bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prognostic factors in cervical cancer surgery: A retrospective study
Authors: Guo Xinmeng , Song Jiangnan , Tian Shuang , Li Weiping , Zhang Jinning , Yao Yuanqing
Published: February 2024

Objective
Cervical cancer is a common gynecological malignancy. However, the optimal surgical approach and benefits of uterine manipulator use remain unclear in this context. This study aimed to compare patient outcomes among different surgical approaches including laparoscopic, combined vaginal and laparoscopic, abdominal, and robotic using the da Vinci surgical system. Moreover, we also aimed to examine the impact of uterine manipulator use in radical hysterectomy on the outcomes of patients with cervical cancer.
Methods
This retrospective study included data from 848 patients with cervical cancer stage IA2-IIA2 that underwent a radical hysterectomy and pelvic lymphadenectomy at the Chinese PLA General Hospital between 2009 and 2019. Patient demographic and clinical characteristics, perioperative findings, and postoperative outcomes were examined.
Results
Patient characteristics, including body mass index, age, FIGO stage, pathological type, and tumor differentiation status and size, were comparable. Five-year survival rates were comparable among the groups that underwent different types of surgery regardless of disease stage. Five-year survival rates were comparable between the groups that underwent surgery with and without the use of a uterine manipulator.
Conclusions
All surgical approaches examined in this study had comparable efficacy and safety profiles. The use of uterine manipulators during radical hysterectomy for cervical cancer does not increase the risk of death.
Nintedanib attenuates NLRP3 inflammasome-driven liver fibrosis by targeting Src signaling
Authors: Wu Ye-ting , Li Qizhe , Wu Yi-Qi , Mu Mao , Wu Huan , Tian Hai-Ying , Zhao Xueke
Published: February 2024

Background Liver injury induces an inflammatory response that activates hepatic stellate cells, which is the initial factor of liver fibrosis. Nintedanib, a multi-targeted tyrosine kinase inhibitor targeting the Src signaling pathway, has been approved for the treatment of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. However, it is still not known whether nintedanib ameliorates liver fibrosis by inhibiting inflammasome activation.
Methods A carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced liver fibrosis model was used to assess the anti-fibrotic efficacy of nintedanib in vivo. Lipopolysaccharide and ATP were used to activate nucleotide oligomerisation domain-like receptor family pyrin domain-containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasomes in LX-2 cells, and the efficacy of nintedanib on NLRP3 inflammasome activation was evaluated. Moreover, we used Src-overexpressing and Src-downregulating lentiviruses to transfect LX-2 cells to explore the targets of nintedanib.
Results Nintedanib attenuated inflammation and extracellular matrix accumulation in CCl4-induced fibrotic livers and reduced the expression of NLRP3, fibrotic makers, the phosphorylation of Src, epidermal growth factor receptor, AKT and ERK1/2 in LX-2 cells, and nintedanib thwarted NLRP3 inflammasome activation via suppressing the phosphorylation of Src and its downstream signaling pathway and reactive oxygen species.
Conclusions Our study indicates that nintedanib effectively suppresses NLRP3 inflammasome activation and has the potential for the treatment of liver fibrosis. Keywords: Nintedanib, liver fibrosis, hepatic stellate cell, Src, NLRP3 inflammasome
Thyroid dysfunction among patients assessed thyroid function tests at a tertiary care hospital: A retrospective study
Authors: Aidoo Emmanuel Donkoh , Ababio Grace Korkor , Arko-Boham Benjamin , Tagoe Emmanuel Ayitey , aryee nii ayite
Published: February 2024

Background: Previous studies in African populations have not extensively described the spectrum of thyroid dysfunction using the profile of thyroid hormones. Although iodine deficiency is a common thyroid disorder in Africa, and yet it does not represent the entire the spectrum of thyroid dysfunction seen in patients. The aim of this retrospective study was to describe the spectrum of thyroid dysfunction among patients seen at the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital (KBTH), a tertiary care hospital in Accra, Ghana.
Methods: A retrospective analysis of medical records of all consultations on thyroid disorders seen at the Internal Medicine Department of KBTH between January 2019 and December 2021 was conducted. Information on patient demographics, and thyroid hormone profiles (triiodothyronine - FT3, thyroxine - FT4, and thyroid stimulating hormone - TSH) were extracted and subjected to descriptive statistics. Thyroid hormone profiles of subjects were analyzed and classified into thyroid dysfunction categories using guidelines of the American Thyroid Association (ATA).
Results: Out of the 215 patients with thyroid disorders enrolled, 85.1% (n = 183) were females and 14.9% (n = 32), males. The mean age of patients was 45±14 years, with most of the patients within the age range of 31-50 years (49.3%; n=106). The most reported thyroid function dysfunction was primary hyperthyroidism (57.7%), followed by primary hypothyroidism (22.3%), subclinical hyperthyroidism (9.3%), euthyroid sick syndrome (6.5%), and subclinical hypothyroidism (4.6%) respectively.
Conclusion: Primary hyperthyroidism was the most commonly diagnosed thyroid dysfunction. Hyperthyroidism has been linked with cardiac morbidity and mortality. Timely interventions are required to reduce the morbidity risks and burden associated with the hyperthyroid state.
A novel Cu-Cu2O hetero-structure for ultrasensitive detection of dopamine
Authors: Wu Jun-hui , Hou Ru-ni , Tang Si-jia , Tan Hai-hu , Du Jing-jing , Xu Li-jian , Tang Zeng-min
Published: February 2024

