Defensive Actions Research Articles

URBAN PLANNING AND VULNERABILITY IN SÃO FÉLIX DO XINGU

This paper investigates the topic “Urban Planning and Vulnerability in São Félix do Xingu: The Role of Civil Defense in Responding to Floods and Flash Floods.” The main objective is to identify the key urban planning practices discussed in the literature that can be applied to mitigate the impacts of hydrological disasters in São Félix do Xingu, in the Amazon region. A qualitative approach was used, focusing on a literature review, analyzing the interaction between urban planning policies and Civil Defense actions. The research considers studies published in the last ten years, focusing on tropical regions similar to the Amazon, and categorizes urban planning practices by geographic regions and their integration with Civil Defense. The main results highlight the need to strengthen coordination between Civil Defense and urban planning, as well as the importance of early warning systems and relocation strategies to reduce vulnerability. The comparative analysis revealed gaps in public policies and the need to adapt best practices to the local context. The study concludes that reducing the vulnerability of São Félix do Xingu requires an integrated approach between different sectors, strengthening urban infrastructure, and involving local communities. For future studies, it is suggested to conduct field research and develop local vulnerability and resilience indicators to support the formulation of more effective and contextualized public policies for the Amazon region.

Features of the use of throws in the section demonstration of applied technology hand-to-hand combat

Actuality. A characteristic feature of hand-to-hand combat is the technique demonstration section. Applied hand-to-hand combat fully corresponds to the specifics of solving operational tasks without and with the use of weapons by representatives of various military and law enforcement agencies. It is known that in certain types of martial arts, throwing is a means of achieving an advantage over an opponent, so these technical elements are often used to solve competitive or operational-service tasks. Athletes from hand-to-hand combat during competitive activities, as well as law enforcement officers during the performance of operative tasks quite often use throwing equipment. But, despite the similarity of technical performance, the use of throwing technique in the application section of hand-to-hand combat has its own characteristics. It is clear that the characteristics of hand- to-hand combat require new approaches to the construction of the training process of the combat direction, which differ from the classical types of martial arts. Research results. Competitive activity from the applied section of hand-to-hand combat fully corresponds to the specifics of solving operational-service tasks without and with the use of weapons by representatives of various power structures. Throwing technique is one of the main tools for solving a competitive task. The use of the throwing technique depends on the type of attack and has its own characteristics and patterns for effective execution. The most versatile throwing action is the rear leg throw. In certain types of threats: with a knife or a gun - the use of throwing techniques is impractical. Catching and reaching create conditions for the use of a large number of options for various throws, most of which are performed with the help of the body. Conclusions. It has been established that in hand-to-hand combat, throws are an important component of the technical arsenal for solving competitive tasks, both in the duel section and in the technique demonstration section, but the features of hand-to-hand combat do not create an opportunity to immediately throw the opponent, it is necessary to carry out preliminary offensive or defensive actions with a simultaneous reduction of the distance and by capturing or covering individual parts of the opponent's body or clothing. The main feature of the performance is maintaining balance in the rack position for further technical actions. The use of throws from certain classification groups depends on the type of attack. Threats in the form of captures and captures have the greatest variability for the use of throws, and a universal and effective means of using counterattacking actions (throws) from various types of attack from a practical point of view is the back step. In case of a threat with a knife or a gun, taking into account the specifics of this type of attack, the use of throwing techniques to repel the attack is impractical.

