bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Glymphatic Dysfunction in Patients with Traumatic Brain Injury Shown by Diffusion Tensor Image Analysis Along the Perivascular Space
Authors: Bian Yitong , Chen Miaomiao , Shang Suhang , Wang Run , Jin Chao , Li Hua , Li Xianjun , Yang Jian
Published: November 2022

Background: glymphatic system has been identified as a pathway in the brain which plays a cential role in brain waste metabolism and immune regulation. The diffusion tensor imaging analysis along the perivascular space (DTI-ALPS) method provides an opportunity for the noninvasive approach of the glymphatic system in patients with traumatic brain injury(TBI). This study aimed to investigate the changes of glymphatic function in TBI and its related factors, and to explore the relationship with long-term cognitive outcomes.
Methods: a total of 35 patients with TBI and 50 healthy controls(HCs) were retrospectively included. The clinical characteristics were recorded, including age, sex, glasgow coma scale (GCS), injury reason and type of injury. All participants underwent DTI using the 3.0 T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanner and the ALPS index was calculated. The mini-mental state examination (MMSE) of patients with TBI were followed up by telephone at 6 months. The difference of ALPS index between patients with TBI and HCs was evaluated by independent sample T test. The factors associated with the ALPS index were analysed using linear regression. In addition, the correlation between the ALPS index and MMSE were evaluated in TBI group by pearson analysis.
Results: there were no signiﬁcant diﬀerences in age and sex ratio between patients with TBI and HCs.The ALPS index was statistically different between patients with TBI and HCs (1.343±0.113 vs. 1.432±0.093, p=0.00). In TBI group, GCS (β = 0.013, p = 0.030) was the only factor associated with the ALPS index on linear regression analysis. In addition, the ALPS index in patients with TBI was signiﬁcantly positive correlated with MMSE (r = 0.449, p = 0.007).
Conclusions: we found that DTI-ALPS index was reduced in patients with TBI, indicating glymphatic system dysfunction. Among patients with TBI, the GCS of trauma can affect the glymphatic system, and glymphatic dysfunction was correlated with cognitive impairment. Thus, these ﬁndings can explain the effects of TBI on increased risk of developing dementia and highlight the importance of TBI treatment.
Preparation, characterization, and photocatalytic properties of micro- spherical MoS2
Authors: An Zhongfen , Liu Tong , Wang Xiangyu , Zhang Juhui , Zhang Lingcui , Xu Yue , Shen Yan , Zhao Jinbo , Shi Feng
Published: November 2022

Herein, MoS2 microspheres with a uniform particle size and good crystallinity were prepared by hydrothermal synthesis at 200°C for 24 h. XRD, TEM, and XPS analysis showed that the 2H-MoS2 microspheres were prepared and contained abundant catalytic active sites. Using rhodamine B and methylene blue as simulated environmental pollutants, the photocatalytic activity of MoS2 was analyzed by degrading these organic dyes. Under visible light irradiation, the degradation rate of rhodamine B reached 95% and that of methylene blue reached 98%. During the photocatalytic reaction, the formation of electron-hole pairs in MoS2 was promoted, and strongly-oxidizing hydroxyl radicals (▪OH) were formed by a series of reactions, which degraded the organic substances.
Modified anterior cervical corpectomy fusion in the treatment of four-level cervical spondylotic myelopathy: a retrospective study with 5-year follow-up
Authors: Feng Hao , Bai Rui-fei , Fu Chao-hua , li Wei , Yi Jun-fei , Yang Jian-jie
Published: November 2022

Objective: To investigate the outcome of modified anterior cervical corpectomy and fusion(mACCF) without corpectomy C4 or C5 vertebral body in the treatment of four-level cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM).
Methods: 34 consecutive patients suffered from 4 level cervical spondylotic myelopathy were definitely diagnosed from July 2013 to June 2017. All 34 patients were treated by mACCF and followed up at least 5 years. Of these 34 patients, the cervical cord compression was observed at disc levels C2–C6 with/without spinal stenosis in 15 patients, which were treated with corpectomy of C3 and C5 vertebrae and preservation of C4 vertebrae; the cervical cord compression was observed at disc levels C3–C7 with/without spinal stenosis in 19 patients. and were treated with corpectomy of C4 and C6 vertebrae and preservation of C5 vertebrae. Then the operation time, blood loss, bone graft fusion rate at the last follow-up, the improvement rate of JOA score and the cervical lordosis were collected for comparison.
Results: all 34 patients are followed-up from 61 to 84 months, the mean follow-up time is 66.18±11.79 months; The mean operation time was 148.97±31.51min(range,115-192min), The average blood loss was 742.28±87.89ml(range,580-1080ml). All of 34 cases got bony union without complications such as subsidence of titanium mesh cage, displacement of plate or screw was found at last follow-up. The JOA score was (12.46±2.83) before the operation, got improvement to (15.28±2.17), (15.36±2.25) and (16.17±1.83) after operation 3 months,6months and at the last follow-up respectively. The mean improvement rate was 58.8%(3 months after operation), 61.8%(6 months after operation), and 62.9%(the last follow-up);The average cervical lordosis changed from（9.19±3.11）mm before the operation to（12.79±4.15）mm 3 months after operation and（13.11±3.19）mm at last follow-up; Postoperative complications including temporary hoarseness (2 patients), and C5 nerve root palsy (3patients), and improved after 2-week conservative treatments and had resolved completely at the 6-week follow up.
Conclusions: This study demonstrated modified anterior cervical corpectomy and fusion preservation C4 or C5 vertebral body can achieve satisfactory outcome during short and medium-term follow-up in the treatment of 4-level CSM. In this series, neither signifcant subsidence of titanium mesh cage nor signifcant loss of cervical lordosis correction was seen, postoperative lateral radiograph of the cervical spine at last follow-up showing obtaintion of solid fusion.
Secondary Structure of Amorphous Carbon Formed on the Nitrogen-implanted Wc-co Tools During Wood-based Panels Machining
Authors: WILKOWSKI J. , BARLAK M. , KONARSKI P. , KENTSCH U.
Published: November 2022

