Sabina Vlad | Ovidius University of Constanta (original) (raw)

Papers by Sabina Vlad

Research paper thumbnail of CMV and HIV Coinfection in Women from a Region in Eastern Europe

Journal of Personalized Medicine, Oct 25, 2023

Research paper thumbnail of Calprotectin, Biomarker of Depression in Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease?

Medicina

Background and Objectives: Calprotectin is a marker for intestinal inflammation. Recent research ... more Background and Objectives: Calprotectin is a marker for intestinal inflammation. Recent research suggests a link between inflammation and depression. This study assessed the association between the levels of calprotectin in patients from South-Eastern Europe and the severity of depression, anxiety, and quality of life. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study included 30 confirmed patients with Crohn’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC) who were assessed using clinical interviews for determining the severities of mental disorders (i.e., depression severity—PHQ-9, anxiety—GAD-7) and the quality of life (EQ-5D). Stool samples were collected from all participants for measuring their levels of calprotectin. Results: The level of calprotectin is correlated with PHQ-9 (ρ = 0.416, p = 0.022) and EQ-5D (ρ = −0.304, p = 0.033) but not with GAD 7 (ρ = 0.059, p = 0.379). Calprotectin levels in patients with mild, moderate, and moderately severe depression were significantly high...

Research paper thumbnail of The Role of Pathogenesis Associated with the Tumor Microclimate in the Differential Diagnosis of Uterine Myocytic Tumors

Journal of Clinical Medicine

Myocytic tumors of the uterus present vast morphological heterogeneity, which makes differential ... more Myocytic tumors of the uterus present vast morphological heterogeneity, which makes differential diagnosis between the different entities necessary. This study aims to enrich the existing data and highlight new potential therapeutic targets regarding aspects related to the pathogenic process and the tumor microenvironment in order to improve the quality of life of women. We performed a 5-year retrospective study, including particular cases of uterine myocyte tumors. Immunohistochemical analyses of pathogenic pathways (p53, RB1, and PTEN) and tumor microclimate using markers (CD8, PD-L1, and CD105), as well as genetic testing of the PTEN gene, were performed. The data were statistically analyzed using the appropriate parameters. In cases of atypical leiomyoma, a significant association was observed between PTEN deletion and an increased number of PD-L1+ T lymphocytes. For malignant lesions and STUMP, PTEN deletion was associated with the advanced disease stage. Advanced cases were al...

Research paper thumbnail of Food and light availability induce plastic responses in fire salamander larvae from contrasting environments

Research paper thumbnail of Nesting ecology and confirmed breeding of the invasive pond slider Trachemys scripta in an urban environment, Romania

European journal of wildlife research, May 27, 2024

The pond slider (Trachemys scripta) is a major invasive species in freshwater habitats across the... more The pond slider (Trachemys scripta) is a major invasive species in freshwater habitats across the world. For decades, the main cause of individuals' occurrences in the wild was the illegal release of pet animals. Recently, as an important component of their management, there has been an increasing focus on their ability to successfully reproduce in the invaded regions. In Romania, the species is reported as widespread in urban wetland environments within major cities, but information about its nesting and potential breeding remains scarce or anecdotal. We surveyed a large population of pond sliders in an artificial urban wetland site in Constanţa, SE Romania, and described their nesting ecology and reproductive output. Although eggs from several nests failed to hatch or were predated, potentially limiting their reproductive success, sliders were found to breed successfully at this site, with 18.6% viable hatchlings recorded. Our study could serve as a baseline for additional targeted surveys and to inform decision-making for successfully managing this invasive species. Although the importation, trading, and breeding of this species are prohibited by EU legislation, active and effective management is now required to address the successful reproduction and further potential spread of T. scripta.

Research paper thumbnail of Perception of visitors regarding the wildlife inhabiting an archaeological site

Human Dimensions of Wildlife, 2019

Cultural heritage sites are often located within biodiversity hotspots, which may induce human-wi... more Cultural heritage sites are often located within biodiversity hotspots, which may induce human-wildlife conflicts despite their effectiveness in attracting tourists. Mitigating these conflicts requires targeted conservation and education measures based on a solid understanding of how visitors perceive wildlife. We assessed visitors' perception of the major wildlife groups (i.e., amphibians, reptiles, water birds) that were detectable during visiting hours, within an archaeological site overlapping with a biodiversity hotspot in southeastern Romania. We explored whether age, gender, education, nationality, and awareness (i.e., prompted by guided tours, previous visits, or protection level of the area) influenced visitors' perception towards the different wildlife groups. Visitors were disturbed or felt repulsion mostly towards the less charismatic wildlife groups: snakes, frogs, and toads; the perception was significantly explained by gender, nationality and awareness. We recommend the site to be used to promote education regarding wildlife conservation, to improve visiting experience and protect less charismatic species.

