Search Results (4,665)

Background and Objectives: This study aimed to investigate whether neutrophil percentage-to-albumin ratio (NPAR) levels on admission have prognostic significance regarding one-year major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (MACCEs) in non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) patients. Materials and Methods: A total of 464 patients aged 59.2 ± 11.6 years constituted the cohort of this retrospectively designed study. Considering a 1-year follow-up period, the patients were divided into two groups: those with MACCEs and those without. The complete blood count, serum C-reactive protein and serum albumin levels were measured at admission. The NPAR, C-reactive protein/albumin ratio (CAR) and systemic immune-inflammation (SII) index were calculated for all patients, and the associations of these inflammatory-based biomarkers with 1-year MACCEs were evaluated. Results: During the 12-month follow-up period, MACCEs were observed in 75 (16.2%) patients, of which 35 (7.5%) patients died. The patients with MACCEs had higher CRP (p < 0.001), a higher percentage of neutrophils (p < 0.001), lower albumin levels (p < 0.001), a higher CAR (p < 0.001), a higher SII index (p = 0.008) and a higher NPAR (p < 0.001). A high anatomical SxSI score, a high low-density lipoprotein cholesterol level, hypoalbuminemia, high neutrophil counts, a high NPAR level and a high CAR level were independent predictors for one-year MACCEs (all p < 0.05). The NPAR (area under the curve [AUC] = 0.775, p < 0.001) and albumin level (AUC = 0.708, p < 0.001) had better and sufficient discriminatory power and predictive accuracy in determining one-year MACCEs, when compared to the neutrophil (AUC = 0.693, p < 0.001), CAR (AUC = 0.639, p < 0.001) and SII index (AUC = 0.660, p < 0.001), in terms of the receiver operating characteristic curve. The DeLong test revealed that the predictive performance of the NPAR was superior to that of the other inflammatory parameters. In particular, individuals with an NPAR value greater than 17.6 were at greater risk of developing MACCEs (p < 0.001). Conclusions: The NPAR can be used as a newly identified promising inflammatory biomarker to predict one-year MACCEs in NSTEMI patients undergoing revascularization therapy. Full article

Studies on radiosensitization of biological damage by O₂ began about a century ago and it remains one of the most significant subjects in radiobiology. It has been related to increased production of oxygen radicals and other reactive metabolites, but only recently to the action of the numerous low-energy electrons (LEEs: 0–30 eV) produced by ionizing radiation. We provide the first complete set of G-values (yields of specific products per energy deposited) for all conformational damages induced to plasmid DNA by LEEs (G_LEE (O₂)) and 1.5 keV X-rays (G_X(O₂)) under oxygen at atmospheric pressure. The experiments are performed in a chamber, under humidity levels ranging from 2.5 to 33 water molecules/base. Photoelectrons from 0 to 30 eV are produced by X-rays incident on a tantalum substrate covered with DNA. Damage yields are measured by electrophoresis as a function of X-ray fluence. The oxygen enhancement ratio G_LEE(O₂)/G_LEE(N₂), which lies around 2 for potentially lethal cluster lesions, is similar to that found with cells. The average ratio, G_LEE(O₂)/G_X(O₂), of 12 for cluster lesions and crosslinks strongly suggest that DNA damages that harm cells are much more likely to be created by LEEs than any other initial species generated by X-rays in the presence of O₂. Full article

Military breachers are routinely exposed to repetitive low-level blast overpressure, placing them at elevated risk for long-term neurological sequelae. Mounting evidence suggests that circulating brain-reactive autoantibodies, generated following CNS injury, may serve as both biomarkers of cumulative damage and drivers of secondary neuroinflammation. In this study, we compared circulating autoantibody profiles in military breachers (n = 18) with extensive blast exposure against unexposed military controls (n = 19). Using high-sensitivity immunoassays, we quantified IgG and IgM autoantibodies targeting glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), myelin basic protein (MBP), and pituitary (PIT) antigens. Breachers exhibited significantly elevated levels of anti-GFAP IgG (p < 0.001) and anti-PIT IgG (p < 0.001) compared to controls, while anti-MBP autoantibody levels remained unchanged. No significant differences were observed for any IgM autoantibody measurements. These patterns suggest that repetitive blast exposure induces a chronic, adaptive immune response rather than a short-lived acute phase. The elevated IgG autoantibodies highlight the vulnerability of astrocytes, myelin, and the hypothalamic–pituitary axis to ongoing immune-mediated injury following repeated blast insults, likely reflecting sustained blood–brain barrier disruption and neuroinflammatory processes. Our findings underscore the potential of CNS-targeted IgG autoantibodies as biomarkers of cumulative brain injury and immune dysregulation in blast-exposed populations. Further research is warranted to validate these markers in larger, more diverse cohorts, and to explore their utility in guiding interventions aimed at mitigating neuroinflammation, neuroendocrine dysfunction, and long-term neurodegenerative risks in military personnel and similarly exposed groups. Full article

