bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Human-Based Exposure Levels of Perfluoroalkyl Acids May Induce Harmful Effects to Health by Disrupting Major Components of Androgen Receptor Signalling In Vitro
Authors: McComb J. , Mills I. G. , Berntsen Hanne Friis , Ropstad E. , Verhaegen S. , Connolly L.
Published: August 2019

Perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAAs) are detectable in human blood. PFAA exposure may contribute to androgen receptor (AR)-related health effects such as prostate cancer (PCa). In Norway and Sweden, exposures to PFAAs and PCa are very real concerns. In vitro studies conventionally do not investigate PFAA-induced AR disruption at human blood-based concentrations, thus limiting application to human health. We aim to determine the endocrine disrupting activity of PFAAs based upon human exposure levels, on AR transactivation and translocation. PFAAs (PFOS, PFOA, PFNA, PFDA, PFHxS, and PFUnDA) were tested at concentrations ranging from 1/10 × to 500 × relative to human blood based upon the exposure levels observed in a Scandinavian population. Translocation was measured by high content analysis (HCA) and transactivation was measured by reporter gene assay (RGA). No agonist activity (translocation or transactivation) was detected for any PFAAs. In the presence of testosterone, AR translocation increased following exposure to PFOS 1/10 × and 100 ×, PFOA 1/10 ×, and PFNA 1 × and 500 × (P < 0.05). In the presence of testosterone, PFOS 500 × antagonised AR transactivation, whereas PFDA 500 × increased AR transactivation (P < 0.05). PFAAs may contribute to AR-related adverse health effects such as PCa. PFAAs can disrupt AR signalling via two major components: translocation and transactivation. PFAAs which disrupt one signalling component do not necessarily disrupt both. Therefore, to fully investigate the disruptive effect of human exposure-based contaminants on AR signalling, it is imperative to analyse multiple molecular components as not all compounds induce a disruptive effect at the same level of receptor signalling.
A Discussion of Kathryn Sikkink's Evidence for Hope: Making Human Rights Work in the 21st Century
Authors: Hopgood Stephen
Published: August 2019

Since their emergence in the late eighteenth century, doctrines of universal individual rights have been variously criticized as philosophically confused, politically inefficacious, ideologically particular, and Eurocentric. Nevertheless, today the discourse of universal human rights is more internationally widespread and influential than ever. In Evidence for Hope, leading international relations scholar Kathryn Sikkink argues that this is because human rights laws and institutions work. Sikkink rejects the notion that human rights are a Western imposition and points to a wide range of evidence that she claims demonstrates the effectiveness of human rights in bringing about a world that is appreciably improved in many ways from what it was previously. We have invited a broad range of scholars to assess Sikkink’s challenging claims.
Complex Lithospheric Deformation in Eastern and Northeastern Tibet From Shear Wave Splitting Observations and Its Geodynamic Implications
Authors: Gao Yifan , Chen Ling , Wang Xu , Ai Yinshuang
Published: August 2019

The eastern and northeastern Tibetan Plateau is a key region to study the growth and expansion of the plateau and associated extrusion tectonics. We studied the seismic anisotropic structure in this region by shear wave splitting analysis of teleseismic records from a dense linear seismic array, to constrain the lithospheric deformation and processes. We detected small‐scale variations in anisotropy, including changes of splitting parameters around major faults and different anisotropy patterns among individual tectonic blocks and units but with consistent interior features. Our results combined with previous observations suggest that, in addition to the dominant effects of lateral extrusion induced by the India‐Eurasia collision, major faults and tectonic heterogeneity may have also exerted significant impacts on the deformation and thus anisotropic structure of the lithosphere. In particular, we constructed two‐layer anisotropy models for both the Longmenshan subblock in the easternmost Songpan‐Ganzi terrane and the western Qinling orogen, indicating crust‐mantle decoupling in these areas. The lower anisotropic layer of both areas shows a general NW‐SE fast polarization direction. We attribute this feature to the large‐scale mantle deformation, due to the lateral extrusion of Tibet associated with the India‐Eurasia collision. The upper‐layer anisotropy in both areas features an optimal NEE‐SWW fast polarization direction. While in the Longmenshan subblock it may stem from crustal deformation under the combined effects of middle‐lower crustal flow, faulting, and tectonic heterogeneity, that in the western Qinling orogen is probably resulted from shearing caused by upper crustal displacement along a midcrustal detachment.
Study of Variation of Polar Cap Potential During Geomagnetic Storm Events of 24 November 2001 and 24 August 2005 as Observed From LFM and BATS‐R‐US Simulation
Authors: Paudel D. , Bhattarai S. K. , Ghimire B. , Gurung C. , Chapagain N. P.
Published: August 2019

