bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Stictococcus vayssierei Richard (Hemiptera: Stictococcidea) on growth and yield of cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz)
Authors:   Department of Plant Biology, Plant Pathology Laboratory, University of Yaoundé 1, Yaoundé, Cameroon, Patrice Zemko Ngatsi , Bekolo Ndongo ,   Department of Plant Biology, Plant Pathology Laboratory, University of Yaoundé 1, Yaoundé, Cameroon, Désiré Anaba Manga ,   Department of Plant Biology, Plant Pathology Laboratory, University of Yaoundé 1, Yaoundé, Cameroon, Eric Biyo’a Ndongo ,   Department of Plant Biology, Plant Pathology Laboratory, University of Yaoundé 1, Yaoundé, Cameroon, Champlain Djieto-Lordon ,   Department of Plant Animals, University of Yaoundé 1, Yaoundé, Cameroon
Published: February 2025

Cassava cultivation faces many constraints including various pathogens and pests. Among the pests of cassava, the African Root and Tuber Scale (ARTS) Stictococcus vayssierei (Hemiptera: Stictococcidea) is a sap-sucking insect that colonizes tubers and roots of cassava plants in humid Central Africa. Infestation by this pest affects plant physiology and severely reduces the productivity, causing 60 to100% yield losses in the field. The objective of this study is to evaluate the harmful effect of S. vayssierei on cassava yield in the field. The experiment was carried out using a completely randomized Fisher's blocs design with four replicate on six cassava varieties, four of which were improved and two local. During 12 months with a sampling interval of three months, the number of scale insects per plant, growth parameters, incidence and severity of the most important diseases, as well as yield were evaluated. As result, at 12 months after planting (MAP), the highest fresh shoot weight (2.69 ± 0.43 kg) as well as of fresh tuber yield (23.8 t ha-1) were obtained with the local variety Douma; at opposite, the Excel variety produces the lowest fresh shoot weight (1.69 ± 0.15 kg) and yield (14.1 t.ha-1). The average number of scale insects per plant (ARTS/P) was greater with the Excel variety (90.12 ARTS/P) and lowest on the 96/0023 variety (58.14 ARTS/P). In addition to ARTS infestation, two biotic constraints, namely cassava mosaic disease (CMD) and cassava anthracnose disease (CAD), appeared in the plots, with varying incidence and severity. Finally, it appeared that S. vayssierei through damage to cassava plants leads to a decrease in the productivity of cassava varieties, especially on improved varieties.
Implementation of an orthopaedic triage service for osteoarthritis in the New Zealand health system: A retrospective audit
Authors: Stilwell Jennifer A. , Reid Duncan , Larmer Peter
Published: February 2025

Orthopaedic triage services led by advanced physiotherapy practitioners (APPs) have been shown to be effective health care models in the management of osteoarthritis. Despite this, New Zealand health systems have only recently begun to implement and evaluate these models of care. The implementation of the community orthopaedic triage service (COTS) within the Bay of Plenty District Health Board (BOPDHB) was piloted to improve the patient journey through the health system by providing earlier assessment and referral to the most appropriate intervention. This retrospective audit analysed data collected from patients assessed in the COTS and orthopaedic outpatients between September 1 2020 to September 1 2021. Results show the COTS saw 49–52% of the volume of patients referred to orthopaedic outpatients. The mean (SD) wait time to be seen in the COTS was 37.3 (32.8) days compared to 157.7 (56.2) days in orthopaedics. Eighty per cent of patients referred to orthopaedics from the COTS were appropriate for first specialist appointment, with 65% being listed for surgery by an orthopaedic surgeon. Adoption of these pathways has the potential to facilitate earlier assessment and access to intervention, thus improving the musculoskeletal health of New Zealanders.
Does physiotherapy research in South Korea match international best-practice osteoarthritis guidelines? A narrative review
Authors: Park Mi La , Magni Nico , O'Brien Daniel W.
Published: February 2025

The aim of this study was to explore physiotherapy-based osteoarthritis (OA) research conducted in South Korea, with a focus on the utilisation of conservative management, and to assess its alignment with international clinical practice guidelines (CPGs). Databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL and SPORTDiscus – accessed via EBSCOhost) and Google Scholar were searched to identify clinical articles and trials focused on research related to OA management in physiotherapy conducted in South Korea. A total of 11 studies met the inclusion criteria, with nine being randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and one utilising a prospective design and one a quasi-experimental approach. These studies employed various interventions such as kinesiology tape (KT), electrotherapies, and exercise. None of the studies implemented education, self-management, and weight control as management. There is a discrepancy between research-based physiotherapy for OA management in South Korea and international CPGs. These findings may be explained by factors such as education, healthcare systems, and cultural differences.
Promoting the Responsible Development of Speech Datasets for Mental Health and Neurological Disorders Research
Authors: Mancini Eleonora , Tanevska Ana , Galassi Andrea , Galatolo Alessio , Ruggeri Federico , Torroni Paolo
Published: February 2025

