bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design aspects of all atomic layer deposited TiO2–Fe2O3 scaffold-absorber photoanodes for water splitting
Authors: Hiltunen Arto , Ruoko Tero-Petri , Iivonen Tomi , Lahtonen Kimmo , Ali-Löytty Harri , Sarlin Essi , Valden Mika , Leskelä Markku , Tkachenko Nikolai
Published: July 2018

Role of FeTi-oxide formation vs. crystallization to hematite in the TiO2–Fe2O3 scaffold-absorber photoanodes is investigated.
Many-body depletion forces of colloids in a polydisperse polymer dispersant in the long-chain limit
Authors: Nguyen Huy S. , Forsman Jan , Woodward Clifford E.
Published: July 2018

We study a system of spherical non-adsorbing particles immersed in a polydisperse polymer fluid.
A geometrical criterion for glass transition in soft-sphere fluids
Authors: Zhou Yuxing , Milner Scott T.
Published: July 2018

Supercooled monodisperse WCA fluids have been simulated using the crystal-avoiding method. After mapping to hard spheres, we find that the “T1-activity” (a geometrical criterion for neighbor rearrangement) of particles is correlated with glassy dynamics.
Redox shuttle enhances nonthermal femtosecond two-photon self-doping of rGO–TiO2−x photocatalysts under visible light
Authors: Ran Peng , Jiang Lan , Li Xin , Zuo Pei , Li Bo , Li Xiaojie , Cheng Xiaoyan , Zhang Jiatao , Lu Yongfeng
Published: July 2018

Nonthermal self-doping of visible-active rGO–TiO2−x photocatalysts is proposed through femtosecond two-photon excitation based on redox hole shuttle.
Antibacterial and potentiation properties of charge-optimized polyrotaxanes for combating opportunistic bacteria
Authors: Qiao Jing , Liu Zhi , Purro Max , Xiong May P.
Published: July 2018

Bacteria are now becoming more resistant to most conventional antibiotics. Approaches for the treatment of multidrug-resistant bacterial infections are urgently required.
Correction: Goodbye to the bioassay
Authors: Goodman Jay I.
Published: July 2018

Correction for ‘Goodbye to the bioassay’ by Jay I. Goodman et al., Toxicol. Res., 2018, 7, 558–564.
Cilium structure, assembly, and disassembly regulated by the cytoskeleton
Authors: Mirvis Mary , Stearns Tim , James Nelson W.
Published: July 2018

The cilium, once considered a vestigial structure, is a conserved, microtubule-based organelle critical for transducing extracellular chemical and mechanical signals that control cell polarity, differentiation, and proliferation. The cilium undergoes cycles of assembly and disassembly that are controlled by complex inter-relationships with the cytoskeleton. Microtubules form the core of the cilium, the axoneme, and are regulated by post-translational modifications, associated proteins, and microtubule dynamics. Although actin and septin cytoskeletons are not major components of the axoneme, they also regulate cilium organization and assembly state. Here, we discuss recent advances on how these different cytoskeletal systems­ affect cilium function, structure, and organization.
The role of metabolism and tunneling nanotube-mediated intercellular mitochondria exchange in cancer drug resistance
Authors: Hekmatshoar Yalda , Nakhle Jean , Galloni Mireille , Vignais Marie-Luce
Published: July 2018

Intercellular communications play a major role in tissue homeostasis. In pathologies such as cancer, cellular interactions within the tumor microenvironment (TME) contribute to tumor progression and resistance to therapy. Tunneling nanotubes (TNTs) are newly discovered long-range intercellular connections that allow the exchange between cells of various cargos, ranging from ions to whole organelles such as mitochondria. TNT-transferred mitochondria were shown to change the metabolism and functional properties of recipient cells as reported for both normal and cancer cells. Metabolic plasticity is now considered a hallmark of cancer as it notably plays a pivotal role in drug resistance. The acquisition of cancer drug resistance was also associated to TNT-mediated mitochondria transfer, a finding that relates to the role of mitochondria as a hub for many metabolic pathways. In this review, we first give a brief overview of the various mechanisms of drug resistance and of the cellular communication means at play in the TME, with a special focus on the recently discovered TNTs. We further describe recent studies highlighting the role of the TNT-transferred mitochondria in acquired cancer cell drug resistance. We also present how changes in metabolic pathways, including glycolysis, pentose phosphate and lipid metabolism, are linked to cancer cell resistance to therapy. Finally, we provide examples of novel therapeutic strategies targeting mitochondria and cell metabolism as a way to circumvent cancer cell drug resistance.
Bacterial zinc uptake regulator proteins and their regulons
Authors: Mikhaylina Alevtina , Ksibe Amira Z. , Scanlan David J. , Blindauer Claudia A.
Published: July 2018

