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The cartographic landscape analysis of Lake Doshne employs geographic landscape methods, GIS cartographic modeling, and geo-ecological analysis. This study includes hydrochemical analysis of the lake’s water mass, focusing on saline blocks, tropho-saprobiological indicators, and specific toxic action indicators. Three geological sections of anthropogenic and pre-Quaternary complexes, along with a geological–lithological transverse profile of the lake basin, were developed. Additionally, a geographical landscape model of the lake’s natural aquatic complex was presented, distinguishing littoral–sublittoral and profundal aquatic sub-tracts and five types of aquafacies with landscape metric assessments. This approach enables a comprehensive analysis and the creation of cartographic models that can serve as a basis for lake cadastre and optimization of the ecological and landscape conditions in local territories.

Adopting an Emotional Style by the classroom teacher implies the emotional maturity of the personality expressed in emotional skills: awareness of emotional states, emotional balance and discipline, expression of feelings reflected in a style of conduct. The difference between other teaching styles and the emotional one comes from the focus on individual roles. The education of students is directly dependent on teachers, mentors, tutors or coaches, who have a strong influence in their educational journey and a well-defined role in their lives.

The solution provided by information and communication technology to the educational challenges that the education system has faced as a result of the pandemic situation due to the COVID-19 virus has been generally agreed upon and accepted on a planetary scale by the entire academic community. For an important period of time (approximately 1.5 years), the didactic activity took place mainly asynchronously. The implications of this fact on academic performances, the quality of the didactic act, and the well-being of students are addressed in many studies in order to find out answers considered as predictions of future instructive-educational actions. The present study is also included in the same dimension. The results recorded or highlighted the fact that learning in the online system presents both advantages (maximizing the use of time due to the elimination of losses due to travel, domestic comfort, and the exclusive decision to interact) and disadvantages (deficient feedback, investment of intellectual effort to obtain a positive relational agreement); motivation was slightly higher, assessment anxiety and learning efficiency were lower, while comfort and satisfaction with learning did not register significant changes. The preference that students emphasized for the way the didactic activity should be carried out aims at an alternation of synchronous and asynchronous activities in the mixed system, doubled by learning in the online system.

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) represents the increase of the diameter of the aorta by more than 50% in the absence of surgical or endovascular intervention. The risk of rupture and, therefore, mortality is increased significantly in AAA. The role of the mechanical characteristics of the AAA wall is poorly studied.

Logging causes the fragmentation of areas with direct implications for hydrological processes, landslides, or habitats. The assessment of this fragmentation process plays an important role in the planning of future logging, reconstruction, and protection measures for the whole ecosystem. The methodology used includes imaging techniques applying two fractal indices: the Fractal Fragmentation Index (FFI) and the Fractal Fragmentation and Disorder Index (FFDI). The results showed the annual evolution and disposition of deforested areas. Only 3% of deforestation resulted in the fragmentation and splitting of forest plots. The remaining 97% resulted in the reduction of existing compact stands without fragmentation. The method has many advantages in quantifying the spatial evolution of forests, estimating the capture of carbon emissions and establishing sustainability of bird and animal habitats. The analysis took place in the Eastern Carpathians, in Romania, in the time period of 2001–2022.

BackgroundPromoting wellness as a predictor of sustainable development empowers schools to model healthy behavior. The multiple interactions in real and virtual environments that today's youth are subjected to force schools to explore effective educational strategies to provide a quality education for students and their families.PurposeThis study examines the relationship between academic procrastination, assessment anxiety, subjective wellbeing, and academic performance.MethodsA convenience sample of 322 undergraduate students () was used, and questionnaires were administered to students measuring academic procrastination, cognitive test anxiety, and subjective wellbeing. For the same target group, the level of academic performance was identified using personal reports. The questionnaires were administered between May and June 2023 in an online format. For the data analysis, we applied correlational analysis and path analysis using.ResultsBoth test anxiety and academic procrastination negatively correlate with performance and subjective wellbeing, leading to decreased performance and subjective wellbeing. Procrastination correlates positively with test anxiety. Cognitive test anxiety partially mediated the relationship between academic procrastination and subjective wellbeing and fully mediated the relationship between academic procrastination and academic performance. Thus, high procrastination leads to decreased performance and subjective wellbeing both directly and indirectly through increased test anxiety, leading to decreased performance and subjective wellbeing.Significance/discussionsAs a result of theoretical and practical investigations, it emerges that joint action of educational actors is required in the generation of effective educational strategies for the prevention and control of procrastination and evaluation anxiety, given the fact that both a high level of procrastination as well as assessment anxiety led to the decrease of students' wellbeing, to the registration of low academic performances. In the long term, disruptive behavior (procrastination and anxious behavior) could generate low social and professional performance, which is a research question for a future longitudinal study.

