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Actual Problems of Theoretical and Clinical Medicine

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No 4 (2025)
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ORIGINAL ARTICLES

13-28 67
Abstract

Morbidity from acute intestinal infections exhibits a seasonal pattern and is associated with climatic factors. Assessing changes in these indicators and the influence of weather conditions in the Kyzylorda region is relevant. This study provides a basis for effective epidemiological monitoring and preventive measures.

Objective: to determine the seasonal characteristics of acute intestinal infections in the Kyzylorda region and to assess the impact of climatic factors (temperature and rainfall) on morbidity.

Materials and methods: A total of 492 observations were analyzed. The data were complete and reliable. Statistical analysis was performed using the Kruskal-Wallis test and various regression models (linear, quadratic, exponential, and composite).

Results: morbidity levels were low in winter, gradually increased in spring, peaked in summer, and declined gradually in autumn. Rising temperature contributed to an exponential increase in morbidity, while higher rainfall reduced it. The linear model indicated that seasonal variation accounted for 95.5 % of the changes in morbidity.

Conclusion: The study allows effective planning of epidemiological monitoring and preventive measures and confirms the significant impact of seasonal factors on morbidity.

29-39 75
Abstract

Introduction. Acute kidney injury in childhood is an actual issue due to its multiple causes, severity, and high risk of progression to chronic kidney disease. We can see that there is growing evidence of аcute kidney injury among children, because it is associated with high morbidity and mortality. It is a common condition in pediatric intensive care units, varying from 10 % to 35 % of cases. Recently, this problem has become increasingly important not only medically but also socially.

Objective: To study the incidence of аcute kidney injury and its clinical and laboratory manifestations in children aged 1 to 17 years.

Methods and Materials: This single-center retrospective study included 56 children aged 1 to 17 years with established acute kidney injury. The analysis was conducted using pediatric inpatient records from the Nephrology Department and the Intensive Care Unit of Children's City Clinical Hospital No. 2 in Almaty, from January 2022 to December 2023.

Results. Acute kidney injury in 56 children was classified according to KDIGO (2012) as stage 0 in 17.8 % (10), stage 1 in 30.5 % (17), stage 2 in 12.5 % (7), and stage 3 in 39.2 % (22). The following main clinical and laboratory manifestations of acute kidney injury were identified: edema syndrome (37.5 %), predominantly localized to the lower extremities (62 %); hypertension syndrome (35.7 %); increased creatinine; decreased glomerular filtration rate; hyperazotemia; increased C-reactive protein; proteinuria; and leukocyturia.

Conclusions. For the early detection of acute kidney injury and timely assessment of the severity of children's condition, it is recommended to use the Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes classification (2012). Children who have had an episode of acute kidney injury stages 1, 2, and 3 should be considered at group risk for developing chronic kidney disease.

40-52 64
Abstract

The development of safe and effective anti-inflammatory dosage forms for children is one of the most important areas of modern pharmaceutical science. Among nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, meloxicam is among the most commonly used substances in clinical practice.

Objective. To study the preclinical toxicity and anti-inflammatory activity of meloxicam tablets for children (coated, prolonged effects, special dose).

Methods and materials: acute toxicity in animals was determined, as well as an assessment of specific pharmacological activity in models of histamine-induced and carrageenan aseptic inflammation.

Study results: The study showed that Meloxicam tablets for children are non-toxic and have greater anti-inflammatory activity than the comparison drug.

The study on the specific activity of Meloxicam 3.75 mg tablets for children + cyanocobalamin 0.002 mg demonstrated their high anti-inflammatory activity in experimental aseptic inflammation models. This indicates an increased anti-inflammatory effect of meloxicam when combined with cyanocobalamin.

Conclusion: the results showed that the anti–inflammatory activity of the studied drug, meloxicam children’s tablets, is higher than that of the comparative drug meloxicam.

53-66 49
Abstract

Introduction. Ischemic heart disease is one of the leading causes of mortality worldwide, highlighting the importance of implementing accessible and non-invasive screening tools at the population level. This study aimed to assess the feasibility of using heart rate variability parameters obtained from a wearable photoplethysmography-based device to evaluate the risk of ischemic heart disease.

Materials and methods. A finger-worn IoT device called «Zhurek» was developed, based on photoplethysmography technology and capable of calculating real-time heart rate variability indices. The measurements obtained from «Zhurek» were compared with data from three‑lead Holter electrocardiographic monitoring, and machine learning algorithms were applied to datasets collected from angiographically confirmed patients and healthy volunteers.

