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Background and Objectives: Lower extremity amputations (LEAs) represent a significant health problem. The aim of our study was to analyse the type and trends of diabetes-related LEAs in patients hospitalized in one surgical centre in Bucharest between 2018 and 2021. The second aim was to assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the trends of LEAs. Materials and Methods: We performed a retrospective analysis of all lower limb amputations performed between 01 January 2018 and 31 December 2021 in the Department of Surgery, Dr. I. Cantacuzino Clinical Hospital, Bucharest, Romania. We evaluated demographic parameters, type of LEA, the level, the laterality and trends of the amputations, the main aetiologies leading to amputation, and the length of hospitalization. Results: During the study period, 1711 patients underwent an LEA. The mean age was 64.53 ± 9.93 years, 71.6% (n = 1481) being over 60. Men outnumbered women by a ratio of 3.62:1. The most frequent interventions were ray amputations in 41.2% (n = 705) of patients; then, there were amputations of the toe (20.4%, n = 349), transtibial amputations (18.9%, n = 323), transfemoral amputations (10.6%, n = 181), and midfoot amputations (9%, n = 154). Wet gangrene was the most frequent aetiology (40.9%, n = 699). The total number of LEAs decreased constantly throughout the analysed period, such that 616 LEAs were performed in 2018 and 323 LEAs in 2021 (p < 0.001). There was a statistically significant increase in the rate of major LEAs in the pandemic vs. pre-pandemic period (37% vs. 24.4%, p < 0.001). Conclusions: In our study, the total number of LEAs decreased throughout the analysed period, but there was an increase in the rate of major LEAs in the pandemic vs. pre-pandemic period. Being over 65 years of age, leucocytosis, sepsis at presentation, and diabetic polyneuropathy were important risk factors for the necessity of LEA in complicated diabetes-related foot disease.

Introduction. Interstitial Cells of Cajal (ICCs) play a critical role in the regulation of gastrointestinal motility and have been implicated in various functional gastrointestinal disorders. Recent research indicates a possible association between ICCs and the tumor risk of Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors (GISTs). This research aims to examine the clinical, histopathological, and biomolecular characteristics of ICCs and their relevance in assessing GIST risk. Materials and Methods. This study examined fourteen GIST patients who underwent surgical intervention at the Surgery Department of Carol Davila Nephrology Hospital in Bucharest. Parameters including age, gender, tumor location/ dimensions were scrutinized. Immunohistochemistry employing markers CD117, DOG-1, and CD34 was employed to ascertain the presence of ICCs and GISTs. Results. The GIST risk stratification revealed distribution with 35.71% very low-risk, 21.42% low-risk, 14.28% intermediate-risk, and 28.57% high-risk categories. Predominantly, 57.14% of cases fell within the very low-risk and low-risk categories. Positive immunoreactivity for CD117 and DOG-1 was noted in 92.86% of patients, while CD34 exhibited positivity in 85.71% of cases. Gastric GISTs manifested heightened marker expression. Notably, immunohistochemistry unveiled robust positivity for CD117, DOG-1, and CD34, illustrating a positive correlation between elevated ICC levels and high-risk GISTs. Conclusions. The findings propose an association between ICC levels and high-risk GISTs, accentuating the diagnostic utility of CD117, DOG-1, and CD34 markers in GIST assessment.

In the era of rapid technological advancements, traditional marketing strategies no longer wield the same effectiveness. The focal point has shifted to social media, a pivotal virtual realm where platforms not only serve as social networks but also as digital advertising spaces utilizing innovative and captivating marketing techniques. Marketers recognize the indispensability of these digital forums, leveraging them to reach a vast audience while optimizing budgetary resources. In addition to conventional marketing, the less highlighted realm of social media intelligence (SOCMINT) plays a crucial role. SOCMINT involves harnessing data collected from social media platforms to gain deeper insights into consumer behavior. This article delves into research conducted among social media users, unveiling the voluntarily shared data and information. It also measures users' awareness of how other entities utilize their publicly displayed information. In this dynamic landscape, the fusion of strategic digital marketing and SOCMINT emerges as a powerful tandem for navigating the evolving realm of consumer engagement.

The role of histone modifications in transcription remains incompletely understood. Here, we examine the relationship between histone modifications and transcription using experimental perturbations combined with sensitive machine-learning tools. Transcription predicted the variation in active histone marks and complex chromatin states, like bivalent promoters, down to single-nucleosome resolution and at an accuracy that rivaled the correspondence between independent ChIP-seq experiments. Blocking transcription rapidly removed two punctate marks, H3K4me3 and H3K27ac, from chromatin indicating that transcription is required for active histone modifications. Transcription was also required for maintenance of H3K27me3, consistent with a role for RNA in recruiting PRC2. A subset of DNase-I-hypersensitive sites were refractory to prediction, precluding models where transcription initiates pervasively at any open chromatin. Our results, in combination with past literature, support a model in which active histone modifications serve a supportive, rather than an essential regulatory, role in transcription.

This work presents the manufacturing by 3D printing in lateral position C, of five samples made of ABS+ material. 3D printing has more and more applications in all industrial fields and is a modern additive manufacturing process. Among the many advantages of using this process are the use of a digital model in the design phase, a very high material efficiency in the execution phase as well as a significant reduction in the costs related to the tools and equipment required. This work is part of a larger study in which tensile specimens are fabricated using three printing positions and three types of filaments. The manufactured samples are intended to be later used for tensile tests.

