bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Reproductive System Dysbiosis on the Course of Pregnancy
Authors: Piekarz Karolina , Macura Barbara , Kiecka Aneta
Published: July 2024

Genetic, endocrine and immunological disorders, anatomical defects in the reproductive tract, certain chronic diseases, toxic substances, or advanced age of the mother are most cited among the main causes of pregnancy loss at various stages. However, the cause of miscarriage or preterm labor in some cases remains unclear. Determination of the etiology about these clinical conditions may reduce the rate of reproductive failure. Similarly, the etiology of other obstetric disorders, such as preeclampsia or postpartum hemorrhage, has not been fully explained. One of the postulated and still under-researched causes of these disorders may be dysbiosis within the reproductive tract. A disturbed microbial balance is not always associated with the presence of an acute infection with clear clinical symptoms. Dysbiosis in conjunction with other pathophysiological factors may increase the risk of the mentioned clinical conditions. The aim of this paper is to show the information indicating the existence of a correlation between dysbiosis and an increase in the risk of obstetric disorders. Further analysis is also required to clarify the mechanism of the effect of dysbiosis on the disruption of metabolic and biochemical processes within the reproductive system during pregnancy.
Merkel cell carcinoma - particularities and morphological aspect of a unique and rare entity
Authors: Tinca Andreea Cătălina , Lazar Bianca Andreea , Cotoi Ovidiu Simion
Published: July 2024

Introduction: Merkel cell carcinoma is a very rare malignant neoplasm which presents high aggressivity, high recurrence rate and has meta-static potential. Our purpose is to present the histological and immunohistochemical particularities of Merkel Cell Carcinoma while reviewing potential differential diagnoses and challenges that we can encounter in daily practice.

Case presentation: We present the case of an 86-year-old female patient who presented with a nodular tumour located in the left forearm, raising suspicion of a soft tissue tumour. The histological appearance of this unique type of cancer is highlighted on the Haematoxylin-eosin stain as a solid tumour composed of nests and chords of monomorphic cells. The nuclei of these tumoral cells appear characteristically as enlarged with dispersed chromatin. The immunohistochemical reactions have been performed and it was observed that the tumoral cells exhibited positivity for synaptophysin, CD56, NSE, EMA, as well as a “dot-like” expression for CK20. These histopathological and immunohistochemical features were consistent with a diagnosis of MCC, stage pT3, based on the assessment of tumour size.

Conclusions: Sometimes, differentiating this tumour from other primary malignant neoplasms of the skin or even cutaneous metastases can be difficult. Immunohistochemistry remains the most important tool of diagnosis, especially for differentiating this neoplasm from metastatic neuroendocrine tumours that can affect the skin.
Prognostic value of leukocyte-glycemic index in long-term evolution of diabetic patients with peripheral arterial disease following endovascular treatment
Authors: Mureșan Adrian Vasile , Arbănași Emil-Marian , Bartus Reka , Mărginean Lucian , Cordoș Bogdan Andrei , Ciucanu Claudiu Constantin , Russu Eliza
Published: July 2024

Objective: The aim of this article is to determine the predictive value of the leukocyte-glycemic index in the long-term evolution of diabetic patients with peripheral arterial disease following endovascular treatment.

Methods: This retrospective observational study enrolled 127 diabetic patients diagnosed with peripheral arterial disease requiring endovascular treatment. Patients were categorized into two groups based on the severity of the infrapopliteal atherosclerotic lesions identified during the pre-operative Computer Tomography Angiography examination. Group 1 includes patients without severe damage to the infrapopliteal artery, while Group 2 includes patients with severe infrapopliteal artery damage, identified by stenosis greater than 70% on all infrapopliteal arteries. The primary outcome was to assess the association between leukocyte-glycemic index value at baseline and the severity of infrapopliteal atherosclerotic lesions and long-term major amputation after percutaneous transluminal angioplasty.

Results: Patients in Group 2 had a higher incidence of cardiovascular events (p=0.009), stage IV Leriche-Fontaine (p=0.016), and incidence of major amputation (p<0.001), as well as an increased value of leukocyte-glycemic index (p=0.004). During the follow-up, patients with above-median leukocyte-glycemic index value have a higher risk of major amputation (p=0.034), as seen in the Kaplan-Meier analysis. Moreover, at cox-regression, elevated biomarker values were associated with long-term risk of major amputation, independent of age, sex, cardiovascular risk factors, and below-the-knee arterial occlusion (HR:2.69, p=0.001).

