Group G2 Research Articles

Alterations in the spinal cord, trigeminal nerve ganglion, and infraorbital nerve through inducing compression of the dorsal horn region at the upper cervical cord in trigeminal neuralgia

BackgroundIdiopathic trigeminal neuralgia (TN) cases encountered frequently in daily practice indicate significant gaps that still need to be illuminated in the etiopathogenesis. In this study, a novel TN animal model was developed by compressing the dorsal horn (DH) of the upper cervical spinal cord. MethodsEighteen rabbits were equally divided into three groups, namely control (CG), sham (SG), and spinal cord compression (SCC) groups. External pressure was applied to the left side at the C3 level in the SCC group. Dorsal hemilaminectomy was performed in the SG, and the operative side was closed without compression. No procedure was implemented in the control group. Samples from the SC, TG, and ION were taken after seven days. For the histochemical staining, damage and axons with myelin were scored using Hematoxylin and Eosin and Toluidine Blue, respectively. Immunohistochemistry, nuclei, apoptotic index, astrocyte activity, microglial labeling, and CD11b were evaluated. ResultsMechanical allodynia was observed on the ipsilateral side in the SCC group. In addition, both the TG and ION were partially damaged from SC compression, which resulted in significant histopathological changes and increased the expression of all markers in both the SG and SCC groups compared to that in the CG. There was a notable increase in tissue damage, an increase in the number of apoptotic nuclei, an increase in the apoptotic index, an indication of astrocytic gliosis, and an upsurge in microglial cells. Significant increases were noted in the SG group, whereas more pronounced significant increases were observed in the SCC group. Transmission electron microscopy revealed myelin damage, mitochondrial disruption, and increased anchoring particles. Similar changes were observed to a lesser extent in the contralateral spinal cord. ConclusionIpsilateral trigeminal neuropathic pain was developed due to upper cervical SCC. The clinical finding is supported by immunohistochemical and ultrastructural changes. Thus, alterations in the DH due to compression of the upper cervical region should be considered as a potential cause of idiopathic TN.

Effects of different surface treatments on surface topography and bond strength in the repair of fiber-reinforced dentin composite.

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of different surface treatments on the repair bond strength between a fiber-reinforced dentin composite and a posterior composite. Forty fiber-reinforced dentin composite resin blocks (4 mm × 4 mm × 4 mm) were separated into eight groups (n = 5) according to the surface preparation methods: (G1) negative control group, (G2) adhesive application, (G3) 50% dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) application, (G4) 50% DMSO + adhesive application, (G5) 37% phosphoric acid etch + adhesive application, (G6) air abrasion + adhesive application, (G7) 37% phosphoric acid etch + 50% DMSO application + adhesive application, and (G8) air abrasion +50% DMSO application + adhesive application group. The composite surfaces were repaired in two layers with a posterior composite. Composite sticks were subjected to a micro tensile bond strength (μTBS) test. Fractured surfaces were evaluated using a stereomicroscope (×25). Short fiber-reinforced composite samples' surfaces were investigated by scanning electron microscope (SEM). Shapiro Wilk, one-way ANOVA, and Tukey HSD tests were used for statistical evaluation. The highest average (μTBS) values were observed in G8, whereas the lowest mean μTBS values were evident in the G1 group. Statistically significant μTBS values were found in all adhesive-applied groups when compared with the negative control group. Notably, the application of 50% DMSO without adhesive did not lead to a statistically significant increase in μTBS values. SEM images demonstrated that acid etching partially eliminated residues on the composite surface, while air abrasion had a detrimental effect on the integrity of fiber structures. In the repair of fiber-reinforced dentin composite with a posterior composite, adhesive application is an effective approach. The treatment of 50% DMSO without adhesive did not confer a statistically significant advantage, and the supplemental use of acid etch or air abrasion did not show an additional benefit compared to adhesive-only repairs. Adhesive application emerges as a potent and effective strategy for the repair of bur-roughened fiber-reinforced dentin composites. With its limitations, the study highlights the efficacy of adhesive-only repairs without the necessity for additional surface treatments.

Relationship between the Residual Cesium Body Contents and Individual Behaviors among Evacuees from Municipalities near the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant.

