Reduction In Index Research Articles

Absorbing Aerosol Effects on Hyperspectral Surface and Underwater UV Irradiances from OMI Measurements and Radiative Transfer Computations

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation effects on Earth’s ecosystems on a global scale can be assessed on a basis of satellite estimates of hyperspectral irradiance on the surface and in ocean waters and the spectral biological weighting functions. The satellite UV surface irradiance algorithms combine satellite retrievals of extraterrestrial solar irradiance, cloud/surface reflectivity, aerosol optical depth, and total column ozone with radiative transfer computations. The assessment of in-water irradiance requires additional information on inherent optical properties (IOPs) of ocean water. Our Ozone Monitoring Instrument (OMI) surface hyperspectral irradiance algorithm is updated by implementing a new absorbing aerosol correction based on OMI daily retrievals of UV aerosol absorption optical depth (AAOD). To provide insight into the temporal and spatial variability of absorbing aerosols, we consider a monthly global AAOD climatology derived from the OMI UV aerosol algorithm. Hyperspectral underwater irradiance is computed using Hydrolight radiative transfer calculations along with a Case I water model of IOPs extended into UV. Both planar and scalar irradiances are computed on the Earth’s surface and propagated underwater. The output surface products include the UV index. The output underwater products include the hyperspectral diffuse attenuation coefficients of the planar and scalar irradiances. Effects of the seasonal variability of AAOD on the UV index and the deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) damage dose rates are considered. The reduction in the UV index and DNA damage dose rate due to the presence of absorbing aerosols can be as large as 30–40%.

Impact of left atrial myopathy and post-ablation remodeling on quality of life: a DECAAF II sub-analysis.

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is associated with adverseremodeling of the left atrium (LA). The impact of the extent of atrial myopathy and post-ablation remodeling on quality-of-life (QoL) outcomes has notbeen studied. The aim of our study was to investigate the association between atrial myopathy and post-ablation remodeling on quality-of-life outcomes in patients with persistent AF. We conducted an analysis of DECAAF II participants who underwent late-gadolinium enhancement MRI (LGE-MRI) before and after AF ablation. We assessedatrial myopathy and post-ablation atrial remodeling, scar formation, and fibrosis coverage with ablation. QoL metrics were assessed using the Short Form Survey (SF-36) and Atrial Fibrillation Severity Scale (AFSS). Uni- and multivariable regression models were developed for this analysis. Six hundred thirteen patients with persistent AF were included in our analyses. At baseline, AFSS burden and total AFSS score were 18.94 ± 7.35 and 12.24 ± 8.17, respectively. Following ablation, all QoL and AFSS metrics improved in both the pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) and MRI-guided fibrosis ablation groups. On average, one unit of post-ablation reduction in left atrial volume index (LAVI) was associated with an improvement of 0.085 in total AFSS score (p = 0.001), 0.01 in shortness of breath with activity (p < 0.001), 0.15 in AF burden (p < 0.001), - 0.016 in global well-being (p = 0.018), 0.519 in health change (p < 0.001), 0.19 in vitality (vitality (p = 0.01), and 0.27 in physical functioning (p = 0.001). Baseline fibrosis and residual fibrosis post-ablation were associated with improved vitality and general health. Atrial myopathy and post-ablation atrial remodeling significantly impact QoL in patients with persistent AF undergoing ablation.

Residence-based disparities of composite index of anthropometric failures in East African under five children; multivariate decomposition analysis