This paper presents the phenomenon of inducing a secondary structure of amorphous carbon on the nitrogen-implanted surface of WC-Co cutting tools during particleboard machining. Nitrogen ion implantation was performed for two types of WC-Co tools (indexable knives for milling heads and circular saw blades). The following parameters of the ion implantation process were used: fluencies 5e17 cm− 2, ion energy 50 keV. The three layers particleboard with thickness of 18 mm and density 648 kg/m3 was subjected to tool life tests. Workpieces were machined on the woodworking center CNC Busellato Jet 130. During machining, constant cutting parameters were maintained. TEM and SIMS analyzes showed the formation of amorphous carbon secondary structure on the implanted surfaces of WC-Co tools. The thickness of the obtained secondary structure was more than twice greater after sawing than after milling. Formed secondary structure contributed to extension of tool life during particleboard machining.
Development and validation of a deep learning and radiomics combined model for differentiating complicated from uncomplicated acute appendicitis
Authors: Liang Dan , Fan Yaheng , Zeng Yinghou , Zhou Hui , Zhou Hong , Li Guangming , Liang Yingying , Zhong Zhangnan , Chen Dandan , Chen Amei , Huang Bingsheng , Wei Xinhua
Published: November 2022

Background
Nonoperative management (NOM) of uncomplicated acute appendicitis (AA) has been shown to be feasible; however, the pretreatment prediction of complicated/uncomplicated AA remains challenging. We developed a deep learning and radiomics combined model to differentiate complicated from uncomplicated AA.
Methods
This retrospective multicenter study included 1165 adult AA patients (training cohort, 700 patients; validation cohort, 465 patients) with available abdominal pelvic CT images. The reference standard for complicated/uncomplicated AA was surgery and pathology records. We developed our combined model with CatBoost based on the selected clinical characteristics, CT visual features, deep learning features, and radiomics features. We externally validated our combined model and compared it with the conventional combined model, the deep learning radiomics (DLR) model, and the radiologist’s visual diagnosis using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis.
Results
In the training cohort, the area under the ROC curve (AUC) of our combined model in distinguishing complicated from uncomplicated AA was 0.816 (95% CI: 0.785–0.844). In the validation cohort, our combined model showed robust performance across the three centers, with AUCs of 0.836 (95% CI: 0.785–0.879), 0.793 (95% CI: 0.695–0.872), and 0.723 (95% CI: 0.632–0.802). In the total validation cohort, our combined model (AUC = 0.799) performed better than the conventional combined model, DLR model and radiologist’s visual diagnosis (AUC = 0.723, 0.755, and 0.679; all P < 0.05). Decision curve analysis showed that our combined model provided greater net benefit in predicting complicated AA than the other three models.
Conclusions
Our combined model allows the accurate differentiation of complicated and uncomplicated AA.
Examination of turbulent flow induced by particle sedimentation by RIM-PIV
Authors: HARADA EIJI , TAZAKI TAKUMI , GOTOH HITOSHI
Published: November 2022

The turbulent flow induced by particles fed into water was measured using refractive index matched-particle image velocimetry (RIM-PIV). The development process of turbulent flow was examined based on PIV on a two-dimensional (2-D) plane. With respect to the measurement results of physical quantities related to the fluctuation velocity, a mottled distribution indicating a particle-scale spatial variation related to the random behavior of each particle spreads over the submerged particle area in the early stage of particle feeding. After the particle feeding was completed and energy supply ceased, the distribution gradually transitioned to a large mottled spatial distribution, showing the organized behavior of the particle cluster. Furthermore, the importance of the measurement in the depth direction and the evaluation of the interaction force between the particles and fluid were shown by examining the turbulent energy budget. In the final part of the development process of the oval circulating flow by feeding particles and its structure, the existence of a shear layer encircling the low-pressure region near the center of the circulating flow was detected.
EFR3A: a new raft domain organizing protein?
Authors: Trybus Magdalena , Hryniewicz-Jankowska Anita , Wójtowicz Karolina , Trombik Tomasz , Czogalla Aleksander , Sikorski Aleksander F.
Published: November 2022

