bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A comparative study on green synthesis and characterization of Mn doped ZnO nanocomposite for antibacterial and photocatalytic applications
Authors: Hasan Murtaza , Liu Qiang , Kanwal Ayesha , Tariq Tuba , Mustafa Ghazala , Batool Sana , Ghorbanpour Mansour 
Published: March 2024

AbstractBiological and green synthesis of nanomaterial is a superior choice over chemical and physical methods due to nanoscale attributes implanted in a green chemistry matrix, have sparked a lot of interest for their potential uses in a variety of sectors. This research investigates the growing relevance of nanocomposites manufactured using ecologically friendly, green technologies. The transition to green synthesis correlates with the worldwide drive for environmentally sound procedures, limiting the use of traditional harsh synthetic techniques. Herein, manganese was decorated on ZnO NPs via reducing agent of Withania-extract and confirmed by UV-spectrophotometry with highest peak at 1:2 ratio precursors, and having lower bandgap energy (3.3 eV). XRD showed the sharp peaks and confirms the formation of nanoparticles, having particle size in range of 11–14 nm. SEM confirmed amorphous tetragonal structure while EDX spectroscopy showed the presence of Zn and Mn in all composition. Green synthesized Mn-decorated ZnO-NPs screened against bacterial strains and exhibited excellent antimicrobial activities against gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria. To check further, applicability of synthesized Mn-decorated Zn nanocomposites, their photocatalytic activity against toxic water pollutants (methylene blue (MB) dye) were also investigated and results showed that 53.8% degradation of MB was done successfully. Furthermore, the installation of green chemistry in synthesizing nanocomposites by using plant extract matrix optimizes antibacterial characteristics, antioxidant and biodegradability, helping to build sustainable green Mn decorated ZnO nanomaterial. This work, explains how biologically friendly Mn-doped ZnO nanocomposites can help reduce the environmental impact of traditional packaging materials. Based on these findings, it was determined that nanocomposites derived from biological resources should be produced on a wide scale to eradicate environmental and water contaminants through degradation.
Future drought risk and adaptation of pastoralism in Eurasian rangelands
Authors: Nandintsetseg Banzragch , Chang Jinfeng , Sen Omer L. , Reyer Christopher P. O. , Kong Kaman , Yetemen Omer , Ciais Philippe , Davaadalai Jamts 
Published: March 2024

AbstractDrought risk threatens pastoralism in rangelands, which are already under strain from climatic and socioeconomic changes. We examine the future drought risk (2031–2060 and 2071–2100) to rangeland productivity across Eurasia (West, Central, and East Asia) using a well-tested process-based ecosystem model and projections of five climate models under three shared socioeconomic pathway (SSP) scenarios of low (SSP1−2.6), medium (SSP3−7.0), and high (SSP5−8.5) warming relative to 1985–2014. We employ a probabilistic approach, with risk defined as the expected productivity loss induced by the probability of hazardous droughts (determined by a precipitation-based index) and vulnerability (the response of rangeland productivity to hazardous droughts). Drought risk and vulnerability are projected to increase in magnitude and area across Eurasian rangelands, with greater increases in 2071–2100 under the medium and high warming scenarios than in 2031–2060. Increasing risk in West Asia is caused by longer and more intense droughts and vulnerability, whereas higher risk in Central and East Asia is mainly associated with increased vulnerability, indicating overall risk is higher where vulnerability increases. These findings suggest that future droughts may exacerbate livestock feed shortages and negatively impact pastoralism. The results have practical implications for rangeland management that should be adapted to the ecological and socioeconomic contexts of the different countries in the region. Existing traditional ecological knowledge can be promoted to adapt to drought risk and embedded in a wider set of adaptation measures involving management improvements, social transformations, capacity building, and policy reforms addressing multiple stakeholders.
Segregation of morphogenetic regulatory function of Shox2 from its cell fate guardian role in sinoatrial node development
Authors: Li Hua , Tang Qinghuang , Yang Tianfang , Wang Zhengsen , Li Dainan , Wang Linyan , Li Liwen , Chen Yaoyi , Huang Hai , Zhang Yanding , Chen YiPing 
Published: March 2024