Research paper thumbnail of Molecular analysis of recently introduced populations of the Italian wall lizard (Podarcis siculus)

Acta Herpetologica

In recent decades, many reptile species have been introduced outside their native ranges, either ... more In recent decades, many reptile species have been introduced outside their native ranges, either accidentally through the transportation of goods and materials (e.g., plants, construction materials), but also intentionally through the pet trade. As a paradigmatic example, the Italian wall lizard, Podarcis siculus, native to the Italian Peninsula, Sicily and the north Adriatic coast, has been introduced in several nearby islands since historical times (Corsica, Sardinia, Menorca). Besides these regions, scattered populations were later reported from the Iberian Peninsula, France, Switzerland, Turkey, Greece, the United Kingdom and North America. Here, we provide molecular evidence regarding the introduction and origin of P. siculus in six new populations outside its native range: Romania (Bucharest and Alba Iulia), inland Croatia (Zagreb and Karlovac), Italy (Lampedusa Island) and Azerbaijan (Baku). Phylogenetic analysis suggests that the Alba Iulia (Romania) population originated fr...

Research paper thumbnail of Perception of visitors regarding the wildlife inhabiting an archaeological site

Cultural heritage sites are often located within biodiversity hotspots, which may induce human-wi... more Cultural heritage sites are often located within biodiversity hotspots, which may induce human-wildlife conflicts despite their effectiveness in attracting tourists. Mitigating these conflicts requires targeted conservation and education measures based on a solid understanding of how visitors perceive wildlife. We assessed visitors' perception of the major wildlife groups (i.e., amphibians, reptiles, water birds) that were detectable during visiting hours, within an archaeological site overlapping with a biodiversity hotspot in southeastern Romania. We explored whether age, gender, education, nationality, and awareness (i.e., prompted by guided tours, previous visits, or protection level of the area) influenced visitors' perception towards the different wildlife groups. Visitors were disturbed or felt repulsion mostly towards the less charismatic wildlife groups: snakes, frogs, and toads; the perception was significantly explained by gender, nationality and awareness. We recommend the site to be used to promote education regarding wildlife conservation, to improve visiting experience and protect less charismatic species.

Research paper thumbnail of A case of color aberration in a fire salamander (Salamandra salamandra) larva

Herpetozoa, 2020

Color aberrations in salamanders are caused by defective chromatophores or by disrupted synthesis... more Color aberrations in salamanders are caused by defective chromatophores or by disrupted synthesis of the pigments, and have been previously reported in Europe. In this paper we report the first case of leucism in a fire salamander larva from a cave-dwelling population in Romania. The leucistic larva was larger and heavier compared to the other larvae from the same breeding habitat.

Research paper thumbnail of A case of color aberration in a fire salamander (Salamandra salamandra) larva

Herpetozoa, 2020

Color aberrations in salamanders are caused by defective chromatophores or by disrupted synthesis... more Color aberrations in salamanders are caused by defective chromatophores or by disrupted synthesis of the pigments, and have been previously reported in Europe. In this paper we report the first case of leucism in a fire salamander larva from a cave-dwelling population in Romania. The leucistic larva was larger and heavier compared to the other larvae from the same breeding habitat.

Research paper thumbnail of Intestinal Permeability and Depression in Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Journal of Clinical Medicine

Depression is a global health problem that requires an early and accurate diagnosis to ensure qui... more Depression is a global health problem that requires an early and accurate diagnosis to ensure quick access to appropriate treatment. Among multiple psychopathological paths, recent attention has focused on analysing the brain–gut–microbiota axis. The intestinal barrier plays a key role, and dysfunctions occurring at this level have implications for mental health. The aim of the present study was to investigate the role of intestinal permeability biomarkers, i.e., calprotectin, zonulin, lipopolysaccharide-binding protein (LBP) and intestinal fatty acid-binding protein (I-FAB), in relation to depression in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). This is the first study of this kind taking place in Romania, Eastern Europe, with an emphasis on patients with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. The correlations identified between depression and calprotectin and depression and LBP have the potential to shed light on the process of rapid diagnosis of depression with the help of ...

