bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Monitoring Bottlenose Dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) Welfare During a Functional Neuroimaging Study
Authors: Ames Audra E. , Agustí Clara , Dick Frederic , Talló-Parra Oriol , Price Anthony , Álvaro Álvarez Teresa , García Párraga Daniel , Arenarez Lozano Julieta , González Quintero Adrian , Rincon Monne Alba , Ten-Esteve Amadeo , Almendros-Riaza Africa , Uus Alena , Gomez Maëlina , Marti-Bonmati Luis , Shinn-Cunningham Barbara , Tyack Peter L.
Published: November 2024

The development of non-invasive methods to study brain structure and function has enabled a flowering of cognitive neuroscience in humans and nonhuman species. Herein, we describe the development of protocols for functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) of a bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus), including protocols to monitor the health and welfare of the subject over the course of our five-year study. A Welfare Control Plan (WCP) was designed to monitor, enhance, and protect our subject’s welfare throughout the course of the study. The WCP was developed so our team of marine mammal veterinarians, trainers, and researchers could (1) identify study procedures that might negatively impact the individual’s welfare and propose measures to mitigate them, (2) define and implement protocols for monitoring the individual’s welfare throughout the study, and (3) determine the study’s temporary or final endpoints. Overall, behavioral, physiological, and health welfare indicators showed that the dolphin’s quality of life was not negatively impacted by participating in our functional neuroimaging study. Our study provides an example of how innovative, ambitious, and logistically complex animal studies can successfully be performed while protecting the welfare of participating animals through adequate planning, enough human and economic resources, and full human/institutional commitment to animal welfare.
Quantifying Sound Exposure in a Pool: Comparing Hydrophones on a Grid with a Sound-Recording Tag on a California Sea Lion (Zalophus californianus)
Authors: Kastelein Ronald A. , Van Acoleyen Laura , Tuytens Kimberly , Jansen Erwin , Terhune John M. , Jennings Nancy
Published: November 2024

Investigating anthropogenic acoustic disturbance and sound exposure in marine mammals requires evaluation of experimental approaches used to measure the sound levels experienced by the subjects. In previous research, exposure of California sea lions (Zalophus californianus) to eight narrow noise bands was estimated as the mean sound pressure level (SPL) measured by hydrophones placed at multiple locations and depths in a pool. We compare this method of SPL estimation with SPLs measured with a sound recording tag (“D-tag”). Measurements were taken from (1) hydrophones at locations on a grid; (2) a D-tag at the same locations; (3) a D-tag attached in its housing to a harness on a sea lion swimming freely in the pool; (4) a D-tag in its housing in one position in the pool; (5) a D-tag on the sea lion in one position in the pool; and (6) a D-tag turning in one location in the pool without its housing, in its housing, and on the sea lion while she rotated on her body axis. The SPLs recorded by the D-tag on a free-swimming sea lion were ~8 to 10 dB lower than those measured by the grid hydrophones, and the differences varied by frequency. These differences in SPL are caused by a combination of the directionality associated with the D-tag itself, the presence of the housing, acoustic effects of the sea lion’s body, and periods that the D-tag was out of the water during respirations. Measuring mean sound levels in test pools using hydrophones deployed on grids is valid; however, attaching tags to wild marine mammals may be more feasible than using hydrophone grids at sea. We summarize considerations when selecting a method to fit the design of future research.
Postgenomic aspects of resistance to acetylsalicylic acid in patients with coronary artery disease
Authors: Grinshtein Yu. I. , Kosinova A. A. , Maltseva A. N. , Subbotina T. N. , Semashchenko K. S. , Levagina P. I. , Shavrina E. O. , Savchenko A. A.
Published: November 2024

Aim. To study the expression level of the P-selectin gene (SELP) mRNA and the level of intercellular interaction in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) before and after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) in patients with resistance to acetylsalicylic acid (ASA).

Material and methods. The study included 65 patients with CAD who were scheduled to CABG. SELP expression, the platelet-leucocyte aggregate level, and the level of P-selectin expression on aggregates were determined in all participants. Resistance to ASA was defined as platelet aggregation with arachidonic acid ≥20% in at least one sample. All studies were performed before and on the 8th-10th day after CABG.

Results. Among patients, 29,4% (n=30) were resistant to ASA (ASA-R) at least at one point, while 7,8% (n=8) acquired resistance after CABG. ASA-R had a higher level of SELP (0,41 [0,28; 0,48] vs 0,32 [0,23; 0,39], p=0,037), absolute content of monocyte-platelet aggregates (24,70 [9,69; 39,90] vs 10,15 [5,27; 30,63], p=0,037) and relative amount of platelet-platelet CD62P aggregates (7,37% [3,43; 35,49] vs 4,84% [0,90; 9,63], p=0,045). A negative correlation was found between SELP expression and the relative content of monocyte-platelet aggregates (ρ=-0,349, p=0,013) on days 8-10 after CABG. Mmultivariate regression analysis found that the level of SELP gene mRNA expression is a predictor of ASA resistance before CABG (odds ratio 404,48; 95% confidence interval 1,68-97461,63).

