bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Novel Developments in Advanced Materials Fields: Porous and Non-Porous Biomaterials Used in Regenerative Medicine and Tissue Engineering
Authors: Popescu Ileana Nicoleta , Poinescu Aurora Anca , Ungureanu Dan Nicolae , Picu Adrian 
Published: April 2023

Abstract
In this brief review, porous and non-porous biomaterials used as scaffolds in regenerative medicine and tissue engineering and new innovative techniques to obtain biomaterials were discussed. Various methods have been presented to obtain advanced materials used as scaffolds, such as (i) 3D printed biomineral composites obtained with bacteria-loaded ink (bactoInk), (ii) the use of vegetable waste, such as rice husks, parsley, spinach or cocoa in the development of bioplastics, (iii) the use of natural biological materials of animal origin (such as bovine bones, corals, snail shells or eggshells) from waste, or (iv) the creation of new biomaterials that can reduce or combat the infection of scaffolds after implantation.
The Effect of Some Process Parameters in the Synthesis of Ceramics Based on Calcium and Phosphorus
Authors: Ungureanu Dan Nicolae , Avram Daniela , Angelescu Nicolae , Catangiu Adrian , Popescu Ileana Nicoleta , Anghelina Violeta Florina 
Published: April 2023

Abstract
In this paper was synthesized a bioceramic material based on calcium and phosphorus. Also, the effect of synthesis parameters on the structure and properties of the obtained powders has been studied. In this sense, the stirring speed and the aging time of the precipitates, in the case of some hydroxyapatite powders, are studied. The results show products with the desired characteristics, in terms of structure and composition of analyzed powders.
Theoretical and Experimental Research on the Evolution of the Friction Coefficient in Different Lubrication Conditions in the Case of Friction Couples with Sliding Motion
Authors: Petre Ivona Camelia , Stoian Elena Valentina , Enescu Maria Cristiana 
Published: April 2023

Abstract
In recent decades, the interest of researchers and engineers in obtaining competitive materials is increasing. The effects of friction on materials are quite difficult to explain due to the micro and macroscopic interactions of the surfaces of the friction couple, which slide over each other. The friction and wear behavior of sliding surfaces can be considered important design criteria.
The fact that for a kinematic coupling with sliding motion, a material with a higher hardness is used in most cases in combination with a material with a lower hardness, there is the possibility of abrasion wear and local plastic deformations.
The paper proposes in analytical model for calculating the coefficient of friction when a rigid conical penetrator passes over a flat surface with a lower hardness and establishing the response mode of the material of the flat surface. The penetration method corresponds to the deformation produced by asperities in practice. The proposed theoretical model will be experimentally validated on a tribological stand made in this sense. Comparing the experimental results with the theoretical ones confirms the veracity of the model and also corresponds to many of the experimental results obtained in specialized works.
Comparative, Analytical and Virtual Study of the Flow Parameters of the Bearing Cement-Air Mixture, in a Pipeline Route
Authors: Negrea Alexis Daniel , Popa Ion Florin , Despa Veronica 
Published: April 2023

Abstract
The method of transporting cement with the help of an air jet through pipes is very practical and reliable. However, improper dimensioning of the constructive and functional parameters can lead to improper functioning, to cement agglomerations in certain areas of the route configuration. In order to be able to know the problem areas and geometries, in this paper a comparative, analytical and virtual study of cement transport through a pipeline route, known as geometry and dimensions, was made. Analytical calculation showed that a floating speed of cement particles of 23.45 m/s, with an air flow rate of 0.155 m3/s, is needed to be able to transport a quantity of 40 t/h (11.11 kg/s) of cement. The virtual study done in Flow Simulation showed the behavior of cement particles during transport. The virtual behavior is similar to the real one, with cement particles tending to settle in bends and on long stretches of horizontal pipes. The behavior of the air-cement mixture in the separation cyclone is well exemplified by the virtual simulation. The separation of those two components is well represented and conforms to the real phenomenon.
COVID-19 Control: Challenges and Responses of Muslims in Tanzania
Authors: Urassa Hija Alfani 
Published: April 2023

