Arad County Research Articles

Prevalence and Antibiotic Resistance of Streptococcus agalactiae in Women of Childbearing Age Presenting Urinary Tract Infections from Western Romania.

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a common bacterial infection in women of childbearing age. Streptococcus agalactiae (Group B Streptococcus-GBS), a rare causative pathogen of UTIs in this population, is particularly important due to the potential risk during pregnancy, when it can lead to life-threatening neonatal infections. The current study analyzed 17,273 urine samples collected from consecutive women aged 18-45 years from Arad County, Western Romania. A total of 2772 samples tested positive for UTIs. In 130 cases, GBS was identified as the causative agent. Univariate logistic regression analysis revealed that women aged 25-34 years were more likely to test positive for GBS than those aged 18-24 years (cOR = 1.91, 95% CI: 1.07-3.43, p = 0.03). Antibiotic sensitivity testing revealed that all GBS strains were fully sensitive to penicillin, ampicillin, and vancomycin. High resistance was observed for clindamycin (77.34%) and tetracycline (88.46%). While GBS was found to be a rare pathogen in UTIs, our results underscore the importance of monitoring GBS in women of childbearing age, especially due to its risks during pregnancy, and emphasize the need for appropriate antibiotic management.

Baroque and neoclassical in the creation of Vienna academy painter Hubert Maurer - the altar painting of the Roman Catholic church in Neudorf -Arad County

Baroque and neoclassical in the creation of Vienna academy painter Hubert Maurer - the altar painting of the Roman Catholic church in Neudorf -Arad County

The activity of the Communist Party in Arad county in 1945

The activity of the Communist Party in Arad county in 1945

To A More Precise Placement in Space and Time of the Hoard Discovery from Grăniceri, Arad County

The synthesis publications dedicated to ancient coin finds made on the current territory of Romania mention the hoard from Grăniceri (Arad County), consisting of 120 tetradrachms of Thasos. It’s a discovery made by chance that happened in the 19th century. So far, the exact location and date of discovery of this hoard have not been established with any precision. However, by correlating the information from primary sources with the maps of that time and the data provided by Lidar scans, we believe that we have identified where this discovery was made. Starting from here, we have developed a discussion of how these deposits can be interpreted, referring to the theories widely accepted by scientists. At the same time, for the basins of the Crişul Alb and Crişul Negru rivers (only their segments in Arad county) we have drawn up a map of the hoards finds dating back to the 2nd century BC – 1st century AD in relation to the contemporary settlements.

Prevalence of Toxoplasma gondii IgG Antibodies in Psychiatric Patients from Western Romania

IntroductionToxoplasma gondii, a ubiquitous protozoan parasite, has been previously associated with psychiatric disorders.ObjectivesTo assess the prevalence of IgG antibodies against T. gondii in psychiatric patients from Western Romania.MethodsWe included 464 psychiatric patients admitted to the Psychiatric Clinic, County Emergency Hospital of Arad, Western Romania. Clinical evaluation and laboratory tests were conducted in these patients, including serological tests to determine the presence of T. gondii IgG antibodies.ResultsOf the 464 psychiatric patients, 258 (55.5%) were residing in rural areas and 245 (52.7%) were female. T. gondii IgG antibodies were demonstrated in 325 (70.04%) of 464 study participants and the seroprevalence tended to increase with age.A significant higher T. gondii IgG seroprevalence was found in psychiatric patients aged between 40 to 59 years (p<0.001) and in patients aged ≥60 years (p=0.001) compared to patients aged 19 to 39 years. A higher T. gondii IgG seroprevalence was determined in psychiatric patients residing in rural areas compared to those residing in urban areas (p=0.04). T. gondii IgG seroprevalence was higher in females compared to males (p=0.04).Assessment of seroprevalence by diagnostic revealed that T. gondii IgG antibodies were identified in 23 (85.19%) of 27 patients with delusional disorders, 24 (82.76%) of 29 with dementia, 51 (70.83%) of 72 with organic disorders, 75 (70.75%) of 106 with schizophrenia, 81 (70.43%) of 115 patients with depression, 17 (62.96%) of 27 with bipolar disorders, 27 (58.7%) of 46 with mood disorders and 7 (53.85%) of 13 with impulsive-control disorders.ConclusionsThe presence of T. gondii antibodies was demonstrated in a significant number of patients who attended the Psychiatric Clinic in Arad County, Western Romania. Results of this study suggest that T. gondii may be associated with several psychiatric disorders.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared

Strategic Integration of Multimedia in Outdoor Education: Nurturing pupils for future Leadership Roles

This research delves into the strategic integration of multimedia within outdoor education settings as a means to nurture pupils for forthcoming leadership roles. In today's rapidly evolving landscape, cultivating leadership skills among youth has become paramount. The study examines the pivotal role of multimedia tools and their intentional incorporation into outdoor education programs to empower pupils with the essential skills and competencies necessary for future leadership responsibilities. Employing a mixed-methods approach, this investigation explores various outdoor education environments where multimedia resources are strategically integrated. Through qualitative observations, interviews, and quantitative assessments, the research evaluates the impact of multimedia usage on pupils' leadership development. Additionally, it assesses how multimedia applications enhance critical thinking, communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills, essential facets for effective leadership. Findings from this study underscore the significance of deliberate multimedia integration in outdoor education for nurturing pupils' leadership potential. The analysis not only highlights the strengths and benefits of multimedia tools but also identifies potential challenges and best practices for their optimal utilization in shaping future leaders. Ultimately, this research contributes empirical insights that inform primary school educators on the strategic integration of multimedia in outdoor education, from Arad County, Romania, elucidating its role in preparing pupils for the complexities of leadership roles in tomorrow's society.

Identification and Molecular Characterization of Giant Liver Fluke (Fascioloides magna) Infection in European Fallow Deer (Dama dama) in Romania-First Report.

Fascioloidosis is a parasitic disease of primary wild and domestic ruminants, caused by giant liver fluke, Fascioloides magna. The definitive host of the liver fluke in its area of origin (North America) is the white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus). In Europe, the red deer (Cervus elaphus) and European fallow deer (Dama dama) are definitive hosts and the most sensitive hosts to F. magna infection, on which the parasite exerts serious pathogenic effects. In this study, we analyzed fecal samples and livers of 72 D. dama from 11 hunting grounds in Arad County, Romania. Of the 72 fecal samples and livers from D. dama, trematodes of the genus Fascioloides were identified in four (5.56%). Sequencing revealed that the trematodes identified in the samples were similar to the sequence of F. magna (GenBank no. EF534992.1, DQ683545.1, KU232369.1). The sequence obtained from the molecular analysis has been deposited in GenBank® under accession number OQ689976.1. This study describes the first report of giant liver fluke (F. magna) infection in D. dama in Romania.

Retrospective Analysis of Vitamin D Deficiency in an Adult Population of Arad County, Western Romania (2019-2022).

Vitamin D, a steroid hormone synthesized primarily in the skin upon exposure to ultraviolet light, is widely deficient across global populations. This study aimed to fill the data gap in Western Romania by measuring 25-hydroxy-vitamin D levels in a cohort of 7141 from Arad County. It was observed that women, younger adults (18-29 years), and older adults (70-79 years) had notably lower vitamin D levels compared to the average population. Additionally, there was a rise in vitamin D levels over the four-year span of 2018-2022, coinciding with the COVID-19 pandemic. Our research provides fresh data on those most susceptible to vitamin D deficiency and lays the groundwork for educational campaigns on vitamin D supplementation benefits.

Dynamic shifts in lung cytokine patterns in post-COVID-19 interstitial lung disease patients: a pilot study.

