State Of Cardiovascular System Research Articles

Relationship between biomarkers and platelet aggregation activity in presence of hydrogen sulfide in patients with coronary heart disease

Biological significance of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) in regulation of platelet functions and in development of thrombosis is being studied, but there is no consensus on the role of H2S in these physiological processes. The platelets are very sensitive to various mediators released from blood vessels and blood cells. Multiple pro-inflammatory molecules may exert direct effects on the state of cardiovascular system. Thus, an imbalance in the production of pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines increases the risk of thrombosis, and it can lead to endothelial dysfunction, instability and rupture of atherosclerotic plaques. The aim of our study was to determine concentrations and identify the relationships between certain biomarkers (LIGHT, PlGF, IFNá2, TNFáâ, IL-3, IL-5, IL-6, IL-8, IL-15, IL-17F, MIP-1á, CXCL16) and collagen-induced platelet aggregation in presence of hydrogen sulfide exposure in patients with coronary heart disease. We performed a simple one-step comparative study which included 22 patients with coronary artery disease (CHD). The level of biomarkers was determined by multiplex analysis (xMAP technology). Platelet aggregation activity was studied by the turbidimetric assay. All samples were examined against the background of a 30-min pre-incubation with hydrogen sulfide, with the addition of an aggregation inducer (collagen, 2 mmol/L). Sodium hydrosulfide at a concentration of 10-6 M was used as a hydrogen sulfide donor. The results of comparative and correlation analysis were considered reliable at a statistical significance level of p 0.05. The patients were divided into two groups, i.e., group 1 (n = 10) showed a reduced aggregation or a decreased size of aggregates against the background of preincubation with H2S. In group 2 (n = 12), preincubation with H2S was followed by increased degree or size of platelet aggregates. The concentrations of tumor necrosis factor ligand (LIGHT), interferon IFNá2, interleukins IL-3, IL-8, IL-15, IL-17F, chemokine CCL3/MIP-1a were significantly increased in group 2 patients, where collagen-induced platelet aggregation increased upon preincubation H2S, as compared with patients in group 1. The correlation analysis revealed positive correlations found that in the 1st group of patients between the concentrations of MIP-1a (Rs = 0.56, p = 0.03; Rs = 0.69, p = 0.01), IL-5 (Rs = 0.83, p = 0.01; Rs = 0.73, p = 0.01), and IL-8 (Rs = 0.60, p = 0.02; Rs = 0.95, p = 0.01), respectively, and with both size of aggregates and the index of the platelet aggregation degree. Moreover, distinct correlations between the aggregate size and the concentration of IL-6 (Rs = 0.53, p = 0.04) were revealed. In the 2nd group of patients, correlations were found with the size of aggregates and PIGF (Rs = 0.59, p = 0.04), and between CXCL16 values and the size of aggregates (Rs = 0.58, p = 0.04), like as with the degree of aggregation (Rs = 0.65, p = 0.04). Thus, we have found that, in 2 groups of patients with coronary heart disease with increased collagen-induced platelet aggregation, preincubated with H2S, higher concentrations of inflammatory biomarkers (IFNá2, IL-3, IL-8, IL-15, IL-17F, MIP-1á) were detected. One may suggest that the more pronounced proinflammatory state in this group of patients may cause platelet resistance to inhibitory effect of hydrogen sulfide. In the 1st group of patients, we revealed multiple correlations of aggregation parameters with values of inflammatory markers (IL-5, IL-6, IL-8, MIP- 1a), which may be a pre-requisite for different corrective therapies for the patients of these groups.

Relationship between central hemodynamic parameters and body composition and the functional state of neuro-autonomic regulation in young men

