bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Effects of Ellagic Acid on Hemoglobin Ingestion, Transport, and Digestion in the Digestive Vacuole of Plasmodium falciparum
Authors: Thuduhena Anjana Chamilka , Abu-Bakar Nurhidanatasha , Hamzah Siti Nasuha 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Context:
Malaria, caused by Plasmodium parasites, has been a persistent threat to human health for centuries, causing significant illnesses and fatalities. The rise of drug-resistant strains has diminished the efficacy of conventional antimalarial medications, necessitating the exploration of alternative treatments. Ellagic acid has emerged as a promising candidate, demonstrating effectiveness in laboratory experiments by impeding beta-hematin (hemozoin) formation in mature Plasmodium falciparum stages. This research endeavors to elucidate the ellagic acid’s mechanism of action against malaria parasites by examining its impact on hemoglobin ingestion, transport, and digestion in both chloroquine-sensitive (3D7) and chloroquine-resistant (W2) P. falciparum strains in vitro.

Aim:
This study aimed to elucidate the mechanism of ellagic acid antimalarial action against 3D7 and W2 strains of P. falciparum in vitro by using a transmission electron microscope.

Materials and Methods:
3D7 and W2 strains of P. falciparum were cultured in flasks with a complete culture medium and washed red blood cells (type O+) at a hematocrit of 2%. Synchronized ring-stage parasite-infected erythrocytes, approximately 2 h post-synchronization, were utilized for the antimalarial activity assay. Based on the half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) value of ellagic acid, three different sub-lethal concentrations of the compound against the 3D7 and W2 strains. Samples were prepared for real-time microscopic analysis. Samples were immediately fixed in 2.5% glutaraldehyde in 0.2 M phosphate buffer (pH 7.4) for 2 h. Then, the samples were washed, postfixed with 2% osmium tetroxide in 0.1 M phosphate buffer for 1 h, washed with distilled water, dehydrated, infiltrated, and embedded. The sample blocks were cut by using an ultramicrotome. These thin sections were stained with 1% lead citrate and 1% uranyl acetate.

Statistical Analysis Used:
The IC50 of ellagic acid against the 3D7 and W2 parasites was analyzed using computerized GraphPad Prism 8.0 software.

Results:
Findings show significant inhibition by ellagic acid (P < 0.001) against 3D7 and W2 parasites. The IC50 values were 1.0 ± 0.7 and 1.3 ± 0.1 nM, respectively, surpassing the artemisinin’s effectiveness (IC50-3D7 parasite = 2.2 ± 0.2 nM; IC50-W2 parasite = 4.3 ± 0.3 nM). Transmission electron microscopy elucidated the ellagic acid’s impact on the early trophozoite stage of 3D7 and W2 parasites, highlighting the disruption of hemoglobin metabolism within the parasites.

Conclusion:
These findings underscore the ellagic acid’s potential as a promising antimalarial agent, targeting hemoglobin processes in both 3D7 and W2 P. falciparum strains.
Lessons Learnt from the United States Air Force during a Joint Exercise at an Indian Air Force Transport Base
Authors: Sakre Mohin M. , Dutt Manohar , Jhamb Dhiraj 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Introduction:
Combat Operations Preparedness Exercise 2023 was held between the United States Air Force (USAF) and the Indian Air Force (IAF) with the objective of enhancing the operational readiness of both countries in regard to various aspects of Aerial Combat.

Lessons Learnt:
Various aspects of Aerial Combat and op-readiness were deliberated and discussed such as Tactical Combat Casualty Care, Subject Matter Expert Exchanges on several topics such as chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear(CBRN), Fitness Classification in the USAF, decompression sickness (DCS), high altitude, and hypoxia. Aeromedical evacuation configurations were also demonstrated on board the C130J and C17. A mass casualty evacuation (CASEVAC) drill was also conducted on one of the Detachments of the base where medical teams from both countries evacuated simulated patients of varying severity on board the US aircraft. This article has brought out the lessons learned from the abovementioned lectures, discussions, and demonstrations. The knowledge gained was varyingly utilitarian such as the different practices of CASEVAC in the USAF and updated practices in CBRN disaster preparedness, different approaches in regard to DCS, high altitude, and hypoxia prevention and treatment. The IAF medical team also had the opportunity of sharing the gamut of their working and practical experiences with their US counterparts that made us efficient in our element. The US airforce personnel were impressed with the concept and workings of the Station Health Organisation. Such an organisation directed towards preventive health care and promotion of positive health is not in vogue in the USAF health care setups. The assimilated patient transport unit (PTU) of the base and the vertical litter stretcher setup of the C130 as practiced in the 87 Squadron was also palatable to the USAF personnel.

