2022

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listelement.badge.access-status Open Access ,
Detection of the co-infections with Borrelia, Anaplasma and Ehrlichia species in dogs with babesiosis in North-Eastern Romania
(Asociatia Generala a Medicilor Veterinari din Romania, 2022) Martinescu, Gabriela-Victoria; Ciucă, Lavinia; Roman, Constantin; Acatrinei, Dumitru-Mihai; Ivănescu, Maria-Larisa; Iacob, Olimpia; Maurelli, Maria-Paola; Miron, Liviu-Dan
Vector-borne diseases are an important threat to animals and human health, due to their zoonotic potential, increasing the global prevalence. In this study, we collected blood samples from dogs confirmed with canine babesiosis, and the ticks attached were removed and stored until morphological identification and DNA extraction. The aim of this study was the screening for the possible co-infections with bacterial tick-borne pathogens, using PCR protocols to detect: Borrelia spp., Anaplasma spp., and Ehrlichia spp. in blood and tick samples. Of the 66 dogs, 15 (22.7%) were positive for Borrelia burgdorferi s.l., 0 for Anaplasma spp./Ehrlichia spp. and 2 (3.03%) for Candidatus Midichloria mitochondrii. 2 dogs (3.03%) were co-infected with Borrelia burgdorferi s.l. and Candidatus Midichloria mitochondrii. Morphologically we identified a total of 99 ticks as Ixodes ricinus (48.5%) and Dermacentor reticulatus (51.5%), which were distributed in pools according to the following criteria: canine patient, species, and developmental stage (gender). The most common pathogen species detected in ticks was Candidatus Midichloria mitochondrii (25.8%) without clinical significance, followed by Borrelia burgdorferi s.l. (12.9%) and co-infection Borrelia burgdorferi s.l. + Candidatus Midichloria mitochondrii (6.5%). The results of this study show the importance of identifying co-infections in tick-infested dogs and the need for prevention protocols of ticks infestations in dogs.
listelement.badge.access-status Open Access ,
Dirofilaria repens predominates in shelter dogs from South Romania
(Elsevier Ltd., 2022-03-09) Cîmpan, Andrei-Alexandru; Baneth, Gad; Nachum Biala, Yaarit; Miron, Liviu-Dan; Rojas, Alicia
Canine filarioids are zoonotic vector-borne parasitic nematodes distributed mostly in the tropics and subtropics. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence, distribution, etiology and genetic variation of canine filarioid infections by three different PCR techniques in four Southern Romanian counties. Blood samples of 300 shelter dogs were screened for infections with canine filarioids by real-time PCR. To determine filarioid species and coinfections, samples positive in the initial screening were further tested by conventional PCR and sequenced. Results indicated that 17% of the tested dogs were positive for at least one filarioid species. The prevalence of D. repens infection was 11.7%, significantly higher than that of D. immitis (4.7%) and A. reconditum (1.3%) (p ≤ 0.003). The high prevalence of canine filarioid infections represents a challenge to animal and human health in the South of Romania, and they should be constantly monitored.
listelement.badge.access-status Metadata only ,
Electrospun Copoly(ether imide) Nanofibers Doped with Silver-Loaded Zeolite as Materials for Biomedical Applications
(American Chemical Society, 2022-07-21) Hamciuc, Corneliu; Vlad Bubulac, Tăchiță; Bercea, Maria; Suflet, Dana-Mihaela; Doroftei, Florica; Rîmbu, Cristina-Mihaela; Enache, Alexandru-Alin; Kalvachev, Yuri; Todorova, Totka; Butnaru, Maria; Serbezeanu, Diana
One of the most versatile techniques to fabricate micro-/nanoscaled nonwoven fibrous materials is represented by electrospinning. Due to its easy availability and versatility, increasing efforts worldwide have focused on the preparation of natural and/or synthetic composite membranes that eventually mimic the artificial extracellular matrix. Electrospun composite membranes based on copoly(ether imide)s derived from Jeffamine, and additionally doped with silver-loaded zeolite L nanoparticles (ze-Ag+), have been successfully produced in the present work via a solution electrospinning process. The morphology of the developed electrospun membranes based on pure copoly(ether imide)s (co-PEI-0) and doped copoly(ether imide)s (co-PEI-0/zeolite or co-PEI-0/silver-containing zeolite L nanoparticles) was investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), while the homogeneous distribution of the nanoparticles within the electrospun fibers has been introspected by means of energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX). Young’s modulus was reduced from 0.677 MPa for pure co-PEI electrospun fibers to 0.221 MPa when silver-loaded zeolite L nanoparticles were attached to the electrospun composite membranes. Antimicrobial activity of the products demonstrated that the samples containing silver-exchanged zeolite L nanoparticles present an inhibitory effect against both Gram-negative (Escherichia coli ATCC 25922) and Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923) bacteria. Furthermore, a biocompatibility check by studying the cell viability and cell morphology of the developed composite membranes revealed no cytotoxic activity.
