Tomas Bata University in Zlín
Institutional repository of Tomas Bata University LibraryNot a member yet
10673 research outputs found
Sort by
Bacterial cellulose/graphene oxide/hydroxyapatite biocomposite: A scaffold from sustainable sources for bone tissue engineering
Full text linkBone tissue engineering demands advanced biomaterials with tailored properties. In this regard, composite scaffolds offer a strategy to integrate the desired functionalities. These scaffolds are expected to provide sufficient cellular activities while maintaining the required strength necessary for the bone repair for which they are intended. Hence, attempts to obtain efficient composites are growing. However, in most cases, the conventional production methods of scaffolds are energy-intensive and leave an impact on the environment. This work aims to develop a biocomposite scaffold integrating bacterial cellulose (BC), hydroxyapatite (HAp), and graphene oxide (GO), designated as “BC/HAp/GO”. All components are sourced primarily from agricultural and food waste as alternative means. BC, known for its biocompatibility, fine fiber network, and high porosity, serves as an ideal scaffold material. HAp, a naturally occurring bone component, contributes osteoconductive properties, while GO provides mechanical strength and biofunctionalization capabilities. The biomaterials were analyzed and characterized using a scanning electron microscope, a X-ray diffractometer, and a Fourier transform infrared spectrometer. The produced biocomposite scaffolds were tested for thermal stability, mechanical strength, and biocompatibility. The results showed a nanofibrous, porous network of BC, highly crystalline HAp particles, and well-oxygenated GO flakes with slight structural deformities. The synthesized biocomposite demonstrated promising characteristics, such as increased tensile strength due to added GO particles and higher bioactivity through the introduction of HAp. These inexpensively synthesized materials, marked by suitable surface morphology and cell adhesion properties, open potential applications in bone repair and regeneration.Tomas Bata University in Zlín, TBU; Ministerstvo Školství, Mládeže a Tělovýchovy, MŠMT, (RP/CPS/2024-28/005, IGA/CPS/2023/005, IGA/CPS/2024/005); Ministerstvo Školství, Mládeže a Tělovýchovy, MŠMTTomas Bata University in Zl?n [RP/CPS/2024-28/005]; Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports of the Czech Republic [IGA/CPS/2023/005, IGA/CPS/2024/005]; Internal Grant Agency (IGA) project; Center of Polymer Systems at the Tomas Bata University in Zlin, Czech Republic [MSMT-44726/2013]; Ministry of Education, Youth, and Sport
Influence of 3D printing conditions on physical-mechanical properties of polymer materials
Full text linkThe popularity of 3D printing technology is rapidly increasing worldwide. It can be applied to metals, ceramics, composites, hybrids, and polymers. Three-dimensional printing has the potential to replace conventional manufacturing technologies because it is cost effective and environmentally friendly. This paper focuses on the influence of 3D printing conditions on the physical and mechanical properties of polylactic acid (PLA), poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), and poly(ethylene terephthalate glycol-modified) (PETG) materials produced using Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) technology. The impact of nozzle diameter, layer height, and printing temperature on the mechanical (i.e., bending stiffness and vibration damping) and physical (i.e., sound absorption and light transmission) properties of the studied polymer materials was investigated. It can be concluded that 3D printing conditions significantly influenced the structure and surface shape of the 3D-printed polymer samples and, consequently, their physical and mechanical properties. Therefore, it is essential to consider the type of filament used and the 3D printing conditions for specific 3D-printed material applications.Jan Amos Komensky Operational Program - European Union [CZ.02.01.01/00/22_008/0004631]; State budget of the Czech Republi
Identyfikacja i ocena angielskich akcentów przez słuchaczy posługujących się pokrewnymi językami ojczystymi
No full textThis study explores the identification and evaluation of English accents by non-native English speakers, specifically Czech and Slovak undergraduate students majoring in English as a Foreign Language (EFL). The research aims to determine how these students perceive and rate ten English accents, including native and non-native varieties. Using questionnaires, the study examines the correlation between the ability to identify the speakers’ native language and the evaluation of their English pronunciation quality. The findings reveal that Czech and Slovak students generally share similar evaluations of English accents, with significant differences primarily in identifying and evaluating accents related to their native languages. This research contributes to understanding how related linguistic backgrounds influence the perception and judgment of English accents, providing insights for language teaching and accent training in EFL contexts
Artificial intelligence-driven prediction revealed CFTR associated with therapy outcome of breast cancer: A feasibility study