To support estimations of early individual internal doses to residents who suffered from the 2011 accident at the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant (FDNPP), we have sought to use whole-body counter (WBC) measurement results of subjects who lived in municipalities neighboring the FDNPP at the time of the accident. These WBC measurements started several months after the accident; the targeted radionuclides were 134Cs and 137Cs. Our previous study had analyzed the relationship between the residual Cs contents of individuals and evacuation behaviors in the period immediately after the accident for residents of Namie-town, one of the most radiologically affected municipalities. Those results suggested that the first major release event at the FDNPP on 12 March 2011 caused significant exposure, particularly to those who delayed evacuation on that day. The present study expanded its scope to include subjects from four towns neighboring the FDNPP (Namie, Futaba, Okuma, and Tomioka) to gather additional evidence of the exposure that took place on 12 March 2011. Additionally, we investigated the relationship between individual cesium doses and subjects' destinations following the largest release event on 15 March 2011. The study population was 1,145 adults. We first divided the subjects into two evacuation groups depending on the distance from the FDNPP and their evacuation whereabouts (25-km boundary) as of 15:00 on 12 March 2011: the G1 group (≥25 km) and the G2 group (<25 km). We further divided these two subject groups into seven subgroups based on the subjects' destinations as of 0:00 on 16 March 2011. Our four main findings are as follows. (1) The 137Cs detection rate was significantly different between the G1 and G2 groups of Namie-town and Futaba-town but not for those of Okuma-town and Tomioka-town. This result corresponds to the plume passage (flowing toward the northwest to the north) in the afternoon of 12 March 2011 and supports our previous study. (2) The upper-percentile committed effective doses (CEDs) of the G2 groups were higher than those of the G1 groups for all four towns, although the between-group difference varied with the town. The highest CEDs were found in the G2 group of Futaba-town, and the lowest CEDs were in the Namie-town G1 group: 0.16 mSv and 0.04 mSv at the 90th percentile, respectively. The CEDs for both the G1 and G2 groups were relatively high for Okuma-town and Tomioka-town compared to those of the G1 group of Namie-town, although the former subjects were expected to be less exposed on 12 March 2011 and then evacuated to remote places, as did the residents of the other towns. (3) The CEDs of the G1 subgroup that evacuated outside Fukushima Prefecture were extremely low, suggesting that these subjects were little exposed on both 12 and 15 March 2011. However, the CEDs of the same G1 subgroup were rather higher than those of the corresponding G2 subgroup for Futaba-town and Okuma-town. We thus speculate that the WBC measurements were likely to have been affected by the contamination occurring in the second-round temporary re-entry (except for the Namie-town residents). (4) The analyses of the Namie-town evacuees indicated that the area including the middle and northern parts of Fukushima Prefecture was relatively more affected by the major release event on 15 March 2011. In conclusion, the early cesium intake due to the FDNPP accident remained detectable in the WBC measurements of certain present subjects; however, further analyses of the available data are necessary for a full understanding of the WBC measurement results.

Factors influencing the accuracy and safety of preoperative computed tomography (CT)-guided soft hook-wire localization for pulmonary nodules: a comprehensive analysis.

The necessity of localization of pulmonary nodules lies in ensuring the ability to locate the nodule quickly and accurately during surgery, thereby improving the success rate of the operation. The accuracy and risk of preoperative localization of pulmonary nodules need further exploration. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate the factors of accuracy and safety of computed tomography (CT)-guided localization of pulmonary nodules using a flexible wire hook positioner. In this retrospective cross-sectional analysis, 281 patients with a single pulmonary nodule underwent video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) following localization with a soft hook-wire guided by CT scan from January 2021 to July 2022 at Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital. The patients underwent VATS to remove pulmonary nodules within 24 hours after localization. The demographic, pulmonary nodule, and technical factors were analyzed retrospectively. Univariate and multivariate analysis were used to analyze the identified factors that influence pulmonary nodule localization accuracy and complications. Localization was successfully performed in 280 patients, with only 1 patient being excluded due to a displaced positioner and the hook wire failing to enter the lung parenchyma as a result of pneumothorax. Out of the total cases, 191 (68.2%) were accurately positioned in group G0, whereas 89 cases (31.7%) were inaccurately positioned in group G1. Hemorrhage and self-limited hemoptysis were observed in 64 patients (22.8%), whereas pneumothorax was observed in 84 patients (29.9%). There were no serious complications such as air embolism or death. The accuracy of localization was found to be influenced by both the depth of pulmonary nodules [odds ratio (OR) =22.610, 95% confidence interval (CI): 10.351-49.391, P=0.001] and the depth of the needle used (OR =0.322, 95% CI: 0.136-0.765, P=0.010). Additionally, postoperative hemorrhage was found to be affected by several important factors, including the diameter (P=0.036) and depth of the nodule (P=0.011), as well as the thickness of the chest wall (P=0.043) and the depth of the needle used (P=0.005). The CT-guided flexible wire hook positioner has been found to be a safe and effective device for locating pulmonary nodules. The depth of pulmonary nodules and needle penetration are key factors affecting the accuracy of lung nodule localization under CT guidance and are important factors affecting postoperative bleeding.