Research paper thumbnail of Five-Year Retrospective Study of Uterine STUMP and Leiomyosarcoma

Clinics and Practice

Taking into account the unpredictable evolution of uterine STUMP and leiomyosarcomas, there are n... more Taking into account the unpredictable evolution of uterine STUMP and leiomyosarcomas, there are no clearly established therapeutic protocols to date, the only certified treatment being total hysterectomy. We performed a 5-year retrospective study including cases of malignant tumors and those with uncertain malignant potential originating in the smooth muscle tissue of the uterine body. The clinical data, pathological aspects, and the immunohistochemical results were statistically analyzed using SPSS Statistics Version 26. The main associations of the p53 gene were identified with age, atypia, and the occurrence of metastases. The average number of CD8+ T cells correlated with the hormonal status of the patients, the presence of diabetes, and alteration of thyroid function, but also with the severity of the atypia. The therapeutic method was represented by total hysterectomy, and 30% of the patients with leiomyosarcoma also benefited from adjuvant chemotherapy. The average period unt...

Research paper thumbnail of Re-connecting Communities in Biodiverse Places to their Biological Heritage: The case of iguanas on Grand Cayman

Biodiversity Information Science and Standards, Sep 7, 2022

Research paper thumbnail of Unravelling the origin of the common wall lizards (Podarcis muralis) in outh-eastern Europe using mitochondrial evidence

Biodiversity Data Journal

The origin of the common wall lizards (Podarcis muralis) populations in south-eastern Europe (nam... more The origin of the common wall lizards (Podarcis muralis) populations in south-eastern Europe (namely in Bulgaria and Romania), representing the north-eastern range border of this species, was addressed using mitochondrial DNA. We compared cytochrome b sequences from Bulgaria and Romania with those from the contiguous range in Central Europe that are available from previous studies. We recorded five main haplogroups in Bulgaria and Romania, belonging to the Central Balkan clade. However, haplogroup III was recorded in more localities than previously found. Additionally, signs of haplotype admixture were identified in several populations along the Danube River. The presence of the Southern Alps haplotype in one population from Otopeni, Bucharest (Romania) and its close phylogenetic relationships to north Italy populations suggests human-mediated introductions of this wall lizard clade in Romania. Our results confirm that P. muralis can have non-native lineages and admixture through ac...

Research paper thumbnail of CMV and HIV Coinfection in Women from a Region in Eastern Europe

Journal of Personalized Medicine, Oct 25, 2023

Research paper thumbnail of Calprotectin, Biomarker of Depression in Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease?

Medicina

Background and Objectives: Calprotectin is a marker for intestinal inflammation. Recent research ... more Background and Objectives: Calprotectin is a marker for intestinal inflammation. Recent research suggests a link between inflammation and depression. This study assessed the association between the levels of calprotectin in patients from South-Eastern Europe and the severity of depression, anxiety, and quality of life. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study included 30 confirmed patients with Crohn’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC) who were assessed using clinical interviews for determining the severities of mental disorders (i.e., depression severity—PHQ-9, anxiety—GAD-7) and the quality of life (EQ-5D). Stool samples were collected from all participants for measuring their levels of calprotectin. Results: The level of calprotectin is correlated with PHQ-9 (ρ = 0.416, p = 0.022) and EQ-5D (ρ = −0.304, p = 0.033) but not with GAD 7 (ρ = 0.059, p = 0.379). Calprotectin levels in patients with mild, moderate, and moderately severe depression were significantly high...

Research paper thumbnail of The Role of Pathogenesis Associated with the Tumor Microclimate in the Differential Diagnosis of Uterine Myocytic Tumors

Journal of Clinical Medicine

Myocytic tumors of the uterus present vast morphological heterogeneity, which makes differential ... more Myocytic tumors of the uterus present vast morphological heterogeneity, which makes differential diagnosis between the different entities necessary. This study aims to enrich the existing data and highlight new potential therapeutic targets regarding aspects related to the pathogenic process and the tumor microenvironment in order to improve the quality of life of women. We performed a 5-year retrospective study, including particular cases of uterine myocyte tumors. Immunohistochemical analyses of pathogenic pathways (p53, RB1, and PTEN) and tumor microclimate using markers (CD8, PD-L1, and CD105), as well as genetic testing of the PTEN gene, were performed. The data were statistically analyzed using the appropriate parameters. In cases of atypical leiomyoma, a significant association was observed between PTEN deletion and an increased number of PD-L1+ T lymphocytes. For malignant lesions and STUMP, PTEN deletion was associated with the advanced disease stage. Advanced cases were al...

