Hyperbaric oxygen in patients with ischemic stroke following cardiac surgery: a retrospective observational trial.

Hyperbaric oxygenation (HBO₂) involves breathing 100% oxygen under elevated ambient pressure in a hyperbaric chamber, thereby dissolving oxygen in the plasma. This results in an increase of arterial partial pressure of oxygen (pO₂). Though well established in experimental studies, HBO₂ treatment for ischemic stroke is still under discussion. From 2002-2014 HBO₂ (2.2 bar, 90 minutes one/day; average number per patient: 4.7) was applied in 49 consecutive patients (32 males, 17 females, mean age: 68.8 years, range 31.2 – 83.9) with acute neurological deficit following cardiac surgery (CABG 15; combined surgery 14; valve surgery 11; aneurysm repair 8;

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Vitamin C and Immune Function

Vitamin C is an essential micronutrient for humans, with pleiotropic functions related to its ability to donate electrons. It is a potent antioxidant and a cofactor for a family of biosynthetic and gene regulatory enzymes. Vitamin C contributes to immune defense by supporting various cellular functions of both the innate and adaptive immune system. Vitamin C supports epithelial barrier function against pathogens and promotes the oxidant scavenging activity of the skin, thereby potentially protecting against environmental oxidative stress.

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