bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sound Improves Neuronal Encoding of Visual Stimuli in Mouse Primary Visual Cortex
Authors: Williams Aaron M. , Angeloni Christopher F. , Geffen Maria N.
Published: March 2023

In everyday life, we integrate visual and auditory information in routine tasks such as navigation and communication. While concurrent sound can improve visual perception, the neuronal correlates of audiovisual integration are not fully understood. Specifically, it remains unclear whether neuronal firing patters in the primary visual cortex (V1) of awake animals demonstrate similar sound-induced improvement in visual discriminability. Furthermore, presentation of sound is associated with movement in the subjects, but little is understood about whether and how sound-associated movement affects audiovisual integration in V1. Here, we investigated how sound and movement interact to modulate V1 visual responses in awake, head-fixed mice and whether this interaction improves neuronal encoding of the visual stimulus. We presented visual drifting gratings with and without simultaneous auditory white noise to awake mice while recording mouse movement and V1 neuronal activity. Sound modulated activity of 80% of light-responsive neurons, with 95% of neurons increasing activity when the auditory stimulus was present. A generalized linear model (GLM) revealed that sound and movement had distinct and complementary effects of the neuronal visual responses. Furthermore, decoding of the visual stimulus from the neuronal activity was improved with sound, an effect that persisted even when controlling for movement. These results demonstrate that sound and movement modulate visual responses in complementary ways, improving neuronal representation of the visual stimulus. This study clarifies the role of movement as a potential confound in neuronal audiovisual responses and expands our knowledge of how multimodal processing is mediated at a neuronal level in the awake brain.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTSound and movement are both known to modulate visual responses in the primary visual cortex; however, sound-induced movement has largely remained unaccounted for as a potential confound in audiovisual studies in awake animals. Here, authors found that sound and movement both modulate visual responses in an important visual brain area, the primary visual cortex, in distinct, yet complementary ways. Furthermore, sound improved encoding of the visual stimulus even when accounting for movement. This study reconciles contrasting theories on the mechanism underlying audiovisual integration and asserts the primary visual cortex as a key brain region participating in tripartite sensory interactions.
Splicing factor YBX1 regulates bone marrow stromal cell fate during aging
Authors: Xiao Ye , Cai Guang‐Ping , Feng Xu , Li Yu‐Jue , Guo Wan‐Hui , Guo Qi , Huang Yan , Su Tian , Li Chang‐Jun , Luo Xiang‐Hang , Zheng Yong‐Jun , Yang Mi
Published: March 2023

Senescence and altered differentiation potential of bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs) lead to age‐related bone loss. As an important posttranscriptional regulatory pathway, alternative splicing (AS) regulates the diversity of gene expression and has been linked to induction of cellular senescence. However, the role of splicing factors in BMSCs during aging remains poorly defined. Herein, we found that the expression of the splicing factor Y‐box binding protein 1 (YBX1) in BMSCs decreased with aging in mice and humans. YBX1 deficiency resulted in mis‐splicing in genes linked to BMSC osteogenic differentiation and senescence, such as Fn1, Nrp2, Sirt2, Sp7, and Spp1, thus contributing to BMSC senescence and differentiation shift during aging. Deletion of Ybx1 in BMSCs accelerated bone loss in mice, while its overexpression stimulated bone formation. Finally, we identified a small compound, sciadopitysin, which attenuated the degradation of YBX1 and bone loss in old mice. Our study demonstrated that YBX1 governs cell fate of BMSCs via fine control of RNA splicing and provides a potential therapeutic target for age‐related osteoporosis.
pH regulates hematopoietic stem cell potential via polyamines
Authors: Kumar Sachin , Vassallo Jeffrey D , Nattamai Kalpana J , Hassan Aishlin , Karns Rebekah , Vollmer Angelika , Soller Karin , Sakk Vadim , Sacma Mehmet , Nemkov Travis , D'Alessandro Angelo , Geiger Hartmut
Published: March 2023

Upon ex vivo culture, hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) quickly lose potential and differentiate into progenitors. The identification of culture conditions that maintain the potential of HSCs ex vivo is therefore of high clinical interest. Here, we demonstrate that the potential of murine and human HSCs is maintained when cultivated for 2 days ex vivo at a pH of 6.9, in contrast to cultivation at the commonly used pH of 7.4. When cultivated at a pH of 6.9, HSCs remain smaller, less metabolically active, less proliferative and show enhanced reconstitution ability upon transplantation compared to HSC cultivated at pH 7.4. HSCs kept at pH 6.9 show an attenuated polyamine pathway. Pharmacological inhibition of the polyamine pathway in HSCs cultivated at pH 7.4 with DFMO mimics phenotypes and potential of HSCs cultivated at pH 6.9. Ex vivo exposure to a pH of 6.9 is therefore a positive regulator of HSC function by reducing polyamines. These findings might improve HSC short‐term cultivation protocols for transplantation and gene therapy interventions.
Evaluate the developmental competence of human 8-cell embryos by single-cell RNA sequencing
Authors: Wang Weizhou , Zhao Mengmeng , Zuo Haiyang , Zhang Jingyao , Liu Bin , Chen Fu , Ji Pengyun , Liu Guoshi , Gao Shuai , Shang Wei , Zhang Lu
Published: March 2023

