A novel preliminary metabolomic panel for IHD diagnostics and pathogenesis

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) represents one of the main causes of mortality worldwide and nearly a half of it is related to ischemic heart disease (IHD). The article represents a comprehensive study on the diagnostics of IHD through the targeted metabolomic profiling and machine learning techniques. A total of 112 subjects were enrolled in the study, consisting of 76 IHD patients and 36 non-CVD subjects. Metabolomic profiling was conducted, involving the quantitative analysis of 87 endogenous metabolites in plasma. A novel regression method of age-adjustment correction of metabolomics data was developed. We identified 36 significantly changed metabolites which included increased cystathionine and dimethylglycine and the decreased ADMA and arginine. Tryptophan catabolism pathways showed significant alterations with increased levels of serotonin, intermediates of the kynurenine pathway and decreased intermediates of indole pathway. Amino acid profiles indicated elevated branched-chain amino acids and increased amino acid ratios. Short-chain acylcarnitines were reduced, while long-chain acylcarnitines were elevated. Based on these metabolites data, machine learning algorithms: logistic regression, support vector machine, decision trees, random forest, and gradient boosting, were used for IHD diagnostic models. Random forest demonstrated the highest accuracy with an AUC of 0.98. The metabolites Norepinephrine; Xanthurenic acid; Anthranilic acid; Serotonin; C6-DC; C14-OH; C16; C16-OH; GSG; Phenylalanine and Methionine were found to be significant and may serve as a novel preliminary panel for IHD diagnostics. Further studies are needed to confirm these findings.

Mechanism of peroxidasin inactivation in hyperglycemia: Heme damage by reactive oxygen species

Diabetic complications present a serious health problem. Functional damage to proteins due to post-translational modifications by glycoxidation reactions is a known factor contributing to pathology. Extracellular proteins are especially vulnerable to diabetic damage because robust antioxidant defenses are lacking outside the cell. We investigated glucose-induced inactivation of peroxidasin (PXDN), a heme protein catalyzing sulfilimine crosslinking of collagen IV that reinforce the basement membranes (BM). Experiments using physiological diabetic glucose levels were carried out to exclude several potential mechanisms of PXDN inactivation i.e., direct adduction of glucose, reactive carbonyl damage, steric hindrance, and osmotic stress. Further experiments established that PXDN activity was inhibited via heme degradation by reactive oxygen species. Activity of another extracellular heme protein, myeloperoxidase, was unaffected by glucose because its heme was resistant to glucose-induced oxidative degradation. Our findings point to specific mechanisms which may compromise BM structure and stability in diabetes and suggest potential modes of protection.

Identification of brominated proteins in renal extracellular matrix: Potential interactions with peroxidasin

Peroxidasin (PXDN) is an extracellular peroxidase, which generates hypobromous acid to form sulfilimine cross-links within collagen IV networks. We have previously demonstrated that mouse and human renal basement membranes (BM) are enriched in bromine due to PXDN-dependent post-translational bromination of protein tyrosine residues. The goal of the present study was identification of specific brominated sites within renal BM. A comprehensive analysis of brominated proteome of mouse glomerular matrix had been performed using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. We found that out of over 200 identified proteins, only three were detectably brominated, each containing a single distinct brominated tyrosine site i.e., Tyr-1485 in collagen IV α2 chain, Tyr-292 in TINAGL1 and Tyr-664 in nidogen-2. To explain this highly selective bromination, we proposed that these proteins interact with PXDN within the glomerular matrix. Experiments using purified proteins demonstrated that both TINAGL1 and nidogen-2 can compete with PXDN for binding to collagen IV and that TINAGL1 can directly interact with PXDN. We propose that a protein complex, including PXDN, TINAGL1, nidogen-2 and collagen IV, may exist in renal BM.

Collagen IV of basement membranes: III. Chloride pressure is a primordial innovation that drives and maintains the assembly of scaffolds

Collagen IV scaffold is a primordial innovation enabling the assembly of a fundamental architectural unit of epithelial tissues-a basement membrane attached to polarized cells. A family of six α-chains (α1 to α6) coassemble into three distinct protomers that form supramolecular scaffolds, noted as collagen IVα121, collagen IVα345, and collagen IVα121-α556. Chloride ions play a pivotal role in scaffold assembly, based on studies of NC1 hexamers from mammalian tissues. First, Cl- activates a molecular switch within trimeric NC1 domains that initiates protomer oligomerization, forming an NC1 hexamer between adjoining protomers. Second, Cl- stabilizes the hexamer structure. Whether this Cl--dependent mechanism is of fundamental importance in animal evolution is unknown. Here, we developed a simple in vitro method of SDS-PAGE to determine the role of solution Cl- in hexamer stability. Hexamers were characterized from 34 animal species across 15 major phyla, including the basal Cnidarian and Ctenophora phyla. We found that solution Cl- stabilized the quaternary hexamer structure across all phyla except Ctenophora, Ecdysozoa, and Rotifera. Further analysis of hexamers from peroxidasin knockout mice, a model for decreasing hexamer crosslinks, showed that solution Cl- also stabilized the hexamer surface conformation. The presence of sufficient chloride concentration in solution or "chloride pressure" dynamically maintains the native form of the hexamer. Collectively, our findings revealed that chloride pressure on the outside of cells is a primordial innovation that drives and maintains the quaternary and conformational structure of NC1 hexamers of collagen IV scaffolds.

Protective Properties of Spheroidal Taxifolin Form in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats

One of the key factors in the pathogenesis of diabetes and its complications is oxidative stress. To inhibit this process, antioxidants may be helpful. Herein, we focused on the protective properties of taxifolin spheroidal form (TS) in the streptozotocin rat model of diabetes mellitus. After 4 weeks of treatment with TS, the fasting blood glucose level of the diabetic animals decreased by 12% compared with the level right after the injection of streptozotocin. While the feed intake in the untreated diabetic rats increased by 5.3% compared with the healthy group, the TS-treated group showed a pronounced 15.3% decrease. Therapeutic administration of TS has a protective effect on the pancreas and the liver against the cytotoxic action of streptozotocin. The plasma antioxidant capacity of all diabetic groups appeared to be approximately 15% lower than in healthy rats with no significant difference between the TS-treated and untreated diabetic animals. Apparently, this can be attributed to taxifolin and plasma proteins binding. These data demonstrate the potential of TS in antidiabetic therapy.

[The relationship between penile hemodynamic parameters in cavernous rteries and penile rigidity]

INTRODUCTION

Blood flow parameters in cavernous arteries during full-erection phase on Doppler ultrasonography are associated with intracavernosal pressure and, consequently, with penile rigidity.

AIM

To examine the relationship between blood flow parameters in cavernous arteries and the penile rigidity.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 54 healthy men and patients with erectile dysfunction of various degrees of severity, with mean age of 43,0 +/- 2,2 years ranging from 18 to 74 years, were included in the study. Erectile function was examined and 81 Doppler ultrasonography were performed after intracavernosal injection of alprostadil (10 mcg). In full-erection phase, peak systolic velocity (PSV) and systolic acceleration (SA) were measured, as well as resistive index (RI). Mean values were calculated for both cavernous arteries. Penile rigidity was assessed in three ways: clinical evaluation according to I. Goldstein, measurement of surface rigidity and evaluation of longitudinal rigidity.

RESULTS

During Doppler ultrasonography a strong correlation of penile rigidity with RI (0,71-0,85) and SA (0,63-0,69) was found. Indirect assessment of penile rigidity using PSV values was less precise. With RI values close to 1,0, SA is a more reliable method for indirect rigidity assessment.

CONCLUSION

Penile blood flow parameters, RI and SA, allow to evaluate a degree of rigidity and to eliminate subjectivity of the specialist performing the examination, as well as to obtain a range of penile rigidity values.

