bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Impact of Sustainability Performance on Company Profitability in the COVID-19 Pandemic and Post-Pandemic Context
Authors: Ştefan Alexandra , Ștefănescu Aurelia
Published: July 2024

The current context, dominated by climate change, resource constraints, health and financial crises, the need for continuity and increased profitability of companies, increasing stakeholder interest in environmental risks and non-financial information, requires addressing business from the perspective of environmental, social and governance standards. Companies will therefore integrate their sustainability performance objectives, complementary to their profitability objectives. Thus, the objective of this research is to measure the impact that sustainability performance has on company profitability. The research approach is two-dimensional. The first dimension considers the literature review on conceptual approaches specific to environmental, social, governance standards. The results highlighted the upward trend and the diversity of facets related to environmental, social, governance standards. The second dimension is a quantitative research that aims to measure the impact that sustainability performance (ESG score) has on the profitability of listed companies in Europe. The research data was collected for the period 2020-2022 from the Refinitiv database (LSEG Data & Analytics). The results revealed an increase in interest in sustainability performance of listed companies in Europe, both from the perspective of the reporting companies and in terms of the global average ESG score, during the COVID-19 pandemic and post-pandemic. From the perspective of the regional affiliation of the reporting companies, Southern Europe is the best performing pole in terms of average ESG score, followed by Western Europe, Eastern Europe, Central Europe and the last position is occupied by Northern Europe. The results also showed that the ESG score has a positive but insignificant influence on the profitability of the sampled companies. This research complements the literature, given the topicality and importance of ESG issues, but is also relevant for stakeholders interested in the sustainability of companies' business.
A Systematic Literature Review of Trends in Digital Marketing Research in Romania
Authors: Catană Ştefan-Alexandru , Barbu Andreea
Published: July 2024

In the contemporary world, the significance of technology has become increasingly paramount. Hence, we are living in times in which the theme of digitalization is a transformative force, reshaping our daily lives and fundamentally altering the way we interact, work, and perceive the world around us. The paper aims to conduct a bibliometric analysis of digital marketing research in Romania. A total of 37 studies were found and systematized using inclusion and exclusion criteria. The papers were selected only if they featured research on digital marketing in the Romanian market. Using this search strategy, a literature review was conducted based on papers extracted from the Web of Science database. As a result, 16 papers were evaluated. Although the analyzed articles highlight quite a variety of things, the papers emphasize that digital marketing is an emerging subject in the Romanian market. This paper adds to the existing body of knowledge that digital marketing can be viewed from three perspectives: the impact of digital marketing strategies on consumer behavior in the technology era, exploring the nexus of digital marketing and social media: consumer engagement, trends, and impact, and digital marketing transformations across industries: trends, challenges, and opportunities.
Scenario-Based Approach to AI’s Agency to Perform Human-Specific Tasks
Authors: Pelau Corina , Pop Stefana , Ciofu Ioana
Published: July 2024

The development of service robots and chatbots has changed the way companies interact with their customers. Several automated tasks have been taken over by AI, such as communication with customers, processing of orders and also other automated tasks. To measure the impact AI will have on our society, we have analyzed AI’s agency by testing different scenarios of AI’s ability to perform human-specific tasks such as having own political opinions, religious beliefs and other situations which go beyond the simple execution of tasks. The results show that consumers perceive a low probability that AI has such thoughts. However, AI with stronger anthropomorphic characteristics is more likely to have agency to perform these types of tasks. According to our study, a human-like appearance enhances the perception that AI can have political views, religious beliefs and an own identity. Moreover, people consider that AI with anthropomorphic characteristics should be responsible for their mistakes and punished if they do something wrong. In spite of this, AI, independent of its anthropomorphic characteristics, is not believed to have the ability to solve mankind problems such as reducing pollution, stabilizing the world economy or to ensure world peace. Our research also shows that men are more inclined to attribute agency to AI compared to women, which perceive a lower AI agency.
Standardization of Regression Equation Parameters in the Case of Multiple Linear Regression for an Econometric Model Development to Determine the Price of Apartments
Authors: Szentesi Silviu Gabriel , Pantea Mioara Florina , Trifan Vanina Adoriana , Mazuru Luminița Ioana , Szentesi Noemi Florina Gabriela
Published: July 2024