BackgroundUndernutrition remains a global challenge and public health concern, despite the presence of policies, programs and interventions. There is substantial evidence that the majority of the rural children under-5 years old have composite index of anthropometric failure than the urban counter parts. Hence, identifying the main contributors of these disparities will help health policy makers, program designers and implementers for the reduction of composite index of anthropometric failures in children under-5 years old in the study areas.MethodsThe most recent and nationally representative samples of demographic and health surveys of five East African countries data were used for the current study. To appreciate the residence-based differences of composite index of anthropometric failure in under-5 children, the Blinder-Oaxaca decomposition analysis and its extensions were employed to determine the effects of covariates and coefficients. The country specific survey data analysis was performed.ResultsThe current study revealed that the burden of composite index of anthropometric failure (CIAF) in under-5 children were 40.69%, 22.04%, 34.06%, 31.99%, and 33.27% in Ethiopia, Kenya, Rwanda, Uganda, and Tanzania respectively. The residence-based differences in CIAF were 25.49%, 11.38%, 27%, 22.15%, and 20.55% in Ethiopia, Kenya, Rwanda, Uganda, and Tanzania respectively. Results of the Blinder-Oaxaca decomposition analysis and its extensions revealed that 100% of the rural–urban children under-5 composite index of anthropometric failure disparity was explained by endowment characteristics (covariate effect). Wealth index, mother’s education, age of child, type of birth, sex of child and birth interval inequality between rural and urban households explains most of the composite index of anthropometric failure disparity in children under-5 years old.ConclusionsThe residence-based CIAF differences were high in all study countries. The rural–urban CIAF gap is ascribed by household, maternal and child characteristics. This result implies that rural children under-5 is disproportionally disadvantaged with respect to characteristics than their consequences. Through identification of the underlying factors behind the rural–urban CIAF disparities, the result of this study is important in planning effective intervention measures aiming at reducing residence-based inequalities and the population health outcomes. Therefore, should be given for rural children to reduce CIAF by improving house hold wealth index, women education and attentions to older children, and female children.

Improving the Engineering Properties of Highly Expansive Soil by adding Psyllium Seed Biogel

This study investigates the use of environmentally sustainable materials, particularly biopolymers, to enhance the engineering properties of expansive soils. Psyllium Seed (PS) biogel, added in four percentages, 0.4%, 0.8%, 1.2%, and 1.6% by dry weight of soil, was evaluated as a biopolymer additive for highly expansive soil. A series of tests were conducted on treated and untreated soil samples. The results revealed a slight decrease in the Atterberg limits with 1.6% PS biogel, where the liquid limit (LL) reached 75.3%, the plastic limit (PL) dropped to 32.65%, and the plasticity index (PI) was reduced to 42.65%. The swelling potential decreased significantly by 76% at 1.6% PS biogel. Compressibility improved with a 52.3% reduction in the compression index (Cc) and a 96% reduction in the recompression index (Cr) at 1.6% PS biogel content. The Unconfined Compressive Strength (UCS) increased, with the best improvement being observed at 0.8% PS biogel (81.6%), and continued enhancement with longer curing periods. Elasticity also improved, with the strain at failure increasing by 83.75% at 1.2% PS biogel. The SEM analysis confirmed that 0.8% PS biogel rearranged the clay particles and reduced voids, leading to enhanced UCS and reduced swelling. These findings highlight the PS biogel as an environmentally sustainable and effective material for improving the engineering properties of expansive soils.

Formulation and clinical evaluation of hyaluronic acid nanogel in treatment of tear trough: nano-flipping from injectable fillers to topical nanofillers

Tear trough deformity (TTD) is a significant cosmetic concern, with current treatments relying primarily on invasive injectable fillers, which are costly and carry risks of complications. Despite the widespread use of hyaluronic acid (HA) in cosmetic applications, its poor dermal permeation has limited the development of effective topical fillers for TTD. This study aim to develop and evaluate a novel hyaluronic acid nanogel (nanofiller, NF) as a non-invasive topical filler for TTD. The hyaluronic acid NF was formulated and characterized for size, zeta potential, and skin permeation using the Franz diffusion method. The nanofiller demonstrated a particle size of 213.28 ± 4.15 nm and a zeta potential of −22.1 ± 1.07 mV, with a tenfold superior permeation compared to conventional HA gel. Thirty adult female patients aged 21–50 years with TTD were enrolled in a clinical trial and randomly assigned to receive either the NF or a conventional HA gel (control). Participants were randomly assigned to receive either the NF or a conventional HA gel (control). Clinical evaluation included subjective assessments and objective photomorphometric measurements of TTD parameters such as skin roughness (fine lines), indentation index, mean density, and percentage of the affected area. The NF group showed a significant improvement in TTD parameters, including up to a 40-fold reduction in skin roughness and indentation index, with 100% patient satisfaction and no adverse effects, compared to the control group. "To conclude; this study demonstrates the efficacy and safety of the HA nanofiller as the first effective topical treatment for TTD, offering a non-invasive alternative to injectable fillers.

