Tomas Bata University in Zlín
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Intellectual model for analyzing and anaging patient trust in medical staff of primary healthcare institutions
In the work, research was conducted on the development of an intellectual analysis model for determining the level of trust of patients in the medical staff of a primary medicine institution, for effective strategy and management on the example of the countries of the Visegrad Group (Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, Slovakia). The research uses modern knowledge collection and presentation methods, applied in fuzzy set theory, system analysis, and expert evaluation. The main value of the model lies in the fact that it examines the question of evaluating the effectiveness of the management of primary medicine medical institutions, taking into account the level of trust of patients in the medical staff. The model provides an opportunity to comprehensively analyze the region and develop recommendations for state authorities to create strategies for improving the quality of medical medicine in outpatient facilities. At the level of primary medicine institutions, managers should develop strategies to create conditions in which patients' trust in medical personnel will grow. The developed model was verified and tested on real data of primary medicine patients in the countries of the Visegrad Group. An example of evaluation on fragments of data in four regions is illustrated
Biogenic amines in white brined cheeses
In the current study, a comprehensive analysis of biogenic amines in white brined cheeses was conducted. BAs may accumulate in food in high concentrations via the activities of microorganisms that produce decarboxylation enzymes. Neither tryptamine, phenylethylamine, nor spermidine was detected in the monitored cheese samples. Biogenic amines were detected in 20 samples, with tyramine and spermine being the most abundant, particularly in Feta cheeses, where tyramine concentrations exceeded 100 mg/kg in three samples. In 25% of the tested cheeses, total concentration of all the monitored biogenic amines and polyamines exceeded the level of 100 mg/kg, which may be considered of toxicological significance to sensitive persons. Decarboxylase activity was identified in 94 isolates, including significant producers such as Levilactobacillus brevis and Enterococcus durans. The correlation between high total microbial counts and lactic acid bacteria suggests that these microorganisms play a critical role in biogenic amine production. Our findings highlight the importance of monitoring specific microbial populations to mitigate biogenic amine risks in cheese production.Internal Grant Agency of Tomas Bata University in Zlin; [IGA/FT/2024/004
Machine learning-based surface roughness prediction in magnetorheological finishing of polyamide influenced by initial conditions
Surface roughness prediction enhances manufacturing efficiency and reduces costs by minimizing trial-and-error testing. Machine learning can address the uncertainty and nonlinear relationships in magnetorheological finishing (MRF), providing a reliable alternative. However, its application in this area remains underexplored. Therefore, this paper proposes a machine learning-based model for predicting the final surface roughness Rₐd of polyamide 6 based on initial conditions and several other variables. Experiments were conducted with varying process parameters consisting of durations, rotational speeds, and gaps between the tool and workpiece to generate training data. Statistical analysis was performed to assess correlations, trends, and model complexities. Four output-input schemes are formulated to identify the best configurations. The deployed machine learning models are Feedforward Neural Networks (FFNN) trained using the Levenberg-Marquardt (LM) and Extreme Learning Machines (ELM). The LM base-FFNN model accurately predicted the outputs with fewer hidden nodes, while ELM offered comparable accuracy with faster training, albeit requiring more parameters. The models were evaluated based on R2 and RMSE values, achieving R2 values of >0.90 in training and testing cases. Among the proposed schemes, the one predicting the difference between final and initial surface roughness (ΔRad) while considering all inputs using ELM provided the best accuracy compared to the other schemes. Direct prediction of ΔRad shows potential, but the data is more concentrated toward the half range, reducing the generalization capability. The gap parameter can affect the ΔRad prediction accuracies slightly as it affects the weakening or strengthening of the magnetic fields. Meanwhile, the elimination of the initial surface roughness condition as one of the inputs can severely degrade accuracy, resulting in an R2 value of <0.40. In conclusion, our findings emphasize the promise of machine learning-based predictive models and the importance of incorporating initial conditions for assisting MRF-based polishing processes.Tomas Bata University in Zlín, TBU, (IGA/FT/2025/004, RP/CPS/2024–28/007); Tomas Bata University in Zlín, TB