All organisms must regulate the cellular uptake, efflux, and intracellular trafficking of essential elements, including d-block metal ions. In bacteria, such regulation is achieved by the action of metal-responsive transcriptional regulators. Among several families of zinc-responsive transcription factors, the ‘zinc uptake regulator’ Zur is the most widespread. Zur normally represses transcription in its zinc-bound form, in which DNA-binding affinity is enhanced allosterically. Experimental and bioinformatic searches for Zur-regulated genes have revealed that in many cases, Zur proteins govern zinc homeostasis in a much more profound way than merely through the expression of uptake systems. Zur regulons also comprise biosynthetic clusters for metallophore synthesis, ribosomal proteins, enzymes, and virulence factors. In recognition of the importance of zinc homeostasis at the host–pathogen interface, studying Zur regulons of pathogenic bacteria is a particularly active current research area.
The role of Rac in tumor susceptibility and disease progression: from biochemistry to the clinic
Authors: Casado-Medrano Victoria , Baker Martin J. , Lopez-Haber Cynthia , Cooke Mariana , Wang Shaofei , Caloca Maria J. , Kazanietz Marcelo G.
Published: July 2018

The family of Rho GTPases are involved in the dynamic control of cytoskeleton reorganization and other fundamental cellular functions, including growth, motility, and survival. Rac1, one of the best characterized Rho GTPases, is an established effector of receptors and an important node in signaling networks crucial for tumorigenesis and metastasis. Rac1 hyperactivation is common in human cancer and could be the consequence of overexpression, abnormal upstream inputs, deregulated degradation, and/or anomalous intracellular localization. More recently, cancer-associated gain-of-function mutations in Rac1 have been identified which contribute to tumor phenotypes and confer resistance to targeted therapies. Deregulated expression/activity of Rac guanine nucleotide exchange factors responsible for Rac activation has been largely associated with a metastatic phenotype and drug resistance. Translating our extensive knowledge in Rac pathway biochemistry into a clinical setting still remains a major challenge; nonetheless, remarkable opportunities for cancer therapeutics arise from promising lead compounds targeting Rac and its effectors.
Chromatin modulation and gene regulation in plants: insight about PRC1 function
Authors: Wang Qiannan , Shen Wen-Hui
Published: July 2018

In plant and metazoan, Polycomb Group (PcG) proteins play key roles in regulating developmental processes by repression of gene expression. PcG proteins function as multi-protein complexes; among them the best characterized ones are Polycomb Repressive Complex 1 (PRC1) and PRC2. PRC2 catalyzes histone H3 lysine 27 trimethylation (H3K27me3), and PRC1 can bind H3K27me3 and catalyzes H2A monoubiquitination. While the PRC2 components and molecular functions are evolutionarily conserved, varied PRC1 complexes are found and they show high divergences between animals and plants. In addition to the core subunits, an exponentially increasing number of PRC1-associated factors have been identified in Arabidopsis thaliana. Recent studies have also unraveled cross-component interactions and intertwined roles of PRC1 and PRC2 in chromatin modulation. In addition, complexities of interactions and functions between PcG and Trithorax Group proteins have been observed. This short review summarizes up current knowledge to provide insight about repressive functional mechanism of PRC1 and its interplay with other factors.
Rho kinase activation in circulating leukocytes is related to hypertensive myocardial remodeling
Authors: Ocaranza Maria P. , Fierro Camila , Jalil Jorge E. , Moya Jackeline , Gonzalez Leticia , Molina Cristián , Mancilla Cristián
Published: July 2018

Rho-kinase has relevant functions in blood pressure modulation and cardiovascular remodeling. Rho-kinase activity is determined in circulating leukocytes measuring phosphorylation of its target myosin phosphatase target subunit 1 (MYPT1), but its relationship with Rho-kinase activity in the myocardium and in vasculature in hypertension has not been evaluated.

The aim was to determine the degree of association between Rho-kinase cascade activation in circulating leukocytes with cardiac and aortic Rho-kinase pathway activation in a model of hypertension and to analyze it with a cause–effect perspective.

Hypertensive deoxycorticosterone (DOCA)-salt rats received the Rho-kinase antagonist fasudil (DOCA-Fas, 100 mg/kg/day, 3 weeks). Results were compared with an untreated DOCA-salt and a sham group.

Rho-kinase inhibition reduced significantly blood pressure, cardiac hypertrophy, myocardial collagen and macrophage infiltration, but not aortic wall hypertrophy. Fasudil decreased significantly Rho-kinase activity in peripheral blood mononucleated cells (PBMC), myocardium and aortic wall to similar levels as in the sham group. A significant correlation was found between PBMC Rho-kinase activity and cardiac remodeling, specifically with hypertrophy (r = 0.51, P≤0.01), myocardial collagen (r = 0.40, P≤0.05) and ED1 immunostaining (r = 0.48, P≤0.01). In the untreated hypertensive group, increased levels (P<0.05) of the proinflammatory molecules p65 NF-κB, vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 and interleukin-6 antibody in the myocardium, aortic wall and PBMC were observed and were reduced with fasudil (P<0.05).

