bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Nanobubble Generation from Laser-Illuminated Gold Nanoparticles
Authors: Sharma Yatha , Ohl Claus-Dieter , Rosselló Juan Manuel 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

This study builds on a novel method pioneered by our group for on-demand nanobubble generation using a collimated laser beam, emphasizing how the controlled addition of gold nanoparticles enhances nanobubble generation efficiency in water at sub-threshold laser intensities. Specifically, we examined the influence of nanoparticles of three distinct sizes on the laser fluence threshold for bubble nucleation and the lifetime of the resultant nanobubbles. Our results indicate that nanoparticles with a diameter of 60 nm exhibit the greatest nucleation efficiency, achieving nearly 45 % at a fluence threshold of around 70 (± 11) mJ/cm2. Notably, the size of the nanoparticles tested does not influence the lifetime of the nanobubbles.
Effects of one promising nanoporous MCM41 insecticide formulation on Sitophilus oryzae (L.) at the higher physiological and molecular level
Authors: Bose Rahul , Sil Moumita , Ghosh Rakesh , Adhikary Archisman , Ray Mausumi , Ghosh Ankita , Adak Serene , Chatterjee Ishita , Goswami Arunava 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Scientific progress and awareness about the environmental, veterinary, and human health hazards associated with the use of synthetic pesticides have given huge impetus for generation of eco-friendly pesticides without mammalian toxicity. Nanoporous MCM41 (Mobil Composition of Matter No. 41) based pesticide possesses many of the desirable qualities of model pesticides. We earlier showed in this journal that 99.5% pure nanosilica act as effective insecticide in controlling stored grain pests like Sitophilus oryzae (L.) at lower relative humidity (r. h.) level, but fails to act in environments where r. h. is equal to or more than 70%. Nanoporous MCM41 have been shown to control stored grain pests like S. oryzae at higher r.h. (60–80% range). We earlier observed the action of nanoporous MCM41 formulations on different stored product insect pests causing mortality by contact toxicity. The primary action of nanoporous MCM41 is desiccation of insects by destruction of the epicuticle layers which function as `water barrier’. Concerning our previous findings that DE does not block the stigmata small particle may be able to enter the tracheae. Due to this we analyzed expression of regulator genes in the tracheae after one day and 7 day exposure of S. oryzae to 2 or 4 g per kg grain. Using immuno-cytochemistry, electron microscopy, and SQ RT-PCR, we followed the expression level of Jing, Ras1, Formin3, F-actin, Vilse, Robo, FGF, PAP-1, Met, Notch, and Dpp in S. oryzae. We showed that application of NANOPOROUS MCM41up regulates the expression of Jing, Formin3, F-actin, Robo, and Notch from the first day compared to 7 days after application. The expression of FGF, PAP-1, Dpp, and Met was down regulated after treatment and Ras-1 as well as Vilse remained unchanged. Therefore, the action of nanoporous MCM41 interferes with the equilibrium of expression of several instructional regulator genes of normal growth and development in S. oryzae tracheae and causes death.
WITHDRAWN: SMILE and ICL implantation on the ocular surface and meibomian glands in patients with postoperative myopia
Authors: Yao Juan , Feng Jianghong , Li Weijie , Liu Chang , Li Yanlei , Wang Xiaoying 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

The full text of this preprint has been withdrawn by the authors due to author disagreement with the posting of the preprint. Therefore, the authors do not wish this work to be cited as a reference. Questions should be directed to the corresponding author.
Predicting multi-parametric dynamics of an externally forced oscillator using reservoircomputing and minimal data
Authors: Yadav Manish , Chauhan Swati , Shrimali Manish , Stender Merten 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Mechanical systems exhibit complex dynamical behavior from harmonic oscillations to chaotic motion. The dynamics undergo qualitative changes due to changes to internal system parameters like stiffness and changes to external forcing. Mapping out complete bifurcation diagrams numerically or experimentally is resource-consuming, or even infeasible. This study uses a data-driven approach to investigate how bifurcations can be learned from a few system response measurements. Particularly, the concept of reservoir computing (RC) is employed. As proof of concept, a minimal training dataset under the resource constraint problem of a Duffing oscillator with harmonic external forcing is provided as training data. Our results indicate that the RC not only learns to represent the system dynamics for the external forcing seen during training, but it also provides qualitatively accurate and robust system response predictions for completely unknown multi-parameter regimes outside the training data. Particularly, while being trained solely on regular period-2 cycle dynamics, the proposed framework correctly predicts higher-order periodic and even chaotic dynamics for out-of-distribution forcing signals.