Analysis of Game Variables and Influence on Defensive Success in Elite Handball

Background: The analysis of defensive game variables in handball is essential to increase the performance of a team. Objectives: This study aimed to analyse defensive success based on the game variables and situational variables that predict defensive efficiency in elite handball. Methods: The sample was composed of 1925 competition units in the defensive phase. Data from 16 matches of the XXIII Men's Handball World Championship of 2013 were analysed. The dependent variable was the defensive efficiency in each unit, and the independent variables were defensive actions, zones of field, location of the shot, numerical situation, and duration of the defense. Data were obtained from the HandballTAS tool (Handball Tactic Analysis System). The collected data were analysed quantitatively through inferential statistics (independent sample t-test) with the assistance of SPSS 22.0. Results: The defenses analysed in which an offensive foul, a ball recovery or steal, a throw block and a passive play action were recorded, achieved defensive success. In the analysis of field areas, the greatest defensive efficiency was obtained in shots from zone 1, with 60%, and from zone 2, with 54%. The highest percentages of goalkeeper effectiveness correspond to the middle zone, and the central zone. The greatest defensive efficiency was obtained in a warning of passive play situation with 70% and in numerical superiority situation with 67%. Finally, in the analysis of the duration, the greatest defensive efficiency was obtained in the half defenses (26 ≤ 50 seconds) with 60%. Conclusion: This study serves to demonstrate which defensive game variables have the greatest influence on defensive efficiency. This aspect will serve to help the coach make decisions during a handball match and increase the probability of success in each defense.

Unleashing the cardioprotective potential of Ezetimibe against Doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity in Wistar rats: Targeting oxidative stress and NF-κB-mediated inflammation

Background Doxorubicin (DOX) is a potent antineoplastic agent used in treating various adult and pediatric cancers, but it tends to provoke dose-dependent cardiotoxicity. Ezetimibe (EZE), a cholesterol-lowering drug, has been reported to possess defensive actions against oxidative stress and inflammation, which are two of the main proposed mechanisms underlying the development of DOX-induced cardiotoxicity (DIC), hence, we aimed to inspect the possible protective effect of EZE against DIC in rats. Methods 24 adult male Wistar rats were allocated into four groups of six: control, DOX, 10 mg/kg EZE plus DOX and 20 mg/kg EZE plus DOX. At the end of the study, the experimental rats were anesthetized and blood samples were collected for biochemical analysis, after which the hearts were excised and heart tissue samples were obtained for biochemical and gene expression analyses. Results Pretreatment with EZE at a dose of 10 or 20 mg/kg alleviated cardiac damage induced by DOX, as EZE blunted the rise in serum levels of cardiac injury biomarkers, including cardiac troponin I (cTnI) and N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP). Additionally, pretreating rats with EZE at either dose mitigated DOX-induced oxidative stress by elevating the levels of the antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx), with consequent reduction in the lipid peroxidation biomarker malondialdehyde (MDA) in cardiac tissues. Furthermore, pretreatment with either dose of EZE hindered DOX-mediated inflammation, where EZE suppressed cardiac nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) signaling and negatively regulated the gene expression of its downstream proinflammatory cytokines, including tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) with either dose and interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) with the higher one. Conclusions Our findings indicate that EZE exhibited cardioprotection against DIC in rats, which makes EZE an interesting area for further investigations, animal- and human-wise, that can pave the way for a potential clinical application in preventing DIC in the future.

Predictors of goal difference and match outcome in Polish handball PGNiG Superleague in the season before, during and after the COVID-19 pandemic - regression analysis

ABSTRACT The aim of the study was to determine which technical and tactical actions are predictors of the goal difference and the outcome of the handball match in the seasons before, during, and after the COVID-19 pandemic. The study material is official statistics of the Polish PGNiG Superleague in 493 matches. Multivariate and logistic regression analysis was used to demonstrate predictive factors. The predictors of goal difference are the number and effectiveness of throws from 6, 7, and 9 metres, the number of fouls, fast breaks, and goalkeeper effectiveness. The biggest contributors are the effectiveness of the goalkeeper’s defence, the number of throws from the 6th metre, and the effectiveness of throws from 6th and 9th metres. The constant predictors of winning in all seasons are the number of throws from the 6th metre, the efficiency of throws from the 6th and 9th metres, and the efficiency of goalkeepers saves. The strongest predictor of winning in the pre-and post-pandemic seasons is playing matches at home. In the pandemic season, no such relationship was shown. In sports training, offensive and defensive actions involving the demonstrated predictors should be improved to increase their level and decrease it in opponents.