Current research in machine learning and artificial intelligence is largely centered on modeling and performance evaluation, less so on data collection. However, recent research demonstrated that limitations and biases in data may negatively impact trustworthiness and reliability. These aspects are particularly impactful on sensitive domains such as mental health and neurological disorders, where speech data are used to develop AI applications for patients and healthcare providers. In this paper, we chart the landscape of available speech datasets for this domain, to highlight possible pitfalls and opportunities for improvement and promote fairness and diversity. We present a comprehensive list of desiderata for building speech datasets for mental health and neurological disorders and distill it into an actionable checklist focused on ethical concerns to foster more responsible research.
Investigation of the relationship between time investment and language learning through digital games
Authors: Habeb Liqaa , Pikhart Marcel , Tawafak Ragad , Klimova Blanka
Published: February 2025

As the use of digital games in foreign language learning has increased, there is a demand for investigations that would offer a window into contemporary breakthroughs in this growingly prominent field of foreign language learning. A plethora of research papers have dealt with the effects of digital gaming on language skills, such as vocabulary and speaking. However, to date, there is a scarcity of studies that examine how the amount of time spent on digital games influences the development of a second language. Thus, the present study attempts to determine if there is any correlation between the amount of time spent on digital games (non-instructional games) and second language development. It also attempts to verify whether there is any effect of games played on their attitudes toward digital gaming as a type of informal digital language learning. The methodology used is quantitative using the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM). The sample consisted of 350 college students from Iraq and the Czech Republic who all study English as a foreign language. The findings reveal a weak correlation between the digital games played, which means there is no impact between the time of playing and TAM factors. It further reveals that the most engaging and popular game among students was PUBG and that students’ attitudes are affected positively depending on the game they played. Finally, the findings clarified that TAM factors can be positively affected by language skill development through the use of digital games in learning.
Gamification in Physics Education: Play Your Way to Better Learning
Authors: Richter Katharina , Kickmeier-Rust Michael
Published: February 2025

This research investigates the effectiveness of gamification in enhancing student engagement, motivation, and learning outcomes in physics education, with a particular emphasis on structural performance modeling through Knowledge Space Theory (KST). The study utilizes Basketball Physics Challenge  - a game designed to teach fundamental physics concepts like initial velocity, motion, and trajectory - and compares the outcomes of gamified versus non-gamified learning environments. The experimental design involved 10th grade students from a secondary school in Liechtenstein, using a crossover methodology where participants alternated between gamified and non-gamified versions of the game. The results indicate that gamification significantly boosts engagement and performance metrics, as evidenced by increased time on task, a higher frequency of attempts, and better scores compared to the non-gamified condition. Additionally, gamification positively influences motivation, particularly when experienced before non-gamified sessions. Although quiz performance did not show significant differences between conditions, a strong positive correlation was observed between game scores and quiz points in the gamified condition during the second session. The study, furthermore, analyzed structural performance and learning trajectories, demonstrating that gamification fosters a more dynamic and effective learning process. This study highlights the potential of gamification to transform physics education by enhancing student motivation and engagement, thereby promoting a deeper understanding and retention of complex scientific concepts.
Exploring Educational Exergames in Wellbeing Education: A Study Finnish Primary School
Authors: Sinnemäki Jukka , Abrori Fadhlan Muchlas , Prodromou Theodosia , Lavicza Zsolt , Fenyvesi Kristof , Jarvis Daniel H.
Published: February 2025

Integrating exergames into well-being education has garnered substantial attention for promoting physical wellness. This study focused on assessing student preferences in exergames, particularly examining variables such as game selection, difficulty level, and collaborative mode. Furthermore, we scrutinized play duration across these variables to gain an in-depth understanding. Our exploration was guided by self-determination theory, centering on autonomy, competence, and relatedness concepts. Conducted within a primary school in Jyväskylä, Finland, our study utilized iWall, an Interactive Gaming Wall, to capture data on these variables, amassing 1707 data points from student frequency log data. Analysis of game frequency delineates game preferences emphasizing physical endurance, rhythmic coordination, and multiplayer engagement. Correlation analyses illuminate the dynamic interaction between game types and difficulty levels, elucidating the connection between gaming challenges and student choices. Moreover, examining play duration underscores how game genres significantly impact gameplay duration, emphasizing the need for diversified cognitive and physical challenges in exergame design. These findings are anticipated to offer insights into future exergame development for well-being education, drawing from a detailed understanding of student preferences established in this study.
Editorial, Vol. 12, No. 1
Authors: Bellotti Francesco
Published: February 2025

Editorial of IJSG Vol. 12, No. 1.
Community translation in the context of the translation and cross-cultural adaptation of patient reported outcome measures: a South African perspective
Authors: De Klerk Susan , Lesch Harold M
Published: February 2025

Occupational Therapists should use relevant patient reported outcome measures as part of providing evidence for occupational therapy intervention. Measures must be responsive, valid and reliable for use in all health sectors. An essential requirement is that the measure be available in the language of the populations it is intended for. As most measures are developed in the English language for use in English speaking countries, we put forward an opinion on the practice of community translation during the translation and cross-cultural adaption of patient reported outcome measures towards increased clinical utility in the public health sector of South Africa.Â
Clinical utility of three sensory modulation measures for the child with ASD in South Africa: A Practitioners' Perspective
Authors: Rencken Gina , Evetts Kerry , Govender Pragashnie
Published: February 2025