Robotically assisted mitral valve repair using the butterfly technique in a patient with a narrow chest.
Authors: Tatsuki Suguru , Hashimoto Makoto , Koshima Ryuji 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background: Minimally invasive cardiac surgery for management of mitral regurgitation is challenging in patients with narrow chests due to limited thoracic space. The butterfly technique can prevent systolic anterior motion in patients with degenerative mitral regurgitation and redundant posterior leaflets, but it is difficult to perform via minimally invasive cardiac surgery. Few reports have described mitral valve repair using the butterfly technique or in a narrow chest. This case report demonstrates the feasibility and utility of robotically assisted mitral valve repair using the butterfly technique in a patient with a narrow chest, addressing the challenges involved through innovative port insertion and visualization.
Case Presentation: A 70-year-old woman with a narrow chest (58 mm from spine to sternum) presented with shortness of breath on exertion. Transesophageal echocardiography revealed severe mitral regurgitation with posterior leaflet prolapse. Robotically assisted mitral valve repair was performed. Skin incisions were made in the third, fourth, and sixth intercostal spaces on the right anterior axillary line. A port for the atrial retractor was placed slightly medial to the right mid-clavicular line in the fifth intercostal space, inserted more shallowly than usual to achieve mitral valve exposure. The P2 leaflet was resected and reconstructed using the butterfly technique. Mitral annuloplasty was performed with a semirigid partial band. The patient was discharged 6 days postoperatively with excellent valve function. One year later, she remained asymptomatic without obvious mitral regurgitation.
Conclusions: Robotically assisted mitral valve repair using the butterfly technique is feasible in patients with narrow chests. Robotic assistance facilitates mitral valve exposure and manipulation in challenging anatomical conditions through enhanced dexterity and visualization. Careful examination of the mitral valve, accurate resection, and assessment of the repair are key aspects of successful implementation. Further studies with larger sample sizes and longer follow-up periods are needed to confirm the effectiveness and durability of this approach. As robotically assisted surgery becomes more common, its applications to additional complex situations should be further explored.
Machine learning-guided evolution of pyrrolysyl-tRNA synthetase for improved incorporation efficiency of diverse noncanonical amino acids
Authors: Yu Haoran , Zhang Qunfeng , Cheng Jingxi , Ding Haote , Chen Binbin , Jiang Ling , Liu Ke , Ye Shilin , Yang Lirong , Wu Jianping , Xu Gang , Lin Jianping 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

The pyrrolysyl-tRNA synthetase (PylRS)/tRNACUA pair is one of the most widely used systems for the incorporation of noncanonical amino acids (ncAAs) into proteins at specific positions. Although directed evolution of PylRS have enabled over 300 ncAAs to be incorporated into proteins, most of the ncAA-containing proteins are expressed in a limited yield due to low activities of PylRS variants. Here, we applied machine learning (ML) to engineer the tRNA-binding domain of PylRS with a fast Fourier transform-partial least square regression (FFT-PLSR) model and three zero-shot prediction ML models. FFT-PLSR was first applied to explore a sequence space composed of pairwise combinations of 12 single mutations, and the best variant, Com1-IFRS, showed an 11-fold increase in activity compared to IFRS, a PylRS variant. The deep learning models ESM-1v, Mutcompute, and ProRefiner were then used to identify new mutation sites impacting the activity of Com1-IFRS. FFT-PLSR was used again to identify a variant, Com2-IFRS, from a sequence space containing 11520 mutations, which showed a 30-fold increase in activity. Com2-IFRS also enhanced enzyme activity against 12 other ncAAs by up to 3944.8-fold. Transplantation of the evolved mutations into 7 other PylRS-derived synthetases improved yields of proteins containing six types of ncAAs, including derivatives of Phe, Tyr, Trp, Cys, His and Lys, by up to 1149.7-fold. Molecular dynamics simulations revealed that mutations reshaped the hydrogen bond network between tRNA and protein, which increased tRNA binding affinity, shortened the reaction distance between tRNA and ncAA, and even enhanced the dynamics correlation network. This paper offers new PylRS variants that increase the utility of the orthogonal translation system and provide a machine learning framework for identifying optimized multiple-point combinatorial mutations in a vast sequence space.