The aim of the study is to examine the relationship between central hemodynamic parameters and body composition by considering baseline functional state of neuro-autonomic regulation according to the index of regulatory system activity (IRSA) in young men. Material and methods. A total of 44 male participants were divided into three groups based on the IRSA level. The first group included 26 men with an optimal IRSA level. The second and third groups, each of 9 men, with moderate and high IRSA levels, respectively. The functional state of cardiovascular system was assessed using a device “REOKOM” (Kharkiv). The measurement of body composition was performed by weight-scale “TANITA BC-601” (Japan). The functional state of autonomic nervous system was assessed using a device “CARDIOLAB” (Kharkiv). Results. Our results have demonstrated higher hemodynamic parameters in men with moderate and high level of IRSA. Men with elevated level of sympathetic activity had the highest indices of the pumping function of the heart, and those with the balance between parasympathetic and sympathetic branches had the lowest indices of the pumping heart function. As for the indicators of total peripheral resistance and specific peripheral resistance, another trend was seen, namely, individuals with a balanced state of autonomic nervous regulation had the highest parameters, and those with a predominance of sympathetic tone had the lowest ones. Close correlations have been found between increased levels of regulatory mechanism tension and cardiohemodynamic parameters. An indicator analysis of the body component composition has revealed a significant increase in body mass index, total and visceral fat content in the examined groups with moderate and severe regulatory system tension. In addition, correlations have been found between IRSA and constituting components of body composition. Conclusions. The group assignment of the examined individuals according to IRSA has shown that a high tension of the regulatory mechanisms increased the load on the cardiovascular system, as indicated by higher indicators of central hemodynamics. In individuals with an optimal level of regulatory system functioning, the cardiovascular system activity is optimal and less energy consuming.

The role of magnetic resonance imaging in cardio-oncology

In recent decades, groundbreaking methods of diagnosis and treatment were developed leading to significantly increased life span of patients with malignant neoplasms. Among patients treated for cancer, cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death not associated with cancer. Early identification of cardiotoxicity is very important as it allows to apply early prevention measures and modify antitumor treatment schemes. Prevention and treatment of cardiotoxicity are possible only with a functioning multidisciplinary team including oncologists and cardiologists. Magnetic resonance imaging of the heart plays a significant role in monitoring the condition of cardiovascular system during antitumor treatment. This technique allows to obtain accurate characteristics of the tissues and evaluate myocardial perfusion without radiation exposure.

Effect of Cold Adaptation on the State of Cardiovascular System and Cardiac Tolerance to Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury.

Despite the unconditional success achieved in the treatment and prevention of AMI over the past 40 years, mortality in this disease remains high. Hence, it is necessary to develop novel drugs with mechanism of action different from those currently used in clinical practices. Studying the molecular mechanisms involved in the cardioprotective effect of adapting to cold could contribute to the development of drugs that increase cardiac tolerance to the impact of ischemia/reperfusion. An analysis of the published data shows that the long-term human stay in the Far North contributes to the occurrence of cardiovascular diseases. At the same time, chronic and continuous exposure to cold increases tolerance of the rat heart to ischemia/ reperfusion. It has been demonstrated that the cardioprotective effect of cold adaptation depends on the activation of ROS production, stimulation of the β2-adrenergic receptor and protein kinase C, MPT pore closing, and KATP channel.

Effectiveness of different treatment regimens of enhanced external counterpulsation in patients with stable coronary artery disease complicated by heart failure

Aim. To study the effect of various therapy regimens with enhanced external counterpulsation (EECP) on exercise tolerance, quality of life, indices of structural and functional state of cardiovascular system in patients with stable coronary artery disease (CAD) complicated by chronic heart failure (CHF).Material and methods. The study included patients with stable CAD complicated by CHF with reduced and intermediate left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) from the randomized EXCEL trial (NCT05913778; n=120) and additionally patients with similar inclusion and exclusion criteria (n=90) who were randomized into groups with different EECP treatment regimens for 12 months: Group 1 (n=40): course of 35 hour-long procedures; Group 2 (n=40): course of 35 hourlong procedures every 6 months; Group 3 (n=30): course of 20 hour-long procedures then constantly 1 hour per week; Group 4 (n=30): constantly 2 hours per week; Group 5 (n=30): course of 20 hour-long procedures then constantly 2 hours per week; Group 0 (placebo ; n=40): course of 35 hour-long procedures with compression pressure 80 mm Hg. All patients at baseline and after 12 months were assessed for clinical status, quality of life (MLHFQ, SF-36), NT-proBNP levels, LVEF, as well as exercise tolerance (6-minute walk test; 6MWT) initially, after 3, 6, 9 and 12 months. Correlation analysis and risk assessment of adverse events (combined endpoint — combination of cases of adverse cardiovascular events, deaths, hospitalizations for CHF, new-onset of atrial fibrillation, diabetes, decreased renal function) was performed.Results. Treatment effectiveness had positive correlation with EECP duration (r(S)=0,670; p<0,001) and treatment regimen (r(S)=0,620; p<0,001). The maximum effect (changes in NT-proBNP levels, LVEF, clinical status, quality of life) was noted in the combined and constant regimen groups (5, 4, 2). The increase of 6WMTdistance was 6,6% in group 0, 24,9% in group 1, 44,5% in group 2, 31,8% in group 3, 49,1% in group 4, 58,6% in group 5. The proportion of patients with an increase in 6WMT-distance >20% after 12 months was 7,7%, 72,5%, 97,5%, 76,7%, 90%, 100%, respectively. Cumulative event-free survival was highest in groups 5, 4, and 2 (0,97, 0,93, and 0,86, respectively), and the risk of developing combined endpoint in these groups was minimal (0,035, 0,075, and 0,150, respectively).Conclusion. The effect of EECP treatment in patients with coronary artery disease complicated by CHF depended on the EECP hours and regimen. Alternative EECP regimens (with more treatments spread evenly over the year) in addition to optimal medical therapy may improve the management of these patients.