Graphical Abstract

The transition of maternal to zygotic gene expression regulation is critical for human preimplantation embryo development. In recent years, single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) had been applied to detect the factors that regulate human oocyte maturation and early embryo development. Here, the evaluation of transcriptomes in single blastomere from the embryo collected from patients by scRNA-seq was performed. There were 20 blastomeres biopsied from 8-cell embryos of seven patients who received more than two ART cycles due to low embryo competence. Meanwhile, ten cells were collected from 8-cell embryos of four patients who received ART treatment due to male or tubal factors. The blastomeres were then evaluated using the previously established scRNA-seq method to determine the associations between their gene expression and developmental competence. The total number of genes detected in 8-cell embryos that failed to form blastocyst including maternal and zygotic mRNAs was reduced. There were 324 differently expressed genes detected among the 8-cell embryos including 65 genes that were significantly suppressed in the 8-cell embryos that failed to form blastocyst. Further analysis found these 8-cell embryos arrested at the cleavage stage due to the dysfunction of the cell cycle, DNA transcription activity, histone methylation, and cell division-related genes such as SMCO-1, ZNF271P,ZNF679, ASF1b, BEX3, DPPA2, and ORC4. The alterations of gene expression detected in human 8-cell embryos are tightly associated with its developmental competence and could be used as targets to enhance embryo development or parameters to predict the embryo’s development outcomes.

Lay summary

Many females are suffering infertility due to the failure of embryonic development at early stages due to unknown causes. At the very beginning of human embryo development, the embryos start to express its own genes, which should be achieved at 8-cell stage. In current research, we isolated one cell from 8-cell embryos and detected the gene expression at single-cell level. Then the remaining cells of these embryos were cultured to form blastocyst. Meanwhile, the data was analyzed according to the outcomes of embryo development. We detected 324 differently expressed genes between the 8-cell embryos that succeeded and failed to form blastocyst. Our research showed the association between the gene expression and the developmental competence of 8-cell embryos. The findings could be used to predict the embryo quality and potential therapy target to improve the efficiency of assisted reproductive techniques.
Scutes for Sturgeon Size Reconstruction: Traditional and Geometric Morphometric Techniques Applied to Acipenser sturio and A. oxyrinchus
Authors: Thieren Els , Van Neer Wim
Published: March 2023

Se exploran alternativas tradicionales y de morfometría geométrica en la inferencia de la talla del esturión europeo (Acipenser sturio) y Atlántico (A. oxyrinchus) a partir de placas dérmicas. La correlación existente entre la longitud del pez y diferentes medidas de las placas dérmicas fue evaluada a través de regresiones lineales utilizando 58 esturiones en colecciones de museos. Dado que la precisión de tal técnica era limitada se exploró la posibilidad de determinar la posición de placas dérmicas aisladas dentro de la series corporales en función de su forma y dimensiones. Aunque en las filas laterales y dorsales la forma y tamaño de las placas cambia a lo largo del eje antero-posterior, las diferencias son demasiado graduales para poder establecer la posición original de una placa dentro de la serie. También se constataron las diferencias de talla y forma en placas procedentes de esturiones de distinto tamaño, pero estas tampoco eran suficientemente marcadas como para realizar una estimación precisa de la talla corporal. Se concluye por ello que las placas dérmicas aisladas no pueden proporcionar estimaciones precisas de la tallas corporal. No obstante, los modelos de regresión que presentamos permiten verificar si tanto las placas dérmicas laterales como las dorsales pertenecieron a esturiones de más de un metro de longitud. En caso afirmativo, las placas pueden ser identificadas a nivel de la especie a través de su ornamentación al tratarse ésta de un carácter dependiente de la talla.
Recycling immobilized laccase for lignin removal from prehydrolysis liquor of kraft-based dissolving pulp
Authors: Wang Qiang , Yuan Tianzhong , Liu Shanshan , Yang Guihua , Chen Jiachuan , Li Wenhai , Yang Rendang , Fatehi Pedram
Published: March 2023

Laccase treatment of prehydrolysis liquor (PHL) produced in a kraft-based dissolving pulp production may allow for purification of its hemicelluloses. In this work, a magnetic support of magnetic silica particle (Fe3O4/SiO2) was synthesized to immobilize laccase from Trametes versicolor. The laccase treatment led to increases in the molecular weight of lignin, which facilitated its removal from PHL. The results showed that laccase activity remained at 65% after seven successive recycle runs. The combination of 10 wt.% fresh immobilized laccase and 90 wt.% recycled immobilized laccase at the overall dosage of 1 U/mL led to 34% lignin removal, irrespective of the recycling runs. The laccase treatment caused 13 wt.% sugar losses from PHL. Based on the results, a process for removing lignin from PHL was proposed based on the application and recovery of an immobilized laccase system.
Optimization of oxidative degradation of HexA during chlorine dioxide delignification of bagasse pulp
Authors: Zhang Haichuan , Nie Shuangxi , Qin Chengrong , Bowers Ryan , Zhang Kun , Xia Nanfang , Zhang Qingtong , Yang Zhenzhen , Wang Shuangfei
Published: March 2023

Hexenuronic acid (HexA) not only influences delignification, but it is also one of the major factors producing absorbable organic halogens (AOX) during the chlorine dioxide bleaching of pulps. The efficient removal of the HexA from cooked pulp is important to minimize the need for bleaching and the pollution load from the mill effluent. Response surface analysis (RSA) was applied to determine the optimal oxidative degradation conditions for HexA in bagasse pulp. Based on the previous single-variable test results, reaction temperature, pH, and reaction time were chosen as the independent variables, with the amount of degradation of HexA being the response value in the RSA. According to the central composite experimental design principles, the type of response surface methodology with three factors and three levels was adopted and analyzed to determine the significant factors and the strength of interactions between factors. The optimal conditions determined were as follows: a reaction temperature of 94.7 °C, a pH of 3.7, and a reaction time of 124 min, which resulted in the amount of degradation of HexA at 10.5 µmol/g.
Efficient lignin degradation of corn stalk by Trametes with high laccase activity and enzymatic stability in salt and ionic liquid
Authors: Dong Shi-Jia , Zhang Bi-Xian , Wang Fu-Ling , Xin Liu , Gao Yun-Fei , Ding Wei , He Xin-Miao , Liu Di , Hu Xiao-Mei
Published: March 2023