[Development of a Series of Neutralizing Nanobodies against SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein]

Countering the spread of new respiratory infections and reducing the damage they cause to society requires efficient strategies for rapidly developing of targeted therapeutics, such as monoclonal antibodies. Nanobodies, defined as variable fragments of heavy-chain camelid antibodies, have a set of characteristics that make them particularly convenient for this purpose. The speed at which the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic spread confirmed that the key factor in the development of therapeutics is obtaining highly effective blocking agents as soon as possible, as well as the diversity of epitopes to which these agents bind. We have optimized the selection process of blocking nanobodies from the genetic material of camelids and obtained a panel of nanobody structures with affinity to Spike protein in the lower nanomolar and picomolar ranges and with high binding specificity. The subset of nanobodies that demonstrate the ability to block the interaction between the Spike protein and the cellular ACE2 receptor was selected in experiments in vitro and in vivo. It has been established that the epitopes bound by the nanobodies are located in the RBD domain of the Spike protein and have little overlap. The diversity of binding regions may allow a mixture of nanobodies to retain potential therapeutic efficacy towards new Spike protein variants. Furthermore, the structural features of nanobodies, particularly their compact size and high stability, indicate the possibility of their utilization in the form of aerosols.

[Chemotherapy-associated clinical dynamics of nosogenic reactions in breast and ovarian cancer model]

OBJECTIVE

To study the clinical features, dynamics and factors of nosogenic reactions (NR) development in patients with breast and ovarian cancers at the stage of chemotherapy.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study involved 35 patients who underwent chemotherapy. Clinical-psychopathological and psychometric methods were used to assess the mental state.

RESULTS

We distinguished 3 clinical types of nosogenic reactions: anxiety-phobic (n=14, 40%), anxiety-depression (n=13, 37%) and dissociative reaction (n=8, 23%). It was discovered that nosogenic reactions reflect the dynamics of psychopathological disorders associated with chemotherapy and they are connected with premorbid personality structure of the patients. When compared on the Mini-mult scales, differences were found between patients of the anxiety-phobic and dissociative groups: the score on the Anxiety and Depressive Tendencies scale was significantly higher in the group of patients with anxious-phobic NR (p<0.01), as was the score on the scale «Anxiety fixation and restrictive behavior», which was correlated with such personality traits as sensitivity, self-doubt, low self-esteem, obsessive fears (p<0.05). According to the results of the Spielberger-Khanin anxiety scale, in general, the sample was characterized by an increased level of anxiety compared to the norm: the average scores were 49.7 for trait anxiety and 47.7 for state anxiety.

CONCLUSION

Nosogenic reactions can undergo dynamic changes at various stages of treatment. The proposed typology of nosogenies in a more detailed study can have not only scientific, but also practical significance for determining the personalized tactics of psychiatric care for cancer patients at different stages of the disease.

[Immune mechanisms of complicity of somatic pathology in the pathogenesis of mental disorders]

Understanding the mechanisms of the relationship between the nervous and immune systems within the framework of the concept of the key role of inflammation, taking into account the involved genetic factors in the development of a wide range of combined forms of somatic and mental diseases, is of interest for research as well as for the development of new approaches to early diagnosis and more effective treatment of these diseases. This review analyzes the immune mechanisms of the development of mental disorders in patients with somatic diseases, in particular, the transmission of an inflammatory signal from the periphery to the CNS and the implementation of the influence of inflammatory factors on neurochemical systems that determine the characteristics of mental functioning. Particular attention is paid to the processes underlying the disruption of the blood-brain barrier caused by peripheral inflammation. Modulation of neurotransmission, changes in neuroplasticity, changes in regional activity of the brain in areas associated with the functions of threat recognition, cognitive processes and memory function, the effect of cytokines on the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal system are considered as mechanisms of action of inflammatory factors in the brain. The need to take into account variations in the genes of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which may be the cause of increased genetic vulnerability associated with the risk mental disorders in patients suffering from a certain somatic disease, is emphasized.

[Psychopharmacotherapy of mental disorders in hematological patients: security concerns]

OBJECTIVE

Evaluation of the safety of psychopharmacotherapy (PFT) of mental disorders in modern protocols for the treatment of patients with blood disorders.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The data of medical records of 552 patients with blood disorders who received PFT during treatment at the clinic of the National Medical Research Center for Hematology were analyzed. Any adverse events recorded while taking PFT were taken into account. Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics, frequency analysis, and assessment (Student's t-test) of changes in blood parameters (before and after taking psychotropic drugs).

RESULTS

Signs of hematotoxicity were found only in 7.1% (n=37) patients, in all cases while taking benzodiazepines (n=12) in combination with hematotoxic drugs for the treatment of blood disorders. Other significant adverse events (which caused premature discontinuation or dose reduction) were detected in 4.8% (n=25) cases, of which 9 were associated with the appointment of anxiolytics (hydroxyzine, zopiclone), 11 with antidepressants (clomipramine, amitriptyline, duloxetine, trazodone, ademethionine) and 5 with antipsychotics (risperidone, alimemazine, haloperidol).

CONCLUSION

Most psychotropic drugs are effective in relation to psychopathological disorders that develop in hematological patients and are safe when used at minimum/average therapeutic doses within the daily dosage ranges established by the official instructions for use.

Gut microbiota alterations in patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis

Currently, the issue of the relationship between gut microbiota and juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is still relevant. The study was aimed to assess alterations in the gut microbiota taxonomic composition and estimate the relationship between these alterations and cortisol, melatonin, and TNFα at the genus level in patients with JIA. The comparative cross-sectional study involved 65 patients with JIA (index group) and 60 healthy children (control group). The gut microbiota taxonomic composition and plasma levels of cortisol, melatonin, and TNFα were assessed. The following alterations of the gut microbiota taxonomic composition were found in patients with JIA: the significantly decreased abundance of Anaerostipes (р = 0.042), Lachnospira (р = 0.034), Roseburia (р = 0.002), Coprococcus (р = 0.014), Dialister (р = 0.003) and the increase in the abundance of Ruminococcus (р = 0.012). There were significant correlations of cortisol levels with the abundance of Lachnospira (r = –0.44; p = 0.001), melatonin concentrations and the abundance of Coprococcus (r = –0.48; p = 0.023), the levels of TNFα and the abundance of Ruminococcus (r = 0.52; p = 0.001). The association of the Lachnospira, Roseburia, and Ruminococcus abundance with the higher DAS28 scores was discovered (r = –0.57; p = 0.002; r = –0.44; p = 0.002; r = 0.54; p = 0.032, respectively). The findings provide additional information about the features of gut microbiota alterations and their correlation with some hormone and inflammatory biomarkers associated with JIA, that could provide the basis for further research and possibly for new approaches to treatment of this disorder.

Mitochondrial Fus1/Tusc2 and cellular Ca2+ homeostasis: tumor suppressor, anti-inflammatory and anti-aging implications

FUS1/TUSC2 (FUSion1/TUmor Suppressor Candidate 2) is a tumor suppressor gene (TSG) originally described as a member of the TSG cluster from human 3p21.3 chromosomal region frequently deleted in lung cancer. Its role as a TSG in lung, breast, bone, and other cancers was demonstrated by several groups, but molecular mechanisms of its activities are starting to unveil lately. They suggest that Fus1-dependent mechanisms are relevant in etiologies of diseases beyond cancer, such as chronic inflammation, bacterial and viral infections, premature aging, and geriatric diseases. Here, we revisit the discovery of FUS1 gene in the context of tumor initiation and progression, and review 20 years of research into FUS1 functions and its molecular, structural, and biological aspects that have led to its use in clinical trials and gene therapy. We present a data-driven view on how interactions of Fus1 with the mitochondrial Ca2+ (mitoCa2+) transport machinery maintain cellular Ca2+ homeostasis and control cell apoptosis and senescence. This Fus1-mediated cellular homeostasis is at the crux of tumor suppressor, anti-inflammatory and anti-aging activities.

Low-Molecular-Weight Perorally Active Nerve Growth Factor Mimetic Reduces Manifestations of Diabetic Neuropathy in Wistar Rats

A low-molecular-weight nerve growth factor mimetic, compound GK-2 (bis-(N-monosuccinyl- L-glutamyl-L-lysine)hexamethylenediamide) that previously demonstrated antidiabetic activity in rats with streptozotocin-induced type 2 diabetes mellitus was studied on the model of diabetic neuropathy. It was found that in 8 weeks after diabetes mellitus development, untreated diabetic rats demonstrated impaired tactile sensitivity in von Frey test, while GK-2 therapy (7.5 mg/kg orally for 28 days) restored this parameter. The decrease of tactile sensitivity in diabetic neuropathy closely correlated with the severity of hyperglycemia (r=0.76). Our findings are consistent with the concept on the role of glucose toxicity and nerve growth factor deficiency in the pathogenesis of diabetic neuropathy and attest to feasibility of further studies of nerve growth factor mimetic GK-2 as a potential treatment for diabetes and diabetic neuropathy.