Desempenho agronômico e estimativa da diversidade genética entre linhagens de soja baseada em caracteres quantitativos

ABSTRACT Although soybean is one of the most important agricultural commodities in the world, it has been losing genetic diversity in recent decades, due to the intense breeding process and reproduction method. Thus, the objective of this study was to evaluate the agronomic performance and estimate the genetic diversity among inbred lines, and identify promising crossings. A total of 66 soybean genotypes were evaluated, 61 of which were pre-commercial lines, and five commercial cultivars (AS3797, DESAFIO, M7110, M7739, M8210) as controls. The experimental design consisted of randomized blocks with three replicates. The distance matrix between the inbred lines was calculated by Mahalanobis distance and grouping by the unweighted pair group method with arithmetic mean (UPGMA). The maximum distance was 1,776.26 between cultivar M7110 and the G23 inbred line, and the minimum 1.50 between inbred lines G13 and G36, with an average distance of 364.40, demonstrating genetic diversity. The traits that contributed most to genetic divergence were number of days to flowering (66.7%) and physiological maturation (28.55%). Inbred lines G60 (higher grain yield), G51 and G33 (lower physiological maturation) and cultivar M7110 (greater divergence) stood out. Four groups were formed, with G1 having the highest grain yield and fewest days to flowering and physiological maturation. The indicated crossings are between G60, G57, CD2728, M7110, G33 and G32 (group G1) and G47 (group G4).

Clinico-radiological outcome of Arthroscopic Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction with Augmentation of Dehydrated Human Amnion Chorion Allograft Membrane using Peroneus Longus Autograft.

For many sportsmen, anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears are unfortunate but common injuries. Several growth factors, cytokine, chemokine, and protease inhibitors functions in stimulation of paracrine reactions in fibroblast, endothelial, and stem cells thereby promoting the tissue restorative processes. Augmented with dehydrated Human Amnion Chorion Membrane (dHACM) allograft reinforces the reconstructed ligament and aids in effective restoration. In this case control study 15 patients undertaking ACL reconstruction with tripled peroneus augmented dHACM (G1) were prospectively monitored up for a period of 8 months along with 15 control patients (G2) without dHACM augmentation. Clinical and radiological outcomes were analysed and assessed about effect of augmenting the peroneus longus graft using dHACM. Clinical analysis included pre-operative two, four, six, and eight months post-operative Tegnor-Lysholm score, and radiological analysis included the 6th month postoperative MRI signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) measurements by mean signal-value at femoral insertion, midsubstance and tibial insertion of ACL graft. Clinically, as a mean Lysholm score of all patients, they were revealed to be consecutively high in G1 than in Group 2 at four, six, and eight months. The signal-to-noise ratio from the MRI results showed majority having good healing in G1 group. Based on 6-month MRI, an effective ligamentization (SNR<75) was noticed in 53.33% of patients in the dHACM allograft enhanced group on comparison with 33% in the controls. The overall results show that the augmentation of dHACM allograft to ACL reconstruction yields in good patient outcomes at post-operative follow-up.

Changes in biochemical and sperm parameters of rats drinking energy drinks.

Tiger energy drink is used in this research to see the effect on serum lipid profile, liver enzymes, and kidney function, also observing changes in sperm parameters. Sixteen male rats were divided into four groups, each consisting of four rats. The control group was given water and rat feed, while groups 1, 2, and 3 were given water with Tiger energy drink (25%, 50%, and 75%, respectively) for eight weeks. The results showed that the effect of energy drinks on lipid profile decreased cholesterol, TG, and LDL, while there was a slight increase in HDL. Treatment with wild Tiger energy drink generally caused insignificant increases in GOT and GPT in both G2 and G3 groups as compared to the control. However, in the G1 group, GPT and GOT significantly increased. Accordingly, ALP concentration was significantly increased in all experimental groups compared to the control group. Sperm quality declined as the concentration of energy drinks consumed increased. The potential adverse effects of energy drinks, at their specific dosages, have been determined to include hepatic and renal impairment, as well as alterations in serum lipids. Additional research is required to investigate the specific mechanism by which energy drinks impact spermatogenesis, either through the modulation of endocrine hormones or other metabolic pathways.