In the context of our rapidly evolving word, where pressing issues like anthropogenic climate change and accelerating urbanization demand innovative solutions, a critical evaluation of the potential and impact of digital technologies is necessary. Climate-neutral governance entails the implementation of governmental instruments and tools designed and used to harmonize short-term policy actions with a long-term vision of achieving a climate-neutral state. This fact aims to facilitate evidence-based decision-making, foster inter-sectoral coordination, enhance transparency, and cultivate public legitimacy for climate mitigation and adaptation measures. This paper presents a focused analysis of SmartCities projects and their implementation across diverse urban centers and nations. Our objective is to provide a comprehensive overview, highlighting recent advancements in the realm of smart and climate-neutral city governance. Furthermore, we conduct a comprehensive inquiry into Romania's legislative framework, encompassing the regulations and strategies pertaining to energy, climate change, and urban development. This analysis is complemented by an exploration of the evolving perspectives and legislative proposals that are likely to shape the future course of action in these domains.

Aim of the study The aim of this study was to evaluate the exact patient-specific values of the Bennett angle in a real-life setting, in a large group of patients, in order to compare the values obtained with an accurate measuring device to the average values used in dental practice. Material and methods We have performed a cross-sectional study to measure the Bennett angle in consecutive Romanian patients requiring prosthetic treatments, using a digital condylograph (KaVo ARCUSDigma). Results The study group included a total number of 140 patients, of which 40 (28.6%) were males. The median age was 42 years old (IQR: 36.3, 51 years) The median Bennett angle value was 6.7 degrees (IQR: 4.0, 12.5 degrees; range: 0, 30 degrees) overall, calculated from a total of 242 valid measurements. Bennett angle values were not statistically significantly associated with patient age (rs=0.117, p=0.291) or skeletal class (p=0.314) Conclusions The data generated from the current study highlight the importance of measuring the Bennett angle in each patient requiring extensive prosthetic rehabilitation, as patient specific measurements can be very different from the average values described in literature.

For students with intelectual disabilities, inclusion, seen as a process, is the most effective way to combat discriminatory attitudes towards this category of students, a proces that will help them become independent adults in the future. Also, inclusion among students with intellectual disability in a class in ordinary education is the best proof that education is accessible but also equal for each student, regardless of the particularities of its psycho-physical development. In order for these students to have access to a quality education, the class teacher must design a personalized intervention plan for each subject, but also some strategies to improve the inclusion process. Our paper contains a personalized intervention plan (P.I.P.) in the disciplines of Communication in Romanian and Mathematics and Environmental Exploration for a student with moderate intellectual disability in the first grade who is studying in mass education. Our personalized intervention plan also meets learning needs, pursues and promotes methods and strategies to improve the school inclusion process for the student with moderate intellectual disability.

Centering on the student in the context of the instructional-educational action is achieved by generating both interactive/collaborative and differentiated/individualized learning situations, all the more so as the appropriate technological resources can be exploited to provide the feedback necessary for adjustment in learning. The present study presents an investigative analysis to decipher the understanding of the concepts of didactic and exploitative individualization, differentiation and interactivity, with the aim of identifying the contribution of differentiation/individualization and interactivity in achieving effective learning. The study revealed a common perception of the concepts of individualization, differentiation and interactivity at the level of teachers for preschool, primary and secondary education. Also, the academic performance of students in pre-university education (preschool, primary and secondary school) was influenced by interactive strategies and learning tasks based on individualization and differentiation to a comparative extent with their contribution to the development of the degree of socialization and positive interaction, of increasing the level social-emotional skills.

The development of the digital competence is a lifelong learning goal, which will remain stable, taking into account the digitization of societies and global economies. In this context and unlike the other European states, in the Romanian curriculum, the digital competence can not be found among the acquisitions of learning at the primary education level. In the absence of some clearly formulated learning objectives, which could be integrated into the development of digital competence, the teaching staff has the option to adapt the learning activities or to propose some new ones, so that the projection of the lessons ensures a teaching approach adequate to the acquisition of digital knowledge and skills. This paper highlights the possibilities of developing the specific competences of the objects in the current education framework plan for primary education, in a prototype approach to support the premise of their integration in the development of digital competence.

The Metaverse concept describes a virtual collective space where users engage with simulated or computer-generated environments, enabled by cutting-edge technologies such as Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), Blockchain, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and 5G Networks. This convergence allows the creation of complex virtual worlds, enhances user interactions, enables dynamic environments, facilitates seamless integration across platforms, and ensures scalability and persistence, alongside several privacy, security, ethical and legal challenges to be considered. The constant advancement of these technologies is pivotal in shaping a future where the line between physical and virtual realities blurs, unlocking limitless possibilities in realms such as communication, entertainment, education, and business. This leads to novel opportunities for exploration and user engagement. This paper aims to present an overview of the leading technologies driving the transition from the current Internet to the Metaverse, enabling users to interact naturally and intuitively with digital objects and environments. The study explores well-established interactive simulation technologies like virtual reality and augmented reality, along with emerging technologies like somato-sensory interfaces, holographic imaging, and brain-computer interaction interfaces. Emphasizing their potential, the paper demonstrates how these technologies can offer users unparalleled levels of involvement in interactive activities spanning gaming, socializing, education, and business.

