Decrease In Stress Research Articles

Mechanical properties of N-Graphdiyne (C18N6) under tensile stress: a molecular dynamics study

ABSTRACT Carbon-nitrogen nanostructures hold outstanding promise for advancing technology across numerous fields. Their unique mechanical properties drive substantial experimental and theoretical research, aiming to unlock their full potential for practical applications. N-Graphdiyne (C18N6) is a carbon-nitrogen nanostructure derived by doping nitrogen atoms into Graphdiyne. This study explores the mechanical properties of C18N6 under tensile stress using molecular dynamics simulations. First, an investigation of C18N6's behaviour under different temperature gradients is presented. Next, defect density is applied to the structure to obtain more realistic properties. Finally, the characterisation extends to nanoribbons to explore the effect of size. Young's modulus, first failure stress and strain, and tensile toughness are reported under tensile stress. Results show that Young's modulus is approximately 14% larger in the Y direction than in the X direction at 300 K, and the failure stress decreases by about 37%, with a 0.05 drop in the value of failure strain due to defect density growth.

Modelling Atherosclerotic Plaque Cap Mechanics: Microcalcifications Reduce Mechanical Properties in Mesenchymal Stromal Cell-Based Model.

Rupture of atherosclerotic plaque caps is the cause of many disabling or lethal cardiovascular events, such as stroke and myocardial infarction. Microcalcifications (<50 µm) have been shown, in computational models, to affect the biomechanical stability of the cap. The current study aims to develop a tissue-engineered model of the atherosclerotic fibrous cap with microcalcifications produced by mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs). Human MSCs are seeded in fibrin gels and cultured for 2 weeks in medium supplemented with TGF-β1 to induce smooth muscle cell differentiation and collagenous matrix formation. Afterward, mineralizing medium stimulates microcalcification formation for an additional 4 weeks. Tissue-engineered structures are imaged after culture with second harmonic generation microscopy with a hydroxyapatite probe, showing collagenous matrix with microcalcifications. Mechanical characterization shows the effect of microcalcifications on global tissue mechanics, as the ultimate stress at rupture of the tissue is significantly lower compared to control tissues. The amount of calcification, determined by histological analysis, is correlated to the decrease in ultimate tensile stress, with a higher amount of microcalcification resulting in weakened mechanical properties. The developed tissue-engineered plaque cap model with biologically formed collagenous matrix and microcalcifications offers valuable insight into the impact of microcalcifications on biomechanical stability.

Research on assembly stress and deformation of thin-walled composite material power cabin fairings

Abstract As a critical component of a helicopter, the issue of assembly continuity deviation between the fairing and adjacent components during the assembly process can significantly impact flight stability and safety. The traditional fairing assembly process typically emphasizes basic alignment and fixation, often neglecting an analysis of the factors that influence its shape and performance characteristics. This study simulates the fairing assembly model under various working conditions to investigate stress distribution and deformation characteristics. The goal is to identify the primary factors that lead to changes in the shape and performance of the fairing and to summarize the overall stiffness distribution of the fairing. To ensure the accuracy of the constructed finite-element model of the fairing, experiments were initially designed to determine the intrinsic parameters of the fairing composites. This process aimed to obtain key data, such as the elastic modulus and Poisson’s ratio. Following this, a mechanical plate loading test simulating equivalent cutting of the fairing was conducted, and a corresponding simulation model was developed using ABAQUS software. By comparing the results from the tests and simulations of the mechanical plate, the feasibility of applying the determined intrinsic parameters to the fairing finite-element model was effectively validated. Subsequently, a three-dimensional model of the fairing was created in CATIA software and imported into ABAQUS for analytical modeling, allowing for the simulation and analysis of the fairing’s force conditions under various constraints. The results indicate that the overall stiffness of the fairing is influenced by fixed-boundary constraints and external forces. Additionally, the stress experienced by the fairing is negatively correlated with the width of the fixed-boundary constraints; as the width increases, the stress decreases continuously. This decrease is more pronounced in the initial stages and gradually slows down in later stages. Specifically, the stress decreases by as much as 79.25% within the constraint width range of 10–20 mm, while the reduction slows to 46.2% in the 60–80 mm range. The shape and performance of the fairing are influenced by various factors, with displacement load and clamping distance being the primary determinants. The effects of these two factors on fairing stress vary dynamically with changing working conditions. Notably, under different clamping distances, a significant linear relationship exists between displacement load and deformation. For instance, at a clamping distance of 200 mm, the difference between adjacent deformations stabilizes at 0.516 mm, with a relative deviation strictly controlled within ±3%. When the clamping distances are increased to 600 and 1,000 mm, the dispersion of the deformation increments relative to their mean values remains low, with the ratio of the standard deviation to the mean value being 2.5 and 2%, respectively.