Background: There is need for the assessment of sensory modulation in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) to be culturally, environmentally, economically and language sensitive to the South African population. It is assumed that the measures in current use are not appropriate, acceptable, practical or accessible for the South African child with ASD.Aim: This study sought the practitioners' perspective on the clinical utility of three sensory modulation measures for children diagnosed with ASD in South Africa.Methods: A quantitative survey method was used to collect data from a purposive sample of 31 SAISI Occupational Therapy members nationwide.Results: Urban participants accounted for 83% of the sample, 80% were in private practice and 67% from English-speaking practices. All three measures demonstrated some level of clinical utility. The Sensory Processing Measure (SPM) was found to be more appropriate than the Sensory Profile (SP) (p<0.007), although the SP was more accessible than the SPM (p<0.002). Amongst non- English speakers the Sensory Experiences Questionnaire (SEQ) was more acceptable than the SPM (p<0.045).Recommendations: The SPM should be used in an interview format, with recommended changes and translation into the caregivers' home language, until a South African specific sensory screening measure, which can be readily reproducible in several local languages, is developed.
Coping Styles and Sources of Stress of Undergraduate Health Science Students: An Integrative Review
Authors: Chetty Odell , Henderson Robyn Marcella , Gurayah Thavanesi
Published: February 2025

Background and aim: Tertiary education provides many personal and social benefits. However, students, particularly those from professional and health science disciplines are known to face significantly greater stress throughout their undergraduate degrees. In this integrative review sources of stress for students and the strategies they use to cope with the stress are explored.Method: Various databases were searched using common key phrases such as "stressors among undergraduate health science students" and "coping mechanisms utilised by undergraduate health science students". Thirty-three articles were selected based on predetermined inclusion and exclusion criteria. The content in the articles were analysed to identify themes.Results: Academic stress was the primary source of stress for health science students. Other sources of stress included interpersonal interactions and clinical training. Students primarily used problem-focused strategies to cope with stress. Other strategies included avoidance and the use of social support networks.Conclusion: Health science students experience stress from academic tasks, interpersonal stress and stresses emanating from clinical training. They utilize problem-focused coping strategies, as well as avoidance and seeking social support when faced with stressful situations. Students would benefit from regular screening for stress-related conditions, and interventions to teach them more adaptive ways to deal with stress.
Psychometric properties of the Self-Care Inventory for Children with Cerebral Palsy in a resource-constrained urban South African Context
Authors: Seward Caroline , Franzsen Denise
Published: February 2025

Introduction: For children with cerebral palsy (CP), conducting self-care tasks may be difficult due to physical and cognitive problems. Accurate assessment of children with CP is needed for realistic intervention. The Self-Care Inventory for Children with Cerebral Palsy (SCICP) was developed by Julia Burg in 2016. The SCICP is a caregiver reported questionnaire that aims to assess the extent to which a CP child can conduct their self-care tasks independently. Burg created the SCICP due to the lack of a valid assessment tool for the South African population to assess CP children's self-care abilities. The aim of the study was to investigate selected psychometric properties of the SCICP in terms of known-group validity, concurrent validity with the gross motor function, and manual abilities of the children with CP as well as the tool's diagnostic accuracy.Method: A quantitative cross-sectional, non-experimental study design with the caregivers of 50 children with CP (0 to 8-years-old), and 50 typically developing children (0 to 6-years-old) was conducted. Data were collected at two hospitals in the Ekurhuleni district in Gauteng, South Africa. The caregivers completed a demographic questionnaire and the SCICP assessment tool for each child. Descriptive statistics and non-parametric statistics including the Mann- Whitney U test as well as Spearman's correlation co-efficient were used to analyse the data, since data were ordinal. Sensitivity andÂ specificity and internal consistency were also established.Results: The SCICP differentiates between children who are typically developing and children with CP who present with developmental delay on the overall score. For some components of self-care activities for the 0 to 1-year-old children, the difference in scores is not significant since typically developing children of this age may be dependent in many self-care tasks.Conclusion: The SCICP shows promising results for use in the clinical setting to identify deficits in CP children's ability to perform their self-care tasks and provide guidance for intervention for self-care for children with CP.Keywords: cerebral palsy; resource-constrained environment; self-care; participation; evaluation; known-group validity; functional mobility; low socio-economic status
Community mobility and transport use of urban adults who attend public healthcare in Gauteng, South Africa
Authors: Van Biljon Hester , Van Niekerk Lana
Published: February 2025

