bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Methylene Blue Test in Assessing Disease Free Margins in Lingual Carcinoma Resection
Authors: Hainarosie Razvan , Zainea Viorel , Hainarosie Mura , Pietrosanu Catalina , Ionita Irina , Pituru Silviu , Stefanescu Dragos Cristian
Published: February 2020

Lingual squamous cell carcinoma is one of the most frequent localization of the oral carcinomas. The tongue neoplasia represents nearly 40% of the oral carcinomas. Recent studies showed an increasing trend of lingual carcinoma in young patients. Several staining tests have been described to early detect the disease. After detection, disease free margins resection will increase the survival rate. This study aims to analyze the methylene blue staining test in achieving disease free resection margins in lingual squamous cell carcinoma.
Thermal Ageing of Some Insulating Fluids in Contact with Insulation Paper and Copper
Authors: Lingvay Iosif , Oprina Gabriela , Ungureanu Livia Carmen , Pica Alexandra , Stanoi Valerica
Published: February 2020

The behaviour of copper and insulation paper in various electrical insulating fluids (transformer oils) exposed to thermal ageing at 110�30C for 1000 hours in closed vessels (without access to atmospheric oxygen) has been studied. The processing of the comparative experimental data revealed in all cases that the concentration of dissolved oxygen in the investigated oils decreases exponentially during the heat treatment. In the presence of the copper foil, the oxygen is almost depleted (the dissolved oxygen concentration is approaching zero), indicating a higher affinity of the copper to oxygen than the affinity to oxygen of the investigated oils. In the presence of the copper foil and / or of the insulation paper, the degradation processes of the mineral oils have a pronounced character, explained by the catalytic activity of the Cu2O film that has been formed and by the paper degradation, respectively. A high thermo-oxidative stability was noticed in the case of natural triglyceride oils, particularly for the synthetic ester-based oil.
The Prognostic Value of Left Bundle Branch Block and Biochemical Parameters in Alcoholic Dilated Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Costache Irina Iuliana , Namat Razan Al , Mitu Florin , Ciocoiu Manuela , Aursulesei Viviana , Mitu Ovidiu , Costache Alexandru Dan , Marcu Dragos , Buburuz Ana Maria
Published: February 2020

Alcoholic cardiomyopathy is one of the main causes of dilated cardiomyopathy. The aim of this study was to review biochemical and electrocardiographic parameters on a group of patients diagnosed with alcoholic cardiomyopathy in order to see which correlates with a poor outcome. The analysis showed different degrees of hyponatremia, without a statistically significant correlation to outcome. We did not find a positive connection between the impaired renal function and severe evolution. On the other hand, LBBB presence was strongly correlated with the poor outcome (p[0.00001). We emphasize the importance of alcoholic dilated cardiomyopathy proportions in the study group and the prognostic value of LBBB presence for negative outcome.
Microstructure and Cavitation Erosion Resistance of the X2CrNiMoN22-5-3 Duplex Stainless Steel Subjected to Laser Nitriding
Authors: Mitelea Ion , Bordeasu Ilare , Micu Lavinia Madalina , Craciunescu Corneliu Marius
Published: February 2020

The recent development in enhancing the corrosion resistance of materials by covering with powdered layers open the way to use the procedure also for cavitation erosion protection, phenomenon always present in hydraulic machinery runners as well as ship propellers. The present research analyzes the behavior of four different types copper layers, deposited with high velocity flames, HVOF upon specimens realized from cast steel for general use 270-480 W (equivalent with OT500-3 used in Romania), to cavitation erosion in a Laboratory device. Even if the powder density and the layers thickness have close values, the behavior to cavitation erosion is different and depend primarily on the powder chemical composition and the microscopic structure.
Iodized Salt Between Myth and Reality: Assessment of Iodine Content in Table Salt Commercially Available in Romania
Authors: Brezean Iulian , Ferechide Dumitru , Lupusoru Mircea , Barbilian Adrian , Moga Marius , Lupusoru Gabriela Elena , Vilcu Mihaela Emanuela , Pantea Ileana
Published: February 2020

About 1/3 of the world population lives in areas where iodine is scarce. The easiest solution to provide an organism with adequate iodine doses is the iodization of table salt, a process implemented in about 120 countries. Romanian laws require the iodization of salt used for human consumption. The purpose of our study is to assess the iodine concentration of various table salt brands commercially available in Romania, from different countries � Ukraine, Belarus, Greece, Italy, Turkey, Austria, to see if they comply with accepted standards and compare them with those in our country. An iodometric titration method was used for analyzing the iodine content of the salt samples. The analysis of the samples indicate that a great proportion do not meet accepted standards regarding iodine concentration.
Metabolic Abnormalities and Spectroscopy Biochemical Cerebral Compounds Modifications in Children and Adolescents with Antipsychotic Treatment
Authors: Talpos Cristina , Ageu Luminita , Crisan Simina , Zamfir Carmen Lacramioara , Poroch Vladimir , Anghel Mirela
Published: February 2020