Finite element analysis of biomechanical effects of continuous versus interval pedicle screw configurations in scoliosis correction and optimization of dual-geometry screw design

Purpose To optimize scoliosis correction strategies by comparing continuous and interval pedicle screw configurations and proposing a dual-geometry screw design. Methods A patient-specific T11-L5 scoliotic spine model was reconstructed via finite element analysis (FEA). Continuous and interval screw placements were evaluated for biomechanical performance. A novel dual-geometry screw (tapered-cylindrical transition) was developed. Results Continuous configurations achieved a 43.5% reduction in displacement (1.33 mm vs. 2.36 mm) and a 29.7% decrease in screw stress (444.08 MPa vs. 631.35 MPa). The dual-geometry screw lowered drilling stress (16.5%, p < 0.05) and displacement heterogeneity (22.4%). Conclusion Continuous screws enhance stability through synergistic load transfer, while dual-geometry screws mitigate interfacial damage. This provides biomechanical criteria for clinical scoliosis correction.

Effects of soluble epoxide hydrolase inhibition on liver injury and gut microbiota in mice chronically fed ethanol.

Alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD) is a significant global health concern, with limited effective treatments currently available. Targeting a specific pathway of polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) metabolism, in which beneficial FA-derived compounds, known as epoxy fatty acids (EpFAs), are rapidly converted into less active or inactive metabolites by the enzyme, soluble epoxide hydrolase (s-EH), has shown promise in treating various pathological conditions. In this study, the s-EH inhibitor, t-TUCB, was tested for its efficacy in attenuating liver damage induced by chronic ethanol (EtOH) consumption in an animal model that mimics early-stage ALD in humans. C57BL6/J male mice were fed an EtOH-containing diet with or without t-TUCB for 8 weeks. Liver steatosis, inflammation, and injury were evaluated. Fecal 16S rRNA sequencing was performed to examine the impact of s-EH inhibition on the gut microbiota composition. EtOH-induced liver injury was attenuated in t-TUCB-treated mice, with a notable decrease in endoplasmic reticulum stress, hepatocyte cell death, and proinflammatory cytokine expression. There was no effect of t-TUCB on EtOH-induced hepatic steatosis. t-TUCB treatment shifted the liver lipid profile, increasing several EpFAs, such as 17,18-EpETE and 19,20-EpDPA. These EpFAs decreased apoptosis and LPS-induced expression of proinflammatory cytokines invitro. t-TUCB treatment significantly increased Akkermansia muciniphila, a species known for its beneficial properties, in control but not in EtOH-fed mice. The EtOH-induced increase in bacteria taxa previously associated with liver injury, including the Peptostreptococcaceae family and the species, Alistipes massieliensis, was reduced in t-TUCB-treated mice. Our data demonstrate the beneficial effects of t-TUCB treatment on chronic EtOH-induced liver injury and gut microbiota imbalances, in turn, promoting liver health. These findings suggest that pharmacologic s-EH inhibition may serve as a promising strategy for reducing liver injury in ALD.

Development of new chocolate formulations by incorporating spray-dried and liposomal encapsulates of ground ivy (Glechoma hederaceaL.) polyphenolic extract.

Development of new chocolate formulations by incorporating spray-dried and liposomal encapsulates of ground ivy (Glechoma hederaceaL.) polyphenolic extract.

Numerical analysis of heat transfer and hemodynamics in inhibition of stent restenosis by high intensity focused ultrasound hyperthermia.

Numerical analysis of heat transfer and hemodynamics in inhibition of stent restenosis by high intensity focused ultrasound hyperthermia.