Obfuscation mechanism for simultaneous public event information release and private event information hiding in discrete event systems

In this paper, we study the problem of simultaneous public event information release and private event information hiding in discrete event systems modeled by partially observed non-deterministic finite automata, where the public and private event information is respectively defined as unobservable fault and secret events. The notion of D-C-compossibility is introduced to characterize whether a system simultaneously conceals the occurrences of secret events while releasing the occurrences of fault events. When such a property does not hold, we investigate its enforcement through a defensive function. This function takes each observable event of a system as input and generates a suitably modified event sequence at the system's output using event deletion, insertion, or substitution. Specifically, our focus is on prioritizing the concealment of the secret events while maximizing the detection of the fault events through the use of defensive functions. The notion of D-C-enforceability that refers to the capability of a defensive function to employ a strategy for manipulating observations of a system to enforce D-C-compossibility is proposed. That is, a D-C-enforcing defensive function ensures that all occurrences of fault events can be revealed while concealing all occurrences of secret events. A D-C-diagnoser construction is proposed to enumerate all feasible defensive actions following system behavior. By taking advantage of the D-C-diagnoser, we obtain a necessary and sufficient condition for D-C-enforceability, along with a corresponding obfuscation strategy for defensive functions.

Reinforcement learning in autonomous defense systems: Strategic applications and challenges

Reinforcement learning (RL) is one of the most progressive ways to improve the efficiency of drones and robotic systems in the context of the defense and security industries. In Anomaly Detection (AD) systems, this paper discusses the potential of RL as a Model Selection Criteria (MSC) method and its associated issues. RL algorithms enable such systems to adapt to and learn from interactions with their environment, optimizing their response to complex and dynamic threats. This way, new states may be introduced with better decision-making processes, improving the effectiveness of the operations and enabling Reinforcement learning -powered systems to learn new scenarios as well as perform detailed defensive actions in a real-time context. The importance of RL in national defense can therefore be said to lie in its capacities for changing how threats are identified, how threats are responded to, and even what strategies of defense are thought of. Self-governing systems that incorporate Reinforcement learning are capable of functioning in an unpredictable environment, evaluating threats correctly, and carrying out defensive measures with the help of people practically at all. This versatility is critical in modern warfare because a preferred option is the right response to threats that were unknown a few years ago. However, incorporating RL into autonomous defense systems is not without big challenges. Some important problem areas are improved stability and accuracy of RL algorithms in various and critical situations, the legal and practical consequences of autonomous decision-making and possible threats that can arise due to adversarial manipulation of learning algorithms. In addition, such systems have to be developed and put into practice under national and international standards to meet certain requirements and build confidence in such applications. This paper explores these strategic uses and issues and presents a detailed overview of how RL can improve independent defense functionalities, as well as the significant problems relating to this approach. Thus, by providing case studies and theoretical analysis, it aims to demonstrate that RL has the potential to define the technological development of defense and benefit national security systems in the context of a growing threat.

Neuroethology: A Review of Studies on Combat Behavior in Mice

Optogenetics has revolutionized neuroscience, enabling precise control and monitoring of neural circuits. This study focuses on the neural mechanisms underlying combat behaviors in mice, particularly the roles of the ventromedial hypothalamus (VMH) in freezing, jumping escape, and defensive attack behaviors. The research employed a combination of optogenetic tools, behavioral assays, and high-resolution imaging techniques. Genetically modified mice expressing channelrhodopsin-2 (ChR2) and halorhodopsin (NpHR) were used. Viral vectors were injected into specific brain regions, and optogenetic stimulation was performed to activate or inhibit neuronal populations. Behavioral responses were documented and analyzed using specialized software, and brain tissues were prepared for histological examination. Activation of VMH neurons increased jumping escape behavior, while inhibition reduced defensive attack behaviors, highlighting the VMH's critical role in these responses. High-resolution video analysis provided detailed metrics on behavior, and histological examination confirmed precise targeting and expression of optogenetic proteins in the brain. The results demonstrated the direct influence of specific neural circuits on combat behaviors. The study elucidated the roles of VMH and associated neural circuits in mediating combat behaviors in mice. Optogenetic techniques provided precise control over neuronal activity, revealing critical insights into the neural mechanisms underlying these behaviors. The findings support the VMH's central role in regulating instinctual defensive actions and offer potential applications for developing therapeutic strategies for anxiety and pain disorders.