Introduction: Older adults with limited socio-economic means, living in South Africa's most densely populated province, Gauteng, have experienced historical restriction and challenges to their freedom of movement. Interviews were conducted with older adults attending public healthcare facilities that offered rehabilitation service in Gauteng, to capture their community mobility experience and the modes of transport they used. These interviews explored the difficulties the older adults experienced and the strategies they employed to overcome them, with an invitation for them to give suggestions for improvement.Â Method: An exploratory concurrent mixed methods study design saw 84 rehabilitation clinicians, interview 393 older adults visiting public healthcare facilities where the clinicians practiced. Clinicians kept 109 field notes and took part in a cumulative five hours of discussion. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics and qualitative data through inductive content analysis.Â Results: Walking and mini-bus taxis were the most prominent forms of community mobility. Fiscal and transport poverty, crime and poor infrastructure were barriers participants experienced.Â  Community involvement and leadership accountability were suggested solutions.Â Conclusion: Involving stakeholders themselves in conceptualising and applying solutions to challenges is an acknowledged approach within the collectivist paradigm. The community mobility and transport use realities of older adults, and the rehabilitation professionals who interviewed them, as well as the existing strategies and suggestions they gave to overcome the barriers they experienced should be taken note of by policy makers and service providers. The presentation of these is to stimulate further consideration and development.Â Key words: transport poverty; limited socio-economic means; community involvement; leadership accountability; stake holders, ubuntu
"Walking with a smile but her shoulders are hanging down"- exploring "Coloured" women's occupational resistance in the face of personal, historied and societal suffocation
Authors: Christopher Chantal Juanita , Joubert Robin Wendy , Pillay Mershen
Published: February 2025

Women in South African townships remain an invisible population in terms of understanding their lives and the implications on wellbeing. "Coloured" women's narratives problematize and critically explore their lived realities as socially constructed oppression, that has not been addressed following the end of legislated apartheid. The politics of the personal, display the matrix of domination at play, in a specific sociocultural milieu while contrapuntally illustrating their standing up to resist capitulation. These actions and activities are occupations of resistance, occupations that are in opposition to, and possibly a reaction to perceived injustice as well as the suppression of occupational choice and self-determinism. Occupations of resistance are hard work, performed with or without public acknowledgement while fostering perseverance, to cope, feel in control, and against the odds, to be resilient. The suffocating conditions that belie the narratives illustrate the lack of adequate solutions to these issues and calls for a new humanism. These women's narratives allow us to envision authentic public health discourses that recognise grassroots explanations and solutions.Keywords: Coloured women, occupations of resistance, new humanisms, women's suffocation"Our lives are Mobius strips, misery and wonder simultaneously.Our destinies are infinite, and infinitely recurring." 1:136
Contemporary perspectives of occupational therapy in Latin America: Contributions to the glocal dialogue
Authors: Lopes Correia Ricardo , Wertheimer Luciana , Morrison Rodolfo , Silva Carla Regina
Published: February 2025

Background: The contemporary perspectives of occupational therapy in Latin America focus on an epistemic, political, and plural field under construction and in dispute. It is about the notions of knowing and doing designed to appoint the theoretical and methodological aspects that support the reading and intervention of the complex realities.Purpose: This paper explores a glocal dialogue about the production and dissemination of knowledge in occupational therapy in Latin America.Key Issues: The dialogue includes issues and trends in the global scientific and social scenario, without neglecting aspects of different local realities around the world. By focusing on the profession in Latin America, using different perspectives, such as Critical Occupational Therapy; Occupational Therapy and Social Issues; Occupational Therapy and Culture; Territory and Community Occupational Therapy; Southern Occupational Therapies; and Occupational Science in Latin America. It further discusses the relationship between the theoretical perspectives and the coloniality of knowledge in occupational therapy and the contradictions based on neoliberal models in the production and dissemination of knowledge.Conclusion: The hegemonic neoliberal model and the glocalisation theoretical framework appeared to support and circumvent the production of scientific knowledge in occupational therapy, and placed Latin America on the periphery of the global debate.Â Keywords: professional practice of occupational therapy; theoretical framework, theoretical perspective, coloniality of knowledge, critical occupational therapy, occupational science.Â
Cloth Mask with Window as an Alternative to Opaque Mask for Students with Speech, Language, and Hearing Deficits for Infection Risk Mitigation
Authors: Kim Yang-Seon , Deepthi Markonda Patnaik Aruna , Teran Paul , Pandeya Pratik , Kuhlmann Stephanie , Dedeaux Julian , Harris Kari
Published: February 2025

Introduction. Visualization of oral movements and facial expressions is essential for learning, development, and communication, especially among students receiving speech and language services. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of cloth masks with transparent windows as an alternative to opaque masks in mitigating the risk of droplet-transmitted infectious diseases. 
Methods. Researchers measured the filtration efficiency of various medical and non-medical masks, both with and without transparent windows. A testing pipe, fitted with the selected masks, was used to deliver particulate matter (PM) at an airflow velocity mimicking human breathing. Particle size and airflow were measured using three real-time particle monitors positioned upstream and downstream of the masks. Filtration efficiency was then calculated for each of the eight masks.
Results. Mask efficiency varied based on build quality and material. Filtration efficiency for the four face masks with transparent windows ranged from 28.6% to 90%, with the single-layer mask performing the worst. All multi-layer masks with windows achieved filtration efficiencies greater than 70% for all particle sizes tested (1, 2.5, and 10 microns), exceeding that of the opaque cotton masks and approaching the filtration levels of surgical masks.  
Conclusions. Given the high filtration efficiency of cloth masks with transparent windows, the authors conclude that these masks can reduce the transmission of SARS-CoV-2 and other droplet-transmitted infectious diseases while also improving communication for individuals with speech, language, and/or hearing impairments.
Test 21.38 for doi auto
Authors: Kipli
Published: February 2025