listelement.badge.access-status Open Access ,
Seroprevalence of Anti-Hepatitis E Virus Antibodies among Patients from a Tertiary Hospital from Northeast Romania
(MDPI, 2022-07-29) Mihai, Ioana-Florina; Aniță, Dragoș-Constantin; Dorneanu, Olivia-Simona; Luca, Mihaela-Cătălina; Manciuc, Carmen-Doina; Budacu, Cristian-Constantin; Roșu, Florin-Manuel; Savuța, Gheorghe; Aniță, Adriana-Elena; Vâță, Andrei
Background and Objectives. Being an enterically transmitted pathogen with a growing prevalence in developed countries, hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection remains an underdiagnosed disease in Eastern Europe. As far as Romania is concerned, only a few studies address this issue. Our goal was to estimate the prevalence of serum anti-HEV IgA/IgM/IgG antibodies in a group of patients admitted to the Clinical Hospital for Infectious Diseases “St. Parascheva” Iasi. Materials and Methods. The cross-sectional study consisted of enrollment of 98 patients admitted to the clinic for COVID-19 over a period of three months in 2020. Results. The median age in our study was 73 years, with an equal gender ratio and with a predominance of people from the urban environment (75%). The overall HEV antibody seroprevalence was 12.2%. The main risk factors associated with HEV infection were consumption of water from unsafe sources (58.3% HEV-positive patients vs. 26.7% HEV-negative patients, p = 0.026) and improperly cooked meat (58.3% HEV-positive patients vs. 23.2% HEV-negative patients, p = 0.01). Zoonotic transmission was an important criterion in our study, with patients reporting contact with pigs, poultry, rats, or other farms animals, but no significant differences were found between HEV antibody positive and negative groups. Conclusions. The seroprevalence rate of HEV antibodies was similar to other previous reports from our area but higher than in most European countries. The fact that HEV antibodies were detected in patients without identifiable risk factors for hepatitis E is evidence of subclinical infection as a silent threat.
listelement.badge.access-status Open Access ,
Evaluation of DDGS as a Low-Cost Feed Ingredient for Common Carp (Cyprinus carpio Linneus) Cultivated in a Semi-Intensive System
(MDPI, 2022-10-14) Barbacariu, Cristian-Alin; Rîmbu, Cristina-Mihaela; Dîrvariu, Lenuța; Burducea, Marian; Boiangiu, Răzvan-Ștefan; Todirașcu Ciornea, Elena; Dumitru, Gabriela
Distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS), a coproduct from the ethanol production industry, is successfully used as an ingredient in feeding cattle and pigs due to its relatively high protein and nutrient content and low price compared to cereals. The aim of this study was to establish the optimal DDGS concentration that can be included in the diet of common carp. A seven-week experiment was performed on common carp with an initial weight of 86 g feed with three experimental diets D0 (DDGS 0%), D1 (DDGS 25%) and D2 (DDGS 35%). The chemical composition of DDGS analyzed by Fourier Transform Near-Infrared (FT-NIR) spectroscopy showed a protein content of 27.56% and oil at 6.75%. Diets with DDGS did not produce significant changes in growth parameters, flesh quality, and blood biochemical profile. Regarding the oxidative status in the muscle tissue, D1 and D2 significantly reduced, in a dose-dependent manner, the specific activity of SOD and GSH, while CAT and GPX were left unaffected. In the liver tissue, CAT, GSH, MDA and carbonylated proteins were reduced in the DDGS diets. The microbiological analysis of the intestinal contents revealed a variation in microbial density depending on the diet used. The total number of aerobic germs was between 224.2 × 104 and 69.84 × 106 (D2 > D1 > D0) and the total number of anaerobic germs was between 15.2 × 102 and 28.2 × 102 (D2 > D0 > D1).