Conclusion. Increased SELP expression is associated with an increase in platelet aggregation activity, which contributes to an insufficient platelet response to antithrombotic therapy in patients with CABG. The level of SELP gene mRNA expression can be considered as a predictor of ASA resistance.
Association of genetic polymorphisms of brain natriuretic peptide with cardiovascular diseases
Authors: Panarina A. Ya. , Lifshits G. I.
Published: November 2024

Currently, natriuretic peptides (including brain natriuretic peptide (BNP)) are widely used in clinical practice as biomarkers for various cardiovascular diseases. Study of the structure and function of NPPA-NPPB locus can help to better identify patients at risk of future cardiovascular diseases, in particular heart failure.
Molecular genetic indicators of the probability of early myocardial systolic dysfunction signs in doxorubicin chemotherapy in patients with breast cancer of moderate and low HFA-ICOS risk groups
Authors: Karput I. A. , Snezhitsky V. A. , Kurbat M. N. , Gorustovich O. A. , Kopytsky A. V. , Babenko A. S.
Published: November 2024

Aim. To study the association of rs2232228 (HAS3 gene), rs2229774 (RARG gene), rs1056892 (CBR3 gene), rs1786814 (CELF4 gene), rs1695 (GSTP1 gene), rs8187710 (ABCC2 gene), rs7853758 (SLC28A3 gene), rs243865 (MMP­2 gene), rs243866 (MMP­2 gene), rs35068180 (MMP­3 gene), rs522616 (MMP­3 gene), rs679620 (MMP­3 gene), rs17576 (MMP­9 gene), rs3918242 (MMP­9 gene) with the probability of early doxorubicin cardiotoxicity signs in patients with breast cancer of moderate and low HFA-ICOS risk groups.

Material and methods. The study included 100 patients (women, over 18 years old) diagnosed with breast cancer who received chemotherapy using doxorubicin.

To identify early cardiotoxicity signs, echocardiography was performed before, immediately after and 12 months after the end of chemotherapy. The status of polymorphic variants of the studied genes was determined by real-time polymerase chain reaction.

Results. Based on the decrease in global longitudinal myocardial strain (>12%) immediately after and 12 months after the end of chemotherapy, the patients were divided into two following groups: A — early signs of myocardial dysfunction can be diagnosed after the end of chemotherapy (19%); B — early signs of myocardial dysfunction are detected for the first time only 12 months after the chemotherapy end (17%). In patients from category A, a number of allelic variants and genotypes with potential as independent factors for predicting the early signs of myocardial dysfunction were identified, with an emphasis on targets involved in metabolism and detoxification of doxorubicin and its derivatives. In category B, the greatest differences in the frequencies of allelic variants and genotypes were found among target genes encoding matrix metalloproteinases involved in the processes of response to the intensification of oxidative stress caused by doxorubicin and its derivatives.

Conclusion. In total, patients in the low- and moderate-risk groups can be divided into at least 2 categories based on molecular genetic testing. For these categories, the development of early signs of doxorubicin-related myocardial dysfunction before the start of chemotherapy can be predicted.
Contribution of the OLR1 gene to the development of cardiovascular diseases
Authors: Pisarev V. M. , Fetlam D. L. , Chumachenko A. G. , Grechko A. V.
Published: November 2024

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of death in the world. Studies on the molecular genetic mechanisms aimed at detecting pathogenetically significant molecular targets, as well as searching for informative biomarkers remain relevant. Some of these predictive/prognostic marker candidates are the OLR1 gene products and polymorphisms.

The OLR1 gene encodes the lectin-like oxidized low-density lipoprotein receptor-1 (LOX-1), the expression of which increases in response to proinflammatory or proatherogenic factors. LOX-1 plays an important pathogenetic role in the development of CVD and type 2 diabetes. Single nucleotide polymorphisms in the OLR1 gene can be used as a genetic biomarker predicting the CVDs, necessary for stratification of patients into risk groups within the concept of personalized medicine, as well as potential therapeutic targets for patients with certain clinical phenotypes. This review examines the main genetic and epidemiological studies of the OLR1 gene association with CVDs and the etiopathogenetic mechanisms of the OLR1 gene influence on their development.
Effect of attachment of barnacles and oysters on concrete properties
Authors: Rong Hui , Meng Qi , Huang Junbo , Liu Xiaomin , Fei Jixin , Liu Zhihua , Huang Keqi
Published: November 2024

Barnacles and oysters (B&O) can quickly adhere to marine concrete structures, but there is no consensus on their effects. The properties and microstructure of concrete specimens with and without B&O adhered on the surface (BO and NBO specimens, respectively) at different ages were examined. B&O began to adhere to specimen surfaces after 56 days of exposure. After 240 days of exposure, the maximum chassis diameters of the B&O increased by 210% and 229%, respectively. The mass changes of NBO and BO groups were 1.443% and −0.493% after 240 days of exposure. Compared with the initial state, the compressive strength of NBO and BO groups increased by about 25.9% and 30.1%, respectively. The pH of NBO decreased from 12.0 to 8.0 after 240 days of exposure (about 143% of the decrease in BO). The neutralisation depth of NBO was 7.0 mm (about 233% of that of BO). The electric flux of NBO 0–50 mm from the concrete surface reached 932.8 C; the BO electric flux was only 556.5 C. The mass changes of NBO and BO after 100 freeze–thaw cycles were small. The amount of gypsum and ettringite and loss of C-S-H gel in NBO were more significant than those in BO, making the resistance of NBO 24.3% lower than that of BO. After 240 days of exposure, the maximum pore volume of NBO was 54.6% larger than that of BO. Within 240 days of exposure, the attachment of B&O positively affected concrete performance.
Understanding walking behaviour during COVID-19: binary logit and ANN approach
Authors: Günay Gürkan , Dündar Selim
Published: November 2024

