bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Development and Optimization of Polymeric Nanoparticles and their
In vitro Deposition Studies Using Modified TSI
Authors: Rane Bhushan R. , Waghchaure Pranit S. , Amkar Akash J. , Jain Ashish R. 
Published: April 2024

Background:
To deliver the drug through the pulmonary route, polymers like oleoylcarboxymethyl
chitosan (O-CMC), chitosan, and HPMC (hydroxypropyl methylcellulose) K4M are
well known for their effective mucoadhesive properties. Drug-loaded polymeric nanoparticles have
the potential for a therapeutic response for the targeted site is a beneficial approach.

Objective:
The present study is to develop polymeric nanoparticles (PNPs) utilizing mucoadhesive
polymers with varying concentrations as well as to develop the PNPs for pulmonary delivery.

Methods:
Polymeric nanoparticles are developed by homogenization and solvent evaporation methods
and characterized by modified twin-stage impinger to study in vitro deposition.

Results:
The characterization of pirfenidone-loaded polymeric nanoparticles (PFD-PNPs) reveals
that the mean particle size of O-CMC-PNPs is 140.8 nm ± 20, found to be less than CS-PNPs and
HPMC-PNPs. The polydispersibility index reveals that the particles of all prepared formulations are
homogenous. At the same time, the zeta potential of O-CMC-PNPs is 40.8 mV ± 5.64, and the entrapment
efficiency is 91% ± 1.2, which is better as compared to Chitosan and HPMC K4M PNPs
and makes them efficient for pulmonary delivery. Findings from the in vitro deposition study using
modified TSI show that 88.5% of the drug delivered through nebulization from both the stage of
right and left sides of the TSI suggests effective deposition in the lungs of O-CMC PNPs, and it may
move to the deeper regions because of the lowest diameter of the particles. Sustaining release of the
drug was found in the O-CMC PNPs for 8 hours, compared with 5 and 7 hours for HPMC PNPs and
Chitosan PNPs, respectively.

Conclusions:
Overall, the results of the O-CMC-PNPs highlight that the prepared nanoparticles with
O-CMC would be effective for pulmonary delivery instead of chitosan and HPMC K4M.
Rebaudioside B Attenuates Lung Ischemia-reperfusion Injury Associated Apoptosis and Inflammation
Authors: Wu Xiangyang , Qiao Tao , Huang Jian , Li Jian , Wei Shilin , Yang Jianbao , Zhang Yanchun , Li Yongnan 
Published: April 2024

Objective:
At present, no proven effective treatment is available for Lung Ischemiareperfusion
Injury (LIRI). Natural compounds offer promising prospects for developing new
drugs to address various diseases. This study sought to explore the potential of Rebaudioside B
(Reb B) as a treatment compound for LIRI, both in vivo and in vitro.

Methods:
This study involved utilizing the human pulmonary alveolar cell line A549, consisting
of epithelial type II cells, subjected to Oxygen-glucose Deprivation/recovery (OGD/R) for highthroughput
in vitro cell viability screening. The aim was to identify the most promising candidate
compounds. Additionally, an in vivo rat model of lung ischemia-reperfusion was employed
to evaluate the potential protective effects of Reb B.

Results:
Through high-throughput screening, Reb B emerged as the most promising natural
compound among those tested. In the A549 OGD/R models, Reb B exhibited a capacity to enhance
cell viability by mitigating apoptosis. In the in vivo LIRI model, pre-treatment with Reb B
notably decreased apoptotic cells, perivascular edema, and neutrophil infiltration within lung
tissues. Furthermore, Reb B demonstrated its ability to attenuate lung inflammation associated
with LIRI primarily by elevating IL-10 levels while reducing levels of IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-α.

Conclusion:
The comprehensive outcomes strongly suggest Reb B's potential as a protective
agent against LIRI. This effect is attributed to its inhibition of the mitochondrial apoptotic
pathway and its ability to mitigate the inflammatory response.
Efficacy of COMPAs, an App Designed to Support Communication Between Persons Living With Dementia in Long-Term Care Settings and Their Caregivers: Mixed Methods Implementation Study
Authors: Ansaldo Ana Inés , Masson-Trottier Michèle , Delacourt Barbara , Dubuc Jade , Dubé Catherine 
Published: April 2024

Background
Persons living with dementia experience autonomy loss and require caregiver support on a daily basis. Dementia involves a gradual decline in communication skills, leading to fewer interactions and isolation for both people living with dementia and their caregivers, negatively impacting the quality of life for both members of the dyad. The resulting stress and burden on caregivers make them particularly susceptible to burnout.