listelement.badge.access-status Open Access ,
Phyto-Functionalized Silver Nanoparticles Derived from Conifer Bark Extracts and Evaluation of Their Antimicrobial and Cytogenotoxic Effects
(MDPI, 2021-12-30) Macovei, Irina; Luca, Simon-Vlad; Skalicka Woźniak, Krystyna; Săcărescu, Liviu; Pascariu, Petronela; Ghilan, Alina; Doroftei, Florica; Ursu, Elena-Laura; Rîmbu, Cristina-Mihaela; Horhogea, Cristina-Elena; Lungu, Cristina; Vochița, Gabriela; Panainte, Alina-Diana; Nechita, Constantin; Corciova, Maria-Andreia; Miron, Anca
Silver nanoparticles synthesized using plant extracts as reducing and capping agents showed various biological activities. In the present study, colloidal silver nanoparticle solutions were produced from the aqueous extracts of Picea abies and Pinus nigra bark. The phenolic profile of bark extracts was analyzed by liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry. The synthesis of silver nanoparticles was monitored using UV-Vis spectroscopy by measuring the Surface Plasmon Resonance band. Silver nanoparticles were characterized by attenuated total reflection Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering, scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray and transmission electron microscopy analyses. The antimicrobial and cytogenotoxic effects of silver nanoparticles were evaluated by disk diffusion and Allium cepa assays, respectively. Picea abies and Pinus nigra bark extract derived silver nanoparticles were spherical (mean hydrodynamic diameters of 78.48 and 77.66 nm, respectively) and well dispersed, having a narrow particle size distribution (polydispersity index values of 0.334 and 0.224, respectively) and good stability (zeta potential values of −10.8 and −14.6 mV, respectively). Silver nanoparticles showed stronger antibacterial, antifungal, and antimitotic effects than the bark extracts used for their synthesis. Silver nanoparticles obtained in the present study are promising candidates for the development of novel formulations with various therapeutic applications.
listelement.badge.access-status Open Access ,
Mechanical Characterization and In Vitro Assay of Biocompatible Titanium Alloys
(MDPI, 2022-03-10) Bălțatu, Iustinian; Sandu, Andrei-Victor; Vlad, Maria-Daniela; Spătaru, Mihaela-Claudia; Vizureanu, Petrică; Bălțatu, Mădălina-Simona
Metals that come into contact with the body can cause reactions in the body, so biomaterials must be tested to avoid side effects. Mo, Zr, and Ta are non-toxic elements; alloyed with titanium, they have very good biocompatibility properties and mechanical properties. The paper aims to study an original Ti20Mo7ZrxTa system (5, 10, 15 wt %) from a mechanical and in vitro biocompatibility point of view. Alloys were examined by optical microstructure, tensile strength, fractographic analysis, and in vitro assay. The obtained results indicate very good mechanical and biological properties, recommending them for future orthopedic medical applications.
listelement.badge.access-status Open Access ,
Periodontal Tissue Reaction Consecutive Implantation of Endodontic Materials and Subsequent Integration of Complex Oral Rehabilitation Treatments
(MDPI, 2022-01-22) Aminov, Liana; Pașca, Aurelian-Sorin; Șindilar, Eusebiu-Viorel; Beldiman, Maria-Antonela; Bulancea, Bogdan-Petru; Stamatin, Ovidiu; Lupu, Iulian-Costin; Croitoru, Irina; Teslaru, Silvia; Solomon, Sorina-Mihaela; Foia, Georgeta-Liliana; Checheriță, Laura-Elisabeta
Oral rehabilitation is a main branch of dentistry focused on diagnosing the patient’s problem and creating a treatment plan to restore aesthetics, recondition morphologically all components, and recover the functionality of the oral cavity. Biological compatibility of the materials used has a major importance, due to the direct contact with essential tissues, such as the soft and hard tissue of the periodontium and the potential influence on the outcome of the treatment. The present material aims to assess the inflammatory response after subcutaneous implantation of three materials frequently used in endodontics (Mineral Trioxide Aggregate—MTA, DiaRoot BioAggregate, and Sealapex). The evaluation of the reparative tissue reaction after 7, 30, and 60 days, respectively, subsequent to in vivo implantation, was carried out through electron microscopy imaging. Moreover, evaluation of the dynamics of the osteogenesis process was an indicator for the maintenance of internal homeostasis in the context of complex intraoral rehabilitation treatments that include fixed prosthodontics correlated with the particular periodontal-aesthetic aspects and completed by cranio-mandibular repositioning. Our study showed increased absolute values of alkaline phosphatase in all material-implanted cases (more pronounced in MTA and Bio Aggregate), highlighting that this enzyme could be an effective indicator of bone formation, which takes place after the material implantation, with the most significant elevated values at 30 days postoperatively.