Herein, Cu-Cu2O heterostructure were grown in situ on the surface of Cu nanoplates by chemical etching at room temperature. A novel dopamine (DA) electrochemical sensor based on Cu-Cu2O/glass carbon electrode (Cu-Cu2O/GCE) was constructed. The Cu-Cu2O/GCE sensor showed a wide linear range of 0.001 mM to 2 mM and a low limit of detection (LOD) of 7.1 nM (S/N = 3) for DA. The improved performance of the Cu-Cu2O/GCE is attributed to the special void structure which increases the catalytic active sites and electrochemical active surface areas (ECSA). Besides, the optimization of Cu2O and Cu ratio effectively regulates the electron configuration of the Cu-Cu2O heterojunction. The Cu-Cu2O/GCE sensor also showed good reproducibility, stability, and excellent anti-interference ability.
Imaging analysis of pneumonic plague infection in Xizang, China: two case reports and literature review
Authors: Wang Wei , Li Xiaoran , Wu Jing , Fu Xiaoming , Li Binjie
Published: February 2024

Background
Plague is an acute infectious disease caused by the Yersinia pestis. Historically, it has been a major pandemic with high mortality rates, known as the "Black Death" in the 14th century, which resulted in millions of deaths in Europe. With increasing economic prosperity, more and more people are traveling to Xizang. However, this trend also hides significant safety hazards. Currently, there are few recent reports on plague, especially those with imaging manifestations available. In this study, we report the detailed clinical and radiographic data of two patients with pneumonic plague in Xizang, China, in 2023.
Case presentation:
We report two cases of pulmonary plague in Xizang, with both patients were herdsmen living in an area where dead marmots were found. Both patients presented with symptoms such as fever, hemoptysis, dyspnea and coma. Chest computed tomography (CT) scans showed multiple nodules distributed in the central regions of lung lobes, consolidation distributed in secondary pulmonary lobules, and had a gravity-dependent distribution pattern. One patient developed pleural effusion. These imaging findings are consistent with pulmonary hemorrhage and diffuse alveolar damage. Despite emergency treatment, both patients died within 24 hours of admission. Through retrospective medical history investigation and autopsy, the final diagnosis was confirmed as pulmonary plague.
Conclusion
Pneumonic plague is the most deadly infectious disease, and its pathological features are mainly include damage to the alveoli, pulmonary hemorrhage, and pulmonary edema. Corresponding to CT, it manifests as acute and rapidly progressing pneumonia, alveolar damage, and pulmonary hemorrhage. The value of this article lies in the completeness and typicality of the imaging data, vivid hand-drawn illustrations of transmission pathways, and comprehensive literature review, all of which serve to enhance public understanding of plague and play an important warning role.
In-silico analysis of nsSNPs in human CYP3A4/5 and their effects on drug-enzymes interactions of FDA-approved COVID-19 antiviral drugs: A pharmacogenetic study
Authors: Abdelazim Amro A. , Maged Mohamad , Abdelmaksoud Ahmed I. , Hassanin Sameh E.
Published: February 2024

Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) represent the prevailing form of genetic variations observed in the human population. Such variations could alter the encoded enzymes’ activities. CYP3A4/5 enzymes have a pivotal role in metabolising drugs, notably antivirals against SARS-CoV-2. In this work we computationally investigated antiviral-enzyme interactions of CYP3A4/5 genetic variants. We also examined the deleterious impact of 751 non-synonymous single nucleotide polymorphisms (nsSNPs) within the CYP3A4/5 genes. An ensemble of bioinformatics tools, [SIFT, PolyPhen, cadd, revel, metaLr, mutation assessor, Panther, SNP&GO, PhD-SNP, SNAP, Meta-SNP, FATHMM, I-Mutante, MuPro, INPS, CONSURF, GPS 5.0, MusiteDeep and NetPhos], identified a total of 94 variants (47 nsSNPs in CYP3A4, 47 nsSNPs in CYP3A5) to potentially impact the structural integrity as well as the activity of the CYP3A4/5 enzymes. Molecular docking was done to recognize the structural stability and binding properties of the CYP3A4/5 protein isoforms with 3 FDA-approved antiviral drugs. It was concluded that for the gene CYP3A4; the variants R418T, I335T and R130P while the CYP3A5 SNPs; I335T, L133P and R130Q are considered the most deleterious nsSNPs, potentially affecting drug-binding. Cataloguing deleterious SNPs is vital for personalized gene-based pharmacotherapy.
Methods to Enhance Electrical Conductivity of PEDOT:PSS-based Electrodes
Authors: Chakraborty Amrita , DiFilippo Aaron , Deivasigamani Sheena , Hong Calvin , Madwesh Anshu , Orlowski Marius
Published: February 2024