In this paper we examine variation of polar cap potential (PCP) during two storm events that occurred on 24 November 2001 and 24 August 2005 using Lyon‐Fedder‐Mobarry (LFM) and Block‐Adaptive‐Tree‐Solarwind_Roe‐Upwind‐Scheme (BATS‐R‐US) simulations and compare it to Weimer model. These events were simulated for zero, pure By, pure Bz, and full IMF conditions separately, and the PCP obtained were compared with the zero IMF PCP value as a baseline (viscous) potential. For southward IMF, PCP is defined as sum of reconnection and viscous, whereas for northward IMF, it is peak to peak potential, which either will be viscous potential or reconnection potential, whichever is larger. Both events were simulated for a constant ionospheric conductivity of 5 mhos and the variation of PCP was found to be consistent with previous literatures. Furthermore, we found that BATS‐R‐US PCP fluctuated similar to LFM PCP for most parts although their PCP values did not exactly match. We observed that BATS‐R‐US PCP also goes below viscous value for northward IMF condition, something which was observed previously in LFM simulation only. We also found that BATS‐R‐US PCP is more sensitive to smaller fluctuation of IMF compared to LFM. For 24 August 2005 event, we found the PCP reach up to 550 and 440 kV and the viscous potential reached up to 120 and 110 kV for BATS‐R‐US and LFM, respectively. Similarly, for 24 November 2001 event PCP reached up to 800 and 400 kV and viscous potential reached up to 300 and 200 kV, respectively, for BATS‐R‐US and LFM.
A Cloud Detection Algorithm Over Land Based on the Polarized Characteristics Difference Between Cloudless and Cloud Targets
Authors: Gao Xin , Hu Xiuqing , Fang Wei , Yin Dekui
Published: August 2019

The accurate identification of cloud over land is one of the key issues of the satellite data processing and the product retrievals. This paper describes a new cloud detection algorithm based on Level 1 data of Polarization and Directionality of Earth's Reflectance. The simulation of multiangular normalized polarized reflectance is done for cloudless targets over land before the cloud identification processing. First, the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index over land and reflectance of 670 nm are used as two initial criterions for the cloud mask. Then, the difference between the simulation and Polarization and Directionality of Earth's Reflectance observation of polarized reflectance is used as the third criterion to distinguish cloudless pixels from cloud ones. And this algorithm is proved to be more convenient and effective. This algorithm is also applied to cloud mask processing of the Multi‐Angular Polarization Imager (onboard the Tiangong‐2) observation. The results show that this algorithm can effectively detect cloud targets over land, and its consistency with Polarization and Directionality of Earth's Reflectance official cloud mask products is about 90%. This algorithm can provide reliable cloud mask products for the retrieval of optical and physical properties of land aerosol using Multi‐Angular Polarization Imager data.
Selective control of surface spin current in topological pyrite-type OsX2 (X = Se, Te) crystals
Authors: Yin Yuefeng , Fuhrer Michael S. , Medhekar Nikhil V.
Published: August 2019

Topological materials host robust surface states that could form the basis for future electronic devices. As such states have spins that are locked to the momentum, they are of particular interest for spintronic applications. Understanding spin textures of the surface states of topologically nontrivial materials, and being able to manipulate their polarization, is therefore essential if they are to be utilized in future technologies. Here we use first-principles calculations to show that pyrite-type crystals OsX2 (X = Se, Te) are a class of topological materials that can host surface states with spin polarization that can be either in-plane or out-of-plane. We show that the formation of low-energy states with symmetry-protected energy- and direction-dependent spin textures on the (001) surface of these materials is a consequence of a transformation from a topologically trivial to nontrivial state, induced by spin orbit interactions. The unconventional spin textures of these surface states feature an in-plane to out-of-plane spin polarization transition in the momentum space protected by local symmetries. Moreover, the surface spin direction and magnitude can be selectively filtered in specific energy ranges. Our demonstration of a new class of topological materials with controllable spin textures provides a platform for experimentalists to detect and exploit unconventional surface spin textures in future spin-based nanoelectronic devices.
City-scale car traffic and parking density maps from Uber Movement travel time data
Authors: Aryandoust Arsam , van Vliet Oscar , Patt Anthony
Published: August 2019

Car parking is of central importance to congestion on roads and the urban planning process of optimizing road networks, pricing parking lots and planning land use. The efficient placement, sizing and grid connection of charging stations for electric cars makes it even more important to know the spatio-temporal distribution of car parking densities on the scale of entire cities. Here, we generate car parking density maps using travel time measurements only. We formulate a Hidden Markov Model that contains non-linear functional relationships between the changing average travel times among the zones of a city and both the traffic activity and flow direction probabilities of cars. We then sample the traffic flow for 1,000 cars per city zone for each city from these probability distributions and normalize the resulting spatial parking distribution of cars in each time step. Our results cover the years 2015–2018 for 34 cities worldwide. We validate the model for Melbourne and reach about 90% accuracy for parking densities and over 93% for circadian rhythms of traffic activity.
Detecting gas-rich hydrothermal vents in Ngozi Crater Lake using integrated exploration tools
Authors: Jolie Egbert
Published: August 2019