listelement.badge.access-status Open Access ,
Cold Atmospheric Plasma, Platelet-Rich Plasma, and Nitric Oxide Synthesis Inhibitor: Effects Investigation on an Experimental Model on Rats
(MDPI, 2022-01-07) Caba, Bogdan; Gardikiotis, Ioannis; Topală, Ionuț; Mihăilă, Ilarion; Mihai, Cosmin-Teodor; Luca, Mihaela-Cătălina; Caba, Ioana-Cezara; Dimitriu, Gabriel; Huzum, Bogdan; Șerban, Ionela-Lăcrămioara; Pașca, Aurelian-Sorin
The evolution of reconstructive methods for defects of the human body cannot yet replace the use of flap surgery. Research is still preoccupied with the ideal techniques for offering the best chances of survival of the flaps. In our study, we investigated the effects of cold atmospheric plasma (CAP), N-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME), and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injectable solutions on flap survival using an in vivo model. Twenty-four Wistar rats (four groups) had the McFarlane flap raised and CAP, L-NAME, and PRP substances tested through a single dose subcutaneous injection. The control group had only a saline solution injected. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study that evaluated a CAP activated solution through injection on flaps. The flap survival rate was determined by clinical examination (photography documented), hematology, thermography, and anatomopathological tests. The image digital analysis performed on the flaps showed that the necrosis area (control—49.64%) was significantly lower for the groups with the three investigated solutions: CAP (14.47%), L-NAME (18.2%), and PRP (23.85%). Thermography exploration revealed less ischemia than the control group on the CAP, L-NAME, and PRP groups as well. Anatomopathological data noted the best degree of angiogenesis on the CAP group, with similar findings on the L-NAME and PRP treated flaps. The blood work did not indicate infection or a strong inflammatory process in any of the subjects. Overall, the study shows that the CAP activated solution has a similar (better) impact on the necrosis rate (compared with other solutions with known effects) when injected on the modified dorsal rat skin flap, and on top of that it can be obtained fast, in unlimited quantities, non-invasively, and through a standardized process.
listelement.badge.access-status Open Access ,
Statistical Analysis and Machine Learning Used in the Case of Two Behavioral Tests Applied in Zebrafish Exposed to Mycotoxins
(MDPI, 2022-03-11) Mandalian, Tigran-Lucian; Pașca, Aurelian-Sorin; Toma, Loredana-Maria; Agop, Maricel; Toma, Bogdan-Florin; Vasilescu, Alin-Mihai; Lupașcu Ursulescu, Corina
Machine learning is a branch of artificial intelligence that allows computer systems to learn directly from examples, data, and experience. Statistical modeling is more about finding connections between variables and consequently the impact of these relationships, while also catering for prediction. It should be clear that these two methodologies are different in terms of their purpose, despite the fact that they use similar means to get there. The evaluation of the machine learning algorithm uses a set of tests to validate its accuracy. Although, for a statistical model, the analysis of regression parameters by confidence intervals, significance tests and other tests can be used to assess the legitimacy of the model. To demonstrate the applications and usefulness of this theory, an experimental study was conducted on zebrafish exposed to mycotoxin. Methods: Patulin (70 µg/L) and kojic acid (100 mg/L, 204 mg/L, and 284 mg/L) were administered by immersion to zebrafish once daily for a period of 7 days before the behavior testing. The following behavioral tests were performed: a novel tank test (NTT) (to assess the explorative behavior and anxiety); and a Y-maze test (which measures the spontaneous explorative behavior). Behavioral tests were performed on separate days. For the behavior tests, the statistical analysis was performed using ANOVA variation analysis (two-way ANOVA). All results are expressed as the mean ± standard error of the mean. The values of the general index F for which p < 0.05 were considered statistically significant. Results: Y-maze—patulin exposure led to an intensification of the locomotor activity and an increased traveled distance and number of arm entries. By increasing the spontaneous alternation between the aquarium’s arms, patulin has shown a stimulating effect on spatial memory. In the case of zebrafish exposed to 100 mg/L kojic acid, the traveled distance was shorter by 27% than the distance attained by those in the control group. The higher doses of kojic acid (204 mg/L and 284 mg/L) led to an increased locomotor activity, distance traveled, number of arm entries, and the spontaneous alternation. The increase in spontaneous alternation demonstrates that 204 mg/L and 284 mg/L kojic acid doses had a stimulating effect on spatial memory. Novel tank test—compared to the control group, the traveled distance of the patulin-exposed fish is slightly reduced. Compared to the control group, the traveled distance of the kojic acid-exposed fish is reduced, due to a shorter mobile time (by 25–27% in the case of fish exposed to 204 mg/L and 284 mg/L kojic acid). Patulin and kojic acid exhibit toxic effects on zebrafish liver, kidney, and myocardium and leads to severe alteration. We continued the analysis by trying some machine learning algorithms on the classification problems in the case of the two behavioral tests MAZE and NTT, after which we concluded that the results were better in the case of the NTT test relative to the MAZE test and that the use of decision tree algorithms leads to amazing results, knowing that their hierarchical structure allows them to learn signals from both classes. Conclusions: The groups exposed to patulin and kojic acid show histological changes in the liver, kidneys, and myocardial muscle tissue. The novel tank test, which assesses exploratory behavior, has been shown to be conclusive in the behavioral analysis of fish that have been given toxins, demonstrating that the intoxicated fish had a decreased explorative behavior and increased anxiety. We were able to detect a machine learning algorithm in the category of decision trees, which can be trained to classify the behavior of fish that were given a toxin in the category of those used in the experiment, only by analyzing the characteristic features of the NTT Behavior Test.