Conclusions: Elevated values of leukocyte-glycemic index are associated with the severity of infrapopliteal atherosclerotic lesions and major amputation in the long term.
The effects of pearl oyster shell-derived bone grafts on TNF-alfa levels: An in vivo study in Cavia porcellus
Authors: Oktawati Sri , Hamrun Nurlindah , Muthmainnah Muthmainnah , Setiawati Dian , Yusuf Andi Sitti Hajrah
Published: July 2024

Objective: This study aims to assess the effect of bone graft materials derived from pearl oyster shells on the tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) level.

Methods: This research utilized a bone graft containing hydroxyapatite Pinctada maxima (HPM) powder obtained from pearl oyster shells. Material testing was conducted on 30 male guinea pigs aged 8-10 weeks, divided into three groups: the negative control group, the group treated solely with HPM, and the group treated with HPM combined with platelet-rich fibrin (PRF). Each treatment group was observed for 7 and 14 days. The results were analyzed using One-way ANOVA with a significance level of p<0.05.

Results: The findings demonstrated a decrease in the average TNF-α levels across all groups. On observation days 7 and 14, the HPM group exhibited a significant difference compared to the negative control group, indicating reduced TNF-α levels. However, no significant difference was observed when comparing the HPM group with the HPM and PRF groups.

Conclusions: Bone grafts derived from pearl oyster shells possess high levels of hydroxyapatite, and the addition of PRF into the bone graft effectively reduces TNF-α.
Concerns and Achievements Regarding the Increase of the Open Pits’ Economic Efficiency
Authors: Fodor Dumitru , Georgescu Mircea , Vedinaş Ioan Călin
Published: July 2024

Starting from the remark that in the 20th and early 21st century open pits have experienced an unprecedented expansion, the paper analyzes the current and future concerns related to the open pits of useful mineral substances and highlights with concrete data and notable achievements all the activities carried out in an open pit, finally presenting the technical-economic indicators obtained in Romanian open pits.
Research and Evaluation of Coal Mine Ventilation Management
Authors: Gurin Arkady , Shapovalov Viktor , Lyashenko Vasyl
Published: July 2024

The main scientific and practical results of the study and assessment of ventilation control in coal mines using the decomposition method based on data from the analysis of aerodynamic parameters of air distribution are presented. This will lead to increased safety and reduced accident rates in mining operations at coal mines. Methods of decomposition, statistical dynamics, set theory, fundamental laws of mining aerodynamics, and discrete mathematics are described. The studies were carried out based on the experimental data of the authors using various mathematical and statistical methods. A universal technique is proposed that can be used in mine workings for analysis, assessment of ventilation processes and associated aerodynamic factors, as well as optimization of the air distribution control system under various operating modes. A methodology and application software developed on its basis have been compiled. Automated geographic information systems such as GIS K-MINE® (Krivoy Rog, Ukraine) and VENTSIM are recommended. This system has been approved by regulatory authorities in Ukraine and is utilized by specialists from industry institutes, State Mining Supervision authorities, mines, and others. They are adapted for coal mines, ensuring increased safety and efficiency of work. This will ensure increased safety, labor protection, and reduced accident rates in coal mining operations.
The Gold of the Dacians
Authors: Bolunduţ Ioan-Lucian
Published: July 2024

The Dacians hoarded about 200 tons of gold and 400 tons of silver, before the Roman conquest of 105/106 AD. The exploitation of gold and silver by the Dacians is attested by the multitude of artifacts discovered in the territory inhabited by them. The work presents the most important treasures of gold and silver of the Dacians, but also the evaluation of the spoils of war taken by the Romans after the defeat of the Dacians.
Research on the Identification of Inactive Mining Sites with the Potential for Soil Contamination in the Jiu Valley – Case Study Balomir Tailings Dump
Authors: Ioniţă Mădălina-Flavia , Radu Sorin Mihai , Dunca Emilia Cornelia
Published: July 2024

Jiu Valley is in an extensive transition process from an area rich in coal deposits to an area with 0 Carbon emissions. Coal mining was carried out in 14 mining perimeters arranged along the Jiu Valley. At the same time, the extraction of the useful mineral substance resulted in waste material that was stored in tailings dumps. Out of the total of 49 landfills, 25 have been greened, 15 are inactive and 9 are active. The total area occupied by them is approximately 210 ha, arranged near mining operations, in the valleys of some streams and even in the vicinity of human settlements. The paper aims to identify the potential for soil contamination due to inactive tailings dumps.
Structural Optimization of Occupational Risk Assessment in Romania: Case Study for the Activities Carried Out Within a Hydrotechnical Construction
Authors: Moraru Roland Iosif , Chivu Oana Roxana , Savu Ionel Dănuţ
Published: July 2024

