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This paper primarily aims to address aspects related to regional development in Romania, which has become a challenge both at the national and global level. The way regional development is approached is different, depending on the particularities of each country, as well as the governing ideologies in each state. However, the goal is common, one aims at shaping a competitive and strong economy, a high standard of living, access to education and medical assistance. The purpose of the paper is to compare socio-economic indicators from two time periods, to highlight similarities and differences and to observe their evolution within a 10-year timespan. The method used is Principal Component Analysis (PCA) to identify groups of statistical indicators (variables) that explain the level of development within a sample, in our case the development regions of Romania. In the context of regional development, PCA can be applied to extract relevant information about economic, social or demographic variability in different regions of the country. Several objectives of regional development analyzed through the lens of this method were pursued: identification of regional disparities, optimization of resource allocation, evaluation of the determining factors of economic development, monitoring of the impact of regional policies. Following the PCA analysis, it was observed that regional development cannot be evaluated by means of variables belonging to a single sector. This method allowed the identification of the variables that have the greatest weight describing economic, social, educational and infrastructure aspects. PCA was applied for two time periods and similar situations were obtained, the first main component called by the authors the economic statistics includes for both periods the indicators: Gross average nominal salary gain, GDP by development regions, Employees from research and development activity at the end of the year, Beds in health facilities (state and private). The second component was called social statistics and includes the indicator Employment rate in working age (15-64 years), and the third component called agricultural statistics includes the indicator Population served by the public water supply system. As a conclusion, we consider that the situations are not overlapping because there are indicators that have undergone changes during the 10 years, which is expected and normal in regional development. For example, the number of graduates decreased due to the continuously decreasing birth rate, the vacancy rate decreased in 2018-2019 compared to 2008-2009 because Romania went through the financial economic crisis.

Background and objectives: Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a common arrhythmia associated with various risk factors and significant morbidity and mortality. Materials and methods: This article presents findings from a study involving 345 patients with permanent AF. This study examined demographics, risk factors, associated pathologies, complications, and anticoagulant therapy over the course of a year. Results: The results showed a slight predominance of AF in males (55%), with the highest incidence in individuals aged 75 and older (49%). Common risk factors included arterial hypertension (54%), dyslipidemia, diabetes mellitus type 2 (19.13%), and obesity (15.65%). Comorbidities such as congestive heart failure (35.6%), mitral valve regurgitation (60%), and dilated cardiomyopathy (32%) were prevalent among the patients. Major complications included congestive heart failure (32%), stroke (17%), and myocardial infarction (5%). Thromboembolic and bleeding risk assessment using CHA2DS2-VASc and HAS-BLED scores demonstrated a high thromboembolic risk in all patients. The majority of patients were receiving novel oral anticoagulants (NOACs) before admission (73%), while NOACs were also the most prescribed antithrombotic therapy at discharge (61%). Conclusions: This study highlights the importance of risk factor management and appropriate anticoagulant therapy in patients with AF, to reduce complications and improve outcomes. The results support the importance of tailored therapeutic schemes, for optimal care of patients with AF.

The aim of this study was to trace the effects of growth environment on the behaviour of fattening pigs in the farm and outside it. Behavioural manifestations of pigs reared in pens with enriched environment (A lot, n: 22) were different from those of pigs reared in pens with arid environment (B lot, n: 17) in shelter and when the movement to be loaded. Pigs of B lot spent more time on the move (31%) compared to group A pigs (13%), and manifested more aggressive behaviour when they were loaded. Salivary cortisol levels also showed high values for pigs in B lot after being removed from their growth environment, as compared to its concentration for A lot pigs. The enriched environment for pigs may determine different responses of behaviour. Pigs raised in arid environment, were easier to load than pigs reared in enriched environment, but they responded to mixing and loading stress, through increases in cortisol concentrations and impaired behavioural manifestations.

The study has monitored the effects of transport stress on some biochemical indicators of stress and behavior lambs at time of slaughter. The research was carried out in the cold season, on a number of 120 lambs, transported for 6h-16h, to be slaughtered. During our research, we followed the changes in bodyweight, behaviours expressed by sheep, and plasma cortisol levels. Bodyweight loss recorded in the slaughterhouse to 24 hours of departure transportation was of 4-5%. The behavioural manifestations of lambs were different from the destination, depending on journey duration. Lambs behaviour was different depending on the journey, the resting and watering were mostly present manifestations. Increased in cortisol levels measured at 3 h after leaving the vehicle was maintained at 9 h after the journey. Increased duration of rest before slaughter can reduce the stress of transport in case of lambs ensures obtaining good quality meat.