[The newer antipsychotic cariprazine (reagila): perspectives for use in different stages of schizophrenia therapy]

Cariprazine is a newer 3rd generation antipsychotic acting as partial agonist for dopamine receptors with unique higher affinity for D3 than D2 receptors. This review article summarizes key data from preclinical and clinical studies of cariprazine including pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, clinical efficacy and safety/acceptability in acute short-term and long-term maintenance and relapse prevention therapy in patients with schizophrenia. Efficacy and safety of cariprazine in patients schizophrenia with predominantly negative symptoms resistant to previous antipsychotic therapy is discussed as well.

Effects of rosuvastatin and metformin on resistin levels in subcutaneous, epicardial and perivascular adipose tissues of patients with ischemic heart disease

 

The aim of the study was to assess the level of resistin in local fat depots and the possibility of correcting the level of resistin using rosuvastatin and metformin.

Methods

This study was performed at the Federal State Budgetary Institution's Research Institute for Complex Issues of Cardiovascular Diseases. The study included 84 patients with ischemic heart disease (IHD), who were planned to undergo coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). The average age of the patients was 63.8 (50.1; 68.6) years. Patients were included in the study after they provided written informed consent. In order to study the combined effect of atorvastatin and metformin on the functional activity of adipocytes in the SAT, EAT, and PVAT, isolated adipocytes were cultured for 24 hours with the addition of drugs at different concentrations: 1 μmol/L atorvastatin (SigmaAldrich, China) + 1 mmol/L metformin (USP, Norway); 5 μmol/L atorvastatin + 10 mmol/L metformin. Then, the expression of mRNA resistin genes (RSTN) was assessed. Statistical analysis was performed using GraphPad Prism 6 (GraphPad Software), nonparametric tests, and multivariate statistics methods.

Results

The level of RSTN expression in the EAT was the highest compared to the SAT (2.6 times, p=0.0014) and the PVAT (1.9 times, p=0.0017). The level of secretion of the resistin in the culture medium of adipocytes corresponded to the expression of the resistin gene. Cultivation of adipocytes with rosuvastatin showed that low concentrations (1 μmol/L) did not have a significant effect on the functional activity of adipocytes. At the same time, 5 μmol/L rosuvastatin reduced the level of RSTN expression and protein secretion, but only in subcutaneous adipocytes in compared with control.

Culturing adipocytes with metformin at a concentration of 10 mmol/L reduced the level of RSTN expression and protein secretion in the culture medium in all three adipose tissues. At the same time, 1 mmol/L metformin did not have a significant effect. The use of a combination of the drugs rosuvastatin and metformin at various concentrations led to a decrease in the RSTN expression in the SAT, EAT, and PVAT, but only when 5 μmol/L rosuvastatin + 10 mmol/L metformin were used.

Conclusion

Thus, the level of resistin in adipocytes of adipose tissue of patients with IHD is influenced only by rosuvastatin at a concentration of 5 μmol/L and only on adipocytes of adipose tissue, reducing the level of RSTN expression and protein secretion in the culture medium. Metformin was more effective than rosuvastatin and at high concentrations (10 mmol/L) reduced RSTN expression and protein secretion in the culture medium regardless of the localization of adipocytes. The combined use of high concentrations of rosuvastatin (5 μmol/L) and metformin (10 mmol/L) of patients with IHD had a comparable effect with metformin at a concentration of 10 mmol/L.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.

Relationship of the degree of coronary lesion and the expression of adipocytokines of local fat depots in patients with coronary artery disease

Aims

To reveal the peculiarities of the relationship between of the coronary lesion with the levels of expression of adiponectin, leptin and IL-6 by subcutaneous, epicardial and perivascular adipocytes in patients with coronary artery disease.

Materials and methods

The study included 90 patients with CAD who signed voluntary informed consent. During elective surgery (coronary artery bypass grafting, CABG), samples of subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT), EAT and PVAT were obtained. Then the patients were divided, depending on the degree of CA, as determined into 3 groups by the SYNTAX Score: moderate (≤22, Group 1), severe (23–31, Group 2), and extremely severe (≥32, Group 3). The expression of adiponectin, leptin and IL-6 was determined by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) using TaqManTM Gene Expression Assays (Applied Biosystems, USA) in the ViiA 7 Real-Time PCR System (Applied Biosystems, USA). Statistical analysis was performed using Statistica 9.0.

Results

Evaluation of the studied parameters depending on the degree of coronary lesion according to SYNTAX Score showed that patients with moderate lesion were characterized by the highest level of adiponectin expression in all types of adipose tissue (AT). In severe coronary lesion, an increase in the level of leptin mRNA was observed in the SAT and EAT, and in extremely severe cases, in the PVAT. There was also an increase in the expression of IL-6 in the EAT and PVAT in severe and extremely severe coronary lesions. Using logistic regression analysis it was found that the most significant predictors of severe/extremely severe coronary lesion in CAD are: the expression of adiponectin in the PVAT (odds ratio (OR) 0.44, 95% confidence interval (CI 0.178–0.79, p=0.031) and age (OR=1.4, 95% CI 1.072–1.839, p=0.014) The pathogenetic significance of these markers was confirmed by discriminant analysis, which showed the significance of the expression of adiponectin and IL-6 in the PVAT, leptin in all studied local fat depots to determine the probability of developing severe/extremely severe coronary lesions.

Conclusions

The data obtained indicate a close relationship between the degree of coronary lesion, assessed by the SYNTAX Score, and the expression levels of adipocytokines in local fat depots in patients with CAD. Based on this, it can be concluded that the studied markers are capable of reflecting the degree of coronary artery disease in patients with CAD. The most significant predictors of severe/extremely severe coronary artery disease in CAD is the expression of adiponectin in the PVAT and age.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.

Studying the influence of Solcoseryl drug and vitamin C on the inflammatory reaction and proliferation of fibroblastic cells in the filed of polypropylene endoprosthesis implantation

Introduction: Applying a coating on hernia endoprosthesis prevents recurrent anterior abdominal wall hernias, reduces inflammatory response and stimulates reparative processes in the area of its implantation. The aim of investigation was to study the effect of Solcoseryl and Vitamin C in a collagen-stimulating coating of hernioendoprosthesis on a morphological picture in anterior abdominal wall plastic surgery.

Materials and methods: The study was performed on 180 laboratory mice divided into three groups of 60 animals each: the first group animals were implanted with polypropylene endoprostheses without a collagen-stimulating coating, the second group animals – polypropylene endoprostheses with a collagen-stimulating coating with Vitamin C, and the third group animals – polypropylene endoprostheses with a collagen-stimulating coating with Solcoseryl. The laboratory animals were withdrawn from the experiment on the 10th, 30th, 60th, and 90th days. The excised sections of the abdominal wall were stained with G+E to determine the nature of inflammation and the number of cell elements.

Results and discussion: When using endoprostheses with a collagen-stimulating coating, the stages of inflammatory process proceeded more quickly, which was confirmed by a reliable (р ≤ 0.05) decrease in the number of neutrophils, macrophages and lymphocytes at all stages of the study. By the 90th day of the experiment, the number of fibroblasts in the control group was by 22.64% less than in the study groups with a coating.

Conclusion: A cytological and histological analysis in the control group determined a consistent decrease in an exudative phase of inflammatory reaction. When using endoprosthesis with coatings, its acceleration and lower intensity was noted throughout the study. In the group with Solcoseryl, the formation of a dense connective capsule around the endoprosthesis indicates its quality and better adaptation of the endoprosthesis in body tissues.