After 18 years since the legislative changes in the field of safety and health at work introduced the obligation to assess occupational risks at all workplaces, we note that the indigenous method of the National Research and Development Institute for Labor Protection in Bucharest was quasi-generalized in applicability. Starting from this practical reality, this paper aims to offer a more synthetic and pragmatic version of the application of the method for more complex jobs/activities, in which several socio-professional categories of workers are involved, by structural optimization of the procedure for the implementation of the specific stages and tools, in order to increase the effectiveness of the assessment of occupational injury and illness risks. This finality is achieved through a case study applied to a construction activity carried out within an important hydro-technical project. The main advantages of the approach proposed by the authors are summarized.
Improving the Accuracy of Drone Measurements on Hydrotechnical Works
Authors: Balasz Csaba , Vereş Ioel , Fissgus Klaus , Ștefan Nelu
Published: July 2024

Topographic measurements made with the drone is an alternative way for creating 3D models, point clouds, etc., but they should be considered correct placement of ground control points to complete the required works precisely. To meet these needs to have a sub millimeter precision in this publication we will treat such as positioning, verification and comparison precisions achieved by attaching ground control points to the point cloud. These ground control points are measured with two different devices, namely the robotic total station and two dual-frequency GPS receivers used in base & rover mode. Errors made on ground control points can influence the whole cloud of points and we will demonstrate the extent to which this occurs.
Defining Aspects of the New Economy in Valea Jiului Carboniferous Basin
Authors: Ceuţă Simona
Published: July 2024

The new economy of Valea Jiului Carboniferous Basin changes the economic profile of the six localities with urban status in Hunedoara County: Petroșani, Vulcan, Lupeni, Petrila, Uricani and Aninoasa. The changes in the new economic landscape occurred in a relatively short period of time (about 33 years) and created educational, social and political imbalances. The new economy proposes the reintegration of a significant part of the population by abandoning extractive operations, reducing the secondary sector of the economy and focusing on the tertiary sector, the service sector. The business environment in the Valea Jiului coalfield is going through a new stage, which began with the restructuring that began in 1990. It is influenced positively or negatively by technological advances, European Union policies, local, national and international political events and the evolution of demand and supply. Technology and strategic innovators have the opportunity to quickly enter competitive markets and replace or assimilate local players.
Possibilities for Synchronizing Equipment Used in Cartographic Data Collection
Authors: Glonţ Cristiana , Filip Larisa Ofelia
Published: July 2024

Technologies for collecting cartographic data using mobile platforms equipped with various types of equipment involve the integration and synchronization of the equipment to ensure that the spatial positioning of the collected data is as precise as possible. This article aims to analyse the possibilities for synchronizing data from a mobile terrestrial laser scanning system with images from a classic digital camera integrated into the system.
Mapping the Landscape: A Bibliometric Analysis of Rating Agencies in the Era of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
Authors: Davidescu Adriana AnaMaria , Agafiței Marina-Diana , Strat Vasile Alecsandru , Dima Alina Mihaela
Published: July 2024

In the ever-evolving financial landscape, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) is revolutionising creditworthiness assessment. The vast body of literature on credit rating indicates a growing prevalence of these techniques in the rating processes. Although these methods boast high predictive accuracy, concerns about their robustness, equity, and explainability affect the confidence of various parties in rating agencies. This comprehensive study explores the dynamic intersection of these cutting-edge technologies with rating agencies, presenting an in-depth literature review employing a bibliometric analysis that uses the Bibliometrix and Biblioshiny packages from R. The paper makes a significant contribution by analysing the literature across three prominent databases: Web of Science, Scopus, and arXiv. The empirical findings indicate that despite a recent growing interest, the relatively limited number of documents implies that, while there is a wide literature about credit rating in general, when it comes to rating agencies, the literature is much more limited. This limitation may stem from a certain lack of transparency in the methods and processes used by rating agencies and the complex nature of these entities. The literature witnessed growth after the 2008 global financial crisis, where rating agencies faced significant criticism, and post-pandemic, indicating a need for more adaptable and precise ratings. The examination of the topic reveals a recent shift in focus within AI-driven rating agencies towards accountable governance. While traditional attention persists on artificial intelligence techniques and finance, the emerging emphasis on ethical considerations, societal impacts, and performance evaluation underscores a changing landscape. This transition underscores the growing importance of integrating ethical considerations and societal impacts into the operational frameworks of AI-powered rating agencies, emphasising the necessity for responsible and transparent decision-making practices.
Transfer Pricing in the Post-BEPS Era: the BEPS Package, as a Tool in Helping Tax Authorities Prevent Aggressive Tax Optimization in a Specific Sector. Case Study: the IT Industry in Romania
Authors: Lupu Mihai
Published: July 2024

