bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Recent advances in the characterization of essential genes and development of a database of essential genes
Authors: Liang Ya‐Ting , Luo Hao , Lin Yan , Gao Feng 
Published: January 2024

AbstractOver the past few decades, there has been a significant interest in the study of essential genes, which are crucial for the survival of an organism under specific environmental conditions and thus have practical applications in the fields of synthetic biology and medicine. An increasing amount of experimental data on essential genes has been obtained with the continuous development of technological methods. Meanwhile, various computational prediction methods, related databases and web servers have emerged accordingly. To facilitate the study of essential genes, we have established a database of essential genes (DEG), which has become popular with continuous updates to facilitate essential gene feature analysis and prediction, drug and vaccine development, as well as artificial genome design and construction. In this article, we summarized the studies of essential genes, overviewed the relevant databases, and discussed their practical applications. Furthermore, we provided an overview of the main applications of DEG and conducted comprehensive analyses based on its latest version. However, it should be noted that the essential gene is a dynamic concept instead of a binary one, which presents both opportunities and challenges for their future development.
Soil enzyme profile analysis for indicating decomposer micro‐food web
Authors: Xing Wen , Hu Ning , Li Zhongfang , Feng Liangshan , Zhang Weidong , Du Preez Gerhard , Zhang Huimin , Li Dongchu , Lu Shunbao , Chang Scott X. , Zhang Qingwen , Lou Yilai 
Published: January 2024

AbstractHighly diverse exoenzymes mediate the energy flow from substrates to the multitrophic microbiota within the soil decomposer micro‐food web. Here, we used a “soil enzyme profile analysis” approach to establish a series of enzyme profile indices; those indices were hypothesized to reflect micro‐food web features. We systematically evaluated the shifts in enzyme profile indices in relation to the micro‐food web features in the restoration of an abandoned cropland to a natural area. We found that enzymatic C:N stoichiometry and decomposability index were significantly associated with substrate availability. Furthermore, the higher Shannon diversity index in the exoenzyme profile, especially for the C‐degrading hydrolase, corresponded to a greater microbiota community diversity. The increased complexity and stability of the exoenzyme network reflected similar changes with the micro‐food web networks. In addition, the gross activity of the enzyme profile as a parameter for soil multifunctionality, effectively predicted the substrate content, microbiota community size, diversity, and network complexity. Ultimately, the proposed enzymic channel index was closely associated with the traditional decomposition channel indices derived from microorganisms and nematodes. Our results showed that soil enzyme profile analysis reflected very well the decomposer food web features. Our study has important implications for projecting future climate change or anthropogenic disturbance impacts on soil decomposer micro‐food web features by using soil enzyme profile analysis.
Machine learning‐assisted serum SERS strategy for rapid and non‐invasive screening of early cystic echinococcosis
Authors: Zheng Xiangxiang , Li Jintian , Lü Guodong , Li Xiaojing , Lü Xiaoyi , Wu Guohua , Xu Liang 
Published: January 2024

AbstractEarly and accurate diagnosis of cystic echinococcosis (CE) with existing technologies is still challenging. Herein, we proposed a novel strategy based on the combination of label‐free serum surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) spectroscopy and machine learning for rapid and non‐invasive diagnosis of early‐stage CE. Specifically, by establishing early‐ and middle‐stage mouse models, the corresponding CE‐infected and normal control serum samples were collected, and silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were utilized as the substrate to obtain SERS spectra. The early‐ and middle‐stage discriminant models were developed using a support vector machine, with diagnostic accuracies of 91.7% and 95.7%, respectively. Furthermore, by analyzing the serum SERS spectra, some biomarkers that may be related to early CE were found, including purine metabolites and protein‐related amide bands, which was consistent with other biochemical studies. Thus, our findings indicate that label‐free serum SERS analysis is a potential early‐stage CE detection method that is promising for clinical translation.
Arginine‐methylated c‐Myc affects mitochondrial mitophagy in mouse acute kidney injury via Slc25a24
Authors: Liu Ying , Liu Naiquan , He Ping , Cao Shiyu , Li Huabing , Liu Dajun 
Published: January 2024