Animal transport in vehicles, regardless of how well organized, implies a sudden change of living conditions from the ones in the farms together with an adaptation effort on the animals’ part which subsequently modifies the quality level of their welfare. This fact is therefore expressed in a typical stress reaction, state to which the animals are subject to during transport. Research has monitored transport related stress on sheep welfare (n: 35), by looking at their physiological responses both during transport and when destination was reached. Along the three monitored situations, the travel time differed from 7h to 14h and 20h, to two final destinations – a farm and a slaughterhouse. Transport conditions were identical for journeys longer than 8h and different for the one up to 8h long. The sheep welfare physiological indicators monitored highlighted variations of heart rate and plasmatic cortisol levels i.e. their significant increase only at sheep loading and unloading times, regardless of the type of platform used for this manoeuvre. Plasmatic glucose levels decreased when the travel time was long, while urea levels showed an increase in all three cases. Bodyweight decreased (4,9% - 7,19%) depending on the travel time and lack of fodder and water during this time. The travel time may be considered one of the essential transport related stress factors leading to the decrease of the sheep welfare quality level.

Background and objectives: B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) represents a clinical tool for the diagnosis and prognostic evaluation of acute and chronic heart failure patients. The purpose of this retrospective study was to evaluate BNP values in obese and non-obese patients with acute heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. Materials and methods: In this study, we enrolled 240 patients who presented to the emergency department complaining of acute shortness of breath and fatigue. The patients were divided into two groups according to their body mass index (BMI) values. The BMI was calculated as weight (kilograms) divided by height (square meters). The BNP testing was carried out in the emergency department. Results: Group I included patients with a BMI of 2 and group II included patients with a BMI of ≥30 kg/m2. The average age of the patients was 60.05 ± 5.02 years. The patients in group II were significantly younger compared with those included in group I. Group II included a higher number of women compared to group I. Group I had fewer patients classified within New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional classes III and IV compared with group II. Echocardiography revealed an ejection fraction of ≥50% in all participants. Lower BNP levels were observed in patients from group II (median = 56, IQR = 53–67) in comparison to group I (median = 108.5, IQR = 106–112) (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Obesity and heart failure are continuously rising worldwide. In this retrospective study, we have highlighted the necessity to lower the threshold of BNP levels in obese patients with acute heart failure and preserved ejection fraction.

The growing demand for nutritious foods has spurred investigations into alternative sources of nutrition beyond traditional options. For this reason, the present study approaches amaranth, which is a plant with high nutritional potential. Based on the unique pedoclimatic conditions of the Somes meadow in Transylvania and the known adaptability of amaranth varieties to diverse environments, we hypothesize that certain amaranth varieties of South American origin will demonstrate their potential for morphological development, grain biomass yield, and quantitative characteristics when cultivated in this specific environment. Our study aims to identify if, based on morpho-productive traits, the six amaranth varieties under investigation in a specific environment are suitable for consumption as functional food. A bifactorial trial was implemented with the following factors: amaranth species and amaranth varieties. Two species and seven varieties of amaranth were studied. Differences are reported between morpho-productive and quantitative traits of the seven amaranth varieties studied in this research. The Pearson simple correlations show that morphological traits moderately contribute to grain fresh biomass yield, while morphological traits and fresh biomass strongly contributed to grains dry biomass yield. Our study shows that while current research offers valuable perspectives on the performance and nutritional composition of amaranth varieties studied, there are recommended more studies conducted across diverse environments.

The objective of our study was to explore the potential benefits of combining moderate alcohol consumption with regular vigorous physical activity on HDL-cholesterol levels and its poten-tial positive impact on cardiovascular health. Materials and methods: The study comprised two groups: group A (102 patients) that consumed 10 grams of alcohol per day, specifically red wine, and increased their exercise levels in addition to their standard medical treatment, and group B (108 patients) which adhered only to their standard medical treatment. The patients were monitored for a year, during which various clinical parameters were observed. Results: Our study showed that moderate alcohol consumption, particularly red wine, along with in-creased physical activity levels, were associated with enhancements in exercise tolerance and elevated levels of HDL-cholesterol. Our findings suggest the efficacy of the intervention in im-proving lipid profiles, with the group that consumed alcohol as part of their treatment scheme, generally experiencing more pronounced positive effects. Statistically significant differences between groups in terms of angina evolution, acute myocardial infarction (AMI) recurrence, or arrhythmias evolution were not found. However, there were important differences in terms of ejection fraction (EF) improvement and quality of life, with the alcohol consuming group dis-playing greater improvements in both aspects. Conclusions: In conclusion, our study empha-sizes the potential benefits of combining moderate alcohol consumption, specifically red wine, with increased physical activity levels for improving exercise tolerance and enhancing HDL-cholesterol levels. However, further research and clinical trials are essential to fully un-derstand the mechanisms and optimize the integration of these lifestyle elements for improved cardiovascular health outcomes.

Our research monitored the response of some welfare indicators in sport horses during transport by assessing the intensity of stress during travel time, changes in heart rate, cortisol, lactic acid and creatinine levels. The horses included in the study were separated into 2 groups: horses that were transported for the first time (A n: 12) and horses that had been previously transported (B n: 10). The values of the indicators varied between the two groups regardless of the fact that travel length and transport conditions were almost identical. The heart rate and cortisol levels were elevated in horses from group A as compared to the ones in group B while the latter showed increased levels of these indicators upon repeating the loading and unloading (100-130 nmol/l). The recorded value of lactic acid was higher for the first group (2,2 mmol/l), only until the moment when the horses adapted to the effort, after which it decreased (1,8 mmol/l). Transport of horses under certain conditions related to their adjusting to manhandling during loading and unloading operations, as well as the animals’ temper, may be considered a stress factor with significant depreciating effect on horse welfare.