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic had severe impacts on society. It negatively affected many sectors, and transportation is one of those. Naturally, the walking trip behaviour of individuals was also altered. This study aims to investigate the changes in walking trips of individuals by using two models: binary logit (BL) and artificial neural network (ANN). An online survey was conducted with 387 individuals. BL model investigated if respondents’ walking trips would increase during and after the pandemic. On the other hand, ANN models were developed to determine the significant factors in changes in walking behaviour. Results indicate that ANN models capture more factors than BL models. Demographics and attitudes toward public transportation, taxi, and walking trips during the pandemic are found to be effective in walking behaviour changes. Policies can be made to increase public transit ridership, and infrastructure for walking can be improved. Future research suggestions are given.
Persistent allergic rhinitis and its potential to cause poor asthma control
Authors: Aydin Cihan , Çakır Odabaş Gülsün , Omak Kaya Fulya , Yıldız Pınar
Published: November 2024

Objective: Many studies have shown the worsening impact of allergic rhinitis on the management of asthma. In this study, we aimed to address the association between persistent allergic rhinitis and poor asthma control.
Material and methods: This multi-center cross-sectional study was performed with the participation of patients with asthma and persistent allergic rhinitis visiting the pulmonology outpatient clinics between 01.02.2022 and 01.08.2022. The demographic data, Asthma Control Test (ACT) scores, and asthma control status of the patients were recorded. The sample was divided into two groups according to asthma control status "uncontrolled asthma" and "controlled asthma". The Score for Allergic Rhinitis (SFAR) was used to evaluate the diagnosis of allergic rhinitis (AR).
Results: We included 195 patients (47 (24.1%) men and 148 (75.9%) women) with a mean age of 44.54 in this study. While 26.7% of the patients showed asthma control, 73.3% had uncontrolled asthma. The rate of persistent allergic rhinitis was found to be significantly higher in the patients with uncontrolled asthma compared to the patients with controlled asthma (p=0.012).
Conclusion: This study showed that persistent allergic rhinitis has a worsening impact on asthma control. Patients with asthma and concomitant persistent allergic rhinitis should be treated and followed up considering their higher risk of poor asthma control. Those patients with persistent symptoms of rhinitis cause major problems in public health with the increased healthcare costs.
Asymptotic Statistical Theory for the Samples Problems using the Functional Empirical Process
Authors: Camara Abdoulaye , Fall Adja Mbarka , Diallo Moumouni
Published: November 2024

In this paper we study the asymptotic theory for samples problem based on the functional empirical process (fep), this new method is called general samples problem. We suggest this method to develop the full theory of estimation of means, variances, ratios of variances and differences of means for independent samples. We compare the results of our new method to the Gaussian method using simulated and real data. The obtained results are almost equivalent to those in the Gaussian case for samples's size equal to 10 . It has been prove that the estimation of the mean difference is very precise regardless of the equality or inequality of variances for greater sizes of sample. This method is recommended when the sizes of samples is around or greater that 15 and it requires the finiteness of the fourth order moment.
The Effect on Poly-β-hydroxybutyrate Production the Presence of Different Carbohydrate Sources in Bacillus ceresus and Cupriavidus necator
Authors: Kahraman Hüseyin , Karaderi Cennet Canan
Published: November 2024

Polyhydroxybutyrates (PHB) are granular polyesters synthesized by many bacteria as a carbon and energy source in environments where substances such as nitrogen, oxygen, carbon, and phosphorus are limited. Polyhydroxybutyrates is biodegradable, consisting of hydrophobic long chains, and is non-toxic. It is classified as one of the basic polymers of polyhydroxyalkanoates. In this study, the Polyhydroxybutyrates production of Bacillus cereus (ATCC 10876) and Cupriavidus necator (formerly Ralstonia eutropha ATCC17699) in the presence of different minimal carbon sources was investigated under static and shaking (150 rpm) states. According to the results of the research, the highest PHB production was observed in Bacillus cereus PBS + 1% xylose medium (7.395 µg/ml) in static conditions; Cupriavidus necator exhibited the highest production of polyhydroxybutyrates under shaking conditions in PBS + 1% fructose medium (9.626 µg/ml). The lowest polyhydroxybutyrates production was observed in Cupriavidus necator in PBS + 1% maltose medium (0.027 µg/ml) under static conditions; however, under shaking conditions, it was carried out in PBS + 1% dextrose medium (0.122 µg/ml). Considering these results, it is evident that there is an increase in the production of polyhydroxybutyrates by microorganisms as the shaking speed.
Caring Behaviour Perceived by Nursing Students; Gender Perspective
Authors: Elyeli Kemal , Öztürk Candan
Published: November 2024

Objective: This study aims to determine the care perceptions of nursing students according to the gender perspective.

Methods: This study is a cross-sectional, quantitative, and descriptive comparative study. In this study, the total sample of nursing students (n=495), consisting of Turkish students (n=334) and International students (n=161) from class/year one to four in the Faculty of Nursing were analysed. The data of the study were collected using the Student Assessment Forms and the Care Behavior Inventory and evaluated by IBM SPSS version 22.0. Nurses’ and patients’ caring behavior perceived by nursing students and other related factors were compared using both inferential and descriptive statistics.