3D printing is finding more and more applications in the industrial field and represents a modern additive manufacturing process based on a digital model. There are a number of advantages of additive manufacturing through 3D printing compared to classic manufacturing processes such as: material economy, design optimization, the possibility of rapid prototyping, shortening the design and manufacturing cycle, eliminating errors and many others. Because 3D printed elements are more and more often found in various applications, an investigation is required by material categories and printing positions of the mechanical properties and how the respective landmarks behave in terms of displacements and internal stresses. The investigation of the mechanical characteristics, displacements and internal stresses can be done through laboratory tests on samples classically subjected to traction, bending, torsion. In order to reduce the number of mechanical tests, in order to investigate displacements and internal stresses, we must use finite element analysis methods. In the present work, the finite element analysis of some tensile specimens, 3D printed from ABS+ material, in the horizontal position A, will be presented..

In this work, it is proposed to realize by 3D printing, which is an additive manufacturing process using Fused Deposition Modeling - FDM - some samples using PETG type filament. The position in which printing is performed is variant A corresponding to the horizontal position. 3D printing has more and more applications in all industrial fields and is a modern additive manufacturing process. Among the many advantages of using this process are the use of a digital model in the design phase, a very high material efficiency in the execution phase as well as a significant reduction in the costs related to the tools and equipment required. Another advantage that must be taken into account very seriously, in this case of industrial speed, is the time elapsed from the idea to the realization of the prototype. Using 3D printing, it is possible to optimize the design from the design phase, making the finished product with minimal losses. In this context it is important to make a study on the positions of printing the landmarks, in the case of this work of the specimens, to determine the mechanical properties as well as the displacements and internal stresses that occur due to several types of stresses.

This article delves into the realm of eco-design furniture as a pioneering solution for enhancing the sustainability of airport environments, both indoors and outdoors. The primary objective of adopting eco-design principles within airport spaces is to mitigate the adverse environmental effects associated with traditional furniture choices. By prioritizing the utilization of functional, sustainable, and aesthetically pleasing products, this research seeks to contribute to the creation of airport environments that align with contemporary ecological concerns. The study emphasizes a holistic approach that encompasses various facets of eco-design, including manufacturing technologies, material composition, and energy efficiency. Special attention is given to the exclusion of toxic substances from the furniture's composition, ensuring that the end product not only enhances the overall aesthetic appeal of the airport but also remains environmentally friendly throughout its life cycle. Moreover, the research evaluates and proposes strategies to minimize energy consumption during the production phase, thereby further reducing the ecological footprint associated with the furniture

Occupational accidents are a significant occupational health and safety problem in Romania and worldwide. This research examines recent developments and trends in occupational accidents in Romania, assessing the incidence rate of fatal accidents at work in relation to other EU countries. The aim of this research is to identify the main sectors that rank high in employee exposure and to highlight the need for urgent action to reduce incidents and improve workplace safety. It also provides a better understanding of the phenomenon of accidents at work in the Romanian context, including the advocacy of a safer working environment for all employees in the country.

3D printing is finding more and more applications in the industrial field and an investigation is required by material categories and by printing positions of the mechanical properties and how the respective landmarks behave in terms of displacements and internal stresses. In order to reduce the number of mechanical tests, in order to investigate displacements and internal stresses, we can use finite element analysis methods. In the present paper, the analysis with finite elements of some tensile specimens, printed 3D from ABS+ material, in the vertical position B will be presented.

Landfill is one of the world's most prevalent and commonly utilized waste disposal systems. The effectiveness of landfilling is dependent on a technological, economic, and regulatory framework that appears to be insufficient in many nations. There are several areas of geotextile application in landfill covers, each with its own set of needs and concerns for optimal material selection and assessment. This article presents an examination of several landfill covering possibilities

Technology is constantly expanding. Workplaces have undergone drastic changes due to processes of automation, robotisation, working remotely and so on, which has caused some workplace hazards to disappear and be replaced by other hazards. This is also felt in the conduct of occupational health and safety activities, which need to keep up with all these technological changes. Automation of processes, digitisation of information - IoT is at the heart of what is happening in most areas of business. The field of HSE can be streamlined by adopting such best practices as electronic archiving of documents

A contemporary additive manufacturing technology based on a digital model, 3D printing is finding more and more uses in the industrial sector. This procedure, often referred to as fused deposition modelling, has been standardized as fused filament fabrication (FFF). Comparing additive manufacturing using 3D printing to conventional manufacturing methods has a lot of benefits. Compared to conventional production methods, additive manufacturing with 3D printing enables material savings. The mechanical strength of various materials used in additive manufacturing is presented in many studies. The purpose of this work is to outline the procedures required for 3D printing specimens that can be used to assess the mechanical characteristics of the substance polylactic acid (PLA+)

This work presents the manufacturing by 3D printing in lateral position C, of five samples made of PETG material. Polyethylene terephthalate glycol, commonly known as PETG or PET-G, is a thermoplastic polyester that provides significant chemical resistance, durability, and excellent formability for manufacturing. PETG can be easily vacuumed and pressure-formed as well as heat-bent thanks to its low forming temperatures. This makes it exceptionally popular for consumer and commercial applications that involve 3D printing, or other heat-forming manufacturing techniques. Additionally, PETG is well-suited for fabrication techniques like die cutting, routing, and bending.. 3D printing has more and more applications in all industrial fields and is a modern additive manufacturing process. Among the many advantages of using this process are the use of a digital model in the design phase, a very high material efficiency in the execution phase as well as a significant reduction in the costs related to the tools and equipment required. This work is part of a larger study in which tensile specimens are fabricated using three printing positions and three types of filaments. The manufactured samples are intended to be later used for tensile tests.