Abstract
COVID-19 in Tanzania was both a health and religious puzzle. The government insisted all citizens regardless of their religious affiliations to join hands in fighting the disease through prayers and by adherence to the health measures. Muslims in Tanzania complied with the disease control measures instituted by the government. These measures in turn affected their prayers and fasting rituals. In this context, Muslims turned to religious texts and scholarly interpretations to seek for guidance and clarification (fatwa) on how to practice Islam under COVID-19 situation. Consequently, this shaped Muslims’ perceptions and responses towards the pandemic. This article analyses challenges of COVID-19 to Muslim rituals and the role of religion in shaping their responses during the first four months of the onset of COVID-19 in Tanzania. The article uses online publications, religious teaching provided through social media, interviews and personal observation in Dar es Salaam and Kilimanjaro regions. The article argues that the role played by Islamic religion in understanding COVID-19 pandemic justifies the importance of involving faith-based communities in solving health related problems.
The “Nets and Anchors” on the Indian Community in Mwanza City (Tanzania): Ethnographic Challenges and Encounters
Authors: Sumara Kerindo Abeid 
Published: April 2023

Abstract
The use of “nets and anchors” framework requires a researcher to get a broad perspective of life in the case-study area through everyday observations and conversations with its residents before attempting an in-depth perspective of life as it is narrated by the key respondents of community groups. This framework was adopted in a study conducted among the Indians living in Mwanza City, Tanzania during the period of COVID-19 pandemic. This paper discusses the challenges encountered when conducting ethnographic research on the socio-cultural practices of Indians in Mwanza. The paper points out that COVID-19 pandemic among other factors hindered the process of collecting data through participant observation and interviews on the Indian community in Mwanza City.
Failure of Ujamaa in Modernising Wataturu Community in Igunga from the Early 1970s to the the Mid-1980s
Authors: Ayo Stephano Lazaro 
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Tanzania’s Rural Development Policy which encompassed, among other things, establishment of well-planned Ujamaa villages across the country, was a nation-wide agenda implemented immediately after the Arusha Declaration of 1967. The Arusha declaration marked the actual beginning of Ujamaa, a socio-economic policy based on egalitarian principles of traditional African societies practiced in Tanzania from 1967 to the mid-1980s. Contrary to government’s intentions, the Wataturu negatively responded to this programme since it conflicted with their socio-cultural set-up. Scholarships on this subject converge on the failure and success of the programme, its ecological impact as well as land disputes and social unrest resulting from the implementation of the policy. Yet, little is known about the extent to which the socio-cultural life, perceptions, beliefs, and cattle economy determined the responses, participation and mobilization among the Wataturu (brediga) - Datooga of Igunga. This paper exploits ethno-historical accounts from Igunga district and archival materials collected as part of a PhD project to fill this gap. The paper establishes that modernisation through the resettlement scheme and establishment of Ujamaa villages were never a reality for the Wataturu who uphold their traditional socio-cultural set-up with great pride.
The metabolic mechanism of growth inhibition by co-culture of Bacteroides xylanisolvens Y-11 and Bifidobacterium longum y37
Authors: Tian Lei , Luo Dongmei , Li Rui , Jiao Pengrui , Zhou Zhiwei , Marks Robert S. , Sun Qun 
Published: April 2023