The debate regarding the willingness of enterprises to use transfer pricing for tax optimization is one with significant history (the first OECD report on transfer pricing dates from 1979). In the last fifteen years, this topic gained great traction as globalization became a key word in all economic undertakings. In 2013 the OECD/G20 officially launched the BEPS project, aimed at identifying and closing any loopholes present in the taxation system used by companies to optimize their tax burden. The work was finalized in 2015 by issuing the BEPS Package. However, the fight against base erosion and profit shifting did not end, as the OECD/G20 periodically monitors how the measures are implemented. Considering the importance of the IT sector in Romania, it is significant to investigate if the BEPS Package is an efficient tool in helping Romanian tax authorities prevent aggressive tax optimization in this industry. To provide a tentative answer, a statistical analysis was performed, aimed at comparing the profitability of related and non-related Romanian IT companies. Although the BEPS Package is not the only factor influencing the behavior of taxpayers, the work of OECD/G20 is one of the main forces shaping the Romanian taxation environment. Following the analysis, no significant differences were identified between the profitability of related and non-related companies, leading to the conclusion that local taxpayers are not inclined to engage in aggressive tax optimization, which is also a consequence of the way in which the legislation was drafted, influenced by the BEPS Package.
Taxes and Entrepreneurship in Former Communist Countries
Authors: Șancariuc Delia-Raluca , Preda Dragoș Cosmin Lucian
Published: July 2024

This paper analyzes the influence of the fiscal framework on entrepreneurship, seeking to quantify the magnitude of this influence. It starts by reviewing the main findings of the literature, showing that, while there is consensus that both tax levels and the bureaucracy that surrounds tax payments have a negative effect on entrepreneurship, there is no unanimity regarding which of the two have a stronger effect. It then continues with an empirical approach, which resides in estimating an OLS regression of two measures of entrepreneurship activity (the number of enterprises that are newly created during one year, and the total number of enterprises that exist in one year in a country) on three fiscal explanatory variables (profit tax levels, labor tax levels, and the time spent to pay taxes), using a panel sample of 27 post-communist countries across a period of 15 years. Empirical results suggest that both tax levels and the bureaucracy that surrounds tax compliance have a negative effect on entrepreneurial activity. The level of the profit tax exerts the strongest negative influence on both the number of newly created enterprises, and the total number of enterprises that exist in a country, while the level of the labor tax exerts a negative, albeit weaker influence, which is significant only for the total number of enterprises. The time spent to pay taxes (expressed as the number of hours per year) returns the lowest coefficient, yet it has a statistically significant negative effect on both the number of newly created and the total number of enterprises.
Cognitive Shifts: Exploring the Impact of AI on Generation Z and Millennials
Authors: Savin Petre Sorin , Rusu Georgiana , Prelipcean Mihai , Barbu Lucia Nicoleta
Published: July 2024

Our study focuses on exploring the cognitive changes that Artificial Intelligence has on two generational cohorts: Millennials and Generation Z. Artificial Intelligence has developed so much that it can intervene in solving problems, streamlining tasks, and providing information very fast. However, there might be a risk regarding this technology that could have a negative effect on critical thinking, decisionmaking, and memory. Through our research paper, we focused on discovering if Artificial Intelligence has an impact on the cognition of two generations: Millenials and Generation Z.

For this, we used an approach in which we integrated mixed research methods, both quantitative and qualitative, to ascertain the complex interaction between AI and cognition. The results indicated that neither the educational background nor the generational differences produced significant outcomes, suggesting that both generations can integrate AI technologies into their everyday lives. Although the benefits are obvious, there are some concerns about cognitive shifts, so that, through a balanced integration of Artificial Intelligence in everyday life, we can end up capitalizing on its potential for a positive cognitive impact.

Based on the research findings, we discovered a complex connection between the use of AI among Generation Z and Millennials and cognitive changes, suggesting a uniform cognitive involvement with AI technologies among the respondents. However, certain concerns remain regarding the potential negative effects that can be represented by the addiction that it can cause, and by a certain cognitive laziness. This paper contributes to this field by highlighting the need for a balanced approach to the integration of Artificial Intelligence in educational and professional environments, advocating strategies that capitalize on the advantages of Artificial Intelligence while mitigating the negative impact on cognition
RETRACTED: Internationalisation of Network Enterprises from the SME Sector in Poland in 2019-2022 with a Focus on the Łódź Voivodeship
Authors: Andrzejczak Beata
Published: July 2024