The aim of our study was to assess the welfare of pregnant sows housed in collective pens, based on indicators such as behavior, skin lesions and lameness in two commercial farms where the floor area (A- continuous, B- slatted) and environmental enrichment have been different. Observations were made on 120 pregnant sows (LandracexLarge White), during pregnancy period. Behavior was assessed by direct observation, and each event was expressed in terms of total active behavioural manifestation. Skin lesions were rated on a three degree scale from 0 to 2 (absence of lesions, surface lesions, severe lesions). Investigation behavior was clearly shown in B pens (67%) compared with A (52%) in the first and last weeks of gestation; a high incidence of positive social interactions was recorded in A pens (21%). Number of sows with lameness was higher in A pens (3,9%) compared with B pens (1,7%), and the skin lesions of 4,5% in B pens. All indicators monitored have recorded changes in both pen types. The welfare of pregnant sows should be evaluated using different criteria depending on breeding technology.

Animal transport represents even nowadays one of the stressors that induce poor animal welfare. The research aimed to identify potential risk factors affecting the health and welfare of horses transported to the slaughterhouse and methods in which they could be corrected. The study tracked a total of 3196 adult horses from collecting farms (lot F, n: 2490), and from households (lot H, n: 706) transported to the slaughterhouse on a journey that did not exceed 8 hours, in accordance with the Regulation EC 1/2005 on the protection of animals during transport. The incidence of injuries in loading/unloading of horses, varied in group F (12.2%) compared to H (3.4%). Associated with this incidence, the behavioural response was passive for 10% horses in group F, in comparison to 70% horses in group H, as against the restlesness noticed for 42% horses in group F, and 21% in H. In determining the risk factors associated with the poor welfare of horses during short-term transport, the lack of experience of both horses and personnel involved in transport-related operations, mainly moving, loading and unloading, were taken into account, as playing a main part in animal health and welfare.

The purpose of this research was to establish the manner in which the flooring type may influence the welfare levels in dairy cows by assessment of laminitis incidence and animals’ behaviour. 42 dairy cows were grouped based on the shelter floor surface: concrete with straw bedding, asphalted concrete with straw bedding and concrete plus shavings. The behaviour was assessed through direct observation and laminitis incidence was established by numerical assessment of locomotion prior or following milking. The results have indicated an increase of laminitis incidence by 15-25 % in B and C lot and was absent in A lot. The large number of diseases was recorded on concrete floors with shavings bedding (53%). The behavioural displays of the cows suffering from laminitis were different from the healthy ones, as their resting behaviour outside the stalls was more prevalent (17.6% compared to 8.8%) while the feeding behaviour was less present (10.1% compared to 14.7%). Likewise, the socializing behaviour was more active in these animals, compared to the healthy cows.

According to the European and national legislation which set the minimum standards for pig protection, the castration of piglets after the age of seven days must be performed only under prolonged anaesthesia and analgesia. As far as welfare is concerned, pig castration in these conditions is mandatory in order to reduce to the minimum the pain generated by the surgical method itself. Immunocastration is an alternative methods to surgical castration based on the use of antibodies against the gonadotropin releasing hormone (Gn-RH), which once neutralized suppresses testicles development and function and inhibits the smell of boar. The aims of this study were to see the immunocastration effects on productive performance in pigs PIC hybrids. Animals included in the study were PIC fattening pigs, grouped in two groups: A lot (n: 485) - surgically castrated pigs, and B lot (n: 604) - immunocastrated pigs. The fattening technology was identical for all pigs included in this study. Pigs’ immunization was performed using Improvac®. The results obtained showed that A lot recorded a daily average weight gain of 785 g, while loss due to mortality was 2.82 %. In the case of lot B, the recorded daily average weight gain was 834 g (49g higher than the one in lot A), while loss due to mortality were 2.59 % (0.23 % lower than in lot A). Pig immunocastration is an acceptable method as far as welfare standards are concerned, reducing the stress generated by surgical castration. Productive performance in immunocastrated pigs are improved compared to the one of surgically castrated pigs.

Surgical castration of male pigs has become increasingly less accepted at present due to the fact that it is a direct animal welfare concern. UE welfare conditions demand that this method be dropped starting 2018 in order to eliminate the stress and associated pain it induces. Immunocastration is one of the alternatives to surgical castration that ensures male pig welfare and eliminates the boar smell of the meat. The objective of this research has been to identify the immunocastration effects on meat quality, compared with the meat from surgically castrated pigs. The animals assessed during research were fattening PIC pigs, grouped into two lots: surgically castrated pigs (SC) and immunocastrated pigs (IC). Pig immunization was achieved by means of ImprovacTM. The results have shown that immunocastrated pigs recorded a 60.2% carcass meat compared to the 59.69% carcass meat achieved in surgically castrated pigs, thus displaying statistically insignificant differences (p>0.05). Fat layer thickness was significantly lower in immunocastrated pigs compared to the marker lot (p≤0.05). Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae lung lesions recorded were lower in immunocastrated pigs compared to the surgically castrated animals (p>0.05). Despite the fact that differences have been statistically insignificant, we are able to confirm that immunocastrated pigs display a lower incidence of respiratory disease compared to surgically castrated pigs. In this study there were not significant differences in meat quality between surgically castrated pigs and immunocastrated pigs.