Results. The deviations between the new device measurements and Holter electrocardiography remained within clinically acceptable limits; heart rate variability parameters, particularly low-frequency power, and patient age were identified as key diagnostic indicators for detecting ischemic heart disease.

Conclusion. The «Zhurek» device is suitable for large-scale ischemic heart disease risk stratification and may facilitate a shift in healthcare from a reactive, symptom-driven approach to a proactive, prevention-oriented model.

67-78 31
Abstract

Introduction. In the development of implants for osteosynthesis, specialists increasingly use mathematical (computer) modeling to biomechanically justify the advantages, strength characteristics, and reliability of implants in practical applications. Mathematical modeling enables the extraction of the maximum useful information to ensure the mechanical compatibility of the implant.

Objective. To study the stress-strain state in the biomechanical systems «clavicle – hook-shaped plate» and «clavicle – hook-shaped plate – lavsan tape» using the finite-element method using the KOMPAS-3D (APM FEM) program and Autodesk Inventor PR.Materials and methods. The article presents the results of the mathematical justification of the restoration of the acromioclavicular joint by a new combined method (Patent for invention RK No. 36128 dated 03.03.2023 «Combined method for restoring the acromioclavicular joint»).

Results. The finite-element method using the KOMPAS-3D (APM FEM) program and Autodesk Inventor PR was used to perform a mathematical analysis of the stress-strain state under the influence of excessive loads in the biomechanical systems «clavicle – hook plate» and «clavicle – hook plate – lavsan tape». An averaged virtual stereolithographic 3D computer model of the clavicle and scapula (STL model) was developed to implement the task.

The finite element analysis showed that the new combined method reduces equivalent stresses from 8.16 to 4.19 Mpa, decreases the displacement of the hook from 1.5 to 0.03 mm, and increases the minimum safety margin from 1.74 to 1.93.

Conclusion. The conducted biomechanical studies revealed the advantages of the new method for restoring the acromioclavicular joint over the classical method of splinting using a hook-shaped plate. The new method reduces stress at the points of interaction between the hook of the hook-shaped plate and the acromial process of the scapula by 1.9 times, decreases the displacement of the hook by 50 times, and increases the safety margin for 1 min.

79-92 84
Abstract

Introduction. Premature mortality is often used as an indicator of health system performance. Health authorities track it to identify gaps, prioritize public health measures, and inform policies. In Kazakhstan, premature mortality has not been comprehensively analyzed.

Objective. To examine the dynamics and structure of premature mortality in the Republic of Kazakhstan for the period 2014-2021, assessing gender differences, leading causes of death, and changes based on age-standardized indicators.

Materials and methods. The analysis of premature mortality indicators was conducted using data from the S. Kairbekova National Scientific Center for Health Development for the period 2014–2021, with consideration of sex and causes of death in accordance with the International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision. All cases were grouped into four main categories: non-communicable diseases, communicable diseases, maternal and neonatal causes, and injuries. Age groups ranged from 0-4 to 70-74 years. To ensure comparability, age-standardized mortality rates based on the OECD 2015 standard population were applied. Statistical data analysis was performed using Microsoft Excel and SPSS.

Results. From 2014 to 2021, premature mortality rates in Kazakhstan fluctuated, declining in most areas until 2019, followed by a sharp increase in 2020 and 2021, particularly due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Premature mortality from NCDs declined until 2019, but increased in 2020 and 2021. Mortality from communicable diseases and maternal and neonatal mortality decreased until 2019, then increased due to the pandemic. Injury-related mortality fluctuated, rising sharply in 2018 and again in 2020. Absolute changes show a decrease in mortality from communicable diseases, maternal and neonatal diseases, and NCDs, with an increase in mortality from injuries. Total premature mortality decreased by 49 %.

Conclusion. From 2014 to 2021, Kazakhstan saw evolving patterns in premature mortality, with men consistently demonstrating higher premature mortality rates, especially from communicable diseases, NCDs, and injuries. Despite improvements in healthcare, significant gender disparities in premature mortality rates persist. Addressing these issues requires comprehensive strategies that focus on improving healthcare access, promoting healthier lifestyles, addressing social determinants, and implementing gender-sensitive policies to reduce inequalities.

93-102 46
Abstract

Identifying and assessing the level of anxiety in medical workers is one of the important goals, since the psycho-emotional state of a person affects their productivity and accuracy at work. There are currently many tools in the world that assess anxiety. One of such tools is the Spielberger Anxiety and Personality Disorders Questionnaire. This questionnaire is among the most widely used tools worldwide, but there is no validated Kazakh version adapted for medical workers.

Objective: To culturally and linguistically adapt and validate the translated version of the Spielberger Anxiety Inventory for the Kazakh-speaking medical staff.