Сложности и ограничения в медикаментозной терапии пациента с рецидивирующим нефролитиазом и сопутствующими хроническими заболеваниями сердечно-сосудистой системы

Nowadays, under conditions of an aging population, the comorbidity problem is of utmost importance in all branches of clinical medicine. The greatest difficulties are caused by the case when drug therapy of one nosology contradict with drugs prescribed for the treatment of another. In modern cardiology, extensive groups of diuretics and antihypertensives are widely used for therapy. At the same time, doctors do not always take into account the negative impact of cardiotropic therapy on the kidney stone disease process, as well as the general principles of metaphylaxis of nephrolithiasis on the cardiovascular system state. The paper presents data that allows to recommend the prescription of thiazides and combined antihypertensives, which have such in their composition, if the form of nephrolithiasis is idiopathic (stiff restriction). Besides, in conditions of urate nephrolithiasis, it is desirable to replace acetylsalicylic acid with clopidogrel, losartan with another sartan or an angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor. It is worth prescribing citrate mixtures with caution in metaphylaxis and nephrolithiasis litholysis, if there is no complete confidence in compensated cardiovascular diseases. KEYWORDS: recurrent nephrolithiasis, thiazides, potassium-sparing diuretics, gliflozines, losartan, acetylsalicylic acid, furosemide, acetazolamide, natural diuretics, urine pH. FOR CITATION: Yarovoy S.K., Royuk R.V. Difficulties and limitations in drug therapy of a patient with recurrent nephrolithiasis and concomitant chronic cardiovascular diseases. Russian Medical Inquiry. 2024;8(4):235–239 (in Russ.). DOI: 10.32364/2587-6821-2024-8-4-8.

Immunological indexes for assessing parameters of cardiovascular system in athletes of different qualification

Timely diagnosis and prevention of cardiovascular diseases is based on markers that detect changes in the athlete’s body at an early stage of disease. To implement this task, it is important to use novel laboratory techniques. We have carried out a comparative determination of immunological markers, specific antibodies to angiotensin, bradykinin, histamine, dopamine, serotonin and functional indicators of the cardiovascular system in athletes of various qualifications. The object of study included athletes of the Russian national teams who underwent an in-depth examination (IME) as part of medical survey. The participants were divided into groups depending on the sport arts and qualifications. Representatives of the group “Cyclic sports” included athletes without a category of 30 people and 29 qualified athletes (1st step, Candidate Master, Master of Sports, etc.). The “Combat sports” group consisted of 32 people without a category and 31 athletes with qualifications similar to those indicated above. Athletes of “Speed-strength” sports are represented by a group of 31 people without a category and 29 athletes with qualifications. The functional parameters of the cardiovascular system included analysis of heart rate, systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure, which were compared with control values established for the athletes. The immunological indexes were determined in blood serum of the athletes and in subjects from control group by means of the solid-phase ELISA method using conjugated antigens of angiotensin, bradykinin, histamine, dopamine, serotonin for absorption on the plates. To compare the indexes, a control group of 30 people without cardiovascular symptoms was examined. Diastolic blood pressure for athletes of cyclic sports and combat sports was below the control values, and, for athletes of speed-strength sports, it was higher than in control group. A decrease in diastolic blood pressure for the above subgroup of athletes may indicate characteristic adaptive physiological changes in myocardium. The levels of immune-related indexes for serotonin, dopamine for the athletes of all groups corresponded to the control values. The only exception concerned qualified athletes of cyclic sports, which significantly differed from the normal values, compared to athletes without a sports category. Significantly high immunological parameters for histamine and angiotensin did not depend on the athlete’s qualification. In athletes involved in speed-strength sports, the levels of indexes for bradykinin did not differ from the normal values, and, for athletes in cyclic sports and combat sports, they significantly exceeded the norm.We have shown that different levels and types of sports activities affect the performance of cardiovascular system in their own way. The changes in immunological parameters reflect regulatory state of cardiovascular system. Accordingly, their simultaneous increase against the control may indicate participation in the development of cardiovascular diseases. The differences in their levels for athletes involved in combat sports, cyclic and speed-strength sporting activities show deeper changes in regulatory systems associated with duration and level of physical activities.