The screening of new potential microbes for the selective degradation of lignin makes agricultural straws available to achieve the complete conversion to biofuel. Because of the capability of laccase to oxidize phenolic compounds and to reduce the molecular oxygen of water, laccase has attracted much interest in recent years for its industrial applications. In this study, a fungal strain with a relatively high laccase activity was isolated from corn farm residue and identified as Trametes KS-2. The maximum laccase activity was 631 U/L for Trametes KS-2 when glucose/corn stalk (1/1, w/w) and peptone were used as the carbon source and nitrogen source, with 0.09 mmol of Cu2+ at pH 5.5 and 28 °C for 10 days. Laccase activity of Trametes KS-2 was relatively stable in the presence of salt and an ionic liquid. Scanning electron microscopy analysis indicated the morphological alteration of lignocelluloses via Trametes KS-2 treatment. Remarkable degradation of lignin in corn stalk was achieved with Trametes KS-2. After 15 days, the lignin was noticeably reduced to 76 mg, and the degradation rate was increased to 65.4%. Trametes KS-2 could be potentially utilized in the microbial degradation of lignin for lignocellulosic biomass and the industrial production of laccase.
Empty fruit bunch-seaweed biocomposite as potential soil erosion mitigation material for oil palm plantation
Authors: Ashikin Nurin Syahindah Syasya Nor , Djalaluddin Akhsan , Yusuff Shaiful , Khalil H. P. S. Abdul , Syakir M. I.
Published: March 2023

A composite prepared from oil palm empty fruit bunch (OPEFB) and abundantly available wild seaweed showed great potential as a soil stabilizer, which is attributed to its natural hydrophilic nature. The water absorption and thickness swelling percentages of the oil palm empty fruit bunch-seaweed composite (OPEFB-SW) were recorded at 117.2% (± 7.1) and 10.5% (± 1.7), respectively. The main objective of this study was to determine the effectiveness of the biocomposite in regulating runoff volume and water quality due to soil erosion from the experimental plots. Hence, the volume, turbidity, and total suspended solids (TSS) of the water runoff were investigated. A rainfall simulation test was conducted to test the effectiveness of the cover material (biocomposite) at different application levels (0 kg/m2 (T1), 3.0 kg/m2 (T2), 4.0 kg/m2 (T3), and 5.0 kg/m2 (T4)) of the composite in reducing soil erosion. Overall, the OPEFB-SW composite demonstrated its capability to absorb rainfall impact and therefore stabilize the soil structure. The runoff volume, turbidity, and TSS were reduced significantly to 49.1%, 94.6%, and 99.2%, respectively. In addition, the plot with 4.0 kg/m2 indicates the best treatment in regulating runoff volume, turbidity, and TSS.
A pH-sensitive xylan-based superabsorbent hydrogel for the removal of methylene blue from water
Authors: Lin Yan , Fang Guigan , Deng Yongjun , Shen Kuizhong , Huang Chen , Wu Ting
Published: March 2023

A novel porous xylan-based hydrogel was prepared using methacrylated xylan and acrylic acid via free radical polymerization. The structure, morphology, and thermal stability of the hydrogel were characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The pH value had an important effect on the swelling and dye-adsorption properties of the hydrogel. When methylene blue was used as a dye model, the dye adsorption of the hydrogel followed the Langmuir isotherm model and pseudo-second order kinetic model. The calculated maximum adsorption capacity reached 4720 mg/g. Besides, the hydrogel retained about 90% of its adsorptive capacity even after 4 cycles of usage. Therefore, the xylan-based hydrogel presented excellent dye adsorption performance and could be a promising superabsorbent for wastewater treatment.
II kasmetinė nacionalinė socialinės politikos konferencija „Gyvenimo kelias ir jo krizės: kaip (ar) veikia Lietuvos socialinė politika?“
Authors: Adomavičienė Aistė , Ambrazevičiūtė Kristina , Ankėnaitė-Balčiūnienė Kristina , Charenkova Jūratė , Dilytė-Kotenko Asta , Dunajevas Eugenijus , Jurėnienė Virginija , Purvaneckienė Giedrė , Lazutka Romas , Juška Arūnas , Straševičiūtė Žeimantė , Mataitytė-Diržienė Jurga , Šumskienė Eglė , Gevorgianienė Violeta , Genienė Rasa , Pocius Arūnas , Rapolienė Gražina , Gedvilaitė-Kordušienė Margarita , Tretjakova Vaida , Tamutienė Ilona , Auglytė Vaida , Zamalijeva Olga , Kairys Antanas , Zitikytė Kristina
Published: March 2023

2022 m. spalio 14 d. Vilniaus universitete vyko II kasmetinė nacionalinė socialinės politikos konferencija „Gyvenimo kelias ir jo krizės: kaip (ar) veikia Lietuvos socialinė politika?“Universiteto g. 3, Vilniushttps://youtu.be/oBGfbjJijPY
Disparities in Vision Screening in Primary Care for Young Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Hoover Kimberly , Di Guglielmo Matthew D. , Perry Brittany
Published: March 2023

OBJECTIVES

To determine the rate of vision screening among children with and without autism spectrum disorder (ASD), the rate of photoscreening compared with visual acuity screening, and the effect of demographic factors on vision screening for children with ASD.