The aim of this article is to discuss the problem of internationalisation of small and mediumsized enterprises sector organisations in Poland in the years 2019-2022 with a particular focus on the Łódź Voivodeship (9th position from the point of view of entrepreneurship in the regions of Poland). The first part of the article provides the theoretical background of internationalisation of enterprises. The second part contains an analysis of empirical data on the basis of author’s own research and determinants of company growth relating to the internationalisation of the small and medium-sized enterprises sector in Poland in the years 2019-2022 with a particular focus on the Łódź Voivodeship. The main research hypothesis in the article is that the majority of enterprises in the small and medium-sized enterprises sector in the Łódź Voivodeship conduct international activities, although the geographic range of the (international) activities of both transport-shipment-logistics companies and companies from the production and service industry (outside the transport-shipment-logisitcs industry), does not translate into a high share products/services ordered on the international market to the total quantity of products/services ordered by these companies. The article was written on the basis of the literature on the subject, survey results and reports of the Polish Agency for Enterprise Development and documents of the Marshal's Office of the Łódź Voivodeship.
An Analysis of the Digital Resilience Challenge for Implementing EU Programs and Instruments
Authors: Miron Dumitru , Ionel Elena-Simona , Belciu Alina-Camelia
Published: July 2024

One of the most acute challenges to which EU member countries urgently need to find solutions is related to digital resilience. Such a challenge must be addressed from both a temporal, spatial, and financial perspective. One of the areas where both problems and solutions to them must be placed is that of structural and investment funds. At the EU level, the new development model is feverishly sought, which must be green, digital, and resilient. The authors of this study explore how European Union funding programs and specifically the Recovery and Resilience Facility, influence the advancement of digital transition. It explores and quantifies the value added of using these programs to obtain more sustainable growth, societal inclusion, and global competitiveness through digital transformation. One of the most relevant hypothesis is that despite a growing interest in the impact of EU financial instruments on digitalisation, to different societal levels, lacks a comprehensive analysis that combines both the broad scope of EU initiatives and the specific impact of the RRF. Using qualitative methods, the authors investigated the main pitfalls and asymmetries of the allocative methods, the allocation, and impact of EU funding on digital transformation. The main focus of this paper is to answer the research questions regarding the connection between budget allocation for digital transformation and the position of digital transformation in EU priorities, while highlighting the changes that Recovery and Resilience Facility is bringing compared to other financial instruments for promoting digitalization in EU. Following this research route, we find indication that the budget allocations EU makes for digitalization, specifically through the Recovery and Resilience Facility demonstrate that digital transition is one of EU strategic priorities. The amounts and percentages made available through the Recovery and Resilience Facility which target to support in particular digital initiatives underline its key role in EU digital strategy. The clear comparison of EU financing programs that focus on digitalization, while providing a comprehensive literature review that gives a refined understanding of digitalization’s impact will enable professionals and policy makers to analyze EU strategic objectives and identify key focus areas that require additional support, thus contributing to EU digitalization efforts.
Testing the Validity of CAPM on Bucharest Stock Exchange
Authors: Blaga Florin , Mihai Dănuț-Georgian , Trifu Ludovic-Cosmin , Bichir-Ghelase Antonela
Published: July 2024

In this paper, we test the validity of CAPM hypothesis during COVID-19 period. Using 10 high-liquid securities traded on Bucharest Stock Exchange during February 2020 to April 2020, we estimate the baseline CAPM alongside two additional extensions controlling for COVID-19 related news and foreign stock exchange evolution. With only one exception, for all the securities included in the analysis, the CAPM is valid regardless of the model specification, suggesting that during COVID-19 financial turmoil, the investors trading on Bucharest Stock Exchange had a rational behavior.
An Empirical Analysis of the European Union's Economy and Politics in the Context of the War in Ukraine
Authors: Ichim Alexandru-Mihăiță
Published: July 2024

Crises will always change society. Since 2020, since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, the world economy has had many trials to overcome. Likewise, the values of states or state alliances prioritizing their citizens' medical, social, and economic well-being have also been tested.

The European Union was severely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, but two years after its appearance, another critical event would accentuate the existing problems and put it in great difficulty. This critical event is the war started by Russia against Ukraine in February 2022. Given the desire Ukraine expressed since 2014 through the EUROMAIDAN movement, the EU could not remain indifferent to what was happening there, and from the very first moments of the war, it showed its support for economic, military, and diplomatic relations towards Ukraine. Thus, the second economic power of the world had to put the decent living and well-being of its citizens to the test in order to save its people.

However, it is crucial how much the standard of living of the Europeans suffered compared to the citizens of the states that also contributed to helping Ukraine.

Through a difference-in-difference analysis (DID), this article aims to observe how large the discrepancy was between the sacrifice made by Europeans compared to the sacrifice made by other people regarding the values of the consumer price index and consumer confidence index.