AbstractThe transcription factor methylated c‐Myc heterodimerizes with MAX to modulate gene expression, and plays an important role in energy metabolism in kidney injury but the exact mechanism remains unclear. Mitochondrial solute transporter Slc25a24 imports ATP into mitochondria and is central to energy metabolism. Gene Expression Omnibus data analysis reveals Slc25a24 and c‐Myc are consistently upregulated in all the acute kidney injury (AKI) cells. Pearson correlation analysis also shows that Slc25a24 and c‐Myc are strongly correlated (⍴ > 0.9). Mutant arginine methylated c‐Myc (R299A and R346A) reduced its combination with MAX when compared with the wild type of c‐Myc. On the other hand, the Slc25a24 levels were also correspondingly reduced, which induced the downregulation of ATP production. The results promoted reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and mitophagy generation. The study revealed that the c‐Myc overexpression manifested the most pronounced mitochondrial DNA depletion. Additionally, the varied levels of mitochondrial proteins like TIM23, TOM20, and PINK1 in each group, particularly the elevated levels of PINK1 in AKI model groups and lower levels of TIM23 and TOM20 in the c‐Myc overexpression group, suggest potential disruptions in mitochondrial dynamics and homeostasis, indicating enhanced mitophagy or mitochondrial loss. Therefore, arginine‐methylated c‐Myc affects mouse kidney injury by regulating mitochondrial ATP and ROS, and mitophagy via Slc25a24.
From risk assessment to land planning. The case of a trace element‐contaminated area in Chile
Authors: Mondaca Pedro , Berasaluce Maite , Larraguibel‐González Cristián , Salazar Andrés , Nuñez‐Hidalgo Ignacio , Díaz‐Siefer Pablo 
Published: January 2024

AbstractWhile abundant scientific literature focuses on diagnosing contaminated areas, solutions with a scientific base are far from balanced. This is the case of the Quintero‐Puchuncaví Bay, a widely known contaminated area in the central coast of Chile. Here, arsenic in soils surrounding the industrial complex has been reported as a threat to human health. However, land planning based on As contamination becomes a challenge since the whole area is identified as contaminated. Such a lack of land‐planning constrains the occupation and remediation of contaminated soil leading to a brownfield‐like landscape. To face this challenge, we proposed using a geospatial decision support system (S‐DSS) to integrate the contamination assessment, health and ecosystem risks, and potential land uses. When characterizing soil arsenic concentration thresholds for different land uses in a S‐DSS, we could categorize the land in suitable, caution, and unsuitable areas (based on human health risks). This way, we unravel areas with potential use in the current condition while also discerning caution and unsuitable categories, that can undergo extensive and intensive remediation techniques. Similarly, we took a conservational approach to estimate emerging risk from the industrial complex associated to explosions. Altogether, it highlights the potential of S‐DSS to integrate different geographic information. We finally feature two APPs regarding current land‐use suitability and a modeled one considering future arsenic emissions.
Soft and Stretchable Humidity‐Insensitive Thermoresistive Temperature Sensor with A Tensile Strain Modulated Sensitivity
Authors: Albeltagi Ahmed , Tolvanen Jarkko , Bhalerao Sagar R. , Hannu Jari 
Published: January 2024

AbstractSoft and stretchable electronics represents a high potential paradigm shift in field of electronics, for example, in applications related to solar cells, organic displays, electronic skin, and wearable sensors. In this work, a soft and stretchable humidity‐insensitive thermoresistive sensor is developed using interdigitated electrodes made of silver‐plated nylon fabric coated with silver‐ink and a layer of poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene)–poly(styrene sulfonate) (PEDOT: PSS) embedded into elastomer. The mechanical and thermoelectrical properties of the soft sensor are characterized and analyzed. The fabricated soft sensor provides a combination of linear temperature sensitivity of 0.46% °C−1 with an R2 of 0.986 from 30 to 55 °C at 0% uniaxial tensile strain. It also exhibits excellent stability in environmental humidity ranging from ≈30% RH to ≈80% RH. The linear sensitivity is improved to 1.49% °C−1 by applying a 40% pre‐measurement stretch to the sensor. Due to its good temperature sensitivity (0.46 to 1.49% °C−1), excellent linearity (0.986), and high stretchability (≈125%), the soft and stretchable temperature sensor proves to be a very promising solution for wearable temperature sensing.
The effect of aquaporin‐4 inhibition on cerebrospinal fluid‐tissue water exchange in mouse brain detected by magnetization transfer indirect spin labeling MRI
Authors: Chen Zilin , Lai Joseph H. C. , Xu Jiadi , Zhang Hao , Huang Jianpan , Chan Kannie W. Y. 
Published: January 2024