The recently developed phenoplast-related polymer, poly(benzofuran-co-arylacetic acid), presents a versatile molecular structure containing lactone and carboxylic acid functionalities that offer significant flexibility in creating cured materials with tailored properties for diverse applications, wherein also the thermal conductivity is an important factor. This study analyses the possibility of forming amide moieties of poly(benzofuran-co-arylacetic acid) with diamines resulting in cross-linked products in order to control its thermal properties. The cross-linking process is achieved by utilizing three distinct diamines, 1,6-diaminohexane, p-xylylenediamine, and 4,7,10-trioxa-1,13-tridecanediamine, each possessing different degrees of polarity, flexibility, and reactivity. The resulting cross-linked zwitterionic poly(benzofuran-co-arylacetic acids) were structurally and morphologically characterized. By means of measuring the thermal conductivity and diffusivity of the materials, the possibility of adjusting the thermal properties of the cross-linked products by choosing appropriate linkers was determined. A case was developed where the thermal conductivity and diffusivity increased with temperature, a hardly found property in the cross-linking of polymers being important for many practical applications. Full article

The purpose of this research is to develop an advanced model to serve as a strategic tool for the Thailand government in managing the country and to propose ways for the government to exercise state power through proactive measures to address governance gaps and ensure long-term sustainability. This research employs a mixed-methods approach. The research methodology involved the following stages: (1) Quantitative research was conducted by creating the best model, which involved conducting path analysis based on an autoregressive integrated moving average with an exogenous variable model (PAARIMAX (1,1,1)). (2) The results of the quantitative research were optimized to facilitate additional qualitative research in order to identify appropriate ways of using state power for long-term sustainability in country management. The study’s findings suggest that the government will need to exercise its state power in the governance of the country through the development of a long-term national management plan (2024–2043). This plan involves the establishment of a new scenario policy wherein a minimum of 35% clean technology and green materials must be utilized within the economic sector. This is primarily due to their significant impact on environmental change. Furthermore, the government should exercise its state power to mandate an immediate reduction in energy consumption of 50%, achieved through the immediate adoption of renewable energy sources. This research utilized the results derived from the PAARIMAX model to conduct further qualitative analysis to fill the gaps, enhance the value of the quantitative research, and align it more effectively with the context of practical application. The study found that the proactive measures suggested by stakeholders must be implemented alongside the urgent establishment of new scenario policies, including for charges and taxes, subsidies and concession taxes, deposit refund systems, and property rights and market creation. Full article

Background: Consuming collagen hydrolysate (CH) may improve symptoms of exercise-induced muscle damage (EIMD); however, its acute effects have not been compared to dairy protein (DP), the most commonly consumed form of protein supplement. Therefore, this study compared the effects of CH and DP on recovery from EIMD. Methods: Thirty-three males consumed either CH (n = 11) or DP (n = 11), containing 25 g of protein, or an isoenergetic placebo (n = 11) immediately post-exercise and once daily for three days. Indices of EIMD were measured before and 30 min and 24, 48, and 72 h after 30 min of downhill running on a −15% slope at 80% of VO_2max speed. Results: Downhill running induced significant EIMD, with time effects (all p < 0.001) for the delayed onset of muscle soreness (visual analogue scale), countermovement jump height, isometric midthigh pull force, maximal voluntary isometric contraction force, running economy, and biomarkers of muscle damage (creatine kinase) and inflammation (interleukin-6, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein). However, no group or interaction effects (all p > 0.05) were observed for any of the outcome measures. Conclusions: These findings suggest that the post-exercise consumption of CH or DP does not improve indices of EIMD during the acute recovery period in recreationally active males. Full article