Gas-rich hydrothermal vents in crater lakes might pose an acute danger to people living nearby due to the risk of limnic eruptions as a result of gas accumulation in the water column. This phenomenon has been reported from several incidents, e.g., the catastrophic Lake Nyos limnic eruption. CO2 accumulation has been determined from a variety of lakes worldwide, which does not always evolve in the same way as in Lake Nyos and consequently requires a site-specific hazard assessment. This paper discusses the current state of Lake Ngozi in Tanzania and presents an efficient approach how major gas-rich hydrothermal feed zones can be identified based on a multi-disciplinary concept. The concept combines bathymetry, thermal mapping of the lake floor and gas emission studies on the water surface. The approach is fully transferable to other volcanic lakes, and results will help to identify high-risk areas and develop suitable monitoring and risk mitigation measures. Due to the absence of a chemical and thermal stratification of Lake Ngozi the risk of limnic eruptions is rather unlikely at present, but an adapted monitoring concept is strongly advised as sudden CO2 input into the lake could occur as a result of changes in the magmatic system.
Engineered models to parse apart the metastatic cascade
Authors: Hapach Lauren A. , Mosier Jenna A. , Wang Wenjun , Reinhart-King Cynthia A.
Published: August 2019

While considerable progress has been made in studying genetic and cellular aspects of metastasis with in vitro cell culture and in vivo animal models, the driving mechanisms of each step of metastasis are still relatively unclear due to their complexity. Moreover, little progress has been made in understanding how cellular fitness in one step of the metastatic cascade correlates with ability to survive other subsequent steps. Engineered models incorporate tools such as tailored biomaterials and microfabrication to mimic human disease progression, which when coupled with advanced quantification methods permit comparisons to human patient samples and in vivo studies. Here, we review novel tools and techniques that have been recently developed to dissect key features of the metastatic cascade using primary patient samples and highly representative microenvironments for the purposes of advancing personalized medicine and precision oncology. Although improvements are needed to increase tractability and accessibility while faithfully simulating the in vivo microenvironment, these models are powerful experimental platforms for understanding cancer biology, furthering drug screening, and facilitating development of therapeutics.
Adipocyte metabolism is improved by TNF receptor-targeting small RNAs identified from dried nuts
Authors: Aquilano Katia , Ceci Veronica , Gismondi Angelo , De Stefano Susanna , Iacovelli Federico , Faraonio Raffaella , Di Marco Gabriele , Poerio Noemi , Minutolo Antonella , Minopoli Giuseppina , Marcone Antonia , Fraziano Maurizio , Tortolici Flavia , Sennato Simona , Casciardi Stefano , Potestà Marina , Bernardini Roberta , Mattei Maurizio , Falconi Mattia , Montesano Carla , Rufini Stefano , Canini Antonella , Lettieri-Barbato Daniele
Published: August 2019

There is a growing interest in therapeutically targeting the inflammatory response that underlies age-related chronic diseases including obesity and type 2 diabetes. Through integrative small RNA sequencing, we show the presence of conserved plant miR159a and miR156c in dried nuts having high complementarity with the mammalian TNF receptor superfamily member 1a (Tnfrsf1a) transcript. We detected both miR159a and miR156c in exosome-like nut nanovesicles (NVs) and demonstrated that such NVs reduce Tnfrsf1a protein and dampen TNF-α signaling pathway in adipocytes. Synthetic single-stranded microRNAs (ss-miRs) modified with 2′-O-methyl group function as miR mimics. In plants, this modification naturally occurs on nearly all small RNAs. 2′-O-methylated ss-miR mimics for miR156c and miR159a decreased Tnfrsf1a protein and inflammatory markers in hypertrophic as well as TNF-α-treated adipocytes and macrophages. miR156c and miR159a mimics effectively suppress inflammation in mice, highlighting a potential role of plant miR-based, single-stranded oligonucleotides in treating inflammatory-associated metabolic diseases.
Nanoimprinted Immunosensors
Authors: Jiang Shu , Saito Masato
Published: August 2019

In this chapter, we focus on introducing a combination of plasmonic biosensors and nanoimprint technology. Initially, we describe the basics of nanoimprint and plasmonics based biosensing methods, localised surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) and surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS); then, we present a review regarding the current situation of plasmonic biosensing applications of nanostructures fabricated utilising nanoimprint techniques. Finally, we will elaborate on case studies of our LSPR biosensor chips and the measurement of antibody–antigen specific binding.
How membrane lipids influence plasma delivery of reactive oxygen species into cells and subsequent DNA damage: an experimental and computational study
Authors: Van der Paal Jonas , Hong Sung-Ha , Yusupov Maksudbek , Gaur Nishtha , Oh Jun-Seok , Short Robert D. , Szili Endre J. , Bogaerts Annemie
Published: August 2019

The combination of phospholipid vesicle experiments and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations illustrate how lipid oxidation, lipid packing and rafts formation may influence the response of healthy and diseased cell membranes to plasma-derived RONS.
Effects of Se substitution and transition metal doping on the electronic and magnetic properties of a MoSxSe2−x/h-BN heterostructure
Authors: Yu Fei-Fei , Ke Sha-Sha , Guan Shan-Shan , Deng Hong-Xiang , Guo Yong , Lü Hai-Feng
Published: August 2019