This study examines the relationship between apartment prices in Romania and various influencing factors, for which we have constructed a model using multiple linear regression. This type of regression equation's parameters hold practical significance as they aid in establishing the regression equation. The form of the connection, specifically the parameters that define it, greatly influences our understanding of the connection between various quantified variables in the proposed model. By determining the regression function in this manner, we created a model that allows us to make predictions or draw conclusions based on the variables within the model. Microeconomic variables are crucial in influencing real estate price variations at the individual property level. These variables are more specific and relate to factors within the local market of Arad or the property itself. Some key microeconomic variables can influence real estate prices, which are important to ascertain using statistical tools.
A D-VUCAD Transitioning Analysis on Romanian Higher Education System in the Context of Artificial Intelligence. Challenges, Opportunities and Perspectives
Authors: Tanasciuc Marcela
Published: July 2024

The significant global transformations in recent years have led to widespread disruption across numerous facets of society. Events such as the COVID-19 pandemic and other concurrent realities have had a tremendous impact on the global order, resulting in profound effects across various crucial dimensions in a D-VUCAD context.

Relevant studies highlight the fact that technology has redefined global higher education offering personalized learning but raising ethical concerns. Leadership must adapt to digital disruptions while addressing conflicts between traditional and modern approaches. In this context, the education system is rapidly changing due to technology and societal shifts, posing complex challenges for leaders. Enrollment fluctuations and workforce demands add to the volatility, requiring flexible responses. Furthermore, at EU level, European initiatives aim to improve education, but face practical hurdles in diverse contexts. Despite research common efforts, there's a need to bridge educational insights with real-world applications, navigating from uncertainty to clarity in an evolving digital era.

This paper aims to provide through the case study method, an original and unique D-VUCAD analysis on Romanian higher education system in the context of artificial intelligence to understand, on one hand, the realities, and the challenges it faces and on the other hand, to adapt the educational system to the new matrix, transitioning from old dimensions to the new ones: volatility to vision, uncertainty to unity, complexity to clarity, ambiguity to alignment, disruption to digitalization. While the first part of the case study identifies and illustrates with concrete examples and numbers the challenges Romanian higher education system is facing with, the second section of the research analyze the transition from traditional environment to the reinvented one, adding concrete initiatives, programs, and projects as examples to enrich the understanding of these manifests in the realm of higher leadership education perspectives.

Paper findings show that multiple initiatives and endeavors are ongoing to modernize the vocational education and training (VET) system, reforms and investments backed by the RRF are geared towards reducing the school dropout rates, enhancing the population’s digital skills and creating lifelong learning opportunities. However, ensuring high-quality, skills-oriented education and alignment with the labor market, policy coordination, efficient legislative initiatives and a comprehensive strategic framework delineating the vision and targets for education remain significant challenges.
The Importance of Entrepreneurship and the Exploration of Future Development Directions
Authors: Bogdea Constantin Florin , Rada Elena Cristina , Bogluț Geanina – Ioana , Goloșie Grațian - Daniel , Samfirescu Mircea
Published: July 2024

Entrepreneurship occupies an important place in the current dynamics of business and education. This research investigates the evolution of entrepreneurship research through a comprehensive bibliometric analysis. In an evolving global economic context, increased interest in entrepreneurship research has led to the use of Harzing Publish or Perish software to collect data from major research platforms such as Google Scholar, Scopus and Web of Science. A total of 920 relevant articles on entrepreneurship published between 2012 and 2022 were identified via Google Scholar. At the same time, entrepreneurship directions that need attention and can contribute to the entrepreneurial knowledge base were identified. In a landscape marked by rapid changes in information and communication technology, coupled with the significant influence of the digital economy, assessing the impact of these factors on entrepreneurship becomes essential. Using VOSviewer, we highlighted collaborations between authors, the impact of articles and key elements such as keywords in research. This research not only provides an overview of current entrepreneurship research, but also identifies unexplored areas and opportunities for future research directions. In conclusion, this review highlights emerging challenges and perspectives that can guide both academic research and entrepreneurship practice in the coming period.
European Elections and Financial Markets: Navigating Political Winds and Market Reactions
Authors: Stancea Andreea , Ciocîrlan Cecilia , Despina Adrian
Published: July 2024

A new wave of extreme right-wing political parties entered the European political scene both on the national levels and the European supra-governmental level sparking fears about the rule of law among investors and policymakers. The European Parliament’s elections scheduled for June 2024 are seen as a crucial turning point in the continent's political landscape. Using a mix of OLS regressions and event study, this paper analyzed how stock markets and bond markets reacted to European elections. The results show that the incumbent government's fiscal record appears to influence its re-election chances in developing countries and markets price weak fiscal balances around elections. The paper assessed how government bond markets reacted to the EP’s elections rounds of 2014 and 2019. These rounds of elections have been dominated by the political parties with cantered-orientated ideologies which may not be the case for the next round of elections in 2024. The results show how EP’s elections stabilized bond markets, especially in countries with weak macroeconomic fundamentals. The results emphasize the intricate relationship between fiscal policies, political events, and financial market behaviour. Investors, policymakers, and governments should consider these findings when assessing electoral and market dynamics, particularly in the context of the upcoming 2024 European Parliament elections.
Electric Vehicles Charging Services Perspectives and Challenges
Authors: Lauko Rastislav
Published: July 2024