Research paper thumbnail of Food and light availability induce plastic responses in fire salamander larvae from contrasting environments

Research paper thumbnail of Nesting ecology and confirmed breeding of the invasive pond slider Trachemys scripta in an urban environment, Romania

European journal of wildlife research, May 27, 2024

The pond slider (Trachemys scripta) is a major invasive species in freshwater habitats across the... more The pond slider (Trachemys scripta) is a major invasive species in freshwater habitats across the world. For decades, the main cause of individuals' occurrences in the wild was the illegal release of pet animals. Recently, as an important component of their management, there has been an increasing focus on their ability to successfully reproduce in the invaded regions. In Romania, the species is reported as widespread in urban wetland environments within major cities, but information about its nesting and potential breeding remains scarce or anecdotal. We surveyed a large population of pond sliders in an artificial urban wetland site in Constanţa, SE Romania, and described their nesting ecology and reproductive output. Although eggs from several nests failed to hatch or were predated, potentially limiting their reproductive success, sliders were found to breed successfully at this site, with 18.6% viable hatchlings recorded. Our study could serve as a baseline for additional targeted surveys and to inform decision-making for successfully managing this invasive species. Although the importation, trading, and breeding of this species are prohibited by EU legislation, active and effective management is now required to address the successful reproduction and further potential spread of T. scripta.

Research paper thumbnail of Perception of visitors regarding the wildlife inhabiting an archaeological site

Human Dimensions of Wildlife, 2019

Cultural heritage sites are often located within biodiversity hotspots, which may induce human-wi... more Cultural heritage sites are often located within biodiversity hotspots, which may induce human-wildlife conflicts despite their effectiveness in attracting tourists. Mitigating these conflicts requires targeted conservation and education measures based on a solid understanding of how visitors perceive wildlife. We assessed visitors' perception of the major wildlife groups (i.e., amphibians, reptiles, water birds) that were detectable during visiting hours, within an archaeological site overlapping with a biodiversity hotspot in southeastern Romania. We explored whether age, gender, education, nationality, and awareness (i.e., prompted by guided tours, previous visits, or protection level of the area) influenced visitors' perception towards the different wildlife groups. Visitors were disturbed or felt repulsion mostly towards the less charismatic wildlife groups: snakes, frogs, and toads; the perception was significantly explained by gender, nationality and awareness. We recommend the site to be used to promote education regarding wildlife conservation, to improve visiting experience and protect less charismatic species.

Research paper thumbnail of Molecular analysis of recently introduced populations of the Italian wall lizard (Podarcis siculus)

Acta Herpetologica

In recent decades, many reptile species have been introduced outside their native ranges, either ... more In recent decades, many reptile species have been introduced outside their native ranges, either accidentally through the transportation of goods and materials (e.g., plants, construction materials), but also intentionally through the pet trade. As a paradigmatic example, the Italian wall lizard, Podarcis siculus, native to the Italian Peninsula, Sicily and the north Adriatic coast, has been introduced in several nearby islands since historical times (Corsica, Sardinia, Menorca). Besides these regions, scattered populations were later reported from the Iberian Peninsula, France, Switzerland, Turkey, Greece, the United Kingdom and North America. Here, we provide molecular evidence regarding the introduction and origin of P. siculus in six new populations outside its native range: Romania (Bucharest and Alba Iulia), inland Croatia (Zagreb and Karlovac), Italy (Lampedusa Island) and Azerbaijan (Baku). Phylogenetic analysis suggests that the Alba Iulia (Romania) population originated fr...

Research paper thumbnail of Perception of visitors regarding the wildlife inhabiting an archaeological site

Cultural heritage sites are often located within biodiversity hotspots, which may induce human-wi... more Cultural heritage sites are often located within biodiversity hotspots, which may induce human-wildlife conflicts despite their effectiveness in attracting tourists. Mitigating these conflicts requires targeted conservation and education measures based on a solid understanding of how visitors perceive wildlife. We assessed visitors' perception of the major wildlife groups (i.e., amphibians, reptiles, water birds) that were detectable during visiting hours, within an archaeological site overlapping with a biodiversity hotspot in southeastern Romania. We explored whether age, gender, education, nationality, and awareness (i.e., prompted by guided tours, previous visits, or protection level of the area) influenced visitors' perception towards the different wildlife groups. Visitors were disturbed or felt repulsion mostly towards the less charismatic wildlife groups: snakes, frogs, and toads; the perception was significantly explained by gender, nationality and awareness. We recommend the site to be used to promote education regarding wildlife conservation, to improve visiting experience and protect less charismatic species.