Objective
This study aims to examine the efficacy of Communication Proches Aidants (COMPAs), an app designed following the principles of person-centered and emotional communication, which is intended to improve well-being in persons living with dementia and caregivers and reduce caregiver burden.

Methods
In this implementation study, volunteer caregivers in 2 long-term care facilities (n=17) were trained in using COMPAs and strategies to improve communication with persons living with dementia. Qualitative and quantitative analyses, semistructured interviews, and questionnaires were completed before and after 8 weeks of intervention with COMPAs.

Results
Semistructured interviews revealed that all caregivers perceived a positive impact following COMPAs interventions, namely, improved quality of communication and quality of life among persons living with dementia and caregivers. Improved quality of life was also supported by a statistically significant reduction in the General Health Questionnaire-12 scores (caregivers who improved: 9/17, 53%; z=2.537; P=.01). COMPAs interventions were also associated with a statistically significant increased feeling of personal accomplishment (caregivers improved: 11/17, 65%; t15=2.430; P=.03; d=0.61 [medium effect size]).

Conclusions
COMPAs intervention improved well-being in persons living with dementia and their caregivers by developing person-centered communication within the dyad, increasing empathy, and reducing burden in caregivers although most caregivers were unfamiliar with technology. The results hold promise for COMPAs interventions in long-term care settings. Larger group-controlled studies with different populations, in different contexts, and at different stages of dementia will provide a clearer picture of the benefits of COMPAs interventions.
Application of Sigma Metrics for Evaluating Analytical Performance of HbA1C Testing on D10- HbA1C Analyzer
Authors: Magar Bibek Pun , Thapa Amit , Acharya Shreeman , Ghimire Narayan , Pandey Sanjiv Kumar , Rokaya Rabindra Kumar , Lamichhane Suman 
Published: April 2024

In this study, analyzed HbA1C over a period of 6 months. Six Sigma improves the quality of process outputs by analyzing and eliminating the source of defects and reducing variability in manufacturing and business practices. In terms of clinical laboratory, the identification of test with low Sigma values (< 3σ) indicate that actions should be taken to improve analytic quality or the laboratory should use alternate methods and reagents. Our study showed methodologies for HbA1C is of world class performance achieving Sigma value ˃6, to maintain and improve this frequency of QC should be run as rule as per the westguard QC rule. Sigma metrics helps to assess analytical methodologies and augment laboratory performance. It acts as a guide for planning quality control strategy. It can be a self -assessment tool regarding the functioning of clinical laboratory. Using Six Sigma techniques, able to identify problem areas as well as recurring issues that affect the overall quality expectation of laboratory result.
Keywords: HbA1C, Six Sigma, Six Sigma values
Effects of Extraction Methods on the Physicochemical Properties and Biological Activities of heteroglycans from Hibiscus sabdariffa calyx
Authors: Kanemoto Ngomoyogoli Judith Emery , Ella Fils Armand , Kanemoto Stanley Olivier , Boudjeko Thaddée , Ngondi Judith Laure , Njintang Yanou Nicolas 
Published: April 2024

The hot-water extraction method has been employed to enhance the diffusion rate of heteroglycans, thereby augmenting the extraction efficiency. This study investigates the antioxidant activities and immunological properties of water-soluble polysaccharides derived from the Hibiscus sabdariffa calyx (HWPF and LWPF). These polysaccharides were isolated through two distinct extraction methods involving hot water followed by ethanol precipitation. The physicochemical characterization was conducted through a series of experiments encompassing monosaccharide composition, ultraviolet-visible spectrum analysis, and Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy. The evaluation of antioxidative properties employed various techniques, including DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging activities, Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power, ferrous chelating power, total reducing power, and protection against DNA damage. The assessment of anti-inflammatory potential involved the inhibition of hemolytic activity induced by a hypotonic solution and heat. Furthermore, the impact of the polysaccharides on the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines was analyzed through Luminex assay and RTPCR assay in PBMCs and LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells, respectively. The findings revealed that heteroglycans (LWPF and HWPF) exhibit a content of Ara-Man-Rha-GluA-GalA (41.2:17.2:15.7:9.2:8.8) and Ara-Glu-Rha-Xyl-GluA-Man (31.5:23.8:12.16:10.4:7:6) with molecular weights of approximately 4.5 KDa and 41.3 KDa, respectively. HWPF demonstrated robust metal chelating and scavenging activities. Additionally, each fraction exhibited substantial protection of DNA against damage induced by H2O2. LWPF was observed to significantly down-regulate the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-6 and COX-2 at both transcriptional and translational levels, along with inhibiting NO production. In summary, these results indicate that the choice of extraction methods influences both the structure and biological activities of heteroglycans, providing valuable insights into the structure-activity relationship.
Keywords: Hibiscus sabdariffa, heteroglycans, hot water extraction, physicochemical properties, Antioxidant activity, Pro-inflammatory cytokines.
Bridging Tradition and Modern Pharmacology of Bergenia ciliata (Haw.) Sternb: A Review
Authors: Rai Upakar , Rai Barkha 
Published: April 2024