The pathogenesis of post-COVID interstitial lung disease, marked by lung tissue scarring and functional decline, remains largely unknown. We aimed to elucidate the temporal cytokine/chemokine changes in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) from patients with post-COVID interstitial lung disease to uncover potential immune drivers of pulmonary complications. We evaluated 16 females diagnosed with post-COVID interstitial lung disease, originating from moderate to severe cases during the second epidemic wave in the Autumn of 2020, treated at the Pneumology Department of the Arad County Clinical Hospital, Romania. Their inflammatory response over time was compared to a control group. A total of 48 BAL samples were collected over three intervals (1, 3, and 6 months) and underwent cytology, gene, and protein expression analyses for pro/anti-inflammatory lung cytokines and chemokines using reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. One month after infection, there were significant increases in the levels of IL-6 and IL-8. These levels decreased gradually over the course of 6 months but were still higher than those seen in control. Interferon-gamma and tumor necrosis factor alpha exhibited similar patterns. Persistent elevations were found in IL-10, IL-13, and pro-fibrotic M2 macrophages' chemokines (CCL13 and CCL18) for 6 months. Furthermore, pronounced neutrophilia was observed at 1 month post-COVID, highlighting persistent inflammation and lung damage. Neutrophil efferocytosis, aiding inflammation resolution and tissue repair, was evident at the 1-month time interval. A notable time-dependent reduction in CD28 was also noticed. Our research provides insight into the immunological processes that may lead to the fibrotic changes noted in the lungs following COVID-19.

GARDEN PEAS PRODUCTION VARIATION IN RELATION TO SOME BIOSTIMULATING SUBSTANCES

The study evaluated the production of pods and green grains in garden peas in relation to some biostimulating substances. The experiment was organized in the area of Aldesti locality, Arad County, Romania. Four pea varieties were cultivated: Vidra 187 (a1), Udina (a2), Ișalnița (a3), and Marifon (a4). Three biostimulators were used: Fabo (b2), Bionat (b3), Lithovit (b4), tested together with a control variant (b1). From the combination of the two factors, 16 experimental variants resulted. A logical scheme was designed for the experimental flow. According to PCA, correlation, in relation to Pgp (peas green pods), Pgp Q1 (peas green pods quality I) and Gp (green peas grains), as biplot, PC1 explained 86.788% of variance, and PC2 explained 13.079% of variance. The cluster analysis led to the dendrogram of grouping the variants based on similarity in relation to the considered parameters. The regression analysis led to models of equations and graphs (3D, isoquants) regarding the variation of Gp in relation to Pgp and Pgp Q1. The a2b4 variant facilitated the best values for the analyzed parameters (Pgs, Pgs Q1, Gp).

Landscape-based design as an instrument for sustainable development in heritage conservation

Abstract The project for restoring and valorizing the “Jumelţ” iron furnace historical monument dating from the 19th century and located in Zimbru village, Arad County, has been substantiated by a series of analyses and specialized investigations. The landscape study, based on a hybrid methodology, has led to a specific set of knowledge of the local physical and social conditions and to the highlighting of the relations between the heritage object and its proximity. In conclusion, the knowledge generated by the landscape research has directly influenced the design process, has indicated the legitimacy of reconnecting the heritage monument to its context, as a non-speculative design approach, and has also facilitated the integration of sustainable development measures.

The Sustainability Study Done for a Consolidation Work on a Historical Building

A very important problem encountered all over the world and increasingly widespread is represented by sustainability. The construction field is responsible for a high environmental impact, for the entire duration of a building’s operation, from the construction stage until its demolition. This paper presents a sustainability study, performed on an old historical building located in Romania—Arad County, which implied the consolidation of its resistance structure as a result of visible degradation. The study was performed using the Bob–Dencsak Calculation Model, which involved research into several specific parameters for each dimension separately (ecological, economic and social). Besides establishing the sustainability class for the consolidated building, an analysis was done on the impact that metal has as compared to reinforced concrete, thus resulting in the finding that metal is less sustainable than reinforced concrete, achieving growths of up to 42% for embodied energy and 28.50% of CO2 emissions in the atmosphere. Finally, the paper offers recommendations for future sustainability assessment research with the aim of increasing the quality of life and minimizing the negative impact on the environment with minimal costs.