Camera-based Cardiovascular Screening based on Heart Rate and Its Variability In Pre- and Post-Exercise Conditions.

Analysis of heart rate (HR) and heart rate variability (HRV) in pre- and post-exercise conditions can provide useful information about the health condition of cardiovascular system. Remote photoplethysmography (rPPG) that uses a contactless camera to measure vital signs from the human face might allow for ubiquitous applications in the fitness scenario. This paper benchmarks the accuracy of HR and HRV measured by ECG, PPG and rPPG, and investigates the difference of HR and HRV parameters between individuals with/without the exercise habit in pre- and post-exercise phases. We built a fitness benchmark consisting of 14 healthy subjects to perform running exercise on a treadmill, with video and reference data recorded simultaneously. The results show that rPPG has a similar performance as PPG in both the estimation of HR and HRV. The HRV parameters (Mean IBI, SDNN, LF, VLF, and SD2) of rPPG/PPG show good agreements with the ECG reference. Subjects with a regular exercise habit show lower resting HR and smaller values of HRV parameters in pre-exercise phase, fewer changes in HR and HRV at the same exercise intensity, and faster HR recovery after exercising, as compared with those without an exercise habit. The preliminary results suggest that rPPG is a promising surrogate of PPG for screening HR and HRV before and after exercise, to indicate the performance of cardiac training.

Stratifying breast cancer patients by baseline risk of cardiotoxic complications linked to chemotherapy

A majority of modern antitumor pharmaceuticals are accompanied by cardiotoxicity. The <b>study aims</b> to present practical approaches to stratifying the baseline risk of antitumor therapies' cardiotoxicity in patients newly diagnosed with breast cancer started on anthracyclines and/or trastuzumab.<br /> <b>Material and methods: </b>Stratifying the risks of antitumor therapy was carried out according to the European Society of Cardiology recommendations. A therapist examined all patients for existing cardiovascular diseases and risk factors detection. The blood levels of glucose, cholesterol, creatinine, cardiac troponin I, and brain natriuretic peptide were determined. Electrocardiography and echocardiography with an assessment of the myocardium global longitudinal strain were performed.<br /> <b>Results: </b>In total, 128 breast cancer patients with a mean age of 54.3±11.0 years were included in the study. Of them, 84.4% had tumor stages I and II, and 21.1% were HER2-positive. Chronic heart failure and ischemic heart disease were detected in 2.3%.  Among the risk factors, the most common were arterial hypertension (51.6%), obesity (29.7%), age 65-70 years (18%), significant smoking history (15.6%), and diabetes mellitus (11.7%). Elevated cardiac troponin I and brain natriuretic peptide baseline levels were present in 5.5% and 7.0% of patients, respectively. To a high-risk group for cardiotoxic complications, 7.8% were allocated, 35.7% were assigned to the moderate-risk group, and 54.7% had low risk. High/very high and moderate-risk patients (43.5%) were referred to a cardiologist. Cardioprotective treatment was started immediately in high/very high-risk patients.<br /> <b>Conclusion</b>: All revealed differences between the cardiovascular risk groups were related to age, cardiovascular system condition, and the severity of comorbid pathologies. The baseline stratification of patients into risk groups is a crucial step in preventing the cardiotoxicity of anticancer therapy. Comprehensive assessing the patient's condition before and during chemotherapy allows for avoiding the development of fatal cardiovascular complications in at-risk patients.

