Search

Even though in 2021 many universities have decided to resume teaching activities face to face, we believe that the use of online applications will remain a feature of the educational system due to the flexibility offered and the learning possibilities. We aim to analyze the predictive role of personal factors, such as self-efficacy, technostress creators, technostress inhibitors, and tolerance to uncertainty in the use of e-learning tools for teaching and in the use of these applications in the context of the uncertainty generated by the pandemic. The sample consisted of 1,517 academics. The results showed that technostress creators mediate the relationships between technostress inhibitors, technology self-efficacy, use of applications, and satisfaction with the use of e-learning platforms. Although the current context is dominated by uncertainty, the hypotheses regarding the direct and indirect effects of uncertainty in the use of online applications in education were partially sustained. The most important finding of our study is that, although the current context is characterized by uncertainty, the negative impact of the resulting higher levels of stress can be counteracted by a high level of technology self-efficacy which, in turn, predicts a greater extent the use of platforms and the satisfaction of using these platforms.

Abstract Background The extraordinary Galapagos Islands, with an impressive number of endemic and native species, maintain the interest and curiosity for researchers from all over the world. The native species are known to be vulnerable to new pathogens, cointroduced with their invasive hosts. In the case of invasive parasitic arthropods, their evolutionary success is related to the association with other invasive hosts (such as domestic animals). These associations could become a significant driver of change, as occasionally they can seek another hosts and have the capacity to transmit pathogens between domestic and wild animals. The current study aims to identify the distribution and abundance of canine vector-borne parasites in the Galapagos Islands based on the possibility that some of them could spill over to endemic mammals. Methods A total of 1221 blood samples were randomly collected from privately owned dogs on San Cristóbal, Isabela, Santa Cruz, and Floreana Islands during the years 2021 and 2022. All samples were examined for vector-borne pathogens using the modified Knott’s test and conventional, nested, and multiplex polymerase chain reactions (PCRs), followed by sequencing. Results The PCR and Knott tests confirmed the presence of Dirofilaria immitis (2%, 25/1221) in all islands. While molecular analyses showed heartworm DNA only in dogs from the San Cristóbal (3.3%) and Isabela (2.4%) Islands. Moreover, other pathogens Babesia vogeli (3%, 37/1221) and Hepatozoon canis (0.2%, 2/1221) were detected for the first time by molecular analyses. Conclusions Dogs from Galapagos are hosts to various pathogens, of which some are potentially zoonotic while some other could be spill-over to endemic endangered carnivores, such as sea lions. To understand and limit their impact, long-term surveillance, control, and awareness is needed. Graphical abstract

Abstract Background Dictyocaulosis is a parasitic disease caused by pulmonary nematodes from genus Dictyocaulus affecting various ungulate hosts. It can cause verminous bronchopneumonia and for heavily infected individuals, fatal outcomes can occur. Case presentation The study describes the case of a male European bison which died three months after relocation from Slovakia to one of the reintroduction areas in Nucșoara village, Făgăraș Mountains, Romania. Necropsy revealed the presence of pulmonary nematodes in the respiratory tract. Morphology and molecular diagnosis was performed and Dictyocaulus viviparus was identified. Conclusion Rigorous health monitoring is essential to assure the success of reintroduction programs, understanding and preventing infectious diseases and limiting their impact on population health.

The shift to online instruction in higher education related to the COVID-19 pandemic has raised worldwide concerns about an increase in academic misconduct (cheating and plagiarism). However, data to document any increase is sparse. For this study, we collected survey data from 484 students in 11 universities in the USA, and 410 students in five universities in Romania. The data support the conclusions that: (1) cheating on exams increased with the shift to online instruction, but plagiarism and cheating on assignments may not have increased; (2) significant differences between the two countries suggest that intervention planning should avoid assuming that results from one context may generalize to another; and (3) influencing student beliefs about rates of AM among their peers may be a fruitful new route for reducing academic misconduct.

Inclusive education offers equal opportunities, accessibility, and the enabling environment in which children with special educational needs (SEN) benefit from a direct response to individual needs.Also, the collaboration of the family with the teaching staff is extremely important. ogether with these, with the specialists of the field, they are involved in the creation of action plans applicable at home that will facilitate and produce positive effects in the child’s educational experience. The purpose of the work: investigating the role of the family in the integration process of children with SEN in mainstream schools. The questionnaire was conducted on a number of 70 parents whose children are enrolled and attend school courses at the “Alexandru Ioan Cuza” Technical College Suceava.For confirmation, we conducted a survey with the parents of children with SEN, based on a questionnaire. Following the interpretation of the questionnaire, the conclusions were eloquent, the family is indispensable in the effort to integrate children with SEN in mainstream schools, in order to achieve success.