Conclusion:
The article finally concludes with recommendations that can be practically implemented in the IAF. It mentions enhancements in areas such as the PTU, CASEVAC/medical evacuation, parajumping practices, modernization of battle casualty care, and improved CBRN practices.
Conjunctival Lymphangiectasia is Likely Lymphatic–venous Lesions: A Clinicopathologic and Immunohistochemical Study
Authors: Al Ghadeer Huda , Wang Catherine , Alkatan Hind , Khandekar Rajiv , Al Maktabi Azza , Edward Deepak P. 
Published: December 2024

PURPOSE:
To report the clinical presentation, histopathological and immunohistological features of conjunctival lymphatic–venous lesions.

METHODS:
This was a retrospective review of 15 patients with symptomatic conjunctival lymphatic–venous lesions. The clinical features and histopathologic features of the excised tissues were reviewed. Immunohistochemical staining with antibodies against CD34 to label vascular endothelium and D2-40 to label lymphatic endothelium was performed.

RESULTS:
All patients had unilateral conjunctival involvement. The mean age was 48.9 ± 18.9 years, with more women affected (67%). No patient had impaired visual acuity secondary to the lesion. The location of the lesion was temporal in 67% of patients. The presenting symptoms included conjunctival swelling, discomfort and/or foreign-body sensation, and tearing. All lesions were excised, and none recurred. All excised lesions showed dilated channels that were lined by a flattened endothelium staining positive with CD34, surrounded by edematous lamina propria. Larger ectatic lymphatic channels demonstrated scattered D2-40 staining in the endothelial cell lining and patchy CD34 staining within the endothelial cell cytoplasm. D2-40 and CD-34 immunoreactivity did not overlap in the same cells.

CONCLUSION:
The clinical features and outcomes of the lesions in this large cohort were similar to those reported in the literature. However, the mixed immunoreactivity of the endothelial cells lining these ectatic lymphatic channels in the conjunctiva suggests that these channels are lymphatic–venous lesions. We suggest that these channels be termed conjunctival lymphaticovenous malformation rather than lymphangiectasia, which suggests ectasia of existing lymphatics. Future studies are needed to understand these lesions and their histopathologic origins.
Activation of adult endogenous neurogenesis by a hyaluronic acid collagen gel containing basic fibroblast growth factor promotes remodeling and functional recovery of the injured cerebral cortex
Authors: Li Yan , Hao Peng , Duan Hongmei , Hao Fei , Zhao Wen , Gao Yudan , Yang Zhaoyang , So Kwok-Fai , Li Xiaoguang 
Published: November 2024