METHODS

Data from well visits for 3- to 5-year-olds between January 2016 and December 2019 were collected via PEDSnet. Billing codes for vision screening were a proxy for the completion of vision screening. χ2 analysis examined the relationship of age, sex, race, ethnicity, region, and socioeconomic status to vision screening rate and rate of photoscreening versus visual acuity screening. Multivariate logistic regression assessed factors that impacted the odds of vision screening.

RESULTS

We analyzed 63 829 well-child visits. Children with ASD were less likely to have a vision screening (36.5%) compared with children without ASD (59.9%). The lowest rates of screening occurred during the 3-year visit. Of those with ASD, Black children had a lower screening rate (27.6%) than white (39.7%) and other/multiracial children (39.8%). The use of photoscreening was higher in Hispanic children, increasing the overall rate of vision screening greater than non-Hispanic children. Practice region influenced the rates of vision screening for children with ASD because of more photoscreening.

CONCLUSIONS

Children with ASD are less likely to receive vision screening at well visits compared with typically developing children. This disparity was greatest among younger children and Black children. One practice region used more photoscreening and had higher rates of screening. Photoscreening is a useful tool to decrease disparity, especially among high-risk patient groups.
Unilateral transtibial amputelerde farklı yürüyüş hızlarında kalça eklem kinematiğinin incelenmesi
Authors: YALÇIN Ali İmran , YAZICIOĞLU Fatma Gül
Published: March 2023

Amaç: Çalışma unilateral transtibial amputasyonu olan bireylerin farklı yürüyüş hızlarında kalça eklem kinematiklerinin 3 boyutlu olarak incelenmesi amacıyla planlandı.
Yöntem: Çalışmaya unilateral transtibial amputasyonu olan (n=10) ve sağlıklı bireyler(n=10) olmak üzere 20 birey dahil edildi. Bireylerin kalça eklem kinematikleri yürüme bandı üzerinde normal hızda, bu hızın %80’inde ve %120’sinde yapılan yürüyüşlerde 3 boyutlu hareket analiz sistemi ile değerlendirildi.
Bulgular: Çalışma sonucunda bireylerin farklı yürüyüş hızlarında ve bu hızlarda gruplar arasında sagittal düzlemde yapılan ölçümlerde fark bulundu (p<0,05). Ampute bireylerde protezli ekstremitede kalça hareketlerinin sagittal düzlemde etkilenmemiş ekstremiteden fazla olduğu görüldü (p<0,05).
Sonuç: Sagittal düzlemdeki kalça hareketleri yürüyüş hızı ile doğru orantılı olarak değişkenlik göstermektedir. Ekstremiteler arasındaki asimetri farklı hızlarda da devam etmektedir. Bu nedenle ampute rehabilitasyonunda farklı hızlarda da simetrik yürüyüşe yönelik uygulamaların rehabilitasyon programlarına dahil edilmesi gerektiği görüşüne varıldı.
Strategien biotechnischer Innovation
Authors: Dolata Ulrich , Barben Daniel , Pfirrmann Oliver , Kulicke Marianne
Published: March 2023

Im letzten Jahrzehnt haben sich die Anstrengungen verstärkt, in der Region Hamburg einen tragfähigen Standort für moderne Biotechnologien zu etablieren. Die wachsende Intensität der Hamburger Biotechnologieförderung kann als Reflex auf den drastischen Einbruch neu gegründeter Biotechnologiefirmen gesehen werden, der sich in den Jahren zuvor vollzog. Zahlreiche Unternehmen verschwanden ungeachtet guter Konzepte und guter Technologien nach kurzer Zeit wieder von der Bildfläche. Vor diesem Hintergrund wurde am Forschungsschwerpunkt Biotechnologie, Gesellschaft und Umwelt (BIOGUM) der Universität Hamburg im Wintersemester 2004/2005 die Vortragsreihe "Strategien biotechnischer Innovation" veranstaltet, deren Ziel es sein sollte, aus unterschiedlichen Perspektiven die Möglichkeiten, Probleme und Grenzen der Innovationssteuerung zu untersuchen. Die Texte des vorliegenden Bandes gehen auf Vorträge zurück, die von den Beitragenden im Rahmen dieser Vortragsreihe gehalten wurden.
Ultrahigh-Frequency Hop Dryer with Tiered Resonators
Authors: Prosviryakova Maryana V. , Storchevoy Vladimir F. , Goryacheva Natalya G. , Mikhaylova Olga V. , Novikova Galina V. , Stotrchevoy Alecksandr V.
Published: March 2023

