bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
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

Abstract
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

Abstract

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

Abstract

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

Abstract
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

Abstract

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

Abstract
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

Abstract

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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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

Abstract

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

Abstract
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

Abstract
The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.