The van der Waals heterostructures created by stacking two monolayer semiconductors have been rapidly developed experimentally and exhibit various unique physical properties.
The stability of group 10 metal POCOP pincer complexes: decomposition/reconstruction pathways of the pincer backbone
Authors: Cao Bula , Ding Yazhou , Fang Fei , Chang Jiarui , Zhang Jie , Li Shujun , Chen Xuenian
Published: August 2019

Intramolecular nucleophilic attack on the metal or the phosphorus center of a POCOP pincer metal complex is lethal to the robust pincer backbone.
Structural insights into three phosphates with distinct polyanionic configurations
Authors: Sun Jun , Wu Hongping , Mutailipu Miriding , Yang Zhihua , Pan Shilie
Published: August 2019

P–O units are shown to feature distinct polyanionic configurations from [PO3]∞ chains to [P4O12]4− rings.
Ultra-small Rh nanoparticles supported on WO3−x nanowires as efficient catalysts for visible-light-enhanced hydrogen evolution from ammonia borane
Authors: Li Xiao , Yan Yucong , Jiang Yi , Wu Xingqiao , Li Shi , Huang Jingbo , Li Junjie , Lin Yangfan , Yang Deren , Zhang Hui
Published: August 2019

Rh/WO3−x hybrid nanowires were synthesized and exhibited substantially enhanced activity for hydrolytic dehydrogenation of ammonia borane relative to Rh/C and Rh + WO3−x.
Investigation of the blends of chitosan and tragacanth as potential drug carriers for the delivery of ibuprofen in the intestine
Authors: Dokhaee Zohre , Maghsoudi Ali , Ghiaci Payam , Ghiaci Mehran
Published: August 2019

This study provides a new potential hydrogel for the intestinal delivery of ibuprofen.
Convergent synthesis of hydrophilic monomethyl dolastatin 10 based drug linkers for antibody–drug conjugation
Authors: Yang Kanwen , Chen Bo , Gianolio Diego A. , Stefano James E. , Busch Michelle , Manning Charlene , Alving Kim , Gregory Richard C. , Brondyk William H. , Miller Robert J. , Dhal Pradeep K.
Published: August 2019

A cytotoxic reagent-free fragment coupling methodology was developed to produce hydrophilic drug linkers to prepare aggregation free antibody–drug conjugates.
Multi‐radar target parameter estimation and fusion based on attribute scattering centre model
Authors: Liu Chang , Tao Shifei , Ding Dazhi , Chen Rushan
Published: August 2019

This study proposes a method of observing the same target from different radars to extract more useful target information, solving the problem of target occlusion in monostatic radar. This study uses the parameter estimation method of two‐dimension compressed sensing algorithm based on the attribute scattering centre model to get the location, length and attitude angle of the target from different radars. The algorithm can reduce the memory, solving the problem of increasing data volume caused by multi‐radar observations. Simulation results are used to verify the effectiveness of the method. The multi‐radar imaging processing can also improve operation efficiency and enhance the visibility of the image, which is conducive to target recognition.
Photophoresis in the circumjovian disk and its impact on the orbital configuration of the Galilean satellites
Authors: Arakawa Sota , Shibaike Yuhito
Published: August 2019

Jupiter has four large regular satellites called the Galilean satellites: Io, Europa, Ganymede, and Callisto. The inner three of the Galilean satellites orbit in a 4:2:1 mean motion resonance; therefore their orbital configuration may originate from the stopping of the migration of Io near the bump in the surface density distribution and following resonant trapping of Europa and Ganymede. The formation mechanism of the bump near the orbit of the innermost satellite, Io, is not yet understood, however. Here, we show that photophoresis in the circumjovian disk could be the cause of the bump using analytic calculations of steady-state accretion disks. We propose that photophoresis in the circumjovian disk could stop the inward migration of dust particles near the orbit of Io. The resulting dust-depleted inner region would have a higher ionization fraction, and thus admit increased magnetorotational-instability-driven accretion stress in comparison to the outer region. The increase of the accretion stress at the photophoretic dust barrier would form a bump in the surface density distribution, halting the migration of Io.
Alternative method for minimally invasive determination of the wood fragility from cultural heritage assets
Authors: Ionescu Constantin Ștefan , Lunguleasa Aurel , Spîrchez Cosmin , Avram Anamaria
Published: August 2019