In vascular reconstruction in arterial trauma, ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm or ruptured aneurysmal arteriovenous fistula, the challenge no longer lies in the surgical procedure itself, but rather the prevention of intimal hyperplasia, thrombosis and aneurysm formation, in parallel with extending as long as possible the patency of the grafts.

Cardiovascular disease and periodontal disease are two distinct conditions that have been found to be linked through various research studies. Periodontal disease is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the supporting structures of the teeth, including the gums, periodontal ligament, and jawbone. It is primarily caused by the accumulation of dental plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth. If left untreated, periodontal disease can lead to gum inflammation, gum recession, tooth loss, and even systemic health problems. Several mechanisms have been proposed to explain the potential link between periodontal disease and cardiovascular disease. Maintaining good oral hygiene and preventing or treating periodontal disease is important for overall health

Digital transformation is a critical process given its correlation with innovation, new competitive advantages and ultimately with a superior business performance. However, digital transformation in SMEs is less investigated and only a small number of rather personal factors – such as owner-manager's gender, age and educational background – were identified to influence the digitalization process. This study investigates the extent to which SMEs have adopted new digital technologies and what other organizational factors are correlated with a higher level of digitalization. Data were collected from 249 organizations through a CATI survey at the beginning of COVID pandemic and were analysed using bivariate statistical methods. The results indicate that less than 2% of SMEs have a strong degree of digitalization, while almost 80% of them have a weak level. Additionally, we identified three factors which influence the degree of digitalization, namely: industry, company’s age and type of product sold. Thus, professional services industry has a high degree of digitalization, while retail has the lowest one. Older companies and those which provide mostly services have recorded a higher level, while startups and enterprises which offer physical goods are the least digitized. Surprisingly, there is no correlation between the size of the firm or its organizational structure (traditional, fluid or mixed) and the degree of adoption of digital technologies. Although the digitalization is relatively weak, the pandemic was an accelerator of digital transformation that has forced companies to test and implement new business models.

One of the leading causes of death worldwide is represented by the respiratory diseases, which include disorders such as pneumonia, occupational lung diseases, asthma, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Recent published data indicate that, in the European Union in 2017, the disorders of the respiratory system were responsible for almost 8% of all deaths [1]. Pulmonary infections could be caused by the oral colonization of possible respiratory pathogens, a process that can be promoted by the specific bacterial flora of the oral cavity or by periodontal diseases.

It is well known that algogenic tissue substances (bradykinin, prostaglandins, histamine, serotonin, Substance P) are found in tissues under normal conditions in very small quantities. Cellular, vascular and nerve fiber aggression, especially inflammatory, but also mechanical -traumatic or ischemic of the oro-maxillary tissues causes the concentration of these algogenic factors to increase, inducing the stimulation of algo-conductive nerve pathways. Their presence in large quantities generates the appearance of violent pain sometimes, either through the irritating action they have on the peripheral endings, or through compression edema due to vasodilation and vascular hyperpermeabilization following tissue irritation or aggression. Current review whants to present the potential biomarkers involved in oro-facial pain by analyzing various biofluids different molecular markers who can used to identify the risk factors and predicting the progression and outcomes of painful oro-facial conditions.

Asthma, a prevalent chronic respiratory condition affecting millions of children globally, presents a significant health challenge. This review critically examines the developmental pathways of asthma in children, focusing on genetic, environmental, and early-life determinants. Specifically, we explore the impact of prenatal and postnatal factors such as maternal smoking, nutrition, respiratory infections, and allergen exposure on asthma development. Our analysis highlights the intricate interplay of these influences and their contribution to childhood asthma. Moreover, we emphasize targeted strategies and interventions to mitigate its burden, including genetic counseling for at-risk families, environmental modifications to reduce triggers, and early-life immunomodulation. By delving into these preventive measures and interventions, our review aims to provide actionable insights for healthcare professionals in developing tailored strategies to address the complexities of childhood asthma. In summary, this article offers a detailed examination of asthma development in children, aiming to enhance understanding and inform efforts to reduce its burden through targeted interventions.

Abstract Historical texts incorporate important characteristics that need to be assessed including genre, text structure and content. Often overlooked are characteristics of handwritten manuscripts commonly divided into legibility, readability and aesthetics. To determine the scientific feasibility of classification of handwritten texts an objective approach is developed to describe twenty handwritten pages of an 1819 Greek manuscript, that refers to the initiation to the Greek secret “friendly society” (Philike Hetaereia) organization, established as part of the Greek independence against the Ottoman Turks. It is investigated through a fractal and RGB image analysis approach. Fractal Minkowski Dimension was applied on the handwritten text and the RGB color analysis on the ink and paper and both were used as a non-invasive manner and revealed interesting results. The novel RGB image analysis and the fractal analysis of the manuscript identified respectively, five iron gall inks and four scribes from the ink content and handwritten styles, of the compact five lines text and whole text pages. The novel approach was verified with another old manuscript of known ink pigments, as well as with thirteen known handwritten texts of that period and four prints representing modern and similar period texts substantiating the findings of the novel methods.