This paper extends our prior study on enhancing Poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) Polystyrene Sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS) electrical conductivity. We explore various methods, including acid treatments, metal nanoparticle doping (Cu and Ag), multiple PEDOT:PSS layer depositions, and mono/multiatomic layer graphene insertion. Our findings reveal that optimizing PEDOT:PSS multilayer depositions and the treatment with nitric acid surpasses the effectiveness of additional methods using metal nanoparticles and graphene. This optimized process not only enhances PEDOT:PSS electrical conductivity but also proves less error-prone, more stable, and more cost-effective than using graphene layers and metal nanoparticles. Optimization factors include spinning speed, etchant concentration, and etching time. Compared to a single-layer PEDOT:PSS of the same thickness, the optimized multilayer PEDOT:PSS treated with nitric acid shows a reduction in sheet resistance from 1 MΩ/sq to 7 Ω/sq. Additionally, we account for film aging to mitigate ambient-induced reliability effects.
A duo of redox-sensitive pore-loop cysteines controls the activity of the neural ion channel TRPM3
Authors: Held Katharina , Hoeymissen Evelien Van , Dallali Ilhem , Persoons Eleonora , Bazeli Bahar , Wuyts Caroline , Mulier Marie , Pinto Silvia , Janssens Annelies , Voets Thomas , Vriens Joris
Published: February 2024

Transient Receptor Potential Melastatin 3 (TRPM3) is a non-selective, Ca2+-permeable ion channel that plays a pivotal role in peripheral thermosensation and nociception. Moreover, gain-of-function variants in TRPM3 underlie a spectrum of neurodevelopmental and epileptic disorders in humans, indicating an important role of TRPM3 in the central nervous system. Oxidative stress contributes to various neurological disorders of both the central and peripheral nervous system, but it is unknown whether TRPM3 activity is altered by the cellular redox state. Here, we report a direct, bidirectional modification of TRPM3 channel activity by oxidizing and reducing agents. Our data, obtained both in a heterologous expression system and in mouse sensory neurons and pancreatic islet cells, demonstrate a profound effect of the redox state on the channel properties of TRPM3, including a robust shift in the response profile to TRPM3 agonists and antagonists and in the modulation by G protein-coupled receptors. In addition, we identified two cysteine residues in the extracellular pore loop of TRPM3 that underlie the redox-control of the channel, due to the reversible formation of intra-subunit cysteine bridges. Taken together, these findings establish a novel mechanism of TRPM3 channel modulation, with potentially important ramifications for pain signaling and neurological disorders.
Research on Digital Morphogenesis and Sustainability of 3D Printing Bionic Materials Based on Convolutional Neural Networks
Authors: Zeng Shaoting , Zhang Renshui , Cai Yifei
Published: February 2024

This study applies convolutional neural networks (CNNs) and digital morphogenesis research methods to perform biomimetic design of the morphology of 3D printed materials, furthering structural innovation based on the lightweight sustainability of biomimetic materials. Natural two-dimensional forms such as leaf veins, spider webs, and dragonfly wings are selected for digital reconstruction into three-dimensional biomimetic forms. This process involves transferring the material properties and structural advantages of natural two-dimensional biological forms to three-dimensional models. Hence, digital methods are employed to create three-dimensional representations of leaf veins, spider webs, and dragonfly wings while preserving their structural performance advantages observed in nature. CNNs style transfer technologies are utilized, employing 53 cross-sectional images of 3D models as content images for the style transfer algorithm, alongside natural two-dimensional form images as style images. This allows for the parametric reconstruction of three-dimensional biomimetic models. Finally, a series of mechanical and material performance tests are conducted to validate the mechanical and structural performance of 3D printed biomimetic structural morphologies. This study presents a research methodology for the digital reconstruction of natural two-dimensional forms into three-dimensional representations and innovatively applies digital technologies such as CNNs to material morphology research. Through the application of digital morphogenesis research methods, this study explores the sustainability and innovation of 3D printed materials.
Effects of Suillus luteus on growth promotion and root phosphorus activation and absorption of Pinus sylvestris var. Mongolica
Authors: chuyao huang , zhongxue qu , yingqian he , yongyue chen , dachuan yin
Published: February 2024

Aims: Pinus sylvestris var. Mongolica is a major afforestation tree species in northern China. However, the soil in the natural growth area of P. sylvestris var. Mongolica often lacks nutrients. Applying ectomycorrhizal fungi (ECMF) to seedlings can effectively enhance their root system's absorption of phosphorus. However, how does mycorrhizal fungi activate insoluble phosphorus elements in the rhizosphere? The purpose of this study is to explain how ectomycorrhizal fungi activate insoluble phosphorus in the rhizosphere of seedlings into soluble phosphorus, which is supplied to seedlings for absorption.
Methods：P. sylvestris var. Mongolica seedlings were inoculated with Suillus luteus to study the efficacy of ECMF on the performance of P. sylvestris var. Mongolica seedlings. At the same time, the effects of S. luteus on the activation of P in the interrhizosphere and the absorption of P in the rhizosphere of P. sylvestrisvar. Mongolica were studied by using a space-division grid device.
Results：The outcome expressed that S. luteus treatment could enhance the seedling growth. The content of cellulose and lignin increased by 9.36% and 31.16%; And the root growth was significantly improved. Inoculation with ECMF significantly reduced soil pH, and the release of acid phosphatase and organic acids led to a significant increase in soil active phosphorus content. Meanwhile, ECMF could increase P content in root and leaf of P. sylvestris var. Mongolica.
Conclusion：S. luteus can activate soil phosphorus, promote the absorption and turnover of P by P. sylvestris var. Mongolica, and improve growth potential.
A graphite foreign body granuloma that caused palatal perforation. Case report and literature review
Authors: Tosiou Athina , Kalogirou Eleni-Marina , Tosios Konstantinos , Petsinis Vasileios
Published: February 2024