The main objective of the paper is to present an alternative, original method, as a minimally invasive technical solution, to determine the hardness of the damaged wood from the cultural heritage objects. For comparison, standard hardness determinations, Brinell and Janka methods are considered. The correlation of conventional hardness test results with the Brinell method, compared to the proposed MARK 10 test shows that less equivocal methods can be used for equally sensitive values. The minimal invasive measurement solution offers advantages in use and is a novelty with applications for the polychrome wood restoration. In order to determine the destructive level of several methods that determine the hardness of the wood, the different areas of the imprint left by the penetrator are compared: Janka hardness = 100 mm2, Brinell hardness to maximum 78 mm2, Mark 10 puncture being only 1.41 mm2. The general conclusion of the paper highlights the strengths of the researched alternative, experimented and presented by us in order to determine the level of degradation of the wooden supports of the art objects of cultural patrimony. This method brings improvements for diagnosing the degradation level of wood panels as well as to evaluate the effectiveness of the consolidation treatment.
Analysis the amount of lubrication and roughness of raceways on dynamic behavior on the ball bearing
Authors: Knežević Ivan , Živković Aleksandar , Bojanić Šejat Mirjana , Rackov Milan , Zeljković Milan , Cofaru Nicolae Florin
Published: August 2019

The operating principle of rolling bearings generates vibrations that come from the periodic change in the stiffness of the bearing. The vibration level of the bearing depends on a large number of factors such as waviness, surface roughness of the raceways, deviation of the raceway radius, exploitation conditions, amount of lubrication in the bearing and other. This paper presents the influence of the roughness of the raceways and the amount of lubrication on the level of vibrations of the ball bearing, designation 6006. The determination of the influence of these parameters was done experimentally. The experiment was performed according conditions prescribed by ISO 15242-2, and the analysis of the measured signals was performed according to the guidelines given by the standard ISO 15242-1.
Some aspects regarding the thermic behaviour of a basalt parts in machine building industry
Authors: Popp Ilie Octavian
Published: August 2019

This work aims to present some aspects regarding the opportunity of using basalt in manufacturing the subassemblies of machine tools. Melted and recrystallized basalt has demonstrated promising behavior with regards of its use in manufacturing, as reported in the literature. The researches presented in this work were focused on analyzing the behavior of basalt parts for machine tools submitted to thermic stress. The tests were made using grey cast iron and steel parts as reference for a comparative study. Testing methodology, specific measuring apparatus used, experimental test data records, data processing and resulting conclusions regarding the possibility of using basalt in machine tools manufacturing are presented in the paper.
Analysis of Possible Concept Solutions of Chain Drives
Authors: Rackov Milan , Kuzmanović Siniša , Knežević Ivan , Čavić Maja , Penčić Marko , Čavić Dijana , Florin Cofaru Nicolae
Published: August 2019

Possible concept solutions of chain drives are analysed in this paper in order to point out the benefits of chain drive application and, in particular, the possibility of application of multi-level chain drive. The paper also analyses the possibility of replacing the gear drives with chain drives, which, in the case of short-term drive and using the same direction of rotation, enables a slightly simpler drive solution. The paper doesn’t consider difference between the roller and gear chains application because these two types of chains can be used very successfully. Also, the possibility of using timing belt drive is not considered, but it can be also used very successfully in this type of drive, but only as a transmission of motion.
Development of Distance Learning Concept with Graphic Machines Working Process Visualization
Authors: Zeljkovic Zeljko , Novakovic Dragoljub , Dedijer Sandra , Kasikovic Nemanja , Djurdjevic Stefan
Published: August 2019

The paper presents the distance learning concept development by visualizing the work process of graphics machines. The basic goal is realized through the application development that includes machines simulations and their elements. A large number of simulations and explanations of the work process are included in the knowledge base. The concept is expanded to learning how to program machines so that the future operator can master significant knowledge that will enable him to engage in the production process quickly. The paper presents concrete types of machines for different printing techniques and machines for making packaging prototypes. For the realization of objects visualizations, modern software tools were used, which finally provided good quality.
Methods to identify time series abnormalities and predicting issues caused by component failures
Authors: Deac Crina Narcisa , Deac Gicu Calin , Chiscop Florina , Popa Cicerone Laurentiu
Published: August 2019

Anomaly detection is a crucial analysis topic in the field of Industry 4.0 data mining as well as knowing what is the probability that a specific machine to go down due to a failure of a component in the next time interval. In this article, we used time series data collected from machines, from both classes - time series data which leads up to the failures of machines as well as data from healthy operational periods of the machine. We used telemetry data, error logs from still operational components, maintenance records comprising historical breakdowns and replacement component to build and compare several different models. The validation of the proposed methods was made by comparing the actual failures in the test data with the predicted component failures over the test data.
Creative synthesis of the technical solutions in the field of industrial processes
Authors: Slătineanu Laurențiu , Hrițuc Adelina , Nagîț Gheorghe , Dodun Oana , Beșliu-Băncescu Irina , Oroian Bogdan , Condrea Ionuț , Botezatu Carmen , Ețcu Mihaela
Published: August 2019