We approach an integrated, multidisciplinary, innovative research-action model in children and adolescents with psychosis. Our main focus was: to investigate the biochemical cerebral compounds and metabolites (NAA-N-acetylaspartate, GABA-Gama-Aminobutyric Acid, Asp-Aspartate, CR-Creatine, Gln-Glutamine, GPC-Glicerophosphocholine, PC-Phosphocholine, PCr-Phosphocreatine, Tau-Taurine, N-MDA-N-Metyl-D-Aspartate, Serine, Glicine, Cho-Choline); the neuroimagistic and neurobiological markers and the metabolic abnormalities in correlation with the molecular pharmacogenetic testing in psychoses, treated with antipsychotic medication; the dynamic evaluation of the clinical evolution for the studied groups in correlation with specific biochemical, metabolic, neurobiological and neuroimagistic variables and markers. Our research was conducted in the period 2010-2016 on 85 patients, children and adolescents with psychosis (42 took treatment after pharmacogenetic testing, 43 without). Also, the patients were evaluated through magnetic resonance (MR) spectroscopy at baseline and after pharmacotherapy. The efficacy of the chosen therapy in correlation with the pharmacogenetic testing was evaluated through the mean change in the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) total scores, in the Clinical Global Impression Severity (CGI-S/I), Clinical Global Assessment of Functioning (CGAS) and through the change registered for the relevant biochemical, metabolic, neurobiological markers and MR spectroscopy metabolites, from baseline till endpoint in different timepoints. Our results, showed statistically significant differences of the clinical scores between the studied groups. Our research was a proof, that the biochemical brain metabolites register in psychoses modified values in the MR Spectroscopy, the administration of antipsychotics can determine metabolic abnormalities (changed lipid profiles, high insulin and blood sugar levels, weight gain, obesity). But on the other side, if the antipsychotic treatment is chosen properly according to the pharmacogenetic profile of the patient, then the biochemical metabolites obtained through the MR Spectroscopy, register improvement of the values correlated with the good clinical evolution.
Setting Some Milestones when Modelling Cell Gene Expression Regulatory Circuits Under Variable-Volume Whole-cell Modelling Framework. I. Generalities
Authors: Maria Gheorghe , Scoban Andreea Georgiana
Published: February 2020

The whole-cell simulation of cell metabolic processes under considering a variable-volume modelling framework has been reviewed to prove their advantages when building-up modular model structures that can reproduce complex protein syntheses inside cells. The more realistic whole-cell-variable-volume (WCVV) approach is exemplified when developing modular kinetic representations of the homeostatic gene expression regulatory modules (GERM) that control the protein synthesis and homeostasis of metabolic processes. In the first part, the general concepts of the WCVV modelling is presented, while in the second part of the paper, past and current experience with GERM linking rules is presented in order to point-out how optimized globally efficient kinetic models for the genetic regulatory circuits (GRC) can be obtained to reproduce experimental observations. Based on quantitative regulatory indices evaluated vs. simulated dynamic and stationary environmental perturbations, the paper exemplifies with GERM-s from E. coli, at a generic level, how this methodology can be extended: i) to characterize the module efficiency, species connectivity and system stability; ii) to build-up modular regulatory chains of various complexity; iii) to prove feasibility of the cooperative vs. concurrent construction that ensures an efficient gene expression, system homeostasis, proteic functions and a balanced cell growth during the cell cycle; iv) to prove the effect of the whole-cell content ballast in smoothing the effect of internal/external perturbations on the system homeostasis.
Assessment of Heavy Metals Pollution of Snagov Lake, Romania
Authors: Stefan Daniela Simina , Neacsu Nicoleta , Pascu Luoana Florentina , Serbanescu Cristina , Stefan Mircea
Published: February 2020

Distribution of heavy metals and trace elements from anthropogenic origin in water, sediments, aquatic plants and different tissues of fish from Snagov Lake, Romania. has been investigated. The concentration of Cu, Zn, Cd, Ti, V, Cr, Mo, Co and Ni, was collected from three sites of the lake, during spring time from water, sediments, Ceratophyllum demersum, Phragmites australis reed, and Scardinius Erytrophtalmus fish. The fish samples were taken from gills, muscles, scales and bones. The ecological risk index has been assesed and bio-concentration factor, (BCF), of metals in anatomical tissues of studied fishes to be used as a diagnostic tool for lake pollution Experiments have shown that Ti and Zn had the highest concentration in water, sediments, aquatic plants and fish samples. Also, the metals bio-concentration is increased in branchiae and scales, compared with muscles and bones.
Contributions Regarding the Influence of the Antibacterial Chemical Deposits on the Surface of the Oral Implant of the Ti10Zr Bio-alloy on Its Behaviour During Use
Authors: Vasilescu Vlad Gabriel , Vasilescu Elisabeta , Semenescu Augustin , Florea Bogdan , Mates Ileana Mariana , Chivu Oana Roxana
Published: February 2020