Flexible Sensors Array Based on Frosted Microstructured Ecoflex Film and TPU Nanofibers for Epidermal Pulse Wave Monitoring

Recent advances in flexible pressure sensors have fueled increasing attention as promising technologies with which to realize human epidermal pulse wave monitoring for the early diagnosis and prevention of cardiovascular diseases. However, strict requirements of a single sensor on the arterial position make it difficult to meet the practical application scenarios. Herein, based on three single-electrode sensors with small area, a 3 × 1 flexible pressure sensor array was developed to enable measurement of epidermal pulse waves at different local positions of radial artery. The designed single sensor holds an area of 6 × 6 mm2, which mainly consists of frosted microstructured Ecoflex film and thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) nanofibers. The Ecoflex film was formed by spinning Ecoflex solution onto a sandpaper surface. Micropatterned TPU nanofibers were prepared on a fluorinated ethylene propylene (FEP) film surface using the electrospinning method. The combination of frosted microstructure and nanofibers provides an increase in the contact separation of the tribopair, which is of great benefit for improving sensor performance. Due to this structure design, the single small-area sensor was characterized by pressure sensitivity of 0.14 V/kPa, a response time of 22 ms, a wide frequency band ranging from 1 to 23 Hz, and stability up to 7000 cycles. Given this output performance, the fabricated sensor can detect subtle physiological signals (e.g., respiration, ballistocardiogram, and heartbeat) and body movement. More importantly, the sensor can be utilized in capturing human epidermal pulse waves with rich details, and the consistency of each cycle in the same measurement is as high as 0.9987. The 3 × 1 flexible sensor array is employed to acquire pulse waves at different local positions of the radial artery. In addition, the time domain parameters including pulse wave transmission time (PTT) and pulse wave velocity (PWV) can be obtained successfully, which holds promising potential in pulse-based cardiovascular system status monitoring.

Long-term impact of COVID-19 on cardiovascular health of healthcare workers of a tertiary care hospital of Bangladesh

Background: The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is a multisystem disease that sometimes affects the cardiovascular system (CVS) during acute illness and follows a protracted course in a proportion of patients causing ‘post-COVID syndrome’. Exercise tolerance test (ETT) can assess functional capacity and imaging modalities like echocardiography and cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) can assess structural and functional status of cardiovascular system (CVS) efficiently. However, the pattern of cardiovascular involvement and its effect on functional capacity in COVID-19 survivors long after the index illness are inadequately known. This study was carried out to detect the functional status and imaging findings in COVID-19 recovered healthcare workers.
 Methods: This cohort study was carried out in the Department of Cardiology of the National Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases (NICVD), Dhaka, Bangladesh from July 2021 to December 2021. Thirty male healthcare workers, previously not known to have any cardiac disease, who suffered from reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR)-confirmed COVID-19 of mild severity at least 3 months back were included. Besides clinical evaluation, ETT, echocardiography and CMR were done.
 Results: The mean age was 37.2±4.7 years. The mean time interval from RT-PCR positivity was 317.4±85.7 days. The functional capacity was good in the study subjects; the achieved metabolic equivalents (METs) were 13.0±1.5. The mean left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) was 66.9% ± 6.2%; all were within the normal range. The mean LV global longitudinal strain (LVGLS) was -19.2% ± -1.9%; 6 patients had LVGLS <-18%. One patient had mildly reduced tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) of 16 mm but 3 patients had reduced lateral tricuspid annulus peak systolic velocity (RVS’). CMR revealed subtle abnormalities in 14 (46.7%) patients. Eight patients (26.67%) had increased T2 signal indicating myocardial oedema, 2 (6.7%) had subepicardial late gadolinium enhancement (LGE).
 Conclusion: In healthcare workers who recovered from mild COVID-19, despite preserved functional capacity, subclinical cardiac abnormalities detected by echocardiography and CMR may be present. Long-term follow-up is warranted to define the clinical significance of these findings.
 BIRDEM Med J 2023; 13(1): 3-11

Особенности течения ишемической болезни сердца в постковидном периоде

Introduction. The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has been going on for more than two years and is significantly affecting routine clinical practice. Despite the numerous publications on heart damage in the acute phase of COVID-19, there is not enough data regarding the dynamics of cardiovascular system condition in coronary artery disease (CAD) patients after the infection caused by SARS-CoV-2. The influence of the long-term consequences of the disease on cardiovascular system condition of patients who have had infection requires careful study. Aim. To assess the clinical and laboratory picture and coronary lesion nature in CAD patients with mild or moderate course of COVID-19 infection after at least 12 weeks. Materials and methods. The analysis of clinical, laboratory parameters and coronary angiography of 118 CAD patients aged 46–67 years (mean age 60.2 ± 6.1 years) after a serologically confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection at the lapse of 12 weeks was carried out. The patients were divided into 2 groups: group 1 included 60 patients with a mild COVID-19, group 2 included 58 patients with a moderate COVID-19 course. Results. CAD patients with a moderate course of COVID-19 in the acute period had higher values of office blood pressure, higher incidence of uncontrolled arterial hypertension, major multivessel lesions of coronary arteries and lesions of the main vessels than CAD patients with mild COVID-19. When comparing echocardiographic parameters in patients with moderate COVID-19, the lower parameters of the left ventricular ejection fraction were found which is quite consistent with the higher NT-proBNP values in these patients. Conclusion. CAD patients, who have had moderate COVID-19 in the acute phase of infectious process, constitute a special risk group for a subsequent more severe course of the underlying disease.