Gonadotropin supplementation improved in vitro developmental capacity of Egyptian goat oocytes by modulating mitochondrial distribution and utilization

Goat production in Mediterranean countries is economically and socially significant. The study investigated the impact of hCG supplementation on the in vitro maturation, fertilization, and mitochondrial activity of goat oocytes. In total, 2356 good cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) were recovered from 476 freshly collected goat ovaries. Selected oocytes were incubated in IVM medium and supplemented with hCG at varying concentrations depending on the experimental group for 24 hours at 38.5 ° C, 5% CO2 and 95% humidity. The first group (G1) was allocated as a control group, while the G2 and G3 groups were supplemented with 10 and 20 IU/mL hCG, respectively. The maturation rate was calculated using Hoechst 33342 staining in addition to cumulus expansion and the first polar body extrusion rates. The fertilization rate was evaluated. Moreover, mitochondrial activity was assessed using Mito-Tracker fluorescent staining. The results indicated a higher rate (P≤0.05) of nuclear maturation in G3 (82.5%) than in G2 (65.9%) and the control group (64.8%). Furthermore, fertilization rate was significantly improved in G3 (18.7%) compared to G2 (10.6%) and the control group (9.5%). Notably, the percentage of diffuse patterns of mitochondrial distribution increased in G3 (73.3%) compared to G2 (13.3%) and the control group (6.7%). In the same trend, the fluorescent mitochondrial intensity was higher in G3 (95%) and G2 (89.2%) compared to the control group (79.9%). In conclusion, supplementing the IVM medium with 20 IU/mL of hCG improved goat oocytes' maturation and fertilization rates by modulating cytoplasmic distribution and promoting the utilization of oocyte mitochondria.

Establishing patterns in reducing fire-dangerous properties of sip panels fire-protected with reactive coating

An issue related to using SIP panels for building structures is to ensure their stability and durability during operation in wide ranges. Therefore, the object of research was the change in the properties of wood-polymer material in case of fire and its protection when applied with a reactive coating capable of forming a pinocoke layer under the influence of high temperature on the coating. It has been proven that in the process of thermal action on the fire-resistant coating, the heat insulation process of SIP panels involves the formation of soot-like products on the surface of the material. Thus, under the action of the radiation panel on the surface of the OSB sample, after 120 s of thermal exposure, the process of intensive formation of a layer of foam coke, which thermally insulated the wood-polymer material, began; instead, after the radiation panel was exposed to the fire-resistant polystyrene foam sample, the process of destruction began at a temperature of about 100 °C polystyrene foam. When determining the flammability of a fire-resistant SIP panel, it was established that the temperature of the flue gases during the tests was no more than 110 °C, the length of the damaged sample did not exceed 460 mm. At the same time, the mass loss did not exceed 200 g, and independent combustion of the SIP panel sample did not occur despite the high temperature. According to these data, the SIP panel, fire-resistant with a reaction coating, belongs to group G1 (low flammability) and is a non-flammable material. The practical significance is that the results were taken into account during the design of buildings from SIP panels. So, there are reasons to assert the possibility of targeted regulation of the fire protection processes of SIP panels through the use of reactive coatings capable of forming a protective layer on the surface of the material that inhibits the rate of heat transfer

Fatigue behavior investigation of artificial rock under cyclic loading by using discrete element method

In numerous engineering projects, such as tunnel construction, underground gas storage in caverns, and the impact of earthquakes, rock materials experience cyclic loading. However, the response of rock materials to cyclic loading, which may vary in terms of waveform, frequency, and amplitude, is not uniform. Consequently, comprehending the mechanical attributes and fatigue behavior of rocks holds significant importance in engineering designs. This study focuses on subjecting a collection of cylindrical concrete specimens, categorized into three groups with distinct mechanical properties, to both monotonic and cyclic loading within a laboratory environment. Three groups of cylindrical concrete samples with different mixing designs are prepared to evaluate the effect of the mechanical strength of the samples on the fatigue response of the rock. In such a way that: The first group (G1) with Uniaxial Compressive Strength (UCS): 19 MPa, the second group (G2) with (UCS): 49 MPa, and the third group (G3) with (UCS): 71 MPa. In addition, the discrete element method is utilized to simulate uniaxial cyclic compression tests under various loading conditions, such as monotonic and cyclic loading. The resulting fracture propagation patterns and geometries are then analyzed. Numerical and experimental results show that the cyclic uniaxial compressive strength, due to the presence of damage and fatigue phenomena, has decreased relative to the monotonic tests. Also the cyclic elastic modulus values (Ec) have decreased by 53 %, 25 %, and 11 % relative to the monotonic elastic modulus (Em) for the three groups of G1, G2, and G3, respectively. The Stress-life (S-N) model is used to express the fatigue behavior of rock, and the final equation for the S-N model is expressed.