Abstract

Bacteroides xylanisolvens Y-11 and Bifidobacterium longum y37 isolated from human gut were found to inhibit each other's growth after co-culturing in previous studies. To further reveal the potential mechanism of mutual inhibition between them, ultra performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) was used to investigate the metabolic changes of the strains after monoculture and co-culture, and the key differential metabolites were subject to the validation. The results showed that the types and amounts of metabolites were significantly changed during co-culture, with hydrocarbons and their derivatives, organic acids and esters being the main differential metabolites, which posed a greater influence on the metabolism of B. xylanisolvens Y-11 than on B. longumy y37. Further studies suggest that cycloserine and succinic acid may be the main metabolites that inhibit the growth of both strains, and the decrease of pH may be the main reason for succinic acid to inhibit the growth of the two strains. Moreover, B. longum y37 played a dominant role in the co-culture and its metabolites influenced the growth of B. xylanisolvens Y-11 to a greater extent. This study provides a new perspective for further understanding of the interaction between intestinal microbes and the influence of intestinal microecology on the occurrence and development of diseases.
Active Transport and the Journey to Work in Northern Ireland: A Longitudinal Perspective 1991-2011
Authors: Shuttleworth Ian , Feehan Claire 
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Policy interventions to encourage the use of healthy and sustainable modes of travel to work (such as walking and cycling) have encountered varying levels of success. In areas such as Northern Ireland, and cities such as Belfast, the car remains the dominant mode for journeys to and from work. This paper explores why this is the case by examining the individual, household, and geographical factors that govern (a) changing between one census and another to walking or cycling from other transport modes; (b) changing from walking or cycling; and continuing to walk or cycle. The analysis is undertaken using the Northern Ireland Longitudinal Study (NILS), a 28% random sample of the population. The results show that walking or cycling is associated with lower-status jobs, urban locations, with no clear association with better self-reported health. In contrast, car commuting is associated with better education, health, and higher labour market status. The analysis shows that policies to encourage the use of more sustainable and less polluting transport face formidable barriers from status perceptions, time budgets, and the geographical contexts of Northern Ireland and Belfast.
Planning for Climate–Benign Cities – Design of a Mind Map for Smart Energy Transition
Authors: Kourtit Karima , Nijkamp Peter , Scholten Henk 
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Local energy transition initiatives – as part of a broader climate-benign and sustainability policy – have become a focal point of future-oriented resource and environmental strategies. Place-based energy conversion however, has turned out to be a very complicated task, from both a governance and research perspective. The present study seeks to sketch out the contours of local sustainable energy planning, with a particular emphasis on (i) practical data and evidence-based information requirements, (ii) the involvement and engagement of citizens and stakeholders, and (iii) the great research potential provided by digital information technology. To that end, a comprehensive mind map for energy transition is depicted, inspired by first experiments in the city of Rotterdam.
How Does Quality of Life (QOL) Affect Attractiveness of Cities and Internal Migration in Turkey?
Authors: Özer İsmet Selçuk , Türk Umut 
Published: April 2023

Abstract
The management of internal flows can bring significant benefits to a country in balancing the opportunities between regions or cities. To tackle unequal access to opportunities, the factors that induce internal migration should be understood. This study examines a set of pull and push factors for internal migration by spatial econometric analysis and GIS applications. We find that when the accessibility of amenities increases, the city becomes more attractive and preferable for migrants. In addition, socioeconomic factors also play a significant role in the decision-making process of migrants. In this study, we used a panel dataset that includes socioeconomic and contextual data such as distances to the amenities for each Turkish city in the years between 2012 and 2021. The results show that, in Turkey, internal migration flows from the East to the West, where opportunities are better. Finally, the human capital level of migrants can cause a variety of thoughts about factors, and it can change the order of significance of the variables for people who have a different level of human capital such as education level. Based on the findings, the paper offers several policies suggestions for ensuring a balanced migration in Turkey.
Exploring Organic Food Purchase Behaviors of Gen Z: An Application of TPB and MOA Model in a Transition Country
Authors: Nguyen Phuong Mai , Vo Nam D. 
Published: April 2023

Abstract
This article investigates the predictors of purchase behavior of the generation Z (Gen Z) in the Vietnamese organic food sector. We proposed a research model by extending the theory of planned behavior (TPB) with the motivation–opportunity–ability (MOA) framework to address the gap between purchase intention and behavior in the organic food market. Data from a self-administered online survey with 426 respondents living in the three biggest cities of Vietnam were analyzed in SmartPLS software to test proposed hypotheses. Our findings show that trust is the most crucial factor affecting the purchase behavior of Gen Z in the Vietnamese organic food sector. Notably, perceived barriers (PB) were found to positively influence purchase behavior. The present study suggests the organic food producers and suppliers to change their marketing strategies and policies in response to the demanding Vietnamese Gen Z.
Efficiency and Tolerability of Interferon Free Therapy - Positive Impact on the Quality of Life of Patients with Chronic Viral Hepatitis C
Authors: Stavar Angelica Nela , Rugină Sorin , Adam Tatiana 
Published: April 2023