Genome assembly and population analysis of tetraploid Tylosema esculentum (marama) reveal two district genomes.
Authors: LI JIN , Cullis Christopher 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Tylosema esculentum (marama bean), is an underutilized orphan legume with potential for domestication as a food crop to improve local food security. Thriving in the desert environments of southern Africa, it offers insights into plant adaptation to extreme conditions. In this study, 21.6 Gb PacBio HiFi data were assembled into a tetraploid genome of 1.24 Gb using Canu, achieving an N50 of 1.28 Mb and over 99% BUSCO completeness. Repeats constituted 27.35% of the genome. k-mer analysis suggested an autotetraploid or ancient allotetraploid genome for marama, with a compact haplotype genome size of 277 Mb. Phylogenetic analysis revealed a close relationship to Bauhinia variegata, diverging approximately 25.14 million years ago (MYA). Whole genome duplication (WGD) analysis indicated an ancient duplication event in marama. Enriched species-specific genes were involved in DNA processes, protein functions, and stress response pathways, highlighting their potential roles in marama’s adaption to diverse environments. The population study identified two distinct clusters, but additional phenotyping is required to assess whether these genomic differences are reflected in biological performance. This is the first high-quality genome assembly of marama, albeit unphased, represents a significant advancement in understanding marama's genomics.
Spatiotemporal Hybrid Asymptotic Framework for Human Motion Prediction
Authors: Li Xiaoshan , Gao Ang , Feng Kaixuan , Zhao Fengda , Jia Zhuolin 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Skeleton-based human motion prediction involves predicting forthcoming human motion skeleton sequences by analyzing historical human motion skeleton sequences. Through extensive experiments, we found that integrating the methods of temporal asymptotic and spatial asymptotic into a multi-stage model reduces the severity of changes in action sequences during propagation between stages, thereby making it easier to predict future human action sequences and enhancing the accuracy of the multi-stage model's predictions. This paper proposes a spatiotemporal hybrid asymptotic framework that gradually approaches the target ground truth value from both temporal and spatial dimensions. To address the challenge of a single network inadequately capturing all relationships between human joints, we embed inter-joint correlation features into multiple feature extraction spaces during spatial feature extraction. This approach, named the Dynamic Scattering Method, allows for the independent training of graph attention matrices, effectively enhancing the framework's spatial feature extraction capability. We conducted extensive experiments on the Human3.6M, Carnegie Mellon University Motion Capture, and Three-Dimensional Human Pose in the Wild datasets, achieving optimal results.
Examination of Personality Traits and Their Relationship with Self-Control among Nurses Working in Emergency Departments of Hospitals in Kermanshah City
Authors: safavi safura , Jalali Amir , Veisimiankali Mohmmadjavad , Salari Nader , Mahvar Tayebeh 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background
Personality traits have a consistent influence on professional and occupational behaviors. Based on these traits, it is possible to predict an individual's specific behaviors in diverse work-related and occupational contexts. Furthermore, personality traits are essential contributing factors in the development of self-control. Therefore, the present study aimed to assess the prevalence of personality traits and their association with self-control among nurses employed in the emergency departments of hospitals in Kermanshah during
Methods
The study was a cross-sectional analytical investigation. The statistical sample comprised 154 nurses employed in the emergency department. Participants were selected using convenience sampling for the study. Data collection was conducted using questionnaires. Upon obtaining informed consent from the participants, the questionnaires were distributed to the study subjects. All participants filled out a demographic form, the Nikmanesh Self-control Questionnaire, and the NEO Five-Factor Inventory (NEO-FFI). The data were analyzed with SPSS software, version 25, utilizing suitable statistical tests.
Results
The research findings revealed a significant relationship between the components of personality traits and self-control among nurses. These personality traits can elucidate the levels of self-control in nurses employed in emergency departments. Furthermore, all sub-scales of self-control, except impulsivity and risk-taking behavior, demonstrated a significant negative correlation with personality traits.