Choosing the proper implant for extra-articular fractures of proximal phalanges: A study on 75 cases

IntroductionPhalangeal fractures are the most common fractures of the hand and in particular the proximal phalanx of the long fingers is the most involved. These fractures can ben conservatively managed but, when the fracture pattern is considered unstable, surgical treatment is recommended. However, there is no consensus in literature about the proper surgical option for extra-articular proximal phalanx fractures. Material and methodsWe compared clinical and radiographical results after treatment of 75 cases of extra-articular proximal phalanx fractures using three different surgical techniques: closed reduction and internal fixation (CRIF) with Kirschner wires (G1 group), open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) with plates and screws or lag screws (G2 group), and closed reduction and intramedullary screw fixation (CRIMEF)(G3 group). ResultsWe found no significant differences in term of union rate and time to fracture healing between the three groups. However, we found a significant reduction in time to return at work and in TAM at the final follow-up examination in G3 group (treated with CRIMEF) when compared with both G1 and G2. No differences in complications rate were found between three groups. DiscussionThe surgical variability in the management of extra-articular phalanx fractures create lacks on standard guide for treatment. ConclusionsIn conclusion, our results showed good clinical and radiographical results with all the three surgical options. However, the closed reduction and internal fixation with intramedullary screws (CRIMEF) seems to be better in terms of time to return to work and TAM at the final follow-up, probably due to good primary stability and little risk of soft tissue adherence development.

Study of Speech Recognition in Noise and Working Memory in Adults and Elderly with Normal Hearing.

Introduction In clinical practice, patients with the same degree and configuration of hearing loss, or even with normal audiometric thresholds, present substantially different performances in terms of speech perception. This probably happens because other factors, in addition to auditory sensitivity, interfere with speech perception. Thus, studies are needed to investigate the performance of listeners in unfavorable listening conditions to identify the processes that interfere in the speech perception of these subjects. Objective To verify the influence of age, temporal processing, and working memory on speech recognition in noise. Methods Thirty-eight adult and elderly individuals with normal hearing thresholds participated in the study. Participants were divided into two groups: The adult group (G1), composed of 10 individuals aged 21 to 33 years, and the elderly group (G2), with 28 participants aged 60 to 81 years. They underwent audiological assessment with the Portuguese Sentence List Test, Gaps-in-Noise test, Digit Span Memory test, Running Span Task, Corsi Block-Tapping test, and Visual Pattern test. Results The Running Span Task score proved to be a statistically significant predictor of the listening-in-noise variable. This result showed that the difference in performance between groups G1 and G2 in relation to listening in noise is due not only to aging, but also to changes in working memory. Conclusion The study showed that working memory is a predictor of listening performance in noise in individuals with normal hearing, and that this task can provide important information for investigation in individuals who have difficulty hearing in unfavorable environments.

Genetic diversity of G9, G3, G8 and G1 rotavirus group A strains circulating among children with acute gastroenteritis in Vietnam from 2016 to 2021

Rotavirus group A (RVA) is the most common cause of severe childhood diarrhea worldwide. The introduction of rotavirus vaccination programs has contributed to a reduction in hospitalizations and mortality caused by RVA. From 2016 to 2021, we conducted surveillance to monitor RVA prevalence and genotype distribution in Nam Dinh and Thua Thien Hue (TT Hue) provinces where a pilot Rotavin-M1 vaccine (Vietnam) implementation took place from 2017 to 2020. Out of 6626 stool samples, RVA was detected in 2164 (32.6%) by ELISA. RT-PCR using type-specific primers were used to determine the G and P genotypes of RVA-positive specimens. Whole genome sequences of a subset of 52 specimens randomly selected from 2016 to 2021 were mapped using next-generation sequencing. From 2016 to 2021, the G9, G3 and G8 strains dominated, with detected frequencies of 39%, 23%, and 19%, respectively; of which, the most common genotypes identified were G9P[8], G3P[8] and G8P[8]. G1 strains re-emerged in Nam Dinh and TT Hue (29.5% and 11.9%, respectively) from 2020 to 2021. G3 prevalence decreased from 74% to 20% in TT Hue and from 21% to 13% in Nam Dinh province between 2017 and 2021. The G3 strains consisted of 52% human typical G3 (hG3) and 47% equine-like G3 (eG3). Full genome analysis showed substantial diversity among the circulating G3 strains with different backgrounds relating to equine and feline viruses. G9 prevalence decreased sharply from 2016 to 2021 in both provinces. G8 strains peaked during 2019–2020 in Nam Dinh and TT Hue provinces (68% and 46%, respectively). Most G8 and G9 strains had no genetic differences over the surveillance period with very high nucleotide similarities of 99.2–99.9% and 99.1–99.7%, respectively. The G1 strains were not derived from the RVA vaccine. Changes in the genotype distribution and substantial diversity among circulating strains were detected throughout the surveillance period and differed between the two provinces. Determining vaccine effectiveness against circulating strains over time will be important to ensure that observed changes are due to natural secular variation and not from vaccine pressure.