The year 2023 marked another breakthrough in electromobility. Customers accept electric powertrain; sales of battery electric vehicles and plug-in hybrid vehicles are booming and public charging infrastructure follows the similar pace. However, the leading European independent charging stations operators, despite the significant public funding utilized for financing their expansion activities are still experiencing losses, as a result of their operation. Generally, current research work in area of electric vehicle charging is rather focused on specific and rather technical aspects of charging infrastructure operations, like optimization of charger locations, connection to energy networks and operational excellence. Very few authors are focusing on core business essentials of charging infrastructure operation, in particular on sustainability of their operations. Within this paper author conducted financial analyses of selected charging infrastructure operator in Europe, compared the conclusions with its peers. Furthermore, this paper has an ambition to perform synthesis (after thorough review and analysis of relevant information sources) of different aspects of e-mobility ecosystem to conclude innovative recommendations. The main result of this paper is the recommendation for the charging infrastructure operators to adjust their strategies and respective business models in terms to make a move towards slow charging world, by building and operating Vehicle to Grid equipped infrastructure as a supplement to fast chargers’ network. Sooner charging infrastructure operators will develop their competences in Vehicle to Grid world the better, mainly for two reasons. Firstly, it is very probable that Vehicle to Grid market will jump on fast track very soon. Not only from technology point of view, but also from services provided/expected from customers. Secondly, in Vehicle to Grid connected ecosystem lays needed tens or even hundreds of millions EUR opportunities which will be waiting for Electric Vehicle´s owners and any subjects which can facilitate and instrument interconnection between energy network’s needs – auxiliary services, storage of electricity, integration of renewable energy sources and traction batteries of Electric Vehicles.
Rethinking Digital Customer Complaints’ Problem Solving: The Synchronous Model
Authors: Sima Denisa-Roxana , Potra Sabina , Pugna Adrian , Chincea Rebecca
Published: July 2024

In the current business environment, problem-solving remains a critical and highly relevant skill for achieving customer satisfaction especially in the context of digitalization and industry 4.0 and a strong requirement from IATF 16949. In the present paper, a comprehensive analysis of existing problem-solving models is conducted, examining their strengths, limitations, and applicability in the manufacturing companies. By drawing insights from traditional methodologies, as already addressed in the scientific literature, such as Six-Step Model A3 methodology, 8 Disciplines, Six Sigma, the Cynefin Framework, Kepner-Tregoe Methodology and 5P (Principles) for Problem Solving, a new and integrative model designed to address the shortcomings identified in current approaches is created. This innovative framework, named “Synchronous Model” (Greek word for modern) synthesizes key elements from diverse models, offering a more adaptable solution to complex and modern problem-solving challenges. Emphasizing its potential for business digital transformation, we discuss how the proposed model fosters efficiency, agility, and strategic decision-making within organizational settings. This research not only contributes to the theoretical understanding of problem-solving methodologies but also provides valuable insights for practitioners seeking innovative approaches to address challenges in their respective industries, for which the current methods are either not sufficient or too complex. The integration of “Synchronous Model” is meant to elevate problem-solving practices, offering a transformative impact on business operations and strategic decision-making, all in the benefit of the customer.
Enhancing Faculty Satisfaction and Performance in Higher Education: The Transformative Role of HR and Technology Integration
Authors: Alakoum Alice , Nica Elvira , Abiad Mohammad
Published: July 2024

This study investigates the role of Human Resources (HR) strategies and technology integration in enhancing faculty satisfaction and performance at Kuwait's private higher education institutions (HEIs) amidst perceived institutional challenges. It investigates three key factors: technology use in performance evaluation, human resources' role in adapting to global educational shifts, and faculty views on institutional challenges. By surveying 60 faculty members and employing statistical techniques to investigate the relationships between these variables and faculty satisfaction, significant correlations were found between faculty satisfaction, technology integration, and HR's strategic initiatives. Statistical analysis revealed no significant impact of perceived institutional challenges on faculty satisfaction; this unexpected result suggests that faculty satisfaction within the examined HEIs may be more directly influenced by proactive technology and HR strategies than by the challenges these institutions face. Ultimately, the research proposes a new paradigm for HR in the educational sector, emphasizing the necessity of a dynamic and strategic HR function to achieve sustainable excellence and create an environment where faculty members feel valued, supported, and motivated. This approach is essential for navigating the challenges of a VUCA (Volatile, Uncertain, Complex, Ambiguous) world, suggesting further research to investigate additional factors influencing faculty satisfaction and to refine the proposed model.
Impact of European Projects on Human Resources
Authors: Croitoru Ionuț Marius , Dobrescu Răzvan Mihai , Spiridon Cosmin Alexandru
Published: July 2024