This paper explores the impact of using Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the photographic design process. In the context of rapidly evolving technology, AI applications have become increasingly prominent in various fields, including the photographic industry. This study examines how advanced machine learning and image processing algorithms can improve and simplify creative processes in photography. The main issues addressed include the use of AI in automatic image selection and editing, automatic identification of relevant subjects and generation of artistic effects. These technologies bring not only efficiency but also an increase in the quality of the final results. The paper also highlights the ethical issues associated with the use of AI in photographic design and the importance of human control in these automated processes. The study draws on current research in AI and photography, examining practical applications of existing technologies and exploring future prospects. The results indicate that the intelligent integration of AI into the photographic design process can bring significant benefits, but it is essential to consider ethical issues and maintain a balance between human creativity and automation.

This six-year multicentre study investigated acute intentional poisoning with substances of abuse in adolescents to identify changes and patterns in substance use. Data from 562 adolescents were collected from three paediatric poison centres in Romania between January 2017 and December 2022. This study analysed the epidemiological and sociodemographic characteristics of the adolescents, including age, gender, place of residence, history of substance abuse, psychiatric history, and history of institutionalised care. The findings revealed that cannabis and new psychoactive substances (NPSs) are the most commonly implicated substances, each with distinct profiles among adolescents. Cannabis was involved in 46.1% of cases, with a significant association with urban residency. NPSs were identified as the second most prevalent substance, accounting for 39.3% of cases. These were more prevalent in rural areas and among patients with psychiatric disorders. Cannabis and NPSs were also the most commonly implicated substances in acute intentional poisoning cases with substances of abuse. These substances have distinct profiles among adolescents, including age, gender, residency area, history of substance abuse, psychiatric history, and institutional care. These findings underscore the necessity of targeted public health interventions and integrated care approaches to address substance use and related mental health issues in adolescents.

This research evaluates the feasibility of using eucalyptus oil blended with conventional diesel fuel in diesel engines. Eucalyptus globulus is one of the main tree species cultivated for paper pulp in western European countries such as Portugal, and eucalyptus oil is one of the byproducts that so far has not been sufficiently evaluated as a biofuel. This study assesses the impact of using this additive on engine performance parameters and emissions as a means to contribute to reducing fossil fuel consumption and pollutant and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The analysis revealed that the addition of eucalyptus oil had a positive effect on torque, a critical performance parameter, with biofuel blends showing consistent torque increases at lower engine speeds. However, torque tended to decrease towards the higher range of engine speed for eucalyptus oil–diesel blends. Several blends showed lower brake specific fuel consumption compared to regular diesel at high engine loads and low engine speeds. Brake thermal efficiency did not vary substantially at lower engine speeds and loads but decreased at higher speeds and loads. Pollutant emissions, particularly unburned hydrocarbons and nitrogen oxides, were influenced by fuel composition, with biofuel blends showing both increases and decreases compared to diesel. It is noteworthy that eucalyptus oil blends exhibited up to a 60% reduction in smoke opacity under specific operating conditions at low speed and high load for 10% incorporation (10EU90D), suggesting that in addition to the already positive effects of cutting down fossil CO2 emissions in proportion to the substitution of fossil diesel with nearly carbon-neutral eucalyptus oil, more environmental benefits may be expected from the incorporation of this product. Although the present economic viability of using eucalyptus oil as a biofuel is still not guaranteed, the present study seems to reinforce its technical viability. Future prospects for the improvement of oil yield through biotechnology, the economic interest of this product for several countries, and the updating and upscaling industrial processes may allow the viability of this biofuel to remain a possibility in the future

Wastewater monitoring provides essential information about water quality and the degree of contamination. Monitoring these waters helps identify and manage risks to public health, prevent the spread of disease, and protect the environment. Standardizing the appropriate and most accurate methods for the isolation and identification of viruses in wastewater is necessary. This review aims to present the major classes of viruses in wastewater, as well as the methods of concentration, isolation, and identification of viruses in wastewater to assess public health risks and implement corrective measures to prevent and control viral infections. Last but not least, we propose to evaluate the current strategies in wastewater treatment as well as new alternative methods of water disinfection.

The paper presents the results of a systematic review regarding emissions of noxes in the case of welding in shielding gases. For this paper it was used The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) published in 2009. A total of 65 academic papers retrieved from the ScienceDirect Freedom Collection, Elsevier database, Web of Science - Core Collection, Clarivate Analytics, Scopus, SpringerLink Journals databases were identified and analysed. The main objectives of this review were to answer the following questions: (1) What are the major health issues related emissions of noxes in the case of welding in shielding gases? (2) What are the measures of control for the fumes and gases? The search was conducted in January 2023. The results were organized into two major sections. The first include information on major health issues associated with welding noxes. The second contains studies thought to be relevant on measures of prevention and control.

A general trend, manifested at the European and international level, is to promote the use of scientific methods in preventive activity, both in terms of the design of work security measures, and the motivation of employers for the application of these measures. The argument to which any entrepreneur reacts positively is profit. As a result, prevention specialists have tried to demonstrate that efforts to reduce the number of occupational accidents and illnesses ultimately bring financial benefits to the company. The paper presents the classification, prioritization and distribution of prevention and protection measures on the 4 components of the work system: the worker, the workload, the means of production, the work environment. Also, a case study on taking measures for a job is presented.