The Welfare Quality® European Protocol represents today the assessment reference standard for farm animal welfare and makes use of measurements for both animals and resources. The scope and purpose of this study is to assess the welfare of fattening pigs raised intensively by monitoring the sanitary and behavioral status of animals while applying this protocol. The assessment was conducted in a farm raising fattening pigs (n: 580), over the course of two years, monitoring the welfare criteria and principles described by this protocol. Data obtained showed differences amongst the three lots of animals monitored from the perspective of behavioral displays and health condition - incidence of lesions and laminitis was higher with the first lot while the behavioral displays evolved differently over the course of the study. Data analysis, causes identification and suggestions made based on the former two led to an improvement of welfare levels comparable amongst the three lots of pigs that underwent the study. Welfare Quality® system, represents a safe instrument which, once applied in welfare assessment of pigs raised in intensive systems, contributes to the improvement of the animals’ life quality.

The research was carried out in broiler houses coming from a commercial broiler farm. Two consecutive series of broiler were followed for each of the specific housing conditions in terms of bedding quality: straw: series 1 and 2 in shelter H4 and bedding mixture: ¼ straw and the rest sawdust for series 1 and 2 housed in shelter H10. The microclimate parameters were monitored daily in three different areas, the value of the three readings representing the average. To reduce the pH of the bedding and inclusive of the removal of ammonia resulting from the degradation of organic matter in the bedding, it is returned 2-3 times a week. The results reveal that: there are no exceedances of the values in terms of physical parameters of microclimate, between them there are extremely significant correlations (positive or negative). The correlation between the temperature of the straw bedding and the carbon dioxide in the shelter air is extremely significant and insignificant at the level of the mixed bedding. The pH of the bedding has lower values in the case of the straw ¼+ sawdust mixture by turning the bedding 2-3 times a week. The temperature value at the bedding level is lower in the case of straw compared to the mixture of straw ¼+ sawdust (29.69±2.38 0C - 26.35±2.64 0C), which entails significant differences (*P

Research background: Big data-driven artificial Internet of Things (IoT) fintech algorithms can provide real-time personalized financial service access, strengthen risk management, and manage, monitor, and mitigate transaction operational risks by operational credit risk management, suspicious financial transaction abnormal pattern detection, and synthetic financial data-based fraud simulation. Blockchain technologies, automated financial planning and investment advice services, and risk scoring and fraud detection tools can be leveraged in financial trading forecasting and planning, cryptocurrency transactions, and financial workflow automation and fraud detection. Algorithmic trading and fraud detection tools, distributed ledger and cryptocurrency technologies, and ensemble learning and support vector machine algorithms are pivotal in predictive analytics-based risk mitigation, customer behavior and preference-based financial product and service personalization, and financial transaction and fraud detection automation. Credit scoring and risk management tools can offer financial personalized recommendations based on customer data, behavior, and preferences, in addition to transaction history, by generative adversarial and deep learning recurrent neural networks. Purpose of the article: We show that blockchain and edge computing technologies, generative artificial IoT-based fintech algorithms, and transaction monitoring and credit scoring tools can be harnessed in financial decision-making processes and loan default rate mitigation for transaction, payment, and credit process efficiency. Generative and predictive artificial intelligence (AI) algorithmic trading systems can drive coherent customer service operations, provide tailored financial and investment advice, and influence financial decision processing, while performing real-time risk assessment and financial and trading risk scenario simulation across fluctuating market conditions. Fraud and money laundering prevention tools, blockchain and financial transaction technologies, and federated and decentralized machine learning algorithms can articulate algorithmic profiling-based transaction data patterns and structures, credit assessment, loan repaying likelihood prediction, and interest rate and credit lending risk management by real-time financial pattern and economic forecast-based credit analysis across investment payment and transaction record infrastructures. Methods: Research published between 2023 and 2024 was identified and analyzed across ProQuest, Scopus, and the Web of Science databases by use of screening and quality assessment software systems such as Abstrackr, AMSTAR, AXIS, CADIMA, CASP, Catchii, DistillerSR, Eppi-Reviewer, MMAT, Nested Knowledge, PICO Portal, Rayyan, ROBIS, and SRDR+. Findings & value added: The main value added derived from the systematic literature review is that generative AI-based operational risk management, fraud detection, and transaction monitoring tools can provide personalized financial support and services and clarify financial and credit decisions and operations by financial decision-making process automation in dynamic business environments based on fraud detection capabilities and transaction data analysis and assessment. The benefits for theory and current state of the art are that credit risk and financial forecasting tools, artificial IoT-based fintech and generative AI algorithms, and algorithmic trading and distributed ledger technologies can be deployed in financial decisionmaking and customer behavior pattern optimization, credit score assessment, and money laundering and fraudulent payment detection. Policy implications reveal that investment management and algorithmic credit scoring tools can streamline financial activity operational efficiency, design financial planning analysis and forecasting, and carry out financial service and transaction data analysis for informed transaction decision-making and fraudulent behav ior pattern and incident detection, taking into account credit history and risk evaluation and improving personalized experiences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rabbit meat represents food with a chemical composition beneficial to the human body. Due to its protein content and low fat levels, it is widely used in the diet of people with various health problems. Through preparation and heat treatments, some components lose their value, and these treatments can also increase the content of compounds that can be toxic to the human body. The sensory characteristics obtained after frying and smoking are appreciated by most consumers. The highest average values are for phenanthrene, both in smoked and fried meats and in raw rabbit meat. Among the hydrocarbons analyzed, benzo(a)anthracene is in the lowest quantity, This study shows the influence of some cooking, frying and smoking processes on the content of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in rabbit meat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) was a global pandemic with high mortality and morbidity that led to an increased health burden all over the world. Although the virus mostly affects the pulmonary tract, cardiovascular implications are often observed among COVID-19 patients and are predictive of poor outcomes. Increased values of myocardial biomarkers such as troponin I or NT-proBNP were proven to be risk factors for respiratory failure. Although the risk of acute coronary syndromes (ACSs) was greater in the acute phase of COVID-19, there were lower rates of hospitalization for ACSs, due to patients’ hesitation in presenting at the hospital. Hospitalized ACSs patients with COVID-19 infection had a prolonged symptom-to-first-medical-contact time, and longer door-to-balloon time. The mechanisms of myocardial injury in COVID-19 patients are still not entirely clear; however, the most frequently implicated factors include the downregulation of ACE2 receptors, endothelial dysfunction, pro-coagulant status, and increased levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines. The aim of this paper is to evaluate the long-term outcomes and prognosis of COVID-19 survivors that presented an acute myocardial infarction, by reviewing existing data. The importance of the association between this infectious disease and myocardial infarction arises from the increased mortality of patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection and AMI (10–76%, compared with 4.6% for NSTEMI patients and 7% for STEMI patients without COVID-19). The literature review showed an increased risk of cardiovascular events in COVID-19 survivors compared with the general population, even after the acute phase of the disease, with poorer long-term outcomes.