AbstractThe fluid transport of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and interstitial fluid in surrounding tissues plays an important role in the drainage pathway that facilitates waste clearance from the brain. This pathway is known as the glymphatic or perivascular system, and its functions are dependent on aquaporin‐4 (AQP4). Recently, magnetization transfer indirect spin labeling (MISL) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has been proposed as a noninvasive and noncontrast‐enhanced method for detecting water exchange between CSF and brain tissue. In this study, we first optimized the MISL sequence at preclinical 3 T MRI, and then studied the correlation of MISL in CSF with magnetization transfer (MT) in brain tissue, as well as the altered water exchange under AQP4 inhibition, using C57BL/6 mice. Results showed a strong correlation of MISL signal with MT signal. With the AQP4 inhibitor, we observed a significant decrease in MISL value (P < 0.05), suggesting that the hampered AQP4 activity led to decreased water exchange between CSF and brain tissue or the impairment of the glymphatic function. Overall, our findings demonstrate the potential application of MISL in assessing brain water exchange at 3 T MRI and its potential clinical translation.
Impact and notched strength of multiaxially reinforced out of die UV cured pultruded profiles
Authors: Ruiz de Eguino I. , Tena I. , Saenz‐Dominguez I. , Sarrionandia M. , Aurrekoetxea J. 
Published: January 2024

AbstractThe present paper highlights the benefits of multiaxially reinforced profiles manufactured by out of die ultraviolet (UV) cured pultrusion. Thanks to the low pulling forces inherent to this technology, we could manufacture a quasi‐isotropic laminate with high fiber content (62% in volume). Even if just one fifth of the reinforcement was arranged longitudinally, the fiber orientation at the ±45° and 90° layers was not distorted. The in‐plane properties of this new balanced reinforcement configuration improved the impact and notched resistance compared to a reference configuration typical of conventional pultrusion, consisting of roving and continuous strand mats. Additionally, the tensile strength achieved in the transversal direction for the new configuration was an order of magnitude higher. Therefore, this novel technology has the potential to broaden the applications targeted by pultrusion to those where multiaxial load cases could be encountered.Highlights
Multiaxially reinforced profiles were made by out of die UV cured pultrusion.
These profiles presented enhanced in‐plane properties.
Impact resistance was better than that of a typical reinforcement configuration.
Notched tensile strength was also improved in both principal directions.
Progressive damage analysis of Z‐pin reinforced composite laminates based on CDM
Authors: Shi Haolin , Guo Zhangxin , Niu Weijing , Zhang Yifan , Li Yongcun , Luan Yunbo 
Published: January 2024

AbstractA RVE finite element model was developed, and the effective mechanical properties were predicted by analyzing the fine structure of Z‐pin reinforced composite laminates. A new damage criterion based on strain description is adopted, a progressive damage analysis model is established and progressive damage analysis is carried out, which provides a reference for further research on Z‐pin reinforced composites. By applying both longitudinal tensile and in‐plane shear loads to the RVE, the material strength prediction was carried out the damage evolution process was emphasized, and the stress–strain curves of the material as well as the damage modes and damage levels in different regions were finally predicted. From the damage evolution process, it can be seen that the damage in the fiber direction and the damage in the transverse direction appear the earliest and have the highest percentage of failure.Highlights
The RVE model was developed and its effective mechanical properties were predicted.
A new damage criterion is introduced, a UMAT subroutine is written, and a progressive damage model is developed.
Material strength predictions were made for the RVE and the damage evolution process was emphasized.
Prenatal diagnosis of pontocerebellar hypoplasia with postnatal follow‐up
Authors: Jaillard Alienor , Valence Stéphanie , Vande Perre Saskia , Dhombres Ferdinand , Héron Delphine , Billette de Villemeur Thierry , Keren Boris , Afenjar Alexandra , Qebibo Leila , Harion Madeleine , Quenum‐Miraillet Geneviève , Rodriguez Diana , Jouannic Jean‐Marie , Burglen Lydie , Garel Catherine 
Published: January 2024