The problem of mineralization of bone structures has been a subject of research and discussion for a long time due to the influence it has on the functioning of the entire human system. In practice, to improve the concentration of minerals in the bones, there are currently multiple dietary supplements that act on them. However, less research has been done on the chemical composition of teeth and how these mineral concentrations influence their behavior. The present research refers to the way in which a tooth behaves under the action of forces acting on its enamel surface. For this, the finite element method was used, which lends itself very well in this situation where, based on the specialized literature, mechanical properties and forces acting on a tooth were used as input data. Its mechanical properties, such as the modulus of elasticity, have different values for the situation of a normal tooth or a demineralized one. The article thus presents the state of tension and deformation that appears in a tooth in the two situations presented, resulting in interesting conclusions in this sense useful to a practitioner in the field of dentistry

Experimental models of a clinical, pathophysiological context are used to understand molecular mechanisms and develop novel therapies. Previous studies revealed better outcomes for spinal cord injury chronic ethanol-consuming patients. This study evaluated cellular and molecular changes in a model mimicking spinal cord injury (hypoxic stress induced by treatment with deferoxamine or cobalt chloride) in chronic ethanol-consuming patients (ethanol-exposed neural cultures (SK-N-SH)) in order to explain the clinical paradigm of better outcomes for spinal cord injury chronic ethanol-consuming patients. The results show that long-term ethanol exposure has a cytotoxic effect, inducing apoptosis. At 24 h after the induction of hypoxic stress (by deferoxamine or cobalt chloride treatments), reduced ROS in long-term ethanol-exposed SK-N-SH cells was observed, which might be due to an adaptation to stressful conditions. In addition, the HIF-1α protein level was increased after hypoxic treatment of long-term ethanol-exposed cells, inducing fluctuations in its target metabolic enzymes proportionally with treatment intensity. The wound healing assay demonstrated that the cells recovered after stress conditions, showing that the ethanol-exposed cells that passed the acute step had the same proliferation profile as the cells unexposed to ethanol. Deferoxamine-treated cells displayed higher proliferative activity than the control cells in the proliferation–migration assay, emphasizing the neuroprotective effect. Cells have overcome the critical point of the alcohol-induced traumatic impact and adapted to ethanol (a chronic phenomenon), sustaining the regeneration process. However, further experiments are needed to ensure recovery efficiency is more effective in chronic ethanol exposure.

During the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic healthcare workers (HCWs) acquired immunity by vaccination or exposure to multiple variants of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Our study is a comparative analysis between subgroups of HCWs constructed based on the number of SARS-CoV-2 infections, vaccination, and the dominant variant of SARS-CoV-2 in the population. We collected and analyzed data using the χ2 test and density incidence of reinfections in Microsoft Excel for Mac, Version 16.84, and MedCalc®, 22.026. Of the 829 HCWs, 70.1% (581) had only one SARS-CoV-2 infection and 29.9% (248) had two infections. Of the subjects with two infections, 77.4% (192) worked in high-risk departments and 93.2% (231) of the second infections were registered during Omicron dominance. The density incidence of reinfections was higher in HCWs vaccinated with the primary schedule than those vaccinated with the first booster, and the incidence ratio was 2.8 (95% CI: 1.2; 6.7). The probability of reinfection was five times lower (95% CI: 2.9; 9.2) in HCWs vaccinated with the primary schedule if the first infection was acquired during Omicron dominance. The subjects vaccinated with the first booster had a density incidence of reinfection three times lower (95% CI: 1.9; 5.8) if the first infection was during Omicron. The incidence ratio in subgroups constructed based on characteristics such as gender, age group, job category, and department also registered significant differences in density incidence. The history of SARS-CoV-2 infection by variant is important when interpreting and understanding public health data and the results of studies related to vaccine efficacy for hybrid immunity subgroup populations.

This study analyzed the neurological manifestation profiles of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection across pandemic waves in pediatric patients. The study collected data on patients aged between 0 and 18 years, diagnosed with acute SARS-CoV-2 infection, admitted to a pediatric tertiary hospital between 1 March 2020 and 28 February 2023. This study included 1677 patients. Neurological manifestations were noted in 10% (n = 168) of patients with a median age of 3.2 years (interquartile range: 1–11.92). Neurological manifestations were significantly associated with the pandemic waves (p = 0.006) and age groups (p < 0.001). Seizures were noted in 4.2% of cases and reached an increasing frequency over time (p = 0.001), but were not associated with age groups. Febrile seizures accounted for the majority of seizures. Headache was reported in 2.6% of cases and had similar frequencies across the pandemic waves and age groups. Muscular involvement was noted in 2% of cases, reached a decreasing frequency over time (p < 0.001), and showed different frequencies among the age groups. Neurological manifestations of acute SARS-CoV-2 infection exhibit distinct patterns, depending on the pandemic wave and patient age group. The Wuhan and Omicron waves involved the nervous system more often than the other waves.

Botulism is a priority disease worldwide because it has a very severe course of evolution that can lead to death. This paper aims to describe the main epidemiological characteristics of botulism cases confirmed in Romania over 14 years (2007–2020). We performed a retrospective study using the publicly available national surveillance data and reported to the National Institute of Public Health. A total of 325 cases of foodborne botulism were reported in Romania, with no infant or wound botulism. Most of the cases (125, 38.5%) were reported among young adults (25–44 years old), over half (205, 63%) of them living in rural areas. The incriminated food item was identified in 161 cases; in most cases (145, 90%) the food item was prepared in the household. The main food category was represented by meat and meat-based products (94, 68.6%). In almost all cases the identified type was BoNT/B (230/231, 99.5%). Fifteen deaths were recorded, and the case fatality rate was 4.6%. Botulism cases were reported annually in Romania. Surveillance data are essential for implementing control measures and adapting educational campaigns according to existing needs.