Membrane rafts play a crucial role in the regulation of many important biological processes. Our data suggest that specific interactions of flotillins with MPP1 are responsible for membrane raft domain organization and regulation in erythroid cells. Interaction of the flotillin-based protein network with specific membrane components underlies the mechanism of raft-domain formation and regulation, including in cells with low expression of MPP1. We sought to identify other flotillin partners via the immobilized recombinant flotillin-2-based affinity approach and MS technique. Thereby EFR3A was identified as a candidate protein which interacts with flotillin-2. This was further confirmed via immunoblotting using anti-EFR3A antibody and via co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP). Moreover, this newly discovered interaction was demonstrated via overlay assay using recombinant EFR3A and flotillin-2. EFR3A is a stable component of the detergentresistant membrane (DRM) fraction of HeLa cells, and its presence was sensitive to removal of cholesterol. While silencing the EFR3A gene, we observed decreased order of the plasma membrane of living cells or giant plasma membrane vesicles (GPMVs) derived from KnD cells and altered mobility of the raft probe, as indicated via fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy and spot-variation fluorescence correlation spectroscopy. Moreover, silencing of EFR3A expression was found to disturb epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and phospholipase C gamma (PLCγ) phosphorylation and affect EGF-dependent cytosolic Ca2+ concentration. Altogether, our results suggest hitherto unreported flotillin-2-EFR3A interaction, which appears to be responsible for membrane raft organization and regulation. This implies participation of this interaction in the regulation of multiple cellular processes, including those connected with cell signaling.
Association between clinical use of lansoprazole and the risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus: A pharmacoepidemiological cohort study
Authors: Lin Ming-Hsun , Wu Wen‐Tung , Chen Yong-Chen , Lin Tsung-Kun , Chou Yu‐Ching , Sun Chien-An
Published: November 2022

Background
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are common and widely used for gastrointestinal-related disorders. Lansoprazole is one of PPIs with potential benefits of anti-inflammation, reduced oxidative stress, and anti-diabetes. The aims of this study are to determine whether lansoprazole imparts differential risk of type 2 diabetes as compared with other PPIs.
Methods
A population-based retrospective cohort study was conducted using the National Health Insurance Research Database in Taiwan. Patients who received lansoprazole more than 90 days and without records of use of other PPIs between January 1, 2000 and December 31, 2005 (the exposure period) were considered as the exposed cohort (n = 1,668). In comparison, patients who received other PPIs more than 90 days and without use of lansoprazole in the exposure period were treated as the unexposed cohort (n = 3,336).The primary outcome was the new-onset of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The association between lansoprazole use and the risk of T2DM was determined by hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) derived from multivariable Cox proportional hazards models.
Results
The lansoprazole cohort showed a significantly reduced risk of T2DM with an adjusted HR of 0.65 (95% CI, 0.56–0.76). Interestingly, the inverse association between use of lansoprazole and risk of T2DM was observed in both men and women and in various age groups.
Conclusion
Our findings suggest that lansoprazole was associated with a reduced risk of T2DM compared with other PPIs. Further studies are needed to determine the clinical implications of the present study.
Glutatyon S-transferaz: Koyun Dalak Dokusundan Saflaştırılması ve Karakterizasyonu
Authors: YÜKSEL Fatih , TEMEL Yusuf
Published: November 2022

Bu çalışmada, hücre içi majör antioksidan sistem olan glutatyon antioksidan sisteminin önemli enzimlerinden glutatyon S-transferaz (GST; EC 2.5.1.18) sitozolik enzimi koyun dalak dokusundan homojenat hazırlanması, salting out (amonyum sülfat tuzu ile çöktürme yöntemi) ve afinite kromatografisi (glutatyon-agaroz) olmak üzere üç adımda 3.67 EÜ mg-1 protein değeri (spesifik aktivite) ve %3.73 verim ile 122.3 kat saflaştırıldı. Koyun dalak dokusundan saflaştırılan GST enziminin saflık derecesini belirlemek ve doğal alt birim molekül kütlelerinin tespitinde sodyum dodesil sülfat poliakrilamid jel elektroforez (SDS-PAGE) metodu kullanıldı. Koyun dalak dokusu GST enziminin alt birimlerine ait molekül kütlesi yaklaşık olarak 26.36 kDa hesaplandı. Koyun dalak dokusundan saflaştırılan GST enziminin karakterizasyonu için gerçekleştirilen çalışmalarda; optimum pH, K-fosfat tamponu pH=8.0, optimum aktivite gösterdiği iyonik şiddet, K-fosfat tampon çözeltisi 1.0 M, stabil pH, K-fosfat tampon çözeltisi pH = 7.0 ve optimum sıcaklığı 60 oC olarak bulundu. Koyun dalak dokusundan saflaştırılan GST enzimine ait KM ve Vmax değerlerini belirlemek için yapılan kinetik çalışmalarda Lineweaver-Burk grafiklerinden yararlanıldı. Enzimin substratları olan indirgenmiş glutatyon (GSH) ve 1-kloro-2,4-dinitrobenzen (CDNB) için yürütülen kinetik çalışmalarda; GSH için KM değeri 0.629 mM, Vmax değeri 0.056 EÜ mL-1; CDNB için KM değeri 0.321 mM, Vmax değeri 0.129 EÜ mL-1 olarak belirlendi.
Design and Analysis of All-Terrain Differential-Driven Caterpillar-Wheeled Based Unmanned Fire Extinguisher Robot
Authors: Pandey Anish , Singh Sujeet , Kumar Price , Pothal Lalit Kumar , Mohanty Rajiva Lochan
Published: November 2022