Introduction: We present an unusual case of a graphite foreign body granuloma causing palatal perforation.
Case description: A 62-year-old female presented with a macule on the hard palate clinically consistent with a blue nevus. On biopsy a black nodular mass was excised, establishing oroantral communication that was verified by a computed tomography scan. A diagnosis of malignant melanoma was strongly suspected, but microscopic examination showed a graphite foreign body granuloma. It was suggested that the graphite was implanted in a thin area of the palatal bone causing perforation.
Conclusion: Graphite tattoos should be excised, both for diagnostics purposes and the possibility of causing tissue destruction by generating a foreign body granuloma reaction.
NiO-decorated rGO functional layer on the graphite felt as the negative electrode of vanadium redox flow batteries
Authors: Liu Wen-Fei , Kim Kue-Ho , Ahn Hyo-Jin
Published: February 2024

Vanadium redox flow batteries (VRFBs) are prospective energy storage medium owing to their flexible design and long lifetime. However, the problem of sluggish negative electrode dynamics of VRFBs has become a great resistance to their large-scale commercial applications. To solve this problem, we employed a facile and cost-effective approach to synthesize NiO/rGO composites using hydrothermal and calcination processes. The NiO/rGO nanocatalysts were evenly applied onto the heat-treated graphite felt (HGF) to prepare a high-performance negative electrode for VRFBs. This coating process was achieved using an ultrasonic spraying system, resulting in NiO/rGO-HGF. The NiO/rGO electrocatalysts provided enhanced adsorption characteristics of vanadium ions and sufficient redox-reactive sites, which improved electrochemical performance (9.41% higher energy efficiency of NiO/rGO-HGF compared with HGF at 160 mA cm− 2) and high cycle stability (84.7% electrolyte capacity after 100 cycles) of the VRFB cells. In conclusion, our work with the NiO/rGO-HGF anode represents a promising direction for the development of highly efficient and stable VRFB anodes for broadening commercial applications.
Predictive Integrated Groundwater Quality Index in Central Terai of Nepal for Drinking and Agriculture Use: An Advanced Geospatial Analysis with Indices (EWQI, IWQI) and ANN Modelling
Authors: Shrestha Rohit , Zhihou Zhang
Published: February 2024

The availability of clean and safe drinking water sources has come under scrutiny due to the degradation of water quality caused by a variety of anthropogenic and natural factors. In Nepal's Central Terai region, water quality is crucial to sustaining the environment and public health, 25 samples of shallow groundwater a thorough analysis were carried out to evaluate the quality of groundwater in Central Terai, Nepal, where it is crucial for fulfilling these basic requirements. To assist the integrated groundwater quality index of the study area the groundwater quality index such as Sodium Adsorption Ratio (SAR), Magnesium Absorption Ratio (MAR), Sodium Percentage (Na%), Permeability index (PI), Kelly’s ratio (KR), Irrigation water quality index (IWQI) and Entropy Weighted Water Quality Index (EWQI) was determine which sows the value of water quality is moderate (76%) to highly (16%) vulnerable of the study area. The discovery that a number of chemical characteristics, including calcium, magnesium, iron, phosphate, sodium, potassium, and salt, exceeded WHO criteria raises concerns since it may be the result of uncontrolled fertiliser usage and geological interactions. One encouraging finding was that the EWQI determined that most groundwater samples were fit for human consumption. A small percentage of the samples, nonetheless, did not meet the suggested standards, underscoring the importance of exercising caution while safeguarding this essential resource. The IWQI showed that several of the samples ware suitable when it came to irrigation. The use of Artificial Neural Network (ANN) for the prediction of the integrated groundwater quality index vulnerability is significant with the validation value R=0.998 and the regression coefficient (R2) is 0.996. To stop the quality of the groundwater from further declining and to safeguard public health, these zones need specific solutions. For, the purpose of developing efficient plans for managing water resources and mitigating causes of pollution, this research is a great resource for those in charge of making decisions in the area.
Line waves Supported by Non-Hermitian Metasurfaces Satisfying Electromagnetic Duality
Authors: Ahmadi Haddi , Ahmadi Zahra , Karimzadeh Rouhollah , Saghaei Hamed , Ghoreishi Farzaneh Sadat , Zafari Kazem , Nooshyar Mahdi , Bagheri Amirmasood
Published: February 2024

Line waves (LWs) represent unique electromagnetic (EM) modes occurring at the intersections of impedance surfaces in open space, fulfilling either electromagnetic duality or the parity-time symmetry. The line mode having singularity emerges within an extremely narrow one-dimensional channel, earning it the moniker "line waves". By employing both Hermitian and non-Hermitian impedance boundaries, LWs can be generated. However, the utilization of non-Hermitian surfaces has required maintaining the parity-time symmetry. In this study, three line-wave waveguides with non-Hermitian characteristics, founded upon the EM duality, have been introduced. We explore the advantages inherent in each structure. The capability to sustain unidirectional modes enhances structural performance along bent paths. In addition, preserving the EM duality provides the proposed waveguides with the capability to suppress backscattering so that our waveguides support non-reciprocal line modes.
Dietary salt intake and kidney function in rural Senegalese populations: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Modou Ndongo , Latou Lo Nehemie Motoula , Toure Maimouna , DIA Amadou DIOP , SECK Sidy Mohamed
Published: February 2024