JOURNAL/nrgr/04.03/01300535-202510000-00024/figure1/v/2024-11-26T163120Z/r/image-tiffThe presence of endogenous neural stem/progenitor cells in the adult mammalian brain suggests that the central nervous system can be repaired and regenerated after injury. However, whether it is possible to stimulate neurogenesis and reconstruct cortical layers II to VI in non-neurogenic regions, such as the cortex, remains unknown. In this study, we implanted a hyaluronic acid collagen gel loaded with basic fibroblast growth factor into the motor cortex immediately following traumatic injury. Our findings reveal that this gel effectively stimulated the proliferation and migration of endogenous neural stem/progenitor cells, as well as their differentiation into mature and functionally integrated neurons. Importantly, these new neurons reconstructed the architecture of cortical layers II to VI, integrated into the existing neural circuitry, and ultimately led to improved brain function. These findings offer novel insight into potential clinical treatments for traumatic cerebral cortex injuries.
A rare ocular phenotype associated with oculofaciocardiodental syndrome
Authors: Ratna Ria , Tiwari Anil , Ganjoo Sharika , Budhiraja Ankit , Brooks Brian P. , Vanita Vanita , Slavotinek Anne , Tibrewal Shailja 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Oculofaciocardiodental syndrome (OFCD) is a rare genetic disease affecting the ocular, facial, cardiac, and dental systems. This report describes a rare ocular phenotype in a 6-year-old female child who presented with a history of bilateral whitish appearance in the eyes, nystagmus, photoaversion, and reduced best-corrected visual acuity since birth. Ocular examination revealed broad peripheral iridocorneal adhesions and iris atrophic holes, resembling Axenfeld–Rieger spectrum, apart from the usual microcornea and congenital cataract. Extraocular features included a history of recurrent respiratory tract infections and failure to thrive in the early neonatal period, acyanotic heart disease with a large atrial septal defect, inability to supinate the right forearm since birth, asymmetric limbs, and mild facial dysmorphism. Whole-exome sequencing revealed a pathogenic nonsense variant (c. 4540C>T,p.Arg1514Ter) in BCOR gene. The BCOR gene, located on the X chromosome, is a zinc finger transcriptional repressor that plays a role in gene repression by interacting with DNA promoter regions and histone deacetylases. The precise mechanism by which the gene defect causes the ocular phenotype is poorly understood. The patient had features of anterior segment dysgenesis which has rarely been reported in OFCD. This report widens the genotypic spectrum of ASD and expands the phenotypic presentation of OFCD.
Hypertensive retinopathy as a presenting sign in phaeochromocytoma associated with Von Hippel–Lindau disease in an adolescent: A case report and literature review
Authors: Khadijah Mustafa , Wardati Hanisah Jami , Tanusha Dorairaja , Norlelawati Abu , Shatriah Ismail 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Hypertensive retinopathy is rare in adolescents, with pheochromocytoma being an uncommon cause of hypertension. We report a case of an adolescent who experienced gradual blurring of vision and headaches. Fundus examination revealed bilateral grade four hypertensive retinopathy. Further evaluation identified a right-sided pheochromocytoma and a pancreatic tumor. Genetic testing confirmed a Von Hippel–Lindau (VHL) gene mutation. The patient underwent right adrenalectomy and pancreatic nodulectomy, successfully controlling the blood pressure and improving visual acuity. This case underscores the importance of early diagnosis and prompt treatment of VHL-related pheochromocytoma in adolescents.
Mizagliflozin ameliorates diabetes induced kidney injury by inhibitor inhibit inflammation and oxidative stress
Authors: Lin Zhi-Min , Gao Han-Yuan , Shi Shu-Han , Li Yue-Ting 
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND
Mizagliflozin (MIZ) is a specific inhibitor of sodium-glucose cotransport protein 1 (SGLT1) originally developed as a medication for diabetes.
AIM
To explore the impact of MIZ on diabetic nephropathy (DN).
METHODS
Diabetic mice were created using db/db mice. They were administered either a low dose (0.5 mg/kg) or a high dose (1.0 mg/kg) of the SGLT1 inhibitor MIZ via stomach gavage for 8 weeks. Subsequently, mesangial cells (MCs) were isolated and subjected to high glucose conditions in culture to assess the effects of MIZ on DN.
RESULTS
The results showed that low doses of MIZ significantly reduced albuminuria to a level comparable to that achieved with high doses in db/db mice. High doses of MIZ led to a substantial increase in body weight in mice, along with decreased blood glucose levels and food intake. Moreover, the intervention with high-dose MIZ notably decreased the expression of extracellular matrix genes, such as collagen type 1 alpha 1 mRNA levels. While the expression of SGLT1 increased after exposure to high glucose, it decreased following treatment with MIZ. Furthermore, MIZ intervention was more effective in improving lactate dehydrogenase levels in MCs induced by high glucose compared to canagliflozin. MIZ also significantly elevated levels of antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione, while reducing malondialdehyde levels.