[Depression therapy for somatic diseases]

A review of works devoted to the problem of psychopharmacotherapy of depression in general medical practice is presented. The issues of its comorbidity with somatic and neurological diseases, as well as multimorbidity are discussed. Both direct and side-effects of antidepressants, which are important for effective therapy of not only affective disorders proper, but also the symptoms of the leading pathology, are considered in detail for individual organs and systems. The analysis of the preferred pharmacological classes of antidepressants, which are drugs of first choice, taking into account the somatic condition of the patient, is carried out, and drugs are indicated, the appointment of which is undesirable for the treatment of a patient with a certain disease. The presented results are aimed both at increasing the efficiency of therapy for patients with general medical level of health care, and at increasing the safety of treatment of psychiatric patients with concomitant somatic disorders.

[Coronary artery bypass grafting in myocardial infarction and unstable angina pectoris: in-hospital outcomes. Part 2]

AIM

To assess in-hospital outcomes of coronary artery bypass grafting in patients with acute coronary syndrome, depending on the presence or absence of myocardial infarction.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Over the period from 2017 to 2018 within the framework of a single-centre register, the study enrolled a total of 166 consecutive patients admitted with non-ST segment elevation acute coronary syndrome and subjected to coronary artery bypass grafting. Depending on the outcome of acute coronary syndrome, the patients were divided into 2 groups: Group One included 98 (59%) patients with unstable angina pectoris and Group Two comprised 68 (41%) patients with myocardial infarction, who underwent surgery at an average of 16 (11; 20) days after manifestation of the clinical signs of myocardial infarction. The endpoints of the study were major adverse cardiovascular events during the in-hospital period: death, myocardial infarction, acute cerebral circulation impairment/transitory ischaemic attack, repeat revascularization, septic complications, multiple organ failure syndrome, wound infectious complications, requirement for repeated surgical debridement, remediastinotomy due to haemorrhage, the frequency of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and renal replacement therapy.

RESULTS

The mortality rate in the compared groups was similar: 3% (n=3) and 3% (n=2), respectively. Perioperative myocardial infarction occurred in 1 (1%) patient of the first group, with no cases of this complication observed in the second group. The frequency of reoperations due to haemorrhage in the early postoperative period in the group of unstable angina pectoris amounted to 3% (n=3) and was associated with administration of dual antithrombotic therapy, with no cases of this complication in the group of myocardial infarction. Wound complication in the second group were observed in 7.6% (n=5) and in the first group in 4% (n=4) (p=0.33). The differences turned out to be statistically insignificant for such postoperative complications as multiple organ failure syndrome, requirement for repeated surgical debridement, renal replacement therapy, and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. The residual SYNTAX Score in the group of myocardial infarction amounted to 2.3±2.8, whereas in the group of unstable angina pectoris to 2.3±3, thus suggesting complete revascularization in the total sample of patients with acute coronary syndrome. The average length of hospital stay (including the postoperative period) in the first group amounted to 26.3±6.6 days and in the second group to 27.4±7.2 days (p=0.53). The postoperative bed-day in the group with unstable angina pectoris was 12.6±3.2 and in the myocardial infarction group - 14.9±5.3 (p=0.06).

CONCLUSION

The obtained in-hospital outcomes suggest that coronary artery bypass grafting may be an efficient and safe method of complete revascularization for patients with non-ST-elevation acute coronary syndrome, including that resulting in myocardial infarction, performed averagely on day 16 (11; 20) after the onset of clinical manifestations of myocardial infarction.

[Asthenic disorders in schizophrenia (schizoasthenia) on the model of hypochondriac schizophrenia]

OBJECTIVE

To determine the structure and mechanisms of interaction of asthenic disorders with negative and positive psychopathological symptoms in hypochondriac schizophrenia.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study included male and female patients, aged 17-69 years, with a diagnosis of hypochondriac schizophrenia (F20.80 according to ICD-10) and asthenia symptoms. The main research method was clinical, which was supplemented by pathopsychological examination and the use of psychometric scales (PANSS, SANS, MFI-20,VAS asthenia).

RESULTS AND CONCLUSION

Asthenia in case of hypochondriac schizophrenia (schizoasthenia) integrates two unrelated phenomena: «weakness» and «exhaustion» (intolerance to stress), and also acts within the framework of three psychopathological syndromes: neurotic, senestopathic/hypochondriac and overvalued hypochondria. Asthenia with hypochondriac schizophrenia is a predictor of an unfavorable social and clinical prognosis. Integrating into the structure of the clinical manifestations of hypochondriac schizophrenia, asthenia forms close relationships with positive and negative disorders of the type of «general syndromes», but remains outside the categories of both positive and negative symptoms of the disease, thus forming a separate «dimension» in the psychopathological space of schizophrenia.

[Cariprazine in schizophrenia with predominantly negative symptoms: early effects of therapy (observational study)]

BACKGROUND

Currently available antipsychotics have limited efficacy in the treatment of negative symptoms in schizophrenia and new drugs with wider spectrums of clinical efficacy are very desirable. Cariprazine is a newer antipsychotic acting as dopamine D3- and in lesser extent D2-receptor partial agonist found to be effective in the treatment of negative symptoms in schizophrenia.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate cariprazine early effects at the first stage of therapy of schizophrenia patients with predominantly negative symptoms.

DESIGN AND PATIENTS

Open-lable observational assessment of 60 adult schizophrenia patients (F20 on ICD-10, 49% males) with predominantly negative symptoms (PANSS-FSNS ≥15, PANSS-FSPS <19) treated by cariprazine (starting daily dose 1.5 mg followed by upward titration by 1.5 mg weekly up to 6 mg if needed) were assessed with PANSS, CAINS, CDSS and SAS scales at baseline and on week 1, 2, and 4. Efficacy criteria were.

RESULTS

Most patients (75%) improved during 28 days of cariprazine treatment. Negative symptoms mean total scores on PANSS-NS and CAINS significantly (p<0.05) reduced by 4.3 and 4.9 respectively at the end of assessment (day 28). Cariprazine tolerability was good, only 4 patients discontinued because of TEAEs (akathisia, insomnia).

CONCLUSIONS

The study results preliminary suggest initial effect of cariprazine on negative symptoms at least in some schizophrenia patients with predominantly negative symptoms starting from 1-2 weeks of treatment and available for observation and assessment and could be useful for determination of early clinical predictors for efficacy. Considering limitations of observational open-lable design with no control groups these data need to be confirmed.

[Coronary artery bypass grafting in myocardial infarction and unstable angina pectoris: analysis of perioperative factors. Part 1]

AIM

The purpose of this study was to assess the perioperative clinical, demographic and anatomo-angiographic factors in patients presenting with non-ST-segment elevation acute coronary syndrome and being candidates for coronary artery bypass grafting, depending on the presence or absence of myocardial infarction.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Over the period from 2017 to 2018 within the framework of a single-centre register, the study enrolled a total of 166 consecutive patients admitted with non-ST segment elevation acute coronary syndrome and recommended by the cardiosurgical team to undergo coronary artery bypass grafting. Depending on the outcome of acute coronary syndrome, the patients were divided into 2 groups: Group One included 98 (59%) patients with unstable angina pectoris and Group Two comprised 68 (41%) patients with myocardial infarction. A lethal outcome occurred in 2 (3%) Group Two patients prior to revascularization, hence they were not included into the analysis comparing the results of surgery in both groups, however these data were taken into consideration, being analysed separately.

RESULTS

The group of patients with myocardial infarction appeared to include significantly more female patients (20 (30.3%) versus 15 (15.3%) in the group of patients with unstable angina pectoris, p=0.02). However, by such parameters as the average age, left ventricular ejection fraction, and the frequency of diabetes mellitus the compared groups did not differ. The group with myocardial infarction was characterised by a severe clinico-angiographic status: more frequently encountered was stage II obesity (3%, n=3 in the first group and 10.6% n=7 in the second group, p=0.04). On the whole, the majority of patients were at intermediate and high risk (44.7% in the group with unstable angina pectoris versus 81.8% in the group of myocardial infarction, p<0.05). Group Two patients significantly more often presented with three-vessel lesions of the coronary bed (40 (40.8%) and 39 (59%), p=0.02). The level of low-density lipoproteins appeared to be significantly higher in patients with myocardial infarction (3.3±1 mmol/l and 2.9±0.9, p=0.04). In the same group more often encountered were peripheral artery lesions (28 (21%) and 12 (11.3%), p=0.04). In its turn, in the group of unstable angina pectoris, there were significantly more patients having received dual antithrombotic therapy prior to surgery (44 (44.9%) and 17 (25%), p=0.01). Approximately half of the patients in the first group (53%, n=52) had a history of myocardial infarction (p=0.001).