Research paper thumbnail of A case of color aberration in a fire salamander (Salamandra salamandra) larva

Herpetozoa, 2020

Color aberrations in salamanders are caused by defective chromatophores or by disrupted synthesis... more Color aberrations in salamanders are caused by defective chromatophores or by disrupted synthesis of the pigments, and have been previously reported in Europe. In this paper we report the first case of leucism in a fire salamander larva from a cave-dwelling population in Romania. The leucistic larva was larger and heavier compared to the other larvae from the same breeding habitat.

Research paper thumbnail of A case of color aberration in a fire salamander (Salamandra salamandra) larva

Herpetozoa, 2020

Color aberrations in salamanders are caused by defective chromatophores or by disrupted synthesis... more Color aberrations in salamanders are caused by defective chromatophores or by disrupted synthesis of the pigments, and have been previously reported in Europe. In this paper we report the first case of leucism in a fire salamander larva from a cave-dwelling population in Romania. The leucistic larva was larger and heavier compared to the other larvae from the same breeding habitat.

Research paper thumbnail of Intestinal Permeability and Depression in Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Journal of Clinical Medicine

Depression is a global health problem that requires an early and accurate diagnosis to ensure qui... more Depression is a global health problem that requires an early and accurate diagnosis to ensure quick access to appropriate treatment. Among multiple psychopathological paths, recent attention has focused on analysing the brain–gut–microbiota axis. The intestinal barrier plays a key role, and dysfunctions occurring at this level have implications for mental health. The aim of the present study was to investigate the role of intestinal permeability biomarkers, i.e., calprotectin, zonulin, lipopolysaccharide-binding protein (LBP) and intestinal fatty acid-binding protein (I-FAB), in relation to depression in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). This is the first study of this kind taking place in Romania, Eastern Europe, with an emphasis on patients with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. The correlations identified between depression and calprotectin and depression and LBP have the potential to shed light on the process of rapid diagnosis of depression with the help of ...

Research paper thumbnail of Five-Year Retrospective Study of Uterine STUMP and Leiomyosarcoma

Clinics and Practice

Taking into account the unpredictable evolution of uterine STUMP and leiomyosarcomas, there are n... more Taking into account the unpredictable evolution of uterine STUMP and leiomyosarcomas, there are no clearly established therapeutic protocols to date, the only certified treatment being total hysterectomy. We performed a 5-year retrospective study including cases of malignant tumors and those with uncertain malignant potential originating in the smooth muscle tissue of the uterine body. The clinical data, pathological aspects, and the immunohistochemical results were statistically analyzed using SPSS Statistics Version 26. The main associations of the p53 gene were identified with age, atypia, and the occurrence of metastases. The average number of CD8+ T cells correlated with the hormonal status of the patients, the presence of diabetes, and alteration of thyroid function, but also with the severity of the atypia. The therapeutic method was represented by total hysterectomy, and 30% of the patients with leiomyosarcoma also benefited from adjuvant chemotherapy. The average period unt...

Research paper thumbnail of Re-connecting Communities in Biodiverse Places to their Biological Heritage: The case of iguanas on Grand Cayman

Biodiversity Information Science and Standards, Sep 7, 2022

Research paper thumbnail of Unravelling the origin of the common wall lizards (Podarcis muralis) in outh-eastern Europe using mitochondrial evidence

Biodiversity Data Journal

The origin of the common wall lizards (Podarcis muralis) populations in south-eastern Europe (nam... more The origin of the common wall lizards (Podarcis muralis) populations in south-eastern Europe (namely in Bulgaria and Romania), representing the north-eastern range border of this species, was addressed using mitochondrial DNA. We compared cytochrome b sequences from Bulgaria and Romania with those from the contiguous range in Central Europe that are available from previous studies. We recorded five main haplogroups in Bulgaria and Romania, belonging to the Central Balkan clade. However, haplogroup III was recorded in more localities than previously found. Additionally, signs of haplotype admixture were identified in several populations along the Danube River. The presence of the Southern Alps haplotype in one population from Otopeni, Bucharest (Romania) and its close phylogenetic relationships to north Italy populations suggests human-mediated introductions of this wall lizard clade in Romania. Our results confirm that P. muralis can have non-native lineages and admixture through ac...