Improvement of Mouse Preantral Follicle Survival and Development following Co-Culture with Ovarian Parenchyma Cell Suspension.

The parallel and continued improvements in both infertility treatment and the management of malignancy cases have brought to the forefront the potential for fertility preservation. Using ovarian follicular resources can effectively improve reproductive capacity and prevent infertility. The primary aim of this research was to try to generate an appropriate in vivo environment for the growth of the mouse follicles. Hence, the possible effects of the ovarian parenchyma cell suspension were explored on the growth and maturation of preantral follicles in vitro. In this experimental study, ovarian parenchymal cells were mechanically dissociated from preantral follicles of 12-14 days-old NMRI mice and then divided into 5 experimental groups (G1: Control, G2: Fresh follicle with fresh parenchyma cell suspension, G3: Vitrified-warmed follicle with fresh parenchyma cell suspension, G4: Fresh follicle with frozen-thawed parenchyma cell suspension, and G5: Vitrified-warmed follicle with frozenthawed parenchyma cell suspension). The diameter of the follicles and immature oocytes, viability, antrum formation, resumption of meiosis, in vitro fertilization (IVF), and Gdf9, Bmp6, and Bmp15 gene expression were examined on different periods. The diameter of the follicles and the oocytes on days 4 and 8, as well as the survival rate of the follicles up to day 12, were significantly higher in G2 and G4 compared to the Ctrl group (G1: 73.66%, G2:87.99%, G3: 82.70%, G4: 94.37%, and G5: 78.59%). Expression of growth marker genes for G3, and G5 groups was significantly higher than other groups, which indicated the protective effects of parenchyma cell suspension on follicles damaged by vitrification solutions. The growth, survival, and maturation of preantral follicles could be enhanced by co-culturing them with ovarian parenchyma cells. Further studies are needed to optimize the conditions for a successful parenchyma cell suspension-induced in vitro maturation (IVM) to occur in infertility clinics.

IL-37 evaluation in chronic periodontitis after periodontal treatment with and without low level laser therapy.

Periodontal disease poses a significant global health challenge. Traditional treatments focus on reducing inflammation and bacterial load, yet novel approaches are continually being investigated. Recent research suggests that IL-37, a potent anti-inflammatory cytokine, may play a crucial role in modulating the inflammatory processes associated with periodontal disease. In conjunction with IL-37, low-level laser therapy (LLLT) has gained attention for its potential in promoting tissue repair, reducing inflammation, and enhancing cellular processes. This study aims to investigate the effects of LLLT on IL-37 in periodontal disease management. Thirty patients were enrolled: the G1 group patients were treated with only scaling and root planning-SRP, the G2 group was treated with SRP and LLLT. Before treatment (T0) all periodontal probing pocket depth and bleeding on probing were obtained. Before (T0) and 10 (T1), 30 (T2) and 60 (T3) days after treatment, was achieved plaque sample and specimens of gingival crevicular fluid. Diode laser wavelength range was used between 600-1000 nm and 0.04-60 J/cm2 energy density for 3-s spotlights. In all patients PPD, BOP and IL-37 have shown healing improved parameters. Although LLLT is widely recommended for its biostimulatory and anti-inflammatory roles, it only showed additional short-term merits in reducing the pocket depth after conventional SRP. Its long-term adjunctive benefits remain unclear. Future RCTs with better study designs, adequate sample power and longer durations of follow-up are required to assess the effectiveness of LLLT as an adjunctive treatment strategy in patients with periodontal disease.

PD-L1 expression in resected lung adenocarcinoma: prevalence and prognostic significance in relation to the IASLC grading system.

Programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression is a predictive biomarker for adjuvant immunotherapy and has been linked to poor differentiation in lung adenocarcinoma. However, its prevalence and prognostic role in the context of the novel histologic grade has not been evaluated. We analysed a cohort of 1233 patients with resected lung adenocarcinoma where PD-L1 immunohistochemistry (22C3 assay) was reflexively tested. Tumour PD-L1 expression was correlated with the new standardized International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer (IASLC) histologic grading system (G1, G2, and G3). Clinicopathologic features including patient outcome were analysed. PD-L1 was positive (≥1%) in 7.0%, 23.5%, and 63.0% of G1, G2, and G3 tumours, respectively. PD-L1 positivity was significantly associated with male sex, smoking, and less sublobar resection among patients with G2 tumours, but this association was less pronounced in those with G3 tumours. PD-L1 was an independent risk factor for recurrence (adjusted hazard ratio [HR] = 3.25, 95% confidence intervals [CI] = 1.93-5.48, P < 0.001) and death (adjusted HR = 2.69, 95% CI = 1.13-6.40, P = 0.026) in the G2 group, but not in the G3 group (adjusted HR for recurrence = 0.94, 95% CI = 0.64-1.40, P = 0.778). PD-L1 expression differs substantially across IASLC grades and identifies aggressive tumours within the G2 subgroup. This knowledge may be used for both prognostication and designing future studies on adjuvant immunotherapy.