The usage of wheeled robots in service robots such as planetary exploration robots, pick-and-place robots, cleaning robots, surveillance robots, etc., is continuously increasing day by day. The primary purpose of these service robots is to reduce human resources and minimize human life risk in a hazardous environment. Therefore, in this article, the authors purpose and design the all-terrain differential-driven caterpillar-wheeled based unmanned Fire Extinguisher Robot (FER), which can detect and monitor the fire by using gas (smoke) sensor and temperature sensor. Also, it can extinguish the fire by spreading the fire extinguisher gas. The proposed unmanned FER has been divided into the two assembled units, one unit drives the FER, and another unit is for spreading the fire extinguisher gas through the nozzle of the cylinder. The driving unit of unmanned FER consists of six DC geared motors, two dual DC motor drivers, caterpillar driving wheels, Arduino MEGA microcontroller, Bluetooth module, gas sensor, temperature sensor, and rechargeable lithium-polymer (LiPo) battery. Next, the one DC motor connected with a motor driver controls the fire extinguisher gas cylinder's open and close valve through a Bluetooth signal from an android phone. The specially designed chassis and caterpillar driving wheel arrangement help the FER to travel in any terrain, including stair climbing. Real-time experimental tests have been carried out on the designed unmanned FER during the fire extinguishing process to prove the effectiveness of the developed FER.
The Impact of Environmental Knowledge on Recycling Intention: The Mediating Role of Perceived Behavioural Control
Authors: Ali Ahmed Hussein , El Rouby Habiba Sherif , Barakat Mahmoud Ramadan
Published: November 2022

Currently, sustainability goals are the prior aim to be achieved by any organization as the united nation called to apply sustainability practices to be achieved by 2030. Recycling is one of the main extracted strategies from SDG 12 that countries try to increase and rely on landfills. Therefore, this study aims to measure the impact of environmental knowledge (EK) on recycling intention (RI); in addition, it tries to explore the mediation role of Internal perceived behavioural control (IPBC) and External perceived behavioural control (EPBC)). The research used a quantitative approach through distributing an online questionnaire to people in Egypt in order to examine the research variables. Number of 416 valid responses were analyzed using SPSS through conducting Bootstrapping method to analyzed the mediation role. The findings showed that environmental knowledge has a direct impact on recycling intention; moreover, the mediation role of Internal perceived behavioural control and External perceived behavioural control is rejected. This proves that increasing the environmental knowledge will enhance the behaviours of the societies. Furthermore, will grab the societies’ attention to apply the sustainability practices in the future. Future studies need to consider recycling activities, especially in developing countries, and to improve the awareness and behaviour levels.
The Effect of Different Sowing Times on Corn Silk Tea
Authors: Konuşkan Ömer , Kaya Durmuş Alpaslan
Published: November 2022

Corn silks, a by-product of corn, are an important herb used traditionally by many countries to treat many diseases. They are also used as traditional medicine in many parts of the world because of corn silks were used as a source of phenolic component and beverages (diuretic and antiseptic) all over the World. This study aim is determination of proper using method the corn silk image and FTIR at different sowing time of corn. The result of this study show that properties of raw, lyophilized products and evaporated materials are not changed at different sowing time. Also probably, to lyophilized products can be use food additive and prepare tea again with adding water.
Comparison of Surface Processes Applied to Preserve the Hydrophilic Property of Implants
Authors: Öztoprak Kaan , Öztoprak Ece
Published: November 2022

Today, studies are carried out on many surface modification techniques to improve the surface properties of dental implants. The common goal of all these studies is to increase cell retention on the implant surface and to perform implantation with high biomechanical properties and biocompatibility. Anodized implants are hydrophilic due to their surface properties. The hydrophilic nature of the implant surface has been found to be beneficial for osseointegration in many studies. After the implant surface anodization process, the hydrophilicity on the surface is at the highest level and the hydrophilic feature on the surface decreases as it comes into contact with air. Many commercially hydrophilic implants lose their hydrophilic properties early in their shelf life. Researchers are in search of longer preservation of hydrophilic properties in implants. In our study, we aimed to preserve the hydrophilic feature on the titanium surface for a longer time by forming a thin layer of NaCl on the surface by cleaning the Ti Gr4 1cm3 plate pieces immediately after the micro-arc oxidation process and dipping them into isotonic NaCl solution. The study was done in 5 groups. In the first group, titanium was cleaned after the micro-arc oxidation (MAO) process and the water contact angle (WCA) on the surface was measured. The remaining 4 groups were divided as MAO applied and 15 days passed, MAO + NaCl applied and 15 days passed, MAO applied and 30 days passed, MAO + NaCl applied and 30 days passed. Water contact angle measurements were made for all groups and their hydrophilic properties were compared. In our experiment, the highest WCA was found in the parts measured immediately after anodization in the first group. Titanium surfaces coated with NaCl showed 14% lower WCA after anodization compared to untreated titanium after 15 days. In the 30-day groups, 20% lower WCA was found in the titanium treated with NaCl compared to the untreated ones. NaCl treatment on the hydrophilic surface of titanium helped to preserve its hydrophilic property over time. In this study, it was observed that the hydrophilic properties on the surface of the implants that were treated with NaCl for the first time on hydrophilic titanium were preserved for a longer period of time. We propose to increase the osseointegration quality by performing such applications on hydrophilic implants.
The Influence of Surfactants in Obtaining New Byproducts, for Agriculture Applications
Authors: Simion Demetra , Gaidău Carmen , Berechet Mariana Daniela , Stanca Maria , Alexe Cosmin , Păun Gabriela
Published: November 2022