Waste heat recovery from exhaust gas is one of the most convenient methods to save energy in internal combustion engine-driven vehicles. This paper aims to investigate a reduction in waste heat from the exhaust gas of an internal combustion engine of a serial Diesel–electric hybrid bus by recovering part of the heat and converting it into useful power with the help of a split-flow supercritical CO2 (sCO2) recompression Brayton cycle. It can recover 17.01 kW of the total 33.47 kW of waste heat contained in exhaust gas from a 151 kW internal combustion engine. The thermal efficiency of the cycle is 38.51%, and the net power of the cycle is 6.55 kW. The variation in the sCO2 temperature at the shutdown of the internal combustion engine is analyzed, and a slow drop followed by a sudden and then a slow drop is observed. After 80 s from stopping the engine, the temperature drops by (23–33)% depending on the tube thickness of the recovery heat exchanger. The performances (net power, thermal efficiency, and waste heat recovery efficiency) of the split-flow sCO2 recompression Brayton cycle are clearly superior to those of the steam Rankine cycle and the organic Rankine cycle (ORC) with cyclopentane as a working fluid.

In Romania, influenza vaccination uptake among healthcare workers decreased over time despite access to the vaccine being constantly improved. The aim of this paper is to provide a comparative analysis of the knowledge and attitudes of Dental Medicine and Medicine students towards recommended vaccinations for healthcare workers, focusing on influenza vaccination. A cross-sectional study was conducted during the entire 2021–2022 academic year. Data were collected using 2 electronic questionnaires which were applied to the students from the Faculty of Medicine (n = 883) and, respectively, the Faculty of Dental Medicine of the Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania. The questionnaires were offered to 1187 students and completed by 911 students (response rate = 77%). Out of these, 85% (n = 778) identified the influenza vaccine as recommended; 35% (n = 321) reported getting an annual influenza vaccination; and 37% (333) reported getting an influenza vaccination in the previous season. Overall, 45% (n = 222) of the respondents who completed the questionnaires from October 2021 to February 2022 reported that they intend to get vaccinated against influenza in the 2021–2022 season and approximately 8% (n = 39) reported that they had already been vaccinated. The multivariable analysis showed that the habit of getting annually vaccinated against influenza as well as the knowledge that influenza vaccine is recommended for all healthcare workers were associated with a higher probability of intending to get vaccinated. The current study emphasizes the need to raise awareness among medical students regarding influenza vaccination and to involve medical education institutions, public health authorities, and healthcare facilities in promoting this vaccination among students since the influenza vaccine uptake rate among medical students included in this study was suboptimal.

Plastics have a wide use in almost all economic areas, their appearance and use has emerged as a necessity to reduce the consumption of natural products and thus decrease the impact on the environment. In the automotive field, a wide range of plastic products are used due to the additional advantage of weight saving and the production rate of large parts, but which in the assembly process requires joint operations with each other respectively with other objects. An important factor in the studied theme was the challenge of combining 2 different PPMA and ABS materials, taking into account the advantages of each one, namely the PMMA polymer plastic material ensuring the transparency property and the ABS polymer plastic material ensuring the strength and stability of the jointed part. The study presents a part used in the automotive industry for which the process of combining the component materials was detailed

. In a few decades, titanium has gone from being used almost exclusively in top-secret aerospace projects to being used in the construction of custom car parts. Thanks to its incredibly high strength-to-weight ratio and excellent corrosion resistance, titanium will be used even more extensively in the future. There are various ways of joining titanium, one of the most used being welding. Titanium generally has good weldability, but welding it poses problems in terms of the danger of atmospheric contamination of the joint, as titanium, along with zirconium, beryllium, hafnium, and several other metals, has a high affinity for atmospheric gases. In this paper, the characteristics of titanium and its alloys will be presented, as well as the main processes for joining them by welding and a brief review of some examples.

In a contemporary globalised world, assuring food security in the conditions of developing a food self-sufficient economic structure represents not only a challenge in terms of the changing agricultural paradigm, but also an important instrument in assuring, in a long-term manner, societal resilience. However, while achieving self-sufficiency in food, China still faces challenges in terms of establishing sustainable food security and transitioning to a zero hunger state. Rapid economic growth and urbanisation have resulted in shifting food consumption patterns from crops towards more nutritious meat and dairy products and higher-qualitative imported foods. In this study, the current state of food security and production and trade in food and agricultural products in China during 2000-2020 have been analysed and an overview of the strategic directions of the domestic sustainable development, food security, and zero hunger policies are highlighted. The main aim of the study is dedicated to identifying the critical shortcomings and gaps in combating hunger and food insecurity in China and proposing policy recommendations regarding improving the stability of the food supply in the country and deigning new possible strategies to achieve it. The results highlight the major trends and shifts of the food security paradigm in the process of developing a food self-sufficient economy.

