bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Microbial Uricase and its Unique Potential Applications
Authors: Elbanna Khaled , Alshareef Atheer , Neyaz Leena A. , El-Readi Mahmoud Z. , Abulreesh Hussein H. 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
The uricase enzyme yields allantoin, hydrogen peroxide, and carbon dioxide by catalyzing the oxidative opening of the purine ring in the urate pathway. This enzyme is important for biochemical diagnosis and reduces toxic urate accumulation during various diseases (hyperuricemia, gout, and bedwetting). Direct urate oxidase injection is recommended in renal complications-associated gout and to prevent chemotherapy-linked hyperuricemia disorders. Thus, uricase is a promising enzyme with diverse applications in medicine. Microbial production of uricase is featured by high growth rates, cost-effective bioprocessing, and easy optimization of the medium. Microbes produce the enzyme extracellular or intracellular. Extracellular uricase is preferred for biotechnological applications as it minimizes time, effort, and purification processes. This review provides insights into uricase-producing microbes, bacterial uric acid degradation pathways, degrading enzymes, and uricase-encoding genes.
Furthermore, aspects influencing the microorganisms’ production of the uricase enzyme, its activity, and its purification procedure are also emphasized. Cell disruption is mandatory for intercellular uricase production, which elevates production costs. Therefore, extracellular uricase-producing microbial strains should be investigated, and production factors should be optimized. Future techniques for obtaining extracellular enzymes should feature reduced time and effort, as well as a simple purification methodology. Furthermore, uricase gene-carrying recombinant probiotic microorganisms could become an effective tool for gout treatment.
Effect of Reproductive System Dysbiosis on the Course of Pregnancy
Authors: Piekarz Karolina , Macura Barbara , Kiecka Aneta 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
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

Abstract

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

Abstract

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

Abstract

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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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