In the knowledge-based economy, effective public policies and programs that enhance the quality of human capital are an essential requirement for maintaining the competitiveness of the European economy on a global scale. As regional disparities remain to this day, the Structural Funds aim to promote convergence by improving the economic efficiency of the poorest states. It is normal to analyze and determine the effect that European funding has on the development of human capital in those regions. In order to emphasize the significance of European funding and the relationship between the level of support offered through the implementation of European projects and the development of human capital, we have carried out a bibliometric study of the data available in the WOS database. The 479 scientific articles were extracted using the tag "impact of European projects on human resources" by applying specific filters and keywords. The searches were distributed by year, by country, by affiliated institutions, and by the highest word density of the reviewed articles.

The stages of the investigation method were based on the PRISMA Statements methodology. The conclusions of the article are a starting point for future analyzes regarding the impact of European funds on human resources, considering that the end of the second programming period of the structural funds accessed directly by Romania was 2023.

Our findings show the existence of 4 separate directions of analysis and substantiation of the results.: cluster 1 contains the impact of European funding on the development of human resources; cluster 2 contains systems for distribution, prioritization and selection of potential beneficiaries; cluster 3 contains references to the specific policies of the European Union, and cluster 4 contains articles that analyze models for the allocation, management and evaluation of European funds. For the specific analysis of a certain field of research, we can have as a starting point a keyword found in the 4 clusters with the links within the clusters and between the clusters to find new topics of interest, new interdisciplinary correlations and new methods of approach.
Exploring Sustainable Clothing Consumption in Middle-Income Countries: A case study of Romanian consumers
Authors: Cosma Anastasia
Published: July 2024

The overconsumption of consumers under today’s increasingly scarce natural resources has overwhelmed the textile industry in middle-income countries, such as Romania. It is becoming more and more essential to encourage sustainable clothing consumption behaviors, such as purchasing recyclable clothes. Notwithstanding, there is a limited number of studies trying to understand the intrinsic factors that motivate consumers’ purchase intention toward sustainable clothes in middle-income countries. Moreover, the effect of consumers’ environmental knowledge on determining their purchase intention of sustainable clothes remains understudied. Consequently, the purpose of this paper is to make a significant contribution to the sustainable consumption literature by providing a consolidated framework that explores the behavioral factors inclining Romanian consumers’ purchase intention towards sustainable clothes. The foundation of this study combines consumers’ altruistic value orientations and the theory of planned behavior. The partial least squares path modeling procedure was used to analyze the data of 1,018 Romanian respondents. The findings of this study show that altruistic value orientation, subjective norms, and sustainable attitudes have a positive effect on Romanian consumers’ purchase intention of sustainable clothing. Thus, these insights provide essential practical implications of advocating for the consumption of sustainable clothes along with useful guidelines for practitioners in the textile industry among middle-income countries, especially in Romania, to reduce overconsumption.
Analyzing the Abandonment Rates in Romanian HEIs
Authors: Simion Petronela Cristina , Popescu Mirona Ana Maria , Costea-Marcu Iustina-Cristina , Moiceanu Georgiana
Published: July 2024

The advancement of technology, the changing and competitive business environment has an impact also on higher education. Potential students are faced with a multitude of choices, without always having the proper guidance to choose a path that is suitable for each of them. Their sometimes-uninformed decision, along with other factors may lead to the phenomenon of dropout. This has a negative impact on universities environment in terms of programs, to society and economy, all being linked in a way. The issue of dropout in higher education is a complex one, a challenging one these days and therefore research on this subject to address it properly are essential. In this article it is presented the current situation on Romanian universities and their dropout rates. Also, an analysis of scientific papers and sources is carried out to identify and document the key factors that contribute to the student’s choice of abandoning their university studies.
Mapping the Field of Change Management – A Bibliometric Analysis Using Vosviewer
Authors: Năstase Marian , Tîrnovanu Andrei Constantin , Șișu Julia Anamaria , Obreja Mircea-Mihai
Published: July 2024