Introduction. From the analysis of hop dryers of different systems and designs follows the prospect of hop drying by complex influence of the energy of the electromagnetic field of ultrahigh frequency and convective heat.
Aim of the Article. The article aims at developing a small-sized microwave convective hop dryer with justified parameters for intensive drying technology of freshly harvested hops.
Materials and Methods. Taking into account the justified criteria for the design of a hop dryer and the analysis of existing resonators, there was proposed a methodology for the development of a hop dryer with an energy supply in an electromagnetic field, including requirements for structural design, operational and economic indicators, and technology. The electrodynamic parameters of the resonator were investigated according to the CST Studio 2017 program.
Results. The dielectric parameters of hops are theoretically investigated and functional dependences on humidity at a frequency of 2,450 MHz are obtained. The dynamics of hop heating is investigated when its dielectric loss factor changes during the action of an ultrahigh frequency electromagnetic field. There has been developed a design and technological scheme of a radio-hermetic microwave convective hop dryer of continuous flow action with tiered resonators for low-power agricultural enterprises. Resonators are arranged in tiers in the screening cylindrical housing: the first and third resonators are hemispherical, and the middle one is made in the form of an ellipsoid to ensure a high electric field strength. The transportation of raw materials takes place by rotating the discs in a gentle mode.
Discussion and Conclusion. The expected specific energy costs of a hop dryer with a capacity of 12–13 kg/h at the microwave generator power of 4.0 kW for drying freshly harvested hops with a humidity of 76–82% to a humidity of 11–14% are 0.30–0.33 kWh/kg. The required electric field voltage of 2 kV/cm in all three resonators is provided, therefore, disinfection of raw materials occurs at a temperature of 65–70°C for 5–6 minutes of stay in three resonators. The intensity of moisture release from hop cones during endogenous convective heating increases 5–6 times compared to the convective drying method. The introduction of microwave drying technology using a convective method of evaporation and removal of moisture from the drying chamber reduces the duration of the process, saves valuable components of cones for brewing.
An unexpected record of the endemic species Polylepis albicans Pilger (Rosaceae) in Huancavelica, Peru, with notes on its conservation and complex geographic distribution pattern
Authors: Quispe-Melgar Harold Rusbelth , Llacua-Tineo Yashira Stefani , Cuadros-Rojas Robinson Daniel , Huayta-Hinojosa L. David , Lagones Poma Katherine Lucero , Ames-Martínez Fressia Nathalie , Boza Espinoza Tatiana Erika
Published: March 2023

Polylepis albicans Pilger (Rosaceae) is restricted to the Cordillera Blanca in Ancash and La Libertad, northwestern Peru. Here, we report the occurrence of a new population of the species in Huancavelica, central Peru. We analyzed its morphology and compared samples of the new record with samples collected from the Cordillera Blanca, where the main populations of the species are concentrated. We discuss the complex patterns of the geographic distribution P. albicans and the implications for its conservation.
Do Students have Agency?
Authors: Huang Ting , Lammers Jayne C
Published: March 2023

Much research exploring the use of videos to support language learning positions videos as tools and learners as passively engaged viewers. This study reveals that when encouraged to explore authentic Chinese videos, L2 learners actively took control of their language learning based on their personal interests. The complexity of video learning calls for deeper exploration into learners’ experiences. Using socio-cultural theory perspectives of self-, other-, and social-mediation and internalization, this article depicts heritage and non-heritage university-level Chinese language learners’ agency during informal video learning. This two-year qualitative study used semi-structured interviews, stimulus recall, participant observation, and document collection. Analysis revealed these lived experiences of participants’ agentic video learning; Learners in our study demonstrated variety in terms of social support and cultural understanding helping or hindering how videos mediated their L2 learning. Teachers should therefore design video pedagogy that considers individual students’ social worlds and purposes for L2 learning.
Potential of machine learning methods in operational risk stratification in patients with coronary artery disease scheduled for coronary bypass surgery
Authors: Golukhova E. Z. , Keren M. A. , Zavalikhina T. V. , Bulaeva N. I. , Akatov D. S. , Sigaev I. Yu. , Yakhyaeva K. B. , Kolesnikov D. A.
Published: March 2023

Aim. To develop and evaluate the effectiveness of models for predicting mortality after coronary bypass surgery, obtained using machine learning analysis of preoperative data.

Material and methods. As part of a cohort study, a retrospective prediction of in-hospital mortality after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) was performed in 2182 patients with stable coronary artery disease. Patients were divided into 2 following samples: learning (80%, n=1745) and training (20%, n=437). The initial ratio of surviving (n=2153) and deceased (n=29) patients in the total sample indicated a pronounced class imbalance, and therefore the resampling method was used in the training sample. Five machine learning (ML) algorithms were used to build predictive risk models: Logistic regression, Random Forrest, CatBoost, LightGBM, XGBoost. For each of these algorithms, cross-validation and hyperparameter search were performed on the training sample. As a result, five predictive models with the best parameters were obtained. The resulting predictive models were applied to the learning sample, after which their performance was compared in order to determine the most effective model.

Results. Predictive models implemented on ensemble classifiers (CatBoost, LightGBM, XGBoost) showed better results compared to models based on logistic regression and random forest. The best quality metrics were obtained for CatBoost and LightGBM based models (Precision — 0,667, Recall — 0,333, F1-score — 0,444, ROC AUC — 0,666 for both models). There were following common high-ranking parameters for deciding on the outcome for both models: creatinine and blood glucose levels, left ventricular ejection fraction, age, critical stenosis (>70%) of carotid arteries and main lower limb arteries.

Conclusion. Ensemble machine learning methods demonstrate higher predictive power compared to traditional methods such as logistic regression. The prognostic models obtained in the study for preoperative prediction of in-hospital mortality in patients referred for CABG can serve as a basis for developing systems to support medical decision-making in patients with coronary artery disease.
Association of hypertriglyceridemia with risk factors for cardiovascular and renal complications in individuals with high cardiovascular risk
Authors: Murkamilov I. T. , Fomin V. V. , Murkamilova Zh. A. , Sabirov I. S. , Sabirova A. I. , Umurzakov Sh. E. , Yusupov F. A. , Maanaev T. I. , Gasanov K. A.
Published: March 2023

Aim.To study clinical and functional manifestations of hypertriglyceridemia and its association with risk factors for cardiovascular and renal complications in individuals with high cardiovascular risk.