CONCLUSION

The obtained findings suggested that amongst the patients with non-ST-elevation acute coronary syndrome resulting in myocardial infarction prevailing were those of female gender, with obesity, as a consequence, hyperholesterolaemia and triple-vessel disease. At the same time, postinfarction cardiosclerosis, renal dysfunction, and haemodynamically significant lesions of lower-extremity arteries were encountered in the group of unstable angina pectoris.

Analysis of Cytoprotective Properties of Afobazole in Streptozotocin Model of Diabetes

Previous in vitro and in vivo studies revealed the neuroprotective effect of anxiolytic Afobazole. Based on similarities in the regulation of functions of neurons and β cells, we studied the effect of Afobazole on streptozotocin (STZ) model of type 2 diabetes in Wistar rats. Immunohistochemical analysis showed that the decrease in the number of β cells and a violation of their morphological structure caused by STZ were significantly alleviated by Afobazole administration (10 mg/kg orally for 28 days) to diabetic animals. A correlation between morphometric data and blood glucose level was revealed. A possible role of σ1-receptors in the cytoprotective effects of Afobazole in respect to pancreatic β cells is discussed.

Peroxidasin-mediated bromine enrichment of basement membranes

Bromine and peroxidasin (an extracellular peroxidase) are essential for generating sulfilimine cross-links between a methionine and a hydroxylysine within collagen IV, a basement membrane protein. The sulfilimine cross-links increase the structural integrity of basement membranes. The formation of sulfilimine cross-links depends on the ability of peroxidasin to use bromide and hydrogen peroxide substrates to produce hypobromous acid (HOBr). Once a sulfilimine cross-link is created, bromide is released into the extracellular space and becomes available for reutilization. Whether the HOBr generated by peroxidasin is used very selectively for creating sulfilimine cross-links or whether it also causes oxidative damage to bystander molecules (e.g., generating bromotyrosine residues in basement membrane proteins) is unclear. To examine this issue, we used nanoscale secondary ion mass spectrometry (NanoSIMS) imaging to define the distribution of bromine in mammalian tissues. We observed striking enrichment of bromine (79Br, 81Br) in basement membranes of normal human and mouse kidneys. In peroxidasin knockout mice, bromine enrichment of basement membranes of kidneys was reduced by ∼85%. Proteomic studies revealed bromination of tyrosine-1485 in the NC1 domain of α2 collagen IV from kidneys of wild-type mice; the same tyrosine was brominated in collagen IV from human kidney. Bromination of tyrosine-1485 was reduced by >90% in kidneys of peroxidasin knockout mice. Thus, in addition to promoting sulfilimine cross-links in collagen IV, peroxidasin can also brominate a bystander tyrosine. Also, the fact that bromine enrichment is largely confined to basement membranes implies that peroxidasin activity is largely restricted to basement membranes in mammalian tissues.

Design and Characterization of a Sharp GaAs/Zn(Mn)Se Heterovalent Interface: A Sub-Nanometer Scale View

The distribution of magnetic impurities (Mn) across a GaAs/Zn(Mn)Se heterovalent interface is investigated combining three experimental techniques: Cross-Section Scanning Tunnel Microscopy (X-STM), Atom Probe Tomography (APT), and Secondary Ions Mass Spectroscopy (SIMS). This unique combination allowed us to probe the Mn distribution with excellent sensitivity and sub-nanometer resolution. Our results show that the diffusion of Mn impurities in GaAs is strongly suppressed; conversely, Mn atoms are subject to a substantial redistribution in the ZnSe layer, which is affected by the growth conditions and the presence of an annealing step. These results show that it is possible to fabricate a sharp interface between a magnetic semiconductor (Zn(Mn)Se) and high quality GaAs, with low dopant concentration and good optical properties.

[Peculiarities of the development of acute coronary syndrome in patients after coronary artery bypass grafting]

AIM

The purpose of the study was to analyse clinical peculiarities of the development of acute coronary syndrome in patients after coronary artery bypass grafting procedures and to evaluate the in-hospital results of treatment PATIENTS AND METHODS: Within the frameworks of a single-centre register over the period from 2006 to 2016 the study included 81 patients (with a total of more than 5000 coronary artery bypass grafting operations performed during this period). We examined the preoperative, intraoperative, and in-hospital periods, as well as the patients' status at the moment of the development of the clinical course of acute coronary syndrome, its structure and terms of manifestation, the dynamics of the coronary bed condition, also carrying out the analysis of treatment strategies and the in-hospital outcomes thereof.

RESULTS

The development of acute coronary syndrome after coronary artery bypass grafting procedures was revealed in patients with a mean age of 58 (52; 63) years, with a history of postinfarction cardiosclerosis (70.37%), arterial hypertension (92.59%), dyslipidemia (51.83%), obesity (77.78%) and a multiple-vessel lesion of the coronary bed (67.90%) of intermediate risk according to the SYNTAX score estimated as an average of 26 (22; 32) points. In the structure of acute coronary syndrome having developed in patients with previously endured coronary artery bypass grafting operations, prevailing was its form of non-ST-segment elevation (87.65%), predominantly of a low risk (61.73%) which manifested itself averagely 24 (12; 35) months after the operation. The main factor of the development of acute coronary syndrome was progression of atherosclerosis (60.49%). The dominating strategy of treatment was medicamentous therapy (55.56%). The in-hospital mortality rate amounted to 2.47%. In the dynamics of the clinical status of the patients prior to coronary artery bypass grafting by the moment of the manifestation of acute cardiac ischaemia there took place a significant decrease in the left ventricular ejection fraction (p=0.01) and progression of atherosclerosis to the multifocal status (p=0.004).

CONCLUSION

Patients with acute coronary syndrome, having previously endured coronary artery bypass grafting procedures appear to belong to a special cohort presenting with a series of clinical peculiarities and despite satisfactory in-hospital results do require special attention, with the development of appropriate algorithms for risk stratification and optimal therapeutic decision-making.

[The use of the concentrate of nucleus containing cells of umbilical cord blood for treatment of asthenic disorders (schizoasthenia) in patients with schizophrenia with negative symptoms]

AIM

To assess the safety and efficacy of umbilical cord blood (UCB) cells in the treatment of schizoasthenia and comorbid negative disorders.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study was conducted in men (n=15) with remission of schizophrenia with a predominance of asthenic disorders (ICD-10 items F20.6 and F21.5). Patients received intravenous infusions of UCB cells at the average dose of 250 mln viable cells per infusion (4 injections at 2 week intervals). The efficacy and safety were assessed using the Positive and Negative Symptoms of Schizophrenia (PANSS), the General Clinical Impression Scale (CGI), Asthenia Scale MFI-20 3, the MATRIX Consensus Cognitive Battery (MCCB), the Clinical evaluation of adverse events (side effects).

RESULTS AND CONCLUSION

The infusions of UCB cells have a positive effect on asthenic disorders, increase the level of general activity and minimize cognitive impairments. The authors assume that UCB cells potentiate the activity of typical and atypical antipsychotics.

Strongly Confined Excitons in GaN/AlN Nanostructures with Atomically Thin GaN Layers for Efficient Light Emission in Deep-Ultraviolet

Fascinating optical properties governed by extremely confined excitons have been so far observed in 2D crystals like monolayers of transition metal dichalcogenides. These materials, however, are limited for production by epitaxial methods. Besides, they are not suitable for the development of optoelectronics for the challenging deep-ultraviolet spectral range. Here, we present a single monolayer of GaN in AlN as a heterostructure fabricated by molecular beam epitaxy, which provides extreme 2D confinement of excitons, being ideally suited for light generation in the deep-ultraviolet. Optical studies in the samples, supplemented by a group-theory analysis and first-principle calculations, make evident a giant enhancement of the splitting between the dark and bright excitons due to short-range electron-hole exchange interaction that is a fingerprint of the strongly confined excitons. The practical significance of our results is in the observation of the internal quantum yield of the room-temperature excitonic emission as high as ∼75% at 235 nm.