Full text linkIntroduction: In silico tools capable of predicting the functional consequences of genomic differences between individuals, many of which are AI-driven, have been the most effective over the past two decades for nonsynonymous single nucleotide variants (nsSNVs). When appropriately selected for the purpose of the study, a high predictive performance can be expected. In this feasibility study, we investigate the distribution of nsSNVs with an allele frequency below 5%. To classify the putative functional consequence, a tier-based filtration led by AI-driven predictors and scoring system was implemented to the overall decision-making process, resulting in a list of prioritised genes. Methods: The study has been conducted on breast cancer patients of homogeneous ethnicity. Germline rare variants have been sequenced in genes that influence pharmacokinetic parameters of anticancer drugs or molecular signalling pathways in cancer. After AI-driven functional pathogenicity classification and data mining in pharmacogenomic (PGx) databases, variants were collapsed to the gene level and ranked according to their putative deleterious role. Results: In breast cancer patients, seven of the twelve genes prioritised based on the predictions were found to be associated with response to oncotherapy, histological grade, and tumour subtype. Most importantly, we showed that the group of patients with at least one rare nsSNVs in cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) had significantly reduced disease-free (log rank, p = 0.002) and overall survival (log rank, p = 0.006). Conclusion: AI-driven in silico analysis with PGx data mining provided an effective approach navigating for functional consequences across germline genetic background, which can be easily integrated into the overall decision-making process for future studies. The study revealed a statistically significant association with numerous clinicopathological parameters, including treatment response. Our study indicates that CFTR may be involved in the processes influencing the effectiveness of oncotherapy or in the malignant progression of the disease itself.National Center for Medical Genomics, (LM2015091, CZ.02.1.01/0.0/0.0/16_013/0001634); Agentura Pro Zdravotnický Výzkum České Republiky, AZV ČR, (NV22-08-00281); Agentura Pro Zdravotnický Výzkum České Republiky, AZV ČRCzech Health Research Council [NV22-08-00281
Excellent electromagnetic interference shielding of multi-layered thermoplastic poly-urethane nanocomposites with CoFe2O4 nanoparticles and graphite
No full textThis work presents the design and development of multi-layered polymer-based nanocomposites that effectively block electromagnetic (EM) radiation by incorporating magnetic CoFe2O4 nanoparticles (NPs) and conductive graphite on a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) matrix. The sonochemical method was employed to produce CoFe2O4 NPs with a high degree of purity. The melt mixing process followed by compression molding was utilized to generate individual layers of TPU containing CoFe2O4 NPs (F-TPU) and graphite (G-TPU) at a thickness of around 0.8 mm. Further, three mono-layers of either F-TPU or G-TPU were stacked in an identical and alternating fashion to create TPU-based multi-layered nanocomposites F/F/F, G/G/G, F/G/F, and G/F/G, respectively. The electromagnetic interference (EMI) total shielding effectiveness (SET) in the X-band frequency range of 8.2–12.4 GHz was investigated and observed to be 3.7 dB, 33.8 dB, 23.9 dB, and 54.0 dB for F/F/F, G/G/G, F/G/F, and G/F/G, respectively. This research offers a guide for engineers looking to create superior EMI shielding materials, which have potential uses in radar security and information communications.Tomas Bata University in Zlín, TBU; Centre of Polymer Systems; Ministry of Education, Youth, and Sports of the Czech Republic-DKRVO, (RP/CPS/2024–28/007); Internal Grant Agency, (IGA/CPS/2024/002)Ministry of Education, Youth, and Sports of the Czech Republic-DKRVO [RP/CPS/2024-28/007]; Internal Grant Agency [IGA/CPS/2024/002
Using tanned leather waste to derive biochars for supercapacitor electrodes in various electrolytes
No full textChromium-tanned pigskin leather was carbonized in three ways: (1) pyrolysis in an inert atmosphere at 800 °C, (2) pre-carbonization at 500 °C followed by the activation with KOH at 800 °C, and (3) direct activation with excess KOH at 800 °C. The yield of biochars was comparable, 24–28 wt.%. The elemental composition of derived biochars and the content of inorganic elements in ash were determined, and the predominance of chromium and iron was discussed. The changes in the molecular structure after carbonization were assessed with the help of FTIR and Raman spectra. The KOH activation increased specific surface area and porosity but had minimal impact on conductivity. The electric conductivity of powders was determined as a function of applied pressure, achieving a value of approximately 1 S cm−1 at 10 MPa. The electrochemical performance was evaluated using aqueous electrolytes (1 M Na2SO4 and 6 M KOH), as well as an organic electrolyte (1 M tetraethylammonium tetrafluoroborate in acetonitrile, TEABF4/ACN). The highest specific capacitance achieved was 187.7 F g−1 in 6 M KOH using the three-electrode system. Biochar was also tested in a symmetrical supercapacitor, achieving a specific capacitance of 150.9 F g−1 in 6 M KOH, and maintaining 95% capacitance after 5000 charge/discharge cycles. The supercapacitor in 6 M KOH showed the highest power density of 10.5 kW kg−1, whereas the one in 1 M TEABF4/ACN demonstrated the highest energy density of 21.3 Wh kg−1.Ministerstvo Školství, Mládeže a Tělovýchovy, MŠMT, (RP/CPS/2024–28/005, RP/2024/UNI/001, ENREGAT LM2023056); Ministerstvo Školství, Mládeže a Tělovýchovy, MŠMTMinistry of Education, Youth and Sports of the Czech Republic: DKRVO [RP/CPS/2024-28/005, RP/2024/UNI/001]; Large Research Infrastructure ENREGAT [LM2023056