The antioxidant and disinfectant properties of silver have been known for a long time, but explaining its antibacterial mechanism was only possible through the modern methods of investigation and analysis, such as radioactive isotopes and the electron microscopy. The effective forms of silver that determine the microbial inhibition are the silver salts, and the optimal antimicrobial effect is obtained by releasing continuously a moderate amount of silver ions. On the other hand, many studies show that the size and shape of the silver nanoparticles play a key role in their antibacterial activity. The paper presents some results of the research regarding the chemical deposition of the metallic silver with antibacterial role on the oral implant of the Ti10Zr bio-alloy. The research was conducted in the Chemistry Laboratory of the Sciences and Environment Faculty from the Lower Danube University of Galati. To establish the optimum chemical deposition conditions of the metallic silver we used several experimental regimes in different conditions of experimentation. The paper presents the experimental results obtained when introducing the implants to be covered in the Tollens�s reagent following the influence of the hold time in the solution on the character of the deposition, on the dispersion, on the deposition uniformity and on particle size deposited. To cover chemically with metallic Ag we used solutions prepared with chemically pure reagents and bidistilled water under experimental regimes of chemical deposition. Electron microscopy analyses with electron scanning (SEM) and the EDX elemental analysis revealed the presence of the silver on the surface of implants, the degree of dispersion and the morphology of silver particles deposited according to the experimental regimes.
New Aspects Concerning Sulphur Hexafluoride Use As Contrast Agent for Ultrasonographyc Diagnosis
Authors: Timofte Oana , Stefanescu Gabriela , Gologan Elena , Balan Gheorghe G. , Toader Elena , Balan Gheorghe
Published: February 2020

Introduction of contrast agents as microbubbles and to improve ultrasound examination techniques has increased the rate of detection and characterization of liver lesions. Contrast-enhanced ultrasonography (CEUS) is a relatively new method of exploring the liver and diagnosing focal liver lesions (FLL). The aim of this study is to determine the efficiency of microbubbles used for CEUS in managing patients detected in conventional ultrasonography with FLL. We examined 84 patients with FLL, detected on conventional ultrasonography (US), during October 2012-September 2015. We performed contrast-enhanced ultrasonography, using sulphur hexafluoride as a contrast agent, and contrast-enhanced MRI to set the diagnosis. For 37 patients (44.1%) CEUS showed a malignity pattern of enhancement (according to the EFSUMB - European Federation of Societies for Ultrasound in Medicine and Biology- Guidelines 2012), while for 54 (64.3%) patients MRI set the diagnosis of malignity. CEUS detected fewer malignant lesions than MRI, in 20.1% of the cases MRI set de diagnosis. We need further studies in order to improve the quality of CEUS images and technique.
Determination of the Safety Distances Between Natural Gas Transmission Pipelines and Facilities in their Proximity
Authors: Zecheru Gheorghe , Lambrescu Ionut
Published: February 2020

The paper presents the particularities of accomplishing risk analyses with the purpose of establishing the safety distances � SD, between the pipes belonging to the natural gas national transmission system � NTS and facilities (people, animals, buildings, crops, orchards, forests etc.) placed in the their vicinity. In order to check if the distances between the National Gas Transportation Pipeline- NGTP and neighboring facilities are SD, the authors developed a procedure and a software for the risk assessment, which make use of a set of formulas validated by experimental results presented in the paper and information from the data base (built by the authors and presented briefly in our work) regarding the supervision of the technical state and recording of the accidents that took place in the last 19 years on the NGTP from NTS. Also, in the paper, one describes the way the technical solutions verified using the procedure and the software built by the authors can be selected and ranked (in view of implementation) by applying the ALARP principle and the cost � benefit analysis.
A New Approach to Study the Sweetener�s Effect on Green Tea Oxidative Status
Authors: Savescu Petre
Published: February 2020

Choosing the best sweetener for the green tea can face/be a big problem due to several composition changes that the green tea registers during the sweetening process, the level of gained toxicity, the different health level of the consumers (especially those with diabetes, cardiovascular or digestive problems, allergies). The additives management (especially for certain categories such as sweeteners, food coloring or preservatives) it�s a big issue for both technologists and also any treating physicians. By adding some sweeteners, food coloring or preservatives, food products with a higher sensitive quality but also with a higher risk potential for consumers with certain health problems are obtained. This paper presents a personal method to determine the best natural or synthetic sweetener that can be used without any problems when sweetening the green tea from a free contamination area.
Determination of Acidity, Total Polyphenols Content, Calcium, Magnesium and Phosphorous in Sea Buckthorn Berries
Authors: Cioroi Maria , Chiriac Elena Roxana , Stefan Claudia Simona
Published: February 2020

In Romania the sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides) is prevalent naturally grown in hills territories, Meridional and Eastern Carpathians valleys from Moldavia and Muntenia and also in the Danube Delta. It is a valuable medicinal plant being a rich source of all nutrients and phytochemicals. This paper presents the results of analyzes performed on sea buckthorn berries collected from two geographical areas: Bacau and Buzau. The juice of sea buckthorn fruits, the calcined pulp and the calcined integral fruits were analysed. Physico-chemical analysis of integral sea buckthorn berries showed: pH values in the range 3.1-3.3, acidity expressed as malic acid in the range 1.97-2.02% and polyphenols content in the range 94.65 mg GAE/g d.w. and 78.33 mg GAE/g d.w., respectively. Macro elements as Ca, Mg and P were also determined. The amount of calcium in sea buckthorn fruit was found in the range 57.71 - 80 mg/100g d.w., magnesium in the range 30.56-35.61 mg/100g d.w., and phosphorus 5.34-20.56 mg/100g d.w.
On Some Chemico-Mineralogical Transformations in a Petroleum Reservoir Exploited by In-situ Combustion
Authors: Branoiu Gheorghe , Cristescu Tudora
Published: February 2020