Background: Vitamin D and iron deficiencies are prevalent among Moroccan women of reproductive age (WRA). Research suggests that Vitamin D deficiency (VDD) may impair iron bioavailability, potentially leading to iron deficiency (ID) and anemia. Objectives: This study investigates associations between vitamin D status, iron levels, and anemia risk in WRA, aged 18–49, from Meknes, Morocco. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 463 participants, measuring serum 25(OH)D, blood count parameters, iron, ferritin, C-reactive protein, and creatinine. Lifestyle factors, including dietary intake, sun exposure, and physical activity, were assessed through validated questionnaires, and anthropometric data were collected. Linear and logistic regression models analyzed associations, while ROC analysis evaluated VDD’s predictive accuracy for ID and anemia. Results: VDD (25(OH)D < 20 ng/mL) was significantly associated with reduced hemoglobin, hematocrit, red blood cells, and ferritin (all p < 0.01), indicating vitamin D’s role in erythropoiesis and iron storage. Multivariate logistic regression showed that VDD increased the risk of anemia (OR: 7.17, 95% CI: 3.19–19.28, p < 0.001), ID (OR: 2.20, 95% CI: 1.32–3.77, p = 0.007), and IDA (OR: 4.10, 95% CI: 1.73–12.08, p = 0.004). Dietary iron intake was inadequate, showing minimal protective effects against anemia and ID (β(SE): −0.08(0.03), p = 0.030 and β(SE): −0.05(0.02), p = 0.037). Conclusions: VDD is a significant risk factor for impaired iron status and anemia in Moroccan WRA, highlighting the need for targeted nutritional interventions and further research. Full article

Well-defined amorphous/semi-crystalline statistical copolymers of n-dodecyl isocyanate, DDIC, and allyl isocyanate, ALIC, were synthesized via coordination polymerization using the chiral half-titanocene complex CpTiCl₂(O-(S)-2-Bu) as an initiator. In the frame of the terminal model, the monomer reactivity ratios of the statistical copolymers were calculated using both well-known linear graphical methods and the computer program COPOINT. The molecular and structural characteristics of the copolymers were also calculated. The thermal properties of these samples were studied by differential scanning calorimetry, DSC, measurements. The kinetics of the thermal decomposition of the statistical copolymers was studied by thermogravimetric analysis, TGA, and differential thermogravimetry, DTG, and the activation energy of this process was calculated by employing several theoretical models. Moreover, block copolymers with the structure P[DDIC-b-(DDIC-co-ALIC)] were synthesized by sequential addition of monomers and coordination polymerization methodologies. The samples were characterized by nuclear magnetic resonance, NMR, spectroscopy; size exclusion chromatography, SEC; and DSC. The thermal stability of the blocks was also studied by TGA and DTG and compared to the corresponding statistical copolymers, showing that the macromolecular architecture greatly affects the properties of the copolymers. A thiol-ene click post-polymerization reaction was performed to introduce aromatic groups along the polyisocyanate chain in order to improve the thermal stability of the parent polymers. Evidently, these statistical and block copolymers can be employed as precursors for the synthesis of novel polyisocyanate-based materials. Full article

Background: Chronic hypoperfusion is a risk factor for neurodegenerative diseases. However, the sequence of events driving ischemia-induced functional changes in a cell-specific manner is unclear. Methods: To address this gap in knowledge, we used the bilateral common carotid artery stenosis (BCAS) mouse model, and evaluated progressive functional changes to neurons, arterioles, astrocytes, and microglial cells at 14 and 28 days post-BCAS surgery. To assess the neuro-glio-vascular response to an acute ischemic insult, brain slices were superfused with low O₂ conditions. Using whole-cell patch-clamp electrophysiology, we measured basic membrane properties (e.g., resting membrane potential, capacitance, input resistance) in cortical pyramidal neurons. The activity of astrocytes was evaluated by monitoring Ca²⁺ from Aldh1l1-CreERT2; R26-lsl-GCaMP6f mice. Vascular reactivity to low O₂ from the BCAS mice was also assessed ex vivo. Results: Our data showed no changes to the basic membrane properties of cortical pyramidal neurons. On the other hand, astrocyte activity was characterized by a progressive increase in the resting Ca²⁺. Notably, at 14 and 28 days post-BCAS, there was an increased expression of anti-inflammatory-related markers (IL-10, S100A10, TRPA1, and Nrf2). These data suggest that, in young mice, BCAS-induced increases in resting Ca²⁺ were associated with the expression of neuroprotective signals. Contrary to observations in glial cells, vascular function was impaired post-BCAS surgery, as shown by a blunted vasodilatory response to low O₂ and the vasodilatory signal, adenosine. Conclusions: Together, these data suggest that, in young mice, BCAS leads to vascular dysfunction (e.g., impaired vasodilation in parenchymal arterioles), and in the absence of neuronal dysfunction, mild ischemia is associated with the activation of glial-derived neuroprotective signals. Full article