AbstractObjectiveTo describe the MR features enabling prenatal diagnosis of pontocerebellar hypoplasia (PCH).MethodThis was a retrospective single monocentre study. The inclusion criteria were decreased cerebellar biometry on dedicated neurosonography and available fetal Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) with PCH diagnosis later confirmed either genetically or clinically on post‐natal MRI or by autopsy. The exclusion criteria were non‐available MRI and sonographic features suggestive of a known genetic or other pathologic diagnosis. The collected data were biometric or morphological imaging parameters, clinical outcome, termination of pregnancy (TOP), pathological findings and genetic analysis (karyotyping, chromosomal microarray, DNA sequencing targeted or exome). PCH was classified as classic, non‐classic, chromosomal, or unknown type.ResultsForty‐two fetuses were diagnosed with PCH, of which 27 were referred for decreased transverse cerebellar diameter at screening ultrasound. Neurosonography and fetal MRI were performed at a mean gestational age of 29 + 4 and 31 + 0 weeks, respectively. Termination of pregnancy occurred. Pregnancy was terminated in 24 cases. Neuropathological examination confirmed the diagnosis in 24 cases and genetic testing identified abnormalities in 29 cases (28 families, 14 chromosomal anomaly). Classic PCH is associated with pontine atrophy and small MR measurements decreasing with advancing gestation.ConclusionThis is the first large series of prenatally diagnosed PCHs. Our study shows the essential contribution of fetal MRI to the prenatal diagnosis of PCH. Classic PCHs are particularly severe and are associated with certain MR features.
Formation tracking control for an air–ground system under position deviations and wind disturbances
Authors: Cui Lei , Liang Shiqing , Yang Hongjiu , Zuo Zhiqiang 
Published: January 2024

AbstractIn this paper, a formation tracking control strategy based on a leader–follower structure is investigated under position deviations and wind disturbances for an air–ground system. A backstepping controller is designed to achieve the expected trajectory‐tracking performance for the leader which is a car‐like vehicle. A robust nonsingular integral terminal sliding mode formation controller based on leader–follower formation errors is presented to provide desired positions under the influence of position deviation for the follower which is a quadrotor. A backstepping‐based adaptive recursive sliding mode position controller is proposed for the follower to ensure tracking accuracy under wind disturbances. Comparison experiments with existing studies show superior performances and effectiveness of the proposed control method for the air–ground system.
Geomorphic context in process‐based river restoration
Authors: Wohl Ellen , Rathburn Sara , Dunn Sarah , Iskin Emily , Katz Aaron , Marshall Anna , Means‐Brous Mickey , Scamardo Julianne , Triantafillou Shayla , Uno Hiromi 
Published: January 2024

AbstractProcess‐based river restoration seeks to restore processes such as channel‐floodplain connectivity that create and maintain river corridor functions. Process‐based restoration can fail to produce the desired results if geomorphic context is not effectively incorporated into restoration design. Geomorphic context of a river reach refers to the controls on contemporary river form and process. Controls at the catchment‐ to reach‐scale include geologic history, biophysical characteristics, legacies of past human alterations, position within the river network, river corridor geometry, base level stability, disturbance regime, and contemporary human alterations of the river corridor. We conceptualize a river corridor as reflecting the interactions among fluxes of material and the geomorphic context. We discuss how an understanding of geomorphic context can be used to select a restoration approach and provide examples of how restoration can fail to achieve desired outcomes when geomorphic context is not considered. Within the toolbox of methods used to implement process‐based restoration, we differentiate the alteration of inputs to the river corridor and fluxes of material through the corridor from alteration of form and/or connectivity within the river corridor. Historical, biotic, geologic/geomorphic, and reference sites can be used to inform process‐based restoration targets. Restoration is strongly influenced by human perceptions of what is appropriate and achievable at a site and diverse communities influencing restoration at a site may differ in their perceptions. Geomorphically based conceptual guidelines, such as the River Styles Framework, provide an effective platform for incorporating an understanding of geomorphic context into process‐based river restoration.
An exploratory study of stakeholder views on the sustainable development of mountain tourism
Authors: Colasante Annarita , D'Adamo Idiano , De Massis Alfredo , Italiano Simone 
Published: January 2024