Collagen IV Exploits a Cl- Step Gradient for Scaffold Assembly

Collagen molecules are crucial extracellular players in animal tissue development and in functions ranging from ultrafiltration to organism locomotion. Among the 28 types of collagen found in human, type IV collagen stands out as a primordial type found in all species of the animal kingdom. Collagen IV forms smart scaffolds for basement membranes, sheet-like acellular structures that isolate, coordinate, and direct cells during morphogenesis. Collagen IV is also involved in multiple functions in developed tissues. As part of the basement membrane, collagen IV scaffolds provide mechanical strength, spatially tether extracellular macromolecules and directly signal to cells via receptor binding sites. Proper assembly and structure of the scaffolds are critical for development and function of multiple types of basement membranes. Within last 5 years it was established that Cl^- concentration is a key factor for initiating collagen IV scaffold assembly. The biological role of Cl^- in multiple physiological processes and detailed mechanisms for its signaling and structural impacts are well established. Cl^- gradients are generated across the plasma and intracellular organelle membranes. As collagen IV molecules are secreted outside the cell, they experience a switch from low to high Cl^- concentration. This transition works as a trigger for collagen IV scaffold assembly. Within the scaffold, collagen IV remains to be a Cl^- sensor as its structural integrity continues to depend on Cl^- concentration. Here, we review recent findings and set future directions for studies on the role of Cl^- in type IV collagen assembly, function, and disease.

[Long-term outcomes of coronary artery bypass surgery in young patients]

OBJECTIVE

To analyze long-term outcomes of CABG in young patients, incidence and structure of adverse cardiovascular events depending on patients' age.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

There were 175 young patients (up to 44 years old in accordance with WHO classification) who underwent CABG for the period from 2006 to 2016. The control group included 175 patients aged 45 years and older who were randomly selected among patients operated in the same period. Overall long-term follow-up period was 81.9±15.75 months (≈ 6.8 years). Data on long-term survival and adverse cardiovascular events were available in 86.3% of patients in general sample and 72.6% of young patients.

RESULTS

Young patients undergoing CABG were usually characterized by the absence of severe concomitant diseases, moderate coronary atherosclerosis by SYNTAX Score scale, high percentage of left ventricular aneurysm and previous PCI. Incidence and structure of in-hospital and long-term adverse cardiovascular events in young and older patients confirmed satisfactory results of CABG regardless age.

[Features of hemodynamics in patients with a local form of odontogenic purulent infection and chronic diseases of the cardiovascular system]

The aim of the study was to study hemodynamic parameters in patients with a local form of odontogenic infection (LFOI) in the presence of diseases of the cardiovascular system and without background pathology. 5 groups were formed: group 1 - patients with LFOI without background diseases (49 patients, mean age 29 [25; 37] years); group 2 - healthy individuals (25 people, mean age 24.7±0.76 years); group 3 - patients with LFOI and diseases of the cardiovascular system (34 patients, mean age 51.2±2.37 years); group 4 - patients without LFOI with diseases of the cardiovascular system (25 patients, mean age - 46 [43; 50] years); group of patients with LFOI without background pathology, comparable in age and sex composition with group 3 (group 5, 28 patients, mean age 48.9±2.30 years). The presence of LFOI in the patient in the absence of background pathology determines the heart rate (78 [72; 82] in 1 min) in comparison with the control group of healthy individuals (68.0±0.85 in 1 min), the values of minute volume of blood circulation (5.25±0.14 l/min) and systolic index (2.87 [2.56; 3.35]) l·m^-2·min^-1. The development of LFOI in patient with hypertension/ischemic heart disease was not associated with increased blood circulation features, such as the increase in resting heart rate values, the values of minute volume of blood circulation and systolic index.

[Preventative repair of postoperative ventral hernia considering the markers of connective tissue dysplasia]

OBJECTIVE

To define the indication for preventive mesh implantation in patients scheduled for laparotomy.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

There were 108 patients divided into the control (52 patients without anterior abdominal wall hernia) and the main (56 patients with ventral hernia) groups.

RESULTS

Predominance of collagen type III over type I was observed in patients older 60 years in the main group. The maximum ratio of collagen types I and III was 1.4 in the main group. The minimum number of inter-fiber spaces (n=5) was noted in patients aged 30-40 years. The maximum density of connective tissue was 250 pixels per inch.

CONCLUSION

Analysis of connective tissue structures revealed some important age-related features and markers of connective tissue dysplasia in the main group. An indication for preventive mesh implantation in patients scheduled for laparotomy was determined.

Combination of ribosome and phage display for fast selection of high affinity VHH antibody fragments

Selection of antibodies using phage display involves the preliminary cloning of the repertoire of sequences encoding antigen-binding domains into phagemid, which is considered the bottleneck of the method, limiting the resulting diversity of libraries and leading to the loss of poorly represented variants before the start of the selection procedure. Selection in cell-free conditions using a ribosomal display is devoid from this drawback, however is highly sensitive to PCR artifacts and the RNase contamination. The aim of the study was to test the efficiency of a combination of both methods, including pre-selection in a cell-free system to enrich the source library, followed by cloning and final selection using phage display. This approach may eliminate the shortcomings of each method and increase the efficiency of selection. For selection, alpaca VHH antibody sequences suitable for building an immune library were used due to the lack of VL domains. Analysis of immune libraries from the genes of the VH3, VHH3 and VH4 families showed that the VHH antibodies share in the VH3 and VH4 gene groups is insignificant, and selection from the combined library is less effective than from the VHH3 family of sequences. We found that the combination of ribosomal and phage displays leads to a higher enrichment of high-affinity fragments and avoids the loss of the original diversity during cloning. The combined method allowed us to obtain a greater number of different high-affinity sequences, and all the tested VHH fragments were able to specifically recognize the target, including the total protein extracts of cell cultures.

Interaction of surface plasmon-phonon polaritons with terahertz radiation in heavily doped GaAs epilayers

We report on experimental studies of the surface plasmon-phonon polariton excitations in heavily doped GaAs epitaxial layers. Reflection and emission of radiation in the frequency range of 2-19 THz were investigated for samples with surface-relief grating, as well as for samples with planar surface. The reflectivity spectrum for p-polarized radiation measured for the sample with the surface-relief grating demonstrates a set of resonances attributed to excitations of different surface plasmon-phonon polariton modes. The observed resonances lie beyond the limits of the Reststrahlen band. Terahertz radiation emission from the samples was studied in nonequilibrium conditions under the pulsed electric field excitation. Two contributions to the spectral density of the terahertz radiation have been revealed, the first being due to bulk plasmon-phonon polaritons (PPhPs), while the second originating from the surface PPhPs. A field dependence of the effective temperature of the bulk PPhPs has been established. Polarization dependence of the terahertz radiation related to surface PPhPs has been experimentally examined for the first time.

[Polymorbidity in elderly patients needing myocardial revascularization (a review article).]

In the present review, the main attention is focused on the problem of polymorbidity and age-related conditions in elderly patients with CAD who need myocardial revascularization. In addition to a high risk of mortality, elderly patients with polymorbidity are characterized reduced functional activity, cognitive impairment, low quality of life and frequent seeking medical help. There is evidence of the presence of common mechanisms that affect the aging process and the development of a number of associated diseases associated with age. Accordingly, the study of polymorbidity will allow us to develop strategies for the prevention it and understand the aging process and significantly reduce the risks of surgical intervention. In this regard, there is a necessity for research aimed at studying the causal relationship between coronary artery disease and polymorbidity in elderly patients with an additional assessment of functional and cognitive status for the development of specific prognostic tools and treatment strategies.