The literature raises concerns in terms of the psychological functioning of the students. Their well-being can be impaired by some problems they may face, like academic, personal, financial, or social ones. Cognitive theories support the fact that at the origin of the psycho-emotional consequences lies a dysfunctional thinking pattern. It can determine how people perceive events or their attitudes regarding the situations they experience. All these aspects play an important role in mental health. Thus, the first objective of the present study was to identify possible associations between dysfunctional attitudes, irrational beliefs, and perceived stress among students. The second objective was to test whether the relationship between irrational beliefs and dysfunctional attitudes is explained by perceived stress, through a mediation model. In this research, 148 students filled in three psychological scales that measure the following constructs: dysfunctional attitudes, irrational beliefs, and perceived stress. In general, the results emphasized negative and weak associations between attitudes and cognitions (r = -.265, p = .001) and perceived stress and attitudes (r = -.167, p = .043), but a positive relationship between cognition and perceived stress (r = .312, p < .001). Also, the mediation analysis showed that there are misgivings that perceived stress does explain the relationship between irrational cognitions and dysfunctional attitudes. These preliminary findings could be an initial step in the educational environment to improve the beliefs and attitudes assessment among students by targeting them as important elements.

Somatic frameshift mutations in exon 9 of calreticulin (CALR) gene are recognized as disease drivers in primary myelofibrosis (PMF), one of the three classical Philadelphia-negative myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs). Type 1/type 1-like CALR mutations particularly confer a favorable prognostic and survival advantage in PMF patients. We report an unusual case of PMF incidentally diagnosed in a 68-year-old woman known with hepatitis C virus (HCV) cirrhosis who developed a progressive painful splenomegaly, without anomalies in blood cell counts. While harboring a type 1 CALR mutation, the patient underwent a leukemic transformation in less than 1 year from diagnosis, with a lethal outcome. Analysis of paired DNA samples from chronic and leukemic phases by a targeted next-generation sequencing (NGS) panel and single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) microarray revealed that the leukemic clone developed from the CALR-mutated clone through the acquisition of genetic events in the RAS signaling pathway: an increased variant allele frequency of the germline NRAS Y64D mutation present in the chronic phase (via an acquired uniparental disomy of chromosome 1) and gaining NRAS G12D in the blast phase. SNP microarray analysis showed five clinically significant copy number losses at regions 7q22.1, 8q11.1-q11.21, 10p12.1-p11.22, 11p14.1-p11.2, and Xp11.4, revealing a complex karyotype already in the chronic phase. We discuss how additional mutations, detected by NGS, as well as HCV infection and antiviral therapy, might have negatively impacted this type 1 CALR-mutated PMF. We suggest that larger studies are required to determine if more careful monitoring would be needed in MPN patients also carrying HCV and receiving anti-HCV treatment.

The presence of companies on social networks has become, in recent years, a must for attracting and retaining customers. Instagram is one of the most popular social networks, used for promotion and communication campaigns directly from the company and through "influencers". Influencers are those people who are considered role models/landmarks/people of interest by the public, promoting their values and ideas (including companies, products used, customs, etc.). In the online sphere, the more followers you have, the more credibility and importance of opium grows, which is valid for influencers and companies. In this article, we have conducted a marketing experiment to highlight how much the trust offered to companies is based on the number of followers on Instagram.

Human Resource Management (HRM) is a collective term for all formal systems created to help manage employees and other stakeholders within an entity. Human resource management has three main functions: recruiting and compensating employees and assigning work. In the corporate world, the role of HRM is unlikely to change significantly. In this article, we have conducted quantitative research in the form of a questionnaire, and the objectives include: analyzing the opinions of specialists working in the HRM segment, highlighting the best tools that contribute to improving current HR processes and highlighting how which specialists in this field can implement in the recent activity the latest generation tools. Because of the results obtained, it can be highlighted that in Romania, the processes in the HRM area are in a comprehensive development process, that in our country, it is necessary to use policies that have proven to be successful and used. Furthermore, in public and private entities in other states, internet of things technology can be one of the tools that can be used successfully to achieve the new goals of human resource management.

Here the authors show inducible genes and enhancers are regulated mainly by transcriptional burst frequency and that this is coordinated in single cells and individual alleles. Cohesin, which is important for inducible gene expression, is largely dispensable for regulating enhancer burst frequencies; however, it is required for coupling burst frequencies of inducible enhancers and promoters.