In conclusion, in this hypertension model, Rho-kinase and its pathway activation determined in circulating leukocytes reflect the activation of this pathway in the myocardium and in the aortic wall and are significantly related to myocardial remodeling (hypertrophy, fibrosis and inflammation).
Sensorless predictive current control with a charge balance current estimator for boost converters based on discrete‐time model considering current ripple
Authors: Chen Chen , Tong Qiaoling , Min Run , Zhang Qiao , Zou Xuecheng , Liu Zhenglin
Published: July 2018

The performance of a sensorless predictive current controlled boost converter is usually susceptible to the accuracy of the employed converter and current estimator models. Since the accuracy of conventional current estimator would be degraded due to parasitic parameter variations, a charge balance current estimator (CBCE) is proposed to overcome this issue. Its estimation of peak inductor current is based on the charge balance principle of output capacitor and characteristics of inductor current ripple. Only one parasitic parameter – capacitor equivalent series resistance (ESR) is used in CBCE. Furthermore, the capacitor ESR is also estimated together with output load by a proposed equivalent load estimation scheme which can improve the current estimation accuracy. Besides, to achieve a high dynamic performance digital control, a discrete‐time model considering current ripple is developed, in which the ripple is taken into account rather than treats inductor current as a constant in each switching cycle. It can achieve a higher accuracy than conventional averaged model, especially in the high‐frequency region. Finally, its effectiveness is verified by simulation and experiment results.
Band‐stop filter sensor based on SIW cavity for the non‐invasive measuring of blood glucose
Authors: Kiani Sina , Rezaei Pejman , Karami Mahmood , Sadeghzadeh R.A.
Published: July 2018

Design and realisation of a substrate integrated waveguide (SIW) planar sensor for the non‐invasive monitoring of blood glucose concentration (BGC) is described. The structure of the presented sensor is similar to a conventional band‐stop filter. To produce a substantial and localised field enhancement in the sensing region by the SIW technology, the slots and interdigital arms on the upper conductor of the SIW cavity are utilised. Further, the fingertip is used as materials under test and its displacement and fingerprints effects are studied. The introduced sensor is then fabricated and measured. The evaluated results indicate that the developed sensor features improvement in both the fingertip positioning and fingerprints effects compared to the other work. Also, the frequency resonance shift of the proposed sensor observing the valuable enhancement of non‐invasive BGC detection sensitivity is much more than the previous study.
Dissociation of methyl formate (HCOOCH3) molecules upon low-energy electron attachment
Authors: Feketeová L. , Pelc A. , Ribar A. , Huber S. E. , Denifl S.
Published: July 2018

Context. The methyl formate molecule (HCOOCH3) is considered to be a key molecule in astrochemistry. The abundance of this molecule in space depends on the stability upon irradiation with particles like low-energy electrons.

Aims. We have investigated the decomposition of the molecule upon electron capture in the electron energy range from about 0 eV up to 15 eV. All experimentally obtained fragmentation channels of the molecular anion were investigated by quantum chemical calculations.

Methods. A high resolution electron monochromator coupled with quadrupole mass spectrometer was used for the present laboratory experiment. Quantum chemical calculations of the electron affinities of the generated fragments, the thermodynamic thresholds and the activation barriers for the associated reaction channels were carried out to complement the experimental studies.

Results. Electron attachment is shown to be a purely dissociative process for this molecule and proceeds within two electron energy regions of about 1 eV to 4 eV and from 5 eV to 14 eV. In our experiment five anionic fragments with m/z (and possible stoichiometric structure) 59 (C2H3O2−), 58 (C2H2O2−), 45 (CHO2−) 31 (CH3O−), and 29 (CHO−) were detected. The most abundant anion fragments that are formed through dissociative electron attachment to methyl formate are the complementary anions CH3O− and CHO−, associated with the same single bond cleavage and different survival probability.

Conclusions. The low-energy electron induced dissociation of methyl formate differs from its isomers acetic acid and glycolaldehyde, which leads to possible chemical selectivity in the chemical evolution.
Probabilistic Assessment of Road Risks for Improving Logistics Processes
Authors: Lakehal Abdelaziz , Tachi Fouad
Published: July 2018

The Intermodal transport represents a solution, which has proved its effectiveness, for the supply of the various logistic platforms. Road transport is also one of the means of transport used in the logistic function and is the most common. This type of transport is especially recommended for medium and short distance journeys. Transport is an important link in the logistical chain. Several constraints accompany this transport function such as: delays, flexibility, diversity of merchandise, and road risks. To identify this last problem of road risk and to minimize its influence, a Bayesian network has been developed in this paper. Through experts’ surveys and research in the literature, the various risks were identified. The structure of the Bayesian network is defined on the basis of this census. The network settings vary from one situation to another. The exploitation of statistics and historical files of the transport company has allowed to define the parameters (probabilities) given in the example studied in this paper. To prevent risks and anticipate failures in the logistics function, while optimizing a utility function, an influence diagram was used. This tool has provided the ability to control actions and make decisions safely. An example of merchandise transport between two port companies has shown promising results and better efficiency in the anticipation of actions.
Safety in ensuring the quality of production - the role and tasks of standards requirements
Authors: Górny Adam
Published: July 2018