Background and Objectives: The risk of developing cardiovascular diseases (CVD) in patients suffering from rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is two times higher compared to the general population. The objective of this retrospective study was to determine which cardiovascular complications can appear in men vs. women with rheumatoid arthritis. Early diagnosis and initiation of therapeutic measures to reduce the progression rate of rheumatoid arthritis, while also maintaining an active lifestyle, are the most important problems in young patients. Materials and Methods: We included a number of 200 patients, divided into two groups according to gender (124 women and 76 men) with rheumatoid arthritis, presenting various stages of disease concomitant with cardiovascular complications. We assessed traditional and non-traditional risk factors, as well as electrocardiographic and echocardiographic findings in both groups. Results: All patients presented an atherogenic coefficient over two, indicating a significant risk of atherogenesis. Men had elevated levels of total cholesterol compared with women (≥200 mg/dL; 77.6%—men vs. 25.8%—women, p < 0.001). The participants presented cardiac arrhythmias, especially in the active stage of RA. Women had an increased risk of atrial fibrillation by 2.308 times compared to men (p = 0.020). One of the most important complications found in young women was pulmonary arterial hypertension (p = 0.007). Conclusions: In daily clinical practice, the screening of RA is carried out in sufficiently. This disease is often undiagnosed, and the risk factors remain unassessed. As a result, RA patients continue to present an increased risk of developing CVD.

The studies aimed the energy metabolism determination in Mangalitsa pigs exposed at thermic neutral temperature, compared to Large White pigs. The experimental period was between 80 and 100 kg liveweight. The animals had free access to standard, isoprotein and isocalory diets, with 13.5% crude protein (CP) and 3100 kcal/kg metabolizable energy. Feed intake was measured on a daily basis. The energy-protein balance was calculated on the basis of comparative slaughter made at the beginning and end of the experiment. The metabolizable energy (MEc) was estimated by chemical analysis (feed and excreta) using mathematical modelling and the Whittemore’s formula. The metabolizable energy utilization efficiency was 0.61 at Large White and 0.53 at Mangalitsa.

The purpose of researches was to develop a mathematical model to simulate the growth process in piglets. The experiment was conducted on 53 Mangalitsa piglets, with initial weight (Wi) of 0.95 kg. The final weight was 30.7 kg. The piglets have been fed ad libitum with standard diets. Body weight, compound feed intake and feed conversion ratio were monitored throughout the experimental period. Housing environmental parameters were according to the growth technology. The feed samples were analyzed according the Weende scheme. The crude protein was determined by Tecator – Kyeltec Auto Analyze, the ether extract by Soxtec System HT and the brute cellulose by gravimetric method. The Gompertz-type functions were used for the mathematical modelling of the growth process. Gompertz function is a type of mathematical model for a time series, with sigmoid appearance. The weight evolution was evaluated from the initial weight (Wi). Based on data on the evolution of body weight was made a mathematical model that allows estimation of growth in standard conditions of maintenance.