One thing is sure: regardless of cost, people's freedom, peace, and life are priceless.
Long-Term Labor Force Projections in Romania: An Analysis Based on Data on the Economic Impact of Population Aging
Authors: Crețulescu Andreea
Published: July 2024

In the last 30 years, Romania has faced one of the most significant migration phenomena globally, losing over two million inhabitants according to official statistics. However, these figures are reported based on the registered domicile of the population, with many immigrants avoiding changing their residence in Romania, even though they live and work in other countries for decades. This migration has primarily affected the active population, leading to an increasing deficit in Romania's labor market in recent years. Current estimates already indicate a shortage of personnel in sectors such as technology, healthcare, education, or construction. For the year 2024, Romania has approved a new quota of 100,000 foreign workers to address this issue. This decision was made due to the high number of work permit requests in the last 12 months and the significant number of job vacancies reported by employers. This study aims to use methodologies employed by the OECD and the European Commission to project long-term labor force trends in Romania (until 2070) in comparison with other EU member states, anticipating the economic impact of population aging.
Understanding the Need for Income Tax Incentives. A Case Study on the It Sector in Romania
Authors: Popescu-Predulescu Raluca-Andreea
Published: July 2024

In 2023, the Romanian Government decided on the reduction and alignment of tax incentives for employees in the IT, construction, agriculture and food industry sectors. This paper aims to analyze the impact on these activity fields, with a focus on the IT sector. For this purpose, indicators such as number of employees, percentage in the total GDP and labor productivity were considered relevant and the data was processed using the regression analysis. Thus, the implementation of fiscal facilities had an overall positive impact on all industries in terms of employment, but not necessarily as a percentage of GDP. A strong, direct link between the increase in the mean salary in the IT industry and number of employees, labor productivity and percentage of GDP was determined, with a coefficient of multiple determination of over 90% for all three regression analyses. The elimination of benefits for the employees working in IT might have a negative impact on the sector which has become a main strategic resource for Romania, mainly because the possibility of working remotely can make companies easily relocate their IT departments.
Teaching Careers from the Perspective of Graduates of Training Programmes for Teachers (Pilot Study: ASE)
Authors: Stăiculescu Camelia , Dincă Violeta Mihaela , Gheba Andreea
Published: July 2024

The article aims to identify how graduates of the psycho-pedagogical training program of the Department for the Preparation of Teaching Personnel (DPPD) and of the Master’s in Teaching (MD) at the Bucharest University of Economic Studies (ASE) relate to the idea of a teaching career, their level of interest and motivation to continue in this professional direction, as well as their satisfaction with these programs and the skills acquired, using as a case study the graduates of the two programs at the ASE. Teachers’ motivation is considered an important factor both for job satisfaction and for the level of teaching performance, or the degree of retention in the field, less addressed in the human resources policy at the level of teaching staff in state institutions. Thus, the discussion can also be considered relevant in the context of the precarious salaries in Romanian education, a problem that can generate difficulties in attracting qualified people with a high level of skills in the field in which they teach. The main results of the pilot study showed that a large part of the respondents consider that their teaching career path is one that suits them, with an increasing interest in training and documentation, as well as in interacting with learners. The study concludes with the idea that intrinsic and altruistic factors are most important to graduates, in choosing a career in this field
Sustainable Consumption Patterns: Evaluating Consumer Preferences and Barriers in the Adoption of Organic Versus Conventional Agri-Food Products
Authors: Badea Ana-Maria
Published: July 2024

This study delves into how consumers view and choose between conventional agri food items focusing on the factors that influence their purchasing decisions amidst growing concerns about climate change and sustainability. By gathering insights from a focus group of 21 individuals, the research uncovers a clear preference for products due to perceived health and environmental advantages. Consumers recognize the quality, taste and nutritional value of items, which justifies their higher price points. Nonetheless challenges like affordability, limited availability and lack of information pose obstacles to adoption. The paper underscores the importance of an approach to promote product consumption through government initiatives awareness efforts, education programs and cost saving production methods.
Capitalism and Governance – a Macroeconomic Overview of “Everyone’s Interest”
Authors: Bodislav Dumitru Alexandru , Bran Florina , Petrescu Irina Elena , Chiotan Radu Florin
Published: July 2024

The macroeconomic mode of economic growth, the backward-pyramidal evolution from the capitalist structure, the emergence of the free enterprise, and the corporate form of business organizations in our system of free markets are all examined in this research.

This study aims to provide insight into the particularities of the many aspects of the governance process. This study focuses on privately held businesses that are publicly held by shareholders or social part owners. It also examines the state-corporate relationship and its effects on geo-social, political, and economic spheres.
Integrative Digital Governance: The Role of Public Administration in Promoting Sustainable Development amid Post-Pandemic Technological Innovations
Authors: Burlacu Sorin , Creţu Romeo Cătălin , Potcovaru Ana Mădălina Bâgu , Călin Ana Maria
Published: July 2024

Our study intends to find out how integrative digital governance in public administration can support sustainable development. The Covid-19 pandemic’s effects and current technology developments presented the chance. Mainly qualitative analysis, which included case study analysis and a review of the specialized literature, made up the research approach. Using this approach, we want to find potential approaches to include digital transformation into public administration. Our initial assumption was that the digitalization of public administration might make it easier to accomplish goals related to global development.