During the performance of manufacturing tasks, safety - which is a primary responsibility of employers - has a major impact on production quality. To achieve such safety, employers must ensure working conditions that reflect worker needs and meet technical and organizational requirements. Safety requirements are designed to foster threat- and strainfree work in the workplace. By striving to comply with such requirements, organizations improve the conditions in which their production is performed. In their effort to incorporate essential principles into their systems, employers can benefit from applying the ISO 45001 standard, which defines the systemic requirements that must be embraced in their business in the same manner as the requirements adopted in any other field of activity, such as production quality. The article refers to standards derived from ISO 45001 that facilitate manufacturing improvements. It outlines the impact of systemic enhancements on workers’ ability to perform work safely.
Health problems among employees in small enterprises as a result of improper OHS management
Authors: Niciejewska Marta , Klimecka-Tatar Dorota
Published: July 2018

Occupational health problems are rarely underestimated both by employers and employees themselves. Lack of awareness about the impact of the environment on the health of the human body results in more frequent accidents, the sources of which are seen in the health problems of employees. Lifestyle, as well as the management of occupational health and safety, affect work quality and safety. It this paper ailments that have a significant impact on the health of the employee, which are the result of improper management of occupational safety and health in small enterprises, have been presented. The obtained results also indicate factors that cause various health problems among employees, with particular emphasis on stress symptoms.
Analysis of the 5S method in production enterprise - case study
Authors: Łyp-Wrońska Katarzyna , Tyczyński Bartłomiej
Published: July 2018

One of the most popular system in production enterprise is Lean Management. 5S is a method which introduces workflows allowing to increase the efficiency. The aim of the research is to analyze the use of the 5S method on the example of a selected company. The scope of work covered the years 2013-2017. Research methods are: analysis of enterprise data, employee opinion survey, participation in audits. One of the ways to maintain a proper level of order and cleanliness according to the 5S method in the factory is to confirm compliance by conducting an audit. Inspections are carried out on two levels. One of them is an internal audit, which is carried out by a foreman who works at a given hall. The second level is an external audit, which is carried out by employees of other halls. Teams with the best results are rewarded with incentive bonuses. The first audit in 2013 at the enterprise showed that the state of order is unsatisfactory. Therefore, corrective actions have been developed and implemented. Analyzing the data in subsequent research periods - up to 2017, it can be stated that due to the introduced changes, the results of all audits, increased.
Possibilities of using 3D printing for surface layers
Authors: Dulska Agnieszka
Published: July 2018

This article describes how to improve the tribological properties of cast iron by local strengthening by titanium layer, directly in the casting process. The research comprised test molds with a titanium (composite) layer. The insert with titanium was made basing on proprietary development of geometric assumptions. The innovation relies on application the 3D printing insert obtaining in SLM (selective laser melting) method. The tests included measurement of resistance to abrasive wear and carried out metallographic, microhardness measurements as the presents detailed geometry of the insert as well. On the basis of obtaining results was stated that there is a possibility of reinforcing surface layer of the grey cast iron casting by using 3D printing scaffold insert in the method of mould cavity preparation. Moreover there was a local increase in hardness and abrasive wear resistance in spite of the precipitation of titanium carbides in surface layer of grey cast iron.
Outsorcing quality control in the automotive industry
Authors: Ulewicz Robert
Published: July 2018

Providing high quality of products not covered by defective products is an important part of the supply chain between the manufacturer of the automotive parts and the final assembly company. The paper presents the results of research related to determining the effectiveness of quality control in a company producing plastic components for automotive industry at separate levels. Upon detection of nonconforming products at his plant, recepient according to the contract asked the supplier to launch the Controlled Shipping Level 1 procedures. As a result of the lack of significant improvement, there was run in the supplier’s plant the Controlled Shipping Level 2 procedure realized on an outsourcing basis by specialized external company. Presented results of the research have made it possible to determine the effectiveness of carried out control activities. Carried out research, also confirmed by expert interviews, show that automotive companies aim to make their business more flexible so that they respond faster and more easily to internal and mainly external factors. What in the opinion of production and quality managers provides outsorcing of quality control.
Quality improvement in Cleaner Production aspect
Authors: Rosak-Szyrocka Joanna
Published: July 2018