Material and methods. The study included 272 patients (129 men and 143 women; mean age, 53,9±13,7 years) with a high cardiovascular risk, which was stratified using Systematic Coronary Risk Evaluation (SCORE) model by the presence of cardiovascular disease, and/or diabetes, and/or age ≥65 years, and/or blood pressure (BP) >180/110 mm Hg, and/or total cholesterol (TC) level >8,0 mmol/l. All study participants underwent clinical and paraclinical examination. Serum content of triglycerides (TGs) ≥1,7 mmol/L was considered hypertriglyceridemia (HTG). Depending on TG level, the entire sample was divided into 2 following subgroups: subgroup 1 (n=178) — serum triglycerides ≤1,6 mmol/l; subgroup 2 (n=94) — serum triglycerides ≥1,7 mmol/l, i.e. HTG.

Results. We revealed significantly more persons with obesity (46,8%) and type 2 diabetes (28,7%) in HTG subgroup. There were 56,3% and 36,1% patients of HTG subgroup with hypertension (HTN) and coronary artery disease (CAD), respectively. A mid-high TG level (from 1,7 to 2,3 mmol/l) in the subgroup of patients with HTG was detected in 38,3% of cases. The serum content of TG from 2,3 to 5,6 mmol/l was detected in 54,2% of patients. TG level ≥5,6 mmol/l was detected in 7,5% of cases. In the subgroup of patients with HTG, high levels of systolic, diastolic and central (aortic) BP, body mass index, phosphorus, creatinine, cystatin C, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), and carotid intima-media thickness (IMT) were detected significantly more common. In the general sample, a significant direct relationship between TG concentration and cystatin C (r=0,168) and an inverse (negative) relationship with eGFR (r=-0,220) was obtained.

Conclusion. Elevated serum TG levels are often observed in individuals with obesity, type 2 diabetes, hypertension and CAD. Patients with HTG had a pronounced cardiovascular and renal risk, including a significant increase in BP and carotid IMT, high levels of total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, phosphorus, creatinine, cystatin C, and a decrease in eGFR. HTG was associated with an increase in serum cystatin C and a deterioration in renal nitrogen excretion.
Long-term survival of patients with cerebrovascular accident in different age groups in the REGION-M registry
Authors: Tolpygina S. N. , Zagrebelny A. V. , Chernysheva M. I. , Voronina V. P. , Kutishenko N. P. , Dmitrieva N. A. , Lerman O. V. , Lukina Yu. V. , Blagodatskikh S. V. , Lukyanov M. M. , Okshina E. Yu. , Parsadanyan N. E. , Martsevich S. Yu. , Drapkina O. M.
Published: March 2023

Aim. To study the two-year survival rate of patients with cerebrovascular accident (CVA) in different age groups.

Material and methods. The outpatient part of the REGION-M registry included 684 patients assigned to the City Polyclinic № 64 in Moscow, discharged from the F. I. Inozemtsev City Clinical Hospital (Moscow) in the period from January 1, 2012 to April 30, 2017 with a confirmed diagnosis of stroke or transient ischemic attack. All patients were divided into 5 age groups: group 1 — from 18 to 50 years old (n=72 (10,5%)), group 2 — from 51 to 60 years old (n=122 (17,8%)), group 3 — from 61 to 70 years old (n=156 (22,8%)), group 4 — from 71 to 80 years old (n=185 (27,0%)) and group 5 — 81 years and above (n=149 (21,8%)). Patient survival was assessed after 2 years of follow-up.

Results. The mortality rate of patients during the follow-up period significantly increased with age as follows: in patients of 18-50 years old — 4%, 51-60 years old — 9,8%, 61-70 years old — 23,7%, 71-80 years old — 34%, 81-100 years old — 55% (p<0,0001). The relative death risk was 2,3 in group 2 (NA), 6,8 in group 3 (p<0,001), 9,8 in group 4 (p<0,0001) and 18,5 in group 5 (p<0,0001) compared with group 1. With increasing age in the study cohort, the proportion of women increased as follows: from 47,2% in group 1 to 77,9% in group 5 (p<0,0001). However, mortality among men and women in the groups did not differ. Patients in older age groups were more likely to have comorbidities and disability before the CVA. With increasing age, ischemic stroke was significantly more common and transient ischemic attack was less common (p<0,001).

Conclusion. Mortality of patients who underwent stroke was significantly higher in older age groups and did not differ among men and women.
Possibilities of lipid clinics in identifying patients with familial hypercholesterolemia
Authors: Kim Z. F. , Galyavich A. S. , Sadykova D. I. , Nurieva L. M.
Published: March 2023

Aim.To assess the detection rate of familial hypercholesterolemia among outpa­tients visiting a lipidologist.

Material and methods.We analyzed the causes and nature of lipid metabolism disorders in patients of the Adult Lipidology Center as follows: 1233 people aged 18-84, including 777 women (63,02%) and 456 men (36,98%). Biomaterial samples from 421 patients with the phenotype of definite, possible or probable familial hypercholesterolemia were studied by massive parallel sequencing using a panel of 5 genes associated with familial hypercholesterolemia (LDLR, LDLRAP1, APOB, APOE, PCSK9). For statistical processing, descriptive statistics methods were used.

Results.Working-age patients apply 1,56 times more often than patients of the older age group (60,91% vs 39,09%), and the vast majority of them were referred by a primary care physician based on data from periodic health examinations. The mean level of total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol in the lipidology center was 7,58 and 4,8, respectively. Out of 421 samples, 127 patients (10,3% of the total number of patients and 30,16% of the number of biosamples) had previously described variants of the LDLR, APOB and/or PCSK9 genes associated with familial hypercholesterolemia.

