bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Concepts of Ethics to Engage the Older Person with the Community
Authors: Naughton Mary McDonnell 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
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

Abstract
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.
Challenges for Biomass Production in the Context of an Expansion of Biogas Plants
Authors: Bucur Camelia Gabriela 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
The evolution of European states is based on access to information and knowledge, as well as innovative methods. Thus, the European states began to be more and more aware of the fact that protecting the environment and preventing the destruction of ecosystems are the key elements for progress. Current thinking is based on the continuous transformation of resources towards a finished product. Green energy has become a subject of major importance for all countries of the world and they are constantly trying to find new methods of its production, as well as the constant improvement of existing methods. Part of this market for energy produced from renewable resources is biogas. Biogas is produced by fermenting organic waste of vegetable or animal origin in the absence of oxygen. Biogas consists of methane gas and carbon dioxide. It can be used like any other fuel, having the same properties. Biogas can feed a mini cogeneration plant and simultaneously produce heat, hot water and electricity. This renewable energy is considered CO2-neutral and is an environmentally friendly alternative as a wide variety of residues can be transformed into biogas. For most countries with highly developed agriculture, this alternative can be an affordable option in terms of cost, efficiency and return on investment in the medium and long term. Speaking in the short term, this is difficult to evaluate, given all the factors involved in the process: from inputs to outputs. The perspectives in this sense seem to be quite advantageous if we look at the whole, namely, the decarbonization at the European level, but the legislative and logistical barriers make the situation more and more complex. The legislation regarding biogas production is adapted to the economic-social context of each country, but the entire logistics part is the responsibility of the producer. Here comes a major problem for many potential producers: "how, when and how much" must be done for a biogas station to operate constantly, without interruptions from a logistical point of view. This article aims to find solutions for the flow of raw materials for potential investors in this renewable energy segment to be as cost efficient as possible and at the same time to provide predictability in production. The methodology of this paper is based on a comparative analysis of studies and indicators. The literature in this field is becoming more and more extensive, as interest in this direction has been growing recently. This paper aims to analyze whether this direction towards biogas can be the optimal option for most European countries and the key to a sustainable energy source.
Identification and Analysis of Main Drivers and Barriers to the Promotion of PPAs for Green Energy
Authors: Niculescu Elena , Tantau Adrian 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
With the current climate change, decarbonization is essential to the global energy transition. In this regard many instruments have been created or developed, Power Purchase Agreements, as a direct legal contract between a power provider and a power buyer, being one of the most popular instruments to increase the use of renewable energy. But sometimes, Power Purchase Agreements get violated due to the elements that constrain and prevent its development and implementation. This situation only brings a certain insecurity to the PPA, and the result is nothing other than to compromise its true role and to distance it from the achievement of the objectives established in its contents. The main goal of this research is to identify and analyze the main drivers and barriers which constrain or prevent the development and implementation of Power Purchase Agreements as a tool for promoting green energy. For this research the comparative analysis, survey based on questionnaires, Spearman’s correlation matrix and IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows are used. The article reduces the gap among the respondents' opinion regarding the Power Purchase Agreements and their involvement in the implementation and development of these contracts, roughly establishing the level where the PPA is located in the transition to green energy. The results suggest that Power Purchase Agreements play a major role in the renewable energy market and they will have a positive impact in what it means the transition to green energy and the achievement of climate neutrality. Therefore, although Romania is a country rich in energy resources that allow the achievement of climate neutrality, it is necessary to take additional measures to attract investors, whose investments will be crucial in the development of energy from renewable energy sources, the three Power Purchase Agreements concluded up to now, regardless they represent a gratifying step, they are not enough to talk about a real Power Purchase Agreement market.
“Green” Hydrogen Products and Their Economic End-Uses: A Statistical Perspective
Authors: Ocenic Elena 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Mitigation of greenhouse gasses heightens attention on hydrogen as a crucial element in the global energy transition, while combating climate change. Building on previous analyses of hydrogen projects compiled by the International Energy Agency (IEA), this paper provides an updated and comprehensive analysis of this database while delving deeper into the intricacies of hydrogen products and their economic end-uses. Given the availability of alternative technologies in some sectors, it is crucial to understand the nuances of hydrogen projects, particularly in "hard-to-decarbonize" or "hard-to-abate" sectors such as iron and steelmaking, where the key benefit of using green hydrogen is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the process and energy use. Therefore, this paper’s objective is to provide insights into the distribution, technologies, and trends of hydrogen projects produced with renewable power, while unraveling the diverse products of these projects and identify the sectors benefiting most from them. Employing a rigorous statistical data analysis, a dataset encompassing approximately 2000 hydrogen projects worldwide is scrutinized. These questions guide the investigation: a) What is the distribution of hydrogen projects across different countries globally? b) What are the key trends in technology choice over time? c) What are the key trends of hydrogen projects using renewable energy? d) What are the primary products of green hydrogen projects? e) Which end-use sectors are benefiting from the “green” hydrogen products the most? The findings reveal a spectrum of internationally pursued hydrogen-derived products, ranging from hydrogen to ammonia and beyond. Moreover, they provide insights into industries that stand to gain from innovation, including mobility, ammonia production and other industrial applications. This paper significantly contributes to the understanding of “green” hydrogen products, and their end-uses. Governments and businesses can leverage this knowledge to make informed policy and investment decisions in a rapidly evolving market.