Introduction: Pregnant women's experiences and concerns regarding childbirth are complex, necessitating a multidimensional and personalized approach in maternal care. This study explores the psychological and emotional factors influencing pregnant women's decisions regarding their mode of delivery. The results will provide valuable insights for the development of educational and counseling strategies designed to support pregnant women in making informed and conscious decisions about their childbirth. Material and method: This cross-sectional study aimed to develop and validate a questionnaire exploring the psychological dimensions of childbirth. Factor analysis was employed to assess emotional perceptions, perceived medical risks, and the impact of cesarean section on pregnant women. The questionnaire was distributed online via Google Forms, using social networks like Facebook and Instagram to ensure rapid and broad accessibility. The questionnaire was available for seven months, from January to July 2023. Results: McDonald's ω, Cronbach's α, average inter-item correlation, and total item correlations were calculated to assess the consistency of the questionnaire items in measuring the same construct. The three-factor model emerged as the primary structure based on exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses (EFA and CFA). The first profile, centered on the psychological and emotional benefits of vaginal birth, highlights the importance of the natural birth experience for the mother's psychological well-being. The second profile addresses concerns about medical risks and the need for interventions. The third profile focuses on perceptions and concerns related to the intelligence and adaptability of children born by cesarean section and the effects of anesthesia. Conclusions: Each profile reflects different strategies for seeking control and security amid childbirth uncertainties. These include emphasizing the psychological benefits of vaginal birth, addressing medical risks, and focusing on the impact of interventions on child development. Understanding these variables is essential for providing appropriate counseling and psychosocial support, thereby optimizing the birth experience and promoting the health of both mother and child. The integration of multi-factor and single-factor models in the questionnaire analysis serves complementary purposes, providing distinct yet interrelated insights into the instrument's structure and validity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agriculture may hold the key to a sustainable future. By efficiently capturing atmospheric CO2, we can simultaneously produce food, feed, biomass, and biofuels. For more eco-friendly soil processing practices, biofuels can replace diesel in agricultural machinery, significantly reducing the carbon footprint of crop production. Thus, biofuel production can be a sustainable solution for a future with a decreasing carbon footprint. This paper examines the possibility of replacing petroleum-based fuels with 100% biofuels to continue powering heavy-duty vehicles, where the use of electric vehicles is not the optimal solution. This study particularly focused on the operating scenario of heavy-duty engines under medium to high loads, typical of transport or soil processing in agriculture. Diesel was used as a benchmark, and each alternative, such as vegetable oil, methyl ester (B100), and methyl ester–ethanol blends (90B10E, 80B20E, and 70B30E), was tested individually. To find a sustainable fuel substitute, the goal was to identify a biofuel with a kinematic viscosity similar to that of diesel for a comparable spray process. Experimental results showed that an 80% methyl ester and 20% ethanol blend had a kinematic viscosity close to that of diesel. In addition to diesel, this blend resulted in a 48.6% reduction in exhaust gas opacity and a 6.54% lower specific fuel consumption (BSEC). The main aim of the tests was to find a 100% biofuel substitute without modifying the fuel injection systems of existing engines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Candida auris poses a serious threat to infection control and patient care since it can produce invasive infections that have a high fatality rate, has been linked to outbreaks in hospital environments, and is typically resistant to several antifungal medications. Since its first description in 2009, six clades have been described. The emerging fungal pathogen possesses adhesins that allow it to adhere to host tissues and medical devices, can form biofilms, produces various hydrolytic enzymes, employs several strategies to evade host immune responses, and exhibits high genetic diversity, which may contribute to its ability to adapt to different environmental conditions and evade host defenses. C. auris is very resistant to various disinfectants and may be difficult to detect.

Our study describes the frequency and severity of COVID-19 in HCWs and estimates the dynamic risk of COVID-19-related events. We actively surveyed all HCWs from a tertiary infectious disease hospital from 26 February 2020 to 31 May 2023. Of 1220 HCWs, 62.9% (767) had at least one COVID-19 episode. The under 29 years (p = 0.0001) and 40–49 years (p = 0.01) age groups, nurses (p = 0.0001), and high-risk departments (p = 0.037) were characteristics significantly more frequent in HCWs with COVID-19 history. A higher percentage of boosters (53.2%; p < 0.0001) were registered in the uninfected group. The second episode of COVID-19 was significantly milder than the first. Data regarding clinical outcomes from 31 January 2021 to 31 May 2023 were analyzed in a follow-up study to determine the risk of COVID-19-related events. The Cox regression analysis revealed that HCWs with booster shots had a lower risk of COVID-19 across all events, symptomatic events, and moderate to severe events as adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) were: 0.71 (95%CI: 0.54–0.96), 0.23 (95%CI: 0.12–0.46), and 0.17 (95%CI: 0.07–0.43), respectively. Within the vaccinated subgroup, the HCWs with hybrid immunity and booster had aHR for all followed-up events of 0.42 (95%CI: 0.30–0.58), for symptomatic events of 0.52 (95%CI: 0.36–0.74), and 0.15 (95%CI: 0.03–0.66) for moderate to severe events. The risk of COVID-19 clinical events was lower for HCWs with at least one booster than those completely vaccinated.

Introduction: Melanoma, a malignant tumor arising from uncontrolled melanocytic proliferation, commonly found in the skin but capable of affecting extracutaneous sites, ranks fifth among diagnosed oncological entities and is a significant cause of cancer deaths, constituting over 80% of skin cancer mortality. Genetic factors and ultraviolet radiation (UVR) exposure, from both natural and artificial sources, are the primary risk factors. Case Presentation: We reported the case of a 25-year-old female with numerous pigmented nevi and notable changes attributed to extensive indoor tanning sessions. Dermatological examinations and dermoscopic evaluations revealed atypical features in two pigmented nevi, leading to surgical excision. Histopathological and immunohistochemical analyses confirmed a compound nevus in one lesion and superficial spreading melanoma in the other, emphasizing the importance of vigilant follow-up and the correct use of immunohistochemistry. Discussion: Indoor tanning significantly elevates the cutaneous melanoma risk, with initiation before age 35 amplifying the risk by up to 75%, especially in young women. The risk escalates with cumulative sessions, particularly exceeding 480, and individuals undergoing over 30 sessions face a 32% higher risk. UVR induces DNA damage, genetic mutations, and immunosuppression, contributing to oncogenesis. Genetic factors, like the PTCHD2 gene, may influence the tanning dependency. Legislation targeting minors has been enacted globally but only with partial efficacy. Tanning accelerators, though associated with minor side effects, correlate with high-risk behaviors. The case underscores the urgency of addressing indoor tanning risks, emphasizing targeted awareness efforts and legislative improvements. Conclusions: In conclusion, the reported case highlights the increased risk of cutaneous melanoma linked to indoor tanning, particularly among young women and specific sociodemographic groups. Despite legislative measures, challenges persist, suggesting the potential efficacy of online campaigns involving relatable influencers to raise awareness and discourage artificial tanning.