listelement.badge.access-status Open Access ,
Serum anti-GM2 and anti-GalNAc-GD1a IgG antibodies are biomarkers for acute canine polyradiculoneuritis
(Wiley, 2022-02-11) Halstead, S.K.; Gourlay, D.S.; Penderis, J.; Bianchi, E.; Dondi, M.; Wessmann, A.; Musteață, Mihai; Le Chevoir, M.; Martinez Anton, L.; Bhatti, S.F.M.; Volk, H.; Mateo, I.; Tipold, A.; Ives, E.; Pakozdy, A.; Gutierrez Quintana, R.; Brocal, J.; Whitehead, Z.; Granger, N.; Pazzi, P.; Harcourt Brown, T.; José López, R.; Rupp, S.; Schenk, H. C.; Smith, P.; Gandini, G.; Menchetti, M.; Mortera Balsa, V.; Rusbridge, C.; Tauro, A.; Cozzi, F.; Deutschland, M.; Tirrito, F.; Freeman, P.; Lowrie, M.; Jackson, M.R.; Willison, H.J.; Rupp, A.
Abstract Objectives A previous single-country pilot study indicated serum anti-GM2 and anti-GA1 anti-glycolipid antibodies as potential biomarkers for acute canine polyradiculoneuritis. This study aims to validate these findings in a large geographically heterogenous cohort. Materials and Methods Sera from 175 dogs clinically diagnosed with acute canine polyradiculoneuritis, 112 dogs with other peripheral nerve, cranial nerve or neuromuscular disorders and 226 neurologically normal dogs were screened for anti-glycolipid antibodies against 11 common glycolipid targets to determine the immunoglobulin G anti-glycolipid antibodies with the highest combined sensitivity and specificity for acute canine polyradiculoneuritis. Results Anti-GM2 anti-glycolipid antibodies reached the highest combined sensitivity and specificity (sensitivity: 65.1%, 95% confidence interval 57.6 to 72.2%; specificity: 90.2%, 95% confidence interval 83.1 to 95.0%), followed by anti-GalNAc-GD1a anti-glycolipid antibodies (sensitivity: 61.7%, 95% confidence interval 54.1 to 68.9%; specificity: 89.3%, 95% confidence interval 82.0 to 94.3%) and these anti-glycolipid antibodies were frequently present concomitantly. Anti-GA1 anti-glycolipid antibodies were detected in both acute canine polyradiculoneuritis and control animals. Both for anti-GM2 and anti-GalNAc-GD1a anti-glycolipid antibodies, sex was found a significantly associated factor with a female to male odds ratio of 2.55 (1.27 to 5.31) and 3.00 (1.22 to 7.89), respectively. Anti-GalNAc-GD1a anti-glycolipid antibodies were more commonly observed in dogs unable to walk (OR 4.56, 1.56 to 14.87). Clinical Significance Anti-GM2 and anti-GalNAc-GD1a immunoglobulin G anti-glycolipid antibodies represent serum biomarkers for acute canine polyradiculoneuritis.
listelement.badge.access-status Open Access ,
Seronegative Myasthenia Gravis with Concomitant SARS-CoV-2 Infection in a Dog
(MDPI, 2022-06-24) Musteață, Mihai; Borcea, Denis-Gabriel; Despa, Andreea-Daniela; Ștefănescu, Raluca-Adriana; Ivănescu, Maria-Larisa; Hrițcu, Luminița-Diana; Baisan, Radu-Andrei; Lăcătuș, Radu; Solcan, Gheorghe
Myasthenia gravis is a disorder of neuromuscular transmission affecting neuromuscular junction. Both congenital and acquired forms are described in dogs. Usually, the acquired form might be induced by an autoimmune attack against specific acetylcholine receptors. Viral infection is incriminated to be a trigger for myasthenia gravis occurrence and, in a limited number of papers, infection with SARS-CoV-2 was found to be associated with myasthenia gravis expression in humans. In this case report, we describe a 2-year old crossbred, female dog case of seronegative generalized myasthenia gravis and concomitant SARS-CoV 2 infection due to close exposure to an infected owner. Despite the viral particles were not identified in our dog, the presence of anti SARS-CoV 2 antibodies and the epidemiological context were highly suggestive for a new recent infection with SARS-CoV 2. Our data complete the limited number of reports which document the SARS-CoV 2 passage from owners to pets and underline the role of serological screening for specific anti-SARS-CoV 2 antibodies as an indirect marker of infection especially when the viral detection fail to PCR test.