When a technical problem is approached, as a direct consequence of analyzing certain distinct existing solutions, an improved solution of the problem could be elaborated. Over the years, some methods able to help the designers were identified and developed. The purpose of this paper was to take into consideration and to develop a succinct comparison of some creative considered methods of solving research problems in the field of industrial processes. The first group of analyzed design method was based on the initial use of the so-called ideas diagram. The results of the analysis were used to propose solutions concerning a device for investigation of the effects developed on sharp peaks by the electrical discharges. The axiomatic design was applied as a creative design method in the case of equipment for the investigation of degradation in time of the subsystems of the computers. The reverse engineering method was considered in the case of a device for supporting the tablet in a convenient position for the user. A final succinct comparison of the three ways of synthesizing an improved solution of a technical problem from the field of industrial processes highlights the essential characteristics of the approached methods.
Monitoring the technological processes in the wood industry in order to make them more efficient through technical overhauling
Authors: Paltan Radu Dan , Biriş Cristina , Rădulescu Loredana Anne-Marie
Published: August 2019

Of many techniques that are used to optimize production and costs, the studies conducted within a profile company lead to our choice for testing the 6Sigma method (the most used method in the automotive industry) in view of the economic efficiency applied in the wood Industry company. This method measures how many flaws exist in a process and determines in a systematic way how to improve it by technical overhauling and eliminating or minimizing the process for efficiency. This research article aims to study the state of research on the optimization of the production process through technical overhauling for panels reconstituted from solid wood and ways to make production more efficient by cutting costs through technical overhauling. From preliminary research, we estimate that all the items founded and others that will result from further research will result in a significant decrease in production costs that are reflected in the cost of the finished product and consequently in increasing the yield of the company by maximizing its profit. At the same time it may be the basis of future research studies in the field. The easier it is to maximize profits, the lower the operating costs are and the higher recovery rate of investments are, that will result a change in the operating mode: “working smarter not harder”.
Metallographical Aspects of the Application of Special Paint Layers for the Protection of Machine Part Sections against the Effect of lonitriding
Authors: Bibu Marius , Ciofu Florin
Published: August 2019

The paper presents aspects concerning the appreciation of the protection through special paints based on copper powders used against plasma nitriding. First of all the choice of copper is motivated as an important metallic component of protecting paints, with the characteristics that the copper presents in the context of the physical and chemical phenomena (from the cathode and from gas volume) specific for the ionic nitriding process. The paper contains comparatively some characteristics (the duration of drying on the coat, the compatibility of the components, the capacity of extension and of avoiding the leakage, the power of covering, the capacity of joining, and the emitting of gases, the resistance in friction before and after the ionic nitriding, the way of obtaining the copper powder and its quality, the capacity of removing after ionic nitriding etc.) of the mixtures, for the protection against ionic nitriding. Following the researches on making more efficient technologies of local protection of metal pieces on certain areas with isolated layers against plasma nitride, the authors realized 2 different kinds of special original paints noted V-1 and V-2 used for this purpose. These paints are made having a basis of copper powder combined with magnesium oxide and polystiren dissolved in carbon chloride.
Optimal Selection of Equipment for Injection Molding Process using the AHP Method
Authors: Hrițuc Adelina , Coteață Margareta , Dodun Oana , Nagîț Gheorghe , Slătineanu Laurențiu
Published: August 2019

Increased interest in the study of plastics has led to the development of processing technologies using such materials. The variety of plastics has led to a diversification of the technical processes through which the finished plastic products can be obtained. We approached the idea of designing plastic injection equipment, considering that various research could be made on the phenomena involved during the process, as well as the observation of the technological properties of the plastics. To design such equipment, some known methods used in conception processes could be applied. Optimizing the equipment design process is one of the elements that can ensure high efficiency of the entire injection molding process. Thus, the method chosen in this case was the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) method, which is one of the methods that offer the possibility to choose a solution when there are many alternatives. The relative simplicity and precision of this method are some of the arguments behind this method. The combination of required equipment and application of the AHP method allowed the choice of an optimal solution for testing injection molding. The result of design activity was an alternative to equipment that can be used for developing future research.
Electromagnetic Forming Analysis of the Al 99.0 Sheet with Tools of Different Configurations
Authors: Luca Dorin , Biriş Cristina , Luca Dorian
Published: August 2019

Electromagnetic forming is an advanced manufacturing procedure, characterized by the fact that the tool carrying the deformation force does not touch the workpiece. This paper presents research regarding the electromagnetic forming of Al 99.0 (EN AW-1200) sheet with coils, having different configurations. The purpose of the research was to find the flat spiral coil configuration that ensures maximum deformation of the workpiece. Flat spiral coils with different gaps between the coil and the workpiece, and coils with different number of windings were tested. The influence of these parameters was monitored on the maximum strain of the free bulged parts. The analysis of the results obtained for different configurations of the flat spiral coils allowed the selection of the significant parameters that influenced the electromagnetic forming process of the Al 99.0 flat workpiece, which aimed to elaborate the mathematical model and to optimize the investigated process.
The Analysis of Fiber and CO2 Laser Cutting Accuracy
Authors: Sołtysiak Robert , Wasilewski Piotr , Sołtysiak Agnieszka , Troszyński Adam , Maćkowiak Paweł
Published: August 2019