Introduction
: High salt intake is a major risk factor for hypertension and its complications such as chronic kidney disease (CKD) and cardiovascular diseases. The present study aimed to determine level of sodium consumption and its relation with kidney function in the rural populations of Ferlo (centre of Senegal).
Patients and Methods
: We performed a cross-sectional study including 400 volunteers aged > 18 years. Clinical, biological and dietary data were collected during household visits. Daily sodium intake was measured in the 24h-urine outpout and CKD was defined as eGFR < 60 ml/min. Linear regression analysis was used to assess association between sodium intake and covariates.
Results
Mean age was 46.42 ± 15.60 and sex-ratio was 1.05. Prevalence of hypertension, CKD and overweight were 21.5%, 11.75% and 20.5%, respectively. The median daily salt intake was 11.7 g with interquartile range of 14.8 g. Only 11.25% of participants consumed less than 5 g/day. After multivariate analysis, high salt intake was associated with age > 60 years, overweight and CKD. However, gender and hypertension were not significantly associated with salt intake. Industrial broths (91.5%) and bread (85%) represented the main sources of dietary salt.
Conclusion
This study revealed high levels of daily salt intake contrasting with low potassium intakes in the majority of participants. Participants with CKD, overweight and age > 60 years presented higher salt consumption. Stategies to reduce salt consumption are urgently needed to reduce burden of CKD in rural Senegalese populations.
WITHDRAWN: Facile synthesis of monoclinic ammonium vanadate nanoflower and their applications for Aqueous ammonium-ion battery
Authors: Wang Junjun , Xiang Kaixiong , Wen Xiaoyu , Chen Han , Liu Jingxiong
Published: February 2024

Ammonium ions (NH4+) have gained significant attention in the field of energy storage due to their environmentally friendly nature, abundant resources, and fast diffusion. To improve the electrochemical performance of ammonium vanadate, we implemented a planar spacing approach, resulting in a highly efficient positive electrode material for aqueous ammonium ion batteries. Through our investigations, we successfully synthesized NH4V4O10 with well-controlled planar spacing. This material demonstrated impressive electrochemical properties, including a discharge specific capacity of 297 mAh g-1 at 0.5 A g-1, excellent rate performance with a capacity of 97 mAh g-1 at high current density (10 A g-1), and a large ammonium ion diffusion coefficient ranging from 2.09×10− 6 to 3.66×10− 5 cm2 S-1. To further enhance its practical application, we combined NH4V4O10 with polyaniline to assemble an aqueous ammonium ion full cell, achieving a high specific capacity of 88 mAh g-1 at 0.5 A g-1 and a remarkable energy density of 88 Wh kg-1 (at a power density of 500 W kg-1). In-situ electrochemical tests revealed that NH4V4O10 undergoes a phase transition to (NH4)1.92V3O8 during the first discharge process, and reversible hydrogen bond formation/breaking occurs during the ammoniation/deamination process. Moreover, our study successfully synthesized planar-spaced ammonium vanadate and highlights its exceptional electrochemical performance as a positive electrode material for aqueous ammonium ion batteries. The mechanistic insights gained from this study contribute to a deeper understanding of the behavior of ammonium vanadate within various structural frameworks.
Carbamazepine-responsive Double-Negative VGKC-Complex Antibody Isaac’s Syndrome – A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Separa Karl Josef Niño Jimenez , Prado Mario B.
Published: February 2024

Introduction. Isaacs syndrome (IS), commonly referred to as acquired neuromyotonia, is a rare condition characterized mainly by VGKC antibody-mediated syndrome of peripheral nerve hyperexcitability (PNH). Few case reports have documented IS patients in the absence of both LGI1 and CASPR2 antibodies (double-negative).
Case Presentation. We report a rare case of a 34-year-old healthy female, presenting with a fifteen-year history of paroxysmal leg cramping and stiffness, preceded by generalized hyperhidrosis and palpitations. Physical examination documented hyperhidrosis, myokymia and hypertrophic calf muscles. Electromyogram revealed myokymic discharges and neuromyotonic discharges – findings classically seen in Isaac’s Syndrome. To document the presence of autoantibodies against voltage-gated potassium channels, serum leucine-rich glioma inactivated protein 1 (LGI1) antibody and contactin-associated proteinlike 2 (CASPR2) antibody were done however, both turn out to be absent (double-negative). Diagnostic tests to search for an autoimmune or a paraneoplastic etiology were done, which also showed unremarkable results. Despite the unrevealing serologic and imaging tests, a diagnosis of Isaac’s syndrome was still made due to the presenting clinical features. Full resolution of symptoms was achieved upon initiation of Carbamazepine.
Conclusion. Absence of an autoimmune and a paraneoplastic syndrome is possible in IS, especially in cases with double negative autoantibody status. This is the fifth reported case in published literature of such autoantibody status and highlights the vital role of a physician’s clinical acumen when dealing with rare diseases such as Isaac’s syndrome. Knowing the cardinal features of a disease, as well as the possible phenotypic varieties allows prompt diagnosis and treatment.
RETRACTED: Heterokaryotic transition-metal dimers embedded monolayer g-C3N3 as promising anchoring and electrocatalytic materials for lithium-sulfur battery: First-principles calculations
Authors: Dong Wei , Zhu Xuanyi , Zhao Mingyuan , Chang Qiming , Gu Hao , Yang Fang , Shen Ding , Tang Shuwei , Hong Xiaodong , Ziwen Dong , Yang Shaobin
Published: February 2024