Localization and transient emission properties in InGaN/GaN quantum wells of different polarities within core-shell nanorods

Transient photoluminescence (PL) characteristics and localization phenomena in InGaN/GaN core-shell nanorods (NRs) were investigated from 6 K up to 285 K. The NRs exhibit three well-defined PL bands in the near-UV, blue, and green range ascribed to the emission of quantum well (QW) areas situated at the (1.00) sidewalls, (10.1) top facets, and (00.1) tip, respectively. At low temperature, time-resolved PL shows a fast decay time of about 0.5 ns for the semi- and non-polar QWs, while the polar QWs exhibit at least a twice-longer time. Rapid delocalization of carriers above 50 K indicates shallow potential fluctuations in the QWs. At room temperature, the characteristic fast PL decay time of the three QW bands stabilizes around 300 ps. The slow decaying PL components have different characteristic decay times that are explained by additional localization at basal stacking faults (BSFs), taking into account the quantum confined Stark effect. In addition, narrow excitonic luminescence lines are observed in the BSF-enriched polar QWs, providing direct evidence of the impact of the BSF/QW crossings on the optical properties of the NRs. A PL rise time of about 100 ps does not show any deviation between bands. These findings are suggestive of similar transport mechanisms in temperature equilibrium without inter-facet transport between different QWs. We believe that predictable transient characteristics can play a key role in creating uniform NR ensembles for device applications.

Influence of visceral obesity on the secretion of adipokines with epicardial adipocytes in patients with coronary heart disease

AIM

To study adipokine-cytokine profile of epicardial adipocytes (EAT) and subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) in conjunction with the area of visceral adipose tissue (VAT), biochemical and clinical characteristics of patients with coronary heart disease.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Examined 84 patients (70 men and 14 women) with coronary artery disease. In fact the presence of visceral obesity (VO) the patients were divided into two groups. Patients VO the sampling of adipocytes of EAT and SAT, with subsequent cultivation and evaluation of adipokine and provospalitelna activity. Carried out the determination of carbohydrate and lipid metabolism, adipokine and pro-inflammatory status in the blood serum.

RESULTS

It was found that adipokine-cytokine profile of adipocytes of EAT and SAT differ. Adipocytes art of the disease on the background characterized by an increase IL-1, TNF-α, leptin-adiponectin relationships and a decrease in the content of protective factors: adiponectin and anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10. While the SAT adipocytes was characterized by a decrease in the concentration of soluble receptor for leptin and the more pronounced leptinresistance, and the increase in proinflammatory cytokines was offset by the increase in the concentration of IL-10. The presence associated with multi-vessel coronary bed lesion, multifocal atherosclerosis, insulin resistance, atherogenic dyslipidemia, an imbalance of adipokines and markers of inflammation. So the value of the square VAT determined higher concentrations of leptin, TNF-α in adipocytes and serum, lipid and carbohydrate metabolism and a lower content of soluble receptor for leptin.

CONCLUSION

Thus, the disease on the background of the status of the adipocytes of EAT characterized as a &quot;metabolic inflammation&quot;, and may indicate the direct involvement of adipocytes in the pathogenesis of coronary artery disease, due to the formation of adipokine imbalance and the activation of proinflammatory reactions.

Neuroprotective Lithium Salts Protect Pancreatic β-Сells from Damage

We studied antidiabetic effects and cytoprotective activity of two lithium salts (lithium chloride and lithium carbonate) on the model of streptozotocin-induced diabetes mellitus type 2 in Wistar rats. Using the method of β-cells detection with antibodies to insulin, we demonstrated that streptozotocin reduced the number of β-cells and impaired their morphological structure. Both lithium preparations administered to diabetic animals for 28 days in doses of 10 and 8.9 mg/kg, respectively, attenuated the damaging effect of streptozotocin. This cytoprotective effect of lithium salts manifested in weakening of hyperglycemia, polyphagia, polydipsia, and weight loss. A satisfactory correlation between the morphometric data and blood glucose levels was revealed. The mechanisms of the multitarget action of lithium salts are discussed.

Influence of visceral obesity on the secretion of adipokines with epicardial adipocytes in patients with coronary heart disease

Aim. To study adipokine-cytokine profile of epicardial adipocytes (EAT) and subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) in conjunction with the area of visceral adipose tissue (VAT), biochemical and clinical characteristics of patients with coronary heart disease. Materials and methods. Examined 84 patients (70 men and 14 women) with coronary artery disease. In fact the presence of visceral obesity (VO) the patients were divided into two groups. Patients VO the sampling of adipocytes of EAT and SAT, with subsequent cultivation and evaluation of adipokine and provospalitelna activity. Carried out the determination of carbohydrate and lipid metabolism, adipokine and pro-inflammatory status in the blood serum. Results and discussion. It was found that adipokine-cytokine profile of adipocytes of EAT and SAT differ. Adipocytes art of the disease on the background characterized by an increase IL-1, TNF-α, leptin-adiponectin relationships and a decrease in the content of protective factors: adiponectin and anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10. While the SAT adipocytes was characterized by a decrease in the concentration of soluble receptor for leptin and the more pronounced leptinresistance, and the increase in proinflammatory cytokines was offset by the increase in the concentration of IL-10. The presence associated with multi-vessel coronary bed lesion, multifocal atherosclerosis, insulin resistance, atherogenic dyslipidemia, an imbalance of adipokines and markers of inflammation. So the value of the square VAT determined higher concentrations of leptin, TNF-α in adipocytes and serum, lipid and carbohydrate metabolism and a lower content of soluble receptor for leptin. Conclusion. Thus, the disease on the background of the status of the adipocytes of EAT characterized as a "metabolic inflammation", and may indicate the direct involvement of adipocytes in the pathogenesis of coronary artery disease, due to the formation of adipokine imbalance and the activation of proinflammatory reactions.

InAs/AlGaAs quantum dots for single-photon emission in a red spectral range

We report on comparative optical studies of InAs/Al_0.44Ga_0.56As quantum dots (QDs) grown by molecular beam epitaxy either with or without a thin GaAs interlayer inserted between the AlGaAs barrier and InAs QDs. Emission properties of individual QDs are investigated by micro-photoluminescence spectroscopy using 500-nm-size etched cylindric mesa structures. The single-photon statistics of the QDs of both types, emitting in the red spectral range between 636 and 750 nm, is confirmed by the measurements of the second-order correlation function. A negligibly small exciton fine structure splitting is detected in the majority of the QDs grown with the GaAs interlayer that implies the possibility of generating pairs of entangled photons with high entanglement fidelity.

[A retrospective historical study evaluating the safe use of current antidepressants in cardiology practice]

AIM

To confirm the data available in the literature on the cardiac safety of antidepressants.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

The archival data of 146 case histories were retrospectively analyzed. A study sample consisted of 96 cardiac inpatients regularly taking an antidepressant for more than 3 days during treatment for the underlying cardiovascular disease. The safe use of antidepressants was evaluated in terms of initial electrocardiogram (ECG) QTc interval changes, systolic and diastolic blood pressures (BP) (SBP and DBP), heart rate (HR), and hemorrhagic complications. The data obtained over periods of 3- and 6-8 days were analyzed.

RESULTS

The sample showed no clinically significant ECG QTc interval changes when taking regularly antidepressants within 8 days. Analysis of the dynamics of BP and HR in patients receiving antidepressants revealed no statistically significant differences in these indicators before and 3 and 6-8 days after drug administration. No case of hemorrhagic complications was seen in the study group taking antidepressants.

CONCLUSION

The investigation generally confirms the high cardiac safety of new-generation antidepressants within at least the first week of therapy. Noteworthy are the low daily drug dosages (relatively specified in the instructions) that are sufficient for most cardiac patients with depressive disorders and an additional factor for minimizing adverse reactions.

Prediction of influenza peaks in Russian cities: Comparing the accuracy of two SEIR models

This paper is dedicated to the application of two types of SEIR models to the influenza outbreak peak prediction in Russian cities. The first one is a continuous SEIR model described by a system of ordinary differential equations. The second one is a discrete model formulated as a set of difference equations, which was used in the Baroyan-Rvachev modeling framework for the influenza outbreak prediction in the Soviet Union. The outbreak peak day and height predictions were performed by calibrating both models to varied-size samples of long-term data on ARI incidence in Moscow, Saint Petersburg, and Novosibirsk. The accuracy of the modeling predictions on incomplete data was compared with a number of other peak forecasting methods tested on the same dataset. The drawbacks of the described prediction approach and possible ways to overcome them are discussed.

[Convergence and translational trends in the mirror the Syktyvkar branch of the Gerontological Society of RAS.]

