Renewable energy strategy analysis in relation to environmental pollution for BRICS, G7, and EU countries by using a machine learning framework and panel data analysis

The present research uses machine learning, panel data and time series prediction and forecasting techniques to establish a framework between a series of renewable energy and environmental pollution parameters, considering data for BRICS, G7, and EU countries, which can serve as a tool for optimizing the policy strategy in the sustainable energy production sector. The results indicates that XGBoost model for predicting the renewable energy production capacity reveals the highest feature importance among independent variables is associated with the gas consumption parameter in the case of G7, oil consumption for EU block and GHG emissions for BRICS, respectively. Furthermore, the generalized additive model (GAM) predictions for the EU block reveal the scenario of relatively constant renewable energy capacity if gas consumption increases, while oil consumption increases determine an increase in renewable energy capacity until a kick point, followed by a decrease. The GAM models for G7 revealed the scenario of an upward trend of renewable energy production capacity, as gas consumption increases and renewable energy production capacity decreases while oil consumption increases. In the case of the BRICS geopolitical block, the prediction scenario reveals that, in time, an increase in gas consumption generates an increase in renewable energy production capacity. The PCA emphasizes that renewable energy production capacity and GHG, respectively CO2 emissions, are highly correlated and are integrated into the first component, which explains more than 60% of the variance. The resulting models represent a good prediction capacity and reveal specific peculiarities for each analyzed geopolitical block. The prediction models conclude that the EU economic growth scenario is based on fossil fuel energy sources during the first development stage, followed by a shift to renewable energy sources once it reaches a kick point, during the second development stage. The decrease in renewable energy production capacity when oil consumption increases indicates that fossil fuels are in trend within the G7 economy. In the case of BRICS, it is assumed that gas consumption appears because of increasing the industrial capacity, followed by the increase of economic sustainability, respectively. In addition, the generalized additive models emphasize evolution scenarios with different peculiarities, specific for each analyzed geopolitical block

In Vivo Evaluation of Biocompatibility of Three Biomaterials Used in Endodontics for Prosthetic Purposes in Complex Rehabilitation Treatment

The ideal biomaterial used in endodontics in the process of sealing the radicular canals should possess a group of qualities for a predictable outcome: biocompatibility, initiation of ontogenesis and cementogenesis, ease of handling, sufficient manipulation time, and convenient price. For a perfect sealing, the root canal treatment can be followed by prosthetic restoration. This study of biocompatibility aims to determine the quantification of the local reaction following the implantation of three biomaterials in the rabbit subcutaneous connective tissue. The used biomaterials with particular reparative properties are: MTA (Mineral Trioxide Aggregate, Dentsply, Tulsa Dental, Johnson City, TN, USA), Sealapex (Kerr, Switzerland), and DiaRoot BioAggregate (Innovative BioCaramix Inc, Vancouver, BC, Canada). The first two biomaterials (MTA, Sealapex) are already being used in endodontic treatments, and the latter was newly introduced during the concrete development of the study. This is an experimental study focused on qualitative and quantitative analysis based on histopathological examination and underlined by the positive result of the study undertaken of the applicability of oral rehabilitation treatments, increasing patients’ quality of life by a significant proportion of 95%, and generating optimal functionality of the stomatognathic system with prosthetic devices as well as accomplishing the objectives of homeostasis

THE STRATEGIC APPROACH TO HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGEMENT PRACTICES IN ROMANIAN COMPANIES - AN EMPIRICAL STUDY

The importance of human resources in modern companies has raised several research issues in the specialized literature. One of particular importance concerns the approach to human resources management practices. The research papers have revealed two main approaches - the administrative and the strategic one. The second orientation proved to be the one that generated different debates. The strategic perspective implies the existence of differences in practice concerning the development of specific human resources activities within the companies. The results of several specialised studies concerning the human resources management practices within Romanian companies were presented. We considered it necessary in order to understand the situation of this particular field and its specific approach in the companies located in our country. This paper aims to analyze the use of such approach in companies located in Constanta county, through an empirical study. It intends to investigate whether there are major differences concerning the assessment of the importance of specific practices (human resources planning, training, performance appraisal, and career management) between the companies having a human resources strategy and the ones without a human resources strategy. It also aims to investigate if the importance granted to the above mentioned set of practices varies function of the size of the company (number of employees). The research tool used was a questionnaire distributed to human resources managers or to other persons in charge of the specific human resources activities. A total of 75 questionnaires were distributed between October – November 2015, and 62 were returned filled in. The results of the study are in line with results of previous studies regarding human resources management practices in Romanian companies. Namely, the results indicated that the perceived importance of human resources planning and training was significantly different in companies having a human resources strategy from the ones without a human resources strategy. Moreover, the level of the perceived importance of the specific practices considered in the analysis (human resources planning, training, performance appraisal, and career management) varies significantly function of company size. The relevance of the present study is heralded by the interesting revealed facets of human resources management practices in Romanian companies, and represents a starting point for further research on the two main approaches on human resources management – the strategic approach vs. the administrative one