Energy Transition: The Impact of Increasing Energy Production from Renewable Sources on the Commercial Optimization Process of Conventional Power Generation Assets
Authors: Pamfile Lucian V. 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Changing the way electricity is produced, as part of the energy transition process, brings new challenges to the energy industry and in particular to the power generation practices. The switch from energy systems based on fossil fuels to generation technologies based on renewable sources is proving to be much more complex than expected. Multiple recent studies have shown that the intermittency in renewable production processes is putting pressure on the system and increasing balancing and maintenance costs of the grid, calling for an efficient management of the electricity produced. Therefore, a complete phase-out of conventional power generation units (e.g. coal, gas and nuclear) is still difficult to imagine in practice, mainly because of their role in balancing the system during the hours when renewables are not available (e.g. no wind, no sun or reduced hydraulicity). From the perspective of technical and commercial management aspects, the operation of conventional assets involves the consideration of multiple constraints (such as a longer operating time before they are shut down, or a longer preparation time before they can be restarted) in order to avoid financial loss and further damages. Therefore, the aim of this is to: 1. study the impact brought by the large installed capacity of renewable assets on the energy system; 2. analyse the options for gradual phase-out of conventional assets, from the perspective of system stability; 3. draw conclusions on how the commercial optimization of the production assets should develop as the energy transition advances. The novelty of this paper lies in the fact that it makes a business study of this transition process, which does not really exist yet, and case and simulation studies, along with statistical and time series analysis were used as a methodological approach for the research.
How Should a Virtual University Be Managed? A Theoretical Approach
Authors: Comșa Viorica 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
The concept of a virtual university (VU) has grown in popularity among academics. It has been adopted by numerous traditional universities (TU) that got familiar with virtual education since spring 2020, triggered by the pandemic context. Today, university decision-makers should see VU as more than just an anchor, a mechanism to ensure the continuity of the educational process in grave conditions, or a model for distance online education through intense use of information technology (IT). This paper's research shows that a conceptual model of a virtual university (MVU) should be seen as a complex organization with a structure of roles held by people who interact in processes to provide products and services to students, researchers, and other learners in a virtual environment, supported by IT resources. The study aims to highlight management process (MP) on MVU. It analyzes and interprets the MP for an organization, followed by universities. This theoretical approach can address university's tactical management needs from the perspective of transition or adoption of MVU and understanding what it means to manage a VU. The presented way of managing VUs offers unique support for decisions of acceptance within the academic and administrative community in Romania to integrate and offer virtual education.
Farm Carbon Footprint Measurement Frameworks Based on the Digitization and Environmental Sustainability Paradigm
Authors: Pătărlăgeanu Simona Roxana , Constantin Marius , Dinu Mihai , Petrescu Irina Elena , Deaconu Elena Mădălina 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
The use of digital technology in agriculture, such as sensors, satellites, and artificial intelligence, for developing sustainable agriculture and controlling the impacts of climate change, has been enhanced under the European Green Deal. Given the environmental exigencies, the agricultural sector must adapt to new technologies that ensure the sustainable development of the whole agri-food sector. This paper emphasizes the importance of measuring carbon footprints in agriculture as a tool for further improving the sustainability of the sector. Specifically, the research addresses the importance of sustainable technologies and practices, including agriculture, circular economy, and conservation agriculture, which play an important role in reducing carbon emissions from the agricultural sector. Thus, in the framework of the European Green Deal and digitalization, a bibliographic analysis was carried out using the Web of Science database to review the scientific interest on carbon footprint generated by farms. The aim of the paper is to tackle the significance given by the scientific community on the carbon footprint of farms in order to enhance the development of a comprehensive set of measures that can incorporate the sector’s social and environmental responsibility, and ensure further the right path towards a sustainable future without affecting the profitability of the small farmers.