Methods and materials: 51 respondents aged 25-45 participated in this cross-sectional study. The questionnaire was translated into Kazakh by an experienced bilingual specialist, and after adaptation, its internal consistency, similarity to the original, and reliability in the Kazakh version were assessed. Construct validity was checked using factor analysis.

Results: Cronbach’s alphas for the situational and personality anxiety sections were 0.946 and 0.892, respectively, indicating very good internal consistency for the method. Factor analysis revealed a two-factor structure that corresponds to the original model, confirming its adequacy.

Conclusions: The Kazakh version of the Spielberger Anxiety Assessment Method demonstrated high reliability and validity. This validated questionnaire version demonstrated its suitability as a self-assessment tool for anxiety among healthcare workers.

103-119 107
Abstract

Introduction.The growth of antibiotic resistance poses a threat to the global health system and is increasing interest in antimicrobial potentiators. Iodine-based compounds are characterized by low resistance to bacteria and a broad spectrum of action. For their use at the industrial level, it is important to scale up the technology and obtain a stable quality product.

Research objective. To conduct the process of scaling up an iodine-based antimicrobial pharmaceutical substance in pilot production conditions, optimize technological parameters and evaluate the quality and stability characteristics of the finished product.

Research materials and methods. The study was conducted in the pilot production and laboratories of the JSC « Scientific Center for Anti-Infective Drugs». A substance containing iodine, potassium iodide, starch, polyvinyl alcohol and neutral salts was prepared. Physicochemical analyses (pH, density, quantitative composition), microbiological purity and 12-month stability tests were conducted. Three production batches were prepared and the data were processed.

Results. The quality of the finished product met all regulatory requirements: iodine content 8.33–8.39 mg/ml, potassium iodide – 11.73-11.83 mg/ml, pH – 4.24-4.27, density – 1.062-1.063. Microbiological purity indicators fully comply with the requirements. During the study, important technological parameters were analyzed at the main stages of production (raw material measurement, mixing, hydrolysis, obtaining the finished product, quality control, packaging and labeling).

Conclusion. The results obtained during the scaling-up of an iodine-based antimicrobial substance are an important scientific and technological base that will allow this substance to be introduced into industrial production. The scaled-up technology allows for the production of high-quality, stable and safe products. As a result of scaling up from the laboratory level to the pilot production site, the critical parameters for the production of an iodine-based antimicrobial potentiator were identified and the technological conditions were optimized. The results obtained will serve as the basis for introducing the pharmaceutical substance into industrial production and will contribute to meeting its growing demand.

REVEWS

120-136 47
Abstract

Introduction. This literature review focuses on modern methods for assessing cardiovascular risk using photoplethysmography and heart rate variability. Non-invasive approaches to assessing vascular wall health, arterial stiffness, heart rate, and microcirculation are discussed, along with their relationships with cardiovascular risk factors.

Objective: To analyze the potential of photoplethysmography as a non-invasive method for early detection of cardiovascular risk and to justify the need for its more widespread use in clinical practice.

Materials and methods: A search of international and domestic sources on methods for assessing heart rate variability and photoplethysmography was conducted across PubMed, Google Scholar, the Cochrane Library, Scopus Preview, eLibrary, and Cyberleninka databases. The search period was 10 years.

Results and discussion. The review revealed the potential of photoplethysmography and heart rate variability as informative digital markers that can reflect subclinical vascular changes and predict cardiovascular events. However, existing limitations are highlighted: the need for standardized signal recording protocols, variability in data quality, limited data on long-term clinical outcomes, and limited external validation of the models. The presented data support the need for further prospective studies, improved signal quality, the development of interpretable AI models, and the integration of photoplethysmography/heart rate variability with other biomarkers for a comprehensive assessment of cardiovascular health.

Conclusions. The literature review demonstrates that photoplethysmography is a promising, accessible, non-invasive method for early assessment of cardiovascular health. Photoplethysmography signal analysis allows for the detection of arterial stiffness, vascular tone, and other early subclinical changes associated with сardiovascular diseases risk. However, despite its high potential, the clinical application of this method is limited by the lack of standardized protocols, device heterogeneity, variability in data quality, insufficient clinical validation, and the predominance of cross-sectional studies without long-term outcomes.

137-148 58
Abstract

Introduction. Tick-borne infections caused by Borrelia belonging to the Lyme borreliosis groups (B. burgdorferi sensu lato) and relapsing fevers, which include B. miyamotoi.