Bergenia ciliata, a perennial rhizomatous herb holds a special place in the traditional herbal healthcare system due to its diverse therapeutic uses and potentials. Validation of its efficacy with scientific investigation is a prerequisite of any prospective herbal resource. The plant is a rich source of various bioactive chemical compounds. The present review is an attempt to consolidates comprehensive information sourced from 100 different literatures, exploring the plant's distribution, phytochemistry, traditional medicinal uses, and pharmacological activities specially focusing on some prevalent diseases of present day. The herb’s antimicrobial, anticancer, antiulcer and antidiabetic properties signify its potential in modern pharmacology. The review underscores B. ciliata's relevance in drug development and nutraceutical formulations, bridging age-old wisdom with contemporary healthcare solutions. Further exploration into its bioactive compounds and clinical applications promises innovative avenues in therapeutic intervention.
Keywords: Bergenia ciliata, perennial rhizomatous herb, traditional herbal healthcare, age-old wisdom
Results of treatment of patients with post-burn strictures of the esophagus by the booging method
Authors: Sukovatkin S. I. , Sulimanov R. A. , Suzdaltsev S. E. , Korotkov I. V. , Kalyuzhnaya O. Yu. , Gasainiev T. M. 
Published: April 2024

To date, treatment of cicatricial post-burn strictures of the esophagus remains one of the main challenges of thoracic surgery. Despite the signifi cant number of diff erent treatment methods, the number of patients requiring it, does not decrease. Conservative methods are mostly ineff ective. Bougienage of the esophagus remains the main method of treating scar strictures after burns.
Study of the initial vasculotoxic risk in patients with lymphoproliferative diseases before the start of polychemotherapy
Authors: Karimov R. R. , Salakheeva E. Yu. , Budanova D.  A. , Antyufeeva O. N. , Bochkarnikova O. V. , Privalova E. V. , Belenkov Yu. N. , Ilgisonis I. S. 
Published: April 2024

Research objective. To evaluate the levels of CRP, cardio-specific markers, lipids, structural-functional (SF) state of vessels, and their interrelations in patients with lymphoproliterative diseases (LPD) before polychemotherapy (PCT).Materials and methods. The study included patients with newly diagnosed LPD (n = 30), including 16 men (53.3%) and 14 women (46.7%). All patients were divided into two groups: group 1 (n = 15) — patients with low/intermediate cardiovascular toxicity (CVT) risk; group 2 (n = 15) — patients with high/very high CVT risk. CVT risk stratification was performed with the use of specialized scales according to the current European clinical guidelines for cardio-oncology 2022. All patients included in the study underwent standard laboratory and instrumental examinations. Specific laboratory research involved assessing the levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), troponin I (TnI), N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), and lipid profile. The SF state of vessels was evaluated non-invasively using photoplethysmography (PPG) (Angioscan-01 device, Russia) and computerized videocapillaroscopy (CVC) of the periungual area (Capillaroscan-01 device, Russia).Results. According to the results of PPG and CVC, the occlusion index (OI) in group 2 was significantly lower and amounted to 1.2 [1; 1.3] compared to 1.7 [1.45; 2.1] in group 1 (p < 0.001); capillary density after reactive hyperemia (CDRH) was also significantly lower in group 2 compared to group 1 — 43 [35.5; 45] and 54 [43; 58] cap/mm², respectively (p = 0.033). According to the obtained results, there were no statistically significant diff erences in the levels of CRP, TnI, and NT-proBNP between patients in both groups; the indicators were within the reference values. A moderate inverse statistically signifi cant correlation was found between the level of CRP and the percentage of perfused capillaries (PPC) (rs = –0.545; p = 0.02) and the percentage of capillary recovery (PCR) (r = –0.446; p = 0.013).Conclusion. Patients with LPD have endothelial dysfunction before PCT, primarily due to the presence of cardiovascular risk factors (age, body mass index), and concomitant cardiovascular diseases. At the same time, the SF state of vessels initially does not depend on the stage and course of LPD, lipid levels, and TnI.
Epidural lipomatosis with foci of hemorrhage and acute compression of the spinal cord in a child with CLOVES syndrome: illustrative case
Authors: Ishchenko Dmytro , Benzar Iryna , Holoborodko Andrii 
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND
Congenital lipomatous overgrowth, vascular malformations, epidermal nevi, spinal/skeletal anomalies, and/or scoliosis (CLOVES) syndrome is the most recently described combined vascular anomaly characterized by congenital excessive growth of adipose tissue, vascular malformations, epidermal nevi, and skeletal deformities. This condition exhibits a significant variability in clinical manifestations and a tendency for rapid progression and affects extensive anatomical regions. Information regarding the association of epidural lipomatosis with low-flow venous lymphatic malformations is rare, with few reports in the literature.