The aim of the paper is to obtain new byproducts based on surfactants (gemini – polymethylene-α, ω-bis (N, N-dialkyl-N-deoxy-d-glucitolammonium iodides or bolaform – demecarium bromide) and protein hydrolysates (keratin and collagen) with micro and macro nutrients for applications in agriculture. A method was developed to include micro and macronutrients in keratin and collagen hydrolysates, in order to obtain new byproducts-bioemulsions (stable because of surfactants), with final goal of application as a new class of root fertilizers for cereals (e.g., corn). The newly obtained byproducts (bioemulsions based on surfactants) were characterized by: dynamic light scattering measurements, contact angle, optical microscopy and microbiological tests against fungal attack of Fusarium spp. and Botrytis cinerea. Better results were obtained for gemini surfactant based on sugar – polymethylene-α, ω-bis (N, N-dialkyl-N-deoxy-d-glucitolammonium iodides) due to the properties such as: biodegradability, nontoxicity and adherence to surfaces. The new fertilizer created in this research – bioemulsions based on surfactants, can support the general structure of the grains as well as the chlorophyll content, increasing the growth yield. The fertilizer is indicated for any type of crops and soils, with recommended use as additional fertilizer for plants (cereals) in the vegetation and growth phases, with a maximum need for nutrients.
Reduction of Residual Tannins Concentration Using Cerioporus squamosus Bio-Augmented Polymeric Carriers
Authors: Iordache Ovidiu , Moga Ioana-Corina , Tănăsescu Elena-Cornelia , Perdum Elena , Secăreanu Lucia , Lite Mihaela-Cristina , Săndulache Irina-Mariana , Troancă Elena-Laura
Published: November 2022

The oldest use of polyphenols in the leather industry is based on their ability to stabilize collagen in the skin against rotting. Leather tanning processes are among the most polluting industrial sources in terms of undesirable and toxic parameters (COD, BOD, content of tannic acids, fats, sulphureous residues, chloride, chromium, suspended solids etc.). Tannic acid is a naturally occurring phenolic compound and is widely used in the tanning processes, being one of the main pollutants in leather industry derived wastewaters. Current paper explored the ability of HDPE carrier, functionalized with Cerioporus squamosus microbial strain, to reduce the residual concentration of five natural tannins, widely used in the tanning processes in leather industry: Quebracho, Chestnut, Mimosa, Myrobalan and Gambier, in concentration of 1% in the tested solution. Bio-augmentation experiment of the HDPE structures were carried out in an experimental laboratory installation, and treatment of each aqueous solution, was carried out for 7 straight days, and percentage reduction of residual tannins was calculated at 3 and 7 days. Results highlighted varying degrees of reduction of the residual tannin concentration in the solutions, depending on the tannin tested, the best efficiency being achieved against Myrobalan tannin, with a maximum percentage reduction in residual concentration of 41% after 7 days, followed by Mimosa tannin (34%-7 days), Quebracho (28%-7 days), Chestnut (22%-7 days) and Gambier (9.30%-7 days).
Laser Finishing in the Decoration of Leather Products
Authors: Pervaia Nataliia , Borshchevska Natalia , Andreyeva Olga , Lypskyi Tymofii
Published: November 2022

Today, the use of laser finishing of leather products is becoming more popular than traditional methods. However, there is not much information on the effect of laser energy on the leather structure during finishing, so additional research is need. Crust leather produced by a new unified resource-saving technology with the use of polymer compounds at the stage of tanning and liquid finishing was used for research. The different leather samples were taken for research the laser effect. Leather samples with a thickness of 1.40-1.45 mm were subjected to laser engraving at a depth of laser ablation from 0.1 mm to 0.7 mm in steps of 0.1 mm. It was found that the structure of the dermis under the action of laser radiation has not undergone morphological changes: the samples preserved the natural histological structure, collagen bundles are not deformed, the layers are evenly spaced without increasing the density of the structure. There is some increase in the distances between the structural elements of the dermis. It was found in the area of direct action of the laser beam there are signs of welding of collagen fibers, but on the surface of the sample of leather were no found chemicals substance. The influence of laser finishing on the structure and physical-mechanical properties of leather for footwear and leather goods was determined. It was found that increasing the depth of ablation to 50-52% of the thickness of the leather adversely affects it`s physical and mechanical properties, thereby deteriorating the performance of footwear and leather goods. The results of complex research of the effect of laser radiation on the physical and mechanical properties of the leather for the shoes uppers and leather goods allowed to establish rational technological parameters of the laser finish. Such information expands the possibilities of introducing laser equipment into serial production in order to create a modern range of finished products due to the creative design of models and unification of products.
Technical and Hardware Implementation of a Modular TMS Prototype System by Using Data Modeling, Sensor Computing and Warning Systems
Authors: Sbirna Sebastian , Sbirna Simona
Published: November 2022

The great necessity of realizing appropriate monitoring of cooling and heating systems seems to be essential in the current context, as we approach the reality of interconnected smart cities and vehicles, which can regulate their energy consumption and, at the same time, maintain high standards on the equilibrium that they provide. This work outlines the essential technical considerations when modeling a working device prototype designed for monitoring of temperature inside vehicles and other areas. The main focus of this paper is to present and explain the algorithm that has been developed throughout three months of intensive prototyping of such a system. The scope of our final prototype includes an automatic alarm function for extreme cases, along with visual feedback in the form of messages on an LCD screen and color-coded LED signals. There is a specific focus regarding the collection and processing of accurate data for vehicles, with the consequence of releasing appropriate warnings to drivers or system owners. The main research focus is on explainability and reproducibility of our decisions behind the programming approach. Finally, we have demonstrated the means through which the mentioned solution is adaptable and cost-efficient, together with short considerations that would take the prototype into mass production.
Synergistic Efficacy of Eucalyptol with Acyclovir against HSV-2
Authors: Ay Emrah , Duran Nizami
Published: November 2022