In the ever-changing 21st century, a new generation has emerged that is ready to change the way we see and interact with others. The aim of this article is to observe the intricacies and complexities of Generation Z's personal relationships. To study this particular generation in more detail, we conducted a quantitative study, a survey to be precise, and the results were interesting. We were able to observe how much value these people place on their personal relationships, how they maintain them, how they engage with each other and how important these relationships are to them personally. Personal connections were highly valued by the majority of participants and had a major impact on their lives. Most of them enjoy meaningful relationships and are satisfied with their circumstances. Despite the fact that this generation is chronically online, it seems to be much easier for most of them to build relationships offline, face-to-face. The ability to express ourselves better in person, the fact that we are social creatures, and the fact that real friendships can form and last much longer are just some of the reasons why some people find it easier to build relationships offline.

The shift to online instruction in higher education related to the COVID-19 pandemic has raised worldwide concerns about an increase in academic misconduct (cheating and plagiarism). However, data to document any increase is sparse. For this study, we collected survey data from 484 students in 11 universities in the USA, and 410 students in five universities in Romania. The data support the conclusions that (1) cheating on exams increased with the shift to online instruction, but plagiarism and cheating on assignments may not have increased, (2) significant differences between the two countries suggest that intervention planning should avoid assuming that results from one context may generalize to another, and (3) influencing student beliefs about rates of AM among their peers may be a fruitful new route for reducing academic misconduct., Author(s): Bob Ives [sup.1] , Ana-Maria Cazan [sup.2] Author Affiliations: (1) https://ror.org/01keh0577, grid.266818.3, 0000 0004 1936 914X, University of Nevada, , MS 0266, 89557-0266, Reno, NV, USA (2) https://ror.org/01cg9ws23, grid.5120.6, [...]

IntroductionResearch shows that ICT is beneficial for academics and students, aiding in overcoming distance barriers, streamlining administration, and improving teaching and learning processes. However, the negative impact of technology, particularly technostress, are garnering attention. In the context of the concerns about technostress among higher education institutions (HEI), the aim of the study is to analyze the technostress creators and inhibitors for university teachers and students in different European countries. The topical concept of digital well-being is seen as “a subjective individual experience of optimal balance between the benefits and drawbacks obtained from mobile connectivity, focusing on the personal perception of what amount of time spent using technology is optimal so that well-being is preserved”.MethodTo explore specific aspects related to use of technology, two – parallel online surveys for academics (N = 446) and students (N = 660) from four European countries (Romania, Germany, Norway, and Finland) were conducted between November 2022 – January 2023. The surveys included the Technostress scale and the Technostress Inhibitors Scale, the Technology self-efficacy Scale, and a questionnaire focusing on socio-demographic aspects, work experience, academic field, dimensions related to the actual use of technology and participants perception on the optimal use of technology for work, learning or personal tasks, in terms of the period of day/week and amount of time spent. We also inquired about the social support given and received when using technology and the formal and informal rules, expectations, policies, punishments, and rewards regarding the use of technology.ResultsThe findings suggest that the perceived optimal use of technology is significantly lower than the actual use for all the contexts. Overuse of technology was associated with technostress. Our results also showed that technology self-efficacy and social support from colleagues and teachers are negatively associated with technostress. Country differences regarding technostress and time spent online were also observed.DiscussionsDespite the needed caution in interpreting the results because of the unbalanced sample size across countries, the results could be used to develop research and support interventions within European countries to promote digital well-being, a better work-life balance with further positive effects on academic satisfaction and work/learning productivity.