AbstractShox2 plays a vital role in the morphogenesis and physiological function of the sinoatrial node (SAN), the primary cardiac pacemaker, manifested by the formation of a hypoplastic SAN and failed differentiation of pacemaker cells in Shox2 mutants. Shox2 and Nkx2-5 are co-expressed in the developing SAN and regulate the fate of the pacemaker cells through a Shox2-Nkx2-5 antagonistic mechanism. Here we show that simultaneous inactivation of Nkx2-5 in the SAN of Shox2 mutants (dKO) rescued the pacemaking cell fate but not the hypoplastic defects, indicating uncoupling of SAN cell fate determination and morphogenesis. Single-cell RNA-seq revealed that the presumptive SAN cells of Shox2-/- mutants failed to activate pacemaking program but remained in a progenitor state preceding working myocardium, while both wildtype and dKO SAN cells displayed normal pacemaking cell fate with similar cellular state. Shox2 thus acts as a safeguard but not a determinant to ensure the pacemaking cell fate through the Shox2-Nkx2-5 antagonistic mechanism, which is segregated from its morphogenetic regulatory function in SAN development.
Characterization of tumor evolution by functional clonality and phylogenetics in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Kacar Zeynep , Slud Eric , Levy Doron , Candia Julián , Budhu Anuradha , Forgues Marshonna , Wu Xiaolin , Raziuddin Arati , Tran Bao , Shetty Jyoti , Pomyen Yotsawat , Chaisaingmongkol Jittiporn , Rabibhadana Siritida , Pupacdi Benjarath , Bhudhisawasdi Vajarabhongsa , Lertprasertsuke Nirush , Auewarakul Chirayu , Sangrajrang Suleeporn , Mahidol Chulabhorn , Ruchirawat Mathuros , Wang Xin Wei 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a molecularly heterogeneous solid malignancy, and its fitness may be shaped by how its tumor cells evolve. However, ability to monitor tumor cell evolution is hampered by the presence of numerous passenger mutations that do not provide any biological consequences. Here we develop a strategy to determine the tumor clonality of three independent HCC cohorts of 524 patients with diverse etiologies and race/ethnicity by utilizing somatic mutations in cancer driver genes. We identify two main types of tumor evolution, i.e., linear, and non-linear models where non-linear type could be further divided into classes, which we call shallow branching and deep branching. We find that linear evolving HCC is less aggressive than other types. GTF2IRD2B mutations are enriched in HCC with linear evolution, while TP53 mutations are the most frequent genetic alterations in HCC with non-linear models. Furthermore, we observe significant B cell enrichment in linear trees compared to non-linear trees suggesting the need for further research to uncover potential variations in immune cell types within genomically determined phylogeny types. These results hint at the possibility that tumor cells and their microenvironment may collectively influence the tumor evolution process.
Complex rupture dynamics of the extremely shallow August 2020 M5.1 Sparta, North Carolina earthquake
Authors: Neves Miguel , Chuang Lindsay Y. , Li Wei , Peng Zhigang , Figueiredo Paula M. , Ni Sidao 
Published: March 2024

AbstractOn August 9, 2020, an Mw 5.1 earthquake ruptured the uppermost crust near the town of Sparta, North Carolina, creating the first co-seismic faulting surface rupture documented in the Eastern United States. Combining deep learning and matched filter earthquake detection, with differential-travel times relocation, we obtain a catalog of 1761 earthquakes, about 5.8 times the number of events listed in the standard USGS/NEIC catalog. The relocated seismicity revealed a complex fault structure with distinct planar alignments, supported by a moment tensor inversion with significant non-double-couple component. The Sparta mainshock with a centroid depth of 1.3 km is interpreted to have nucleated near the intersection of two main fault strands. The mainshock likely ruptured a blind strike-slip fault and a reverse fault associated with the identified surface rupture, both possibly part of a flower structure-like diffuse fault zone. Our observations highlight a complex behavior of extremely shallow earthquakes in stable continental regions.
Tunneled Paranasal Augmentation Using Diced Autologous Costal Cartilage in Asian Rhinoplasty: A Comparative Study
Authors: Lin Guangxian , Yihao Xu , Zhang Xulong , You Jianjun , Wang Huan , Zheng Ruobing , Tian Le , Guo Junsheng , Song Zhen , Fan Fei 
Published: March 2024