Considering the difficult and dynamic environment that businesses operate currently, this is one of the most important strategic components of achieving organizational success. Change management leads to competitive advantages. Change management is among the subjects that are explored most frequently from an organizational standpoint. Through bibliometric analysis based on data taken from the Web of Science database and VOSviewer software, the paper aims to present an overall insight on this topic and observe the common opinion by academic environment. This paper revealed that 180 unique articles were published in Web of Science in a short period (2020-2024). It also aims to identify the main topics that assembled the studies on change management, determine the most significant clusters and a research trend in this area. Change is unavoidable, and business leaders need to understand the elements influencing it in order to effectively manage a change process.
Revolutionizing Finance: Insights on the Impact of Automation
Authors: Bostan Andreea-Izabela , Dragomirescu Oana-Alexandra
Published: July 2024

This article delves into the transformative impact of integrating SAP and Robotic Process Automation (RPA) in the realm of Finance. As organizations strive for greater efficiency, accuracy, and agility in their financial operations, solutions such as SAP and RPA emerge as a powerful solution. The article provides an in-depth analysis of how these technologies complement each other, offering a set of different perspectives provided by 13 Subject Matter Experts during an interview. The study begins by outlining the importance of using Artificial Intelligence in Finance, with a focus on the demonstrated benefits and potential areas that are suitable for this technology. It is also highlighted what Financial areas could be considered candidates for automation of processes, with a focus on five main topics. Subsequently, the article investigates the role of Robotic Process Automation and the key features of SAP, in automating repetitive, rule-based tasks within financial processes. Furthermore, through real-world case studies and examples provided by people with work experience in this field, the article provides insights into the practical applications of SAP and RPA, witnessing the improvements in operational efficiency, data accuracy, and compliance. The discussion explores the evolving landscape of finance in the face of digital transformation, emphasizing the following topics: understanding the need of automation, prerequisites needed in Financial processes, tools required, data security, and future prospects.
Overcoming the Challenges of Digitalization. A Study Case Based on DESI and EIBIS
Authors: Dumitra Edi-Cristian
Published: July 2024

In the present days, the business environment faces one important wave in its development, therefore due to the wave of rapid technological advancements, the digital era that is currently reshaping behaviour, habits, and trends, stands as a testament to the necessity of innovation and adaptation of the latest digital technologies. At first glance, the benefits of digitalization are well recognized, such as: increasing connectivity as a catalyst for communication and collaboration while increasing access to information. Hence, both businesses and individuals find themselves empowered by the great benefits of the digital era, presented as a world in which the barriers determined by time and space are no longer an issue, being transcended by the implantation of the latest digital technologies. Therefore, it is necessary to inspect the corelations between the two important indexes provided by the European database, such as DESI and EIBIS, in order to identify how the score of DESI can influence directly, or not, the business environment’s investment in digital technologies, both on single technologies and multiple technologies, taking into account the usage of the emergent digital technologies, such as: BigData, AI and Clouds. The correlations will provide a better understanding of the role of digitalization in developing the economic environment of a state, or at a bigger image, of the European Union’s business environment.
The Impact of Cloud Systems on Enhancing Organizational Performance through Innovative Business Models in the Digitalization Era
Authors: Tohanean Dragoș , Toma Sorin-George
Published: July 2024

Information technology has massively transformed the world of business over the past fifty years - first individual functional areas within companies (“first wave”), later increasingly also cross-divisional value-added processes and trade (“second wave”), advent of the internet and the World Wide Web marked a transformative shift in how information is accessed, shared, and distributed (“third wave”), mobile computing and smartphone (“fourth wave”) and cloud computing that has emerged as a paradigm for delivering computing resources and services over the internet on-demand, providing scalability, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness (“fifth wave”).

This paper investigates the transformative impact of cloud systems on increasing organizational performance through innovative business models in the age of digitalization. By employing a mixed methods approach, the study integrates qualitative and quantitative techniques to provide a comprehensive understanding of the research phenomenon.
The Impact of Digitalization on the Economic Performance of SMEs in the European Union: A 2022 Analysis
Authors: Verdeş Cătălin-Alexandru , Mironescu Alexandra-Andreea , Mazăre Mădălina
Published: July 2024