Clinical and planimetric picture of healing of ulcer lesions in the area of cows' hoofs

The article presents the results of studying the effectiveness of VetAsepRan ointment in treating ulcerative lesions in the hooves of cattle. The experimental studies were conducted at ENVOL LLC, Melekessky District, Ulyanovsk Region. Clinical assessment of orthopedically affected animals was assessed using the lameness scoring system developed by D. J. Sprecher, D. E. Hostetler and J. B. Kaneene (1997). The study was divided into 2 experimental groups: the control group (n=10) and the experimental group (n=10). After surgical lavage of the purulent-necrotic lesion and treatment with 3% hydrogen peroxide solution, VetAsepRan ointment was applied locally in the experimental group, while Levomekol ointment was used in the control group. All animals were bandaged and special tape was applied on top to prevent liquids from getting in. Digital planimetry was used to monitor the healing process, using the AnalyRan program. The dynamics of reduction of ulcer defect area (Yt) and healing rate index (Iv), as well as Popova index (ΔS) were determined. Planimetric studies of cows were carried out on days 1, 7 and 14 after the start of treatment. In the course of the study, clinical and planimetric data were established on healing of ulcer defects in the hoof area of cows. As a result of the study, it was revealed that the use of Ve-tAsepRan ointment contributed to the recovery of orthopedically diseased animals on average by 11.6±0.37 days, compared to control animals by 13.7±0.56 days. The results of planimetric studies showed the intensity of healing processes in the experimental group.

Impact of Clinical Pharmacists in the Inflammatory Bowel Disease Clinic

Background: Limited evidence exists regarding pharmacist involvement and impact in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) interdisciplinary clinic care models. The purpose is to describe pharmacist utilization in an interdisciplinary IBD clinic and evaluate clinical impact on patient quality of life. Methods: This was a retrospective cohort study comparing outcomes in patients with Crohn’s disease initiated on therapy when the implementation of pharmacy services began (Early Phase) to the expansion of pharmacy services (Recent Phase). The primary outcome compared the proportion of patients referred to a pharmacist and those achieving a Harvey-Bradshaw Index (HBI) reduction of ≥3 points after therapy initiation. Results: 50 patients were included in the Early Phase and 43 patients in the Recent Phase. Utilization in pharmacy referrals increased from 48% (n = 24) in the Early Phase to 72% (n = 31) in the Recent Phase (P = 0.03). The proportion of patients achieving a HBI reduction of ≥3 points increased from 35% (n = 14) in the Early Phase to 51% (n = 18) in the Recent Phase (P = 0.23). Results also found a greater proportion of patients remaining steroid free in the Recent Phase compared to the Early Phase (50% vs 63%; P = 0.01) and C-reactive protein (CRP) improved significantly in the Recent Phase (−11) compared to (−3) in the Early Phase (P = 0.006). Conclusion: The utilization of pharmacists in an interdisciplinary IBD clinic increased and showed to impact patient care through improving symptom relief as seen by the achievement rate of the HBI score reduction, reducing steroid use after therapy initiation, and making clinically significant interventions.