AbstractSustainable tourism can combine recreation for people, economic opportunities for entrepreneurs, and environmental protection, but for mountain tourism, climate change and the predicted reductions in snowfall require urgent action. Therefore, this study aims to identify sustainable mountain tourism strategies and consumption patterns using a multi‐criteria decision methodology and data collected through an online survey and expert opinions. The results show the importance of stakeholder engagement and the relevance of three strategies: (i) zero‐emission lodges; (ii) energy communities, and (iii) zero‐emission ski lifts. As well as pointing out the need for sustainability awareness and education. While respondents pay a great deal of attention to sustainability, the analysis highlights three policy interventions to safeguard mountain tourism: (i) financing the conversion of facilities; (ii) expanding infrastructure to reach mountain resorts, and (iii) rewarding consumers for choosing a certified zero‐emission resort.
Electrochemical Investigations of Sulfur‐Decorated Organic Materials as Cathodes for Alkali Batteries
Authors: Fu Qiang , Zhao Lei , Luo Xianlin , Hobich Jan , Döpping Daniel , Rehnlund David , Mutlu Hatice , Dsoke Sonia 
Published: January 2024

AbstractAlkali metal–sulfur batteries (particularly, lithium/sodium‐ sulfur (Li/Na–S)) have attracted much attention because of their high energy density, the natural abundance of sulfur, and environmental friendliness. However, Li/Na–S batteries still face big challenges, such as limited cycle life, poor conductivity, large volume changes, and the “shuttle effect” caused by the high solubility of Li/Na–polysulfides. Herein, novel organosulfur‐containing materials, i.e., bis(4‐hydroxy‐2,2,6,6‐tetramethylpiperidin‐1‐yl)disulfide (BiTEMPS‐OH) and 2,4‐thiophene/arene copolymer (TAC) are proposed as cathode materials for Li and Na batteries. BiTEMPS‐OH shows an initial discharge/charge capacity of 353/192 mAh g−1 and a capacity of 62 mAh g−1 after 200 cycles at 100 mA g−1 in ether‐based Li‐ion electrolyte. Meanwhile, TAC has an initial discharge/charge capacity of 270/248 mAh g−1 and better cycling performance (106 mAh g−1 after 200 cycles) than BiTEMPS‐OH in the same electrolyte. However, the rate capability of TAC is limited by the slow diffusion of Li‐ions. Both materials show inferior electrochemical performances in Na battery cells compared to the Li analogs. X‐ray powder diffraction reveals that BiTEMPS‐OH loses its crystalline structure permanently upon cycling in Li battery cells. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy demonstrates the cleavage and partially reversible formation of S−S bonds in BiTEMPS‐OH and the formation/decomposition of thick solid electrolyte interphase on the electrode surface of TAC.
Reconfigurable and orthogonal stiffness‐structure patterning of dynamically crosslinked amphigels
Authors: Yang Chen , Zheng Weizhong , Ni Chujun , Li Ye , Chen Di , Xie Tao , Zhao Qian 
Published: January 2024

AbstractPatterning diversified properties and surface structure of polymer materials are of great importance toward their potential in biology, optics, and electronics. However, achieving both the patternability of stiffness and microstructure in a reconfigurable manner remains challenging. Here, we prepare amphigels crosslinked by dynamic disulfide bonds, which can be reversibly swollen by immiscible water or liquid paraffin. In the paraffingel form, the materials exhibited a high modulus of 130 MPa due to densified hydrogen bonds. Whereas swollen by water, the modulus fell over two orders of magnitude owing to the destruction of the hydrogen bonds. Via regionalized swelling of the solvents, well‐controlled and rewritable soft/stiff mechanical patterns can be created. On the other hand, the dynamic exchange of the disulfide crosslinking enables mechanophoto patterning to fabricate sophisticated macrogeometries and microstructures. The reconfigurable stiffness‐structure patterning can be manipulated orthogonally, which will create more application opportunities beyond conventional hydrogels and organogels.