CONCLUSION
These findings indicate that MIZ can ameliorate DN by inhibiting SGLT1, inflammation, and oxidative stress.
Association of the glycemic background patterns and the diabetes management efficacy in poorly controlled type 2 diabetes
Authors: Erbakan Ayşe N , Arslan Bahadır Müzeyyen , Kaya Fatoş N , Güleç Büşra , Vural Keskinler Miraç , Aktemur Çelik Ümmügülsüm , Faydalıel Özge , Mesçi Banu , Oğuz Aytekin 
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND
Inadequate glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) is a major public health problem and a significant risk factor for the progression of diabetic complications.
AIM
To evaluate the effects of intensive and supportive glycemic management strategies over a 12-month period in individuals with T2DM with glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) ≥ 10% and varying backgrounds of glycemic control.
METHODS
This prospective observational study investigated glycemic control in patients with poorly controlled T2DM over 12 months. Participants were categorized into four groups based on prior glycemic history: Newly diagnosed, previously well controlled with recent worsening, previously off-target but now worsening, and HbA1c consistently above 10%. HbA1c levels were monitored quarterly, and patients received medical, educational, and dietary support as needed. The analysis focused on the success rates of good glycemic control and the associated factors within each group.
RESULTS
The study showed significant improvements in HbA1c levels in all participants. The most significant improvement was observed in individuals newly diagnosed with diabetes: 65% achieved an HbA1c target of ≤ 7%. The results varied between participants with different glycemic control histories, followed by decreasing success rates: 39% in participants with previously good glycemic control, 21% in participants whose glycemic control had deteriorated compared to before, and only 10% in participants with persistently poor control, with mean HbA1c levels of 6.3%, 7.7%, 8.2%, and 9.7%, respectively. After one year, 65.2% of the “newly diagnosed patients”, 39.3% in the “previously controlled group”, 21.9% in the “previously off-target but now worsened'” group and 10% in the “poorly controlled from the start” group had achieved HbA1c levels of 7 and below.
CONCLUSION
In poorly controlled diabetes, the rate at which treatment goals are achieved is associated with the glycemic background characteristics, emphasizing the need for tailored strategies. Therefore, different and comprehensive treatment approaches are needed for patients with persistent uncontrolled diabetes.
Risk factors for developing osteoporosis in diabetic kidney disease and its correlation with calcium-phosphorus metabolism, FGF23, and Klotho
Authors: Yang Fan , Wu Yan , Zhang Wei 
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND
The progression of diabetic kidney disease (DKD) affects the patient’s kidney glomeruli and tubules, whose normal functioning is essential for maintaining normal calcium (Ca) and phosphorus (P) metabolism in the body. The risk of developing osteoporosis (OP) in patients with DKD increases with the aggravation of the disease, including a higher risk of fractures, which not only affects the quality of life of patients but also increases the risk of death.
AIM
To analyze the risk factors for the development of OP in patients with DKD and their correlation with Ca-P metabolic indices, fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23), and Klotho.
METHODS
One hundred and fifty-eight patients with DKD who were admitted into the Wuhu Second People’s Hospital from September 2019 to May 2021 were selected and divided into an OP group (n = 103) and a normal bone mass group (n = 55) according to their X-ray bone densitometry results. Baseline data and differences in Ca-P biochemical indices, FGF23, and Klotho were compared. The correlation of Ca-P metabolic indices with FGF23 and Klotho was discussed, and the related factors affecting OP in patients with DKD were examined by multivariate logistic regression analysis.
RESULTS
The OP group had a higher proportion of females, an older age, and a longer diabetes mellitus duration than the normal group (all P < 0.05). Patients in the OP group exhibited significantly higher levels of intact parathyroid hormone (iPTH), blood P, Ca-P product (Ca × P), fractional excretion of phosphate (FeP), and FGF23, as well as lower estimated glomerular filtration rate, blood Ca, 24-hour urinary phosphate excretion (24-hour UPE), and Klotho levels (all P < 0.05). In the OP group, 25-(OH)-D3, blood Ca, and 24-hour UPE were negatively correlated with FGF23 and positively correlated with Klotho. In contrast, iPTH, blood Ca, Ca × P, and FeP exhibited a positive correlation with FGF23 and an inverse association with Klotho (all P < 0.05). Moreover, 25-(OH)-D3, iPTH, blood Ca, FePO4, FGF23, Klotho, age, and female gender were key factors that affected the lumbar and left femoral neck bone mineral density.
CONCLUSION