In-situ combustion is a thermal recovery technique in which a part of the heavy oil in place is burnt to generate heat. This heat brings about a reduction in viscosity of the crude oil to lead to the improvement of the mobility and hence oil production rate and recovery. Typical combustion front moves slow (some cm/day) through reservoir matrix (pores) by consuming the fuel as it moves ahead. The combustion zone is often a few centimeters in thickness and it has a temperature up to 700-800oC. The hydrothermal conditions that occur in front of and behind the combustion zone may generate chemico-mineralogical transformations following or not from a new minerals forming. In the paper the authors emphasize for the first time calcium silicates hydrate forming in the matrix of siliciclastic rocks from oil reservoirs exploited by in-situ combustion.
Good Glycemic Control for a Low Cardiovascular Risk in Children Suffering from Diabets
Authors: Busila Camelia , Stuparu Mariana Cretu , Nechita Aurel , Grigore Camelia Ana , Balan Gabriela
Published: February 2020

The study is a prospective and operational one, ant its was conducted on 58 patients with diabetes type 1 and 2. The patients sex distribution was homogenious and they come from both rural and urban environment. The statistical analisys was carried out using the programme SPSS 17.0 for Windows. The distribution normality was cheked using the Kolmogorov - Smirnov Z test. he values of glycemia, glycosylated hemoglobin, lipid panel, blood pressure have been measured and compared to the ones belonging to the control group.
Effects of Anions on Adsorption of Trace Levels of Cu(II), Pb(II) and Cr(VI) by Amino-Functionalized Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Sucurovic Aleksandra , Trickovic Jelena , Maletic Snezana , Isakovski Marijana Kragulj , Kukovecz Akos , Prica Miljana , Dalmacija Bozo
Published: February 2020

This work studies the adsorption of heavy metal ions (Cu(II), Pb(II) and Cr(VI)) in aqueous solutions on amino-functionalized multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs-NH2) in the ppb concentration range (50-3000 �g/l) as a function of contact time, initial concentration of heavy metal ions and the presence of four inorganic electrolyte anions (Cl-, SO42-, NO3-, PO43-). The adsorption of heavy metals from aqueous solution was studied using different kinetic models. The results showed that the adsorption process is best fitted with the pseudo-second-order model indicating that the process is controlled by chemisorptions through electrostatic attraction and chemical interaction/complexation between the metal ions and the surface functional groups of MWCNTs-NH2. The intra-particle diffusion model showed that diffusion is slow, but did not govern the rate of the overall adsorption process. The effects of Cl-, SO42-, NO3- and PO43- anions on the adsorption of Cu(II), Pb(II) and Cr(VI) are variable (improvement, reduction, no impact).
Pharmacological Principles Used in Patient Monitoring with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Pelin Ana Maria , Gavat Cristian Catalin , Balan Gabriela , Georgescu Costinela Valerica
Published: February 2020

This study assessed the medication used in type 2 diabetes treatment, depending on the glycaemia level and set out the oral anti-diabetics which are recommended, in three study stages: admission, hospitalization and discharge. Eighty patients were selected and diagnosed with diabetes mellitus 2 type, who were registered in the diabetes and nutrition diseases department within Sf. Apostol Andrei Galati Hospital. They were subjected to a series of laboratory tests: blood count, glycosylated haemoglobin, glycaemia level. It were established main classes of anti-diabetic drugs outpatient used and the main types of anti-diabetic agents administrated to patients requiring hospitalization, compared to high glycaemia values. It was given also, the medication used to normalize blood glucose levels during hospitalization and also at discharge. The biguanides associated with sulphonylureas drugs did not provide an adequate glycaemia control, so insulin must be combined with Metformin to normalize blood glucose levels as soon as possible. Glycaemia control was improved and the hypoglycaemia risk was reduced regarding obese patient undergoing treatment with insulin, to whom biguanides were administered.
Assessment of the Effects of Several Products of Dental Use After Topical Administration to Different Mice Strain
Authors: Popovici Ramona Amina , Todor Liana , Balean Octavia , Motoc Ovidiu , Podariu Angela Codruta
Published: February 2020

Products frequently used in dental practice most often come into contact with tissues and cells and frequently produce their injury. The aim of the present study was to assess the effects of different products of dental use on cutaneous physiological parameters after topical application to hairless and colored mice. In order to conduct the present study, we used as materials the following solutions: Chlorhexidine digluconate 2%, Chlumsky and Walkhoff solutions and, also, SKH 1 and C57BL/6J mice. The mice were divided in 4 groups: control � no interventions, group 1 � Chlorhexidine solution was applied on the dorsal side of the mice, group 2 � mice were treated with Chlumsky solution and group 3 � mice that received Walkhoff. The treatment was applied daily for 5 days and skin parameters (melanin, erythema and hydration) were measured by the means of non-invasive techniques (mexametry and corneometry). After sacrification, samples of skin and internal organs were histopathological analyzed. Our data showed that topical administration of the three solutions was associated with changes in skin parameters values, such as: an increased erythema value and a decreased hydration status in all three groups as compared to control, but especially in the group of mice that received Walkhoff solution, results that were independent of mice strain. The toxicity of these solutions was confirmed by histological analysis.
The Influence of Isothermal Annealing and Structural Defects on Properties of Amorphous Fe78Si11B11 with High Magnetization Saturation
Authors: Bloch Katarzyna
Published: February 2020