Results: In this study, 69.9% of the participants were female, 30.1% were male. While the total score of the female nursing students was 5.23±0.69, the score of the male nursing students was 5.18±0.81. The difference between the total and subgroups’ score of the students according to their gender was not statistically significant. But, there is significant difference in the sub-dimensions of the scale according to the gender of the participants with some characteristics.

Conclusion: In this study, no significant difference was found between gender and perception of care in the scale total mean score of the participants. However, when some subgroups were analyzed according to gender, significant differences were found. In addition, the mean scores of female students were higher than those of male students.
Inventario de la flora vascular de Jalisco, México
Authors: Gudiño-Cano Ana Karem , De-Nova José Arturo , Ortíz Enriquez , Vargas-Ponce Ofelia , Carrillo-Reyes Pablo , Munguía-Lino Guadalupe , Villaseñor José Luis , Ruiz-Sanchez Eduardo
Published: November 2024

Antecedentes: Los inventarios florísticos documentan especies observadas en una región y constituyen aportes básicos para el conocimiento de sus recursos bióticos. Jalisco es uno de los estados con mayor riqueza florística a nivel nacional. Sin embargo, las constantes adiciones que se documentan con el trabajo exploratorio y los periódicos cambios taxonómicos hacen necesario tener un inventario actualizado de sus plantas vasculares.
Preguntas: ¿Cuál es la riqueza, endemismo y distribución de la flora vascular de Jalisco?
Especies de estudio: Traqueofitas.
Sitio y años de estudio: Jalisco; septiembre 2020 a febrero 2024.
Métodos: Se compiló una lista actualizada de especies a partir de revisión de literatura, consulta de especímenes del herbario IBUG y bases electrónicas disponibles en línea. Se estimó la riqueza total para el estado y para cada municipio. Se estimaron los índices de diversidad taxonómica y de complementariedad de especies entre municipios.
Resultados: La flora vascular incluyó 242 familias, 1,622 géneros y 7,110 especies. Se registraron 3,310 especies endémicas de México, 412 especies endémicas de Jalisco y 390 especies exóticas. Los municipios con más especies fueron Autlán de Navarro, Cuautitlán de García Barragán y La Huerta.
Conclusiones: La flora vascular de Jalisco ocupa el cuarto lugar entre las floras más ricas de México. El incremento en las cifras de riqueza, endemismo, incluso de especies introducidas, pone de manifiesto la necesidad de continuar documentando la flora mexicana.
Perceptions of nurses from Psychosocial Care Centers (CAPS) about practices performed during home visits
Authors: Catusso Daniela , Gil Pedro Henrique Conte
Published: November 2024

OBJECTIVE: Investigate perceptions about the practices performed by nurses during home visits carried out with patients treated at Psychosocial Care Centers (CAPS). METHOD: This exploratory research with a qualitative approach was carried out with six nurses at CAPS in a countryside city of Southern Brazil. Sociodemographic questionnaires and a semi-structured interview were applied, and the data were analyzed through Content Analysis. RESULTS: Results were organized into three categories: 1) Insufficient training of nursing professionals to work in CAPS; 2) Challenges faced by the nursing team during home visits; and 3) Impacts of the support network on the recovery process of patients. FINAL CONSIDERATIONS: The nurses participating in the study reported not having received adequate training during their undergraduate studies, making it necessary to seek knowledge by their own means. In addition, several challenges were noted during visits, such as patients' resistance to receiving the multidisciplinary team, incomplete or incorrect addresses, patients' absence during home visits, and the difficulty in reaching patients' families. Finally, the importance of family assistance as a support network for users with mental disorders was noted.
Isolating DNA from Wolbachia and Drosophila with the Puregene Tissue Kit v1
Authors: Njogu Alphaxand , Dylan Shropshire J.
Published: November 2024

This protocol is a modified version of the Puregene Tissue Kit manufacturer's protocol. It has been successfully used to isolate high-quality genomic DNA from various Drosophila tissues, including testes and ovaries. This method has also been used to extract DNA from the maternally transmitted Wolbachia endosymbiont of Drosophila.
Accelerating Rotarod Task in Mice v1
Authors: H. Roth Richard , Sun Yue , Hwang Fuu-Jiun , B. Ding Jun
Published: November 2024

This protocol describes an accelerating rotarod task used to study motor learning in mice.
Stereotaxic intracranial virus injection in mice v1
Authors: Hwang Fuu-Jiun , Sun Yue , H. Roth Richard , B. Ding Jun
Published: November 2024

This protocol outlines steps for conducting stereotaxic brain injections of virus in mice.
Ilumina library preparation and dual hybridization protocol of ERC GLOBAL v2
Authors: R C Soulé Vincent , Delaigue Theo , Mariac Cedric , LP Thomas Couvreur
Published: November 2024