Conclusion
The findings of this study suggest that personality traits significantly influence the self-control of nurses. Notably, stronger personality traits in all dimensions, barring neuroticism, are inversely related to the self-control scores of nurses. Consequently, to improve the performance and job quality of nurses, it is recommended that substantial revisions be implemented in the educational curriculum. Additionally, recruitment and employment processes for nurses should consider cultural factors, personality traits, and individual preferences.
Transposon mediated functional genomic screening for BRAF inhibitor resistance reveals convergent Hippo and MAPK pathway activation events
Authors: Chen Li , Pruteanu-Malinici Iulian , Dastur Anahita , Yin Xunqin , Frederick Dennie , Sadreyev Ruslan , Benes Cyril 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Genotype-informed anticancer therapies such as BRAF inhibitors can show remarkable clinical efficacy in BRAF-mutant melanoma; however, drug resistance poses a major hurdle to successful cancer treatment. Many resistance events to targeted therapies have been identified, suggesting a complex path to improve therapeutics. Here, we showed the utility of a piggyBac transposon activation mutagenesis screen for the efficient identification of genes that are resistant to BRAF inhibition in melanoma. Although several forward genetic screens performed in the same context have identified a broad range of resistance genes that poorly overlap, an integrative analysis revealed a much smaller functional diversity of resistance mechanisms, including reactivation of the MAPK pathway, PI3K-AKT pathway, and Hippo pathway, suggesting that a relatively small number of therapeutic strategies might overcome resistance manifested by a large gene set. Moreover, we illustrated the pivotal role of the Hippo pathway effector WWTR1 (TAZ) in mediating BRAF inhibition resistance through transcriptional regulation of receptor tyrosine kinases and through interactions with the E3 ubiquitin ligase NEDD4L.
Investigating Africa Decarbonization Strategies: Evaluating the Pathway to Net-Zero by 2050-2060
Authors: Olatunde Dare Ebenezer , Hampo Chima Cyril , Akinlawon Abigail Pelumi , Odobulu Ogechukwu Benedicta , Afanwoubo Bamidele James 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Climate change poses significant challenges to global stability, particularly for African nations, which, despite contributing minimally to global emissions, face disproportionate climate impacts. This study evaluates the effectiveness of the Long-Term Low Greenhouse Gas Emission Development Strategies (LT-LEDS) submitted by seven African countries, assessing their alignment with the Paris Agreement's goal of achieving net-zero emissions by mid-century. Utilizing a comprehensive methodology that includes both qualitative and quantitative measures, the study examines critical aspects such as strategy formulation, target setting, investment planning, and policy implementation. The findings reveal substantial variability in the quality and clarity of the submitted LT-LEDS, with only a minority of countries establishing clear and actionable goals. Additionally, the analysis highlights significant gaps in the setting of ambitious GHG reduction targets and the integration of socio-economic considerations into decarbonization plans. The study underscores the urgent need for increased commitment, enhanced legal frameworks, and stronger stakeholder engagement to ensure the successful implementation of LT-LEDS across the continent. By addressing these challenges, African nations can make meaningful progress toward sustainable development and contribute more effectively to global climate change mitigation efforts.
Evaluation in silico of the (pBthTX-I)2K Peptide as a SARS-CoV-2 PL proProtease inhibitor
Authors: Faria Marcus V. H , Silva Raphael S. F , Federico Leonardo B , Sant'Anna Carlos M R , Costa Luciano T 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Context
Since 2019, the COVID-19 pandemic, caused by SARS-CoV-2, has resulted in millions of cases and deaths worldwide. The virus has various essential proteins for its replication and immune evasion, including non-structural protein 3 (nsp3), which encodes the papain-like protease (PLpro). PLpro plays a crucial role in processing the viral polyprotein pp1a and in interfering with the immune system through deubiquitination, making it a strategic target for antiviral development. Inhibiting PLpro is particularly relevant as it can block viral replication and modulate the immune response, interfering with the progression of the infection. In this context, our study investigated the inhibitory potential of a non-toxic dimeric peptide derived from Bothopstoxin-I, (pBthTX-I)2K, as an inhibitor of SARS-CoV-2 PLpro.