The increasing drug resistance in herpes viruses in recent years brings with it new treatment approaches. In recent years, it has been tried to overcome drug resistance, especially with the use of herbal products in combination with existing drugs. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effectiveness of eucalyptol in combination with acyclovir. A Vero cell line was used for toxicity tests and viral culture isolation studies in the study. The non-toxic concentrations of eucalyptol and acyclovir were determined by the MTT method. Antiviral efficacy studies were performed within non-toxic concentrations. Antiviral activity was determined by calculating the IC50 values of the compounds against HSV-2. In addition, it was evaluated by the RT-PCR method. The 50% inhibitory concentration (IC50) and Fractional inhibitory concentration (FIC) index values determined during 24 hours and 48 hours of action showed that Eucalyptol exhibited a potent activity. This efficacy was found to be stronger when used in combination with acyclovir. These results show that the combination of Eucalyptol and acyclovir may be beneficial against resistant HSV infections. We suggest that the results of these studies, which are planned as in-vitro, be supported by in-vivo studies.
Footwear Industry Leather Cutting Issues and Recommendation of Wastage Minimization Research Innovative Techniques
Authors: Dhanapal Durairaj , Mundia Sitawala
Published: November 2022

Leather from different parts of the animal, its characteristics, and this has to be taken into account when using leather in several products. The main parts of the hide and skin such as the shoulder, butt, belly, and axillae are different properties in terms of strength, flexibility, and durability (Mesa et al., 2019). They consumed for many types of footwear such as shoes, boots, sandals, slippers, etc. Footwear is divided into many categories such as athletic shoes also known as sneakers, galoshes, high heels, and many others. The leather clicking operation is very important for making shoe uppers mostly cow leather. Buff, goat skins are used for upper making. This operation is required a high level of skill efficiency (Elamvazhuthi et al., 2009). Right now, African country's footwear industry is very faster developing based on leather sources This research already focused on the leather cutting section layout design, operation methods, time study, standard operating procedure, assorting, grading, nesting, machine maintenance, allocation sheet Stroke report, die cabinet, daily report techniques all are implemented and recommended to the African middle scale footwear sectors.
Protein Extracts from Fish Head as Natural Fertilizer for Corn Plants
Authors: Berechet Mariana Daniela , Simion Demetra , Stanca Maria , Alexe Cosmin Andrei
Published: November 2022

The amino acid composition in the hydrolysates of fish proves to be a most promising source of protein. Two extracts from fish by-products (P1, from the head and fins of sturgeon and P2, from the cartilage of sturgeon head and fins) were obtained as liquids that were dried at 40°C. Liquid extracts were characterized physico-chemically (dry matter 3.86% and 4.25%, protein content 1.44% and 3.25%), and particle size (247nm, 94% and 4148nm, 65% majority populations for P1 and P2) and zeta potential (-27.4mV and -15.8mV) were measured. The smaller particle size for the P1 extract led to its choice for treatments applied in the growth of corn seeds. Four samples of concentrations of 0.5%, 1%, and 1.5% and control concentrations were experimented, each on 25 corn seeds, observing the growth of plants over a period of 13 days. A 13% higher increase of the corn plants was obtained in the case of the sample treated with 1.5% fish protein extract, P1. Throughout the experiments, the P1 sample with 1.5% fish protein extract had higher increases than the control sample. These results suggest that extracts from the head by-products of sturgeon fish could be used in agriculture as a nutrient in the growth of corn plants.
Making Footwear Based on Circular Economy - REWEART
Authors: Pantazi-Bajenaru Mirela , Georgescu Mihai , Alexandrescu Laurentia , Gurau Dana
Published: November 2022

The REWEART project will help meet the objectives of the EU’s Environmental Policy. What is more, it will contribute to the implementation of EU commitments under UNFCCC Kyoto Protocol, EU GHG emission reduction commitments in 2020 under the Climate and Energy Package, Green Deal and Fashion Pact. Following the objectives of resource and energy reduction as well as waste cuts all along the product life cycle, the main ambition of REWEART project is to refer to natural ecosystems, which produces no waste, and uses only renewable resources (solar energy and water). REWEART project aims at generalising the use of proactive waste management at design stage and at anticipating and improving reactive management. The project offers us an exceptional opportunity to conceive a new business model and related services and tools, enabling, at design stage, the selection of the most suitable materials and processes to create a new footwear product 100% recycled, organic, as working hypothesis. A cost effectiveness evaluation has been made possible to make affordable new products available to the market, while a concurrent environmental impact analysis ensures that the new solutions are positive for the environment. The project results have been assessed against a set of performance yardsticks addressing environmental, social and economic impact. This paper presents the activities carried out within the LIFE REWEART project during its entire period of development.
Aspects Regarding the Physiological and Comfort Parameters in Shoes Made of Leather Substitutes
Authors: Secan Cristina , Cuc Sunhilde
Published: November 2022