Step by step protocol for library preparation of Annonaceae species within the ERC GLOBAL project. This protocol was followed for all libraries prepared within the project. Each step involves a purification phase (AMPure XP protocol), and is detailed at the start of this protocol. The protocol is done per series of 48 samples at a time with indexing. The protocol also describes the steps for the dual hybridization of Daicel Arbor Biosciences Mybaits Angiosperm353 kit + Custom Annonacea baiting kit. The protocol is based on hybridisation protocols used at DIADE research unit IRD Montpellier France and on the Hybridization Capture for Targeted NGS User Manual version 5 protocol "standard" of Daicel Arbor Biosciences Mybaits. To proceed DNA extraction of plant and in particular from herbarium and silicagel specimens of annonacea read the Annonaceae DNA extraction protocol from silicagel dried and herbarium preserved leaves Vincent Soulé1, Théo Delaigue1, Thomas LP Couvreur1, Cedric Mariac1 1DIADE, Univ Montpellier, CIRAD, IRD, Montpellier, France dx.doi.org/10.17504/protocols.io.5qpvorqx9v4o/v1
Head-fixed Locomotion Task in Mice v1
Authors: H. Roth Richard , J. Huang Charlie , B. Ding Jun
Published: November 2024

This protocol describes a head-fixed locomotion task used to study motor learning in mice suitable for recording neuronal activity concurrently.
Unburdening the (Dis)Connected Individual? A Digital Disconnection Policy Paradox in Flanders (Belgium)
Authors: Leyn Tom De , Verlinden Alice , Lemahieu Laura , Geldof Lore , Mennes Marthe , Cocchi Arturo , Martens Marijn , Abeele Mariek Vanden
Published: November 2024

The concept of digital disconnection, which refers to limiting digital media use for the sake of one’s well-being, has gained prominence in scholarly and public debates. Compared to a burgeoning digital disconnection industry that commodifies individuals’ struggles with constant connectivity, the development of evidence-based disconnection policies and regulations that support individuals to maintain digital well-being lags behind. The absence of digital disconnection policy may partly be due to a lack of studies investigating the contextual and institutional conditions in which policies and regulations are designed, implemented, and received. The few studies that do shed light on these conditions show that politicians’ and policymakers’ responses to digitalization involve discourses of individual responsibilization. Building on these insights, our study draws from in-depth interviews with 21 experts from organizations in Flanders (Belgium) who are responsible for digital well-being and digital disconnection across work, school, and family contexts. In particular, we have explored their perspectives on the challenges of constructing and implementing digital disconnection policies and regulations. Overall, the experts’ discourses reveal a conflict between striving for autonomy and the need for regulations concerning digital disconnection. This conflict leads to a digital disconnection policy paradox in which experts advocate for collective disconnection initiatives but ultimately resort to solutions on an individual level. We discuss the implications of our findings for the scholarly field of digital disconnection as well as for media policymakers.
Empowered by the Experience: Playing as Female Characters in Video Games
Authors: Lynch Teresa , Dooley Annie , Markowitz David M.
Published: November 2024

Research on female video game characters often investigates negative outcomes of playing as stereotyped characters. Yet, video games increasingly offer people opportunities to play as capable, prominent female characters that may be meaningful and promote positive outcomes (e.g., feelings of empowerment). This manuscript shares the results of a mixed methods survey of individuals (N = 751) recruited via online forums who recalled their experiences playing as female game characters. We analyzed qualitative response data using a traditional, top-down approach to identify themes. We focus our analysis and discussion on the results of a human-derived analysis, which indicated both positive and negative dimensions of experiences that participants found meaningful. Participants reported that taking on the role of a female character was often very important to them, but the reason for this significance varied across players. Often, these reasons involved their own gender identities and the context in which the gameplay occurred (e.g., online multiplayer). We consider findings as evidence of eudaimonic media effects.
Association between Sleep Quality and Personality Based on the Big Five Factor Model in a Non-clinical Sample
Authors: Marques de Souza Lucas Santana , Faro André
Published: November 2024

Introduction. Sleep is essential for maintaining health, well-being, and functionality. The personality traits of the Five Factor Model (FFM) have proven promising as determinants of sleep quality. Objective. To explore the relationship between personality traits and sleep quality in a Brazilian sample by testing a predictive model based on multiple linear regression. Method. The study involved 447 adult participants (with an average age of 37.7 years), who completed an online survey including the following instruments: a sociodemographic questionnaire, the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI-BR), the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-4), and the Big Five Inventory (BFI). Participants were selected through social media advertisements calling for volunteers for a study on sleep quality. Results. The regression model revealed that age, educational attainment, family income, BMI, neuroticism, and psychopathological symptoms were predictors of sleep quality. The gender, conscientiousness, extraversion, and agreeableness variables were not predictors of sleep quality in the multivariate analysis. Discussion and conclusion. The study emphasizes the role of neuroticism in predicting sleep quality over other personality traits. Additionally, the results suggest that the risk of or protection against the development of anxiety and depressive symptoms is a key mechanism linking personality traits to sleep. These findings can therefore contribute to identifying individuals at risk for sleep disturbances and developing health intervention strategies.
Validity and Reliability of Turkish Language Version of Baby Preparation and Worry Scale
Authors: Erbil Nülüfer , Alpaslan Arar Mevlüde , Yıldırım Fatma
Published: November 2024