listelement.badge.access-status Open Access ,
Antibacterial and Antifungal Silver Nanoparticles with Tunable Size Embedded in Various Cellulose-Based Matrices
(MDPI, 2022-10-07) Biliuță, Gabriela; Bostănaru, Andra-Cristina; Mareș, Mihai; Pavlov Enescu, Carla; Năstasă, Valentin; Burduniuc, Olga; Coseri, Sergiu
The aim of this study was to synthesize silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using cellulose derivatives and to evaluate their antimicrobial potential. As effective reducing and stabilizing agents for AgNPs, cellulose derivatives, such as hydroxypropyl cellulose (HPC), methylcellulose (MC), ethylcellulose (EC), and cellulose acetate (CA), were used. Their ability to reduce silver ions as well as the size of the resulting AgNPs were compared. The formation and stability of the reduced AgNPs in the solution were monitored using UV-Vis analysis. The size, morphology, and charge of the AgNPs were evaluated. We found that, when using cellulosic derivatives, AgNPs with sizes ranging from 17 to 89 nm and different stabilities were obtained. The parameters, such as size and ζ potential indicate the stability of AgNPs, with AgNPs-CA and AgNPs-HPC being considered more stable than AgNPs-EC and AgNPs-MC since they show higher ζ potential values. In addition, the AgNPs showed antimicrobial activity against all reference strains and clinical isolates. MIC values between 0.0312 and 0.125 mM had a bactericidal effect on both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. The fungicidal effect was obtained at a MIC value of 0.125 mM. These results may provide rational support in the design of medical gauze products, including gauze pads, rolls, and sponges.
listelement.badge.access-status Open Access ,
Trichinella spiralis and T. britovi in North-Eastern Romania: A Six-Year Retrospective Multicentric Survey
(MDPI, 2022-09-17) Iacob, Olimpia; Chiruță, Ciprian; Mareș, Mihai
The genus Trichinella includes roundworm parasites with a wide geographical spread that can cause illness in humans and animals. In this context, an epidemiological study of Trichinella infection was carried out in the northeastern part of Romania to investigate for the first time its prevalence in pigs, horses, wild boars and bears, the geographical distribution of Trichinella species and the natural reservoir of the parasites. Between 2010 and 2015, a total of 166,270 animals were examined by specific methods in order to calculate the prevalence of Trichinella infection, the involved species, and their geographical distribution. The overall prevalence of Trichinella infection in animals was 0.188%. But the specific prevalence varied as follows: in pigs 0.096%, horses 0.021%, wild boar 1.46% and bears 36.76%. The geographical distribution showed that T. spiralis was dominant, occupying the entire northeastern part of Romania, being identified in pigs, horses, wild boars and bears. T britovi occupied five mountain counties, being identified only in wild boars and bears. These results validate the presence of T. spiralis and T. britovi in domestic and game animals in northeast Romania and warn about the risk of human infection in the region.
listelement.badge.access-status Open Access ,
Candida Genus Maximum Incidence in Boar Semen Even after Preservation, Is It Not a Risk for AI though?