Conclusion.The detection rate of definite familial hypercholesterolemia ranges from 5,51 to 8,43% of outpatients visiting a lipidologist, while the proportion of verified carriers of gene mutations related to familial hypercholesterolemia is 10,3%. The diagnosis should not be rejected with a formally low probability according to the S. Broom and DLCN criteria, as well as when identifying data suggestive of secondary lipid metabolism disorders.
Principles of healthcare management for patients with pulmonary hypertension: focus on continuity
Authors: Ryabkov V. A. , Vezikova N. N. , Goncharova N. S. , Simakova M. A. , Moiseeva O. M.
Published: March 2023

In managing care for patients with rare, rapidly progressive pathologies such as pulmonary hypertension (PH) and chronic thromboembolic hypertension (CTEPH), early diagnosis and speed of routing are of particular importance. Reducing the time spent on patient routing reduces the risk of disease progression, the rate of hospitalizations, and thereby the socioeconomic burden of the disease.

In the Republic of Karelia, an algorithm for routing patients with PH and CTEPH has been created, which is an example of a successful healthcare management.
Integrated solution for patients of a very high cardiovascular risk. Final results
Authors: Usova E. I. , Ionov M. V. , Alieva A. S. , Avdonina N. G. , Yakovlev A. N. , Zvartau N. E.
Published: March 2023

Secondary prevention should be actively implemented at all stages of treatment and rehabilitation of patients after acute coronary syndrome (ACS). The integration of remote monitoring of patients with the transfer of vital and laboratory data into clinical practice seems promising.

Aim.To evaluate the clinical and patient-centered effectiveness of the original 12-month combined face-to-face and telecare program in patients with recent ACS.

Material and methods. For the present analysis the data from 84 (out of 100) patients (median age, 56 (50;61) years, 70 males) was used. These patients had to have hypertension and/or type 2 diabetes and an ACS with percutaneous revascularization within 12 months. Their low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) had to be above 2,4 mmol/L. Telehealth program supplemented routine care. A program contained electronic self-control diaries for blood pressure (BP) and lipid profile, and teleconsulting service (text chat). Mandatory face-to-face visits were carried out at 3 and 12 months after the enrollment. The primary end point was ∆LDL-C. Additional clinical and patient-specific endpoints were evaluated.

Results.At the 12-month visit, there was a significant decrease in LDL-C by 1,6 (-2,3;-0,9) mmol/L. Besides the initial LDL-C value, the decrease in LDL-C was associated with the proper adherence to keeping diaries of BP and lipid profile (β=0,7), and the number of text messages sent by the doctor in the 1st month after the enrollment (β=0,04). In more adherent patients, the ∆LDL-C was greater by 0,49 mmol/L (95% CI (-1,2; -0,1)) after adjustment for abovementioned covariates. In 35 patients (42%), target LDL-C was achieved, in 60 patients (71%) — a decrease ≥1 mmol/l. Other lipids also have changed for the better. Moreover, adherent patients were twice as likely to achieve the target LDL-C (OR 2,2; 95% CI (0,6; 3,8)) than non-adherent ones. A decrease in office systolic BP by 5,8 mm Hg was shown (p=0,03). The number of physician-to-patient messages exceeded those from patients to physician (median 143 and 111 per patient for 12 months, respectively). The quality of life has improved, but only in terms of emotions. Satisfaction with the program remained high at all timepoints of the study.

Conclusion.Our study showed the effectiveness of the integrated care in ACS patients with the telehealth tool included. Commitment to BP self-monitoring, as well as active consultative support at the first stages of rehabilitation, contributes to additional dynamic control of lipid profile, timely correction of lipid-lowering therapy with the achievement of the target LDL-C level. Most of the patients did not experience any difficulties in using the program and are ready to recommend integrated approach to other peers.
The cost effectiveness of the respiratory virus panel in childhood febrile neutropenia
Authors: KARA Buket , ALKAN Gülsüm , ERTAN Kübra , EMİROĞLU Melike , ARSLAN Prof. Dr. Uğur , VATANSEV Hüsamettin , KÖKSAL Yavuz
Published: March 2023

ABSTRACT

Objective: The aim of this study is to analyze the clinical utility and cost of the respiratory virus panel test in the febrile neutropenia (FN) episode in children undergoing chemotherapy.

Material and Method: From 2014 to 2018, 180 episodes of FN in 93 children with cancer were retrospectively analyzed. The patients were divided into those with (Group A) and without respiratory virus panel (Group B). The demographic and clinical features and cost analysis of the groups A and B were noted.

Results: Of these FN episodes, 46 were in Group A (25.5%) and 134 were in Group B (74.5%). We found positivity in 45 (97.8%) of 46 episodes in Group A. While modification was required in 14 FN episodes (30.4%) in Group A, modification was required in 35 FN episodes (26.1%) in group B. The difference was not statistically significant (p=0.570). In Group A, only 5 (10.8%) were modified according to the respiratory virus panel. The respiratory virus panel prices were $72.43 (interquartile range, $38.8). The ratio of respiratory virus panel cost to the total cost was 9.67% (interquartile range 11.6). The median total cost of group A was $663.18 (interquartile range, 850.1), while that of group B was $596.24 (interquartile range, 723.81). The difference was not statistically significant (p=0.141).