The aim of the conducted research was to compare the functional properties and the cutting accuracy of items produced using Fiber lasers in comparison with CO2 lasers. The object of 6 mm thick sheet plates made of S235JR steel cut with the two different laser types were analyzed. The tests covered dimensional accuracy (in accordance with the PN EN 22768-fH standard) and the surface after cutting (in accordance with the PN-EN ISO 9013: 2017-04). The results of the analysis have demonstrated that for the same welding linear energy, more accurate cutting surface is obtained using Fiber laser cutting.
Personalised Formwork – scientific approach for new solution variants
Authors: Diaconu Raluca , Brindasu Paul Dan
Published: August 2019

Application of personalised formwork is of most interest for architects and engineers now-a-days. Although a required demand when designing special constructions, there is little data and material solutions for this case. The cost and domain of application are of most importance in determining new solutions for concrete formworks. To contribute to these requests (a wider usage domain, productive material cost and maintenance), a personalised formwork concept is presented. The idea of reusing the formwork led to an elastic material – membrane (thermoset elastomers, synthetic rubber) with a punching tie-rod solution in order to obtain any architectural shape desired. This first solution was evaluated taking into account different membrane thicknesses. Several experimental tests denoted that the named chosen membrane variants are of low resistance for pouring a concrete architectural slab, so new solutions were discussed. Hence, a re-analysis of the PLM steps was achieved in order to find an answer for the encountered problem. By using creative methods, we obtained a second solution and put it to test. The attained results are used in order to establish the area of workability, to enlarge the tested domain and to assess the sustainability of a new type of personalised formwork
Considerations and simulations about Pulse Detonation Engine
Authors: Prisacariu Vasile , Rotaru Constantin , Niculescu Mihai Leonida
Published: August 2019

PDE propulsion can work from a subsonic regime to hypersonic regimes; this type of engine can have higher thermodynamic efficiency compared to other turbojet or turbofan engines due to the removal of rotating construction elements (compressors and turbines) that can reduce the mass and total cost of propulsion system. The PDE experimental researches focused on both the geometric configuration and the thermo-gas-dynamic flow aspects to prevent uncontrolled self-ignition. This article presents a series of numerical simulations on the functioning of PDE with hydrogen at supersonic regimens.
Effects of reversible lane implementation, a case study simulation
Authors: Lobonț Lucian , Pînzariu Andrei Marius
Published: August 2019

In a modern society, transport is a necessity for carrying out certain activities that human communities are involved in. This need for mobility is on a continuous rise and can be characterized by the possibility of moving from one point to another, using different means of transport, in order to facilitate the performed activities. The purpose of this research is to design and evaluate the implementation of a system of reversible lanes using simulation. As methodology, it starts from an analysis of data collected from real traffic condition through implementation and simulation with the Synchro application. The analysis proposes solutions to decongest traffic through the implementation of reversible lanes and the simulation is performed again for impact assessment. Our results suggest that the implementation of reversible lanes can help to decongest traffic if complementary solutions are adopted. The approach can be used successfully in any scientific analysis and design approach to optimize traffic flows.
On the possibility to decrease the fuel consumption for a heavy-duty truck Diesel engine using the Turbo-compound method: a case study
Authors: Radu Bogdan , Racovitza Alexandru
Published: August 2019

The reduction of Diesel internal combustion engines emissions is one of the major concerns of the engines manufacturers. Despite the fact that the efficiency of the gas post-treatment systems has been significantly improved, decreasing the smoke and the soot from the cylinder inside remains a main research goal. This work is proposing a theoretical study on these pollutants formation for different kinds of direct injection methods. By dividing the in-cylinder injection the heat release characteristic could be modified, leading to different temperature and pressure levels. Using exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) the reduction of the gas temperatures might also be decreased, limiting NOx formation. To evaluate the level of the cylinder gas emissions formation a two-step procedure could be followed. First, by using a numerical calculation system the heat release characteristic can be highlighted concerning a Diesel engine with stratified injection; then, using an experimental relationship applying a large data base, the amount of the gas emissions can be subsequently provided. The authors propose some combinations between injection characteristics and EGR used fractions which could generate successfully results speaking in terms of NOx, soot and smoke formation.
Considerations on Management for Technological Entrepreneurship
Authors: Popa Elena-Izabela , Furdui Amalia , Edelhauser Eduard-Victor
Published: August 2019

The study focuses on the idea that the variations between countries regarding entrepreneurial activity and spatial structure of economies could be the source of various efficiencies in disseminating knowledge and economic growth.The study aims at developing an empirical model for both entrepreneurial activity and agglomeration effects on knowledge diffusion. The model is tested using cross-border data to measure the level of entrepreneurship in each economy. We believe that, after controlling the knowledge pool and R & D spending, both entrepreneurial activity and agglomeration have a positive and statistically significant effect on technological change in the European Union.
Governmental interventionism degree in economy - a case study in OECD countries
Authors: Sadeh Arik , Radu Claudia Florina , Feniser Cristina , Brown Ken
Published: August 2019