(MDPI, 2022-10-03) Ciornei, Ștefan-Gregore; Drugociu, Dan-Gheorghe; Roșca, Petru
There is little information in the literature about the fungal contamination of boar semen and its persistence during storage. The challenge of this study was to perform a mycological screening to identify the yeast in the raw semen at 12/24 h after dilution. The research was done in pig farms in the N-E area of Romania, with maximum biosecurity and state-of-the-art technology. All the examined ejaculates (101) were considered to be normal for each spermogram parameter, with microbiological determinations in T0 at the time of ejaculate collection, T1 at the time of dilution, and T2 at 24 h of storage. Microbiological determinations (mycological spermogram) were performed for quantitative (LogCFU/mL) and qualitative (typification of fungal genera) identification. Bacterial burden (×103 LogCFU/mL) after dilution (T1) decreased drastically (p < 0.0001) compared to the one in the raw semen (T0). After 24 h of storage at 17 °C, the mean value of the bacteriospermia remained constant at an average value of 0.44. Mycospermia had a constant trend at T0 (raw) and T1 (0.149 vs. 0.140) and was slightly higher at T2 (0.236). The difference between T1 vs. T2 (p = 0.0419) was close to the statistical reference value (p = 0.05). Of the total genera identified (24), the fungi had a proportion of 37.4% (9/15) and a ratio of 1:1.6. Regarding the total species (34), the fungi had a frequency of 29.42% (10/24) with a ratio between the fungi and bacteria of 1:2.4. A fertility rate of 86% was observed in the L1 group (50 AI sows with doses and mycospermia from T1), and an 82% rate was observed in the L2 group (50 AI sows with doses and mycospermia from T2). The litter size of L1 was 9.63 piglets and 9.56 for L2. Regarding the total number of piglets obtained between the two groups, there was a slight decrease of 22 piglets in group L2, without statistical differences (p > 0.05). The predominant genera persisted after dilution during a 12 h storage at 17 °C, where yeasts, such as Candida parapsilosis and C. sake were identified in more than 92% of AI doses.
listelement.badge.access-status Open Access ,
Ovarian response to P4-PGF-FSH treatment in Suffolk sheep and P4-PGF-PMSG synchronization in cross-bred ewes,for IVD and ET protocol
(Wiley Open Access, 2022-01-17) Ciornei, Ștefan-Gregore; Drugociu, Dan-Gheorghe; Ghineț Ciornei, Liliana-Margareta; Roșca, Petru
Background The success of an embryo transfer protocol in sheep depends on many factors, but the choice of drugs for the desired superovulation as well as the conception rate (CR) are most essential. Reproductive activity in sheep is characterized by a seasonality influenced by several factors such as photoperiod, latitude, temperature, nutrition and breed. Reproductive seasonality and nutritional condition are the main factors that influence embryo production in sheep. In sheep, some anatomical peculiarities limit the application of traditional reproductive biotechnologies used in cattle. Objectives The aim of this study was to conclude on the effectiveness of a wider on farm in vivo embryo transfer development programme in Suffolk sheep by streamlining hormone therapies and optimizing technique. Methods A total number of 60 sheep and three rams were included in this study, divided into two groups (receptors and donors). Donor Suffolk sheep were treated for superovulation using the P4-PGF-FSH multiple ovulation embryo transfer (MOET) protocol, while the cross-bred recipients’ group was synchronized with P4-PGF-PMSG. Results On the first day after superovulation, all ovaries had more than five dominant follicles, while corpora lutea were later observed in 83.3% sheep. The recovery rate was 83.3%, while 72.9% embryos were transferable. Embryos were transferred directly into recipients. Fertility after 30 days was 68.57%, lambing rate was 91.6% and CR was 62.85%. This study showed that veterinary drugs (P4, FSH, LH, PMSG, PGF) used for superovulation optimized by us were capable of producing by this improved technique the optimization of the reproduction indices at embryo-transfer (ET) and to be able to be used successfully. Conclusions The application of an MOET protocol has a positive effect in the production of in vivo embryo production (IVD) embryos in Suffolk sheep and can guarantee the success of embryo transfer activity to ewes with lower genetic merit. Our research aimed at representing a model for sheep farms for a rapid improvement of productive traits.
listelement.badge.access-status Open Access ,
Vagally Associated Second Degree Atrio-Ventricular Block in a Dog with Severe Azotemia and Evidence of Sympathetic Overdrive
(MDPI, 2022-05-05) Baisan, Radu-Andrei; Turcu, Cătălina-Andreea; Condurachi, Eusebiu-Ionuț; Vulpe, Vasile
A 14 years old, 6 kg, mix-breed male dog with severe azotemia due to urinary bladder herniation was presented to our Veterinary Teaching Hospital (VTH). Electrocardiography revealed normal heart rate of 100 bpm, evidence of sinus respiratory arrhythmia (SRA) and frequent second degree atrio-ventricular block following peak inspiratory phase suggestive of vagally-induced atrio-ventricular conduction delay. Echocardiographic examination showed mild mitral regurgitation without any other cardiac changes, and systolic (SAP) and diastolic (DAP) blood pressure values were 185/90 mmHg (SAP/DAP). Cardiac troponin I (cTnI) was increased to 7.3 ng/mL, suggesting a myocardial injury. A Holter examination revealed evidence of overall decrease in heart rate variability with evidence of sympathetic overdrive on time and frequency domain as well as when the non-linear Poincaré plot was analyzed. Based on the author’s knowledge, this is the first report of a second degree atrio-ventricular block associated with vagal activity in a dog, with evidence of sympathetic overdrive and severe azotemia.