The aim of the paper is presented the Cleaner Production (CP) issue in the aspect of the benefits that it gives the company in the competitiveness productivity and efficiency aspect. The research object is a company that is a leader in the Cleaner Production area - cement plant CEMEX. The research was based on a comparative analysis the company’s sustainable development in 2008-2012. It was shown that substitution of alternative fuels (an increase of 43% in 2014 compared to 2010) and the construction the first world’s alternative fuels dryer enabled not only for carbon dioxide reduction, but also hard coal consumption reduction and as a consequence allowed to relieve landfills waste. Thanks to elimination a part of the water contained in alternative fuels up to 8%, the unit heat consumption in the clinker production process is reduced. This is due to avoiding evaporation of water at high temperatures. Analysis the presented data showed that the use of CP not only effectively protects the environment by reducing / minimizing waste streams, but also leads to increased profitability, productivity, efficiency and competitiveness of industry, which in turn leads to economic growth. The paper emphasizes that the CEMEX Rudniki cement plant has saved 132,000 Mg of carbon thanks to the use of alternative fuels over the last 5 years.
Management of the subsystem of production logistics in an enterprise
Authors: Kadłubek Marta , Mesjasz-Lech Agata
Published: July 2018

The logistic system emerged through the implementation of a systemic concept in logistics. In a production company the system can be very complex and it often consists of individual subsystems such as procurement and production subsystems. The article discusses the management of a logistic subsystem of production in terms of cost effectiveness on an example of a selected enterprise.
Selected aspects of technological innovations management in district heating companies
Authors: Rak Aleksandra
Published: July 2018

The accession of Poland to the EU results in the realization of EU directives, including the field of energy efficiency and CO2 emissions. The regulations oblige enterprises that produce and distribute heat to technical activities involving the use of existing heat sources and modernization of thermal networks, as well as economic and environmental optimization of the heat supply process. The implementation of these projects requires a change in the way the energy sector is managed and thoroughly restructured by implementing and applying technological and product innovations. The article discusses the legal and environmental conditions of the heat market in Poland, the key challenges for the heating industry and selected innovations in heating companies regarding two areas: technical infrastructure and management of the heat production and transmission.
Development of human capital in the context of improving processes in the enterprise
Authors: Prusak Rafal
Published: July 2018

Human is the key resource of the organization, and proper human resources management, manifested primarily by matching knowledge, skills and attitudes of employees to the strategic goals of the company should lead to their transformation into human capital and the synergy effect of combining the qualities and strengths of employees intensifying the frequency of the innovative concepts. The main purpose of the article is to present the results of research conducted on a sample of 70 enterprises regarding the analysis of the extent of enterprises’ use of the potential accumulated within human capital to improve the implemented processes, including quality management. The research covered issues related to the impact of the functioning of the human resources management system on the company efficiency, the main factors supporting and hindering the functioning of this system, as well as problems and difficulties occurring both at the stage of implementing the system and its subsequent operation. The basic research tool was a questionnaire consisting of 23 questions of a closed nature supported by interviews conducted with representatives of the management. The article also includes a literature review on selected aspects of shaping and managing human capital and increasing the professional potential of employees as a result of systemic management of their competences.
Vibroacoustics and psychoacoustics investigation of biodegradable composites for musical instruments
Authors: Segura Alcaraz Jorge , María Gadea Borrell José , Juliá Sanchis Ernesto , Enrique Crespo Amorósl José , Montava Belda Isaac , Rebagliato Torregrosa Sofía
Published: July 2018

Due to the extinction of some wood species used to manufacture guitars, there is a trend to search new alternative materials with the same acoustic performance. There is a wide range of tonewoods: ebony, rosewood, yellow and red cedar, mongoy and sapelli, among others. These woods have high resonance qualities and the requirements are both acoustical and mechanical. In this work, alternative composite materials have been manufactured to compare dynamic and psychoacoustic parameters with the commonly used woods. This comparison will allow to conclude the possibility of using these materials as substitutive of tonewoods.
Aspects regarding the experimental research of the stressors of the human pregnancy in case of road events
Authors: Thierheimer Alexandru , Alexandru Cătălin , Thierheimer Walter
Published: July 2018

In the present paper, it is presented a research facility whose purpose is to analyze the stresses that a pregnant woman’s abdomen is feeling during the kicking of the baby. It is able to measure, store and simultaneously process 16 parameters of the human body’s movement independently, but also in relation to the movement of the vehicle. The partial information that appears after the processing has finished on a numeric computer, a PC, will allow us to assume the way in which these occupants will behave in all the phases of a car accident: before, during, when coming out of it and after the collision, as well as to design new constructive measures to ensure that there is a non-lethal space within the occupant-interior elements-vehicle frame.
An improved model for the damped impact of composite materials applicable to wind turbine blades
Authors: Ciornei Florina-Carmen , Alaci Stelian , Siretean Sorinel-Toderas , Ciornei Mariana-Catalina
Published: July 2018

Composite materials are used in manufacturing a vast game of products, from usual objects, medical devices, aerospatial parts to military equipment. One of the features considered when a composite material is designed as target aims the energy dissipation with respect to the projectile. The paper presents an improved alternative of a model which is broadly used in the impact of projectile and composite target. The initial model has the weakness that does not present the hysteresis loop. The improvement of the model consists in including a nonlinear damper placed between the projectile and the target, the damping force being simultaneously proportional to the impact velocity and the elastic force. The new model has a hysteresis loop closed in the origin. The proposed model is applied for concrete situations and the results are presented in graphical manner.
Considerations on finding the rolling and spinning friction coefficients
Authors: Ciornei Florina-Carmen , Alaci Stelian , Siretean Sorinel-Toderas , Ciornei Mariana-Catalina , Dragoi Ioan-Bogdan , Lazăr Vlăduţ-Constantin
Published: July 2018