The Ca-P metabolism metabolic indexes, FGF23, and Klotho in patients with DKD are closely related to the occurrence and development of OP.
Betaine combined with traditional Chinese medicine ointment to treat skin wounds in microbially infected diabetic mice
Authors: Xu Wen-Yan , Dai Yuan-Yuan , Yang Shi-Xian , Chen Hao , Huang Yan-Qiang , Luo Pei-Pei , Wei Zhong-Heng 
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND
Skin wounds are highly common in diabetic patients, and with increasing types of pathogenic bacteria and antibiotic resistance, wounds and infections in diabetic patients are difficult to treat and heal.
AIM
To explore the effects of betaine ointment (BO) in promoting the healing of skin wounds and reducing the inflammation and apoptosis of skin cells in microbially infected diabetic mice.
METHODS
By detecting the minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of betaine and plant monomer components such as psoralen, we prepared BO with betaine as the main ingredient, blended it with traditional Chinese medicines such as gromwell root and psoralen, and evaluated its antibacterial effects and safety in vitro and in vivo . The skin infection wound models of ordinary mice and diabetic mice were constructed, and the OTC drugs mupirocin ointment and Zicao ointment were used as controls to evaluate the antibacterial effects in vivo and the anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic effects of BO.
RESULTS
The MICs of betaine against microorganisms such as Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus ), Candida albicans and Cryptococcus neoformans ranged from 4 to 32 μg/mL. Gromwell root and psoralea, both of which contain antimicrobial components, mixed to prepare BO with MICs ranging from 16 to 64 μg/mL, which is 32-256 times lower than those of Zicao ointment, although the MIC is greater than that of betaine. After 15 days of treatment with BO for USA300-infected ordinary mice, the wound scab removal rates were 83.3%, while those of mupirocin ointment and Zicao ointment were 66.7% and 0%, respectively, and the differences were statistically significant. In diabetic mice, the wound scab removal rate of BO and mupirolacin ointment was 80.0%, but BO reduced wound inflammation and the apoptosis of skin cells and facilitated wound healing.
CONCLUSION
The ointment prepared by mixing betaine and traditional Chinese medicine can effectively inhibit common skin microorganisms and has a strong effect on the skin wounds of sensitive or drug-resistant S. aureus -infected ordinary mice and diabetic mice.
Clinicopathological presentation of liver abscesses and hydatid liver disease from two South African tertiary hospitals
Authors: Pillay Krevosha , Khan Zafar Ahmed , Nweke Ekene Emmanuel , Omoshoro-Jones Jones 
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND
Hepatic abscesses represent infections of the liver parenchyma from bacteria, fungi, and parasitic organisms. Trends in both abscess microbiology and management of abscesses (infective collections) have changed over the past decade. There is a paucity of published data regarding the clinicopathological features of liver abscesses in sub-Saharan Africa and other low-income and middle-income countries.
AIM
To evaluate the clinical presentations of liver abscesses and hydatid liver disease at two South African tertiary-level hospitals.
METHODS
Information accessed from electronic discharge summaries of patients from two South African referral hospitals in Johannesburg, South Africa from January 2016 to December 2020 were reviewed and analyzed. All patients older than 13 years presenting with infective liver collections (pyogenic, amoebic) and hydatid disease were included. Clinical findings and laboratory, microbiology, and radiology results and outcomes were collated and analyzed.
RESULTS
In total, 222 patients were included. There were 123 males (55.41%) and 99 females (44.59%), with a median age of 48 years. Comorbidities included HIV (24.23%), hypertension (20.57%), and diabetes mellitus (16.83%). The majority (74.77%) of abscesses were pyogenic, while amoebic and hydatid abscesses represented 16.22% and 9.01%, respectively. The predominant etiology of the pyogenic liver abscesses (PLA) was biliary-related disease. WBC and C-reactive protein were significantly higher in the pyogenic group (P < 0.0002 and P < 0.007, respectively) when compared to the amoebic and hydatid groups. In patients with PLAs, organisms were cultured on blood in 17.58% and abscess fluid in 56.60%. Klebsiella , Escherichia coli and Streptococci were the most cultured organisms. Sixteen percent of the cultures were polymicrobial. In the overall group, 76.00% (n = 169) of patients requiring drainage had a percutaneous transhepatic catheter drain placed, while 8.76% (n = 19) had open surgery. The median length of hospital stay was 13 days. The mortality rate was 3.02%.
CONCLUSION
In this study, the most common type of liver abscess was PLAs of biliary origin in middle-aged males. The microbiology was similar to those described in Asian populations, and non-surgical management via percutaneous drainage was sufficient in the majority of cases with acceptable morbidity and mortality.