NON-BANK FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS – ACTORS IN THE SHADOW BANKING SYSTEM

This paper aims at investigating the importance of the non-bank financial institutions (NBFIs) as part of the shadow banking system in the Romanian financial system. The increased interest for the NBFIs in the last two decades is justified by the constant preoccupation both of the regulators and the financial analysts to find safety ways to provide funding to the real economy especially in time of economic and financial crisis without affecting the stability of the financial system. In order to obtain an accurate picture of the position of non-bank financial institutions in the Romanian financial system and the level of their activity we established several research objectives: determine the structure and the performances of the non-bank financial institutions; determine the level of the lending activity of the NBFIs and its evolution(the analysis is focused on the volume as well as the structure of the lending activity by currency, by debtor type and debtor activity sector. The methodology used to achieve these objectives is the quantitative and qualitative analysis using data provided by the monetary market authority through the interactive statistic data base available on the institution website and take into consideration the period 2008-2015. The findings of the research allowed us to draw the conclusion that, on one hand, the shadow banking system is poorly developed comparing to the traditional banking system and the NBFIs assets cumulated with the investments funds represent only 14% of the Romanian financial system, with an downward trend of the assets comparing with the banking system and a chaotic evolution of their profitability. On the other hand the non-bank financial institutions proved that their lending activity brings benefits for the real economy because they offer funds to those sectors of activities poorly financed by the traditional banking system as trade, services, mining and manufacturing, and agriculture and may be of interest to encourage the development of this segment of the financial market

CLINICAL AND RADIOGRAPHIC STUDY REGARDING THE SUCCESS THERAPY OF THE ROOT FURCATION LESIONS: A 12 MONTHS FOLLOW-UP

The aim of this study was to determine the repair rate of the root furcation lesions, using MTA and hydroxide calcium based materials. Materials and method The study group included 24 molars (8 maxillary; 16 mandibular) with root furcations, from 24 patients (14 males; 10 females), with age 21-46 years. The treatments were performed with MTA and calcium hydroxide-based products and radiographic follow-up for 12 months. Results The root furcations with endo-periodontal etiology presented complete healing 12 months posttreatment in 88% cases. The root furcations associated with root perforation presented complete healing 12 months posttreatment in 82% cases. Conclusions The lesion extension, the accuracy of technique and the therapeutic materials are important factors that influence the posttreatment evolution of an endo-periodontal lesion

Socio Economic Costs of Affective Disorders in Romania

The Romanian healthcare system is financed through public and private resources, the main source of public income for healthcare being the healthcare social insurance contribution, and the healthcare expense has grown constantly in the last decades. The highest costs in the health care system are those with primary, secondary and tertiary health care, affective disorders being treated in all these levels. Depression, the most common major psychiatric disorder, has an important burden of disease, involving a wide spectrum of disabilities and huge social and economic costs. Bipolar disorder leads also to an important impact on quality of life and a considerable economic burden. Our research analyzed, on a period of three years, the economic impact represented by direct cost of affective disorders, and efficiency indicators of the Romanian health-care system in this field on a sample of 236 health care institutions. Both number of patients and hospitalization days for affective disorders were decreasing, but these diseases still cause significant human and long-term costs. The direct cost per patient exceeds the national average every year. These costs associated with affective disorders and their impact contribute to the estimation of the health determinants

MANAGEMENT OF ENDODONTIC IATROGENIA: A REVIEW

Introduction. Endodontic iatrogenia, such as iatrogenic perforation, formation of ledges, blockage of canals, instrument breakage, unaddressed anatomical complexities, can have a substantial impact on the long-term outcome of endodontic treatment. The most frequent complications during endodontic treatments are root canal perforations, ledges, and instrument fractures. Prevention and management. Endodontic iatrogenia can be prevented by the use of AAE’s assessment tool (low, moderate, high difficulty cases), operator microscope, static/dynamic guided endodontics systems. Steps in management of endodontic iatrogenia consists of: assessment and diagnosis, communication with patient, immediate management, referral to specialist for non-surgical or surgical approach if necessary, monitorisation of healing process. Conclusions. Clinicians must possess a comprehensive understanding of the causes, prevention strategies, and reliable corrective measures for specific endodontic iatrogenia. Endodontic iatrogenia must be managed by individualised therapeutic approach using effective instrumentarium and biomaterials for positive long-term outcomes. Interdisciplinary collaboration of general dentist with specialists (endodontic specialist, oral surgeon) can be required in complex cases