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STUDY OF DEGRADATION, BIOCOMPATIBILITY AND CALCIFICATION CHARACTERISTICS OF BIOMATERIALS FOR VASCULAR SURGERY
Authors: Prokudina Ekaterina S. , Antonova Larisa V. , Senokosova Eugenia A. , Krivkina Eugenia O. , Sinitskaya Anna V. , Kolomeets Marina S. , Kochergin Nikita A.
Published: February 2025

Highlights

Silk fibroin is resistant to early degradation, focal calcification, adsorbs albumin, and does not cause pronounced local and systemic inflammation during subcutaneous implantation in rats, which is comparable and even superior in properties to bovine pericardium used in vascular surgery.

 

Aim. To study the hydrolytic degradation of silk fibroin (SF), to evaluate in a comparative aspect the surface adsorption of proteins by matrices from SF and bovine pericardium (BP), calcification of biomaterials, as well as their biocompatibility, the dynamics of biodegradation and systemic inflammation after subcutaneous implantation in rats.

Methods. Matrices from SF were made by electrospinning. The BP flap was used as a comparison material. The loss of SF mass and the change in pH of the incubation solution during its hydrolytic degradation in vitro were studied at periods of 1, 3, 6, and 12 months. The surface adsorption of albumin and fibrinogen by matrices was assessed in vitro. Samples of SF and BP were implanted subcutaneously in rats for periods of 7, 14, 30, and 60 days. After explantation of the matrices, a histological examination of the samples was performed and their calcification was assessed. The levels of interleukins 6 and 8, tumor necrosis factor-α, and monocyte chemotactic protein-1 were studied in the blood serum of rats using the enzyme immunoassay method.

Results. Hydrolytic degradation of SF in vitro resulted in a 6% loss of the matrix mass and was accompanied by a decrease in the pH of the incubation solution to 6.56. Twice as much albumin and six times as much fibrinogen were adsorbed on the SF surface than on the BP surface. Signs of SF biodegradation and a thin connective tissue capsule around the matrix appeared after 30 days of subcutaneous implantation in rats. No pronounced inflammation or calcification of SF were detected. Subcutaneous implantation of BP was accompanied by the formation of a pronounced connective tissue capsule around the sample after 60 days, fraying, and degradation of the material. Localized foci of calcification were not detected at any time point of subcutaneous implantation. The content of proinflammatory cytokines in the blood serum of rats after subcutaneous implantation of SF and BP decreased by day 60 of the study without statistically significant intergroup differences.

Conclusion. Due to its resistance to premature degradation and calcification, increased surface adsorption of albumin, optimal biocompatibility and the absence of pronounced peri-implantation and systemic inflammation, SF is comparable and also has a number of advantages compared to BP used in vascular surgery.
ENDOVASCULAR TRANSCATHETER PULMONARY VALVE REPLACEMENT USING BALLOON-EXPANDABLE DEVICES: A LITERATURE REVIEW
Authors: Pursanov Manolis G.
Published: February 2025

Highlights

The development of new valve devices (SAPIEN, Myval) with a large size range has significantly expanded the possibilities of endovascular treatment of pulmonary valve dysfunction. It became possible to treat pulmonary regurgitation in patients with obstructive right ventricular outflow tract and in patients with transannular patch repair of pulmonary trunk and right ventricular outflow tract enlargement. Based on the analysis of literature data, this work examines modern valve design features, indications, methods and techniques of their implantation, as well as clinical results.

 

Abstract

The paper analyzes the effectiveness and safety of endovascular transcatheter pulmonary valve replacement using balloon-expandable devices. The authors conducted a review of the literature on this topic, studied the available clinical trial data and case reports, and analyzed the main technical aspects of the replacement procedure. The study results helped to assess the effectiveness of the procedure, indications and complications associated with its use. It can be concluded that endovascular transcatheter pulmonary valve replacement using balloon-expandable devices is a promising alternative treatment method for certain patients with heart defects. However, further research is needed to optimize the technique and improve the results of the procedure.
THE ROLE OF THE LEFT ATRIAL APPENDAGE IN THE PATHOGENESIS OF ATRIAL FIBRILLATION, THE EFFECTIVENESS OF ABLATION AND THE DEVELOPMENT OF THROMBOEMBOLIC COMPLICATIONS
Authors: Filippenko Alexey G. , Beloborodov Vladimir V. , Elesin Dmitry A. , Stenin Ilya G. , Shirokova Natalia V. , Baranova Vera V. , Shabanov Vitaly V.
Published: February 2025

Highlights

Left atrial appendage resection is a safe and effective method of excluding the appendage from the systemic circulation, it reduces the number of cerebral ischemic events and increases the effectiveness of atrial fibrillation treatment.