Introduction. The Baby Preparation and Anxiety Scale (Baby-PAWS) is the only instrument focusing on expectant mothers’ practical concerns about the transition to parenthood (being able to care for the baby, securing childcare, personal well-being, and partner involvement) and measuring these parameters. Objective. The aim of this study is to determine the validity and reliability of Baby-PAWS, by adapting it to the Turkish population. Method. Two hundred and twenty expectant mothers over the age of eighteen in the third trimester of pregnancy were included in our methodological study. The content and language of Baby-PAWS were also validated. Data were subsequently obtained through confirmatory and explanatory factor analysis, correlation analysis and the Cronbach’s alpha coefficient test. Results. It was found that although the Turkish language version of Baby-PAWS did not have three sub-dimensions as in the original, the one-dimensional Baby-PAWS was a valid, reliable scale tool suitable for the Turkish population. Cronbach’s alpha coefficient of the revised scale was .85. Discussion and conclusion. The Turkish language version of Baby-PAWS is a suitable instrument in terms of language and content validity, and its single-factor structure can be applied to the Turkish population and correctly identify expectant mothers’ concerns about self-care, partner/relationship issues, self-care, and relying on others to care for the baby after its birth.
Navigation literacy of primary health care personnel (using the example of the heads of medical and obstetric centers in Orenburg region)
Authors: Begun D. N. , Bulychev V. V. , Bulycheva E. V. , Borshchuk E. L.
Published: November 2024

Objective. To assess navigation literacy of primary health care personnel (using the example of the heads of medical and obstetric centers in Orenburg region).
Materials and methods. Navigation literacy of primary health care personnel was assessed among all heads of medical and obstetric centers in Orenburg region (n = 58). For this purpose, a single-stage continuous online survey was conducted using a combined questionnaire developed by the Central Research Institute for Healthcare Organization and Informatization of the Ministry of Heath of the Russian Federation.
Results. The level of navigation literacy among the heads of the medical and obstetric centers of Orenburg region in 65.7 % of cases was excellent and sufficient. In the list of navigation skills, the heads of the medical and obstetric centers noted difficulties in the implementation of: issues of medical insurance (48.3 %), legal aspects of medical care and protection of patients' rights (27.5-48.3 %), healthcare reform (36.2 %). It was found out that from 63.7 % to 91.4 % of the heads of the medical and obstetric centers are aware of the ongoing state measures in the field of public health. The majority of the respondents (60.0 %) noted that they search for necessary information for professional purposes using digital tools. However, every third respondent (32.7 %) mentioned the difficulties in finding it on legislative issues, interpreting the quality and safety of food products according to their product labeling (27.6 %), solving problems related to mental health and well-being (18.9 %). These data demonstrate the need to improve navigation literacy of medical and obstetric centers managers in the digital environment.
Conclusions. The modern multilevel and multicomponent healthcare system is associated with the need to improve the navigation literacy of medical personnel. The data obtained determined the main directions for improving navigation literacy of the heads of medical and obstetric centers.
A clinical case of skin lymphocytoma in a young woman
Authors: Kobernik Marina Y. , Elkin Vladimir D. , Krasilnikova Zlata A. , Plotnikova E. V.
Published: November 2024

A 25-year-old woman came to consult a dermatovenerologist. The woman complained of a rapidly progressing painless lump on the right wing of her nose which developed after photo-rejuvenation treatment and the development of herpetic infection.in the place of a previous lipoma removed by radio wave surgery. The clinical picture was characterized by a solitary disc-shaped plaque, 2 cm in size, bluish-reddish-brownish in color, of a doughy consistency, significantly protruding above the skin surface, with clear borders and a smooth, shiny surface. There was a complex differential diagnostics, the final diagnosis was confirmed by the results of a histological examination, which revealed changes characteristic of lymphocytoma. The patient was treated with aminoquinoline preparations and topical glucocorticosteroids and rapid positive dynamics with complete regression of the skin pathological process was observed.
A clinical case of skin lymphocytoma that occurred after several successive trigger factors such as lipoma formation and removal, photo rejuvenation procedures, and herpes infection is presented in the article. This is a fairly rare disease that does not have a pathognomonic clinical picture, so it is difficult to differentiate and diagnose it. The results of a pathomorphological examination are essential for the diagnosis. A positive effect with a complete regression of skin changes can quickly occur if treated correctly.
Influence of glycodelin on the formation of immune response at the level of T-helpers and T-regulatory cells in an in vivo experiment
Authors: Zamorina Svetlana A. , Troynich Yana N. , Loginova N. P. , Chemurzieva N. V. , Bochkova M. S. , Timganova V. P. , Vlasova V. V. , Rayev M. B.
Published: November 2024

Objective. To study the influence of glycodelin on T-helpers and Tregs level in the process of forming an immune response to the introduction of allogeneic bone marrow (BM) cells in a dynamic experiment on Wistar rats.
Materials and methods. The original experimental model "host versus transplant reaction" on male Wistar rats without preliminary conditioning in recipients was used in the study. Animals were administered recombinant glycodelin against the background of allogeneic intraperitoneal transplantation of BM cells in a dynamic experiment. The level of peripheral T-helpers (CD4+) and Tregs (CD4+CD25+FOXP3+), and the expression of FOXP3 in the spleen and mesenteric lymph nodes were assessed. The material was collected on the 3rd and 21st days of the experiment.
Results. Glycodelin was shown to reduce the absolute number of T-helpers in the peripheral blood (on the 3rd and 21st days) and to increase the proportion of Tregs on the 21st day of the experiment against the background of the introduction of allogeneic BM cells. It was found out, that glycodelin reduced the level of Tregs in the white pulp of the spleen on the 3rd day of the experiment, while the number of these cells on the 21st day increased, reducing the number of T-helpers at the same time. At the level of the mesenteric lymph nodes, glycodelin reduced the level of T-helpers on the 21st day of the experiment, simultaneously increasing the number of Tregs. In general, a unidirectional and distributed effect of glycodelin on the immune response at the level of T-helpers was observed, that was a decrease of T-helpers, but an increase of Tregs on the 21st day of the experiment.
Conclusion. Thus, glycodelin had an immunomodulatory effect on T-helpers and Tregs formation. The vector of the obtained effects was immunosuppressive in nature and contributed to the suppression of the immune response to allogeneic cells.
Comparative assessment of the quality of life in patients with bronchial asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease before and after COVID-19
Authors: Svist Polina G. , Torchinsky N. V. , Avdeev Sergey N. , Briko N. I.
Published: November 2024