Abstract Background Thelaziosis is a neglected vector-borne disease caused by parasitic nematode worms of the genus Thelazia which affects various hosts. Limited attention has been given to ungulate-associated Thelazia species. Current diagnosis of thelaziosis and the identification/differentiation of species heavily relies on morphological features. Therefore, we conducted an epidemiological study in Romanian cattle, with the aim to obtain morphological and molecular data that can be used for species identification. Methods The eyes of 705 slaughtered cattle were sampled and subjected to morphological identification, morphometric analysis, and molecular characterization. PCR amplification and sequence analysis were performed based on the cytochromec oxidase subunit 1 (COI) gene. Statistical tests assessed the correlations between infection parameters and ecological or biogeographical factors. A novel PCR method was developed based on the consensus sequence from each species. Specific forward primers were designed for each of the three species, and a reverse primer (COIintR) was used for all reactions. A consensus thermal profile was established by gradient PCR amplification of each species separately. Results Of the sampled cattle, 19.3% were infected with Thelazia spp. Prevalence varied significantly with ecogeographical factors. A total of 585 Thelazia nematodes were recovered, with T. rhodesi being the most abundant, followed by T. skrjabini and T. gulosa. Morphometric and molecular analyses supported the morphological identification, yielding unique sequences for each species. From the 59 T. rhodesi specimens sequenced, 29 unique sequences were obtained, with a 99.1–99.85% nucleotide identity to the only other COI sequence present in GenBank®. All nine T. gulosa isolates were unique (99.37–100% nucleotide identity to other sequences), while T. skrjabini specimens displayed 98.47–100% nucleotide identity to the sole available sequence. Conclusions Bovine thelaziosis is prevalent in Romania, raising concerns for animal welfare and potential economic impacts. Infected cattle grazing alongside vulnerable wild ruminants, such as the European bison, may affect conservation efforts. Our newly developed multiplex PCR shows promise as a valuable surveillance tool, enabling the detection of occult infections in apparently healthy animals through lachrymal secretion testing. Graphical Abstract

The textile industry is one of the largest water-consuming industries, and it generates a significant amount of wastewater that needs to be treated before being discharged into the environment. To address this challenge, there has been a growing interest in the development of state-of-the-art technologies for wastewater treatment in the textile industry. Physical treatments such as sedimentation, flotation, and filtration are commonly used to remove suspended solids and organic matter from textile wastewater. Chemical treatments such as coagulation/flocculation and oxidation are effective in removing dyes and other colorants. Biological treatments such as aerobic and anaerobic treatments have been shown to be effective in treating organic matter and other pollutants. Moving Bed Biofilm Reactor (MBBR) technology has become increasingly popular in the textile industry for treating wastewater. This technology uses a combination of biological and physical processes to effectively remove pollutants from textile wastewater. The use of MBBR technology in textile industry wastewater treatment has several benefits. It is highly efficient in removing pollutants, including organic matter, color, and suspended solids. It can also handle high variations in flow and organic loads, making it suitable for the highly variable wastewater generated by the textile industry. The use of MBBR technology in the textile industry offers a cost-effective, efficient, and sustainable solution for treating wastewater, making it an increasingly popular option for textile manufacturers worldwide.

Fungi have been used for centuries for a variety of purposes, including as a source of food, medicine, and industrial products. In recent years, there has been growing interest in using fungi strains to obtain novel biomaterials with unique properties that can be used in various applications, including in the field of biotechnology. One example of a fungi strain used for obtaining novel biomaterials is Ganoderma lucidum, also known as the reishi mushroom. This strain has been shown to produce polysaccharides with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which have potential applications in the development of nutraceuticals and pharmaceuticals. Aspergillus oryzae strain is widely used in the production of a traditional Japanese seasoning called koji. Koji is used to break down starches and proteins in foods, and it has been found to have a variety of potential health benefits, including improving digestion and boosting the immune system. Fungal mycelium of the mushroom species Schizophyllum commune, which has been used to create a biodegradable packaging material that has properties similar to polystyrene foam. This material is sustainable, compostable, and can be produced using waste products, making it an eco-friendly alternative to traditional packaging materials. Overall, the use of fungi strains for obtaining novel biomaterials has great potential for the development of new and sustainable materials with unique properties. As research in this area continues to expand, it is likely that we will see even more exciting applications for these versatile organisms.