Disentangling the effects of acute stress on affiliation and prosociality.

Disentangling the effects of acute stress on affiliation and prosociality.

The effect of pressure angle on the wear behavior of asymmetric gears

The asymmetric gear design incorporates an enlarged drive side pressure angle in the involute profile to effectively mitigate contact pressure during gear meshing, whereas the coast side profile adopts a reduced pressure angle configuration to minimize potential failure risks. However, the wear behavior of asymmetric gears has not been thoroughly explored. In this study, the finite element (FE) wear models for asymmetric gears based on Archard wear theory and a UMESHMOTION subroutine based on commercial software ABAQUS were utilized to investigate the wear behavior of asymmetric gears. The adaptive mesh technique was applied during the simulation. The results indicate that, as the drive side pressure angle increases, both the von Mises stress and contact pressure decrease. In addition, the increased pressure angle leads to a reduction in the tooth surface slip distance and an expansion of the gear contact area, which results in a decrease in the gear surface wear rate. When the pressure angle increases from 18° to 24°, the maximum wear rate exhibits a substantial reduction from 1.66 × 10 −6 mm/cycle to 0.80 × 10 −6 mm/cycle, representing a 51.8% decrease in wear rate magnitude.

Продуктивні показники, активність травних та антиоксидантних ферментів коропа (Cyprinus carpio Linnaeus, 1758) у результаті використання інуліну в складі низькопоживних кормів

Purpose. To evaluate the effect and outline the prospects for adding inulin to the low-nutrient diet of carp in accordance with productive parameters, activity of digestive tract enzymes and the antioxidant defense system. Methodology. Experimental feeding of carp was carried out for 20 days at the laboratory complex of the fish farm «Karpatskyi Vodogray» LLC, Pustomyty, Lviv region. A control and two experimental groups of fish were created, which were kept in identical optimal conditions. Two 200 dm3 tanks were used, each of which contained 20 age-1+ carps with an average initial weight of 64.5 g. Carps of the control group (Control) were fed with a feed mixture with a protein content of 15%. Feed inulin in the amount of 0.2 (Experiment 1) and 0.4% (Experiment 2) was added to the feed of the experimental groups of fish. At the end of the experimental feeding, the selected fish were analyzed for productive parameters, antioxidant and digestive enzyme activity using methods generally accepted in aquaculture. Findings. The studies showed higher values of morphometric parameters of carps in the experimental groups compared to the control group, which is consistent with productive parameters. The average weight after rearing in Experiment 1 was 14.44% higher than in the control, in Experiment 2 – by 3.84%. The condition factor in the control group was 2.90, in the experimental 2.92 and 2.64, respectively. The relative weight gain of fish in the control group was 6.58%, and it was higher in the experimental group – 9.69 and 7.16%. A tendency to increase the activity of the enzyme link of the antioxidant defense system of superoxide dismutase by 6.06 (Experiment 1) and 7.13% (Experiment 2) was detected in the liver. At the same time, lower levels of lipid peroxidation products were found: diene conjugates – by 11.46 and 50.70%; TBA-active products – by 3.85 and 16.55%, respectively, that may indicate a decrease in oxidative stress. The addition of the prebiotic supplement to the diet of age-1+ carp did not cause pathological processes in the functioning of intestinal tract enzymes. An increase in the activity of alkaline phosphatase by 3.03% in Experiment 1 and twice (p &lt; 0.01) in Experiment 2 relative to the control, as well as a slight decrease in the activity of α-amylase, was found, which may indicate adaptation to the new diet. Originality. Based on a comprehensive ana­lysis of the productive parameters and functional state of the carp body, the prospects for the use of the prebiotic inulin in low-nutrient feeds were investigated for the first time. Practical Value. The study is aimed at obtaining results to determine the effectiveness of the use of inulin in carp feeding as part of low-nutrient feeds. The practical use of the knowledge gained outlines the possibility of optimizing the production of fish when introducing resource-saving technologies in aquaculture. Keywords: carp, feed additives, prebiotic, productive parameters, functional state of the body, resource-saving technologies in aquaculture.