The management of the production processes in an optimal manner involves the usage of knowledge about past jobs as reference for current decisions. During a manufacturing flow in every process step the process engineers could be in situations that request quick decisions based on comparison of different potential manufacturing paths. The Method for Holistic Optimization was developed in order to be used as support for decisions. The method was validated thru different studies. For the mentioned studies there were used artificial and real instances databases. The approach of the optimal management of the manufacturing processes was developed in the current study in order to estimate the consequences of a decision, are used known methods, such as: NN modeling, big data analysis, statistics, etc. In all these cases, the database size plays an essential role in terms of estimation quality. The main purpose of the study is to analyze and validate that the Method for Holistic Optimization is feasible to be used in case a decision-maker uses a reduced database. This can be a significant advantage compared with other methods. The study it is performed using an instance database which was artificially generated in case of a turning process. The obtained results are consistent and promising.

Abstract Development of an artificial cornea can potentially fulfil the demand of donor corneas for transplantation as the number of donors is far less than needed to treat corneal blindness. Collagen-based artificial corneas stand out as a regenerative option, having promising clinical outcomes. Collagen crosslinked with chemical crosslinkers which modify the parent functional groups of collagen. However, crosslinkers are usually cytotoxic, so crosslinkers need to be removed from implants completely before application in humans. In addition, crosslinked products are mechanically weak and susceptible to enzymatic degradation. We developed a crosslinker free supramolecular gelation strategy using pyrene conjugated dipeptide amphiphile (PyKC) consisting of lysine and cysteine; in which collagen molecules are intertwined inside the PyKC network without any functional group modification of the collagen. The newly developed collagen implants (Coll-PyKC) are optically transparent and can effectively block UV light, are mechanically and enzymatically stable, and can be sutured. The Coll-PyKC implants support the growth and function of all corneal cells, trigger anti-inflammatory differentiation while suppressing the pro-inflammatory differentiation of human monocytes. Coll-PyKC implants can restrict human adenovirus propagation. Therefore, this crosslinker-free strategy can be used for the repair, healing, and regeneration of the cornea, and potentially other damaged organs of the body.

The evolution of the indices of the outputs of the production processes in agriculture could be considered proactive markers in understanding the effectiveness of the agricultural policies implementation and the functionality of the European Agricultural Model. The main aim of the research is centered on the analyzing the evolution of the European developments, in agricultural output price indices during 208-2017, from the Romanian perspective. The main findings describe the long-term changes regarding the evolution of the agricultural sector in the analyzed countries.

Background: The evolutions of the inputs price and investment indices of the products in agriculture are not only determinant elements in understanding the fluctuations of the food price and the market instability, specific to the agricultural sector but also affects the agricultural production and traceability. Analyzing the European evolutions of the inputs price indices of agricultural products offer the possibility to understand the main trends and tendencies in the agricultural system by reviling the main trend tenancies during a nine year period long. Purpose: The main aim of the study is to investigate the evolution of input price indices of agricultural products in order to underline the specific patterns, trends and implications of the agricultural policies. In addition, the research pays a special attention to the investigation of the Romanian agricultural policy evolution on the most relevant time frame of economic conformity with the European agricultural model. The descriptive analysis is based on the specific annual datasets of price indices of the means of inputs in agricultural production, and the index of real prices of goods and services for investments in agriculture during 2008 - 2017, reported to 2010 as the baseline year. Findings/conclusions: The analyses confirms that the agricultural sector evolution has generated significant input and investment prince changes and unprecedented trend evolutions that led to the massive changes on the agricultural pattern. We strongly advocate and recommend for promoting a solid capacity and durable agricultural production systems and policies through sustainable and long term investments in order to avoid disruptive tendencies in the agricultural market system. Limitations/future research: The research explore the evolutions of the inputs price and investments indices of the products in the European agriculture only form the descriptive analysis without covering an extensive framework or considering other additional variables which consist the main limitation of this study. In a future research the authors will address and extend the research framework by inserting additional variables and items and propose a large and integrative model of analysys.

Approximately 62–72 million people are infected worldwide with HDV. Patients with chronic hepatitis D (CHD) have a higher risk of developing cirrhosis or hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and an increased mortality rate compared to those with chronic hepatitis B (CHB). The stage of liver fibrosis or the risk of developing HCC can also be estimated by non-invasive scores, which are cost effective, easier to apply, and reproducible. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the predictive value of four non-invasive scores (FIB-4, APRI, AST/ALT ratio, and aMAP) in assessing severe fibrosis/cirrhosis and the presence of HCC in patients with HBV/HDV superinfection, as compared with HBV mono-infection. Our 8-year retrospective analysis revealed that HDV-infected patients had a 2–3 times higher risk of developing cirrhosis and HCC than HBV-mono-infected subjects. High AST and ALT baseline levels qualified as independent predictors for cirrhosis development in both groups. The following fibrosis scores, FIB-4, APRI score, and AAR, were significantly increased when cirrhosis was present at baseline and showed a good prediction for developing cirrhosis in the CHD group. The aMAP score, a risk predictor for HCC, showed significantly higher values in patients with HCC in both groups. Nonetheless, non-invasive scores should always be considered for monitoring patients with CHB and CHD, but only when associated with other diagnosis methods.

A new variational approach for a boundary value problem in mathematical physics is proposed. By considering two-field Lagrange multipliers, we deliver a variational formulation consisting of a mixed variational problem which is equivalent with a saddle point problem. Thus, the unique solvability of the weak formulation we propose is governed by the saddle point theory. Alternative variational formulations and some of their connections are also discussed.