Considering that, unlike bone tissue, teeth do not change their composition to a small extent after they have been definitively formed, special attention regarding the relationship between nutritional factors and dental development must be directed to the children. The primary dentition begins to develop after two months of intrauterine life, and the permanent dentition a few months before birth. Important nutritional deficiencies during pregnancy can induce malformations in the child and susceptibility to dental caries. In turn, children with chronic nutritional imbalances (deficiencies or excesses in some nutrients) may present with late tooth eruptions, compromising the integrity of the teeth and increasing the frequency of caries.

Sistemul de management al calității poate fi definit ca un ansamblu de acțiuni și măsuri planificate referitoare la calitatea care garantează că produsul realizat îndeplinește condițiile de calitate prescrise de o documentație elaborată în conformitate cu standardele europene [EN] sau internaționale (ISO). În cadrul Instituției Medico Sanitare Publice Spitalul Clinic Municipal ,,Gheorghe Paladi”, începând cu anul 2008, a fost creat Consiliul Calităţii, care este un organ colectiv de lucru prin care se urmărește să se reducă sau să elimine non-conformitățile existente depistate şi ameliorării calității serviciilor prestate. Managementului calității, de rând cu managementul resurselor umane, financiar şi strategic, reprezintă o parte inte- grantă a managementului general al spitalului şi este o componentă definitorie a politicii instituționale şi a strategiei de dezvoltare, ca furnizor de servicii medicale. Consiliul calității s-a manifestat ca o structură importantă în cadrul spitalului, având la baza activității sale principii de autonomie, autocontrol, evaluarea activității subdiviziunilor instituţiei, aplicând principiul de audit intern cu dreptul de a da recomandări în scopul sporirii nivelului calităţii serviciilor medicale prestate. În condițiile actuale de creștere a concurenței între instituțiile medico-sanitare, Spitalul Clinic Municipal ,,Gheorghe Paladi” este motivat să participe activ la aplicarea prevederilor şi regulamentelor privind asigurarea calităţii, să elaboreze şi să susțină procesele de îmbunătățire continuă a calităţii în instituţie.

Forests around the world, vital for ecological, economic, and social functions, are facing increasing threats such as deforestation and habitat fragmentation. This study introduces “succolarity” to analyse forest connectivity and fragmentation directionally in the Romanian Carpathians from 2000 to 2021. Besides traditional indices such as the fractal fragmentation index (FFI), the fractal fragmentation and disorder index (FFDI), the local connected fractal dimension (LCFD), and succolarity, two novel indices are proposed: potential succolarity and delta (Δ) succolarity, which provide nuanced insights into environmental changes and human interventions in forests worldwide. The succolarity tests showed invariance at the image scale and sensitivity to the obstacles in different image scenarios. The combined analysis of succolarity and fractal indices reveals dynamic patterns of connectivity, fragmentation, and spatial disturbance. The directional insights of succolarity highlight and enhance understanding of deforestation patterns. The FFI and FFDI show different levels of fragmentation across mountain groups, while the LCFD details local connectivity. The adaptability of the method makes it globally applicable, supporting biodiversity conservation and landscape management. In conclusion, the integration of succolarity and traditional fractal indices provides a robust methodology for the comprehensive analysis of forest fragmentation. This advancement not only supports the sustainable management of the Romanian Carpathians but also represents a versatile approach applicable to ecosystems worldwide, ensuring the long-term resilience of forested regions.

Patient testing is a mandatory step in preparing for implant surgery and the number of laboratory investigations depends on the patient’s health. A thorough history will identify the presence of possible conditions that will require a certain package of laboratory tests. Additional tests and analyzes are prescribed if the patient has chronic pathologies (cardiovascular, endocrine, hematological, lung and digestive diseases, osteoporosis, allergic diseases). Investigations help to identify absolute or relative contraindications, to draw up a treatment plan in the stage of preparation for the dental implant therapy.