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Tunable Properties via Composition Modulations of Poly(vinyl alcohol)/Xanthan Gum/Oxalic Acid Hydrogels
(MDPI, 2022-04-04) Enache, Alexandru-Alin; Serbezeanu, Diana; Vlad Bubulac, Tăchiță; Ipate, Alina-Mirela; Suflet, Dana-Mihaela; Drobotă, Mioara; Barbălată Mândru, Mihaela; Udrea, Radu-Mihail; Rîmbu, Cristina-Mihaela
The design of hydrogel networks with tuned properties is essential for new innovative biomedical materials. Herein, poly(vinyl alcohol) and xanthan gum were used to develop hydrogels by the freeze/thaw cycles method in the presence of oxalic acid as a crosslinker. The structure and morphology of the obtained hydrogels were investigated by means of scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and swelling behavior. The SEM analysis revealed that the surface morphology was mostly affected by the blending ratio between the two components, namely, poly(vinyl alcohol) and xanthan gum. From the swelling study, it was observed that the presence of oxalic acid influenced the hydrophilicity of blends. The hydrogels based on poly(vinyl alcohol) without xanthan gum led to structures with a smaller pore diameter, a lower swelling degree in pH 7.4 buffer solution, and a higher elastic modulus. The antimicrobial activity of the prepared hydrogels was tested and the results showed that the hydrogels conferred antibacterial activity against Gram positive bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus 25923 ATCC) and Gram negative bacteria (Escherichia coli 25922 ATCC).
listelement.badge.access-status Open Access ,
Poly(vinyl alcohol)/Plant Extracts Films: Preparation, Surface Characterization and Antibacterial Studies against Gram Positive and Gram Negative Bacteria
(MDPI, 2022-03-28) Barbălată Mândru, Mihaela; Serbezeanu, Diana; Butnaru, Maria; Rîmbu, Cristina-Mihaela; Enache, Alexandru-Alin; Aflori, Magdalena
In this study, we aim to obtain biomaterials with antibacterial properties by combining poly(vinyl alcohol) with the extracts obtained from various selected plants from Romania. Natural herbal extracts of freshly picked flowers of the lavender plant (Lavandula angustifolia) and leaves of the peppermint plant (Mentha piperita), hemp plant (Cannabis sativa L.), verbena plant (Verbena officinalis) and sage plant (Salvia officinalis folium) were selected after an intensive analyzing of diverse medicinal plants often used as antibacterial and healing agents from the country flora. The plant extracts were characterized by different methods such as totals of phenols and flavonoids content and UV-is spectroscopy. The highest amounts of the total phenolic and flavonoid contents, respectively, were recorded for Salvia officinalis. Moreover, the obtained films of poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) loaded with plant extracts were studied concerning the surface properties and their antibacterial or cytotoxicity activity. The Attenuated Total Reflection Fourier Transform Infrared analysis described the successfully incorporation of each plant extract in the poly(vinyl alcohol) matrix, while the profilometry demonstrated the enhanced surface properties. The results showed that the plant extracts conferred significant antibacterial effects to films toward Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli and are not toxic against fibroblastic cells from the rabbit.
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Composite Materials Based on Gelatin and Iron Oxide Nanoparticles for MRI Accuracy
(MDPI, 2022-05-12) Drobotă, Mioara; Vlad, Stelian; Grădinaru, Luiza-Mădălina; Bargan, Alexandra; Radu, Iulian; Butnaru, Maria; Rîmbu, Cristina-Mihaela; Ciobanu, Romeo-Cristian; Aflori, Magdalena
The majority of recent studies have focused on obtaining MRI materials for internal use. However, this study focuses on a straightforward method for preparing gelatin-based materials with iron oxide nanoparticles (G–Fe2O3 and G–Fe3O4) for external use. The newly obtained materials must be precisely tuned to match the requirements and usage situation because they will be in close touch with human/animal skin. The biocompatible structures formed by gelatin, tannic acid, and iron oxide nanoparticles were investigated by using FTIR spectroscopy, SEM-EDAX analysis, and contact angle methods. The physico-chemical properties were obtained by using mechanical investigations, dynamic vapor sorption analysis, and bulk magnetic determination. The size and shape of iron oxide nanoparticles dictates the magnetic behavior of the gelatin-based samples. The magnetization curves revealed a typical S-shaped superparamagnetic behavior which is evidence of improved MRI image accuracy. In addition, the MTT assay was used to demonstrate the non-toxicity of the samples, and the antibacterial test confirmed satisfactory findings for all G-based materials.

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