Spatial Analysis and Trend Prediction of UN Climate Change News based on Proximization Theory

Climate change is a major global challenge. The United Nations plays a key role in conveying information on climate change. This study using Piotr Cap’s Proximization Theory analyzes UN News samples, focusing on the usage of Proximization Theory and how the United Nations constructs the threat of peripheral entities under the Proximization Theory. The UN’s reports predominantly employ spatial proximization, supplemented by temporal proximization, emphasizing climate change’s impact on people’s lives and urging immediate attention. Spatial proximization highlights the impact of human activities on the environment, urging urgency. Axiological proximization constructs positive and negative values, justifying defensive action. Temporal proximization focuses on imminent dangers, urging immediate response.

Differences in performance analysis between won and lost teams in the top handball matches in the seasons before, during, and after the COVID-19 pandemic.

The study aimed to try to determine whether there are differences in performance analysis in handball matches won and lost, in Pre-COVID-19, COVID-19, and Post-COVID-19 seasons, taking into account the venue of the match. The material was the official statistics of 493 men's handball matches of PGNiG Superliga Ltd. For comparisons between independent variables, the Mann-Whitney U Test and the Kruskal-Wallis Test were used. A Chi-square Test was used to determine the distribution of the number of games won and lost. The analyses conducted indicate higher values in matches won than in matches lost (P=0.00) for the variables: numbers of goals scored, accurate throws, 6 meters goals, fast breaks, fast break goals, and throwing efficiency: all throws, 9 meters, 6 meters, and goalkeeper efficiency. In losing matches teams lost have a higher number of goals defeated (P=0.00) and executed a higher number of missed throws (P=0.00) than in winning matches Effect size of the differences is large. The results show a higher number of matches won in home matches than away in the Pre-COVID-19 season (P=0.0001). During the three seasons, the number of throws and goals from 9 meters decreases, while the number of goals from 6 meters increases. In sports training, measures should be taken to improve and increase the effectiveness of actions that affect winning the match. The results indicate the need to shape defensive actions that prevent goals from being scored in situations that differentiate the match's outcome.

Impact of implicit vs. explicit Instructions on tactical performance in under-20 soccer players.

This study aimed to verify whether implicit and explicit informational constraints generate differences in tactical performance and behavior in U-20 national-level soccer players. Thirty-two under-20 male athletes from two clubs participated. Four 4-a-side small-sided games (SSG) protocols were used: R1 - explicit rule for high-press marking, R2 - implicit rule for high-press marking, R3 - game with both previous rules simultaneous and FR - free game, without additional rules. SSGs comprised 4 vs. 4+ goalkeepers games on a 42 m × 29 m field. Position data from 10 Hz Global Positioning System (GPS) devices were used to evaluate individual and collective tactical behavior (spatial occupation metrics) and performance (interpersonal coordination). MANOVA was used for normally distributed variables, and Friedman's with Dunn or Bonferroni post hoc was used for variables without normal distribution. For SEI, an ANOVA was used with Bonferroni post hoc. The R1 protocol showed higher SEI, length, width, and LpWratio than the FR protocol (p = 0.009). There was an effect of the different protocols in SEI values (p < 0.001). Under the explicit rule, players also showed the highest in-phase interpersonal coordination values (p < 0.001). Providing players with explicit tactical instructions improves tactical performance acutely for high-pressing defensive actions.

In-game soccer outcome prediction with offline reinforcement learning

Predicting outcomes in soccer is crucial for various stakeholders, including teams, leagues, bettors, the betting industry, media, and fans. With advancements in computer vision, player tracking data has become abundant, leading to the development of sophisticated soccer analytics models. However, existing models often rely solely on spatiotemporal features derived from player tracking data, which may not fully capture the complexities of in-game dynamics. In this paper, we present an end-to-end system that leverages raw event and tracking data to predict both offensive and defensive actions, along with the optimal decision for each game scenario, based solely on historical game data. Our model incorporates the effectiveness of these actions to accurately predict win probabilities at every minute of the game. Experimental results demonstrate the effectiveness of our approach, achieving an accuracy of 87% in predicting offensive and defensive actions. Furthermore, our in-game outcome prediction model exhibits an error rate of 0.1, outperforming counterpart models and bookmakers’ odds.