The demands of the school day, which includes multiple lessons, require sustained attention from students; this can be challenging, especially for young children. Concentration of attention is a critical cognitive function that impacts learning. This study involved 129 healthy schoolchildren aged 8–10 years (spanning grades 2 and 3) from a regular secondary school in Kirov, Russian Federation. A “physical education minute” (PEM), consisting of various physical exercises, was introduced during the middle of a regular lesson for the experimental group (EG), while the control group (CG) continued with their regular studies. Concentration and attention were assessed before and after the PEM using the Bourdon test. The Bourdon test results indicated a significant decrease in concentration during the lesson for the CG (p

IntroductionThe problem of academic dropout in the first year of studies represents an important issue for higher education, in that it accounts for an important indicator of quality but also for the negative consequences it produces on individual, institutional and social level. The main aim of the study is to validate and evaluate a robust measure of overall academic maladjustment.MethodThe participants were 809 first-year students from various Romanian universities.ResultsThe results showed a reliable version of the instrument with a factorial structure that did not deviate significantly from the authors’ initial model. The exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis revealed a unified score including six dimensions, procrastination, dishonesty – unethical behavior, test anxiety, machiavellian attitude, neuroticism, and somatization. Our results confirmed that besides academic achievement, personal factors are important indicators of adjustment, showing that personal resources management, emotional and behavioral strategies are components of adjustment. Our study revealed a medium and positive correlation between overall maladjustment and academic dropout intention, procrastination seemed to be the most relevant predictor of dropout intention.DiscussionAcademic adjustment acts as a safeguard against dropping out, and it is crucial to acknowledge that most students enter college with the intention of completing their studies.

Abstract Background Apicomplexan haemoparasites are protozoans that infect a variety of domestic and wild animal species, as well as humans. Data regarding haemoprotozoans in domestic cats are limited; therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the occurrence of Babesia spp., Cytauxzoon spp., and Hepatozoon spp. in domestic cats in Romania using molecular tools. Methods Blood samples from 371 domestic cats were screened for the presence of piroplasmids. All samples that yielded a visible band in agarose gels were subsequently tested by specific assays targeting the 18S rDNA of Babesia spp., Cytauxzoon spp., and Hepatozoon spp. Moreover, nested PCR assays targeting mitochondrial genes of Babesia spp. were used for screening of all Babesia spp. 18S rDNA-positive samples. Results From the total number of sampled cats, 19.4% were positive in the PCR assay targeting piroplasmids. Babesia spp. were identified in 15.1% of cats, while 0.5% were positive for Hepatozoon spp. Molecular analyses confirmed the presence of Babesia canis. No samples were positive for Cytauxzoon spp. Conclusions The high infection rates of domestic cats with Babesia spp. and the need for species differentiation highlight the importance of mitochondrial genes as targets for molecular protocols.

Abstract Background Ticks are obligate hematophagous arthropods capable of transmitting a great variety of endemic and emerging pathogens causing diseases in animals and humans. Objectives The aim of this study was to investigate the presence of Bartonella spp., Rickettsia spp., Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato (s.l.) and Anaplasma phagocytophilum in ticks collected from cattle in Benin and Togo. Methods Overall, 396 (148 males, 205 females and 43 nymphs) ticks were collected from cattle in 17 districts (Benin and Togo) between 2019 and 2020. Ticks were pooled into groups of 2–6 ticks per pool according to individual host, location, species and developmental stage. The DNA of each pool was extracted for molecular screening. Results PCR results revealed that 20 tick pools were positive for Bartonella spp. (Benin and Togo) and 23 tick pools positive for Rickettsia spp. (Benin), while all pools were negative for A. phagocytophilum and B. burgdorferi s.l. Sequence analysis of positive Rickettsia samples revealed the presence of Rickettsia aeschlimannii. Conclusions The present study highlights the presence of zoonotic agents in ticks collected from cattle in Benin and Togo. This information will raise awareness of tick‐borne diseases among physicians and veterinarians, stimulate further studies to monitor these pathogens, and advise on necessary measures to control the spread of these zoonoses.