Methods
The investigation utilized molecular docking techniques and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations to analyze the interactions of the peptide (pBthTX-I)2K with SARS-CoV-2 PLpro. The structural model of PLpro was constructed based on crystallographic data and validated through homology modeling. Docking analysis was performed using the HPEPDOCK software, revealing a high binding affinity between (pBthTX-I)2K and PLpro, with binding scores of -197.6 kcal.mol-1 for the homology model (MPL) and − 197.0 kcal.mol-1 for the crystallographic model (CPL). The primary interactions between the peptide and PLpro were analyzed, highlighting the formation of hydrogen bonds and hydrophobic interactions with key enzyme residues. To assess the stability of the formed complexes, molecular dynamics simulations were conducted for 300 ns, utilizing the appropriate force field for proteins and peptides, confirming the reliability of the homology model (MPL) in comparison to the crystallographic model (CPL).
Evidence against a cortical module for processing communicative gaze
Authors: Görner Marius , Dicke Peter W , Thier Peter 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Apart from language, our gaze is arguably the most important means of communication. Where we look lets others know what we are interested in and allows them to join our focus of attention. In several studies our group investigated the neuronal basis of gaze following behavior in humans and macaques and described a gaze following patch (GFP) in the posterior temporal cortex as being of central importance for this function. To our knowledge, this makes the GFP the most promising neurobiological correlate of Simon Baron-Cohen’s eye direction detector (EDD), an integral part of his influential mindreading system. With the latter, Baron-Cohen proposed a set of domain-specific neurocognitive modules implementing a functional framework he suggested to be necessary to establish a Theory of Mind - the attribution of mental states to others. The tenet of domain-specificity requires that the EDD processes only and exclusively eye-like stimuli with their typical contrast and movement properties. In this preregistered fMRI study, we aimed to critically test if the GFP fulfills this criterion. Specifically, we tested if it is equivalent to or different from the visual motion processing areas located in the same part of the brain. Contrary to previous studies, the present results clearly demonstrate that GFP activity is not exclusively correlated with the perception of other people’s gaze direction and thus does not fulfill the criterion of domain-specificity. Furthermore, we show that it cannot be functionally dissociated from the MT+ complex, with which it overlaps anatomically. Given that our experiments captured the full extent of gaze-following behavior and were specifically designed to reveal an EED, our results provide evidence against its existence, and therefore against Baron-Cohen's mindreading model as a set of domain-specific modules.
Synthesis, in-silico biochemical properities and in-vitro antibacterial activity of 3- (benzylimino)-1-((alkyl/cyclo amino) methyl)isoindolin-2-one Derivatives
Authors: Asif Mohammad , Abdulaziz Osama , Almehmadi Mazen , Aljuaid Abdulelah 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

The synthesis of 3-(benzylimino)indolin-2-one or Schiff base (1) The 3-(benzylimino)-1-((alkyl/ cyclo sec. amino)methyl)isoindolin-2-one or Mannich bases (2a-e) derived from Indoline-2,3-dione and benzylimino by Mannich reaction and evaluated its and in-vitro antibacterial activity against B. subtilis, S. aureus, P. aeruginosa and E. coli bacteria by disc diffusion and well diffusion techniques and ciprofloxacin was used as a standard drug. The compound (1) was synthesized from Indoline-2,3-dione and benzylamine. The Mannich bases (2a-e) were synthesized by the reaction of compound (1) with appropriate secondary amines (dimethylamine, diethylamine, piperazine, 4-methyl-piperazine, and morpholine) in the presence of formaldehyde at room temperature. All the synthesized compounds were identified using FTIR, 1HNMR, mass spectroscopy, and elemental analytical studies. The in-vitro anti-bacterial activity, compounds 2a, and 2b exhibited good activity at a dose of 50 and 100 µg/0.1 ml. The synthesized Mannich bases (2a-e) showed varying degrees of antibacterial activity against the tested bacteria. All these synthesized compounds were tested in-silico for determine the biochemical properties and toxic profile. The findings imply that more research is necessary to maximize the efficacy of Mannich bases against pathogenic microbes.