Football Defensive Actions Development in Small-Sided and Conditioned Games With Offensive Goals

With the use of small-sided and conditioned games (SSCGs), non-linear pedagogy (NLP), which is based on the ecological dynamics approach, has arisen with the aim of fostering a holistic perspective and optimizing players’ tactical offensive and defensive behavior’s. Given the potential injury and health risks associated with insufficiently structured training, such as overtraining or inadequate tactical preparation, the implementation of evidence-based approaches like NLP is crucial. In this study, the indirect impacts of an NLP-based intervention program (task design based on tactical attack principles and assaulting team’s numerical advantage) were examined in decision-making (DM) and execution (Ex) in U14 football defense technical-tactical actions. Twelve training sessions, split over two phases—preintervention and intervention—involved eighteen players (aged U14). 600 defensive actions measured during competitive matches were examined using the Game Performance Evaluation Tool (GPET) tool. The results revealed significant gains in marking (to the player with the ball: DM, p = 0.001; Ex, p = 0.001; and to the player without the ball: DM, p = 0.039; Ex, p = 0.046), blocking (DM, p = 0.015), and help- coverage (Ex, p = 0.014) actions. The interception and tackle actions did not differ noticeably. According to the results of this study, the NLP approach provides a suitable theoretical framework for fostering the development of defensive tactical behavior in football. Not all acts, though, saw improvements. In order to build technical-tactical training processes based on the phases of the football game (offensive and defensive) and taking the level of opposition into consideration, trainers should design representative tasks.

Forecasting of functional readiness and construction of variable tactics of elite single combatants on the basis of assessment of psychophysiological state

The goal is to substantiate and experimentally verify the effectiveness of using the results of the tapping test to assess readiness for a match. Methodology: analysis and synthesis of data from modern scientific and scientific and methodical literature as well as Internet on the problem being studied, dynamic tapping testing, forecasting. Scientific novelty. The article provides new data on the generalization of the results of the informativeness and effectiveness of the assessment of the current psychophysiological state for predicting changes in the functional preparedness of elite single combatants and the possibility of forming strategies and tactics for future matches taking into account the individual dynamics of changes in the studied parameters of the tapping test. Conclusions. In the course of the conducted research and generalization of the obtained individual results, it was established that the state of "strength - weakness" is the limit of physical and mental capacity, i.e., the time during which excitement in the brain cells can be maintained during long-term actions of the enemy. It was also found that the most informative for monitoring the psychophysiological state and functional abilities of martial artists are the indicators of the maximum frequency of movements in 30 sec. When choosing the time of the examination, it is necessary to take into account that the dynamics of the pace of hand movements are affected by the peculiarities of not only the nervous system, but also the muscular system, therefore, in the presence of weak muscle development or during particularly long examinations, the presence of fatigue may affect the results. It is very important that tapping metrics allows you to determine: the level of the total amount of work performed, or the most favorable time for the match, an indicator of the level of activity of attacking and defensive actions for the entire period of the fight; a favorable time for carrying out a series of actions; stability of the battle; the speed of single action, and also simplifies the process of selection and selection of the national team for participation in competitions. The use of the method of controlling the psychophysiological state by conducting a tapping test to assess functional abilities optimizes the process of forming a strategy and tactics of fighting a match depending on the state and stability of the central nervous system of the wrestler.

Biological Significance of the Komodo Dragon's Tail (Varanus komodoensis, Varanidae).