The Controlling Effect of Emotional Intelligence in the Relationship between Job Stress and Job Satisfaction of Skin Care Office Workers

In modern society, the skin care industry has become an important service field that provides not only the external beauty of customers but also psychological satisfaction and well-being. Accordingly, skin care office workers are required to have a high level of service spirit and emotional labor through close face-to-face contact with customers, which can have a great influence on job stress and job satisfaction. This study is a study on the moderating effect of emotional intelligence in the relationship between job stress and job satisfaction of skin care office workers, and the results of a survey of 177 people using mobile devices are as follows. As a result of analysis to find out the effect of job stress of skin care office workers on job satisfaction, it was found that it had an effect on job satisfaction. As a sequel to analyzing the moderating effect of understanding other people’s emotions on the effect of job stress on job satisfaction of skin care office workers, it was found that internal and external stresses statistically affect job satisfaction. As a consequence analyzing the moderating effect of self-emotional understanding on the effect of job stress on job satisfaction of skin care office workers, it was found that internal and external stresses statistically affect job satisfaction. As a result of analysis to find out the moderating effect of emotional control on the effect of job stress on job satisfaction of skin care office workers, it was found that internal and external stresses statistically affect job satisfaction. Summarizing the above research results, it can be seen that job stress decreases and job satisfaction increases according to emotional intelligence, which is an emotion control.

Evaluation of the transportation of kisspeptins through a blood-brain barrier after intranasal administration

Background. The family of peptides encoded by the kiss1 gene - kisspeptins, is one of the new unstudied families in terms of efficiency and intranasal delivery. Kisspeptins are involved not only in reproductive function, but also in behavioral, emotional and cognitive reactions. The efficiency of kisspeptin delivery to the central nervous system will open up new prospects for their use. Aim. To evaluate the efficiency of kisspeptin-10 during transportation across the BBB after intranasal administration. Materials and methods. Forty-five outbred mice were used in the study. Animals received kisspeptin-10 intranasally at doses of 0.1, 1 and 10 μg; kisspeptin-10 at doses of 1, 10, 100 μg intraperitoneally. Animal behavior was studied using the open field, elevated plus maze and sexual motivation tests. Results. In the present study, stable and dose-dependent effects of kisspeptin-10 on the behavior of rats after intranasal administration were obtained. Intranasal kisspeptin-10 caused a reliable increase in sexual motivation, an increase in horizontal and vertical motor activity, a decrease in stress and an increase in exploratory activity in sexually mature male rats. The greatest changes in behavior were caused by a dosage of 10 μg, exerting a central effect on the brain after intranasal administration compared to groups of animals after intraperitoneal administration. While the indices after intraperitoneal administration of kisspeptin-10 practically did not cause changes in behavior at doses of 1 and 10 μg. Increasing the dosage to 100 μg intraperitoneally showed a reliable change in behavior, but not as strong as after intranasal administration of the substance in an amount of 10 μg. Conclusion. For a reliable change in behavior with the intranasal route of administration, concentrations 10 times lower than with peripheral administration were required. Based on the apparent effects of kisspeptin-10 after intranasal administration in each test, it can be assumed that kisspeptin-10 penetrated the brain, bypassing the BBB and exerted a central effect. The data support the potential and significance of this method of substance delivery to the CNS.

Yoga in the NICU for Parents: A Pilot Study on Reducing Stress in the NICU.

Explore the effect of a 6-week online program of yogic breathing, meditation, and gentle postures for parents of infants hospitalized in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).From October 2021 to October 2023, we conducted a two-center pilot study of yoga for NICU parents. We assigned consented parents of NICU inpatients to receive yoga classes (YG) and/or usual care (UC) for parent support within 14 days of admission to the NICU. Self-directed yoga sessions were completed using an online platform. UC included parental support as practiced in each NICU and served as a control group. Primary outcomes were assessed at the study entrance, midpoint, and conclusion using the Parental Stressor Scale: Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (PSS: NICU) and the Postpartum Bonding Questionnaire (PBQ) in English and Spanish.A total of n = 51 parents (71%) mothers, were allocated using parallel assignment to UC (n = 28, 55%) or YG (n = 23, 45%). A total of n = 39 (76%) parents completed the classes to the midpoint of the study and n = 33 (65%) completed all 6 weeks of the study. There were no differences in baseline characteristics for parents or infants between groups. Average participation in the online yoga materials was 3 hours and 45 minutes per parent. A significant decrease in NICU-related parent stress emerged for all PSS: NICU subscales and total PSS: NICU scores for parents assigned to YG between enrollment and the midpoint of the study. Neither parents in UC nor YG approached thresholds indicating disorders of the parent-infant relationship as assessed by the PBQ.When initiated early, an online, asynchronous yoga intervention designed for parents may reduce NICU parent stress. · Yoga may reduce stress and enhance emotional health for parents of critically ill newborns.. · Virtual and self-directed mindfulness interventions for parents are feasible in the NICU environment.. · Sustaining parental wellness over an extended NICU hospitalization is challenging..

RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN LEISURE PARTICIPATION AND EDUCATIONAL STRESS IN SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between leisure participation and educational stress in secondary school students. The study sample consist of 367 participants, 214 boys and 153 girls, studying at four different secondary schools. The selection of the participants was made with purposeful sampling method. Data collection tools involved a personal information form and “Educational Stress Scale (ESS)”. The ANOVA results indicated a significant difference in the “Workload”, “Despondency”, “Worry about grades” and “Self-expectation” sub-dimensions of ESS by gender. According to the MANOVA results, there was no significant difference in frequency of participation in leisure activities on the sub-dimensions of ESS. A significant difference was found the effect of participating in country*in-school activities in the “Pressure from study” and “Despondency” sub-dimensions of ESS. As the findings were assessed as a whole, it was concluded that as the frequency of secondary school students’ participation in leisure activities increases, their educational stress decreases.

1548-P: Carnosine-Mediated Amelioration of Inflammation in Type 2 Diabetes

Introduction and Objective: The critical role of innate immune activation leading to inflammatory events in the body has become of much interest and investigation in recent times because of its strategic importance in diabetes pathophysiology. Therefore, therapeutic targeting of innate immune activation may provide a new approach to treatment/management of diabetes. Carnosine is a physiological dipeptide consisting of β-alanine and L-histidine with emerging anti-diabetic potential. We investigated anti-inflammatory actions of carnosine in mitigating macrophage activation and glucolipotoxicity-mediated inflammation in pancreatic β-cells. Methods: Macrophages derived from human monocytes were exposed to LPS/IFNγ media supplemented with or without carnosine for 24 hrs. Cytokines were quantified in the cell supernatants using Bio-Plex Pro Human17-plex Assay. Cellular oxidative level was also measured. Additionally, pancreatic β-cells were exposed to glucolipotoxic (GLT) levels of glucose, palmitic and oleic acids supplemented with or without carnosine for 5 days. Expression level of key proteins in macrophage activation pathways and pro-inflammatory regulation in pancreatic β-cells were also investigated. Results: Carnosine suppressed both LPS/IFNy-mediated macrophage activation and GLT-induced inflammation in β-cells with evident decrease in nuclear localization of NF-κΒ. In addition, carnosine blocked TNFR5/CD40 signaling pathways to mitigate inflammation in β-cells. Also, COX-2, STAT1 and TLR2 protein expression levels were all reduced by carnosine, with subsequent decrease in cellular oxidative stress. Importantly, carnosine significantly reduced the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (G-CSF, GM-CSF, IFN-γ, IL-1β, IL-4, IL-5, IL-6, IL-7, TNF-α, IL-17A, IL-12 and MCP-1) released from activated macrophages. Conclusion: This data provides evidence of strong anti-inflammatory potential of carnosine, which could be beneficial in the treatment/management of diabetes. Disclosure J.N. Awoke: None. S. Colombo: None. C. Sale: Research Support; Natural Alternatives International. M.D. Turner: None. Funding Commonwealth Scholarship Commission in the UK

Fluvoxamine Attenuates Liver Injury in Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Sepsis: Via Nrf2/HO-1 Pathway.