An experimental investigation into trochoidal milling for high-quality GFRP machining
This study investigates the effectiveness of trochoidal (adaptive) milling in machining Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer (GFRP), emphasizing its potential advantages over conventional milling. Six coated solid carbide end mills, each with distinct geometries, were evaluated under identical conditions to assess the cutting forces, surface quality, dimensional accuracy, burr formation, chip size distribution, and tool wear. Trochoidal milling demonstrated shorter cycle times—up to 23% faster—and higher material removal rates (MRRs), while conventional milling provided superior dimensional control and smoother surfaces in certain fiber-sensitive regions. A four-tooth cutter with a low helix angle (10°) and aluminum-oxide coating delivered the best overall performance, balancing minimal tool wear with high-quality finishes (arithmetic mean roughness, Ra, as low as 1.36 μm). The results indicate that although conventional milling can exhibit a 25%-lower RMS cutting force, its peak forces and extended machining times may limit the throughput. Conversely, trochoidal milling, when coupled with an appropriately robust tool, effectively manages the cutting forces, improves the surface quality, and reduces the machining time. Most chips produced were less than 11 μm in size, highlighting the need for suitable dust extraction. Notably, a hybrid approach—trochoidal roughing followed by conventional finishing—offers a promising method for achieving both efficient material removal and enhanced dimensional accuracy in GFRP components
Yugoslav tourists in the Czechoslovak spas during the interwar period (1918-1939)
This study explores the overlooked phenomenon of Yugoslav tourists in Czechoslovak spas during the interwar period, employing archival research, travelogues, and contemporary periodicals. The tourist exchange, driven by rich economic relations, reveals a dynamic interplay of socio-cultural interactions. Focused on spas like Karlovy Vary, Mariánské Lázně, Poděbrady, and others, the research uncovers the experiences of Yugoslav elites in these transnational spaces, contributing to a broader understanding of interwar tourism and diplomatic ties in Central Europe
Techno-functional properties and recent advances in the manufacturing of whey beverages: A review
Whey is mostly generated during the production of cheese or curds. Nevertheless, the quantity of whey generated is substantial, with just fifty percent of the total utilised. Moreover, improper disposal of whey has a negative impact on the environment. The use of whey in beverage production is an innovative approach with the potential to expand the application possibilities of this by-product of the food industry. The article focuses on the composition and health benefits of whey, while the impact of improper disposal of whey into wastewater and the environmental impact are discussed. Included is a description of the production and properties of unfermented and fermented whey beverages. Finally, new technological processes used in the production of whey-based beverages are discussed.Tomas Bata University in Zlín, TBU, (IGA/FT/2025/007); Tomas Bata University in Zlín, TBUInternal Grant Agency of the Tomas Bata University in Zlin; [IGA/FT/2025/007
"I'm just looking at the pictures and ... ": The role of illustrations in books from the perspective of preschool children
This qualitative study explores perceptions of preschool children on the role of illustrations in books. Participants included 141 children (69 boys and 82 girls) age 5–6 years (average age: 5 years and 9 months). We used semi-structured interviews with children on their favorite book to stimulate conversation on how they conceive illustrations in the book and how they use them in book- and reading-related activities. The data collected from the interviews were analyzed using inductive thematic analyses. Data analyses showed that from children’s perspective, illustrations are important stimuli to become and stay interested in a book and that they play an important role in navigating the book and the text and in aiding their comprehension of the text. The potential of illustration to capture children’s attention and to foster their enthusiasm to actively engage in reading books has been found to be essential from the perspective of children. In addition, active attention to illustrations can serve as a tool to increase children’s independence from adults when reading books and engaging in book-related activities