STATE OF CARDIOVASCULAR SYSTEM IN MILITARIES OF UKRAINE ARMED FORCES UNDER THE WAR WITH RUSSIA.

To study the state of cardiovascular system in servicemen (SM) of Ukraine Armed Forces (UAF), who took part in the fight against russian military aggression, and the factors of military service that could cause the occurrence of circulatory system diseases. The study included 110 men of UAF, who were undergoing examination and treatment at the NRCRM. The average age of the examinees was (46.4 ± 8.8) years. The checkup included an examination by a cardiologist and different diseases experts (as indicated), electrocardiography, Doppler echocardiography, daily monitoring of the electrocardiogram and other necessary studies. Hypertensive heart disease (HHD) was diagnosed in 83.6 % of patients, coronary heart disease (CHD) in 52.8 % ones, including 7.3 % of persons who survived an acute myocardial infarction, heart failure (HF) in 80.9 % of patients. Before the war, 51.8 and 7.3 % of SM suffered from HHD and CHD, respectively. Seven SM sustained a missile wound of extremities and subsequently developed HHD, suggesting a possible association between the two events (Pearson's χ2 = 4.148 with р = 0.042, but р = 0.081 using Fisher's exact test). Out of 18 SM without signs of HHD, 8 had normal body weight and 10 had obesity, when in SM with HHD it was 7 and 15 persons, respectively.Obesity I degree discovered in 10, and II degree in 2 SM. Excess body weight and the degree of obesity had a significant relationship with HHD development (χ2 = 8.995; р = 0.029). The age of patients with CHD (50 persons) was significantly greater than that of patients without CHD (52 persons): (50.1 ± 5.4) vs. (42.0 ± 9.5) years at р = 0.000. Among circulatory system diseases in SM of UAF HHD and CHD were the most common ones. More than half of the SM were sick with HHD before being drafted into the army. During the period of taking part in the war the development of HHD new cases was observed in 35 SM, and CHD in 50 SM. The onset of HHD new cases can be associated with missile wound of extremities and obesity, and new CНD cases with age factor.

Impact of neurobiofeedback by beta rhythm of the brain on the functional state of cardiovascular system of athletes with different motor activity

To examine the impact of one procedure of neurobiofeedback by beta rhythm of the brain on the cardiovascular system functional state in the athletes with different character of motor activity. The study included 1020 male athletes aged 18-21 years. Depending on the motor activity, patients were divided into 5 groups: 1st group - cyclic sports athletes (38%); 2nd group - speed-power sports athletes (25%); 3rd group - combat sport athletes (3%); 4th group - team sports athletes (17%) and 5th group - athletes of complex coordination sports (17%). The procedure of neurobiofeedback by beta rhythm of the brain was done in the conditions of active waking at open eyes. Registration of bioelectric activity of the brain and training on beta rhythm were done in the Fz-Cz lead by the international system «10-20» with the arrangement of indifferent electrode on the earlobe of the subjects (PAC «BOSLAB», Institute of Molecular Biology and Biophysics, Novosibirsk, Russia). Heterochronic pattern of changes in the indicators of systemic pressure, cardiac and vascular activity of the athletes' body during a single procedure of neurobiofeedback by beta rhythm of the brain in the preparation period of the training process, depending on the character of athletic activities, was found. In response to the impact, the following indicators have changed significantly: heart rate and index of functional changes in combat sport athletes (3rd group); stroke and cardiac output in all groups. Cardiovascular regulation index and specific peripheral vascular resistance significantly increased in the groups 2-5. Cardiac index significantly decreased in the groups 1, 2, 4 and 5. Qualitative changes in types of blood circulation occurred in all groups: in groups 1, 3 and 5 - from hyperkinetic to eukinetic, in group 2 - from hyperkinetic to hypokinetic, in group 4 - from eukinetic to hypokinetic, contributing to the economization of cardiovascular activity function. The use of neurobiofeedback by the beta rhythm of the brain in the practice of sports medicine requires additional detailed research of the features and development of individual methods depending on the type of athletic activity, features of cardiac activity regulation, etc.