This paper presents the results of numerical analysis of the primary magnetization curves, which were obtained under the assumptions of the theory of approach to ferromagnetic saturation described in by H. Kronm�ller. Test samples of the Fe78Si11B11 alloy were tape-shaped materials, which were subjected to isothermal annealing, not causing their crystallization. The investigated ribbons (tapes) were characterized by a very high saturation magnetization value of approximately 2T, which the thermal treatment has increased by about 10%. It was found that reason for the change of saturation magnetization of the investigated samples was the local rearrangement of atoms due to diffusion processes leading to the release of free volumes to the surface and combining of them into larger unstable defects called pseudodislocational dipoles.
Local Silver Nanoparticles Administration Promotes Inflammation and Hyperalgesia in Rats
Authors: Alexa Anisia Iuliana , Stratulat Teodora Alexa , Leon Constantin Maria Magdalena , Alexa Ioana Dana , Tamba Bogdan Ionel
Published: February 2020

Silver has no known function in the organism. However, nanosilver has the highest degree of commercialization of all nanomaterials used in healthcare. The aim of this study was to assess the potential deleterious effect of local nanosilver administration in an animal model. Wistar rats received a subcutaneous injection (hind paw) of either 500ppm nanosilver (group S1), 20ppm nanosilver (group S2) or saline (control group). Animals were tested by means of plantar test, analgesy-meter and plethysmometer. 24 h after the administration, l-carrageenan was injected (same site), which lead to localized inflammation. The above-mentioned assessments were performed repeatedly until 24 h after l-carrageenan administration. 24 h after colloidal silver administration, both S1 and S2 groups had a significantly higher sensibility to mechanical stimuli. 48 h after colloidal silver administration, the S1 group had a significantly higher sensibility to thermal stimuli. Paw edema was more pronounced in the treatment groups in the first 30 h after the nanosilver injection. Local subcutaneous nanosilver administration leads to an increased inflammatory response and to hyperalgesia. Considering the constant increase in nanosilver�s biomedical use, the current paper sends a clear warning for the need of urgent more in-depth research on the matter.
Water Quality Analysis in Wetlands Freshwater: Common Floodplain of Jijia-Prut Rivers
Authors: Romanescu Gheorghe , Pascal Madalina , Pintilie Alin Mihu , Stoleriu Cristian Constantin , Sandu Ion , Moisii Madalina
Published: February 2020

Water resources in the Jijia catchment basin are limited and often polluted. The catchment basin of Jijia is situated in northeastern Romania and it crosses the Moldavian Plain on the north-west-south-east direction. The purpose of the present study is to analyze 26 physico-chemical parameters providing the annual and multiannual water quality index. Two water-sampling points were selected: Jijia-Victoria [S.1] and Jijia-Opriseni [S.2]. The high values of nitrates are caused by the use of nitrogen-based chemical fertilizers and of manure. Contamination with nitrites (N-NO2-) and nitrates (N-NO3-) of wetlands and deepwater habitats in the floodplain of Jijia is still high because of agricultural and zootechnical activities. The phosphorus within freshwater habitats is a consequence of anthropogenic pressure: improper storage of animal waste and/or use of phosphates-based fertilizers. Global water quality index (WQi) shows that both monitoring stations are included in the Medium high class.
Factorial Design for Optimization of Microwave Assisted Synthesis of 5-Hydroxymethylfurfural
Authors: Gavrila Adina Ionuta , Asofiei Ioana , Chipurici Petre
Published: February 2020

Synthesis of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (5-HMF) by microwave assisted dehydration of fructose was performed under various operating conditions. A statistical analysis based on a 23 factorial plan was used to optimize the synthesis process. Operating temperature (110, 130 �C), specific mass of HCl catalyst (0.4, 0.6 mg/mgs), and reaction time (8, 12 min) were selected as process factors. A regression equation linking the process performance expressed as 5-HMF yield (7.40-30.60%) to process factors was established. The statistical model emphasized a better performance for higher levels of all process factors.
The Examination of the Effects of Relative Humidity on the Changes of Tropospheric Ozone Concentrations in the Ciuc Basin, Romania
Authors: Szep Robert , Keresztes Reka , Tonk Szende , Korodi Attila , Craciun Mihaela Emanuela
Published: February 2020

As ozone is a secondary polluting substance, its oxides of nitrogen (NOx) play a significant role as precursors. Their existence is influenced by climatological and meteorological parameters, as well as other air pollutants (SOA, VOC). At present, alongside with various meteorological parameters (temperature, wind speed, relative humidity, sun intensity), other air pollutants (oxides of nitrogen, carbon monoxide, benzene) and other physical phenomena (dry deposition, meteoric stability) mostly the indirect effects of relative air humidity was examined in relation with the evolution of tropospheric ozone concentration. Our aim was, to examine the closed experiment of Jia and Xu (2014) (smog chamber), under atmospheric conditions, according to which in the case of high relative humidity the formation of ozone falls if benzene and ethylbenzene are added. According to the results, relative humidity has an increasing effect on water radical reactions and the hydration of glyoxal, while the concentration of the ozone changes as a result. At the same time, it can be observed that the higher the value of relative humidity is, the higher are also the values of ONO2, benzene and CO, whereas the concentration of O3 decreases. The reactions caused by the relative humidity of the air and VOC concentration in the experiment of Jia and Xu (2014) produced relatively adversary demonstrations in natural environment, because the experiment had been carried out at room temperature, whereas temperature and other parameters are subject to constant change in the natural environment.
Evaluation of Antioxidant Capacity of Plant Extracts Using Flow Cytometry
Authors: Ionescu Daniela , Isaia (Oarcea) Ancuta Ioana , Gafencu Mihai , Bolintineanu Sorin , Cata Adina , Bratosin Daniela , Toader Lavinia , Ienascu Ioana Maria Carmen
Published: February 2020