The experiment used 240 Landrace pigs assigned to 3 groups. The control group received ground dry feed; group 1 received wet feed 1/1, while group 2 received pelleted feed. The compound feeds were assayed with the Weende method. Compared to the control group, the 60 kg weight was reached three days later by the animals with wet feeding and four days earlier by the animals receiving pelleted feed. At the wet feeding, the average daily gain was 484 g, near control group (p ≤ 0.05) and the feed conversion ratio was 8.9% lower. Wet feeding is an economic alternative for pig feeding during heir first fattening stage, improving the local microclimate by the generation of less powders.

This paper aims at making a review of the artificial intelligence concept, its global scope from the agro-livestock sector perspective and the understanding, approach and application of this concept Romania in early 2021. Artificial intelligence is a computer science sub-field that is materialized by algorithms developed starting from the logical or mathematical models of the cognition, perception and action processes. Globally, large agricultural companies are trying to grasp concepts such as big data, artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning and analysis. These areas have moved rapidly towards the agro-livestock sector too, but most companies have not been prepared to deal thoroughly with these new technologies. It really sounds interesting, but what does it take to take the next steps? The voice of the expert says: “If we really want to have a global impact on food sustainability, production and safety, we need to think about data standards, data sharing, benchmarking and analysis on aggregated data sets. Today, we see farmers who are reluctant to share data with agritech companies that have developed closed systems, which will hinder the evolution of things” (Claudia Roessler, IT specialist, Microsoft).

In vivo experiments on broilers were conducted in order to elaborate a mathematical model for body synthesis, the experimental data being processed with Gompertz time functions and linear functions. The experiment used 166, Ross 308 day-old chicks through an experimental period of 42 days. The broilers received diets according to the growth period (1 – 14, 15 – 28, 29 – 42 days). The dietary energy and nutrient supply for group 1 (control) were according to the recommendation of Ross Breeders. The birds had free access to the feed. Group 2 received 90% and group 3 received 80% of the amount of feed received by group 1; the dietary energy supply was 90% in group 4 and 80% in group 5, also related to group 1. Mathematical modelling was used to evaluate the evolution of the body chemical composition (water, protein and lipid content), starting from the protein content at hatching.

The study was conducted on bee families of Apis mellifera carpatica and Apis mellifera ligustica breeds. The bees were housed in multi-storey hives. The experimental period was of 6 months. The resistance to wintering was evaluated on the basis of several apicultural indicators: mortality, feed intake during the winter, general state of the family. Mortality was 35% during wintering for the Carpathian bee and 52% for the Italian bee. The differences were very significant (p≤0.001). When wintering finished all bee families were in good strength. The general state of the bee family was as follows: the Carpathian bee had a strong family when wintering started and ended with a median power; it had a large number of young bees and sufficient reserves; no diarrhoea or mould were noticed; relative humidity was 74%. The Italian bee had a strong family when wintering started and ended with half of the power because of the high mortality during the winter; no diarrhoea or mould were noticed; relative humidity was 69%.

It has made a study concerning the biological development of hybrid bee’s families (Italian x Carpathian) comparative with Carpathian bee’s families. The bees were housed in multi-storey hives. The following parameters were studied: the queen bee prolificacy, the flight intensity during harvesting, the flight intensity during bad weather the irascibility, the behaviour of the bees during the survey and the predisposition to swarming. At the hybrid families, queen bee prolificacy and the rate of old bee’s replacement were significantly higher (p≤0.01). In terms of the flight intensity during bad weather and the swarming instinct, were not found significant differences (p≥0.05).

It was study the feed conversion efficiency in Japanese quail using energy and protein balances during the peak period of laying. The quails were given a diet with 20% crude protein and 2880 ME kcal/kg feed. The feed was given ad libitum. The environmental temperature was 250C (neutral thermal zone). The energy and protein balances were studied for three weeks. It was monitored the fallowing parameters: feed intake, excreted waste, body weight evolution, egg production. Feed, excreta and samples of egg and meat were analyzed according to Weende scheme. On the basis of digestibility and comparative slaughtering, were determined the energy and protein requirements for maintenance and for protein and fat retention mathematical assisted. The daily feed intake was 361 KJ gross energy and 5.32 g crude protein. The energy and protein requirements for maintenance were 648 KJ/kg0.75 and 6.2 g/ kg0.75. The efficiency of metabolisable energy utilisation on egg production was 26.6% and for corporal synthesis 5.5%. The obtained results will be used to develop a mathematical model for energy and protein retention in Japanese laying quail.