AbstractDue to the prevalence of anterior maxilla dysplasia in Asian population, paranasal concavity is a common accompaniment to low nose, but its impact on facial harmonization is often underestimated. A retrospective comparative study was conducted on patients diagnosed as low nose with paranasal concavity between June 2017 and June 2021, with a total of 56 patients followed up successfully. The control and observation groups were established according to whether the paranasal augmentation was performed. Demographic data were collected. Cosmetic enhancement was quantitatively evaluated by sagittal planimetry, establishing related anatomical landmarks and measuring columella base prominence (CBP) and alar base prominence (ABP). Subjective evaluation concluded the patient-reported satisfaction (FACE-Q-Rhinoplasty Module and Facial Appearance Module) and the third-party physician assessment (Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale, GAIS).Significant improvements in CBP and ABP were reported both in the control and the observation group (p < 0.01). In postoperative intergroup comparisons, the observation group was superior to the control group regarding ABP values (2.5 ± 0.75 degrees, p < 0.01), FACE-Q-Facial scores (7.49 ± 3.70, p < 0.05), and GAIS scores (p < 0.05). However, no statistical difference was found in CBP values and FACE-Q-Rhinoplasty scores. Paranasal augmentation-related complications included asymmetry of alar bases (6.9%) and facial or intraoral foreign body sensation (34.5%). This study affirmed that paranasal augmentation using diced costal cartilage in rhinoplasty is a safe procedure effective in remedying paranasal concavity and improving facial satisfaction.
Level of Evidence: IV
Spatial proximity matters, predispositions do not: explaining policy preferences for long-term natural disaster mitigation
Authors: Leino Mikko , Ylisalo Juha , Himmelroos Staffan 
Published: March 2024

AbstractVoter myopia, the inability and unwillingness of citizens to accept policies whose benefits only materialise over a long period, is often considered an almost inevitable feature of representative democracy. Recent studies have subjected this assumption to empirical scrutiny, but the extent to which variation in political future orientation of citizens is associated with support for alternative policies, with differing temporal profiles of benefits and costs, has remained largely uncharted. Utilising survey data from Finland (n = 1049), we study the associations spatial proximity to a regionally relevant problem, flooding and political future orientation have with choices between policy alternatives that distribute benefits differently between generations. We found that, while levels of political future orientation are not a significant determinant of the willingness to invest in the future wellbeing, heightened issue salience linked to geographic proximity to the potential event plays a role in shaping policy preferences.
A creative industrial design framework of the taxonomy for Chinese indigenous materials and relevant crafts
Authors: Duan Jinjuan , Evans Mark , Hurn Karl , Storer Ian , Bai Zhewen 
Published: March 2024

