University of Galați

Background: Risk stratification in sepsis remains a major clinical challenge in hospital settings, where timely recognition of disease progression can critically influence outcomes. Traditional scoring systems, such as SOFA and APACHE II, are frequently applied but are limited by their complexity and inconsistent predictive accuracy. Integrating biological markers with clinical scores may enhance the early identification of patients with an unfavorable prognosis. Objective: The objective of this investigation was to determine the prognostic performance of two composite scoring systems, BIO-S and BIO-SC, in predicting 28-day mortality among patients with sepsis or septic shock. Methods: We conducted a retrospective single-center study including 125 adult surgical patients with sepsis or septic shock. BIO-S was calculated using procalcitonin (PCT), neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), INR, and SOFA score, whereas BIO-SC extended this model by incorporating the Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI). Both bioscores were calculated at admission and analyzed in relation to 28-day mortality and discharge status. Results: Among the 125 patients included, 28-day all-cause mortality was 36% (n = 45). The BIO-SC score achieved the highest predictive accuracy for 28-day mortality (AUC = 0.942), surpassing BIO-S (AUC = 0.930), SOFA (AUC = 0.928), and APACHE II (AUC = 0.918). Both bioscores correlated strongly with discharge outcomes and were independent predictors of 28-day mortality (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Integrating inflammatory biomarkers, organ dysfunction, and comorbidity burden into composite prognostic models such as BIO-S and BIO-SC significantly improves early mortality risk assessment and outcome prediction in sepsis, although external validation remains necessary.

Aramid-based polymeric fabrics are increasingly employed in lightweight protective and structural applications where high strength, flexibility, and impact resistance are required. Their response under high-velocity impact is governed by complex interactions among fiber properties, inter-yarn friction, and the mechanical behavior of the impacting body. In this work, three-dimensional finite element simulations were conducted in ANSYS Explicit Dynamics to investigate the coupled effects of the interfacial friction coefficient (μ = coefficient of friction = 0.0-0.5) and impactor material on the dynamic response of 24-layer plain-weave aramid panels. The numerical results reveal that low friction facilitates yarn mobility and localized penetration, whereas moderate friction enhances stress-wave dispersion and enables a more uniform activation of multiple fabric layers. At higher friction levels, penetration is further reduced, but localized stress concentrations may emerge due to constrained yarn movement. The constitutive properties of the impactor strongly influenced deformation modes and the efficiency of kinetic energy transfer to the composite structure. The simulated results are consistent with experimental data reported in the literature, confirming the predictive capability of the model. The study provides quantitative insight into the role of frictional interactions and impactor characteristics in optimizing the energy absorption and structural integrity of aramid-based polymeric fabrics subjected to high-velocity loading, contributing to the development of advanced lightweight protective materials.

The degradation of aquatic ecosystems is one of the most pressing environmental challenges of the 21st century. Pollution, biodiversity loss, and ineffective governance all threaten the sustainability of these vital ecosystems. This study adopts a holistic approach to the study of aquatic ecosystem protection. This approach integrates citizen engagement, technological innovations, governance frameworks, and sustainable practices within the theoretical context of knowledge dynamics. The study extends Bratianu’s knowledge dynamics framework by introducing the concept of holistic evolutionary knowledge. The study thus examines the interplay between rational, emotional, and spiritual dimensions of knowledge in driving ecological stewardship. Data were collected from respondents from Romania and Greece. These two countries were chosen for their distinct ecological and socioeconomic contexts to provide a comparative perspective on citizen engagement and sustainable practices. A structured questionnaire was distributed to gather data from 374 participants. Analysis of these data was conducted using three methods. The XGBoost machine learning algorithm enabled predictive modeling. Kruskal–Wallis tests were used to assess statistically significant differences between countries. Finally, correlation analysis was performed to identify linear relationships between variables. The findings reveal citizen engagement and emotional knowledge as the strongest predictors of sustainable behavior, with multidimensional knowledge positively linked to ecological practices, thereby advancing SDG 6 and informing citizen science, policy, and environmental action.

Purpose:The purpose of this study is to investigate whether body shape perceptions and fat phobia differ according to the gender and year of study of PE teacher candidates. In addition, the study aims to investigate the possible relationship between actual and ideal body shape perceptions and fatphobia. Methods:The study involved a total of 141 PE teacher candidates. The participants' mean age was 21.45 (±1.93) years (M female = 21.08 ± 1.56, M male = 21.73 ± 2.14). Data was collected using a Demo-graphic Information Form, a Fatphobia Scale, and a Figure Rating Scale. The Mann-Whitney U test, the Kruskal-Wallis test and the Spearman's correlation analysis were used to analyze the data. Results:The results showed that there was no statistically significant difference between female and male teacher candidates' levels of fatphobia. In contrast, there was a significant difference between their perceptions of current and ideal body shape. The results also showed that there was no difference between the perceived levels of fatphobia and the perceived current and ideal body shapes of the Grade Level 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th-year PE teacher candidates. The findings revealed a lack of a statistically significant relationship between fatphobia and current body image and between fatphobia and ideal body image. Conclusion:As a result of the research, the fact that PE teacher candidates are moderately fatphobic, perceive themselves to be overweight, and idealize thinness to a higher degree than men has provided critical insights for educational policymakers.

This article explores the impact of three fundamental psychological obstacles in the actor's training process: fear of ridicule, shame, and fear of the unknown. Drawing on pedagogical experience with first- and second-year students, the paper examines these “blocking emotions” not as absolute hindrances, but as elements that can be integrated and transformed into creative resources. It includes theoretical perspectives, concrete examples, pedagogical applications, and transdisciplinary reflections, aiming to provide a framework for both educators and students to understand and engage with these challenges