Abstract Background Equine thelaziosis is a neglected vector-borne parasitic disease in modern veterinary medicine, lacking recent reports. It is transmitted by Musca autumnalis, and potentially other Muscidae species, by ingesting the lachrymal secretions of its equine host. The distribution of both Thelazia lacrymalis and its intermediate hosts remains largely unknown throughout Europe, with most studies dating back 20 years. The aim of this study was to assess the presence, prevalence and distribution of T. lacrymalis in horses from Romania. Methods The eyes of 273 horses, slaughtered at two abattoirs from the Northwestern and Western regions of Romania, were examined for the presence of T. lacrymalis between March and November 2021. Upon detection, the nematodes were collected and morphologically identified using the keys from literature. Following identification, one specimen from each animal was selected for molecular analysis while the rest underwent detailed morphometric measurements. Mapping and distribution, according to ecoregions, was done using the QGis 3.20 software, while sequences obtained were compared to those available in GenBank through BLAST analysis using the MEGA X software. Results Of the 273 animals sampled, 12 (4.39%) were positive for Thelazia spp. infection. Eighty-seven nematodes were recovered, all morphologically identified as T. lacrymalis. The intensity of infestation varied between one and 33 nematodes/animal while five animals presented a bilateral infestation and seven a unilateral one. The highest prevalence was encountered in Pannonian ecoregion (12.12%) while the lowest was in the Alpine ecoregion (0%). Seventy-five intact specimens underwent detailed morphometric analysis, of the 18–20 parameters, resulting in notable differences in striation lengths compared to the data available in other reports. BLAST analysis identified a 96.46–98.60% similarity to the only other COI gene sequence available for T. lacrymalis. Conclusions The current study represents the first report of T. lacrymalis in horses in Romania. The low prevalence rates are probably linked to the wide use of macrocyclic lactones. Graphic Abstract

The present study is based on the social-cognitive perspective of self-regulated learning and focuses on its development in academic settings. This study examined the impact of an intervention on the development of self-regulated learning strategies at a course-specific level. The transferability of the trained strategies on different learning context and the possibility that the training lead to the improvement of learning motivation and behavioural strategies, although they were not explicitly trained were also examined. In addition, the effects of a prolongment of the intervention in the second semester were investigated. The improvement of the learning skills was also assessed through the content analysis of the learning journals competed by the students during the intervention program. We used a mixed method design to examine the changes in students' self-regulated learning produced before and after the intervention. The participants were first year Psychology and Education Sciences students. During an academic year, the students were trained to use techniques combining cognitive and metacognitive skills. All the strategies were implemented through implicit training, being included as course tasks, and practiced in a domain specific context. The study revealed that the intervention had positive effects on self-regulated learning skills, the students in the intervention group differed significantly at the end of the intervention from the students in the control group. Another finding was the transferability of the trained strategies to different learning contexts. Even if self-regulated learning skills are practiced implicitly in a context, their practice could lead to generalization and increase the transfer opportunities., Author(s): Ana-Maria Cazan [sup.1] Author Affiliations: (1) grid.5120.6, 0000 0001 2159 8361, Department of Psychology, Education and Teacher Training, Faculty of Psychology and Education Sciences, Transilvania University of Brasov, , [...]

The study aimed to test the impact of a career counselling intervention program (JOBS - Job Orientation. Training in business and schools) intended to improve students' knowledge and skills related to employability' preconditions. The intervention program was implemented as an optional subject for lower secondary and secondary education. Data were collected using a Solomon design from 1737 students, distributed in intervention and control groups, with and without pre-test, over one school year. The results showed no interaction between treatment and pre-test when self-assessed skills were tested and a small significant effect in case of self-assessed knowledge, but pre-test simple effect was not significant. Two conclusions emerged: intervention was effective, and pre-test did not improve the results by itself. The intervention program had significant effects on enhancing students' knowledge and skills that are useful in career decisions. Taken outside the classroom, a career counselling intervention could offer more valid research data, but it also might have a smaller impact on student ability to cope with the requirements of social and work environment., Author(s): Laura Teodora David [sup.1] , Camelia TruÈa [sup.1] , Ana-Maria Cazan [sup.1] , Stefan Albisser [sup.2] , Manuela Keller-Schneider [sup.2] Author Affiliations: (1) grid.5120.6, 0000 0001 2159 8361, Faculty [...]