The search for new treatments for sepsis is a pivotal subject of survey owing to the high mortality of sepsis. Sepsis can cause serious injury to many vital organs, including the liver. This study investigated the potential therapeutic impacts of fluvoxamine (FLV) against liver injury in a lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced sepsis model. Thirty-two female Wistar Albino rats were divided into four equal groups: control, LPS (5 mg/kg, i.p., single dose), LPS + FLV(5 mg/kg, i.p., single dose+50 mg/kg, i.p., single dose, 30 min before LPS application) and FLV(50 mg/kg, i.p., single dose). Six hours after LPS application, blood and liver tissues were gathered under anesthesia for biochemical, histopathological, and immunohistochemical analyses. The RT-qPCR analyzed the mRNA expression of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), glycogen synthase kinase-3 (GSK3ß), kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1), and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1). LPS administration caused significant histopathological changes in the liver and increased oxidative stress. It increased the number of TNF-α, osteopontin (OPN), and serum amyloid A (SAA) immune positive cells associated with inflammation and decreased Nrf2, GSK3ß, Keap1, and HO-1 gene expressions associated with antioxidant defense. Additionally, serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) level significantly increased. In the LPS + FLV and FLV groups, improvement in histopathological findings and a significant decrease in oxidative stress were detected. TNF-α, OPN, and SAA expression decreased, and Nrf2, GSK3ß, Keap1, and HO-1 gene expressions increased. The decrease in serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and ALT was found to be significant only in the FLV group. Our findings therefore provide new evidence that FLV reduces LPS-induced liver injury.

970-P: Perspectives from Caregivers of Older Adults with Insulin-Treated Diabetes Regarding Remote CGM Education and Support

Introduction and Objective: Despite proven benefits of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) in older adults with insulin-treated diabetes, adoption remains suboptimal. While caregivers are integral to technology adoption in this population, their experiences are poorly characterized. The REST (Readiness, Education and Sustainability for CGM Technology adoption) study facilitates CGM adoption and sustained use in older adults through virtual education and support. We examined caregivers’ views in REST. Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with caregivers supporting older adults (≥65 years) with insulin-treated diabetes during CGM adoption through remote education. Interviews were analyzed using grounded theory methodology by independent coders using qualitative analysis software (MaxQDA). Results: Ten caregivers were interviewed (90% family member, 10% paid caregiver). All reported positive experiences with CGM, needing 2-4 weeks to adapt to this new technology. Analysis revealed 4 key themes: (1) technology use (60% reporting adoption challenges with alarm customization and socialization impact; 50% reporting sleep disruption); (2) safety monitoring (90% reported improved ability to track glucose patterns with perceived safety benefits during participants’ physical activity and sleep), (3) behavioral changes (70% noting perceived improved dietary awareness; 60% reporting perceived greater engagement in diabetes self-management by participants), and (4) care relationships (40% reported perceived increase in participant independence and decrease in caregiver stress). Conclusion: These data show that CGM adoption through remote education with caregiver engagement yields high satisfaction while improving perception of safety, care behaviors and relationships. Findings suggest benefits of CGM use for the caregivers of older adults with diabetes on complex insulin regimens, providing further support for the widespread use of this technology. Disclosure A. Adam: None. M. Savory: None. C. Slyne: None. H. Brabant: None. J.D. Bulger: None. N. Krakoff: None. S. Kasetti: None. C. Mahoney: None. M. Munshi: Advisory Panel; Abbott, Medtronic. Research Support; Dexcom, Inc. Advisory Panel; Sanofi. R.S. Weinstock: Research Support; Amgen Inc, Eli Lilly and Company, Tandem Diabetes Care, Inc, Diasome Pharmaceuticals, Insulet Corporation, MannKind Corporation, Dexcom, Inc. E. Toschi: Consultant; Vertex Pharmaceuticals Incorporated, Sequel Med Tech. Research Support; Dexcom, Inc. Funding This work is supported by funding from The Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust

Computational modeling of vacuum-assisted delivery: biomechanics of maternal soft tissues