The complex motion from a point contact has as consequence the occurrence of a friction torsor within both spinning and rolling friction exist. Additionally, recent researches showed that the two friction moments, spinning and rolling torques, are not proportional to the normal force. Here, the power law dependency is accepted and therefore, besides the coefficients of spinning and rolling friction, the exponents from the relations friction torque-normal force should be first determined. The paper proposes as method for finding the four parameters the use of the inclined plane principle. The acceleration of a revolution body in descending motion on the inclined plane is found for four different values of the tilting angle and a system of four equations is obtained. The detailed procedure of finding the solutions of the system is presented in the present paper.
Considerations on the Right of Way as Cause of Road Accidents in Romania
Authors: Tarnu Lucian , Deac Cristian
Published: July 2018

While cars and road traffic are an essential component of modern human society, the accidents that may occur in traffic are one of the largest sources of deaths and injuries. A first important step towards reducing these road accidents is the identification of their main causes. In the the current paper, the authors analyse the main causes of road accidents in Romania and then discuss the conditions surrounding the accidents that had as cause the failure to properly grant right of way, taking into account both the national, regional (county-level) and local statistics.
Thermal degradation and stability of wood particle composites deployed as decorative components
Authors: Luca Motoc Dana , Ferrándiz Bou Santiago , Petru Pop Adrian
Published: July 2018

The contribution aims to design, deliver and debate on thermal degradation and thermal stability of several wood/PP composite materials. The wood polymer-based composites (n. WPCs) were manufactured through injection moulding by deploying various wood species under 10% and 40% weight fraction within the thermoplastic matrix. Thermal degradation of WPC specimens revealed similarities in characteristics, small discrepancies in the degradation temperatures but higher contents in the char formation, between 10% to 35% with wood content increase.
Contribution to experimental research of alternate fuel fumigation in single cylinder research diesel engine
Authors: Baldean Doru , Moldovanu Dan , Borzan Adela-Ioana
Published: July 2018

The advanced engineering scientific paper encompass the problem of supplying fuel in engine's combustion chamber in order to outline the influence of operating regime and fumigation method upon injection and fuel consumption. It develops a theoretical and experimental approach of the system components from Lombardini compression ignited engine test bench in relation with consumption and fumigation parameters. There was monitored engine speed, dynamic behaviour at some distinct operating loads. The opportunity for experimental research of the fumigation method in compression ignited engine resides in the state of the art technology accessible today for alternate fuel supply inside engine through this process. The results are analysed and discussed in detail. The fuel fumigation method is applicable to the presented engine and leads to some positive behaviour in operation.
Numerical analysis of the injection law influence on NOx emissions for a compression ignited engine
Authors: Moldovanu Dan , Mariaşiu Florin
Published: July 2018

Under the present conditions, where sustained efforts are being made by researchers and automotive industry developers to reduce toxic gases (and fitting them into existing pollution standards), research is required to define the possible directions to be followed for this purpose. One of these directions is also presented in this paper.The paper presents research done by using numerical analysis of the influence of the injection law on NOx emission on compression ignited engines. Instead of a normal injection law, a particular injection law was considered to reduce the effect of the cavity on the fuel flow inside the injector in order to achieve a more homogeneous fuel jet exit at the injector.It is noted that there are NOx emission reductions of up to 20% (obtained at 760 degrees CA) compared to the initial injection law, which confirms the need to continue studying the presented research topic. There are also differences in the formation and development of NOx emission zones within the combustion chamber (the volume and positioning of the contact surface towards the walls of the combustion chamber)..
Influence of swirl and tumble motion inside the combustion chamber of a compression ignited engine on vertices formation
Authors: Moldovanu Dan , Mariașiu Florin , Bagameri Norbert
Published: July 2018

In modern compression ignited engines, one of the key innovative directions is optimization of the burn process especially to reduce emissions. This optimization can be done by ensuring a better air-fuel mixture. To answer this problem, in the current paper, the authors analysed the vertices formation and velocity inside the combustion chamber in thirteen cases, by using numerical analysis (AVL FIRE Software), to generate pure tumble motion, pure swirl motion, no in-cylinder motion of the air, and other combinations on tumble and swirl motion. The cases that were chosen combine 0%, 50%, 70% and 100% tumble and swirl motion. The greatest velocity of the in-cylinder air motion was noted when a 100%tumble and 50% swirl motion was induced (77.2 m/s at 736 degrees CA), while the smallest velocity was noted at 100% swirl and 0% tumble (71.07 m/s at 736 degrees CA). Because of the different induced motions, the vertices that form inside the combustion chamber have a great influence on air-fuel mixture and implicitly on emissions.
Snow fence load on a house roof with tiles
Authors: Cătălin GavrilĂ Cornel , -Tiberiu LateŞ Mihai
Published: July 2018