The Komodo dragon is a unique reptile with an elongated tail that exhibits hitherto unknown adaptations and functions. This tail, composed of 60-86 vertebrae, serves diverse ecological and physiological roles. In juveniles, it is essential for an arboreal lifestyle and balance, while in adults, it functions as a tool for defense and offensive actions. It possesses characteristic haemal arches and a dorsal keel, along with well-developed muscles which enable precise tail control, influencing the Komodo dragon's maneuverability and directional changes. The tail stores adipose tissue, providing Komodo dragons with the ability to regulate body temperature and independence from other seasonal variations. The tail adipose tissue impacts numerous biochemical processes and may play a crucial role in the animals' metabolic strategies and reproductive capabilities. Its functions include providing essential mineral compounds for the organism, such as calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, iron, and zinc. Analysing the biochemical composition of tail fat is crucial for understanding the health of Komodo dragons.

ОСОБЛИВОСТІ ФУНКЦІОНУВАННЯ ПОЯСНОЇ СИСТЕМИ ОЦІНКИ РІВНЯ КВАЛІФІКАЦІЇ СПОРТСМЕНІВ У РІЗНИХ ВИДАХ СПОРТИВНИХ ЄДИНОБОРСТВ

Relevance of the research topic. Millions of people around the world engage in martial arts, and interest in this type of activity continues to grow. As you know, the goal of building any educational and training process in many types of sports is to achieve the maximum possible result in competitive activities. The existing system of knowledge regarding traditional approaches to building the training process in martial arts proves that in many types of duels there are two possible ways to achieve the desired result. One is the acquisition of championship titles by winning competitions, the other is the acquisition of qualification belts for the performance of certain complex technical actions: kata or tuli (certain connections from stances, movements, striking and defensive actions, as well as the technique of performing motor actions inherent in the respective species duels). First of all, the study of the peculiarities of the functioning of the belt system in various types of martial arts will significantly expand the range of knowledge, the possibilities of using the most effective means and methods for the construction of a modern system of martial arts training. The purpose of the study is to investigate the features of the functioning of the belt system for assessing the level of qualification of athletes in various types of martial arts. Methods. In accordance with the topic of the study, an analysis and generalization of the scientific and methodological literature of Ukrainian and foreign specialists was carried out, normative program documents of the most popular types of martial arts in the world (judo, karate, jiu-jitsu, taekwon-do) were studied. Research results. The belt system for assessing the level of qualification of athletes is inherent in many types of martial arts and is an effective alternative to competitive activities in the direction of obtaining the desired result. A large number of apprentice and master qualification degrees, gentle load regimes, the absence of extreme conditions, and the focus on perfect mastery of technical skills make it possible to practice martial arts for many years. Conclusions. According to modern ideas about the construction of a training system in various types of martial arts, for further effective existence as a tool for the development of mass sports, the belt system for evaluating the level of qualification of athletes needs immediate changes, the introduction of new modern technologies taking into account scientific achievements in the field of sports science.

Inclusion of Game-Based Stimulus During Flywheel Resistance Training Positively Influences Physical Performance in Handball Players

ABSTRACT Handball is a body-contact Olympic ball sport that is characterized by fast-paced defensive and offensive actions. Players must coordinate explosive movements (e.g. changing of direction) and handball-specific skills (e.g. passing). Maximizing performance requires a systematic approach to training that includes physical, psychological, technical, and tactical preparation. Purpose: The aim of this study is to determine the effects of movement-based (MOV; unspecific sport stimulus) or game-based (GAM; sport-specific stimulus) flywheel resistance training intervention in highly trained youth handball players. Method:Twenty-five highly trained youth male handball players completed two sessions per week of flywheel resistance training (MOV, n = 12; GAM, n = 13) over the 7-week intervention period. Change-of-direction tests (180º change-of-direction speed test of both legs and test) and handball-throwing test were conducted before and after the intervention. Results: Both groups significantly improved V-cut, and 180º Change-of-direction speed test performance (p < .05; d = 0.79–2.05). Notwithstanding, the GAM group demonstrated greater improvements in V-cut and COD180ASY compared with the MOV group (p < .05) with small effect. Handball throwing speed performance remained unchanged independently of training condition (p > .05). Conclusions: These findings provide further support for the training principle of “specificity” and highlight the importance of including a game-based training stimulus during resistance training. This is a key consideration for coaches wanting to enhance physical performance in youth handball players.