Objective. To compare the quality of life of patients with bronchial asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) before and after COVID-19.
Materials and methods. 73 patients diagnosed with bronchial asthma and 78 patients with COPD who were treated at Sechenov University Clinical Hospital №4, participated in the retrospective dynamic comparative study based on the principle «from cause to effect». Assessment of the quality of the patients` life was carried out before and after COVID-19 using a visual analogue scale from 0 to 100 points and the universal EuroQol-5D questionnaire. Mobility, self-care abilities, habitual activity, severity of pain/discomfort, the presence of anxiety/depression in the post-COVID period were assessed.
Results. In patients with COPD before COVID-19, the average total score on the visual–analogue scale was 89,5 [83,8; 95], and after COVID-19 it was 70 [64,5; 80] points. In the post-covid period, 91 % of people with COPD noted some mobility limitations, 33.3 % experienced difficulties with self-care, 65.4 % of patients could not engage in habitual activities, 60.3 % suffered pronounced pain or discomfort, and 29.5 % of patients had severe anxiety or depression. In patients with asthma before COVID-19, the average total score was 90 [88,4; 91] points, and after COVID-19 it was 75 [70,2; 80,2]. In the post-ovarian period, mobility limitations were noted by 71.2 % of patients, and 64.4 % had difficulties with taking care of themselves, 54.8 % could not engage in habitual activities. At the same time, 78.1 % of patients experienced pain or discomfort, and 58.9 % had moderate anxiety or depression.
Conclusions. COVID-19 has led to a significant decrease in the quality of life in patients with asthma and COPD. This may be associated with a worsening of the course of the disease and increase in the number of exacerbations of these pulmonary pathologies, resulting in significant limitation of mobility, growing pain or discomfort, as well as the occurrence of severe anxiety or depression.
Perforated gastroduodenal ulcers: perioperative prognosis and prevention of complications
Authors: Samartsev Vladimir A. , Parshakov Aleksandr A. , Kuznetsova Marina P. , Muhanov Aleksandr A.
Published: November 2024

Objective. To improve the effectiveness of treatment for patients with perforated gastroduodenal ulcers (PGDU) by developing criteria for predicting postoperative complications and mortality.
Materials and methods. The treatment outcomes of 127 patients with PGDU were analyzed. Prognostic scales ASA, SOFA, Peptic Ulcer Perforation Score (PULP), and the Mannheim Peritonitis Index (MPI) were used for the assessment in all the patients. Specialized classifications (DEP and ulcer defect classes) developed at Sklifosovsky Research Institute For Emergency Medicine were employed to determine the surgical approach and the extent of surgical intervention.
Results. Duodenal ulcers were observed in 97(76.4 %) patients, gastric ulcers in 28(22.0 %), and combined ulcers in 2(1.6 %). According to the clinical form, chronic ulcers were identified in 81 (63.8 %) patients, while acute ones were detected in 46(36.2 %) patients. Helicobacter pylori infection was revealed in all patients with chronic ulcers. The majority of patients sought medical care within the first 6 hours after perforation (53 patients, 41.7 %); from 6 to 12 hours – 24 patients (18.9 %), 12–24 hours – 17 patients (13.4 %), and in more than 24 hours – 33 patients (26.0 %). Fatal outcome occurred in 45 (35.4 %) patients, while 82 (64.4 %) patients were discharged after the recovery had been observed. The mortality rate was significantly higher in patients with MPI grades 2 and 3, in those with an initially high risk according to the PULP scale, and those who were hospitalized more than 24 hours after perforation. Indications for laparoscopic ulcer suturing were proposed based on the scales used.
Conclusions. The risk factors for adverse outcomes in PGDU include the following criteria: surgery performed more than 24 hours after perforation, MPI 2-3 grades, and a PULP scale score more than 8. In patients with PGDU who are at high surgical-anesthetic risk and have a complicated comorbid background, the risk of sepsis development is more than 30 %. Laparoscopic techniques for suturing PGDU are preferable when performed within 6 hours of perforation, with a PULP score not more than 7, MPI grade 1, and DEP classification scores less than 9, specifically in IIC, IIIC, IVA, IVB, and IVC ulcer defect classes.
Influence of intestinal permeability and endotoxinemia on the course of asthma in obese patients
Authors: Grakhova Maria A. , Troshina Irina A. , Golubeva T. I. , Pavlova A. M. , Pluzhnikova Anna P.
Published: November 2024