This study embarks on an empirical examination of the relationship between digitalization intensity and economic performance among Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) within the European Union (EU) in 2022. Utilizing data from European Commission, the research specifically compares the “SMEs with at least a basic level of digital intensity” and the “Proportion of total SME value added for all industries”. The aim is to unravel the potential correlation between digital integration in SMEs and their contribution to the economy, measured in terms of value added. The methodology encompasses a quantitative approach, involving the collection of relevant data across EU member states. The study first applies descriptive statistics to summarize the data and then conducts a correlation analysis. In preparing the data for analysis, we adjusted the value-added figures by the number of SMEs to derive a value-added per SME metric, facilitating a more accurate and comparable evaluation across countries with varying numbers of SMEs.Our preliminary analysis reveals significant variations in digital intensity among SMEs across different EU countries. The core of the analysis investigates whether higher levels of digital adoption correlate with an increased economic output per SME. This study is particularly relevant in the context of the EU’s digital single market strategy and the increasing emphasis on digital transformation in the business sector. The findings of this study are expected to contribute to the understanding of the digital economy’s impact on SMEs, providing valuable insights for policymakers and business leaders.
Synthesis and Multifaceted Exploration of 4-Phenylpiperidin-4-ol Substituted Pyrazole: Photophysical Insights with Biological Activity
Authors: Al-Hazmi Ghaferah H. , Marrakkur Vidyagayatri , Naik Lohit , Refat Moamen S.
Published: June 2024

In this study, we successfully synthesized a pyrazole derivative, specifically 4-phenylpiperidin-4-ol substituted pyrazole (CHP), through the reaction of Grignard reagents in combination with pyrazole. This newly synthesized molecule was subjected to a comprehensive evaluation for both its photophysical and biological applications. Notably, CHP exhibited promising invitro antifungal and antibacterial activities, primarily attributed to the presence of the 4-phenylpiperidin-4-ol moiety and resulting component contributed to an enhanced absorption rate of lipids, thereby improving the pharmacological activity of CHP. This correlation between structure and function was further supported by the outcomes of structure-activity relationship studies. Additionally, we conducted in silico studies to examine the molecular interactions of the synthesized molecule with key proteins, including DNA Gyrase, Lanosterol 14 α-demethylase, and KEAP1-NRF2. The results unveiled robust binding interactions at specific sites within these proteins, indicating potential therapeutic relevance. Furthermore, the photophysical properties of the synthesized compounds were thoroughly investigated using the ab-initio technique. This involved the determination of ground state optimization and HOMO-LUMO energy levels, all calculated with the DFT-B3LYP-6-31G(d) basis set. The assessment of the theoretically estimated HOMO-LUMO value provided insights into the global chemical reactivity descriptors, revealing that the synthesized molecule boasts a highly electronegative and electrophilic index. Taken together, our findings suggest that pyrazole derivatives with 4-phenylpiperidin-4-ol substitutions exhibit promising applications in both photophysical and biological contexts.
From radiobiology to radiotherapy: dose homogeneity in cells after alpha irradiation in measurements and Monte Carlo simulations
Authors: Filipek Mateusz , Pszczółkowska-Kępa Beata , Kociński Bartłomiej , Senkowska Marta , Szefliński Zygmunt , Brzozowska Beata
Published: June 2024

Introduction: Proton radiotherapy offers an advantage in sparing healthy tissue compared to photon therapy due to the specific interaction of protons with the patient’s body. In radiobiological experiments, alpha sources are commonly used instead of proton accelerators for convenience, but ensuring a uniform dose distribution is challenging. Properly designing the cell irradiation setup is crucial to reliably measure the average cellular response in such experiments. The objective of this research is to underscore the importance of dosimetric validation in radiobiological investigations. While Monte Carlo (MC) simulations offer valuable insights, their accuracy needs experimental confirmation. Once consistent results are obtained, the reliance on simulations becomes viable, as they are more efficient and less cumbersome compared to experimental procedures.

Material and methods: The simulations are performed with three MC code-based tools: Geant4-DNA, GATE, and SRIM to model the alpha radiation source and calculate dose distributions for various cell irradiation scenarios. Dosimetric verification of the experimental setup containing a 241Am source is performed using radiochromic films. Additionally, a clonogenic cell survival assay is carried out for the DU145 cell line.

Results: The study introduces a novel source simulation model derived from dosimetric measurements. The comparison between dosimetric results obtained with simulations and measured experimentally yields a gamma (3%/3mm) parameter value exceeding 99%. Furthermore, the LQ model parameters fitted to survival data of DU145 cells irradiated with particles emitted from 241Am source demonstrate consistency with previously published findings.