The Legality of the Defensive Measures Taken by the USA and the UK in Response to the Houthi Attacks

The article delves into the legality of defensive actions taken by the USA and the UK in response to the Houthi attacks in the Red Sea. Despite assertions that such actions are justified under the right to self-defence, legal ambiguities persist in international law. The authors argue that while attacks on merchant vessels by non-state actors may constitute armed aggression, clarity is lacking on whether they meet the criteria for self-defence. The USA and UK stress that attacks on their warships validate their defensive measures, framing them as necessary responses to significant threats. However, the authors contend that the principle of proportionality may have been disregarded, urging restraint in the use of force to safeguard ships while respecting Yemen’s sovereignty. The article underscores the need for a nuanced approach to assessing the legality and necessity of military actions in complex conflict scenarios.

Warm-up music and low-dose caffeine enhance the activity profile and psychophysiological responses during simulated combat in female taekwondo athletes

To assess the effects of warm-up music and low dose (3 mg·kg−1) of caffeine (CAF) on female taekwondo athlete’s activity profile and psychophysiological responses during simulated combat. In a double-blinded, randomized, crossover study, 16 female athletes participated in simulated combats under one control and 5 experimental conditions [i.e., CAF alone (CAF), placebo alone (PL), CAF with music (CAF + M), PL with music (PL + M), and no supplement with music (M)]. After warming-up, athletes rated their felt arousal (FAS). Mean (HRmean) and peak (HRpeak) heart rate values were determined for each combat. After fighting, athletes rated their perceived exertion (RPE), feeling scale (FS), FAS, and physical enjoyment (PACES). Time-motion and technical-tactical variables were analyzed. CAF + M induced shorter skip and pause time, while attack time increased compared to other conditions (p < 0.05). Moreover, CAF + M increased single attacks, combined attacks, counter-attacks (p < 0.001), and defensive actions (p < 0.05) than other conditions. HRmean and HRpeak were lower under CAF + M than other conditions (p < 0.05). Additionally, higher FAS post-combat, FS, and PACES were observed under CAF + M, while RPE was lower (except CAF condition) compared to the other conditions (p < 0.05.Using CAF with warm-up music may increase combat cadence and improve the psychological state in female athletes more effectively than either strategy alone.

Vernodalin Alleviates Cardiotoxicity and Inflammation in Isoproterenol-Mediated Myocardial Infarction through NF-κB/AMPK Signaling Pathways in Rats.

Myocardial infarction (MI) is the foremost cause of mortality in cardiovascular diseases. MI ultimately exacerbates cardiotoxicity due to the release of toxicity biomarkers and inflammatory infiltration. Vernodalin (VN) is a renowned cytotoxic sesquiterpene lactone that possesses antioxidant, anticancer, and anti-inflammatory properties. The cardioprotective mechanism of VN remains concealed. Hence, we explored the cardioprotective efficacy of VN on isoproterenol (ISO)- mediated MI and analyzed its underlying mechanism. Wistar albino rats were injected ISO (85 mg/kg bw) subcutaneously to induce MI to evaluate the cardioprotective potential of VN (10 mg/kg bw) by assessing heart weight/ body weight index, hemodynamic, toxicity enzymes, histopathology, inflammatory mediators, and signaling pathway. ISO enhanced heart weight/body weight index, cardiotoxicity enzymes, biomarkers, inflammation, and histopathological changes while reducing hemodynamic parameters and VEGF-B, AMPK, and eNOS signaling pathways. Treatment with VN could significantly (p<0.05) mitigate the heart weight/body weight index, cardiotoxicity enzymes, biomarkers, inflammatory cytokines, and histopathological changes while enhancing hemodynamic parameters and VEGF-B, AMPK, and eNOS signaling pathways. Collectively, our findings revealed that the VN ameliorated defensive action against MI and averted myocardial injury by reducing the NF-κB-mediated inflammatory pathways in rats. These findings established that VN expressively preserves the myocardium and employs anti-inflammatory actions by regulating NF-κB, VEGF-B, AMPK, and eNOS signaling pathways.