AbstractIndustrial designers have a need to acquire knowledge related to physical materials and undertake activities such as materials selection and materials-driven creative design. Chinese indigenous materials (CIMs) and relevant crafts are identified as a significant but currently untapped resource for designers. Existing research lacks systematic organization and classification for this rich resource making it difficult to develop an online materials database for creative design. To enable industrial designers to develop an understanding of CIMs, obtain design inspiration and stimulate creative design activity, this paper reports on the development of a framework for a taxonomy of CIMs. Through literature review and analysis of existing design tools, the purpose, ending conditions, basic methods and framework of a taxonomy were identified. Taking Xuan Paper as an example, a case study was undertaken to establish methods and processes. When combined with expert interviews and user questionnaires, the usefulness, efficiency and acceptability of the research framework were evaluated, optimized and validated. The findings indicate that a CIM taxonomy can support designers to systematically acquire materials and processing information, facilitate materials-driven creative design, material comparison/selection and provide a framework for the construction of CIM-related databases.
Equalizing the battery charges of rechargeable accumulators
Authors: Petrov O I 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Charge imbalances in high-voltage batteries, including battery cell arrays, such as lithium-ion in hybrid vehicles, tend to develop and increase over time as the batteries are charged and discharged, or even when the battery remains charged but not in use. This reduces the efficiency of the battery charging and discharging modes, and limits battery life and capacity. The article describes a method and device for performing the charge equalization operation when charging a storage battery. The elements of the charger circuit have been selected, the parameters of which are sufficient for charging with equalizing the charge of the Audi Q5 hybrid Quattro car. Calculations of the pulse mode of charging the battery of the specified car, as well as the time spent on charging with equalizing the battery charges are given. The charging time of the considered battery with the elimination of a 15% imbalance of the batteries will last up to 139 minutes (2.31 hours). The results of calculating the operating parameters of the device indicate that the device for equalizing the charge of the batteries is operable, can be implemented on a modern element base at a relatively low cost, and is capable of charging the battery in a time acceptable for the operation of the car.
A Duster Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle with Wireless Charging System
Authors: Marinescu D G , Marinescu A , Nicolae V , Calin L , Parlac S , Vieru I , Stan A 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
The paper presents the GASTER Electricway 4WD concept, Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) type, in development within the Automotive Engineering Research Centre of the University of Pitesti, aiming to create a green and versatile version of Romanian Dacia Duster. The car has been built by implementing a hybrid propulsion system with electrified rear axle. This hybrid system is PHEV, parallel type with two shafts, organized in a motorized solution E4WD (Electricway 4WD). It is composed of a thermal power train with a 1.6 litre engine fuelled with Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) and a CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission), placed in the front of the vehicle. The electric powertrain, located at the rear side of the vehicle includes an electric motor coupled with a mechanical transmission. The traction battery is Lithium-ion NMC type. The charging of the traction battery can be performed with the on board charger of by cable from a Wallbox or public station, in the Standard version, and Plug-in bidirectional or Wireless from renewable sources in the Premium version.
The design and development of an Integrated Propulsion System – Phase 1: the wheel architecture
Authors: Croitorescu V , Preda D , Giurca L 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
The paper presents the design and development of an integrated powertrain system where the suspension system is also included in the wheel together with the electric machine. Based on a patent of one of the authors, the solution was virtually developed and tested. Different advancements were performed during the development phases for choosing the final architecture. Currently, the integrated propulsion system is manufactured and implemented on a L6E road vehicle to be tested and optimized.
Overview of the use of oxygen sensors in automotive applications
Authors: Tutunea D , Dumitru I , Stănciuc-Oţăt O V 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
In the process of combustion, the air-fuel ratio is important for control strategies to reduce fuel economy and improve engine performance. Oxygen sensors are key elements in electronic fuel injection systems to indicate the oxygen content and send electrical signals to the electronic control unit. Starting with the first generation of oxygen sensors, which had limited applications, all automotive manufacturers now use wideband sensors to detect oxygen concentration with rapid reaction and linear output characteristics. Also, these new sensors provide accurate information for a wide range of air coefficients (λ = 0.65-2.4), improving combustion efficiency. In this paper, several types of narrowband and wideband sensors were analyzed, measuring the activation temperature for each sensor until a reliable signal was obtained.
Dynamic model for an independent suspension
Authors: Popa D , Popa C M , Marcu S 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
The paper presents the dynamic model with 4 degrees of freedom of an independent suspension with MacPherson type coil springs, taking into account the anti-roll bar. Starting from the constructive scheme, a kinematic analysis necessary to obtain the dynamic model is carried out. The differential displacement equations are obtained starting from the expressions of kinetic and potential energy, by applying Lagrange’s equations. Next, the expressions of the inertia, stiffness and damping matrices and, finally, the matrix expression of pitch-roll vibrations are presented. At the end of the paper, in the numerical application carried out with a calculation program in MATLAB, the influence of the values of the damping constants on the dynamic forces at the wheels is studied. The numerical results are presented in the form of diagrams.
Comparative analysis of FEM tire-soft snow interaction and theoretical model based on Bekker’s coefficients
Authors: Surkutwar Y , Vilsan A , Sandu C , Untaroiu C 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Tire-deformable terrain interaction is a complex phenomenon that has proven difficult to characterize accurately and comprehensively using numerical models. While researchers have attempted to develop various numerical models to estimate tire behavior on deformable terrain, the most accurate models to date rely on empirical data and are only applicable to specific rolling conditions. In this research paper, a comparison between theoretical mechanics and a finite element method (FEM) model of a rigid tire rolling on a layer of soft snow is presented. The goal is to compare the data obtained from the FEM tire-soft snow interaction analysis with the data generated by a theoretical numerical model. The FEM snow model is developed using the Drucker-Prager cap material model while the tire is assumed rigid. The assumption of the rigid tire can provide reasonably accurate results in the case of the soft snow interaction model. The theoretical pressure-sinkage coefficients of the Bekker equation (kc, kϕ
and n) for soft snow are calculated by simulating vertical penetration tests in the FEM snow model. The results of the pressure distribution and rolling resistance due to compaction obtained by the FEM and the theoretical model results are then compared.
An analysis of emissions and carbon footprints for the various types of vehicle propulsion
Authors: Oprica A , Florescu B , Bică M , Dumitru I , Tutunea D , Racila L , Gencărau N D 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Plans, predictions, and strategies to decrease emissions from vehicles are now being implemented as a direct result of anti-pollution legislation, which is currently in full swing. Countries that have achieved a high level of industrialization have enacted a variety of policies designed to encourage the production of clean (or less polluting) vehicles. These policies include the reduction of taxes as well as the imposition of penalties (such as green surcharges or even a ban on driving) on vehicles that emit high levels of pollutants that are in excess of what is considered to be acceptable levels. The public at large is coming around to the idea that human activity is responsible for the majority of climate change, as well as the emission of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases, and this theory has a solid foundation in the scientific community. The paper aims to explore findings in the context of the disproportionately carbon footprint for different means of transportation of goods.
Job function as determinant of clinker exposure at workplaces during cement production
Authors: Weinbruch Stephan , Scerri Mark , Eduard Wijnand , Thomassen Yngvar , Nordby Karl-Christian , Notø Hilde 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Objectives
In the cement production industry, exposure to airborne particulate matter is associated with a decline in lung function and increased airway symptoms. Exposure to clinker—the major constituent of cement and supposedly the cause of the observed adverse health effects—was determined recently in 15 cement production plants located in 8 different countries (Estonia, Greece, Italy, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland, Spain, Turkey). It was shown that the median clinker abundance in the thoracic fraction varied between approximately 20% and 70% for individual plants. The present study complements the previous work by investigating the significance of job function as a determinant of clinker exposure.