Conclusions: Radiobiological experiments investigate cellular responses to various irradiation scenarios. Challenges arise with densely ionizing radiation used in clinical practice, particularly in ensuring uniform dose delivery for reliable experiments. MC codes aid in simulating dose distribution and designing irradiation systems for consistent cell treatment. However, experimental validation is essential before relying on simulation results. Once confirmed, these results offer a cost-effective and time-efficient approach to planning radiobiological experiments compared to traditional laboratory work.
Radiological evaluation of mandibular alveolar reconstruction after retained third molar removal procedures using autogenous dentin matrix (ADM)
Authors: Kubaszek Bartłomiej , Kiełboń Agnieszka , Kasprzyk-Kucewicz Teresa , Starosta Martin , Krynicki Paweł , Morawiec Tadeusz
Published: June 2024

Introduction: Bone regeneration materials are often used in dental surgery procedures. At present, we have the possibility to use materials from different groups due to the way they are obtained. The gold standard still remains the use of autogenous bone substitute material due to its osteogenic, osteoinductive and osteoconductive properties. The surgical removal of the third retained tooth is one of the most common procedures performed in dental surgery. As a result of such a procedure, bone tissue atrophy occurs. In order to avoid the formation of a bone defect on the distal surface of the second molar, an augmentation method using an autogenous dentin matrix can be used in such procedures.

Material and methods: Procedures for bilateral removal of retained third molars were performed in 15 patients. On one side, augmentation was performed with an autogenous dentin matrix obtained by grinding and preparing the extracted retained tooth (study group). On the opposite side, the bone defect was left to heal spontaneously (control group). After 6 months, the degree of bone regeneration was compared on the basis of bone density testing and the size of the resulting bone defect on the distal side was compared on the basis of radiographic examination.

Results: Analysis of the obtained material showed significant differences in healing after treatments with autogenous dentin matrix. Thus, the use of an autogenous dentin matrix made it possible to obtain a completely regenerated bone defect.

Conclusions: This procedure seems to be useful for bone regeneration after the removal of the third molar.
Modelling of Undular Jump Characteristics
Authors: Riabenko Oleksandr , Nowak Petr , Bilkova Eva , Halych Oksana
Published: June 2024

The article provides concise details about a hydraulic phenomenon known as the undular jump, that occurs under different conditions within different hydraulic constructions and can negatively influence on their operation and conditions. Therefore, the methods of modelling undular jump characteristics using physical and mathematical model are presented. Based on physical model of undular jump, the experimental data were obtained. Moreover, three mathematical models were considered and analyzed. The article gives the comparison of experimental data and data obtained by mathematical models. The advantages and disadvantages of considered mathematical models were specified. The novelty of work was in developing and improving mathematical model with taking into account the energy losses that are allowed to obtain the characteristics of undular jump with high accuracy.
Mapping of Energy Consumption for Cooling – Assessment of the Cooling Demand Potential for the City of Riga
Authors: Behmane Evelina , Pakere Ieva
Published: June 2024

Considering the global increase in mean air temperature and society’s demand for a comfortable indoor microclimate, cooling solutions in buildings will play an essential role in achieving global climate goals. Researchers estimate that global energy consumption will be significantly affected by the energy required for cooling. Assessment of cooling demand potential is an essential step to further analyse cooling options for buildings in certain areas. Within the framework of this study, mapping of energy consumption for cooling in the city of Riga (Latvia) is carried out. Mapping allows to assess the demand in a spatial perspective, identifying areas with a denser energy demand indicator, and, accordingly, a higher potential for implementation of district cooling and this method can be used in other countries and cities as well. Energy consumption for cooling at the building level was calculated and visualized using cadastral data and building energy certificate data. The results show that the potential energy consumption for cooling in the city of Riga can reach up to 397 GWh per year and the largest proportion of energy consumption for cooling is predicted in the category of multi – apartment buildings (up to 155 GWh per year), highlighting the need to pay particular attention how cooling demand is addressed in residential building sector. Results can be further used to evaluate the technical and economic feasibility of the district cooling implementation in parts of the city.
Informal learning in new ways of working
Authors: Rozkwitalska-Welenc Małgorzata
Published: June 2024

The recent spread of new ways of working (NWW), e.g., telecommuting, hybrid work arrangements, and remote work, has redefined traditional workplace structures. This paper explores the implications of NWW on workplace informal learning through facilitating or hindering learning conditions present in new workplaces. The 3P model of learning guides the analysis. This review paper delves into the conditions facilitating or hindering informal learning in NWW, contrasting recent publications reporting empirical findings. It applies a narrative review method for literature analysis and the 3P learning model as a conceptual tool to infer conclusions.

Informal learning is recognized in the literature as a vital tool for enhancing employee competencies, contributing to organizational flexibility, and fostering individual employability and career development. However, NWW creates new workplaces that shape informal learning dynamics within organizations. The paper portrays a double-edged sword aspect of new workplaces as sites for informal learning, emphasizing a need for developing in-depth research on the phenomenon.