Anestezia pacienților cu patologie laringiană, ce necesită tratament chirurgical specializat, prezintă o veritabilă provocare. Căile respiratorii, frecvent afectate, sunt împărțite între anesteziolog și otorinolaringolog. Introducerea, în 1970, a unei ventilaţii cu jet intermitent de oxigen sub presiune – ventilaţie cu jet de înaltă frecvenţă, a oferit o nouă modalitate de asigurare a ventilaţiei pulmonare în cursul anesteziei, excluzând dezavantajele neuroleptanalgeziei cu intubaţie traheală. Prin ventilația cu jet de înaltă frecvență se livrează volume curente mici (1-2 ml/kg), printr-un jet de înaltă presiune, la frecvențe suprafiziologice (1-10 Hz), urmate de expirație spontană. În clinica ORL a IMSP SCR “T.Moșneaga” de mai mulți ani se practică anestezia prin jet-ventilare de înaltă frecvență, prin abord supraglotic, care reprezintă opțiunea de elecție în cazul pacienților cu obstrucție laringiană severă, prezența leziunilor laringiene în regiunea posterioară a glotei, mare majoritate a pacienților fiind pacienții cu papilomatoză laringiană recidivantă. Acesată metodă ne scutește de complicațiile grave intraoperatorii, cum ar fi aprinderea sondei de intubație, des întîlnită în practica ORL. Pînă la ora actuală, metoda a fost utilizată cu succes, fără a se raporta careva complicații.

Saliva is a very attractive biological fluid in terms of the diagnosis of numerous conditions for several reasons: saliva collection is usually economical, safe, easy and can be performed without the help of medical personnel (it allows sampling at home); it is considered a non-invasive process by patients because it does not cause any pain and can be easily collected for patients in the pediatric age range. Recent proteomic platforms have analyzed the human salivary proteome, which characterizes approximately 3000 differentially expressed proteins and peptides, many of them of microbiological origin. A careful evaluation of this huge amount of data achievable to date will allow, in the near future, the personalization of therapeutic interventions by evaluating thousands of parameters. Today, proteomic technologies are extremely complex, expensive and of limited accessibility.

Since many years ago a lot of studies conclude that the components of the human body are closely interdependent; as a result, disease conditions in some organs or components can influence the development of disease in other body locations. The effect of oral health upon health in general has been investigated for decades by many epidemiological studies. That is why, there appears to be a clear relationship between deficient oral health and different systemic disorders such as cardiovascular disease and metabolic syndrome. The precise relationship between them is the subject of ongoing research, and a variety of theories have been proposed, though most of them postulate the mediation of an inflammatory response. This association between the oral cavity diet and endothelial function in general requires further study, and health professionals should mark the importance of adopting measures destined to promote correct oral health.

This paper proposes a vertical analysis of the evolution of the TPLF (third party litigation funding) procedure in continental law. The research begins by presenting brief considerations on the institution of TPLF, as well as its applicability in Europe. Subsequently, the soft law and hard law rules of de lege lata in the European Union are presented. It is also intended to outline a future "architecture" of the TPLF, from the perspective of a proposed European directive in this field. In this respect, the legal forms corresponding to the functions of a financing company are drawn up, as well as the expectations of the lawyers from the new regulation.

Introduction. Rhinoseptoplasty is considered the most challenging operation because many techniques have to be taken into consideration to achieve an optimal aesthetic and functional results. Rhinoseptoplasty techniques have been perfected over time, following two main surgical approaches: structural rhinoplasty (resection/ reconstruction) and conservative (preservation rhinoplasty). Methods. The authors present the risks and complications in a comparative study of 100 cases with patients in primary rhinoseptoplastyplasty performed between 2019-2021: 50 cases in Structural Rhinoplsty and 50 cases in Preservation Rhinoplasty. The study presents two surgical concepts of rhinoplasty regarding the main advantages, disadvantages and indications of each type of rhinoseptoplasty surgery. Results and conclusions. Complications post-rhinoseptoplasty can be considered as perioperative, functional, anatomic (aesthetic) and psyhological. In this study 10 cases (10%) of primary rhinoplasty required revision surgery. The most frequent postoperative deformity is the “pollybeak” when a deep naso-frontal angle, cartilaginous hump and reduced tip projection are present preoperatively. The pollybeak was the indication in 4 cases (40%) of all revision rhinoplasties. Other frequent postoperative deformities are: wide nasal tip, retractions of the columella base and irregularities of the nasal dorsum. These deformities are very often combined and caused by a loss of septal support. Septorhinoplasy is a difficult procedure and the surgeon must have accurate anatomical knowledge and rich clinical experience. The risks for rhinoplasty-complications can be reduced with increasing experience. It is very important to make distinction between complication and mistake.

Abstract The complexity in the styles of 1200 Byzantine icons painted between 13th and 16th from Greece, Russia and Romania was investigated through the Kolmogorov algorithmic information theory. The aim was to identify specific quantitative patterns which define the key characteristics of the three different painting schools. Our novel approach using the artificial surface images generated with Inverse FFT and the Midpoint Displacement (MD) algorithms, was validated by comparison of results with eight fractal and non-fractal indices. From the analyzes performed, normalized Kolmogorov compression complexity (KC) proved to be the best solution because it had the best complexity pattern differentiations, is not sensitive to the image size and the least affected by noise. We conclude that normalized KC methodology does offer capability to differentiate the icons within a School and amongst the three Schools.