Virtual modeling of mechanical structures, using computer performant software, is largely used in many fields. The paper presents some aspects regarding the loads on a snow fence mountig system, placed on a house roof with ceramic tiles. First, there are presented some general aspects of the snow fence types and mounting systems used. Then, there are Then there are presented the aspects about virtual modeling of these parts, using CATIA software. Also, there are presented some aspects about the Finite Element Analysis, respectively the results of this. In the paper final part, there are presented the conclusion.
Android application for ocular training in amblyopia
Authors: Mariana Barbu Daniela
Published: July 2018

This paper propose a mobile application that runs on the Android system, an app that aims to help persons with amblyopia by running recovery exercises in a very simple and convenient way, right on their own phone. It is very important to know that training the amblyopic eye even five minutes a day can result in vision acuity recovery, so it is recommended to use this application every day. Moreover, it is very easy to use, with an intriguing and intuitive menu with very simple commands. The subject with amblyopia can do the exercises anywhere, anytime. Another advantage is the accessibility of the application, which is used by the phone, can be used at any time of the day; the user has to give only five minutes of his daily activities.
Analysis of gait recognition system developed in NI LabVIEW
Authors: Salánki Dániel , Sarvajcz Kornél
Published: July 2018

Nowadays, the world of biometric identifiers is improving one of the most significantly in security technology. Within the biometric identifiers, the research group is working with the gait recognition speciality. The research group realized a complex gait recognition system in NI LabVIEW, that can detect more reference points simultaneously with a universal camera and can suit a function on the detected points. Moreover, the program can compare the functions of the reference curve with the functions of the actual curve and evaluate if the two gait images are the same or not. The program can save the actual gait data and reload them. The leg/foot ratio analyser program before the gait recognition is designed to improve accuracy. The research group tested the program in different ways: walking only in socks in shorts or in trousers, walking in slippers, walking in the opposite way. These facts have affected the gait recognition’s accuracy, the lowest False Rejection Rate (FRR) was in the case of walking in socks in shorts.
Designing a delta tripod based robot fused deposition modelling 3 dimensional printer using an open-source Arduino development platform
Authors: Templom Tamás , István Erdei Timotei , Molnár Zsolt , Shaw Edwin , Husi Géza
Published: July 2018

The pinnacle of 3D printing is its effect on the field of rapid prototyping. The major advantage comes from the fact that designers can quickly materialize a part or object, which then could be tested in practice, and can be effortlessly modified if needed. This obviously cuts the development expenses and time by a significant percent. Moreover, it’s possible to create complex and precise shapes with the technology, which would take more time and would be resource intensive if done by older methods, for example manual or automatic machining.
Redesigning of the gripping system on KUKA KR5 by utilizing 3 dimension printing technologies and Arduino
Authors: Varga Viktor , István Erdei Timotei , Husi Géza
Published: July 2018

During this short summary of the project, we’d like to go through all the steps of the project, from the very first planning stages, up to the 3D modelling, and finishing up with the actual printing itself. We’ve also had the chance to install our finished tool onto the KUKA KR5 itself, and evaluate the quality of our tool using sensors, measurement, and by analysing our Arduino code.
Homes of the Future
Authors: Kovács Bence , Tóth János
Published: July 2018

The industry is being revolutionised again. It is the fourth time, that is why this revolution is often called Fourth Industrial Revolution. One of the definitions of this process says that the aim is to digitalize the machines and resources and those should communicate with each other in the cyber-physical space via sensor networks and mobile communication. This automation process starts to appear in the households. People have the need to own fully automated houses and intelligent homes. In this article you can read about how a house can be intelligent.
Robust control system design for a brushed direct current motor using LabVIEW simulation loop
Authors: Khoury Wadee , Tamás Szemes Péter
Published: July 2018

This paper presents the design of a robust control system for a PMDC motor using LabVIEW software. At first, the mathematical equations of the motor were modelled and simulated. Then, a proportional integral controller (PI) was used as a speed controller, and to guarantee the robustness of the system against the disturbances, the PI parameters were tuned by applying a sensitivity analysis. Finally, a proportional gain (P) was used as a position controller to guide the system towards the desired angle. The simulation was performed using LabVIEW Simulation Loop, and the sensitivity analysis was carried using LabVIEW MathScript tool.
Withdrawn article: Digital photoplethysmograph
Authors: Sorin Pater , Pop Augustin-Gavril , Gheorghe Moldovan Ovidiu
Published: July 2018

This article has been withdrawn by the authors. Request approved by the editors and the publisher on August 2, 2018.
The influence of profile angle on forces distribution on silent chain transmissions
Authors: Velicu Radu , Jurj Lenard , Săulescu Radu
Published: July 2018