Abstract

Introduction. The infection with hepatitis C (HCV) is a major cause of chronic liver diseases, with approximately 71,000.000 chronically infected persons worldwide.

Material and methods. This study includes the results of the evaluation of the quality of life of patients with chronic hepatic diseases, on a group of 122 patients divided into two lots. The study period was January 2020 - december 2022. Our aim was to study the impact of the antiviral therapy on the patients quality of life before and after the interferon free antiviral therapy, as well as to study the quality of life of the patients with chronic viral hepatitis C who did not receive interferon free antiviral therapy because they did not meet the eligibility criteria, but accepted to participate in the study.

Results. Following the analysis and the interpretation of the questionnaire used, we found that the patients who did not receive the treatment presented more frequently a psychosocial unbalance (social activities), psychoemotional and loss of interest for the sexual activity. In the case of patients treated with interferon free regimens we found an improvement of the quality of the whole duration of the therapy, this being correlated, especially, with drug interaction that were limited or easily manageable and had minimal adverse effects, increasing psychoemotional, balance, and the sexual activity was not influenced.

Conclusions. The results of our study indicate that the patients who were treated with the antiviral interferon free therapy become aware the fact that the problems related to the chronic hepatic disease are solvable, which influences the quality of life in a positive way.
Liver Steatosis and its Implications in Patients with Chronic Viral Hepatitis C
Authors: Gavril Oana Irina , Esanu Irina Mihaela , Gavrilescu Otilia , Popa Raluca , Cobzeanu Maria Luiza , Tatarciuc Diana , Vasilcu Teodor , Drugescu Andrei , Gavril Radu Sebastian , Mitu Florin 
Published: April 2023

Abstract

Introduction. Hepatic steatosis represents a common pathological feature in patients with chronic viral C infection and can be independently associated with obesity, increased alcohol consumption, type 2 diabetes, and hyperlipidemia. These factors can contribute to the development of hepatic steatosis in patients with chronic HCV (Hepatitis C virus) infection.

Materials and methods. 64 patients who underwent treatment with oral antivirals were included and evaluated through non-invasive methods for the degree of hepatic steatosis.

Results. After at least 3 months of sustained viral response, all patients with advanced hepatic steatosis were categorized into lower classes in the Steatotest evaluation.

Conclusion. This study highlights the importance of direct acting antiviral (DAA) treatment in the medical care of patients with chronic viral C infection and hepatic steatosis. Thirty years after the discovery of the hepatitis C virus, treatment with oral antivirals revolutionizes the medical care of patients with this chronic infection.
The Impact of Technical Skills and Education on Exacerbations, Adherence to Treatment and the Choice of Inhaler Device in Patients with COPD
Authors: Bivolaru Sorin , Constantin Ancuţa 
Published: April 2023

Abstract

Introduction. The largest challenge for patients with COPD is the correct use of inhaler devices. In COPD, inhalation therapy has a key role in symptom control, reducing the exacerbation rate, hospitalization and improving the quality of life. Choosing the active substance(s) administered by inhaler devices is an easy task because of the Gold guideline recommendations, but, when it comes to choosing the inhaler device, it is much more difficult to get recommendations.

Methods. Our analysis included 200 subjects divided into two groups and its objective was the identification of some mechanisms that connect education, exacerbation and adherence to treatment, placed in the context of measuring technical skills and patients` preference for a particular inhaler device. All subjects included in the analysis were subjected to a technical skills test that included a set of 10 questions with a 30-minute solving time. The subjects in the working group were put in the position of deciding factor for the choice of an inhaler device, and implicitly for the treatment they would follow during monitoring.