Introduction: Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is the most common type of arthritis in children and teens. The inflammation of various joints causes pain. Early diagnosis and management of the patients, which include medication and rehabilitation therapies, can reduce the onset of complications. Despite the progress in managing this disease, there are cases which present severe complications. Material and Methods: A 13-year-old girl, diagnosed with JIA in a paediatric service in 2019, who is under treatment with Sulfasalzine since diagnosis, presented in the Paediatric Rehabilitation Centre of Băile 1 Mai with inflammatory pain in both knees, gait impairment with need of wheelchair, limited function in hands, elbows, shoulders, knees and hips which worsened in 2022, due to low compliance to the treatment and no check-up with a paediatric rheumatologist. She had 8 admissions in the Paediatric Rehabilitation Centre between October 2022 and July 2023. The examination reveals that there is a severe limitation of mobility in both hips and knees, the hands’ small joints, elbows and shoulders. Laboratory tests were conducted showing no inflammatory markers. The radiographic finds sustained the changes encountered at the clinical examination. During her admissions in the Paediatric Rehabilitation Centre, she underwent a complex rehabilitation program which consisted of kinetotherapy, hydrokinetotherapy, massage, occupational therapy and physical agents. The program was designed according to the needs and the disease activity. Pharmacological means were used for the management of pain. The results were limited and the ability of standing up and walking were not recovered. Conclusion: In conclusion, JIA is a complex disease, which needs an early diagnosis and an early management program, which comprises of pharmacological treatment, rehabilitation program. Teamwork is necessary for managing JIA cases. The lack of compliance, and inadequate medication can lead to disabling complications.

In a shared environment, our companion animals became unintended sentinels for pollutant exposure consequences, developing even earlier similar conditions to humans. This review focused on the human–pet cohabitation in an environment we all share. Alongside other species, canine and feline companions are veritable models in human medical research. The latency period for showing chronic exposure effects to pollutants is just a few years in them, compared to considerably more, decades in humans. Comparing the serum values of people and their companion animals can, for example, indicate the degree of poisonous lead load we are exposed to and of other substances as well. We can find 2.4 times higher perfluorochemicals from stain- and grease-proof coatings in canine companions, 23 times higher values of flame retardants in cats, and 5 times more mercury compared to the average levels tested in humans. All these represent early warning signals. Taking these into account, together with the animal welfare orientation of today’s society, finding non-invasive methods to detect the degree of environmental pollution in our animals becomes paramount, alongside the need to raise awareness of the risks carried by certain chemicals we knowingly use.

Background and objectives: This article highlights the relationship between metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular disease, providing a comprehensive overview of its risk factors and prevalence. Metabolic syndrome, characterized by a cluster of interconnected risk factors, significantly increases the risk of developing cardiovascular disease and type II diabetes. Materials and methods: This study, conducted over a one-year period, involved 117 patients aged between 30 and 79 years old. Various parameters were analyzed, such as gender, age, education level, provenance from urban or rural environment, smoking, alcohol consumption, dietary aspects, physical activity, and their contribution to the appearance of metabolic syndrome. Central adiposity and high blood pressure emerged as prominent elements of the condition. Results: The findings underscore the importance of a healthy lifestyle in the prevention and management of metabolic syndrome. Encouraging regular physical activity, maintaining a balanced diet, rich in fresh vegetables and fruits, and avoiding harmful behaviors, such as smoking or alcohol consumption, are essential in reducing the risk of metabolic syndrome and its associated cardiovascular complications. Conclusions: The study highlights the need for public health initiatives, as well as individualized preventive strategies to combat the rising prevalence of metabolic syndrome. Through promoting awareness of its risk factors and implementing effective interventions, healthcare professionals can contribute to better cardiovascular health worldwide. Further research in this area will continue to enhance our understanding of metabolic syndrome and refine preventive and therapeutic approaches for its management.

The aim was to choose the most efficient method to rear genetically strong queens: by overcrowding swarm or by orphaning the bees. The experiment was conducted in a private apiary in Teleorman County, between April and September 2015. The study was conducted on twenty colonies. The bees were housed in multi-story hives. The queens obtained by overcrowding swarm method had higher prolificacy, good organization of brood on frames and higher honey production. This method is indicated in apiaries with many hives, increasing the efficiency and productivity of bee colonies. The queens obtained by orphaning method assured bee families with low swarming predisposition. This method is indicated in small apiaries by reducing the labour intensity.

The purpose of the experiment was to evaluate the chemical composition of meat of Mangalica and Large White pigs. The animals were raised in alternative system and exposed to 8-11°C. The initial weight at was 100 kg. Preparation of the carcass was made after the classical method. Linear measures were made on warm carcass. The chemical composition of meat was determined to Longissimus dorsi muscle. The protein content of meat was determinate by Tecator - Kyltec Auto Analyze and fat content by Soxtec System HT. Data were statistically analyzed by ANOVA method. Comparative with Large White breed, at Mangalica pigs, the fat thickness was significantly higher by 93% (p≤0.001) and the water content of meat was lower by 8.6%. The fat content of meat was higher with 117% and cholesterol content was reduced with 32%, the differences being significant.