Currently, the global population is undergoing a series of important demographic changes, which is manifested especially by the accentuated aging of the population, a process that will generate in the medium- and long-term uncertainties regarding the sustainability of the current social model. The main effect of this demographic decline is the significant increase in public spending on social and health services for the elderly, who are at a much higher risk of age-related health problems requiring long-term care. In this context, research programs such as “Active and Assisted Living” (AAL) have been launched in the European Union with the aim of funding innovative ideas leading to the implementation of new smart solutions for assisted living (AL) based on emerging technologies and clinically validated practices that allow proactive and preventive approaches in maintaining an active and healthy life of the elderly. Such an idea was obtained through the realisation of the vINCI technology platform, whose main purpose is to provide an easy-to-use tool that allows the elderly to optimise their lifestyle to ensure an active longevity by using a technology of personalised, digital, discreet, interconnected, adaptable and intelligent support. This paper provides an overview of the impact of the technologies developed in the vINCI project on a sample of users, analysing the feedback received from them on the satisfaction resulting from the interaction with these technologies. The vINCI mobile application and the associated smart devices were tested, through which the real-time monitoring of the various bio-medical parameters is performed. The results of this analysis conducted under the Romanian pilot will help developers to improve the basic components of the vINCI platform and ultimately create a competitive product in an extremely dynamic market, such as personalised care solutions for the elderly.

The nasal pyramid is an essential structure in the physiognomy of the individual, and the external appearance of the nose is very important in the modern society in which we find ourselves. That is why the anatomical diversity of the nasal pyramids has led to the development of various surgical technique for reshaping the nasal structures. Rhinoseptoplasty has changed considerably in recent decades, from a standardized reduction procedure to a procedure focused on very differentiated problems, reductions, relocations and augmentations of frequently combined tissues. Most surgeons around the world have agreed on a new concept of surgery, that of preserving different structures of the nose given the fact that the principle of preservation is better than that of resection, with a more natural result. Material and method. Review of the two surgical concept of rhinoplasty regarding the main advantages and disadvantages of each type of rhinoseptoplasty surgery. Results and conclusions. Proper patient selection is important for good results. Before surgery, nasal analysis should performed clinically and photographically to determine the necessary corrections. Rhinoplasty is still one of the most challenging procedures in facial plastic surgery. With the right surgical experience and proper surgical techniques the results are most often good and the patients are satisfied.

Background. Voice rehabilitation in patients undergoing total laryngectomy is fundamental for the social reinsertion of the patient. The gold standard to fulfill this objective is the implantation of a voice prosthesis (VP). The main limitation of VP use is the blockage with fluids and deterioration due to biofilm colonization, which leads to frequent replacements. Objectives. The purpose of the study is to identify the microorganisms that develop within the biofilm colonizing the collected VPs surfaces and the implantation situ and to determine whether that biofilm formation is the main reason for deterioration of VP proper function, leading to frequent replacements of VP. Material and methods. In our retrospective observational study we assessed the biofilm composition of 41 dysfunctional VP from 10 laryngectomized patients by collecting samples for microbiologic tests. The morphology of the biofilm was also observed using scanning electron microscopy, a precious tool for providing an extensive understanding of the microbial colonizing the behavior of the medical device. Outcomes. The microbiologic evaluation revealed a complex, mixed bacterial-fungal multispecies composition and the average time of exploitation for each VP was established. Deterioration of the silicone properties contributes to a large extent to the malfunction of VP. Conclusions. Further research in the medical engineering field and innovative approaches are expected to improve the device lifespan, by proving anti-biofilm properties and thus enhancing the quality of life for laryngectomized patients.

In the unfortunate event of a fire, within the context of the evolution of façade fires, with a specific focus on the utilization of polystyrene thermal insulation (external thermal insulation composite system façades—ETICS façades), this study delves into the investigation of fires ignited by containers containing plastic bottles. Through an examination of the fluctuating temperatures within the affected room and its adjacent areas, as well as an assessment of the fire’s impact on polystyrene thermal insulation, this paper underscores the significance of incorporating non-combustible barriers into the building’s thermal insulation system. The tests conducted revealed that the temperature inside the room reached a maximum of 1100 °C, subsequently decreasing to 800 °C at a height of 2.5 m and approximately 400 °C at a height of 5 m. For this research, two 1100-L containers of household waste were employed, each weighing 45.5 kg and possessing a gross calorific value of 46.97 MJ/kg, with 10.7 kg of PET bottles inside, characterized by a higher calorific value of 23.90 MJ/kg as the source of the fire. Heat release rate highest values were obtained between 11 and 17 min, with a maximum value of 4919 kW. Thus, even in the absence of specific legislation, this study emphasizes the imperative need to establish safety distances for the storage of household waste away from the building’s façade to mitigate the risk of fire propagation, particularly in relation to materials such as polystyrene thermal insulation. Furthermore, in certain situations, extensive fire experiments on a grand scale, like the one undertaken in this research, hold a crucial position in confirming numerical findings for global researchers. This process assures the reliability and real-world usefulness of fire safety studies through the experimental outcomes presented in this investigation.