OBSERVATIONS
The authors present a case of a 6-year-old girl who was admitted to the emergency department complaining of rapidly progressing weakness in her lower extremities and partial loss of sensation in the inguinal area. Radiologically, an extradural mass was identified at the T2–6 level, causing acute spinal cord compression. Urgent decompression and partial resection of the mass were performed. Despite satisfactory intraoperative hemo- and lymphostasis, postoperative lymphorrhea/seroma leakage was encountered as a delayed complication and was managed conservatively.

LESSONS
CLOVES syndrome is characterized by the combination of various clinical symptoms, not all of which are included in the abbreviation, as well as a progressively deteriorating course, the emergence of new symptoms, and complications throughout the patient’s life. This necessitates ongoing monitoring of such patients.
Novel use of a closed-tip stent retriever to prevent distal embolism in the posterior circulation: illustrative case
Authors: Nishii Rikuo , Goto Masanori , Takano Yuki , Nakajima Kota , Takamatsu Takateru , Tokuda Masanori , Tomita Hikari , Yoshimoto Mai , Kawade Satohiro , Yamamoto Yasuhiro , Naramoto Yuji , Teranishi Kunimasa , Fukui Nobuyuki , Sunohara Tadashi , Fukumitsu Ryu , Takeda Junichi , Koyanagi Masaomi , Sakai Chiaki , Sakai Nobuyuki , Ohta Tsuyoshi 
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND
In mechanical thrombectomy for tandem occlusions in vertebrobasilar stroke, distal emboli from the vertebral artery lesion should be prevented. However, no suitable embolic protection devices are currently available in the posterior circulation. Here, the authors describe the case of a vertebral artery lesion effectively treated with a closed-tip stent retriever as an embolic protection device in the posterior circulation.

OBSERVATIONS
A 65-year-old male underwent mechanical thrombectomy for basilar artery occlusion, with tandem occlusion of the proximal vertebral artery. After basilar artery recanalization via the nonoccluded vertebral artery, a subsequent mechanical thrombectomy was performed for the occluded proximal vertebral artery. To prevent distal embolization of the basilar artery, an EmboTrap III stent retriever was deployed as an embolic protection device within the basilar artery to successfully capture the thrombus.

LESSONS
A stent retriever with a closed-tip structure can effectively capture thrombi, making it a suitable distal embolic protection device in the posterior circulation.
Arachnoid bands in hemifacial spasm: an overlooked etiology? Illustrative case
Authors: Al-Mutawa Mariam , Schroeder Henry W. S 
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND
Primary hemifacial spasm (HFS) is usually caused by arterial compression of the facial nerve at the root exit zone at the brainstem. Rarely, a purely venous compression is seen. However, arachnoid bands strangulating the facial nerve have not been recognized as a cause of hemifacial spasm.

OBSERVATIONS
The authors present a case of a 24-year-old female who had experienced HFS for 9 years. Endoscopic inspection of the root exit zone revealed no vascular compression but an arachnoid band strangulating the facial nerve. After cutting the band, the lateral spread response disappeared, and the patient was immediately spasm free after the surgery. Two years later, she was still doing well without any spasms.