The issue of replacing natural leather with leather substitutes is increasingly common in the leather goods industry. In this paper, it was addressed the issue of ensuring the physiological and comfort parameters when wearing leather substitute shoes. The aim of the paper is to analyze how the sanogenetic indicators influence the hygienic properties of footwear products starting from the porosity of the materials subjected to experimental determinations. Poromeric skin substitutes will be used, which allow the passage of water vapor and air. Both types of leather substitutes for shoe uppers and some types of textile materials for linings will be subjected to laboratory analysis, using the pycnometric method. In conclusion, the values obtained for porosity fall between 47 and 58%, limits also provided by the specialized literature. It is noted that the porosity values of leather substitutes are close to those of chrome-tanned leather, so as a result, the value of leather substitutes use will increase (they have sanogenetic properties similar to natural leather). Currently, leather substitutes are used more and more in the manufacture of footwear products, because they maintain a thermal transfer balance between the foot and the surrounding environment, favoring the elimination of moisture produced by the foot when wearing the footwear in the outdoor environment.
Low Carbon Footprint Composite Based on Chloroprene Rubber and Elastomer Waste
Authors: Georgescu Mihai , Sönmez Maria , Alexandrescu Laurenţia , Nițuică (Vilsan) Mihaela , Stelescu Maria Daniela , Gurău Dana , Drușan Denis-Andrei , Ciobanu Ana-Maria , Chelaru Ciprian
Published: November 2022

The aim of the paper consists in the treatment of post-consumer and technological waste of elastomers and plastomers, according to the 4R principle (reduction, reuse, recycling and recovery) by transforming them into raw materials with added value and integrating them into different industries. This will lead to the developing of new processing concepts regarding obtaining new biodegradable composite materials, with various waste contents (10-50 wt%). The composite is based on chloroprene rubber, and added post-consumer recycled rubber particles, with size of 45 mesh, eco-reinforcing material, and active fillers, plasticizers, vulcanizing agents, antioxidants. In order to enhance the compatibility and their level of interaction, the elastomer waste was finely ground (cryogenic mill) and functionalized with potassium oleate. Rubber waste acts as a filling material which leads to lower carbon footprint of the composite and lower mass. Tensile, tear strength, elasticity, hardness, abrasion resistance, melt flow index and morphological study (FT-IR) of those composites were examined in order to determine their viability in various application areas. The transformation of waste (cryogenically ground, and functionalized) into new products with added value will lead to remarkable improvements in the life cycle of raw materials and the sustainable use of this waste, contributing to increasing sustainability, improving eco-efficiency and economic efficiency and reducing the carbon footprint on the environment.
Benefits of Hydrogen-Rich Gas (HRG) on Biomass Combustion Performances
Authors: Lazaroiu Gheorghe , Mihaescu Lucian , Negreanu Gabriel-Paul , Pisa Ionel , Grigoriu Rodica Manuela , Jarcu Elena-Adriana
Published: November 2022

Due to accelerated globalization, climate change and the increased costs of classical fuels, the notion of biomass is growing in recent years. Harnessing fuels as well as biofuels or hydrogen-rich gas (HRG) helps in a sustainable and environmentally friendly development of the energy sector. Although biofuels cover a vast field in terms of calorific value, maintaining a certain level of humidity is a real problem in practice. Thus, the primary combustion is difficult, and the combustion plants and their performances are restricted. Ideally, the humidity is recommended to be a maximum of 30%. Hydrogen-rich gas (HRG) is obtained from electrolysis, without the need to separate the two gaseous elements H2 and O2. Stoichiometric combustion is performed with oxygen from the gaseous fuel, the rest at the level of excess air being completed from the oxidizing medium. The experiments are carried out on pilot installations from University Politehnica of Bucharest and the advantages of co-combustion of solid biofuels with hydrogen-rich gas are highlighted. As a result, you want to increase the speed and combustion and decrease the CO emission. The limits of mass participation of avian waste mixed with biomass for co-combustion will be studied, with the highlighting of the influence of humidity and calorific value.
Shaping the Range of Footwear in Different Materials According to a Person’s Psycho-Type
Authors: Leshchyshyn Maryna , Babych Antonina , Kernesh Victoria
Published: November 2022

The article is to highlight and substantiate the results of marketing research, determine human psycho-types regarding the design of shoes, materials, heel shape and toe, so it is possible to: improve the range of manufacturers, predict the use of modern classic leather and textile materials, for the production of products of this segment; improving its quality; increasing demand for footwear from Ukrainian manufacturers and the percentage of finished goods. Marketing research was conducted with the help of respondents of the shoe store brand “Kachorovska”, Kyiv (Ukraine), which helped to properly form the range of women’s shoes according to the psycho-type and temperament of the buyer. These data helped to create a system that allows you to properly and efficiently shape the range of shoes and thus fully satisfy the buyer and achieve the desired percentage of sales. The article considers the state of the domestic footwear market and presents the results of marketing research of consumer preferences taking into account the human psycho-type during the formation of the range of women’s shoes from different materials, and clarifies how its range meets the needs of the population. In this paper, a comparative analysis of the choice of shoe models of the appropriate human psycho-type for the formation of the range, which will reduce the number of unsold shoes at the end of the season. It was found out which models of shoes will be chosen by consumers with one or another psycho-type.
Materials for Surface Design and Finishing for Contemporary Footwear – Part 1
Authors: Niculescu Olga , Badea Elena , Quaratesi Ilaria , Constantinescu Rodica Roxana , Gurau Dana
Published: November 2022