Based on the findings of our study, we can declare that digitisation of public administration has a great potential to boost effectiveness, openness and civic engagement. Technologies would make participation easier and guarantee equal access for all citizens. All the same, our study emphasizes how complicated digitalization is. This covers the possible hazards connected to digital technology included into systems of public administration. We underline as recommendations the need of implementing a cooperation strategy that includes several activity sectors and degrees of digital governance. Our study has certain limitations mostly because we chose a limited number of case studies. This reality, we think, may affect the general applicability of the obtained results. We advise considering these restrictions in case our study is replicated. Furthermore, we think that the rate at which technology is developing now calls for a constant assessment of the outcomes that are attained by incorporating post-pandemic technological advancements into digital governance. Our study adds value by advancing our understanding of sustainable development in the digital era and by drawing attention to the challenges public administration has in embracing and leveraging digital developments.
The Role of Public Authorities in the Agro-Tourism Sector
Authors: Buzoianu Ovidiu Andrei Cristian , Pargaru Oana Camelia Iacob , Chiotan Radu Florian , Uta Nicolae Gabriel
Published: July 2024

In the countries of the European Union, agritourism is not a new phenomenon. Over time, for most EU countries: time meaning several decades, tourist accommodation has been practiced in a more or less spontaneous or organized manner. The new in this field is manifested by the expansion of the tourist phenomenon in the rural area. This expansion is explained, on the one hand, by relaunching the development of rural regions and, on the other hand, by diversifying the forms of mass tourism practice. The activity has proven to be profitable, especially as a result of changes in the preferences and habits of tourists towards individual tourism, to the detriment of mass tourism. On the other hand, the migration to the city, the modernization of work in the agricultural sector, the changes caused by the increase in competition in the rural world through the expansion of the free community market, have a counterweight in agritourism. Activities in the sphere of tourism can economically revive the villages, if the benevolent attitude of their inhabitants, to receive and accept in their midst wasteful and demanding guests, is favorably received. The objective of this article is to interconnect the concept of agritourism analyzed at the European level with the main strategies and stability policies of public authorities in the large-scale development of this type of non-invasive tourism
The Importance of Ecovillage Communities in Romania
Authors: Dobrea Cătălin Răzvan , Mănescu Cătălin Octavian , Vasilache Cristian Petrut , Moncea Mădălina
Published: July 2024

This paper aims to analyze and propagate the concept of eco-village as much as possible within the majority of Romanian communities. A sustainable ecovillage or village is a traditional or intentional community created to become socially, culturally, economically and ecologically sustainable. The ecovillage community hosts an alternative way of organizing people’s lives, so as to create sustainable relationships between people and the environment, without altering it. This study incorporates a model of successful eco-village, corroborated with the necessary factors and strategies that determine the formation of social and civic capital. There are numerous claims from researchers and community members, in the academic and grey literature, that intentional communities are making significant improvements towards sustainability goals, particularly in terms of environmental impact. However, actual measures of progress, with evidence supporting these claims, are relatively scarce
Professional Training in Public Administration in Romania during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Gaf-Deac Ioan , Radulescu Carmen-Valentina , Burlacu Sorin , Dima Cristina
Published: July 2024

Professional training is a basic element in the professional development of any employee, especially considering the evolution of the last months, marked by the Covid-19 pandemic and important economic and social changes. The crisis caused by the pandemic and the disappearance of many jobs, forces employees to professional conversions or to sharpen the area of activity by acquiring new, sometimes challenging skills.

The aim of the study is to analyze the professional training activity in the public administration during the COVID-19 pandemic, to identify the advantages and disadvantages of training in the online system, the efficiency of this type of training, as well as the factors that would have a positive impact on a good performance of this activity. The research method is quantitative, based on the opinion survey, through the self-administered questionnaire.