The formation and development of Syktyvkar branch of Gerontological society of RAS is considered in the context of key global and domestic trends. The Russian scenario of integration trend is unique. But the tools of its implementation - model. The key ones are convergence, translation tools and boosting, upgrade of «human capital». Regional and national peculiarities of refraction of planetary social processes on the example of a specific scientific and public Association are discussed. It is concluded that the «flexible» integration models, the prototype and the «dining room niches» of which are scientific and public associations, which have in their Arsenal a profile «productive» industrial testing ground and the introduction of theoretical developments, are adequate.

Adipokine and Cytokine Profiles of Epicardial and Subcutaneous Adipose Tissue in Patients with Coronary Heart Disease

The content of adipokines, pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines were studied in adipocytes isolated from epicardial and subcutaneous adipose tissue of 24 coronary heart disease patients. The content of leptin and soluble leptin receptor in adipocytes of epicardial adipose tissue was higher by 28.6 and 56.9% and the level of adiponectin was lower by 33% than in adipocytes of the subcutaneous fat. In culture of epicardial adipocytes, the levels of proinflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-1 were higher. Subcutaneous adipose tissue adipocytes were characterized by higher levels of anti-inflammatory cytokines IL-10 and FGF-β. In epicardial adipocytes of coronary heart disease patients, the concentrations of leptin, TNF-α, and IL-1 were higher, while the levels of defense regulatory molecules (adiponectin, IL-10, and FGF-β) were lower than in subcutaneous adipocytes.

[Surgical treatment of hip subluxation and luxation in children with spinal hernia consequences]

AIM

To determine surgical tactics for hip subluxation and luxation in children with spinal hernia consequences.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study included 134 patients with hip subluxation and luxation with consequences of cerebrospinal hernias who were examined at the Turner Research Institute for Children's Orthopedics in 2006-2016. The main group consisted of 69 patients who received surgical treatment with hip joint stabilization. The control group included 65 children without surgery. Within each group patients were divided into 2 subgroups depending on level of spinal cord injury by using of Sharrard technique.

RESULTS

In patients with high lesion (Th and LI-LII) surgical treatment led to impairment of motor function in most cases (71%) (archival material); in case of LIII-LIV and LV-SI segments 25 of 45 (55%) patients improved motor performance while in control group motor function was deteriorated in 13 of 35 (37%) cases.

CONCLUSION

Neurosegmental level allows to predict the motor function and to determine surgical tactics.

[Collagen types ratio in prediction of postoperative ventral hernias]

AIM

To analyze collagen types ratio in skin and aponeurosis in order to predict postoperative ventral hernias.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The trial included 141 patients for the period 2012-2015. Group I (n=65) of patients without ventral hernias was divided into subgroup AI (primary operation, n=41) and BI (re-operation, n=24). Group II consisted of 76 patients with ventral hernias. We performed histological examination of skin and aponeurosis to define the collagen structure of connective tissue.

RESULTS

There were significant differences between collagen type I/III ratio in skin (2.81±0.52 in group I vs. 1.13±0.48 in group II) and aponeurosis (2.69±0.41 vs. 1.09±0.21, respectively, p≤0.05). We revealed strong direct correlation (r=+0.92) between aponeurosis and skin specimens in one group. Collagen type I level was 73.81±2.74% in subgroup AI and 72.03±2.47% in subgroup BI. Collagen type I was predominant (p≤0.05).

CONCLUSION

In patients with ventral hernias collagen type I/III ratio in skin is 2.54 times lower than in patients without hernias. Significant correlation of collagen types in skin and aponeurosis (r= +0.92) allows to predict the risk of postoperative ventral hernias on basis of skin fragment.

MYB fusions and CD markers as tools for authentication and purification of cancer stem cells from salivary adenoid cystic carcinoma

Cancer stem cells (CSC) are considered the major cause of aggressive tumor behavior, recurrence, metastases, and resistance to radiation, making them an attractive therapeutic target. However, isolation of CSC from tumor tissue and their characterization are challenging due to uncertainty about their molecular markers and conditions for their propagation. Adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC), which arises predominantly in the salivary glands, is a slow-growing but relentless tumor that frequently invades nerves and metastasizes. New effective treatment approaches for ACC have not emerged over the last 40years. Previously, based on a highly conserved SOX10 gene signature that we identified in the majority of ACC tumors, we suggested the existence in ACC of SOX10+ cells with neural stem properties and corroborated this hypothesis via isolation from ACC tissue a novel population of CSC, termed ACC-CSC. These cells activated NOTCH1 signaling and co-expressed SOX10 and other ACC-intrinsic neural crest stem cell markers with CD133, a CSC cell surface marker, suggesting that ACC is driven by a previously uncharacterized population of SOX10+/CD133+ cells with neural stem cell properties. Here, we authenticated ACC identity of our primary cultures by demonstrating that most of them harbor MYB-NFIB fusions, which are found in 86% of ACC. We demonstrated using CyTOF, a novel mass cytometry technology, that these cells express high β-catenin and STAT3 levels and are marked by CD24 and CD44. Finally, to streamline development of ACC cell lines, we developed RT-PCR tests for distinguishing mouse and human cells and used immunomagnetic cell sorting to eliminate mouse cells from long-term cell cultures. Overall, this study describes a new population of CSC that activates signaling pathways associated with poor prognosis, validates their ACC identity, and optimizes approaches that can be used for purification of ACC-CSC and generation of cell lines.

[The influence of 'potassium orotate' on neocollagenogenesis in implantation of polypropylene endoprosthesis and polypropylene combined with polylactic acid endoprosthesis]

AIM

To study neocollagenogenesis after implantation of polypropylene endoprosthesis and polypropylene combined with polylactic acid endoprosthesis on background of «potassium orotate» administration.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We used two different types of endoprosthesis in the experiment. The first type was made of just polypropylene, the second type was made of polypropylene combined with polylactic acid. Histological examination was performed using polarizing microscopy. Collagen types I and III ratio in connective tissue around the prosthesis was analyzed according to the color that was individual for each type.

RESULTS

The results were significantly better in case of collagenogenesis stimulation with Potassium orotate within 30 days and later for one type of endoprosthesis. Also we revealed that collagenogenesis and paraprosthesis capsule formation were more active in case of combined endoprosthesis. We revealed stimulating action of «Potassium Orotate» for collegenogenesis process, this fact was proved by increased collagen I/III ratio.

CONCLUSION

Optimization of collagenogenesis was based on persistent 1,37-fold increase of collagen I/III ratio in case of combined endoprosthesis after 90 days. It was manifested by accelerated formation of connective tissue capsule and facilitated early isolation of the implant from surrounding tissues.

[The Role of Urinary Lipocalin in Prognostication of Hospital Complications in Patients With Ischemic Heart Disease After Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting]

PURPOSE

To assess significance of urinary neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) for predicting hospital complications in subjects with ischemic heart disease (IHD) after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study included 720 subjects who underwent CABG between 03/2011 and 04/2012. Blood serum creatinine level, glomerular filtration rate (GFR) (MDRD formula) and NGAL concentration were measured before and on day 7 after CABG. The following unfavorable outcomes of operative intervention: myocardial infarction (MI), stroke or transient ischemic attack, acute or progression of chronic renal disease, remediastinotomy were registered during in-hospital period. Additive EuroSCORE was calculated for all patients.

RESULTS

There were no significant differences in serum creatinine level and GFR both before and on day 7 after CABG between groups of patients with different risk assessed by EuroSCORE, and with complicated and uncomplicated postoperative course. Urine NGAL level before and on day 7 after CABG was significantly higher in high and medium compared with low EuroSCORE risk groups. Preoperative NGAL urine level was significantly higher in patients with than in those without MI or stroke after CABG. NGAL urine level was also higher in patients with development of acute renal failure (ARF) compared with those without ARF. Both pre- and postoperative NGAL urine levels were higher in patients with unfavorable outcome while there were no significant differences in serum creatinine levels and CRF between patients with favorable and unfavorable outcomes.

CONCLUSION

Preoperative measurement of urinary NGAL - a preclinical marker of acute kidney injury - allowed to predict more accurately the hospital risk of development of adverse cardiovascular and renal complications of CABG.