Objective. To study the characteristics of asthma with a severe course in obese patients and to evaluate the relationship of the level of intestinal endotoxin (ET) and fecal zonulin with clinical, laboratory and instrumental indicators in such patients.
Materials and methods. The study included 98 patients with asthma combined with obesity (group 1 – mild asthma (n = 47), group 2 – severe asthma (n = 51)) and 45 obese patients without asthma composed the comparison group. A complete standard examination and tests were conducted in all the patients. Intestinal ET, fecal zonulin, TNF-a, IFN-g, IL-4, 6, 10, 17, total IgE levels were assessed as well. The IBM SPSS Statistics 26.0 application software package was used for statistical calculations. The results were considered as statistically significant at the level of p 0,05.
Results. In patients of both groups, the average age of onset was 43 years. The median duration of BA characteristics was higher in patients of group 2: 14 [10; 19] years (p = 0.013). In all groups, CRPhs values increased significantly and the highest ones were in patients with severe asthma (p 0.001). Significantly lower levels of FVC, FEV1, FEV1/FVC, IL-10 (p0.001) with uncontrolled course of asthma (p = 0.008) and rare control (p = 0.009) occurred in patients of group 2. Higher levels of TNF-a, IFN-g, IL-6,17, intestinal ET, fecal zonulin were revealed in patients of group 2 (p≤0.001). The level of fecal zonulin positively correlated with the level of intestinal ET in patients of group 2 (p0.001, rs=0.813). In patients of group 2 direct correlations of the fecal zonulin and intestinal ET with BMI, WC, HC, WC/HC, lack of BA control, CRPhs, TNF-a, IL-6,17, IFN-g, LDL were established and inverse correlations were with IL-10, HDL, FEV1, AST; a negative correlation of fecal zonulin levels with FVC was also revealed.
Conclusions. The obtained results allow us to speak about the existence of a clinical complex “severe asthma – obesity – intestinal endotoxemia and increased intestinal permeability” which is characterized by the predominance of pro-inflammatory markers, increased levels of intestinal ET and fecal zonulin, reduced function of external breathing.
Influence of dental prostheses materials on the condition of oral mucosa local homeostasis
Authors: Pervov Yu. Y. , Bocharov V. S. , Kim A. R. , Reva Galina V.
Published: November 2024

Objective. To study the influence of base materials used in the manufacture of removable dentures on the immune homeostasis of the oral mucosa, and, as a consequence, on the clinical condition of the oral mucosa and periodontium of supporting teeth. To create fundamental principles for the development of a pathogenetically substantiated choice of basic dental materials of various chemical natures for removable prosthetics based on the analysis of the parameters of immune homeostasis of the oral mucosa.
Materials and methods. 154 patients aged 40 to 85 using dentures based on acrylic, polyurethane plastics and thermoplastics for 6 months, participated in the study. Indicators of immune homeostasis and the identified clinical manifestations of the influence of the prosthesis material such as chronic periodontitis and gingivitis were compared using the statistical method of conjugate multifield tables.
Results. The indicators CD4+/CD8+, CD11/CD303, CD68, CD204, CD163, Ki-67 phenotypic markers were determined in gingival biopsies of the prosthetic bed of patients using dentures based on acrylic, polyurethane and thermoplastic for 6 months. Analysis of the statistical significance of differences proved the influence of the prosthesis material on indicators of cellular immune homeostasis, with a shift of homeostasis towards the pro-inflammatory phenotype, and the suppression of the anti-inflammatory factor in circulating monocytes.
Conclusions. The study shows that, although each type of removable dentures has its own advantages and disadvantages, the response of the cellular immunity of the oral mucosa to polyurethane dentures is less than to acrylic and thermoplastic ones in relation to the control group. The use of polyurethane prostheses is reasonable as temporary ones during the healing stage of surgical interventions in the oral cavity, in particular tooth extraction and implantation. This type of prosthesis can be recommended as a permanent one for patients with a severe allergic reaction, especially to polymer compounds and dyes.
Modern methods of treatment of complicated forms of pilonidal cyst
Authors: Kchibekov E. A. , Zurnadzhyants V. A. , Dzhabrailov R. A. , Gasanov K. G. , Zurnadzhyants A. V. , Shikhragimov M. I.
Published: November 2024

There are several theories of the origin of diseases of the epithelial coccygeal tract: empirical, neurogenic, ectodermal and acquired. Most Russian scientists consider this pathology to be congenital, while foreign colleagues believe that it is a consequence of sacrococcygeal area injuries. This pathology is quite common, affecting more than 5 % of the adult population, it also occurs in children and adolescents. This disease decreases the quality of patients` life significantly, affecting all aspects of their life.
Conservative methods of treatment do not provide a complete cure, since they do not eliminate the causes of the disease. These include sclerotherapy and obliteration of the cavity with silver nitrate or hydrochloric acid. These methods are not used nowadays.
Surgical treatment is the most effective one for this pathology. Surgical intervention, despite its apparent simplicity, turns out to be quite complex, which makes it inaccessible to any general surgeon. Treatment results are often disappointing due to the high incidence of complications after surgery, as well as the long period of activity limitation. Therefore, the resulting rough scar is a cosmetic defect, and the risk of recurrence remains quite high. Studying the literature data, one can see that the authors` opinions concerning surgical tactics for this disease differ. At the moment, there is no single approach and surgical tactic for the treatment of epithelial pilonidal cyst. The problem of creating and introducing new methods of treatment of pilonidal disease remains relevant nowadays.