Aim: The semisynthetic derivatives MePip-SF5 and isogarcinol, which are aligned with the natural products curcumin and garcinol, were tested for their antitumor effects in a preclinical model of pulmonary melanoma metastasis. Methods and results: MePip-SF5 was almost five times more effective in inhibiting B16F10 melanoma cell proliferation than its original substance of curcumin (IC50 MePip-SF5 2.8 vs. 13.8 µM). Similarly, the melanoma cytotoxicity of isogarcinol was increased by 40% compared to garcinol (IC50 3.1 vs. 2.1 µM). The in vivo toxicity of both drugs was assessed in healthy C57BL/6 mice challenged with escalating doses. Isogarcinol induced toxicity above a dose of 15 mg/kg, while MePip-SF5 showed no in vivo toxicity up to 60 mg/kg. Both drugs were tested in murine pulmonary metastatic melanoma. C57BL/6 mice (n = 10) received 500,000 B16F10 melanoma cells intravenously. After intraperitoneal injection of MePip-SF5 (60 mg/kg) or isorgarcinol (15 mg/kg) at days 8, 11 and 14 and sacrifice at day 16, the MePip-SF5-treated mice showed a significantly (p < 0.05) lower pulmonary macroscopic and microscopic tumor load than the vehicle-treated controls, whereas isogarcinol was ineffective. The pulmonary RNA levels of the mitosis marker Bub1 and the inflammatory markers TNFα and Ccl3 were significantly (p < 0.05) reduced in the MePip-SF5-treated mice. Both drugs were well tolerated, as shown by an organ inspection and normal liver- and kidney-related serum parameters. Conclusions: The novel curcuminoid MePip-SF5 showed a convincing antimetastatic effect and a lack of systemic toxicity in a relevant preclinical model of metastasized melanoma.

The vulnerable populations of bison had gone through a drastic reduction in population size, have undergone a very high level of inbreeding and have been through severe bottlenecks. Using a panel of Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (GGP Bovine 50K SNP arrays, Neogen) developed across the entire bovine (Bos taurus) genome, we have carried out a genome variability screening on a bison (Bison bison) population in Romania. Eight males were included in the analysis. As part of SNP quality control filtering, one individual with a call rate below 80% was removed from the study. From a total of 47,843 SNPs only 4474 were polymorphic (9.35% from the total) and 7 individuals (out of a total of 8) were left after PLINK's quality control filtering. The total call rate of genotyped samples was 90.11% for the filtered dataset. A secondary PLINK run was performed on the 4474 filtered SNPs to find the ones whose HWE p-value fell below 0.05 and 100 markers were highlighted in this way. The results showed a larger number of polymorphic SNPs compared with previous studies from the literature. In addition, the data obtained using the GGP Bovine 50K SNP arrays may facilitate the design of breeding strategies that can be applied for decreasing unwanted inbreeding effects in the vulnerable bison populations.

Background and Objectives: Saliva is of utmost importance for maintaining oral health. Management of saliva flow rate deficiency recently includes salivary neuro-electrostimulation. The aim of this paper is to present a new model of salivary pacemaker—the MICROSAL device (MD), an intelligent, miniaturized, and implant-supported oral device used for salivary stimulation. Materials and Methods: This report presents the development, calibration, and first clinical tests which involved the MD. The novel features of this device are the pH sensor and the fact that it communicates with the patient’s smartphone, where oral wetness and pH are graphically exposed. Saliva samples were taken before and after the MD was used on a 68-year-old patient suffering from post-irradiation xerostomia, and albumin and total protein were analyzed. Results: The device uses up to 3 V and time intervals of 2 s seconds for stimulation. The total volume of all saliva samples collected during the clinical trial was almost seven times higher after the device was used. Albumin decreased from a maximum of 0.15 g/dL to 0.04 g/dL, and total proteins from 0.65 g/dL to 0.21 g/dL, after salivary stimulation. Conclusions: The MD increased saliva secretion of the patient, and we are confident it will be a good solution for future management of salivary gland hypofunction.

Ensuring safe food for a growing population is a challenge for agriculture. The current systems of intensive agriculture are based on important allocations of factors of production per unit area, like chemical fertilizers and pesticides, allocated in order to stimulate production. In doing so, food security is ensured, by obtaining high yields per hectare, but chemical residues may remain in food and human health is jeopardised. The aim of this research is to identify the role of digitalization in agriculture in balancing the binomial food security-organic farming, starting from the premise that smart agriculture has a significantly lower negative impact on the environment and human health compared to the conventional agricultural system. The relevance of research lies in raising awareness of the importance of smart agriculture in providing agricultural products obtained in accordance with the principles of sustainable development and moreover integrating it into policies and actions at all levels: individual, local, national and global.

