Known especially for its negative ecological impact, Fallopia japonica (Japanese knotweed) is now considered one of the most invasive species. Nevertheless, its chemical composition has shown, beyond doubt, some high biological active compounds that can be a source of valuable pharmacological potential for the enhancement of human health. In this direction, resveratrol, emodin or polydatin, to name a few, have been extensively studied to demonstrate the beneficial effects on animals and humans. Thus, by taking into consideration the recent advances in the study of Japanese knotweed and its phytochemical constituents, the aim of this article is to provide an overview on the high therapeutic potential, underlining its antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and anticancer effects, among the most important ones. Moreover, we describe some future directions for reducing the negative impact of Fallopia japonica by using the plant for its beekeeping properties in providing a distinct honey type that incorporates most of its bioactive compounds, with the same health-promoting properties.

Oat bran has gained significant attention among cereal brans owing to its comparatively higher presence of dietary fibers and phytochemicals. The objective of the current research is to personify the nutritional and functional aspects of oat bran after yeast-induced (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) fermentation. For this purpose, a comparative study of raw and fermented oat bran was conducted to investigate the nutritional profile, antioxidant activity and functional characteristics of oat bran. Furthermore, pre- and post-structural variations on fermented bran were determined through scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results show that crude fat, protein and total dietary fiber (soluble and insoluble) contents were significantly improved after fermentation. Moreover, the post-fermentation value of soluble dietary fiber was increased from 5.01 ± 0.21 to 7.2 ± 0.1%. Antioxidant activity, DPPH-RSA and ferric reducing antioxidant power values of bran samples were also enhanced through fermentation and the anti-nutritional factor, i.e., phytate, was significantly reduced from 1113.3 ± 8.5 to 283.4 ± 3.5 mg/100 g in bran samples after fermentation. Furthermore, the surface morphology of fermented oat bran shows scattering and pores, while raw oat bran shows visible aggregation in SEM micrographs. Water-holding capacity was also enhanced up to 2.11 (5.68%) after fermentation. In conclusion, the post-fermentation results revealed that yeast-induced fermentation enhanced the physicochemical, structural and antioxidant characteristics of oat bran.

Along with the development and improvement of measuring technologies and techniques in recent times, new methods have appeared to model and monitor the behavior of land and constructions over time. The main purpose of this research was to develop a new methodology to model and monitor large buildings in a non-invasive way. The methods proposed in this research are non-destructive and can be used to monitor the behavior of buildings over time. A method of comparing point clouds obtained using terrestrial laser scanning combined with aerial photogrammetric methods was used in this study. The advantages and disadvantages of using non-destructive measurement techniques over the classic methods were also analyzed. With a building located in the University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Cluj-Napoca campus as a case study and with the help of the proposed methods, the deformations over time of the facades of that building were determined. As one of the main conclusions of this case study, it can be stated that the proposed methods are adequate to model and monitor the behavior of constructions over time, ensuring a satisfactory degree of precision and accuracy. The methodology can be successfully applied to other similar projects.

This case report is aimed to demonstrate the synergetic effects of λ940 nm laser photobiomodulation (PBM) therapy in augmenting the advantages of high-level-laser treatment (HLLT)-mediated reaction orthodontic periodontal interface management. Materials and Methods: A 32-year-old female who presented with a persistent gummy smile of upper incisors and low upper midline frenum attachment post-orthodontic treatment, was seeking a better smile appearance. She had a history of delayed wound healing without underlying medical conditions; otherwise, she was fit and healthy. She underwent laser ablation of the upper midline frenum and gingivoplasty of the upper incisors region with λ940 nm and λ2780, respectively, as well as transcutaneous PBM therapy (λ940 nm) to accelerate wound healing. The laser protocols were as follows: λ2780 nm: power output—2 W, pulse width—60 μs, free running pulse (FRP), spot area—0.0016 cm², pulse repetition rate—25 pulses per second (s), 80 mJ/pulse, 90 s, λ940 nm: 1.2 W, continuous wave (CW) emission mode, 300 μm, 60 s; whereas the adjunctive λ940 nm induced-PBM parameters were as follows: power output—1.4 W, CW—120 s, single application, spot area—2.8 cm². An acceleration of the wound healing was observed on the 4th day of treatment with no immediate or post-operative complications. The results showed no functional or aesthetic relapses at a long-term follow-up of 6 months. The authors concluded that λ940 nm laser-PBM can provide a synergetic effect to HLLT in accelerating wound healing and offering a precision smile with minimal to none post-operative complications. It is safe and justifiable to utilise dual therapy over the conventional methods, which serves our patients’ needs in our daily practice and in various clinical indications. The concept and laser protocols of this clinical case report can pave the roadmap for future extensive studies.

The National Program of Systematic Land Registration aims to register all land property in Romania by 2023. The goal has proven difficult to achieve, as by June 2022 only 4% of the localities in the country were completed. The aim of this research is to find the similarities and differences between the fit for purpose principles of land administration for the spatial framework and the practices in The Romanian National Program of Systematic Land Registration. This is the first study that analyzes the Romanian land registration program through the lens of the fit for purpose concept. The research shows that there are similarities with the fit for purpose spatial framework principles for the use of aerial images and the participatory nature of the process. However, The National Program of Systematic Land Registration uses almost exclusively fixed boundaries and does not have different standards of accuracy and procedures for incremental improvement. Registering the parcels earlier in the process, flexibility for accuracy, and technical standards and regulations for incremental improvement of the system can speed up the registration in a fit for purpose manner.

This research aimed to evaluate the efficacy of contemporary digitization methods for archaeological sites, specifically focusing on aerial approaches. The study is concentrated on the examination of two primary methods: LiDAR sensor and photogrammetry. The chosen case study revolves around the Camp of the V Macedonica Legion, a pivotal feature of the former Roman city now known as Turda, a city in Cluj County, Transylvania, Romania. Through analysis and comparison, the paper revealed that each of these aerial 3D scanning techniques possesses unique strengths, which, when combined, offer a comprehensive approach to archaeological digitization. These complementary attributes must be carefully considered and integrated considering the specific requirements and objectives of the archaeological project at hand when selecting the appropriate method. Furthermore, the research underscores the pivotal role of presenting archaeology in 3D, emphasizing its significant impact on both public and academic audiences. Achieving this presentation necessitates the utilization of specialized software for modelling, rendering, and animating objects of interest, thus enhancing the accessibility and engagement of archaeological findings. The comprehensive findings of this study demonstrate the vast potential offered by aerial 3D scans in the field of archaeology. Moreover, it serves as a potential call for the meticulous selection of the analysis method, recognizing its crucial role as a valuable tool for researchers and archaeologists. By leveraging 3D technologies in their activities, professionals in the field can significantly enhance the accuracy, depth, and accessibility of their archaeological investigations, thereby enriching our understanding of the past.