This study aimed to determine the extent to which explosive and reactive strength of the lower limbs, as well as acceleration in running and skating speed, predict figure skating competition results in youth skaters. Talented figure skaters aged 8 to 16 years (n = 211) were divided into two groups: Group 1 (basic novice; age: 10.38 ± 1.10 yrs., height: 1.3889 ± 0.07.26 m, weight: 32.75 ± 4.63 kg) and Group 2 (advanced novice and junior; age: 13.02 ± 1.06 yrs., height: 1.527 ± 0.0818 m, weight: 42.73 ± 7.62 kg). Fifteen variables of physical fitness were measured using tests such as repeated vertical jump, standing long jump, triple jump (right/left leg), 15 m running sprint, and 15 m skating sprint. The competition results were recorded according to the International Skating Union Code of Points. The principal component analysis reduced the fifteen variables to four principal components, explaining 84–87% of the variance. Linear regression models showed that these components significantly explained the variability in the competition scores for both groups. For Group 1, R² ranged from 0.298 to 0.425, while for Group 2, it ranged from 0.086 to 0.237. Pearson’s R was higher for the mean best score of the season than for the National Championship score. The relative importance of these factors varied across age groups. These findings highlight the need for tailored on- and off-ice training that focuses on locomotion and acceleration for younger skaters and dynamic jump training for older skaters. Full article

Background/Objectives: Hypertriglyceridaemia and systemic inflammation are prevalent in patients with schizophrenia and contribute to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Although elevated triglycerides (TGs) and remnant cholesterol are linked to inflammation in the general population and individuals with metabolic syndrome, whether they are associated in patients with schizophrenia remains unclear. Methods: Fasting levels of TG, cholesterol (total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and remnant cholesterol)), and markers of systemic inflammation including high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP), leukocyte counts and their differentials (neutrophils, monocytes and lymphocytes) were determined in 147 patients diagnosed with schizophrenia on long-term antipsychotic regimens and compared with 56 age- and sex-matched healthy controls. Apolipoprotein B and glycosylation of acute phase reactant (GlycA) signatures were assessed by NMR. Circulating cytokine levels were measured by a cytokine/chemokine multiplex assay. Results: Patients with schizophrenia had markedly elevated TG and remnant cholesterol relative to controls and had evidence of systemic inflammation with increased circulating hsCRP, GlycA, leukocyte, neutrophil counts and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR). Unexpectedly TG and remnant cholesterol did not correlate with systemic inflammatory markers in patients with schizophrenia, and differences in inflammatory markers between controls and patients persisted after adjusting for the lipid profile. Interleukin (IL)-10 levels were increased in patients with schizophrenia, suggesting an anti-inflammatory signature. Conclusions: The discordance between TG, remnant cholesterol and systemic inflammation in patients with schizophrenia suggests these are likely independent contributors to cardiovascular risk in this population. Full article

The addition of phase modulation function technology to thermal power units is one of the most effective measures to solve dynamic reactive power shortages in the construction process of new power systems. In this paper, the influence of the phase modulation function transformation of thermal power units on the stability of a new power system is studied. Firstly, the new power system stability index is deeply analyzed, and an evaluation system for power system transient stability is constructed from five key dimensions: transient voltage, static voltage, power angle stability, power flow characteristics, and grid support. Secondly, a fuzzy comprehensive evaluation method considering the subjective and objective comprehensive weights is proposed, and the influence of the phase modulation transformation of the thermal power unit on the stability of the receiving-end power grid is quantitatively analyzed. Finally, a CEPRI36 node example model was built based on the PSASP v.7.91.04.9258 (China Electric Power Research Institute, Beijing, China) platform to verify the accuracy and effectiveness of the proposed method. The results show that the proposed method can quantitatively analyze the impact of adding a phase modulation function to thermal power units on the stability of the power system. At the point of renewable energy connection, the static voltage stability index improved by 42.9%, the transient power angle stability index improved by 32.1%, the multi-feed effective short-circuit ratio index improved by 33.9%, and the comprehensive evaluation score improved by 14.7%. These results further indicate that adding a phase modulation function to thermal power units can provide a large amount of dynamic reactive power support and improve the voltage stability and operational flexibility of the system. Full article