 

Abstract

According to a number of studies, left atrial appendage can be the source of atrial fibrillation. Moreover, in atrial tachyarrhythmias, the appendage is the main source of thrombosis that causes cerebral ischemic events. In an attempt to solve these two issues, specialists developed various devices to exclude the left atrial appendage from the systemic circulation and attempted to ablate the arrhythmogenic area. The aim of this review is to analyze current literature data on the abovementioned issues and our own experience of left atrial appendage resection during thoracoscopic pulmonary vein ablation in patients with persistent atrial fibrillation.
SPEECH AS MAIN COGNITIVE FUNCTION IN CHILDREN WITH CONGENITAL HEART DEFECT: STUDYING THE FORMATION OF THE GRAMMATICAL STRUCTURE
Authors: Rumyantseva Alexandra A. , Kameneva Veronika A. , Potapova Natalia V.
Published: February 2025

Highlights

This review presents the latest available literature data on cognitive and speech characteristics of children with congenital heart defects (CHD), and describes the findings regarding the formation of the grammatical structure of speech in adolescent children with congenital heart defects.

 

Aim. To assess the development of the grammatical structure of speech in adolescents undergoing surgery for congenital heart defects.

Methods. The prospective study of the formation of grammatical structure of speech included 37 adolescent children in the early postoperative period after radical surgical treatment of septal heart defects at the Research Institute for Complex Issues of Cardiovascular Diseases.

Results. The grammatical structure of speech in adolescents aged 13–16 years with septal congenital heart disease after surgical intervention is not sufficiently formed, the greatest difficulties are associated with changing the form of words. The lowest average score was obtained when performing the task of selecting the appropriate preposition in a sentence (average score – 6.70) and when verifying errors in sentences (average score – 4.97). The highest success rate occurred in the tasks consisting of repeating read sentences and completing unfinished sentences (average scores 10.7 and 13.10, respectively).

Conclusion. For adolescents after surgical correction of CHD to be able to freely chose profession and properly socialize, it is necessary to take into account postoperative results with an assessment of clinical and hemodynamic characteristics, and the quality of life, including neurocognitive status.
IMPROVING PRIMARY HEALTH CARE FOR THE COAL INDUSTRY WORKERS (USING THE EXAMPLE OF THE KEMEROVO REGION – KUZBASS)
Authors: Bazdyrev Evgeny D. , Strokolskaya Irina L. , Chasovskikh Elena V. , Zhilyaeva Tatiana P. , Makarov Sergey A. , Tsygankova Daria P. , Agienko Alena S. , Tsenter Iosif M. , Heraskov Vitaliy Yu. , Artamonova Galina V.
Published: February 2025

Highlights

The article presents proposals for improving primary health care for the coal industry workers by creating specialist outpatient clinics, integrating medical organizations at all levels, and incorporating an interdepartmental approach for various ministries and departments to preserve the health of the able-bodied population.

 

Aim. To develop a promising model for organizing health services for coal industry employees in the Kuzbass (using the Kemerovo region – Kuzbass data).

Methods. The object of the study is the organization of primary health care (PHC) for coal industry employees. The subject of the study are the coal industry employees. The analytical method and content analysis of domestic and foreign literature and regulatory documents regarding the organization of primary health care for employees (federal laws of the Russian Federation, regulatory documents of the Ministry of Healthcare, Ministry of Labor and Social Protection of the Russian Federation and Kemerovo region-Kuzbass) were used in this review.

Results. The new model of the organization of PHC for coal industry employees has three levels of interdepartmental interaction. The first level involves new specialized outpatient clinics for the working population that should be created within territorial polyclinics as the main link in the provision of primary health care with the support from enterprises and the occupational pathology service providers of the region. The second level involves the identification of cardiovascular risk factors, diagnosis of cardiovascular diseases, and developing personal preventive measures for patients. The third level of the model is managerial, it aims to develop preventive programs to negate occupational-related adverse factors and implement them at personal, workplace and interdepartmental levels.

Conclusion. The interdepartmental approach involving all participants of the process will be able to achieve the target parameters by improving the PHC model for the working population. The developed model will shorten the wait times, simplify document management, ensuring continuity, monitoring of cardiovascular risk factors, outpatient management of patients with premorbid disorders, and interdepartmental responsibility for outcomes.
THE EFFECTIVENESS OF COGNITIVE TRAINING WITH THE USE OF A COMBINATION OF SIMPLE VISION-MOTOR AND A SET OF ARITHMETIC AND VERBAL TASKS IN EARLY PREVENTION IN PATIENTS AFTER CORONARY ARTERY BYPASS SURGERY
Authors: Trubnikova Olga A. , Tarasova Irina V. , Syrova Irina D. , Temnikova Tatiana B. , Sosnina Anastasia S. , Kupriyanova Darya S. , Barbarash Olga L.
Published: February 2025

Highlights

The effectiveness of cognitive rehabilitation in reducing the incidence of early postoperative cognitive dysfunction in patients who have undergone coronary artery bypass grafting has been demonstrated for the first time by optimizing neurodynamics and memory parameters.