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
A System for Synthesizing Resveratrol Cocrystals Using Cocrystallization Techniques to Improve the Bio Availability of Resveratrol
Authors: Neerati Prasad , Gudimandula Rekhadevi
Published: February 2024

Sciatica, a debilitating condition arising from sciatic nerve pathology, presents challenges in its management due to its associated symptoms like radiating pain, muscle weakness, and paraesthesia. Current treatments methods often involve conservative approaches, including exercise, manual therapy, and pain management. However, there remains a need for more effective interventions that can alleviate symptoms and improve the overall quality of life for individuals suffering from this condition.Chronic Constriction Injury nerve pain induced rats received vehicle, resveratrol (50mg/kg) alone and with optimized cocrystal technology developed cocrystals of resveratrol (50 mg/kg) orally for 14 days. Thermal allodynia, cold allodynia and mechanical hyperalgesia tests performed to all animals. Blood and nerve tissues were taken for further studies. In chronic constriction injury group significantly damaged the nerve cells, increased oxidative stress and declined reduced glutathione levels observed. Resveratrol reduced these effects, but much improved attenuation of sciatic pain reversal with cellular damage was resulted with cocrystals of resveratrol. The bioavailability increased by 3.73 folds, Cmaxincreased from 93.50 ± 11.29 to 349.00 ± 29.65ng/mL and AUC increased from 913.02 ± 79.09 to 2451.25 ± 569.65ng/ml/h with cocrystals of resveratrol a much better than resveratrol. The experiment showed promising results, wherein it is found out that the synthesized resveratrol cocrystals exhibits remarkable efficacy in mitigating sciatic pain induced by chronic constriction injury (CCI), exhibiting potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The optimized development of resveratrol cocrystals with suitable conformers will be helpful in new drug development in the pain therapeutics with improved pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamics.
HER2-targeting CAR-T cells show highly efficient anti-tumor activity against glioblastoma both in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Zhang Nianzhu , Li Xueying , Li Wenzhe , Zhao Lifen
Published: February 2024

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common and aggressive malignant brain tumor in adults. Current treatment options for GBM include surgical resection, radiation, and chemotherapy, which predominantly only slow cancer growth and reduce symptoms, resulting in a 5-year survival rate of no more than 10%. Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cell therapy is a new class of cellular immunotherapies that has made great progress in the treatment of malignant tumors. Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) is over-expressed in GBM, and may provide a potential therapeutic target for GBM treatment. In this study, we constructed third-generation CAR-T cells targeting the HER2 antigen in GBM. HER2-CAR-T cells showed effective antitumor abilities both in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, HER2-specific CAR-T cells exhibited strong cytotoxicity and cytokine-secreting ability against GBM cells in vitro. Anti-HER2 CAR-T cells also exerted increasing cytotoxicity from low to high effector-to-target (E: T) ratios. Importantly, anti-HER2 CAR-T cells delivered by peritumoral injection successfully stunted tumor progression in vivo. Moreover, peritumoral intravenous administration of anti-HER2 CAR-T exhibited a therapeutic improvement against GBM cells compared with intravenous administration. In conclusion, our studies show that HER2 CAR-T cells represent an emerging immunotherapy for the treatment of GBM.
A latch-based dynamic amplifier suitable for interpolation and pipelining
Authors: Nandi Timir , Hanumolu Pavan Kumar
Published: February 2024

A latch-based dynamic amplifier is presented. The proposed amplifier is capable of achieving high reset gain to reduce the input-referred latch offset. Although in a traditional StrongARM latch, improvement in reset gain is accompanied by a subsequent degradation of the latch regeneration time constant, this trade-off is mitigated. Moreover, the proposed amplifier achieves high reset gain even in the presence of a strong reset switch, by performing explicit ‘integration’ of the input current. The proposed amplifier is suitable for interpolation and pipelining. It is used as a building block to achieve 16X interpolation factor in a flash ADC using four interpolating stages. The reduction in ADC throughput that accompanies classical interpolation methods is overcome by pipelining the interpolating stages. Fabricated in a 65nm CMOS process, the 6 b prototype ADC achieves a sampling rate of 4 GS/s, which is fastest among ADCs performing more than 2X interpolation.
Associations between the Choroid Plexus and Tau in Alzheimer’s Disease using an Active Learning Segmentation Pipeline
Authors: Li Jiaxin , Hu Yueqin , Xu Yunzhi , Feng Xue , Meyer Craig , Dai Weiying , Zhao Li
Published: February 2024