While the coronavirus disease (COVID)-19 crisis is impacting many areas of society, some professions are more affected by the COVID-19 pandemic than others, especially by the feeling of insecurity about future working conditions. The present research was conducted during the pandemic and assesses the extent to which musicians' desire to develop professionally, their work engagement and their motivation to study further in the context of job insecurity, intolerance to uncertainty, and emotion regulation were affected. A cross-sectional design was used. The participants were 167 Romanian professional musicians. The results show that cognitive reappraisal and achievement-striving moderate the relationship between qualitative job insecurity and work engagement, more specifically: cognitive reappraisal and achievement-striving are moderators and buffer the negative relationship between qualitative job insecurity and work engagement. Given that the current context is marked by uncertainty, future studies could investigate the effect that intervention for managing emotions can have on increasing well-being and work engagement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The tendency to cheat is consubstantial to any kind of education and training process involving work and effort. The study was conducted on 194 participants, first- and second-year students from the bachelor and master's programs from several engineering and humanities faculties from Brasov. The Academic Adjustment Questionnaire and the Academic Ethics Questionnaire (AEQ) were applied. The aim of the research was to highlight the internal structure of the two questionnaires and to investigate the associations between academic adjustment, academic dishonesty. Several demographic variables were taken into consideration. The results showed good construct validity and reliability for the scales and significant correlations between academic adjustment and academic dishonesty. Future research should examine to what extent AEQ is able to capture the impact of information technology on dishonest behavior or whether the matter requires a special approach or whether AEQ can support effective intervention programs to stop the phenomenon of academic dishonesty.

Biological agriculture is a dynamic sector that has known lately an increasing trend. One of the main conditions for biological agriculture to develop is the promotion of the eco concept to make the consumers aware of the advantages of consuming biological products. With the rise of the population interest in a more proper lifestyle and the awareness of the importance of healthy nutrition, biological products have started to replace part of the conventional products in the nutrition of more and more consumers.

Abstract Background In a countrywide study aiming to update the knowledge on diversity of sand fly species in Romania, a sand fly population was observed in an isolated system of cave microhabitats. The caves are located in the protected area of Canaraua Fetii, Dobrogea region, southeastern Romania. The highest sand fly diversity was recorded in this area between 1968 and 1970. This work presents a study conducted to estimate the seasonal variation of the sand fly species in correlation with the particular environmental factors of the isolated system of cave microhabitats. Methods Sand flies were collected between May and October 2020 from one trapping site of interest in Canaraua Fetii. The trapping site consisted of a cave entrance. CDC miniature light traps and sticky traps were used to collect insects from the exterior walls of the cave entrance. Species identification of collected sand flies was done using morphological keys. Statistical analysis of the trapping and climatic data was performed. Results From all collected sand flies, 99.7% (818/822) were Phlebotomus neglectus, 0.1% (1/822) Ph. balcanicus and 0.2% (2/822) Sergentomyia minuta. Sand fly activity was first observed on 2 July and last on 24 September. A monomodal abundance trend was present, with the peak activity between 16 and 17 July. The analysis of the climatic data showed correlations between the total number of captured sand flies and both average temperature and average relative humidity. The total number of collected specimens was statistically higher when CDC miniature light traps were used compared to sticky traps. The number of females on the sticky traps was significantly higher than the number of males on the same trap type. Compared with the sticky traps, significantly more males were collected by CDC miniature light traps. This is the first record of Se. minuta in Romania after 50 years of no records (despite the trapping effort of the last 5 years in the country). Also, Ph. sergenti, previously present in this location, was not found. Conclusions In the investigated natural habitat, the diversity of the sand fly species appears to have changed, with the predominance of Ph. neglectus instead of Ph. balcanicus and Se. minuta (recorded as the two predominant species in 1968–1970). A monomodal abundance trend was observed as in other regions of the country. The sand fly activity in this particular cave microhabitat appears to be longer than in other regions in Romania. Longer sand fly activity increases the zoonotic risk of various pathogenic species’ transmission, with an impact on public health, as sand flies are important insect vectors. Graphical abstract

Abstract Background An entomological study was conducted in the Canaraua Fetii Special Protection Area in the Dobrogea region, South-Eastern Romania. Four sand fly species were recorded at this location between 1968 and 1970: Phlebotomus neglectus, Ph. balcanicus, Ph. sergenti and Sergentomyia minuta. The most abundant sand fly species recorded at that time were Ph. balcanicus and Se. minuta. In the context of a countrywide study to update the sand fly species diversity, we surveyed the same area, recording also a previously unknown Ph. (Transphlebotomus) sp., for which we provide a formal description here. Methods Sand flies were collected between July and August in 2018 and 2019 in three sites from Canaraua Fetii, Dobrogea region, Romania. The general aspect of the landscape is of a canyon (vertical, narrow walls and deep valleys). Species identification was done using both morphological and molecular analyses. Results Out of 645 collected sand flies, 644 (99.8%) were morphologically identified as Ph. neglectus, while one female specimen (0.2%) was assigned to a previously unknown species, belonging to the subgenus Transphlebotomus. The morphological and molecular examination of this specimen showed that it is a previously unknown species which we formally describe here as Phlebotomus (Transphlebotomus) simonahalepae n. sp. Also, Ph. balcanicus, Ph. sergenti, and Se. minuta (previously recorded in this location) were not present. Conclusions The study revealed for the first time the presence of sand flies of the subgenus Transphlebotomus in Romania. Moreover, a new species, Ph. simonahalepae n. sp., was described based on a female specimen, raising the number of species in this subgenus to six. In the investigated natural habitat, the predominant species was Ph. neglectus instead of Ph. balcanicus and Se. minuta (recorded as the predominant species in 1968–1970). Graphical abstract