Space weather and hypertensive crises at high Latitudes (in Yakutsk)

The space weather impact on the health status of people with cardiovascular diseases is quite significant and it has been shown by many researchers. To examine this relationship at high latitudes, we made a Yakutsk ambulance electronic database analysis. The significant coincidences of geomagnetic disturbance indicators (Kp-index - a global geophysical disturbance index) and the increased blood pressure emergency calls number have been determined during the high solar activity years. The blood pressure increase cases analysis shows that patients with primary essential arterial hypertension (AH) seek medical help in 57%. Furthermore, 7% of AH patients experienced a hypertensive crisis (HC) with an increase in systolic blood pressure (SBP) from 180 mm Hg, diastolic blood pressure (DBP) from 120 mm Hg. The medical data analysis and the space weather data (Kp-index) comparison demonstrate a significant coincidence, which became the main base for the conclusion that heliogeophysical disturbance effects on the cardiovascular system state of a person living at high latitudes.

Analysis of interactions between cardiovascular oscillations for discrimination of early vascular disorders in arterial hypertension and type 2 diabetes

ObjectiveEarly identification of blood flow regulation disturbances allows developing new diagnostic methods for the predictive and personalized medicine in cardiovascular diseases. Comprehensive analysis of interactions between cardiovascular oscillations was proposed to reveal vascular disorders in arterial hypertension (AH) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients. MethodsHeart rate variability (HRV), forearm and foot skin blood flow (SBF) were registered simultaneously at rest and under postural exposure in controls, AH and T2DM patients. Spectral components of signals, group wavelet phase coherence (gWPC) and Spearman's rank correlations were evaluated. Receiver Operating Characteristic curve analysis was applied to reveal the most effective predictors of cardiovascular system state. ResultsIn patients, spectral amplitudes of foot SBF was lower in low and high frequency ranges at rest and under postural test than forearm SBF. In controls these parameters were lower only in high frequency ranges versus forearm. HRV spectral components were lower at rest in T2DM and under test in all patients. For all signal pairs gWPC decreased in low frequency interval at rest and during test in patients. Correlations were higher on forearm in AH and on foot in T2DM during test. gWPC and correlations were the most effective to distinguish patients from controls. Correlations had high discriminative power to differentiate AH and T2DM patients. ConclusionAnalysis of interactions between cardiovascular oscillations can be used as an effective instrument for clinical application in prognosis and diagnosis of early pathophysiological changes in cardiovascular system in response to various exposure and under different pathologies.

Components of Oranta-AO software expert system for innovative application of blood pressure monitors.

The authors developed and substantiated the original methods of arterial oscillography, which were implemented in the developed Oranta-AO information system. The methods of application to the arterial oscillogram registered at measurement of arterial pressure gives the possibility to carry out the supplementary systematic assessment of health, functional state of cardiovascular system, its reserve possibilities etc. The authors also developed an Expert System (based on machine-learning methods) for the differential diagnosis of risks of heart, lung, mental illness and prognosis of some blood parameters. Oranta-AO software system was created based on research results due to methods and algorithms that were innovate. For the mathematical modeling of arterial oscillograms used cyclic random processes. Methods of arterial oscillograms processing based on its model in the form of a cyclic random process was developed. The method of evaluation of the rhythm function of arterial oscillograms and statistical methods for estimating the probabilistic characteristics of arterial oscillograms were developed. To solve the clustering problem, the Python k-means and k-means++ algorithm were used. Oranta-AO information system consists of three interrelated parts: mobile application, computing kernel and web system. Computing kernel and web system are deployed on AWS servers and have been tested already. The developed environment aims to be integrated into every new model of electronic meters in the world. Certification (EN 62304:2014, ISO 13485: 2018) in Ukraine is completed, PCT priority is completed. The next step will be to establish cooperation with manufacturers of electronic pressure monitors, patenting and certification in world.