Background
The cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), primarily generated by the choroid plexus (ChP), is the major carrier of the glymphatic system. The alternations of CSF production and the ChP can be associated with the Alzheimer's disease (AD). The present work investigated the roles of the ChP in the AD based on a proposed ChP image segmentation pipeline.
Methods
A human-in-the-loop ChP image segmentation pipeline was implemented with intermediate and active learning datasets. The performance of the proposed pipeline was evaluated on manual contours by five radiologists, compared to the FreeSurfer and FastSurfer toolboxes. The ChP volume and blood flow were investigated among AD groups. The correlations between the ChP volume and AD CSF biomarkers including p-tau, t-tau, Aβ42, and Aβ40 was investigated using three models (univariate, multiple variables, and stepwise regression) on two datasets with 806 and 320 subjects.
Results
The proposed ChP segmentation pipeline achieved superior accuracy with 27.8% and 24.9% higher Dice coefficient compared to the FreeSurfer and FastSurfer. Significantly larger volumes (p < 0.001) and higher perfusion (p = 0.032) at the ChP were found in AD compared to CN groups. Significant correlations were found between the tau and the relative ChP volume (the ChP volume and ChP/parenchyma ratio) in each patient groups and in the univariate regression analysis (p < 0.001), the multiple regression model (p < 0.05 except for the t-tau in the LMCI), and in the step-wise regression model (p < 0.021). In addition, the correlation coefficients reduced from − 0.32 to -0.21 along with the AD progression in the multiple regression model. In contrast, the Aβ42 and Aβ40 shows consistent and significant associations with the lateral ventricle related measures in the step-wise regression model (p < 0.027).
Conclusions
The proposed pipeline provided accurate ChP segmentation which revealed the associations between the ChP and tau level in the AD. The proposed pipeline is available on github://xxxx.
Survey analysis of patient satisfaction and sexual issues in the management of vulvar lichen sclerosus
Authors: Meyer-Wilmes Philipp , Wittenborn Julia , Kupec Tomáš , Caspers Rebecca , Stickeler Elmar , Iborra Severine
Published: February 2024

Objective
Vulvar lichen sclerosus (VLS) is an underestimated chronic disease. It can cause significant symptom burden and sexual dysfunction. This study aimed to evaluate patient satisfaction and current challenges in the management of VLS in a certified dysplasia unit, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Methods
This survey analyzed patients who had been diagnosed with VLS and treated at our DKG-certified dysplasia unit. The study was conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic in the Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics at the University of Aachen. The questionnaire contained 43 questions covering general treatment, diagnostic delays, psychological and sexual issues and specific questions about the COVID-19 pandemic. The questionnaire was distributed between January 2021 and September 2023.
Results
This study included 103 patients diagnosed with VLS who were treated at our certified dysplasia unit. Overall, 48% of the patients were satisfied with the success of the therapy. Most participants reported psychological problems (36.8%), fear of cancer (53.3%), or sexual restrictions (53.3%). Among the patients, 38% were bothered by the regular application of topical cortisone. However, 72% were willing to undergo treatment for more than 24 months. The COVID-19 outbreak in March 2020 had a significant negative impact on general VLS care from the patient’s perspective (3,83/5 before vs. 3,67/5 after; p = 0.046). There was a general request for booklets to inform and educate patients about their disease. Furthermore, the respondents demanded a telephone hotline to answer the questions and wished for follow-up visits via e-mail to cope better with their current situation.
Conclusion
This study highlights the need for more effective treatments for VLS and an increased awareness of psychological and sexual distress. To ensure patient well-being and satisfaction, it is imperative to offer individualized care in a team of specialists from various disciplines.
Can formal home and community-based long-term care replace informal care? Evidence from Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey
Authors: Yang Wei , Wang Yixiao
Published: February 2024

Background
Formal home and community-based long-term care (LTC) are often considered the preferable option for long-term care, offering older individuals the convenience of receiving care in their homes. Research indicates that these services may alleviate the burden on informal caregivers. However, there is a lack of clarity on which specific types of formal home and community-based LTC impact informal care provision. This study aims to address this research gap by exploring the unique effects that various formal home and community based LTC services have on reducing the burden of informal care.
Methods
This study draws upon data from the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey 2005, 2008, 2011, 2014, and 2018. Employing fixed-effects and quantile regression models, this study investigates whether various forms of formal home and community-based care reduce care hours and associated costs of informal care for older individuals with functional limitations in China.
Results
Two specific types of formal care substantially influence the provision of informal care. The presence of daily living assistance services correlates with reduced informal caregiving hours, especially for those with extensive informal care needs. The availability of community-based health care services is linked to a decrease in the direct expenses incurred from informal caregiving, especially for those incurring greater direct caregiving costs. These negative effects are more prominent among urban residents. Other services, such as mental health support and legal advice services, do not demonstrate significant effects on alleviating informal care hours and costs.
Conclusions
Daily living assistance and community-based health care services in the community play a crucial role in benefiting the older individuals. It is important to prioritize the expansion of such services, while simultaneously addressing disparities in their distribution.
Unraveling the Metastatic Niche in Breast Cancer Bone Metastasis through Single-Cell RNA Sequencing
Authors: Li Xiangyu , Gao Ziyu , Yang Meiling , Yang Ciqiu , Yang Dongyang , Cui Wenhui , Wu Dandan , Zhou Jie
Published: February 2024

Breast cancer (BRCA) is characterized by a unique metastatic pattern, often presenting with bone metastasis (BoM), posing significant clinical challenges. This study employs single-cell RNA sequencing and TCGA data analysis to comprehensively compare primary tumors (PT), lymph node metastasis (LN), and BoM. Our investigation identifies a metastatic niche in BoM marked by an increased abundance of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) and reduced immune cell presence. A distinct subtype (State 1) of BRCA BoM cells associated with adverse prognosis is identified. State 1, displaying heightened stemness traits, may represent an initiation phase for BoM in BRCA. Complex cell communications involving tumor, stromal, and immune cells are revealed. Interactions of FN1, SPP1, and MDK correlate with elevated immune cells in BoM. CD46, MDK, and PTN interactions drive myofibroblast activation and proliferation, contributing to tissue remodeling. Additionally, MDK, PTN, and FN1 interactions influence FAP+ CAF activation, impacting cell adhesion and migration in BoM. These insights deepen our understanding of the metastatic niche in breast cancer BoM.
BMDB: a comprehensive database and web server for integrated single-cell bone marrow microenvironment transcriptomic data
Authors: Chen Jialin , Yu Hao , Bian Chunjing , Hu Yifei , Sui Ke , Zhang Xi , Wang Zheng
Published: February 2024