First Molecular Identification of Calicophoron daubneyi (Dinnik, 1962) and Paramphistomum leydeni (Nasmark, 1937) in Wild Ruminants from Romania.

Rumen flukes are geographically widespread trematodes affecting wild and domestic ruminants. The juvenile forms, which are found in the small intestine, are more pathogenic compared to the adults. Severe diarrhoea and weight loss are the major clinical signs, and the disease might be fatal in severely infested individuals. In the last decade, paramphistomosis has been described as an emerging parasitic disease in Europe. This study aimed to identify the rumen fluke species in wild ruminants from western Romania. Fifty-two pre-stomachs obtained from roe deer (Capreolus capreolus) that were hunted on 14 hunting grounds from Timiș and Arad counties were examined for the presence of paramphistomes. Three (9.09%) out of 33 samples were positive in Timiș County, and one (5.26%) out of 19 samples was positive in Arad County. Subsequent PCR testing revealed that three samples were positive for Calicophoron daubneyi and one for Paramphistomum leydeni. The presence of C. daubneyi and P. leydeni in roe deer has not been previously reported in Romania. Two Paramphistomum species-C. daubneyi and P. leydeni-were revealed as the main species of rumen flukes in roe deer from forests in Romania.

The Role of Multimedia Teaching - Learning Strategies in the Development of Competencies of Primary School Pupils

: In these times of educational needs and requirements, and especially after the Covid pandemics, where both teachers and students were forced to adapt to new educational situations, the idea of multimedia took new meanings. In the present brief study, I would like to highlight the main definitions that stand behind the concept of media and multimedia, in order to get a better understanding. Then, I would like to present the main advantages and disadvantages of the use of multimedia teaching – learning strategies in education. Also, I present some curiosities about the main downloaded tools used in education and belonging to multimedia area, and also some practical ideas about how to introduce them into the daily schedule of pupils, in order to get better results in education. The main objective of the study is to see the real situation of multimedia strategy use in Romanian primary schools, mainly those from Arad County. I finish my study by presenting and describing some of the best practices in terms of multimedia use in education and how they manage to develop some competencies of primary school pupils. The preliminary results show that multimedia tools used in primary schools from Arad County, develop several competencies, such as transversal and key competences. Suggestions are that multimedia strategies should be used weekly in the teaching learning routine of pupils in order to get better outcomes.

TEACHER – PARENT COLABORATION IN PLANNING AND PRACTICING OUTDOOR EDUCATION IN PRIMARY SCHOOL

The present brief study is based on the issue of planning and practicing outdoor education in primary school. We have enhanced the role of adults in planning, which means projecting and preparing space, time and resources. Also, we have underlined the aspect of including parents in all aspects, starting from the planning phase and also to be actively present in the practicing part. In the second part of the article, we have included research, about the role of adults in outdoor learning activities in primary school. In this matter, we are going to present the results of a focus group, both with parents and teachers from a primary school in Arad County. The preliminary results show the fact that parents expect better communication from teachers in order to get better prepared and involved in the outdoor activities of their children.

Medieval stone carvings from the Castle of Borosjenő (Ineu, Arad County, Romania)