Comparing self-regulation strategies among adult learners from Poland, Serbia, Slovakia, and the Czech Republic
Full text linkAn active and constructive process whereby individuals possess the ability to develop, implement, and flexibly maintain planned behavior in order to achieve a desired achievement goal is referred to as self-regulation. The aim of the present study is to examine the factorial structure and psychometric properties of the Self-Regulation Questionnaire, validated in the Czech educational context (SRQ-CZ). The other target is to identify any usage of self-regulation strategies which may differ as nationality, gender, age, education, and internal motivation to learn come into play. A total of 1,711 adult learners from Poland, Serbia, Slovakia, and the Czech Republic who were enrolled in a formal secondary or higher education system pursuing professions in the field of humanities, social and health care sciences participated in this study. A measurement-invariant four-factor model was obtained across all countries (min. CFI, TLI = 0.918, and 0.902, max. RMSEA = 0.059; ω between 0.625 and 0.838, and Cronbach’s α between 0.622 and 0.837), including the Impulse Control, Goal Orientation, Self-Direction, and Decision Making subscales. Generally, the study confirmed a gradual increase in scores that measure positive self-regulatory qualities (Goal Orientation and Decision Making) and a decrease in unfavorable self-regulatory qualities (Impulse Control and Self-Direction) with higher age, education, and motivation, with no gender differences reported within countries. Moreover, scores on Goal Orientation and Decision Making dominated between countries. In conclusion, the SRQ-CZ demonstrated its suitability for cross-national comparisons, and personal characteristics appear to be important factors that distinguish those with high and low self-regulation
Analysis of natural lighting condition for the digitization of artwork in an art gallery interior
No full textThe paper discusses the analysis of natural lighting conditions for digitizing art. The emphasis is on a realistic 3D digital reproduction of a work of art in natural lighting conditions in the interior of an art gallery. The art object is scanned and digitized in two natural lighting conditions. The photogrammetry method was used for a realistic 3D reconstruction of the artwork. This experiment aims to analyze the influence of lighting conditions on the quality of 3D reproduction of an art object concerning image processing and color reproduction. In this study, no accessories were used to increase the quality of the captured image, such as reflective and diffusive plates or lights to illuminate the art object. The art object was scanned and digitized in two natural lighting conditions. This study aims to analyze the influence of actual lighting conditions on the quality of a realistic digital 3D reproduction of a work of art.International Grand Agency of Tomas Bata University in Zlin, (IGA/CebiaTech/2024/004
Estimating function points of development project in IoT systems case study
No full textFunction point analysis (FPA) is a commonly used approach for measuring software size and evaluating software functionality from the end user's perspective, usually based on a requirements specification. This paper explores a methodology for estimating function points in development projects using a structured model with the data flow diagram based on the Internet of Things (IoT) system specifications. The motivation for this research stems from the increasing development of IoT systems that require quantification of their size and effort. However, IoT systems pose a particular challenge as they contain hardware components, distinguishing them from traditional software solutions. To validate the methodology, a case study was conducted on the IoT infrastructure of a hydroponic farm in the Philippines to demonstrate the applicability and effectiveness of the approach for IoT systems.Tomas Bata University in Zlin, Faculty of Applied Informatics, (RVO/FAI/2021/002, IGA/ CebiaTech/2022/001
The phenomenon of hope while dealing with oncology disease
No full textBackground/Aim: Hope gives meaning to life in challenging situations, which certainly include oncological diseases. The aim of the research was to find out the importance of hope in oncology patients.
Methods: A qualitative methodology was used for the researchA. It was a narrative study employing the technique of semi-structured interviews . Six respondents, patients with oncological diseases aged over 40, participated, married/living with a partner .
Results: At least three of the five phases of response to K & uuml;bler-Ross oncological diagnosis were identified in the participants. Among the participants, material needs were changed to spiritualA. For all the participants, the greatest support in their dealing with the illness was the familyA. Women, although married, did not mention the husband as support, but always the person of the female gender- mother or daughter, while men mentioned their wivesA. In general, all the participants maintained hope of survival, however, the women were more optimisticA. They stated that they believed in themselves ("that they could cope with this situation"), their loved ones and experts .
Conclusion: Sustaining hope is part of the communication between health professionals and patients that can maintain positive feelings, goals and beliefs of patients and their families for their well-being . The results of the research for this article may contribute to improving health care, psychological and spiritual care, care for patients in hospice care and palliative care focused on sensitive topics