Background
The bone marrow (BM) niche is a specialized microenvironment housing the hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPC) and orchestrating hierarchical hematopoiesis pathways. However, understanding its molecular and cellular intricacies remains incomplete. Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) technology has developed into a powerful tool for investigation of BM niche heterogeneity and functional diversity.
Methods
Here, we present BMDB, the first dedicated web-based data resource of BM niche transcriptome and tools for interactive data analysis; available at http://bmdb.jflab.ac.cn:18083/app/bmdb.
Results
BMDB features two sections: (ⅰ) a well-managed database compiling 123,915 single cells derived from 45 healthy and 20 diseased samples and (ⅱ) versatile data analysis tools that allows users to perform customized analysis on built-in datasets and users’ data. BMDB also provides access to the aforementioned high-quality mouse and human single-cell reference atlases of the BM niche. The core objectives of the analysis module are to identify distinct cell types, delineate their developmental trajectories, and elucidate their potential roles in hematopoiesis, including molecular mechanisms.
Conclusion
BMDB will serve as a significant resource for the study of the BM niche by virtue of its extensive functionality and analytical capabilities.
Traumatic optic nerve avulsion and CRAO after gouging injury
Authors: Zhou Nalei , An Jianbin
Published: February 2024

Purpose: This case report gives more attention to potential risky blindness, as the complication of gouging injury. The visual prognosis of traumatic ocular injuries varies so much. Optic nerve avulsion and central retinal artery occlusion (CRAO) are the most severe one with a grave prognosis, which was rarely described in the previous reports. In this rare case, Optic nerve avulsion and CRAO concurred after finger gouging by someone else.
Case report: A 22-year-old girl complained of visual damage in the left eye after finger gouging. On her first visit to our emergent center, her visual acuity was confirmed to be no light perception in the left eye, with normal intraocular pressure and quite anterior chamber. Slit-lamp examination revealed remarkable relative afferent pupil defect (RAPD) in the left eye. Fundus examination of left eye revealed hemorrhages around optic papilla, vitreous hemorrhage in the inferior vitreous cavity, white granular substance both in the front of the optic papilla and in the inferior vitreous cavity, retinal opacification at the macula area associated with segmentation of blood column. Optical coherence tomography demonstrated the missing of superior temporal quadrant of the optic papilla, thick fiber layer of the optic nerve, the intruding vitreous body prolapse into optic nerve sheath, and edema of the inner retina. Fundus fluorescein angiography showed the presence of cilioretinal artery, the delayed filling of central retinal artery, and blockage of fluorescence by preretinal hemorrhage in the left eye. Neither optic canal nor optic nerve sheath was observer to be discontinued on computed tomography. All these findings indicated that optic nerve avulsion and CRAO had occurred. We performed implosive high-dose intravenous corticosteroid therapy, but the response was not very well, without improvement of her visual acuity. Six months later, the visual acuity in her left eye was unchanged, and gliosis developed at the avulsion site.
Conclusion: The concurrent diagnosis of traumatic ONA and CRAO is such rare and severe, and the first sight diagnosis is very challenging. OCT and FFA can provide early diagnosis of traumatic ONA and CRAO. The prognosis of traumatic ONA and CRAO is very poor, even though with large dosage of steroid, the injuries will lead to permanent visual loss. This case highlighted the on-call ophthalmologist’s awareness of ONA and CRAO after gouging injury.
Establishment and application of a laboratory safety training system based on IBM Skills Model in medical University
Authors: Zhu Xunmin , Li Lu , Qiu Chuanyu , Xia Hanfei , Ma Changling , Ying Maijing , Yuan Zhuqing
Published: February 2024

Phenomenon:Laboratory safety training is very important because laboratory is the place for experimental teaching and scientific research in medical university. Due to the huge numbers of undergraduate students each year and the limited class hours, current laboratory safety training methods were not suitable to promote among them, moreover, the interdisciplinary knowledge for graduate students may beyond their understanding.
Approach:We developed a laboratory safety training system specificly for undergraduate students based on Information, Motivation, and Behavioral Skills (IMB) to overcome the actual difficulties. This training system was combined with online and offline studies not only offering knowledge of laboratory safety but fulfilling the pathogenic biology experimental course. At end of the semester, Knowledge-Attitude-Practice(KAP) surveys and statistical analysis was performed.
Findings:This training system had been conduced to grade 2020 and grade 2021 students of Guangzhou Medical University and received high admiration. We found that the practice(P) was positively correlated with knowledge(K) and attitude(A) (p<0.05). Aside from micro video and virtual simulation program, scientific comics were the most welcomed multimedia to assist study.
Insights: Knowledges and techniques students learned from the laboratory safety training system was not only critical for their current study but will benefit their future career.