 

Abstract

Aim. To study the effectiveness of cognitive training (CT) using a combination of simple visual-motor reactions with a set of arithmetic and verbal tasks to reduce the frequency of early postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) in patients who underwent coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), and to evaluate the dynamics of the neurovascular unit markers (NVU).

Methods. The prospective randomized study included 81 patients: group with CT (n = 43) and the comparison group without CT (n = 38). All patients underwent general clinical, laboratory and instrumental examinations as well as extended neuropsychological examination and determination of concentrations in the plasma of peripheral blood of NVU markers.

Results. Patients who underwent CT with a combination of vision-motor task and cognitive components in the early post-operative period of CABG showed better psychomotor and executive functions (faster reaction time, a smaller number of errors and missed signals), as well as attention (more processed symbols in the 4th minute of Burdon’s test) compared to patients without training. The patients with CT also had a decrease in the concentration of S100β protein in peripheral blood at 11–12 days after CABG and a tendency towards higher the concentration of BDNF. The comparison group had an increase in the concentration of S100β protein at 1st day after surgery and maintained an elevated level until 11–12 days after CABG.

Conclusion. Thus, the cognitive rehabilitation as the combinations of simple visual-motor reactions with a set of arithmetic and verbal tasks in the early postoperative period of CABG contributed to a decrease in the incidence of early POCD and the maintenance of the cognitive status of patients to a greater extent due to the optimization of the activity of the neurodynamic and short-term memory domains. The decrease in the concentration of S100β protein in the peripheral blood at 11–12 days after CABG and the tendency towards higher concentration of BDNF, observed in patients with CT in comparison to patients without CT, may indicate NVU reorganization.
THE CHANGES IN NEUROPHYSIOLOGICAL PARAMETERS AND NEUROVASCULAR UNIT MARKERS IN CARDIAC SURGERY PATIENTS UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF MULTITASK TRAINING IN A THREE-DIMENSIONAL ENVIRONMENT
Authors: Trubnikova Olga A. , Tarasova Irina V. , Kukhareva Irina N. , Kupriyanova Darya S. , Gorbatovskaya Evgeniya E. , Sosnina Anastasia S. , Temnikova Tatiana B. , Lyapina Irina N.
Published: February 2025

Highlights

For the first time it was demonstrated that changes in the neurophysiological parameters and markers of the neurovascular unit in cardiac surgery patients under the influence of multitask training in a three-dimensional environment result in optimization of the attention and short-term memory domains, the absence of significant dynamics of low-frequency theta activity and a pronounced activation of BDNF synthesis in contrast to patients without training.

 

Abstract

Aim. To study the changes in a complex index of cognitive status in the neurodynamic, attention and short-term memory domains, electroencephalogram (EEG) indices and neurovascular unit (NVU) markers in cardiac surgery patients under the influence of multitask training in a three-dimensional environment.

Methods. The prospective randomized study included 100 patients who were divided into two groups using the envelope method: 47 patients underwent a course of multitask training in a three-dimensional environment and 53 patients received no training. In addition to a standard clinical examination, all patients underwent an extended study of cognitive status, EEG parameters, and NVU markers in peripheral blood.

Results. The complex indicators of attention and short-term memory improved at 11–12 days after CABG compared to preoperative values, but only in patients who underwent training. There were no significant changes in complex indicators of cognitive domains in patients without training. Analysis of the EEG total power revealed that theta 1 rhythm indicators did not statistically differ from preoperative values in patients who underwent training. In the group without training, the increase in theta activity (theta1 and theta2) was significant, as was beta 1–2 activity. The dynamics of changes in the BDNF indicator demonstrated that in patients with training, who had an increase in BDNF concentrations in the peripheral blood on the 1st day after CABG, there was no development of early POCD at 11–12 days after cardiac surgery.

Conclusion. The multitask trainings in a three-dimensional environment contributed to a decrease in the incidence of POCD at the end of the in-hospital stage of CABG due to optimization of the activity of the attention and short-term memory domains. The positive effect of the training was the absence of significant dynamics of low-frequency theta activity and a more pronounced activation of BDNF compared to patients without training, which may indicate a reorganization of brain activity and NVU, but this effect requires confirmation in further studies.
IN-HOSPITAL OUTCOMES OF ALCOHOL SEPTAL ABLATION IN THE TREATMENT OF PATIENTS WITH HYPERTROPHIC SUBAORTIC STENOSIS: RESULTS OF A SINGLE CENTER STUDY
Authors: Ganyukov Vladimir I. , Danilovich Arina I. , Evtushenko Alexey V. , Tarasov Roman S.
Published: February 2025

Highlights

The review is devoted to the analysis of baseline and in-hospital outcomes of patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy after alcohol septal ablation.

The results showed that efficacy and safety of alcohol septal ablation in the treatment of patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is comparable to surgical myectomy of the left ventricular outflow tract.