Intelligent urban traffic management systems - Takeways from Martin city
The article focuses on transportation, specifically urban public transport. Intelligent transport systems are used for optimizing and managing road traffic, mobility management, increasing safety and the smooth flow of road traffic, improving the administration and maintenance of road infrastructure, enhancing public transport services, and reducing environmental impact. The main objective of the work is the proposal of the implementation of a smart transportation concept based on Zurich infrastructure in Martin City. Focusing on systems that can make urban transport more efficient is one of the most important topics in transportation, alongside operational safety and ecological transportation. The first part defines the concept of intelligent transport systems and discusses their benefits. The core of the work focuses on the operation and implementation of active traffic preference. The final part discusses the positive aspects of implementing traffic management systems and the negative issues affecting this process. It also briefly describes the potential use of the latest technologies in this type of transport, in direct cooperation with the established active vehicle preference for urban public transport and monitoring intersections, air quality, and road surface conditions.Vedecká Grantová Agentúra MŠVVaŠ SR a SAV, VEGA, (1/0630/22); Vedecká Grantová Agentúra MŠVVaŠ SR a SAV, VEGAproject VEGA [1/0630/22
Sensing the vibrations of grinding wheels by contact and non-contact methods
This study explores vibration diagnostics and balancing techniques for grinding wheels using non-contact measurement technologies. It focuses on the impact of static balancing on vibration reduction, measured with a laser interferometer for high-frequency resolution. Theoretical foundations of technical diagnostics and the application of FFT (Fast Fourier Transform) for vibration analysis are discussed. Contact and non-contact methods are compared, with experimental data demonstrating the superior accuracy of non-contact approaches. Results confirm that proper balancing enhances operational stability and extends tool life. The study highlights the benefits of non-contact diagnostics for predictive maintenance and improved reliability in industrial rotating equipment.Tomas Bata University in Zlín, TBU, (IGA/FT/2025/004); Tomas Bata University in Zlín, TB
Enhanced electrochemical performance of renewable flexible supercapacitors through the synergistic effects of nitrogen-doped carbonaceous fillers and controlled polypyrrole nanostructuring on nanocellulose fibers
The growing demand for sustainable, high-performance energy storage solutions has driven advancements in flexible supercapacitors, which offer high power density, fast charging, and adaptability. This study investigates the electrochemical performance of novel, renewable, flexible, lightweight, and cost-effective electrodes synthesized using environmentally friendly one-pot and two-step methods. The electrodes integrate polypyrrole nanotubes (PPy–NT), cellulose nanofibers (CNF), and nitrogen-doped one-dimensional carbonaceous fillers (ACT–NT) or commercial carbon black. ACT–NT obtained by carbonizing and activating of PPy–NT, exhibit a nanotubular structure, high surface area, wettability, and tunable electrical conductivity. To construct a flexible supercapacitor, a simple cellulose hydrogel was synthesized as a dual-function electrolyte reservoir and separator. The PPy–NT/CNF electrode, synthesized via the one-pot method, achieved the highest initial specific capacitance (e.g., 172 F g−1 at 5 mV s−1). This performance was attributed to the uniform growth of PPy–NT on CNF, which improved conductivity and redox activity. However, electrodes with carbonaceous fillers demonstrated better cycling stability by reinforcing the electrode structure and enabling a combination of electric double-layer capacitance and pseudocapacitive charge storage. The two-step synthesis method further enhanced the performance of PPy–NT/ACT–NT/CNF electrode by achieving an optimal balance of conductivity, morphology, wettability, textural and mechanical properties, outperforming their one-pot synthesis counterparts. These findings highlight the importance of material design for flexible, renewable supercapacitors, offering a pathway to more sustainable and efficient energy storage.Grantová Agentura České Republiky, GACR, (23-05784S, CZ.02.01.01/00/22_008/0004617); Grantová Agentura České Republiky, GACR; European Commission, EC, (A2_FCHI_2024_021); European Commission, ECCzech Science Foundation (GACR); European Union [CZ.02.01.01/00/22_008/0004617]; State budget of the Czech Republic; Specific University Research [A2_FCHI_2024_021]; [23-05784S