Selenium Protects Yellow Catfish (Tachysurus fulvidraco) from Low-Temperature Damage via the Perspective Analysis of Metabolomics and Intestinal Microbes

The effects of selenium supplementation in Tachysurus fulvidraco (T. fulvidraco) on low-temperature stress are not known. In this study, 280 healthy T. fulvidraco were divided into two groups, the G0 group (a control group) and the T0 group (a selenium treatment group on a 0.22 mg/kg diet), for a 6-week feeding time. Then, low-temperature stress (water temperature dropped from 26 to 13 °C, with a rate of 1 °C/h) was administered after that. The feeding results showed that selenium increased the percent weight gain (PWG), specific growth rate (SGR), and survival rate (SR) of T. fulvidraco and decreased the feed conversion rate (FCR), but these differences were not significant (p &gt; 0.05). Under low temperatures, selenium still has no significant effects on antioxidant indexes such as glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activity, superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, and malondialdehyde (MDA) content in serum (p &gt; 0.05). However, metabolomic analysis revealed that selenium caused changes in lipids and lipid-like molles, organic acids and their derivatives, and fatty acyls. Choline, linoleic acid, and glycerophospholipid metabolism pathways; d-arginine and d-ornithine metabolism; valine, leucine, and isoleucine degradation; and biosynthesis pathways, as well as pyrimidine metabolism pathways, were activated to produce these metabolites to combat against this stress. In addition, selenium increased the diversity of intestinal microbes in T. fulvidraco and decreased the relative abundance of Plesiomonas. However, the combined analysis showed the intestinal microbe changes did not affect metabolite production. In summary, selenium activated lipid, carbohydrate, and amino acid metabolism for energy substance provision, reduced the oxidation and production of other harmful substances, and increased the intestinal microbe diversity of T. fulvidraco to improve resistance to low-temperature stress.

Cardioprotective and Hypolipidemic Effect of Cardamom Oil-Loaded Lipid Carrier Nanoparticles in a Rat Model of Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetes

Background: Diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a serious complication of poorly managed diabetes. Inflammation, hyperglycemia, oxidative stress, hyperlipidemia, and other factors all play a role in DCM pathogenesis. Objective: To investigate the cardioprotective effects of cardamom oil-loaded lipid carrier nanoparticles (CEO-LC NPs) on streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetes in rats. Methods: Twenty-four male rats were randomly divided into four groups of six each. STZ (50 mg/kg) caused diabetes in all groups but the negative control. The diabetic control group (G1) received a normal saline solution. For 28 days, group G2 received CEO-LC NPs (600 mg/kg), group G3 received empagliflozin (10 mg/kg), and group G4 (no diabetes) received normal saline as a negative control. On day 29, blood samples were taken to determine blood glucose, cholesterol, LDL, HDL, and triglyceride levels, as well as oxidative stress markers. Additionally, atherogenic indices were calculated. Heart tissue was sent for histopathological examination. Results: In diabetic rats treated with CEO-LC NPs, serum glucose, cholesterol, LDL, and triglyceride levels were significantly reduced, while HDL levels increased. The CEO-LC NP treatment also reduced oxidative stress by increasing total antioxidant capacity while decreasing malondialdehyde (MDA). Furthermore, diabetic rats treated with CEO-LC NP had significantly lower AIP, CRI-I, and CRI-II ratios. Conclusions: CEO-LC NPs improve cardioprotection in STZ-induced diabetic rats by lowering plasma lipid levels and oxidative stress.

P992 Nutraceutical treatment based on a multi-compound formulation composed of Hericium erinaceus, berberine, quercetin, niacin, and biotin could improve the oral 5-ASA effectiveness in mild-to-moderate ulcerative colitis: Results from a two-arm multicentric retrospective observational study