Results. In both groups, the lowest treatment dropout rate at T12 was recorded among those with higher levels of education, while those with poor education levels recorded very high dropout rates. In both groups we noticed that, as the level of education increased, technical skills were also increasingly better. Both in the control group and in the working group, dropout subjects at T12 had significantly lower technical skills compared to subjects who did not drop out. The level of technical skills was significantly lower in both groups in subjects with exacerbations. Statistical analysis proved the relationship between the low level of technical skills and exacerbation. The subjects with lower technical skills proved to be more prone to dropout of inhaler therapy as well. The proportion of subjects with exacerbations in the control group was significantly higher than the proportion of those with exacerbations in the work group. The proportion of subjects with exacerbations in the control group was significantly higher than the proportion of those with exacerbations in the work group.

Conclusions. The authors consider that the involvement of the patient in choosing the inhaler device had a positive impact on disease control and reducing the rate of exacerbations.
Pulmonary TB Faces in the New Context of Drug Users
Authors: Mihălţan Florin , Constantin Ancuţa , Ulmeanu Ruxandra 
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Tuberculosis has taken on a new face in the context of emergent drug use. The combination of conditions such as HIV infection, hepatitis B or C, arising from the use of injectable drugs create serious problems in hospitals. In this new context, the authors analyze epidemiological aspects, predisposing factors, clinical expressions and therapeutic solutions for these cases, but also the programs that must be adopted to allow the control of this new worldwide challenge.
Prognosis Factors in Patients with Copd and Atrial Fibrillation – Mini Review
Authors: Moales Elena-Andreea , Zota Ioana Mădălina , Tribus Laura Carina , Cozma Corina Dima , Mitu Florin 
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and atrial fibrillation (AF) are common pathologies in the elderly patient. The simultaneous occurrence of the two conditions influences the quality of life and increases the rate of exacerbations. About two-thirds of patients with atrial fibrillation have dyspnea. Severe dyspnea in the patient with COPD and AF can be difficult to manage, suggesting an exacerbation of the disease, the onset of atrial fibrillation or even a symptom of associated comorbidities, the most common of which being heart failure.
The risk of developing AF in COPD increases with the severity of airflow obstruction. Factors such as smoking, aging, dyslipidemia, the presence of diabetes, hypertension or heart failure influence the prognosis of patients with COPD and AF. Furthermore, oxidative stress, hypoxia, systemic inflammation or immunological changes decrease the survival rate and may favor the recurrence of AF. In the evolution of concomitant COPD- FA cases, proinflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), monocyte chemotactic protein (MCP-1), interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-8 (IL- 8) intervene.
This paper aims at analyzing data related to the factors that would influence the prognosis of patients with COPD and AF.
Efficient Heat Recovery from Hydrogen and Natural Gas Blend Combustion Products
Authors: Rusovs D. , Jansons L. , Zeltins N. , Geipele I. 
Published: April 2023

Abstract
The introduction of hydrogen and natural gas blends in existing gas transportation and distribution networks would ensure faster and more efficient decarbonization of energy sector, but, at the same time, this process would request solution of many practical and technical problems. This paper explores thermodynamics of hydrogen and natural gas blend combustion products and estimates the amount of condensate and latent energy recovery from flue gas as a function of condensing temperature. The efficient energy recovery depends on network return temperature, and it is possible to overcome this limitation by implementation of heat pump for extraction of low temperature heat from flue gases. The case study considers operation of heat only boiler and flue gas condenser with integrated cascade of heat pumps, which consist of absorption lithium bromide-water chiller (in heat pump mode) and vapour compression unit. Presented results of energy recovery hence are limited by data collected from the natural gas combustion for district heating network energy supply. However, previous thermodynamic consideration allows extending the obtained results for case of hydrogen and natural gas blend combustion. A proof of concept of heat recovery by combination of flue gas condenser supported by a cascade of heat pumps demonstrates the efficiency in case of hydrogen and natural gas blend combustion.