The aim of this paper is to define and to analyze the theoretical contact forces that appear in a sprocket - silent chain joint. The contact force between the links and the teeth flanks of the sprocket can be considered as a reaction to the axial force (tensioning force) transmitted throughout the pins. The centrifugal force is considered to be constant and the friction between the elements is not considered. This paper is presenting the steps to obtain the relationships for the forces from the sprocket-link contact depending on the tensioning force component between the links and the centrifugal force. These forces are computed in order to establish their distribution on links.
A brief overview of the evolution and trends in maintenance
Authors: Pămîntaş Eugen , veronica Banciu Felicia
Published: July 2018

From the mistakes of industrial past, from the needs of today's manufacturing industry, from the knowledge accumulations of theoreticians, researchers and practitioners in the field presented in scientifical papers and reviews, the future directions of R & D in the field of maintenance were outlined in this paper.
Comparative analysis for estimating production costs
Authors: Stoenoiu Carmen-Elena
Published: July 2018

The analysis of the cost of production is a complex problem, being very useful in the planning and control process as well as in production and sales. In this study, this was done using three methods: accounting analysis, high-low and regression analysis that allowed cost elements to be identified through a cost equation that can be used in planning and control analysis or in sales activity. At the same time, the evolution of the cost elements was achieved using two estimates used by the accounting method. The High-Low method allowed the determination of the minimum and maximum activity level at one year's level, which was then analyzed through the company's available activity range. The multivariate regression analysis determined the analysis of the obtained model, being linear, thus establishing the production line.
Cash conversion cycle and corporate performance: evidence from Romania
Authors: Cristea Ciprian , Cristea Maria
Published: July 2018

Cash conversion cycle is considered one of the most important measures of management effectiveness, especially the cash flow and liquidity management. This study examines the relationship between cash conversion cycle and corporate profitability for the non-financial companies, from several industries, listed on the Bucharest Stock Exchange for a period of fifteen years from 2002 to 2016. The findings from a cross sectional multiple regression analysis pointed out a negative relationship between cash conversion cycle and the performance of firms. Based on the results from this paper it has been concluded that managers can improve the profitability of their firms by decreasing the number of days in cash conversion cycle.
Challenges in Romanian technical higher education from the perspective of the european requirements for its modernization
Authors: Veronica Banciu Felicia , Pămîntaș Eugen
Published: July 2018

In today’s economically changing environment, higher education institutions faces many challenges regarding permanent adaptations to industry needs, inappropriate financing arrangements, the knowledge triangle of teaching, research and innovation, tailored approaches to learning for students, students centred education, reforms in the education system etc. The problem mentioned in European agenda for higher education modernization linked to the inconsistency between the knowledge and skills graduates gain from the educational process and those required by the economy and society remains one major problem, at least at this moment. In regard to this, the paper aim is to analyses the actual situation regarding the consequences of an admission without exam where the baccalaureate grade is taken into account, and as possible solutions to this major challenge are emphasised possible training methods appropriate to the presented situation, methods with a great emphasis on the practical side and the permanent emphasis of the theoretical background used. In this context, good anticipation and thoroughly prepared restructuring is needed, attention and unified efforts from specialists in education field, industry and whole higher education system in order to face actual situation and be prepared for challenges that this problems will rise in the future.
Examination of fiscal expenditures on education and research as human capital investments
Authors: Kiss Judit T.
Published: July 2018

The economic role of knowledge, education and research as investments in individuals‘ human capital has become a real focus of attention among researchers and policy makers in Europe over the last few decades. Individuals‘ high level skills and the versatile knowledge acquired in a formal or informal educational context have become extremely important factors in evolving knowledge-based economies. In this article we primarily analyze fiscal expenditures on education, and on research and development among OECD countries, and examine the change over time of state expenditures on education.
New directions in the development of neuromarketing and behavioral economics
Authors: Plakhin Andrey , Semenets Igor , Ogorodnikova Ekaterina , Khudanina Maria
Published: July 2018

The article substantiates the relevance of neuromarketing studies based on an understanding of the basic functional mechanisms of the consumer's nervous system. Such studies include high-precision hardware testing of unconscious human responses to audio-visual or any other stimulus. Neuromarketing is considered as a symbiosis of separate disciplines: psychology and psychophysiology, traditional marketing and economics, neurobiology, econometrics, etc. In the work comparison with traditional marketing researches on such parameters as: objectivity of an estimation of results received during researches is made; also effectiveness of application in practices was investigated; sample for the study is selected; cost of research and interpretation of results are determined. The foreign experience of using neuromarketing technologies and behavioural economics on the example of such organizations as Singapore Airlines, Nike, Starbucks, automotive companies, universities, etc. was studied. Comparison with the Russian level of development of innovative marketing is made. Recommendations are given on the introduction of neuromarketing in the Russian automotive industry using the example of AvtoVAZ. The efficiency and value of carrying out neuromarketing research in the enterprise and the possible economic effect are calculated. The main tasks of modern higher education are marked and innovations in the learning process are proposed.