Cardiovascular regulation in female students of northern university during extreme photoperiod seasons

Objective. The aim of study was to assess the state of cardiovascular system in female students in the northern region during the seasons with extreme photoperiod. Design and methods. The study was conducted in Nizhnevartovsk, Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Okrug-Yugra (a region equated to the Far North) in the seasons with extreme values of photoperiod. The female students of Nizhnevartovsk State University (n = 73) aged 18-21 years were examined. Anthropometric measurements were carried out. Systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP) and heart rate (HR) were recorded automatically using UA-101 model tonometer. Pulse and mean dynamic pressure were calculated according to Hickam's formula. On the basis of HR we determined the average duration of cardiac cycle. Autonomic tone was assessed according to calculated Kerdo index (KI). We used CardioVisor-06c to determine the prenosological state of cardiac activity. Results. There was a significant increase in body weight in the short daylight period. The HR during the long daylight period was significantly higher than during light deprivation, leading to a shorter cardiac cycle duration. Seasonal dynamics of blood pressure characteristics were not evident, although during “white nights” at least 10 % female students had SBP higher than 130 mm Hg, and maximal SBP reached 135 mm Hg. KI values demonstrated significant changes in autonomic tone. During short daylight hours average characteristics of KI were negative and reflected activity of parasympathetic activity. Increase of sympathetic influences was during longer daylight hours. During “biological twilight” “Myocardium” index was significantly lower than during white nights. During short daylight hours only 10 % students showed “Myocardium” index over normal values (15 %), while half of respondents had higher values during white nights. “Rhythm” index was normal during the short daylight hours and significantly higher during the long daylight hours, only 10 % participants had normal values. Conclusions. The analysis of electrophysiological parameters of myocardium showed seasonal changes in female students and “white nights” were associated with more negative effects than “biological twilight”. During “white nights” we showed increase in integral indices of dispersion mapping, increase in resting HR and KI.

Effect of xenon-oxygen inhalations on functional status of cardiovascular system in oncological patients suffering chronic pain syndrome

Purpose of the study. Assessment of xenon-oxygen inhalations effect on functional status of cardiovascular system in oncological patients with chronic pain syndrome.Materials and methods. Randomized double-blinded placebo-controlled clinical trial with assessment of xenon-oxygen inhalations effect on electrocardiogaram, blood pressure and heart rate was performed in oncological patients with chronic pain syndrome received analgetic drug therapy. 48 of them were in the main group and received xenon-oxygen-air mixture containing 50 % xenon and 50 % oxygen twice a day during 7 visits, and other 47 were in control group and received oxygen-air mixture containing 50 % oxygen. Level of pain severity according to numerical rating scale and satisfaction of patients on the base of questionary were also assessed.Results. No significant negative effects of xenon on electrocardiogaram were revealed. In the main group alike the control group the QT intervals did not increase. There were multidirectional changes of T-wave without clinical symptoms in main and control groups. Xenon had no influence on heart rate but lead to statistically significant systolic and diastolic blood pressure decrease. Pain severity was significantly alleviated in the main group from 50 [40; 60] to 40 [25; 50]%; p < 0,05. Satisfaction of the patients in xenon group was 71 % vs 11 % in control group; p = 0,0001.Conclusion. Xenon-oxygen inhalations had no negative side effects on electrocardiogram, blood pressure and heart rate in oncological patients with chronic pain syndrome. Xenon inclusion in complex therapy increased effectiveness of pain treatment and satisfaction of the patients.

Methods of studying the cardiovascular system in students of a sports university in the process of recreational rest

Background and Study Aim. The aim of the study is to develop a methodology for examining the cardiovascular system in students with different levels of physical activity.
 Materials and Methods. Students of the Academy of Physical Culture (Kharkiv, Ukraine) took part in the study: 3-4 year full-time and part-time students. A scheme for examining the cardiovascular system in this category of students has been drawn up. A survey was conducted during practical exercises on physical recreation during the years 2006 – 2011. The research methods were taken as the basis: circulatory organs; patients with diseases of the cardiovascular system; circulatory systems.
 Results. The definitions of recreation are considered. Its types and functions are shown. Directions for assessing the level of the functional state of the cardiovascular system in students with a high level of physical activity are given. A plan-scheme for studying this system has been drawn up. The peculiarity of the system is to take into account the specifics of the future profession. Assessment of the functional state of the student's cardiovascular system is carried out in a complex manner.
 Conclusions. It is necessary to take into account the anamnesis of the entire life of the student. It is necessary to apply sports, clinical, instrumental, laboratory, biochemical research methods. The results of functional trials and tests should be taken into account. Functional tests and tests should reflect the response of the cardiovascular system to the physical load and determine the overall physical performance.