The castle of Borosjenő (Ineu, Romania), which is largely Renaissance in form, also displays important architectural phases from before and after this period. During the on-site art historical research of 2016 and 2019 it was an especially important task removing numerous Romanesque, pre-1200 carvings in secondary use as building material. The (majority of) carvings we have identified most likely originated in the monastery of Dénesmonostora (Dienesmonostora), which once stood near Borosjenõ. Probably by the end of the fourteenth century, when it had disappeared from the written sources, and certainly by the sixteenth century, the monastery had been abandoned, and its remains have since disappeared. Proof of the high artistic value of these carvings was the capital depicting a siren, removed during the reconstruction of the castle in the 1870s. The owner of the castle at that time donated it to the Hungarian National Museum in Budapest, where today it is a part of the permanent collection. Some of the newly-founded capitals and other decorative architectural elements have very rare analogies in the Hungarian Romanesque architecture, but show artistic connections with the Alsace region (e.g. Sainte foy church in Sélestat). Several other medieval fragments can be dated to a period later than the twelfth century. The paper contains also a catalogue of about thirty-eight carved stone-fragments.

Handbook for Medicines by Iosif Țiucra, a Teacher. A Nineteenth-Century Manuscript in the History of Pharmacy Collection (MNIT)

"Among the numerous artifacts preserved in the History of Pharmacy Collection of the National Museum of Transylvanian History in Cluj‑Napoca (MNIT) there is an unpublished manuscript, a handbook with practical medical advice, dated 1876 and written in Romanian by Iosif Țiucra, a schoolteacher activating in Bârsa (Berza) village, Arad County. This research aims to present Iosif Țiucra, the content of his manuscript and to contextualize his handbook, considering the sanitary problems of the Romanian community in Arad County, in the middle of the nineteenth century."

The Sustainability of a Building Made by using of Recycling Materials

A very important problem encountered all over the world and increasingly widespread in the construction field is represented by sustainability. This paper presents a sustainability study, performed on a building located in Romania - Arad County, which involved the consolidation and expansion of an existing building in order to create an investment with the functionality of an agrotourism guesthouse. The sustainability study involved the calculation of coefficients of the environmental dimension on the basis of which the embodied energy and green house gas emissions GHG were estimated as a result of the selected materials, transportation and equipment used during the process. The social dimension was taken into account by establishing the coefficients that influence visual, acoustic and thermal comfort. Besides the fact that modern construction resulted from the perspective of the materials and equipment used, an important factor represents that, part of the materials that resulted from the partial demolition of the existing construction, were reused.

The Idol Moloch in the Church. The Interconnection of Calvinist Identity and the Memory of Reformation in the South-Eastern Part of the Hungarian Kingdom in the 18th Century

"In Vadász, Arad County, in the second third of the 18th century, the statue of Moloch in the village church caused a conflict, as the local Reformed minister had had it destroyed around 1769. At first glance, the situation seems simple since it is not customary in Reformed churches to have the decoration typical of Catholic churches, so it is not surprising that the minister removed it. Yet the situation is not clear-cut because we do not know why it had not bothered anyone in the two hundred years since the Reformation began. In our study, we describe – through the example of the statue destruction in Vadász – what Reformed identity was like in the Kingdom of Hungary in the 18th century. In our analysis, we find that the development of Reformed conscience was delayed compared to the western half of Europe. The same is demonstrated in the 18th-century Reformed Church history writings, as the events of the Reformation had not been put on paper in most congregations up until then. Most congregational histories are based on oral traditions, with little historical literature being used to support them. Keywords: collective memory, Reformed church, oral tradition, historiography, Calvinist identity, history of reading, idol demolition, history of Reformation, Hungarian Kingdom "

THE STUDY OF SOME LANDRACES OF GARLIC FROM THE WESTERN REGION OF ROMANIA REGARDING CERTAIN QUANTITATIVE CHARACTERS

The processes of growth, development and formation of production are determined genetically. They take place permanently under the influence of environmental conditions and agro-phytotechnical cultivation interventions. The objectives of this study were to analyze certain quantitative characteristics of the landraces of garlic from Timis county and Arad county, taken into study that can be useful for garlic production. This study shows us the fact that the landraces from Timis county, in terms of the quantitative characteristics bulbs weight and cloves weight, have the highest values, and the landraces from Arad county, namely the one from Ineu, stood out with a higher value for the number of cloves from the bulbs.