 

Aim. To analyze cases of patients undergoing alcohol septal ablation (ASA) at the Research Institute, assessing patients' baseline status, perioperative data and in-hospital outcomes, and to prove that efficacy and safety of ASA in the treatment of patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is comparable to surgical myectomy of the left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) taking into account the available literature data.

Materials and Methods. The study included 25 patients with HCM and LVOT obstruction who underwent ASA at the Research Institute for Complex Issues of Cardiovascular Diseases between 2018 and September 2022. The feasibility of the procedure was based on echocardiographic (LVOT obstruction with peak gradient ≥ 50 mm Hg) and angiographic data (absence of coronary bed lesions, and presence of septal branches with diameter of at least 2 mm). The intervention was performed only in case of a “positive” balloon test, i.e. peak gradient decrease by 30% or more compared to baseline during balloon inflation in the target septal branch.

Results. We considered the decrease of LVOT peak gradient by more than 50% compared to baseline to be a success criterion of the procedure. In in-hospital setting there were no endpoints (death, stroke, blockage of left anterior descending artery, permanent pacemaker implantation), and temporary cardiac pacing was required only in 2 cases (8%) due to transient AV blockade. The echocardiography showed that the peak LVOT pressure gradient was 35 [10; 87] mmHg on the 1st day, and 20 [8; 75] mmHg on the 5th day.

Conclusion. The findings and the experience of other clinics proved that ASA can be used in the treatment of patients with HCM and is comparable to surgical myectomy in terms of efficacy. However, patient selection for ASA should be thorough and include clinical and demographic indicators, and echocardiography and angiography data.
INFARCT-REDUCING EFFECT OF DELTORPHIN II IN REPERFUSION OF THE HEART. THE ROLE OF NO-SYNTHASE, GUANYLYLCYCLASE, cGMP, MPT PORE
Authors: Popov Sergey V. , Mukhomedzyanov Alexandr V. , Kurbatov Boris K. , Azev Viacheslav N. , Sufianova Galina Z. , Khlestkina Maria S. , Sarybaev Akpay Sh. , Maslov Leonid N.
Published: February 2025

Highlights

The selective δ2-opioid receptor agonist deltorphin II increases cardiac tolerance to reperfusion by activating guanylyl cyclase, stimulating cGMP synthesis, activating sarcKATP channel, and blocking MPT pore.

 

Aim. To evaluate the role of NO-synthase, guanylyl cyclase, cGMP, MPT pore in the infarct-limiting effect of deltorphin II in the model of ischemia and reperfusion of the rat heart.

Methods. Coronary artery occlusion (45 min) and reperfusion (2 h) were performed in rats anesthetized with chloralose. The selective δ2-opioid receptor agonist deltorphin II was administered intravenously at a dose of 120 µg/kg 5 min before reperfusion. The NO synthase inhibitor L-NAME, the guanylyl cyclase inhibitor ODQ, and the MPT pore blocker atractyloside were administered intravenously 10 min before reperfusion. The cAMP and cGMP levels were measured in myocardial tissue.

Results. Deltorphin II causes a decrease in infarct size by about 50%. L-NAME did not affect the cardioprotective effect of deltorphin. Atractyloside and ODQ completely abolished the infarct-reducing effect of deltorphin. Deltorphin II caused an increase in the cGMP level in the myocardium, but did not affect the cAMP level.

Conclusion. Analysis and generalization of obtained data and the results of previous studies indicate that the infarct-limiting effect of deltorphin II is associated with activation of δ2-opioid receptors located in cardiomyocytes, followed by activation of heme oxygenase-1, an increase in CO production, stimulation of guanylyl cyclase, and activation of protein kinase G. The putative end-effectors are MPT pore and sarcKATP channel. In turn, NO synthase is not involved in signal transduction from δ2-OR to the MPT pore and sarcKATP channel.
TESTING THE EFFECTIVENESS OF AN ALGORITHM FOR SUPPRESSING SELF-OSCILLATIONS DURING INTENSIVE BRAKING OF A VEHICLE
Authors: KLIMOV ALEKSANDR
Published: February 2025

Relevance. When the vehicle slows down, especially on slippery surfaces, it is possible to lose the stability of the movement of the electromechanical drive system, accompanied by the excitation of self-oscillations with high amplitudes. The origin of self-oscillations occurs when the sliding speed increases and the friction force decreases. At the same time, the dynamic load of the drive system increases sharply, which can lead to its failure. As a result, the development of methods for suppressing self-oscillatory phenomena is an urgent task.
The purpose of the study. Using the methods of field experiments, to test the operability and effectiveness of the method of suppressing self-oscillations in the electromechanical wheel drive system during braking.
Materials and methods. The study of the efficiency and effectiveness of the algorithm was carried out using the methods of field experiments
The results of the study. Using the method of field experiments, the efficiency and effectiveness of the algorithm for suppressing self-oscillations during deceleration has been established, which allows reducing the values of maximum amplitudes by 6 times, averaged amplitudes by 3...3.5 times, while excluding changes in the sign of the moment during intense vehicle decelerations.
Conclusion. The self-oscillation suppression algorithm can be recommended for the practical development of vehicle deceleration control systems.