In this study, we talk about the economic role of the state, and we analyze the degree of its intervention in the economy within the OECD countries, for the period 2000-2016. Thus, we seek to identify the countries characterized by an active intervention as well as a weaker level of state intervention. Then, we show the types of public spending that the state places more emphasis on. We analyze the distribution of state intervention (given by budget revenues) concerning to GDP, fiscal pressure, the period before and after the 2008 crises and certain types of expenditure. We can say that, generally, well-developed countries are characterized by a high level of state interventionism, while less developed ones by lower interventionism. The degree of interventionism level is smaller after the 2008 crises.
Mechanical properties comparison of Ti6Al4V produced by different technologies under static load conditions
Authors: Karolewska Karolina , Ligaj Bogdan
Published: August 2019

The most commonly used technology among the additive manufacturing is Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS). This process is based on selective laser sintering (SLS). The method gained its popularity due to the possibility of producing metal parts of any geometry, which would be difficult or impossible to obtain by the use of conventional manufacturing techniques. Materials used in the elements manufacturing process are: titanium alloys (e.g. Ti6Al4V), aluminium alloy AlSi10Mg, etc. Elements printed from Ti6Al4V titanium alloy find their application in many industries. Details produced by additive technology are often used in medicine as skeletal, and dental implants. Another example of the DMLS elements use is the aerospace industry. In this area, the additive manufacturing technology produces, i.a. parts of turbines. In addition to the aerospace and medical industries, DMLS technology is also used in motorsport for exhaust pipes or the gearbox parts. The research objects are samples for static tests. These samples were made of Ti6Al4V alloy by the DMLS method and the rolling method from a drawn rod. The aim of the paper is the mechanical properties comparative analysis of the Ti6Al4V alloy produced by the DMLS method under static loading conditions and microstructure analysis of this material.
Casing while Drilling – a Viable Alternative to Conventional Drilling
Authors: Foidaş Ion , Ștefănescu Dan-Paul , Serbancea Mihai
Published: August 2019

Mankind’s increased requirement for and dependence on energy resources, including the resources resulting from discovery and development of new hydrocarbon commercial reservoirs involves the use of new technologies such as optimization of the drilling process by reducing the non-productive time, the costs and the risks. Casing while drilling involves elimination of classical drilling string by using the casing string both for transmission to the bit of the mechanical energy and for circulation of drilling fluid into the well. Although there is a number of technical or perception barriers related to the use of casing drilling, the important benefits of this technology related to reduced drilling time and problems associated to the drilling string make it an increasingly viable alternative to conventional drilling. The experience in applying this technology has proven that it can reduce the time of well execution and sometimes it lowers the costs in relation to drilling depth.
Modelling the Atmospheric Distillation Using the Unisim Design Simulator
Authors: Patrascioiu Cristian
Published: August 2019

The process of atmospheric distillation represents the first oil processing process realized in refineries, with a particular impact, both in terms of production and energy. The modeling and simulation of the atmospheric distillation process is one of the tools used to reduce operating costs and increase the efficiency of the industrial plant. The paper aims at presenting research concerning the calculation of liquid-vapor equilibrium for petroleum products as well as an exhaustive analysis of an oil distillation column modeling. The paper is an indispensable didactic component in the mathematical modeling activity of the atmospheric distillation process.
Factors Influencing the Enhancement of Energy Efficiency in the Oil and Gas Industry
Authors: Suditu Silvian , Stoica Monica Emanuela , Cristescu Tudora
Published: August 2019

In Romania, major focus and interest are currently expressed for the energy strategies domain. The increase of the energetic efficiency is therefore a main concern for the authorities. In the current paper the main factors which are leading to the increase of this energetic efficiency are highlighted. These are: CHP (Combined Heat Power), combined cycles, the use of RER (reusable energy resources). The article also contains a classification of the RES (secondary energy resources) as function of the thermodynamic agent nature and/or its thermodynamic state. The theory and concepts are strengthened with relevant examples which have direct applicability in the oil and gas industry.
Designing the ultrasonic system used in industrial air filtration based on the ultrasonic cavitation phenomenon
Authors: Niţoi Dan , Apostolescu Zoia , Petriceanu Constantin , Rontescu Corneliu
Published: August 2019

The paper presents the activity developed developed in the field of polluted air purification from industrial shop (paint shops, foundries, welding constructions, forging, etc.). The advantages of using ultrasounds in the pollutant air filtration and purification process and an ultrasonic filter designed are presented considering the ultrasonic cavitation phenomenon. The main computational and construction elements of the ultra-acoustic system used in the design of the air filter are presented in the paper. The work focuses in the design of the main part of the ultrasonic system represented by ultrasonic transducer. In this case, the transducer network that is used in ultrasonic cavitation method consists of ten ultrasonic transducers. Each one of them consists of asymmetrical passive elements (reflector and radiant element).The design steps and the use of FEM as working method will provide the theoretical basis of the operation of the ultrasonic system so that it allows air filtration based on the ultrasonic acoustic cavitation phenomenon.