Crisis is a very important aspect of our everyday life and no matter of the dimension we refer to this represents a period in the evolution of a society marked by great difficulties and anxiety. From an economic point of view this is a normal and necessary event, leading to marvellous growth and development. Even so, the authorities are often not prepared or do not know how to mitigate and manage its shortfalls. The main objective of this paper is to focus around the financial crisis development in the perspective of Classical, Neoclassical and Keynesian economics. Even hundreds years apart, all of the three schools have captured the determinants, implications and some measures to mitigate the imbalances which are still relevant today. The question remains though, so why the world did not resolve the puzzle of financial distress taking into consideration the age of these types of events, the number and the forms they hit our society in the last decades. This study will try to summarize the main ideas of ones of the greatest minds of the past in order to bring some light over the financial crisis phenomena.

The aim of this paper is to argue that people’s decision to not get vaccinated against COVID- 19 – more commonly known as Coronavirus – in Romania is strongly enforced by distrust in what we would call scientific knowledge and an abnormal propensity towards mythical knowledge, regarded by many as nonscientific knowledge. In the following pages, I will present some of the psycho-social arguments regarding the motives of one’s choice of beliefs, the social representations that follow these motives and why the social representations that disregard scientific knowledge tend to have serious consequences on the society.

Copyright of Industria Textila is the property of Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Textile si Pielarie and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Pharmaceutical waste management represents a global issue. There is a significant gap in consumers' education regarding the proper disposal of pharmaceutical waste. A significant amount of pharmaceutical waste is generated in health care facilities, including expired medicines, unused doses, and contaminated materials. Inadequate disposal of pharmaceutical waste can have effects on human health and on the environment. Managing pharmaceutical waste requires coordinated efforts from policymakers, health care providers, pharmaceutical manufacturers, waste management companies, and consumers. The purpose of this paper is to examine the current state of activities that may impact the efficiency of Romanian pharmacists in collecting and disposing of pharmaceutical waste, as well as the intentions of pharmacists/technicians to recycle this type of waste. Furthermore, this paper aims to identify institutional and behavioral barriers that affect effective waste management. This research was conducted using quantitative and qualitative research methods. An exploratory factor analysis was used to identify the elements of satisfaction and their attribution levels in the pharmaceutical industry. The statistical significance of the differences across different occupations regarding satisfaction with pharmacists' activities to reduce waste at each stage was tested using an analysis of variance. Cross-tabulation and a Pearson's chi-square test were used to analyze the relationship between occupational segments and intention regarding recycling and reusing pharma waste. This research was augmented using qualitative analysis based on the Delphi technique, focused on the barriers to waste management in the pharmaceutical sector. This study presents a general perspective on the current situation of pharmaceutical waste in Romania. The results indicate that the selection of appropriate pharmaceutical waste practices is primarily determined by the attitude of individuals and organizations, followed by regulatory, economic, and technical criteria. In developing sustainable pharmaceutical waste policies, this research provides practical implications for governments, organizations, and citizens. A comprehensive approach to overcoming barriers in pharmaceutical waste management was developed by combining institutional strategies that focus on organizational policies and infrastructure with behavioral strategies that target individuals and communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background A study conducted at the International Airport of Cluj-Napoca, Romania, with the aim of investigating the presence/absence of invasive Aedes mosquito species resulted in finding Aedes japonicus japonicus (Theobald 1901) eggs in one of the ovitraps placed on site. Methods The study was carried out between 30 June and 29 September 2020. On 24 August, 26 eggs were collected and later hatched at the University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca’s insectary. On 15 October another adult female Ae. japonicus was caught entering a building in the center of the city, about 7 km from the first sampling spot. Results The mosquitoes were identified morphologically and confirmed by molecular analysis, based on the genetic analysis of the mitochondrial gene cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (COI). Conclusion This is the first report of the species in Romania, highlighting the need for surveillance and implemented control methods. However, in Romania to our knowledge only Aedes albopictus has been established; further studies are required to learn about this new invasive species' status in Romania.