Methods
The elemental composition (water and acid-soluble fractions separately) of 1,227 personal thoracic workplace samples was analyzed by positive matrix factorization (PMF) to determine the contribution of different sources to the composition of airborne particulate matter and to quantify the clinker content.

Results
Median thoracic mass air concentrations varied for individual job functions between 0.094 and 12 mg/m3 (estimated separately for different plants). The PMF 5-factor solution yielded median relative clinker abundances in the personal thoracic samples between 7.6% and 81% for individual job functions. Thoracic clinker air concentrations are highest for cleaning, production, and maintenance work, and lowest for administration and other work. Foremen and laboratory personnel show intermediate exposure levels. The plant was found to have a much higher contribution to the total variance of the thoracic clinker air concentrations than the job function. Thoracic clinker air concentrations (medians between 0.01 and 5.5 mg/m3) are strongly correlated with the thoracic mass air concentrations and to a lesser extent with the relative clinker abundance in an aerosol sample.

Conclusions
Job function is an important predictor of exposure to clinker in the cement production industry. As clinker is suspected to be the causal agent for the observed adverse health effects among cement production workers, the clinker air concentration may be a better exposure metric than thoracic air mass concentration despite the strong correlation between the two. Reduction strategies should focus on the most exposed job categories cleaning, production, and maintenance work.