Conclusion: The respiratory virus panel may contribute to the preference of antibiotics by giving rapid results in FN attacks. However, no effect on modification rates was observed, and only a small percentage of patients underwent antibiotic modification according to respiratory virus panel.
Gastrointestinal System Involvement of Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C): A Single Center Experience of 47 cases
Authors: YÜCEL Aylin , METİN Ozge
Published: March 2023

Abstract

Backgraound/Aims: Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) is a hyperinflammatory syndrome which was newly described during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic in children and characterized by fever, inflammation, multiorgan dysfunction. One of the major clinical presentation is gastrointestinal system involvement. The aim of the study is to evaluate the clinical course and outcome according to the severity of gastrointestinal presentation, focusing on MIS-C cases with gastrointestinal system involvement.

Methods: We performed a retrospective study of 47 MIS-C patients with gastrointestinal involvement in our clinic between October 2020 and March 2022. The patients were divided into two groups according to the severity of gastrointestinal involvement. The groups were compared in terms of demographic characteristics, gastrointestinal symptoms, laboratory parameters, other system involvement, length of hospital stay, treatment modalities, and clinical outcomes.

Results: According to the severity of gastrointestinal system involvement, 44.7% (n=21) of the cases were mild to moderate, 55.3% (n=26) were severe. The most common gastrointestinal symptoms at presentation were abdominal pain (78.7%), vomiting (59.6%), and nausea (55.3%). Transaminase elevation was present in 29.8% of the cases. The most common radiological findings were ascites (36.2%) and pancreatic edema (27.7%). In cases presenting with acute pancreatitis (n=9), intensive care unit admission rates (n=6) were statistically significantly higher. Brain natriuretic peptide (p=0.020) and d-dimer (p=0.032) were statistically significantly higher in the severe group than in the mild to moderate group.

Conclusions: In a significant part of the MIS-C cases with gastrointestinal involvement, severe findings is observed. Especially in cases presenting with pancreatitis, a more severe clinical course may be observed. Therefore, when managing patients presenting with gastrointestinal symptoms, the evaluation for pancreatitis is essential.
The change in disease severity and medication adherence of patients registered in community mental health center in the Covid-19 pandemic
Authors: YILMAZ Seda , KILIÇ Nülüfer
Published: March 2023

Aim:

In this study, we aimed to investigate the changes in disease severity and medication adherence of patients who stayed away from Community Mental Health Center (CMHC) activities during the Covid-19 pandemic period although they participated more regularly in CMHC activities before the Covid-19 pandemic.

Materials and Methods:

54 patients who regularly attended CMHC were included in the study retrospectively. The first interview in this study was held in January 2020, and the second interview was held in June 2021.

Results:

The increase in the PANSS total 2 score compared to the PANSS total 1 score, the increase in the PANSS positive 2 score compared to the PANSS positive 1 score, the increase in the YMRS 2 score compared to the YMRS 1 score, and the decrease in the MMAS 2 score compared to the MMAS 1 score were found to be significant (p
Prognostic value of systemic immune-inflammation index in head and neck carcinoma patients undergoing definitive radio(chemo)therapy
Authors: GÜRDAL Necla , CERAN Yaren , KOTEK SEDEF Ayse
Published: March 2023

ABSTRACT

Background:

The aim of this study is to investigate the prognostic effect of the systemic immune-inflammation index (SII) in non-surgically managed head and neck carcinoma patients who underwent definitive radio(chemo)therapy.

Methods:

Twenty four patients who were all treated with radio(chemo)terapy with curative intent for head and neck cancer (HNC) were included in the study. All patients were analyzed in terms of age at diagnosis, gender, body mass index, stage, radiotherapy dose/ fraction, chemotherapy (CT), pre-treatment complete blood count parameters, the pre-treatment systemic immune-inflammation index, local relapse, distant failure, overall survival (OS), and disease-free survival (DFS).

Results:

SII index was observed to be higher in locally advanced patients than in stage I/II patients (p=0.004). In addition, as a result of the evaluation made with ROC (receiver operating characteristic) analysis, it was observed that the SII index had a diagnostic value in predicting locally advanced disease (AUC:0.867, 95% CI :0.721-1.00, p=0.002). DFS and OS rates were 79% and 90% at a median follow-up of 9 months.

Conclusions:

The systemic immune-inflammation index predicts more advanced disease in non-surgically managed head and neck cancer patients. It can be considered as a biomarker that can contribute to the management of definitive radio(chemo)therapy.
New proteins in the differentiation of papillary renal cell carcinoma from clear cell renal cell carcinomas; Importance of DARS2, Reelin and Enkurin
Authors: BALTA Hilal , KOCAMAN Nevin , ÜÇER Özlem
Published: March 2023

Purpose: The purpose of the present study was to examine the roles of new proteins DARS2, Reelin, and Encurin in the differentiation of Clear-Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma (RCC) and Papillary Renal Cell Carcinoma (RCC). Clear-cell RCC is the most common malignancy of the kidney, and papillary RCC is the second most common malignant malignancy in this respect. They are neoplasms and show similarity to each other, both histologically and morphologically, in some cases. Differential diagnosis is important because treatment approaches and prognoses are different. Although careful histopathological examination and specific immunohistochemical markers are important for diagnosis, there are no specific antibodies that can be used reliably and the search for biomarkers continues in this regard.

Materials and Methods: A total of 30 Clear-Cell RCC and 30 Papillary RCC cases were included in the present study. Patients were identified retrospectively by reviewing the hospital database and pathological reports. Pathological data were obtained from hospital medical archives and pathology reports.

Results: It was found that DARS2, Reelin, and Encurin proteins were significantly higher in papillary RCC when compared to clear-cell RCC.

Conclusion: It was concluded that DARS2, Reelin, and Encurin proteins may be potential biomarkers for the differentiation of Papillary RCC and Clear-Cell RCC.