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic is probably the most critical epidemiological situation that human civilization has faced in the last few decades. In this context, of all the professional categories involved in the management of patients with COVID-19 are the most likely to develop burnout syndrome. The main objective of this study is to analyze specific predictive factors of the occurrence and development of the burnout syndrome in the healthcare workers involved in the diagnosis and treatment of patients with COVID-19. The study focused on determining factors of the occurrence, development and maintaining the specific burnout syndrome related to the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic infection. The study was conducted on a sample of 959 participants, medical personnel from all the public medical entities in Romania(including 5 hospitals): 122 male and 755 female (82 participants did not declare their gender), with a mean age of 42.29 years (SD = 9.97). The sample included 219 doctors, 477 nurses, 214 auxiliary medical personnel and 49 other types of hospital workers. A cross-sectional design was used. Three predictors of the burnout syndrome were identified: Work conditions, Fear of the consequences (including death) determined by the COVID-19 and Need for emotional support. Meaning of work had a moderating role. Several moderated mediation models were tested. The indirect relationship of Work conditions with burnout via Fear of infection was statistically significant; in addition, the indirect effect of Work conditions on burnout through both fear of infection and need for support was statistically significant. The moderation analysis showed that Meaning of work buffer the relationship between Work conditions and Fear of infection. The variance explained by the model including the moderator (30%) was higher than the variance explained by Model 1 (27%), showing that adding the moderating effect of Meaning of work to the relationship of Work conditions with burnout was relevant. The results could be used to design specific interventions to reduce the occurrence of the burnout syndrome in healthcare workers, the implementation of a strategy to motivate employees by highlighting and recognizing the high significance of the work of those in the frontline of the fight against COVID-19.

Aim of the study We studied the effects of fibroblasts autophagy on the apoptosis of pro-B murine lymphocytes when were co-cultured. Material and methods Study of literature suggested that released autophagy-derived metabolites from fibroblasts might affect the apoptotic behavior of lymphocytes when there is a close interaction of these cells. The experimental plan of the actual studies was represented by induced effects of the presence of gingival fibroblasts in co-culture on NAK-1 receptors-activated pro-lymphocytes B apoptosis. Results We clearly showed that murine pro-B lymphocyte apoptosis induced by indol-3-carbinol could be significantly enhanced by the presence of gingival fibroblasts in co-culture. Furthermore, the addition of 3-methyl-adenine in the medium for 24 hours blocked the enhancing effects induced by fibroblasts on the apoptotic index of pro-B lymphocytes. Conclusions So, the enhancing apoptotic effects of fibroblasts on pro-B lymphocytes are related to released autophagy-derived metabolites. Their real nature remains to be established through future researches involving this complex system.

Abstract Canine vector-borne diseases are caused by pathogens transmitted by arthropods including ticks, mosquitoes and sand flies. Many canine vector-borne diseases are of zoonotic importance. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of vector-borne infections caused by Dirofilaria immitis, Ehrlichia canis, Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato, Anaplasma spp. and Leishmania infantum in a dog kennel in Argeș County, Romania. Dog kennels are shelters for stray dogs with no officially registered owners that are gathered to be neutered and/or boarded for national/international adoptions by various public or private organizations. The international dog adoptions might represent a risk in the transmission of pathogens into new regions. In this context, a total number of 149 blood samples and 149 conjunctival swabs from asymptomatic kennel dogs were assessed using serology and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. Antibodies against B. burgdorferi s.l. were detected in one dog (0.6%), anti-Anaplasma antibodies were found in five dogs (3.3%), while ten dogs (6.7%) tested positive for D. immitis antigen. Overall, 20.1% (30/149) of dogs were positive for L. infantum DNA. All samples were seronegative for anti-Leishmania antibodies. When adopting dogs from this region of Romania, owners should be aware of possible infection with especially L. infantum. The travel of infected dogs may introduce the infection to areas where leishmaniasis is not present.