Modelling the Impact of VAT Fiscality on Branch-Level Performance in the Construction Industry—Evidence from Romania

Fiscal policy stands as a crucial pillar of economic development through its economic financing function. The regulatory effects of fiscality have been shown to reduce the ripple effects of uncertainties on economic growth within the EU. Unlike the average European economy, the Romanian economy has exhibited particularities concerning economic growth (ranking highly in economic growth among European nations in absolute terms), partly due to a more assertive fiscal policy applied to a consumption-based economy affected by hyperinflation (especially in the last five calendar years). The research issue stems from the premise of the lack of predictability in Romanian fiscal policy and its implications for the business environment. Our aim is to develop an econometric model of the fiscal effects of VAT on the business performance of the construction sector in Romania for the period 2010–2021. The methods employed involve empirical analysis and the development of consolidated industry-level databases followed by econometric modeling using the multiple linear regression method. The results of the research demonstrate that financial independence and solvency promote excessive taxation in emerging markets and developing countries, such as Romania, being correlated with the macroeconomic evolution of the respective state. Additionally, the results indicate that tax pressure can constitute a barrier to the sustainable development of firms, with direct repercussions for consumers. Attractiveness to investors is also affected, remaining a priority for companies. The study’s findings will enable the identification of the main impediments and opportunities brought about by VAT taxation on branch-level performance, proving useful for construction sector managers and fiscal policy makers in fostering sustainable industry development and establishing a sustainable fiscal regime to safeguard investors

Novel Mutation in APC Gene Associated with Multiple Osteomas in a Family and Review of Genotype-Phenotype Correlations of Extracolonic Manifestations in Gardner Syndrome

Gardner syndrome is a neoplasic disease that associates intestinal polyposis and colorectal adenocarcinoma with osteomas and soft tissue tumors determined by germline mutations in the APC gene. The early diagnosis and identification of high-risk individuals are important because patients have a 100% risk of colon cancer. We present the case of a family with Gardner syndrome. Cephalometric, panoramic X-rays and CBCT of the proband and her brother showed multiple osteomas affecting the skull bones, mandible and paranasal sinuses. The detailed family history showed an autosomal dominant transmission with the presence of the disease in the mother and maternal grandfather of the proband. Both had the typical signs of disease and died in the fourth decade of life. Based on these aspects the clinical diagnosis was Gardner syndrome. By gene sequencing, a novel pathogenic variant c.4609dup (p.Thr1537Asnfs*7) in heterozygous status was identified in the APC gene in both siblings. We reviewed literature data concerning the correlation between the localization of mutations in the APC gene and the extracolonic manifestations of familial adenomatous polyposis as well as their importance in early diagnosis and adequate oncological survey of patients and families based on abnormal genomic variants

[WITHDRAWN] Interdisciplinarity in Complex Therapeutic Approach of Psychiatric Patients with Dysfunctional Syndrome of the Stomatognated System

Diseases in the maxillofacial sphere and especially the dysfunctional syndrome of the stomatognathic system have many connections and interferences with the psychiatric pathology and why not last, but not least the appearance and aesthetics that have an impact on social life and success. On the other hand, there has been a significant increase in the use of antipsychotics in recent decades. The negative impact on oral health has also increased. The ability to diagnose mental illness is essential due to the social stigma associated with these disorders and a correct differential diagnose as well. This article describes the oro-dental rehabilitation of one case, psychiatrically treated, with mandibular and maxilla missing teeth and dental destruction and prosthetic damage, temporomandibular disorders pathology due to the disbalanced occlusion and depression and anxiety, with specific medication, fixed and removable hybrid prosthesis and intra oral complex rehabilitation.Editor's Note | On 27.11.2023 the authors requested the paper withdrawal. Based on their request, the case is sent into analysis to the LUMEN Committee of Research and Publication Ethics. A decision on this case will be available online soon.Later edit | 15.12.2023 : The publisher requested each author to confirm by email its willingness to withdraw the paper from publication. Based on all the authors' confirmations the LUMEN Committee of Research and Publication Ethics will be able to finish its analysis and give a final decision.Decision | 15.01.2024: Based on the analysis of the authors' requests and the case information, the LUMEN Committee for Research and Publication Ethics decided the paper retraction. The retraction was based on duplicate publication.</p