LESSONS
This is the third patient in the authors’ series of 535 patients who had no vascular conflict but rather a strangulation of the nerve by arachnoid bands. All patients have remained spasm free. To the authors’ knowledge, no other group has reported arachnoid bands as an etiological factor of HFS so far.
Phantom limb pain, traumatic neuroma, or nerve sheath tumor? Illustrative case
Authors: Halloran Patrick J , Chiocca E. Antonio , Santos Andres 
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND
Phantom limb pain and traumatic neuromas are not commonly seen in neurosurgical practice. These conditions can present with similar symptoms; however, management of traumatic neuroma is often surgical, whereas phantom limb pain is treated with conservative measures.

OBSERVATIONS
A 77-year-old female patient with a long-standing history of an above-the-knee amputation experienced severe pain in her right posterior buttocks area for several years’ duration, attributed to phantom limb pain, which radiated down the stump of her leg and was treated with a variety of conservative measures. A recent exacerbation of her pain led to a prolonged hospitalization with magnetic resonance imaging of her leg stump, revealing a mass in the sciatic notch, at a relative distance from the stump. The anatomical location of the mass on the sciatic nerve in the notch led to a presumed radiological diagnosis of nerve sheath tumor, for which she underwent excision. At surgery, a neuroma of the proximal portion of the transected sciatic nerve that had retracted from the amputated stump to the notch was diagnosed.

LESSONS
Traumatic neuromas of transected major nerves after limb amputation should be considered in the differential diagnosis of phantom limb pain.
THE EFFECTS OF VARIOUS MODES OF INTERVAL HYPOXIC TRAINING IN EXPERIMENTAL MODELS OF ANXIETY AND DEPRESSION IN RATS
Authors: Zenko M. Y. , Baranova K. A. , Kukina M. V. , Rybnikova E. A. 
Published: April 2024

The development of non-drug methods for correcting stress-induced disorders and improving adaptation to stressful factors remains an urgent task of physiology, which has a great translational potential. Previously, we proposed effective methods of hypoxic hypobaric preconditioning and distant ischemic conditioning in this regard. The purpose of this work was to transfer the principles of preconditioning to the approaches of normobaric intermittent hypoxic training (IHT). The effects of five new IHT regimens (3 five-minute sessions of hypoxia of 16% O2 per day, 3 sessions of 12% O2, 7 sessions of 12% O2, 15 sessions of 12% O2, 3 sessions of 9% O2) were studied in experimental models of depression and post-traumatic stress disorder in rats. The preconditioning regime of high intensity 3x9%O2 had the most pronounced antidepressant and anxiolytic effect in models of both pathologies. With a decrease in the level of hypoxia to 12% O2, IHT regimens partially retained their effectiveness with an increase in the number of sessions. The training regime of the longest duration – 15 × 12%O2, was effective in correcting the formation of experimental depression. The intermediate regime – 7 × 12%O2, had an anxiolytic effect, while the preconditioning regime of medium intensity – 3 × 12%O2, demonstrated both an antidepressant and anxiolytic effect. The results indicate that the intensity of hypoxic exposure had the greatest impact on the effectiveness. At the same time, a decrease in the intensity to 16% O2 led to a weakening or loss of stress-protective properties. With regard to the 3 × 9%O2 regime as the most promising, it is advisable to conduct further studies to identify the molecular mechanisms that implement its stress-protective and anxiolytic effects.
EARLY PLEISTOCENE SEROTINE BAT <i>EPTESICUS PRAEGLACIALIS</i> (VESPERTILIONIDAE, CHIROPTERA) FROM THE TAURIDA CAVE IN CRIMEA
Authors: Lopatin A. V. 
Published: April 2024

The cranial and mandibular remains of a large serotine bat Eptesicus praeglacialis Kormos, 1930 are described from the Lower Pleistocene deposits of the Taurida cave in the central Crimea. This is the first finding of the skull material of E. praeglacialis and the first record of the species in Crimea. Judging by the tooth wear stages, the remains of both young and adult specimens are present in the taphocenosis. The small mammal tooth marks on the bones (caused by eating the remnants of soft tissues) in the absence of signs of digestion, characterizing materials from the predatory bird pellets, indicate that the taphocenosis includes the remains of E. praeglacialis individuals that used the cave as a shelter and died there. This corresponds to the idea of appearance of hibernation in caves as a climatically determined ecological adaptation in some European forest-dwelling bats (including Eptesicus) at the Pliocene–Pleistocene transition.