The study aimed to establish the effect of thermal stress on the productive performance of Mangalica breed. The animals were raised in alternative systems and exposed to 30-36°C and 8-11°C, respectively. The pigs had free access to standard, isoprotein and isocalory diets, with 13.5% crude protein (CP) and 3100 kcal/kg metabolizable energy. Feed intake was measured on a daily basis. The energy-protein balance was calculated on the basis of comparative slaughter made at the beginning and end of the experiment. The metabolizable energy (MEc) was estimated by chemical analysis (feed and excreta) using mathematical modelling and the Whittemore’s formula. The efficiency of energy utilization for protein synthesis was 0.48 at heat stress and 0.55 at cold stress; for fat retention was 0.52 and 0.77, respectively.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the productive performances of the Aberdeen Angus x Holstein and Jersey x Aberdeen Angus females reared in intensive system. In the period 0-15 months, the highest average daily gain was recorded in the Aberdeen Angus x Holstein heifers, followed by Jersey x Aberdeen Angus. These results showed the genetic power of Aberdeen Angus to transmit this character, both on the paternal line (the most obvious effect) and on the maternal line. In the Aberdeen Angus x Holstein females, the sire influence led to a decrease in the amount of milk. In the Jersey x Aberdeen Angus cows, the milk yield was 30.3% lower, compared to the Holstein cows, and 43.3% higher, than the Holstein x Aberdeen Angus cows (p ≤ 0.01). The crossbreeding between dairy breeds and Aberdeen Angus is recommended for profitability of small farms, because F1 females provide a fairly high milk production, and F1 males can be raised for meat.

The aim of the study was to evaluate the productive performances of the ROSS 308 broiler exposed to the alternative lighting program, starting from the third week: the control group C with nearly continuous program (23L:1D), the experimental group E1 with intermittent program of 16 h light (2L:1D) and the experimental group E2 with combined program of 16 h light (6L and six period 2L:1D). Three groups of 35000 chickens – one day old were experimented on. The chickens were raised in intensive system. The experimental period was 35 days. Compared with the control group, at the experimental groups the daily gain was less up to 4.6%, but the differences were not significant; the feed intake was significantly less up to 7% (p≤0.05), as a consequence of reducing the time of feeding. The viability was 95.8% at E1, 96.6% at E2 and 93.2% at the control group, the differences being insignificant. At the experimental group E2, the incidence of leg problems was significantly less. By applying the combined lighting program, the chickens have manifested the natural behaviour of feeding, resting and physical activity; they have allowed a higher capitalization of the nutrients and have ensured a better uniformity.

The study was conducted in a private apiary, in order to determine the most efficient method of wintering in Brasov County. The biological material was Apis mellifera carpathica Foti honey bees maintained in multi-storey hives. Ten hives were housed outdoor and ten in shelter. The parameters were monitored between October 2013 and March 2014. The monthly average temperatures were 9°C in October; 7°C in November; -8°C in December; -6°C in January; 2°C in February and 4°C in March. In the colonies housed in shelter, the consumption of honey during the winter was less than 34% and the mortality was less than 63.3%. The results were very significant (p≤ 0.01). The diarrhea was moderate compared to wintering hives outdoor. The laying of queen bees has resumed in late February, in both methods. It was observed that the colonies housed in shelter have refused to leave the hives and the intervention of beekeepers was required. This method is recommended in the regions with colds winters, even if it requires more effort to transport the hives.

The aim of this study as to monitor the growth process from birth to weaning (six months old) of the females and males Limousine calves maintained on pasture or shelter. The research was performed in a private farm situated in Covasna County. In this farm, the rearing of the calves was done without a technological guide. The calves were reared along with the mother cows for six months. The introduction of vegetal food into the calves ration was done at 3 weeks of age. In the first period (first month), all calves were housed in shelter, having free access to the paddock. The daily gain was 666.7 g in females and 800 g in males. In the second period (from one month of age until weaning), a group was maintained on pasture, and the other group in shelter. The daily gain was 1120 g in females and 1200 g in males on pasture; 1067 g and 1140 g, respectively in shelterhe stress of weaning was present only to the young females; for ten days, these were restlessness, having the desire for sucking and the appetite for food has decreased. Their bodyweight has decreased with 12%, the differences being significant (p≤0.05).

Nowadays, there are a multitude of sources of heavy metal pollution which have unwanted effects on this super organism, the soil, which is capable of self-regulation, but limited. Living a healthy life through the consumption of fruits and vegetables, mushrooms, edible products and by-products of animal origin, honey and bee products can sometimes turn out to be just a myth due to the contamination of the soil with heavy metals whose values, even if they are below accepted limits, are taken up by plants, reach the food chain and in the long term unbalance the homeostasis of the human organism. Plants, these miracles of nature, some with the natural ability to grow on polluted soils, others needing a little help by adding chelators or amendments, can participate in the soil detoxification of heavy metals through phytoextraction and phytostabilization. The success of soil decontamination must take into account the collaboration of earth sciences, pedology, pedochemistry, plant physiology, climatology, the characteristics of heavy metals and how they are absorbed in plants, and in addition how to avoid the contamination of other systems, water or air. The present work materialized after extensive bibliographic study in which the results obtained by the cited authors were compiled.