This study is aimed to evaluate the inhibitory effect of natural extracts on reactive oxygen species (ROS) in human red cells (RBCs) under oxidative stress and to demonstrate the importance of using natural extracts from plants in the fight against oxidative stress. Therefore, seven nonalcoholic extracts were tested at several dilutions, in order to prove their antioxidant activity using flow cytometry. The level of intracellular hydrogen peroxide significantly decreased when the cells were coincubated with different extracts, the values of the Mean Fluorescence Intensity (MFI) ranging from 206 to 3702, compared with 3872, the value obtained in case of H2O2-treated cells (RBCs + H2O2). All the tested extracts demonstrated a good inhibition, Melissa officinalis L. extract showed a greater percentage of hydrogen peroxide inhibition even at the last dilution (94.70% (D-a)�.85.76% (D-e)). The results suggest the importance of the investigated natural extracts to combat oxidative stress.
Evaluation of in Vitro Reducing Effect of Several Vegetable Extracts on the Digestive Bioavailability of Heavy Metals
Authors: Apostu Mihai , Tantaru Gladiola , Vieriu Madalina , Panainte Alina Diana , Bibire Nela , Agoroaei Luminita
Published: February 2020

The study aimed at assessing the in vitro digestive bioavailability of heavy metals in the presence of plant extracts under simulated digestive system conditions. The complexing ability of aqueous herbal extracts of Crataegus sp., Tilia spp., Rosa canina, Vaccinium myrtillus, Geranium robertianum, Mentha piperita, Cynara cardunculus subsp. Scolymus, Plantago sp., and Coriandrum sativum was researched on Cu+2, Cd+2, Ni+2, Pb+2 and Hg+2 cations. The quantitative determination of the fraction of free metal left, available for absorption, was achieved by atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) or potentiometry using an ion-selective electrode (ISE).
Remagnetization Core Losses In The Massive Amorphous FeCoYb Alloy
Authors: Bloch Katarzyna , Nabialek Marcin , Gruszka Konrad
Published: February 2020

In this paper were studied the influence of magnetic field frequency and induction on the total core power loss � which is divided into eddy current loss, hysteresis loss and anomally losses of the bulk amorphous alloy. The total core power loss of the investigated bulk amorphous alloy increases with magnetic field frequency and peak induction. It follows a power relation similar to what has been observed in classical ribbons. In the investigated alloy in addition to losses due to magnetic hysteresis and eddy currents, other additional losses are present. However additional losses, emerging simultaneously to the component associated with migration relaxations are very weakly dependent on the frequency and temperature.
Relevance of the Cardiac Biomarkers in Children with Heart Disease Admitted for Severe Cardiac Pathology
Authors: Doros Gabriela , Olariu Cristina , Ardelean Andrada Mara , Stroescu Ramona , Gafencu Mihai
Published: February 2020

Heart disease in children can be congenital or acquired. Most congenital heart malformations have specific hemodynamics, producing either volume overload, pressure overload or both, that will finally determine myocardial cell damage, with complications like heart failure and sometime severe pulmonary hypertension. The understanding and management of pediatric patients with heart disease is mandatory in order to have the ability to influence the outcome. Cardiovascular biomarkers play a vital role in adult cardiology, influencing both the diagnosis and the prognostic, however there is still a gap in the pediatric field. We decided to study the relevance of cardiac biomarkers as: NT proBNP, Troponin T and hs-CRP, in the diagnosis and follow up of the pediatric patients with heart disease admitted for severe acute/chronic symptomes or patology, hoping that in future, cardiac biomarkers will be current used in the assessment of children with heart disease.
Coupling Nicotiana tabaccum Transgenic Plants with Rhizophagus irregularis for Phytoremediation of Heavy Metal Polluted Areas
Authors: Neagoe Aurora , Tenea Gabriela , Cucu Natalia , Ion Stelian , Iordache Virgil
Published: February 2020

Several studies have shown that hairy roots (HRs) can increase the phytoextraction of organic and inorganic pollutants. In addition, microorganisms colonizing the rhizosphere of hairy roots have demonstrated the efficacy of HRs either in removing or in stabilizing of pollutants. This growth chamber study aimed to determine the effect of colonization by the arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungus (Rhizophagus irregularis) on the HRs of tobacco (Nicotiana tabaccum L. cv. Virginia gold) under heavy metals (Cu, Pb and Zn) conditions. Seedlings of N. tabacum were grown in contaminated substrate without infection caused by Agrobacterium rhizogenes expressed in the form of HRs disease, a second one with infection, and the third treatment contained AM fungus beside the A. rhizogenes infection. In the order they have been described, these treatments were coded with C, CT and CTM. The experiment demonstrated that HRs mutants resisted better in terms of higher biomass content in the contaminated soil than the normal plants. Even more, the transgenic plants also had a very strong interaction with mycorrhizal fungi. Thus, soil respiration, biomass and some biochemical variables such as assimilating pigments, protein content and lipid peroxidation indicate a decrease in stress due to the presence of heavy metals in the CTM treatment. Furthermore, CTM treatment significantly alleviated the concentration of toxic elements in plants, compared with the CT treatment, in which a significant increase was registered when compared to treatment C.
Characterization of Heavy Metals Atmospheric Deposition for Assessment of Environmental Quality in Urban and Surrounding Areas
Authors: Stihi Claudia , Radulescu Cristiana , Dulama Ioana Daniela , Bute Oana Catalina , Bucurica Ioan Alin
Published: February 2020