The design of novel anti-inflammatory drugs remains a critical area of research in the development of effective treatments for inflammatory diseases. In this study, a series of 1,2-benzothiazine was evaluated through a multifaceted approach. In particular, we investigated the potential interactions of the potential drugs with lipid bilayers, an important consideration for membrane permeability and overall pharmacokinetics. In addition, we evaluated their ability to inhibit cyclooxygenase 1 and cyclooxygenase 2 activity and selectivity using both a cyclooxygenase inhibition assay and molecular docking simulations. To evaluate their therapeutic potential, we performed in vitro assays to measure cytokine mRNA expression in inflamed cells. The antioxidant activity was evaluated using both in vitro assays, such as 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl and 2,2-azino-bis-3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid scavenging, to determine the compounds’ capacity to neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress. Theoretical calculations, including density functional theory, were used to predict the reactivity profiles of the compounds. Full article

The present study aimed to investigate and compare oxidative stress biomarkers and antioxidant enzyme activity in the serum of women at risk of developing preeclampsia (PE) to prevent adverse pregnancy outcomes through early intervention. Changes in soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFlt-1) and placental growth factor (PlGF) levels were measured between 11 and 13 gestational weeks (gw.) before the onset of preeclampsia and its associated complications. This study evaluated the feasibility of the sFlt-1/PlGF biomarker ratio in predicting preeclampsia and adverse pregnancy outcomes, with the goal of preventive therapy with acetylsalicylic acid (150 mg daily), with acetylsalicylic acid (75 mg daily) and Clampsilin. For this purpose, the following were evaluated: (1) the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS) as parameters of oxidative stress; (2) lipid oxidation; (3) antioxidant enzyme activity; and (4) cytokine production. Analysis of the results showed that pregnant women at risk of preeclampsia had significantly higher levels of ROS, lipid oxidation, and superoxide anion radical (•O₂⁻) levels compared to normal pregnancies. In PE, depleted levels of nitric oxide (NO), impaired NO synthase system (NOS), and reduced antioxidant enzyme activity (p < 0.03) suggest that PE patients cannot compensate for oxidative stress (OS). In conclusion, oxidative stress in PE plays a key role, which arises from placental problems and affects both mother and baby. The groups with acetylsalicylic acid therapy (150 mg and 75 mg) were better affected compared to those on Clampsillin. Full article

Porcine circovirus 3 (PCV3) is a small non-enveloped circovirus associated with porcine dermatitis and nephropathy syndrome (PDNS). It has occurred worldwide and poses a serious threat to the pig industry. However, there is no commercially available vaccine. PCV3 capsid protein (Cap) is an ideal antigen candidate for serodiagnosis. Here, a novel fully automated chemiluminescence enzyme immunoassay (CLEIA) was developed to detect antibodies (Abs) to Cap in porcine serum. Recombinant PCV3 Cap, self-assembled into virus-like particles (VLPs), was produced using baculovirus and coupled to magnetic particles (Cap-MPs) as carriers. Combined with an alkaline phosphatase (AP)–adamantane (AMPPD) system, Cap-Abs can be rapidly measured on a fully automated chemiluminescence analyzer. Under optimal conditions, a cut-off value of 31,508 was determined, with a diagnostic sensitivity of 96.8% and specificity of 97.3%. No cross-reactivity was observed with PCV1 and PCV2 and other common porcine pathogens, and both intra-assay and inter-assay coefficients were less than 5% and 10%, respectively. Prepared Cap-MPs can be stored at 4 °C for more than 6 months. Importantly, this CLEIA had a good agreement of 95.19% with the commercially available kit, demonstrating excellent analytical sensitivity and significantly reduced operating time and labor. A serological survey was then conducted, and showed that PCV3 continues to spread widely in South China. In conclusion, our CLEIA provides time and labor-saving, and a reliable tool for PCV3 epidemiological surveillance. Full article