The paper addresses the need for a detailed understanding of new workplaces as learning environments and compares findings from recent studies on informal learning in NWW. Based on the narrative review, the author suggests that the field’s evolution depends on embracing diversity in samples, expanding the scope of studies, refining research methodologies, and adopting a holistic perspective.
A Systematic Literature Review of ERP and RFID Implementation in Supply Chain Management
Authors: Pontoh Grace T. , Indrijawati Aini , Selvi Fifi , Ningsih Lasri , Putri Dinda Reskiana
Published: June 2024

The integration of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) and Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) in Supply Chain Management (SCM) significantly enhances supply chain efficiency and effectiveness. ERP systems enable companies to optimize inventory and production management, while RFID technology facilitates precise tracking of products and raw materials, thereby improving production process efficiency. This research aims to systematically review the existing literature on implementing ERP and RFID technologies in SCM and their interconnected roles. Utilizing the Systematic Literature Review (SLR) methodology, the study highlights the crucial impact of ERP and RFID on supply chain performance efficiency. The findings indicate that ERP implementation in SCM offers numerous benefits, which is vital in boosting company efficiency, effectiveness, and overall performance. Additionally, integrating ERP and RFID with technologies like blockchain and cloud computing can further optimize supply chain management processes, providing even greater advantages.
Deciphering Sustainable Growth: The Influence of Corporate Financial Metrics on SGR and Stock Returns
Authors: Guliyev Taghi , Muzaffarov Murad
Published: June 2024

In a diligent quest for outperformance in the market, the paper will delve into the complex dynamics of the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) and stock prices. According to Higgins’ theory, the SGR is the maximum growth attainable by a company that does not require external funds. It employs Fixed Effects Models and analyses data from 73 major companies in the S&P 500 from 2021 to 2023. The study particularly examines how the factors, including tax and interest burdens, EBIT margin, asset turnover, financial leverage, and retention rate, help shape the SGR after COVID. Most importantly, this study underscores that return on equity (ROE) dominates the effect on SGR, thus stating that profitability and effective equity management are the keys to organizational sustainable growth. Therefore, the influence of the retention rate appears to be less impactful. The findings also challenge the traditional notion whereby long-term growth ensures long-term stock returns, hence more valuable for recommendations in light of this horizon for financial managers and investors, in refining their strategic and investment decisions.
Apakah Psychological Contract Memengaruhi Safety Behavior? Kajian pada Karyawan di Industri Kelapa Sawit
Authors: Juniarly Amalia , Eprisa Amelia Sesariska
Published: June 2024

Data menunjukkan tingginya angka kecelakaan kerja banyak dialami oleh karyawan yang bekerja di industri kelapa sawit. Hal ini mengindikasikan kurangnya pengamalan safety behaviour karyawan pada perusahaan perkebunan tersebut. Psychological contract adalah salah satu faktor yang mempengaruhi safety behavior. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk melihat pengaruh psychological contract terhadap safety behaviour pada karyawan di industri kelapa sawit. Penelitian ini melibatkan 229 karyawan pemanen di industri kelapa sawit. Teknik sampling pada penelitian ini adalah teknik purposive sampling. Skala yang digunakan adalah skala safety behaviour dan psychological contract. Data dianalisis dengan dengan analisis regresi linear sederhana yang menunjukkan bahwa hipotesa penelitian diterima. Psychological contract memiliki pengaruh yang signifikan terhadap safety behaviour (R2 = 0.414; F (1, 228) = 160,476; p < 0,05) pada karyawan industri kelapa sawit. Hal ini menunjukkan pentingnya psychological contract untuk menurunkan angka kecelakaan kerja karyawan Perkebunan.
Academic Self Efficacy and Student Academic Stress in the Pandemic Transition Period
Authors: Herviolita Ray Shafa  , Brebahama Alabanyo
Published: June 2024

The first year of college is a transition period from secondary education to higher education. The demand to be an independent learner, as well as the transition from distance learning to face-to-face meetings, can certainly cause academic stress. On the other hand, some factors influence the extent to which students can survive in the face of stress, one of which is self-efficacy. This research aims to look at the relationship between academic self-efficacy and academic stress in first-year students during the pandemic transition period using quantitative methods. The total number of participants in this research was 210 active first-year students. The research instruments used were the Academic Self-Efficacy Scale and the Academic Stress Inventory. The results of research using Spearman's rho correlation test technique show that the variables academic self-efficacy and academic stress (rs = -.667, p < .001) have a significant negative correlation. Thus, the higher the academic self-efficacy, the lower the academic stress experienced by students.