Employees are open to training, especially when dealing with new jobs and technologies or simply to stay up to date with the latest information in their field. Employers, in turn, want professional, efficient and motivated employees. Vocational training is a necessary tool to remain competitive in the labor market and to face the challenges of a global economy where digital skills are the key factor.
From Constitutional Mandate to Holistic Sustainability: Insights from Switzerland’s Strategic Approach
Authors: Paraschiv Liana
Published: July 2024

In the complex landscape of the 21st century, sustainability stands as a guiding principle, urging individuals, businesses, and governments to adopt policies and practices that promote resilience and collective well-being. Switzerland has gradually defined a multidimensional framework to promote sustainable development, encompassing legal mandates, sector strategies, and innovative practices. Since 1999, sustainability has been incorporated into the Swiss Federal Constitution, aligning the concept of sustainability with the definition of the Brundtland Commission. The Sustainable Development Strategy (SDS) and its integration with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development provide a comprehensive roadmap for national sustainability initiatives, ensuring alignment with global goals. The current state of scientific literature on sustainability in Switzerland reveals specific analyses in dedicated areas yet there is an absence of analyses that synthesize the multitude of dimensions in Switzerland’s sustainability approach. The research methodology of the current paper combines a top-down examination of the existing legal framework, starting from the incorporation of sustainable development principles into the Federal Constitution, with a literature review across various sectors and policy domains. The research question guiding this study focuses on clarifying Switzerland’s holistic approach to sustainability and identifying key policies and initiatives that helped the country achieve progress and ensure the coverage of various economic, social, and environmental areas. The main results of this study highlight Switzerland’s robust sustainability legal framework, constitutional mandate, innovative approaches, and a concerted effort to align policies with sustainability goals. The implications of these findings for the field offer insights for policymakers, researchers, and practitioners seeking to understand and replicate Switzerland’s success in integrating sustainability into governance frameworks. In synthesizing the contributions of this paper, Switzerland’s sustainability journey develops gradually to serve as a valuable case study for other nations, demonstrating the value that relies on interconnecting environmental protection, economic prosperity, and social well-being.
Challenges of Organizations in the Approach to Sustainable Development
Authors: Rozovlean Delia
Published: July 2024

Sustainability is far from a new concept. This paper conducts fundamental research by using the Harzing Publish or Perish software, 941 articles are extracted from the Google Scholar platform. The articles have as their main topic sustainable development and were published between 2000 and 2023. Using VOSviewer, the complex connections between the topics addressed by researchers, universities, author affiliation and other elements involved in sustainable development are highlighted. The obtained results show that the field of sustainability is of interest for research, with the number of publications increasing during the analyzed period, with some fluctuations. The keywords analyzed show that education, economic growth, and climate action are among the most used and require further attention in the future. The limitations of the paper refer to the use of a single database. Future research will also address other databases.
Concepts of Ethics to Engage the Older Person with the Community
Authors: Naughton Mary McDonnell
Published: July 2024

Almost half of Europe’s region is rural. There is also a dearth in essential services along with an aging population. There is an ethical obligation by society to reflect on how the older person is facilitated to engage with communities. Family structures in Europe are changing, moving from rural to urban areas with increasing numbers of older people living alone. This has consequences for the role of communities and public policy to ensure that the older person remains socially connected. The aim of this review paper is an attempt to explore some important concepts in relation to the older person and their engagement with communities. It is not an ultimate review. The objective is an attempt to reflect on ethical considerations that necessitates consideration in relation to the older person and their self- determination with regards to reducing loneliness and assisting them to live in age friendly communities. Methodology utilised a snapshot of various ideologies in relation to the older person and their unique attributes that may improve their quality of life.

Conclusion: The older person is growing in population, throughout the globe. Their enormous contribution to society is at times undermined. Empowerment of the older person to enable them to express their wishes is vital. An ethical model for enabling the older person to make decisions is vital. This model must also include components with expertise from various technologies in relation to the older person. This review will place emphasis on communities to ensure that the older person is included in societal affairs and facilitate them to make their contribution. This review will help to understand how important it is to ensure that the older person gets opportunities to get involved in communities so that loneliness and social isolation is minimised.
Loan Schemes Granted for Students as a European Union Financial Instrument for Education Inclusion in Its Member States
Authors: Torjescu Ana-Maria
Published: July 2024

European Union financial instruments and more specifically loan schemes are tools that have been developed and used more and more in the world we are leaving in due to their availability as well as their accessibility for the European Union member states. Due to the significant implicants in education, these loan schemes became a foundation stone in the development of education inclusion. The aim of this paper is to show the way these loan schemes have been used, the scheme of these programs, the impact they had on the beneficiaries and on the education, the challenges and possible lessons for helping in the creation of the future funding programs. In doing a better understanding and analysis, I have used a multiple case analysis representing a qualitative method that focuses on analyzing of three different case studies on three different countries that have been used loan schemes as financial instruments for giving access to higher education programs for students that were not able to and facilitate education inclusion in their state. The main findings suggests that these loan funds have a positive impact on the evolution of education inclusion, students being open to apply for them even if in some cases, the understanding of the mechanism behind it was a little bit difficult in the beginning. Overall, based on the case studies and on the number of the applicants that took advantage of these funding programs, it can be concluded that these types of financial instruments must continue to be used in the future and extended in more regions no matter of their development status.