Proposal of a Gender Balance Index: An instrument for Enhancing Equality in Corporate Management Structures
Authors: Nicolae Iuliana , Volosevici Dana , Isbasoiu Gheorghe Dan 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
The persistent underrepresentation of women in decision-making roles across various levels of management within companies is a critical issue that has garnered significant attention in both academic and professional circles. Despite numerous legislative efforts and policy initiatives aimed at promoting gender equality in the workplace, women continue to face substantial barriers to accessing leadership positions. These challenges are not confined to specific sectors or company sizes; they are pervasive, affecting organizations worldwide. This paper proposes a novel instrument designed to measure women's participation in decision-making across all levels of management in a company. The versatility of this tool allows for its application across a broad spectrum of industries and organizational structures, making it a valuable asset for any company committed to advancing gender equality within its ranks.
The proposed instrument seeks to address a gap in the current methodologies used to assess gender diversity and inclusion in leadership roles. By providing a comprehensive framework for evaluating women's representation in decision-making positions, this tool not only highlights areas where disparities exist but also facilitates the tracking of progress over time. Its implementation can serve as a cornerstone for developing targeted strategies aimed at eliminating barriers to women's advancement and fostering a more inclusive corporate culture.
In contributing to the amelioration of women's situation regarding access to decision-making in companies, this instrument aligns with broader efforts to achieve gender equality. It not only aids companies in complying with legal requirements and societal expectations but also enhances their competitiveness and innovation by leveraging the full potential of a diverse workforce. Through its widespread adoption, this tool has the potential to catalyze significant shifts in how companies approach gender diversity and inclusion, marking a critical step towards the equitable representation of women in leadership across the corporate landscape.
The Role of Climate Change, Employment, Government Expenditure, and Imports on the Value of Agricultural Production in Romania
Authors: Zaharia Alina , Shonkwiler Vanessa P. , Mocanu Steliana , Tudorache Claudiu 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Agricultural production is important for ensuring food security, supporting many activities of society and building strong trade economy of a country, but can be slightly influenced by numerous factors. Even if exists a lot of studies that analyze the influencing factors of agricultural production in terms of value, investments, climate change, credits, costs of energy and more, in the literature can be observed a research gap regarding the relation between emissions or mean weekly hours actually worked per employed person and value of agricultural production. The identified gap in the specialty literature was covered in this paper. The present paper aims to analyze a series of factors that influence the value of agricultural production, like: climate change, employment, government expenditure and imports, after discussing the theoretical framework about the subject. The methodological approach is based on using several linear regressions, tested with the EViews software. One of the main findings indicates the existence of relationships between both the change of imports and the change of emissions with the value of agricultural production in Romania during 1995-2021. Also, another result indicates a negative influence of temperature change on the value of agricultural production, showing once again that climate change does negatively impact agricultural output and, thus, the sustainable development of Romania. This study could be used further by policy makers to understand on which drivers should act on in developing sustainable policies for Romanian agriculture.
AR Technology Potential for Facilitating Access to Advanced Education for Students with ASD
Authors: Bejinaru Ruxandra , Toma Marian-Vlăduț 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Facilitating access to advanced education and research is the mission of a proactive and future-oriented university. The university must also direct its attention to categories with disabilities such as students with ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorders). For this purpose, Augmented Reality (AR) can be used through applications that offer different types of support, as well as learning robotization processes. Students with ASD have diverse intellectual potential and can significantly contribute to scientific progress. It is important that universities recognize the intellectual potential and talent of students with ASD and provide appropriate support and accessibility to develop their skills and achieve their academic and research performance. Throughout this paper, we aimed to point out aspects of critical importance from these categories: conceptual and practical evolution, influencing factors, advantages and difficulties, perspectives but also risks regarding the lack of action in this direction. This work integrates qualitative literature review research with empirical research. The literature analysis section highlights the extent to which universities provide adaptation and orientation facilities in new spaces, taking into account the difficulty of people with ASD to adjust to unfamiliar spaces. We will present, both based on the literature and from the practice of the field at a global level, the technologies and platforms used in the development of AR applications for orientation in space. The research conclusions have an impact towards at least three directions: 1. Scientific impact, respectively enriching the specialized literature with new perspectives transmitted in a clear, concise and targeted manner; 2. Applicative impact, increasing the potential of implementing innovations in this field; as well as 3. Informative impact on the general public, which contributes to broadening the spectrum of knowledge but also to strengthening the image in the local community of the efforts made by researchers in this revolutionary field of AR.