Abstract Background The use of nutraceuticals as adjunctive therapy for ulcerative colitis (UC) is increasingly emerging. HBQ-Complex® (a compound consisting of Hericium erinaceus, berberine, and quercetin), when added to biotin and niacin (a compound called Enteroflegin®), has already shown promising results in ex vivo models of UC as well as in other gastrointestinal disorders such as symptomatic uncomplicated diverticular disease. This multicentric observational retrospective study aimed to weigh the effectiveness and safety of Enteroflegin® in mild-to-moderate UC as adjunctive therapy to oral 5-aminosalicylic acid (5-ASA). Methods Mild-to-moderate UC patients [i.e., with a partial Mayo score (PMS) between 2 and 7] on exclusive therapy with oral 5-ASA (i.e., without taking steroids, biologics, small molecules or other prebiotics/symbiotics/antibiotics) were divided into two groups and evaluated at baseline (T0), after three months (T1) and after six months (T2). One group of patients (G1) took 5-ASA plus two Enteroflegin® tablets for six months, while the other control group underwent only 5-ASA treatment (G2). PMS, faecal calprotectin and 5-ASA dose were collected at each time. Clinical response at T1 and T2 (i.e., reduction in PMS ≥ 2 from baseline) and clinical remission at T1 and T2 (i.e., PMS &amp;lt; 2) were the main outcomes of the study, including compound safety. Results One hundred thirty patients [median age 39.5 (30 - 55), BMI 24.4 (22.8 - 26.4) Kg/m2, median years since UC diagnosis 10 (3.2 - 18.4)] were retrospectively included. In the sample, 51.5% were male, 47.7% had left colitis, 55.4% had proctitis, and 5.4% had pancolitis. 96.2% were on mesalazine therapy. 40.8% of patients had a PMS consistent with moderate activity. The clinical response rate at T2 (69.4% vs 47.5%, p=0.01) and clinical remission at T1 (17.9% vs 4.2%, p=0.029) and T2 (38.9% vs 19.1%, p=0.03) were higher in G1 than in G2 group (Figure A, p &amp;lt; 0.05). The trend in calprotectin reduction was also more favourable for G1 throughout the study (Figure B, p &amp;lt; 0.05). A dosage of 5-ASA &amp;gt; 3.6 g (OR 4.269, 95% CI 1.322 - 13.79; p=0.015) per day, as well as the use of Enteroflegin® (OR 3.303, 95% CI 1.232 - 8.857; p=0.018), resulted as clinical remission at T2 (i.e., six months) predictors. No adverse events were reported. Conclusion The nutraceutical compound Enteroflegin®, when added to standard therapy with oral 5-ASA treatment in patients with mild-to-moderate UC, increased its real-life effectiveness without safety concerns.

P539 Assessment of VEdolizumab aNd Ustekinumab in Elderly patients with Crohn’s disease (CD): the IG-IBD AVENUE study

Abstract Background Comparative data regarding ustekinumab (UST) and vedolizumab (VDZ) effectiveness and safety in elderly inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients are limited. The aim of the present nationwide multicenter cohort study was to compare persistence and safety of these drugs in elderly versus non-elderly Italian IBD patients. Methods Data from 20 Italian centers were retrospectively collected. Based upon age and treatment, IBD patients aged ≥65 years were allocated to group 1 (G1) and group 3 (G3) (cases) if treated with UST or VDZ, respectively, and to group 2 (G2) and 4 (G4) (controls) if they were aged &amp;lt; 65 years and treated with UST or VDZ, respectively. The primary outcome was drug persistence at week 52. Propensity score analysis was performed for primary outcome using the inverse probability of treatment weighting method. Secondary outcomes included: steroid free remission (SFR) at week 52 and frequency of adverse events (AEs) at the end of follow-up. Results A total of 439 patients (176 elderly and 260 non-elderly) were included in the study. Among elderly patients, 93 and 83 were included in the group G1 and G3, respectively. Among non-elderly patients, 147 and 116 were included in the group G2 and G4, respectively. Baseline characteristics are represented in Table 1. No differences were found in terms of persistence between G1 vs G3, G1 vs G2 and G3 vs G4 (Figure 1). Higher baseline Harvey-Bradshaw Index (HBI) (OR=2.09, 1.15 – 3.78; 0.015) and baseline steroid therapy (OR=1.10, 1.04 – 1.15; p&amp;lt;0.001) were identified as predictors of a lower drug persistence at Cox model. Steroid free remission at week 52 was achieved by 80% and 77% of elderly patients in G1 and in G3 (p=0.63), respectively. Similarly, no differences for SFR were found between G1 and G2 (p=0.73) and between G3 and G4 (p=0.68). Incidence rate for AEs were G1 and G2 were 7.85 and 7.90 respectively; for G3 and G4 IR were 5.81 and 12.50 respectively. No differences were found in the UST groups (IRR=0.99; p=0.98) while in VDZ-treated patients, non-elderly had a higher rate of AEs (IRR=0.46; p=0.006). Conclusion These data confirm that ustekinumab and vedolizumab are highly effective drugs in patients with IBD, associated with a good safety profile in both elderly and in non-elderly IBD patients.