Childbirth is a complex process influenced by physiological, mechanical, and hormonal factors. While natural vaginal delivery is the safest, it is not always feasible due to diverse circumstances. In such cases, assisted delivery techniques, such as vacuum-assisted delivery (VAD), may facilitate vaginal birth. However, this technique can be associated with a higher risk of maternal injuries, potentially resulting in long-term conditions such as pelvic organ prolapse or incontinence. This study investigates the biomechanical impact of VAD on maternal tissues, aiming to reduce these risks. A finite element model was developed to simulate VAD, incorporating maternal musculature, a deformable fetal head, and a vacuum cup. Twelve simulations were conducted, varying contraction durations, resting intervals, and the number of pulls required for fetal extraction. Results revealed that prolonged contraction durations, coupled with extended resting intervals, lead to a reduction in pelvic floor stress. Elevated stress levels were observed when fetal extraction involved two pulls, with an 8.43% decrease in maximum stress from two pulls to four. The peak stress recorded was 0.81 MPa during a 60-second contraction, followed by a 60-second rest period. These findings indicate that longer maneuvers may reduce trauma, as extended pulls allow muscles more time to relax and recover during both contraction and rest phases. Furthermore, an increased number of pulls extends the duration of the maneuver, facilitating fetal rotation and improved adjustment to the birth canal. This study offers crucial insights into the biomechanics of childbirth, providing clinicians with valuable information to enhance maternal outcomes and refine assisted delivery techniques.

Oxidative stress, senescence and mRNA decay in peripheral blood mononuclear cells of women with gestational diabetes mellitus-link to increased cardiovascular disease risk.

Women who develop gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) have a pancreatic β-cell defect that cannot compensate for the insulin resistance of pregnancy. The glucose intolerance may, in addition to direct effects, negatively impact lipid metabolism, promote vascular dysfunction and contribute to cardiovascular disease (CVD). We assessed associations between oxidative stress and senescence markers with indices of glucose and lipid metabolism in women developing GDM and with CVD risk after 5 years. The oxidative stress and senescence markers NRF2, GPX4, TERC, XRN1 and DCP2 were assessed in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP) and β-galactosidase in plasma, from healthy (n = 253) and women with GDM (n = 31) during pregnancy and at 5-year follow-up, from the STORK study. We investigated their associations with established markers of disease activity and later CVD. Plasma AOPP and β-galactosidase were increased early in pregnancy in women developing GDM later and associated with indices of glucose metabolism and TG/HDL-Cholesterol. RNA levels of transcripts involved in telomer maintenance and antioxidant responses were decreased in women with GDM during pregnancy and at follow-up. DCP2 and XRN1 expression were positively associated with β-cell function at all timepoints and with pulse wave velocity at 5-year follow-up in women with previous GDM. Markers of vascular oxidative stress and senescence are increased and correlate with indices of glucose and lipid metabolism early in pregnancy in women developing GDM. Cellular markers reflecting attenuated defence against oxidative stress and senescence decrease throughout pregnancy and at 5-year follow-up and correlate with aortic stiffness in women with previous GDM.

“Identifying Predictive Biomarkers of Oxidative Stress in COVID-19: The Role of Vitamin D, Calcium, and Vitamin E”

COVID-19 is a viral infection caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, amplifying global health complexities. An important part of the knowledge of the disease and ways to prevent it is the search for biomarkers for the assessment of the occurrence of oxidative stress in patients with COVID-19. Thus, the current review is concerned with the functionality of Vitamin D, Calcium, and Vitamin E as biomarkers to predict the level of oxidant strain in COVID patients. Vitamin D is proven to possess immunomodulatory and antioxidant functions, regulatory effects on the antioxidant enzyme, and cytokine inhibitory effects. Analyzing clinical trials suggests the association of low Vitamin D levels with higher coronavirus threat, hence the possibility of the vitamin as a biomarker of coronavirus advancement. Calcium is a biologically active ion that participates in many processes within a cell and contributes to oxidative stress regulation; in COVID-19 patients, their calcium balance becomes disrupted, with hypocalcemia being particularly ominous. Lastly, Vitamin E, which is a lipid-soluble, antioxidants strengthens cell membranes by eliminating free radicals and further regulates the immune system. Initial case-control research findings suggest that sufficient Vitamin E can enhance the clinical outcomes of COVID-19 patients because of the decrease in oxidative stress. This review concerns the current state of knowledge about these micronutrients, including their biochemistry and clinical data, and their potential applications in the treatment of COVID-19.