Complex systems such as the global climate, biological organisms, civilisation, technical or social networks exhibit diverse behaviours at various temporal and spatial scales, often characterized by nonlinearity, feedback loops, and emergence. These systems can be characterized by physical quantities such as entropy, information, chaoticity or fractality rather than classical quantities such as time, velocity, energy or temperature. The drawback of these complexity quantities is that their definitions are not always mathematically exact and computational algorithms provide estimates rather than exact values. Typically, evaluations can be cumbersome, necessitating specialized tools. We are therefore introducing ComsystanJ, a novel and user-friendly software suite, providing a comprehensive set of plugins for complex systems analysis, without the need for prior programming knowledge. It is platform independent, end-user friendly and extensible. ComsystanJ combines already known algorithms and newer methods for generalizable analysis of 1D signals, 2D images and 3D volume data including the generation of data sets such as signals and images for testing purposes. It is based on the framework of the open-source image processing software Fiji and ImageJ2. ComsystanJ plugins are macro recordable and are maintained as open-source software. ComsystanJ includes effective surrogate analysis in all dimensions to validate the features calculated by the different algorithms. Future enhancements of the project will include the implementation of parallel computing for image stacks and volumes and the integration of artificial intelligence methods to improve feature recognition and parameter calculation.

The current educational paradigm implemented worldwide is the development of competence comprising knowledge, skills, and attitudes. This research aims to investigate the acquisition of procedural knowledge and competencies targeting this type of knowledge through the study of Biology in middle and high schools in Romania. The paper first provides a brief overview of the history and existent usage of the concepts of competence and procedural knowledge. Moreover, it describes the Romanian educational system from a diachronic perspective. Following this, a careful analysis of middle and high school Biology syllabi is conducted. Particularly, development of procedural knowledge and competencies targeting procedural knowledge in these documents is examined critically. The results of this analysis indicate that, even though syllabi mention competence and procedural knowledge, they need more concrete activity guidance and assessment to train them. Finally, an online survey targeting high school ninth-graders and first-year university students is applied and analyzed. The survey assesses the implementation of instruction based on procedural knowledge. The results reveal the need for more logistics (laboratories and instruments) provision in schools and for carrying out practical activities. A need for reconsidering Biology syllabi, educational investment, and teacher preparation is necessary to succeed in developing procedural knowledge and competencies associated with this, through the study of Biology.

For the vast majority of the population, natural medicine still continues to show its dominant role in the health system and this is especially true in developing countries. The foundations of modern medicine lie in antiquity, in the discoveries of ancient human civilizations regarding the plant world. Flavonoids, an important group of natural substances with variable structures, belong to a class of secondary metabolites of plants and are widely found in fruits, vegetables, grains, roots, stems, flowers, tea and wine. These natural sources are well known for their beneficial effects on health and efforts are currently being made to isolate and extract plant compounds. Quercetin, a flavonoid found in fruits and vegetables, has unique biological properties that can improve mental / physical performance. These properties are formed based on the potential benefits for general health and disease resistance, including anti-carcinogens, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antioxidant and psychostimulant activities, as well as the ability to inhibit lipid peroxidation, platelet aggregation and capillary permeability and mitochondrial stimulation of biogenesis.

This paper tackles the physicochemical characterization of spent coffee grounds resulting from a blend of six types of coffee (Arabica and Robusta) used in different proportions in a professional DeLonghi coffee machine. Information was collected on their particle size distribution, morphological characteristics, composition and energy value. Since it is impossible to make pellets and briquettes out of pure spent coffee grounds that would meet sustainability standards, our paper suggests another use for coffee grounds as firelighters. Several firelighters containing agricultural waste, additives and 100% Arabica spent coffee grounds have been designed and manufactured. The firelighters thus obtained were first analyzed by microscale combustion calorimetry (MCC), a standard test method used to determine the flammability characteristics of materials. The firelighters obtained have high values of heat release capacity, and of the total flow of heat released, as well. The firelight containing coffee grounds also has a lower percentage of residue and a longer duration of the combustion process, which are important aspects considering the practical applications concerned.

Preparatele antibacteriene constituie unele din cele mai frecvente grupe de medicamente utilizate în instituțiile curativece necesită resurse financiare semnificative, îndeosebi în situația creșterii periculoase a rezistenței microbilor la antibiotice.Analiza farmacoeconomică ABC/VEN va permite aprecierea raționalității administrării medicamentelor antibacteriene, redirecționarea resurselor financiare pentru achiziționarea preparatelor efective în contextul datelor despre rezistența bacteriilorîn instituția curativă, evidențierea resurselor suplimentare pentru includerea în formularul farmacoterapeutic a unor antibiotice și chimioterapice sintetice mai eficiente și inofensive. Rezultatele analizei vor contribui la optimizarea utilizării grupelorși preparatelor antibacteriene în secțiile instituției curative și repartizarea rațională în funcție de incidența patologiilor tratate.