Objective. To develop a standard case definition for tick-borne relapsing fever, for differential diagnosis with infections with similar clinical manifestations, and for the general medical community to understand their clinical manifestations and laboratory features.

Materials and methods. We analyzed the clinical and epidemiological manifestations of confirmed cases of tick-borne relapsing fevers according to the literature, conducted a polymerase chain reaction study of 521 ticks collected from vegetation and 54 ticks removed from bitten individuals and the bitten themselves in dynamics, and analyzed 42 febrile patients using the immunochip method. The polymerase chain reaction was positive in 27/521 (5.2 %) and 1/54 (1.9 %) ticks, respectively. Of the 61 patient samples, 8.2 % (5/61) were positive for antibiotics targeting various Borrelia antigens.

Results. We used the definitions of suspected, probable, and confirmed cases, developed based on the literature, and identified cases of tick-borne relapsing fever that corresponded to the standard definitions.

Conclusions. Thus, tick-borne relapsing fevers are common among the group of fevers of unknown etiology and among people bitten by ticks, although this infection is not included in official registration and, accordingly, there is no epidemiological surveillance. To increase awareness and alertness among medical professionals, we have developed a standard definition of the case of tick-borne borreliosis relapsing fever, which, along with the developed laboratory diagnostic protocol, needs to be widely implemented in the system of tick-borne infection surveillance in the regions of the Republic of Kazakhstan.

149-163 46
Abstract

Introduction. Down syndrome, or trisomy 21, is one of the most common genetic disorders and is caused by the presence of an additional copy of chromosome 21. Its prevalence is estimated at approximately 1 case per 750-1000 live births.

Objective. To analyze current data on the characteristics and prevalence of dental diseases in children with Down syndrome.

Materials and Methods. A systematic literature search was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and eLIBRARY databases, as well as in materials from the World Health Organization, the American Dental Association, and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. The search was performed using the keywords Down syndrome, children, oral health, periodontal disease, dental defects, and their synonyms. The review included publications from 2010 to 2025 in English and Russian. Studies focusing on the oral health status of children with Down syndrome, the prevalence of dental diseases, risk factors, and the characteristics of prevention and treatment were included.

Results. Analysis of publications from 2010 to 2025 showed that a high prevalence of periodontal diseases and frequent craniofacial anomalies characterizes dental pathology in children with Down syndrome. The prevalence of dental caries in this group is reported inconsistently and varies significantly across studies. The studies also indicate that oral health status is associated with morphological features, immune system alterations, and oral hygiene levels.

Conclusions. Children with Down syndrome have an increased risk of dental diseases due to a combination of anatomical and physiological features, immune system disorders, and behavioral factors. The most common pathologies are caries and periodontal diseases, which require early diagnosis and prevention. The effectiveness of preventive measures is ensured by the use of chlorhexidine and adapted toothbrushes. International guidelines emphasize the need for individualized care, frequent dental visits, and coordination with other specialists. Limited confidence of dentists and the lack of specialized care remain the major obstacles. An integrated approach, including educational programs and standardized protocols, can improve the dental health and quality of life of children with Down syndrome.

164-179 57
Abstract

Introduction. The article analyzes modern innovative approaches to the preservation and improvement of women’s reproductive health in the Republic of Kazakhstan and worldwide. The authors aimed to provide a scientific justification for the role of medical, digital, and organizational-social innovations in increasing the effectiveness of the reproductive health care system, and to identify priority directions for their further development in the context of demographic and medico-social challenges.

Objective. To analyze modern innovative approaches to protecting and improving women’s reproductive health in the Republic of Kazakhstan and global practice, and to identify priority areas for their development.

Materials and Methods. The research materials include official statistical data and analytical reports from the World Health Organization and UNFPA, regulatory and legal documents, state programs of the Republic of Kazakhstan, and the results of domestic and international scientific studies in reproductive medicine. The study employs methods of systemic and comparative analysis, the generalization of scientific data, and content analysis of national and international reproductive health protection strategies.

Results. The study demonstrated that the implementation of integrated primary health care models, screening and preventive programs, telemedicine, assisted reproductive technologies, and digital educational platforms contributes to improved accessibility and quality of medical care, early identification of risk factors, reduction of maternal and perinatal mortality, and the formation of responsible reproductive behavior among women and young people.

Conclusion. Further development of the women’s reproductive health care system requires expanding scientifically grounded and personalized approaches, improving prognostic and screening programs, fostering interdisciplinary cooperation, and sustainable state support for innovative solutions aimed at preserving reproductive potential and ensuring the demographic sustainability of the Republic of Kazakhstan.



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ISSN 2790-1289 (Print)
ISSN 2790-1297 (Online)