The leather industry creates a product that is both natural and long lasting. Leather is unique in its ability to combine beauty, comfort and practicality. Finishing, the last operation in natural leather processing, determines the appearance and value of the finished product, and has the purpose of embellishment, providing lustre and pleasant feel, covering flaws and forming a surface layer that protects leather during wear while improving resistance to external factors. The quality of the pigment pastes used in the composition of the leather surface finishing films influences some of the physical-mechanical, technological and aesthetic properties of the finished products. The materials for finishing – pigment pastes with aesthetic effect – were obtained based on dioxide-titanium, metal pigment-aluminum, polymeric binder, lauryl alcohol ethoxylated with 7 moles of ethylene oxide, waxes and plasticizers and were characterized by physical-chemical, microscopical, spectral and rheological analyses. Pigment pastes with metallic effect were used in combination with film forming acrylic and polyurethane polymers, with high resistance to light and aging for finishing natural leathers, with applications in creative industries (modern footwear).
Granice rasy. Między nowym rasizmem a płynną rasologią
Authors: Turowski Mariusz
Published: November 2022

We współczesnych dyskusjach na temat rasizmu mamy do czynienia z dwoma – rozumianymi często jako rywalizujące ze sobą – ujęciami: pierwsze to rasizm kulturowy, drugie to marksistowska problematyzacja rasizmu jako rezultatu sprzeczności o charakterze ekonomiczno-politycznym. Zgodnie z tym pierwszym (jego najnowsze konceptualizacje – nawiązujące do antyesencjalistycznych koncepcji kultury i tożsamości rozwijanych przez licznych autorów w ramach sporu o wielokulturowość w latach 90-tych ubiegłego wieku – znajdziemy w pracach Asha Amina czy Simona Weavera, ale też Zygmunta Baumana, np. w jego Life in Fragments [Bauman 1993] czy Płynnym życiu [Bauman 2007]) rasa to kategoria konstruowana w ramach złożonych procesów natury polityczno-historyczno-kulturowych. Perspektywa marksistowska w znacznym stopniu rozwijana jest w ramach krytyki tej pierwszej orientacji (chodzi tu w głównej mierze o koncepcję Edny Bonacich, Erica Hobsbawma czy Jamesa Blauta). W jej myśl, wszelkie „dyskursywne strategie urasowienia”, o których mówi teoria rasizmu kulturowego (prowadzące do arbitralnej produkcji „kozłów ofiarnych”) stanowią odzwierciedlenie, a ściślej – fasadę – mechanizmów działających w bazie, w sferze produkcji: wyzysku robotników w wyniku kapitalistycznego parcia do minimalizacji kosztów pracy, możliwemu dzięki istnieniu „rezerwowej armii kapitału” (wieś podczas rewolucji przemysłowej opisywanej przez Marksa czy tania siła robocza w koloniach, w państwach peryferyjnych oraz w obrębie postnarodowych społeczeństw obywatelsko-imigranckich [Europa Zachodnia] w analizach marksistów, post- i neomarksistów 20-wiecznych i współczesnych). Główne pytanie, które zostanie zadane w niniejszym artykule dotyczy możliwości zaproponowania ujęcie łączącego, syntetyzującego ze sobą te dwa powyższe, gdzie rasizm będzie definiowany jako wspólny motyw przewijający się w licznych rasistowskich zjawiskach – konkretnych, historycznych narracjach i praktykach. Konieczne jest odwołanie się do konceptualizacji unikającej zarówno „upłynnienia” problemu rasizmu, sprowadzenia go do zbioru niestabilnych napięć między pozycjami społeczno-dyskursywnymi, typowego dla ujęć (post) modernistycznych, jak i instrumentalizacji różnic etnicznych i kulturowych w poszukiwaniu „podmiotu emancypacji”, możliwości eliminacji ekonomicznego wyzysku oraz dróg do postkolonialnego „narodowego wyzwolenia”. Strategia ta może okazać się owocnym zabiegiem zmierzającym do rozpoczęcia właściwej, wolnej z jednej strony od uproszczeń, a z drugiej od tworzenia zbyt pospiesznych analogii, refleksji nad współczesnymi tendencjami rasistowskimi.
o-Nitrobenzyl oxime ethers enable photo-induced cyclization reac-tion to provide phenanthridines under aqueous conditions
Authors: Okamura Hidenori , Iida Momoka , Kaneyama Yui , Nagatsugi Fumi
Published: November 2022

In this paper, we describe a novel N–O photolysis of o-nitrobenzyl oxime ethers that enables the synthesis of phenanthridines via intramolecular cyclization reactions. Without the use of additional photocatalysts or photosensitizers, the process proceeds with an efficiency of up to 96% when exposed to near-visible light (405 nm) under aqueous circumstances. Through the photoinduced production of a fluorescent phenanthridine derivative in HeLa cells, biocompatibility of the reaction was demonstrated. This photoinduced cyclization reaction could be used as a different photochemical instrument to control biological processes by inducing the production of bioactive molecules.
Multi-Agent Polygon Formation via Circle Formation
Authors: Yang Rui , Azadmanesh Azad , Farhat Hassan
Published: November 2022

This study considers the convex formation of polygons via a two-phase procedure. The approach infuses features from the behavioral and virtual structure methodologies. In the first phase, the agents form a circle. In the second phase, the agents are reconfigured into a polygon formation. Since the reconfiguration of virtual structures are often faced with challenges, the circle formation is adopted as the regrouping feature of agents before reconfiguration into a different polygon formation. No distinction is made among the agents, which simplifies formations. In addition, the agents can avoid collision during the formation process. Simulation results show precise formation of agents into different polygons. The results further indicate that the proposed approach has the potential to maintain the formation whilst the formation is rotating or changes location.