The atmospheric deposition of Cu, Cd and Pb in urban and surrounding areas was investigated by using mosses as bioindicators. A total of 92 moss samples were collected from central and south-west parts of Romania. The content of Cu, Cd and Pb was determined by graphite furnace/flame atomic absorption spectrometry. Median values for Cu (8.217 mg/kg dw), Cd (1.299 mg/kg dw) and Pb (29.844 mg/kg dw) are high compared to other European countries. The evaluation of the sampling sites contamination was made using the contamination factor. Sites with a severe contamination with Cd and Pb were identified.
Improving the Protection of Children Against Air Pollution Threats in Romania � The RokidAIR Project Approach and Future Perspectives
Authors: Liu Hai-Ying , Dunea Daniel , Oprea Mihaela , Savu Tom , Iordache Stefania
Published: February 2020

This paper presents the approach used to develop the information chain required to reach the objectives of the EEA Grants� RokidAIR project in two Romanian cities i.e., Targoviste and Ploiesti. It describes the PM2.5 monitoring infrastructure and architecture to the web-based GIS platform, the early warning system and the decision support system, and finally, the linking of air pollution to health effects in children. In addition, it shows the analysis performance of the designed system to process the collected time series from various data sources using the benzene concentrations monitored in Ploiesti. Moreover, this paper suggests that biomarkers, mobile technologies, and Citizens� Observatories are potential perspectives to improve data coverage by the provision of near-real-time air quality maps, and provide personal exposure and health assessment results, enabling the citizens� engagement and behavioural change. This paper also addresses new fields in nature-based solutions to improve air quality, and studies on air pollution and its mental health effects in the urban areas of Romania.
ATR-FTIR and SEM-EDS Analyses of Lumea Noua Painted Pottery from Alba Iulia-Lumea Noua Neolithic Site
Authors: Bintintan Alina , Gligor Mihai , Dulama Ioana Daniela , Teodorescu Sofia , Stirbescu Raluca Maria , Radulescu Cristiana
Published: February 2020

This study aims to investigatea possible link between the painted pottery from the Alba Iulia-Lumea Nou� settlement and the potential clay sources identified in the proximity of the archaeological site. Sixteen samples (clay and pottery) were collected and afterwards analyzed through two analytical techniques (attenuated total reflection - Fourier transform infrared spectrometry and scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy dispersive spectrometry). The recorded data show similarities for both techniques and give preliminary information regarding the clay composition used for pottery manufacturing in middle Neolithic. Cluster analysis using Average Linkage method correlated the clay sources with the analyzed painted pottery.
Comparative Antioxidant Properties of Juniperus communis L. and Juniperus virginiana L. Extracts Obtained by Refluxing and Sonication Methods
Authors: Plesa Carmen Manuela , Ardelean Aurel , Pascariu Mihai Cosmin , Lupea Alfa Xenia
Published: February 2020

The aim of this study was to evaluate the antioxidant activity of ethyl acetate and tetrahydrofuran extracts of Juniperus berries, branches and needles, by using the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay. Two Juniperus species, Juniperus communis and Juniperus virginiana, from different regions were used. The extracts obtained by sonication and refluxing extraction were studied by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, which revealed that the Romanian juniper extracts are largely comprised of monoterpene hydrocarbons, such as a-pinene, b-pinene, b-hellandrene, sabinene, b-cadinene, t-cadinene, b-caryophyllene, b-cubebene, b-elemene and germacrene D. The antioxidant activity was highest in ethyl acetate Juniperus communis needles extract from Lipova (Romania) and in ethyl acetate Juniperus virginiana branches extract from Macea Botanical Garden (Romania). The mean rates (vm) of DPPH consumption were higher for the tetrahydrofuran Juniperus communis branches extract from Lipova and ethyl acetate Juniperus virginiana branches extract than in tetrahydrofuran Juniperus communis berries extract from Lipova.
Alkyl Isocyanides Promoted Synthesis of Functionalized Azadienes from Dialkyl Acetylene Dicarboxylates and N-Hydroxysuccinimide
Authors: Pour Zahra Kheiri , Mohtat Bita , Djahaniani Hoorieh
Published: February 2020

The reaction between N-Hydroxy succinimide with dialkyl acetylene dicarboxylates in the presence of isocyanides, leads to functionalized azadienes in good yields. The product were analized and the structures of reaction compounds were deduced from their IR, 1HNMR and 13CNMR spectra.
The Role of Peroxide Based Bleaching Agents in the Induction of Tooth Sensitivity
Authors: Ciavoi Gabriela , Bechir Anamaria , Suciu Mircea , Bechir Edwin Sever , Doda Lura , Olteanu Cristian , Dascalu Ionela Teodora
Published: February 2020

Tooth whitening is increasingly requested lately due to increased aesthetic demands of patients. The aim of our study was to analyse if there are differences, in terms of tooth sensitivity, between at-home and in-office bleaching agents used in tooth whitening, and also, if a higher concentration of bleaching agents leads to increased the tooth sensitivity. We used four bleaching agents in our study, two at-home use (Opalescence PF �Ultradent, with 10% and 20% concentration), and two in-office use (Opalescence Boost 40% - Ultradent and Pola Office 35% - SDI). The studied patients (161) were divided into four groups, after the used bleaching agent. After the tooth whitening procedures, the patients were recalled twice a week for two weeks, so that we conducted four sessions of determining the tooth sensitivity. The results showed that the patients with higher tooth sensitivity were from those with at-home whitening procedures, with a lower concentration of the peroxide-based bleaching agents.
Human Dentine Remineralization Under Non-colagen Materials Action
Authors: Zaharia Agripina , Plescan Viorica Ghisman , Anghel Elena Maria , Musat Viorica
Published: February 2020

The purpose of this work is to induce biomimetic remineralization of acid etched coronal human dentine in artificial saliva (AS) under agarose (A) hydrogel or chitosan (CS)-A hydrogel action. The investigations focused on the morphology, chemical composition and crystalline structure of the new remineralized layers grown onto the etched dentinal surface (R) using scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry and micro-Raman spectroscopy. Experimental results showed that remineralized layers grown in the presence of A or CS-A hydrogels consist in B-type Ca-deficient hydroxyapatite (HAP). After 7 days treatment into artificial saliva under agarose hydrogel, nanorod-like extrafibrilar HAP crystals randomly self-assembled in a discontinuous layer were formed, while in presence of chitosan-agarose hydrogel a continuous compact CS-HAP composite layer was obtained. The new biomimetic layer (A-CS4) formed after 4 days on dentine surface under A-CS hydrogel has higher crystallinity. Longer exposed (7 days) dentine in the presence of agarose hydrogel shows a higher mineral-to-collagen ratio (A7). Since dentine mineralization increases, the collagen quality factor decreases in succession A-CS4]R]A7. Results show a benefic effect of chitosan on remineralization of etched dentine.
Efficiency of Different Nickel-Titanium Endodontic File Systems in Cleaning and Apical Transportation of Simulated Curved Root Canals
Authors: Kovacs Ivacson Andrea Csinszka , Pacurar Mariana , Monea Monica , Kovacs Monika , Pop Mihai , Bechir anamaria , Borda Angela
Published: February 2020

The use of nickel-titanium instruments have become an important part of the root canal treatment, in order to facilitate the cleaning and shaping of root canals, because the incorrect utilization of the endodontic files during endodontic treatment may produce unwanted procedural errors. The aim of this study was to evaluate on simulated curved root canal models the cleaning efficiency and the apical transportation in three reference areas of the root canal files, ProTaper (Dentsply Maillefer), K3XF (Sybron Endo) and HyFlex (Coltene Endo) systems, compared to the hand K-files (DentsplyMaillefer). According to our results, rotary file systems are more efficient than the hand files, in cleaning the root canal.
Determination of Heavy Metal Ions (As, Pb, Cd) and Zinc Mineral (Zn) in Humans and Cows Milk in Bitlis (Turkey)
Authors: Aysal Hatice , Atasoy Nurhayat
Published: February 2020

Human�s milk and cow�s milk fed-infants, long before the mother is exposed heavy metals are potentially dangerous for both mother and baby. Concentrations of toxic heavy metals (Pb, Cd, As) and major nutritional trace element (Zn) which collected center Bitlis, Tatvan and various villages in the 75 volunteer nursing mothers received 6 months after the birth human�s milks and 75 cow milks were analyzed. This study was measured by Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometer. Work was measured in accredited laboratory. In the samples As and Cd were under detectable leves although Zn and Pb were measured. Survey conducted, Zn and Pb levels in the mother milk which collected Tatvan borough were determined the highest. The all metal levels in the mother milk and cow milk which collected Bitlis center higher than villages. Zn levels in the cow milks which collected Bitlis center the highest. As a results of analysis, the avarege values of the lead in the human milks respectively (Bitlis center, Tatvan borough and villages) were found 0.0003�0.00004 mg/kg, 0.00045�0.000052 mg/kg, 0.0002�0.00003 mg/kg; the avarege values of the zinc 3.2�0.64 mg/kg, 3.34�0.57 mg/kg, 2.5�0.37 mg/kg. The avarege values of the lead in the cow milks respectively (Bitlis center, Tatvan borough and villages) were found 0.002�0.0004 mg/kg, 0.003�0.0004 mg/kg, 0.001�0.0003 mg/kg; the avarege values of the zinc 3.7�0.51 mg/kg, 3.6�0.49 mg/kg, 3.0�0.41 mg/kg. As a results of analysis between groups weren�t found significant relationship (P]0.05).
Biochemistry in Assessing Tobacco Exposure -Smokers versus Non-smokers Correlations with clinical practice
Authors: Trofor Antigona , Petris Ovidiu , Trofor Letitia , Man Milena Adina , Filipeanu Dumitru , Miron Ramona
Published: February 2020

The present study evaluate medical history, smoking profile, serum cholesterol, triglycerides, creatinine in addition to uric acid and exhaled carbon monoxide levels (two biomarkers in use) for assessing tobacco exposure in 57 smokers versus 54 nonsmokers. Association of expired air carbon monoxide and plasmatic uric acid proved to be useful and necessary tool in evaluating smokers versus non-smokers, compared to medical history and serum cholesterol-triglycerides-creatinine profile.