Acute tricuspid valve annulus remodeling after transcatheter edge-to-edge repair with Triclip

Abstract Background Right ventricular (RV) adverse remodeling together with RV dysfunction, and not only tricuspid regurgitation (TR) severity, are independently associated with survival in patients with medically treated significant TR. Nevertheless, changes in RV dimensions and function after transcatheter tricuspid valve intervention and their association with outcomes remain largely unexplored, as well as tricuspid valve annulus (TVA) reverse remodeling. Aim of our study is to assess acute remodeling of TVA after tricuspid transcatheter edge-to-edge repair (T-TEER) with the TriClip device (Abbott Vascular, Santa Clara, CA, USA) using intraprocedural trans-esophageal echocardiography (TEE). Materials and methods This prospective, single-center study, conducted at Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Campus Bio-Medico of Rome, enrolled 60 consecutive symptomatic patients referred with the diagnosis of at least severe TR who underwent T-TEER from March 2021 to June 2024 with the TriClip System. Intraprocedural TEE was performed using Siemens Acuson SC2000 (Siemens Medical Systems, Pleasanton, CA, USA) at the beginning, and then using Philips EpiQ CVx (Philips Medical System, Andover, MA). A full-volume 3D echocardiographic data set was acquired during the procedure for each patient before and after the grasping. The following parameters were assessed using a multiplanar reconstruction analysis performed off-line using a 3D dataset: septal-lateral (SL) and antero-posterior (AP) annulus diameters; annulus area; annulus perimeter and eccentricity index. Results The mean age of the study cohort was 77,77 ± 6,18 years, and 77% were female. Twenty-eight patients (46,7%) had severe (3+), twenty-four patients (40%) massive (4+) and eight patients (13,3%) torrential (5+) tricuspid regurgitation. The majority of them had atrial functional tricuspid regurgitation, mostly due to annular dilatation. The acute procedural success was achieved in 82.22%. We observed an acute reduction in SL (from a median of 45 to 38 mm, p&amp;lt;0.0001), AP (from a median of 47.5 to 45.8 mm, p&amp;lt;0.0001), area (from a median of 18.4 to 16.2 cm2, p&amp;lt;0.0001), perimeter (from a median of 149 to 141 mm, p&amp;lt;0.0001) and eccentricity index (from 0.92 to 0.87, p &amp;lt;0.0001). The TV annulus was larger in patients with residual TR &amp;gt;2+. Analysis of the subgroups according to procedural success showed an acute inverse remodeling of the TV annulus independent of residual TR grade. We observed a significative reduction of TVA three-dimensional measurements immediately after the procedure. Conclusions In our study we observed that the reduction of TVA begins immediately after TriClip implantation, proving that T-TEER is effective in reducing TR and in inducing reverse remodeling of the TV apparatus. Concurrently, the baseline TV geometry influences the procedural results. Our data are gathered during T-TEER procedure, follow up data are needed for monitoring right ventricular performance. tva measures using mpr tr grade at baseline and after t-teer

Obstructive sleep apnea in patients with bradyarrhythmias

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common condition frequently associated with bradyarrhythmias. In some cases, treatment for such patients involves the implantation of a permanent endocardial pacemaker. Undiagnosed OSA may lead to an increased number of unnecessary pacemaker implantations, emphasizing the importance of timely diagnosis and treatment of this condition. This article presents clinical observations of seven patients with nocturnal bradyarrhythmias, which resolved following CPAP therapy (continuous positive airway pressure therapy). The use of CPAP therapy contributed to the improvement of cardiovascular parameters, including the reduction in the number and duration of heart rhythm pauses. Clinically significant bradyarrhythmias were resolved in patients, allowing them to avoid surgical intervention. In the described cases, patients demonstrated a high apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) ranging from 35 to 79.5 episodes per hour, significant oxygen desaturation (minimum SpO2 down to 50%), and pronounced heart rhythm disturbances during the night. The initiation of CPAP therapy led to a reduction in the apnea-hypopnea index (1.9–23.1 episodes per hour), normalization of minimum oxygen saturation (80–93%), and the elimination of prolonged rhythm pauses. The findings highlight the necessity of mandatory screening for OSA in patients with nocturnal bradyarrhythmias before planning pacemaker implantation. CPAP therapy effectively eliminates rhythm disturbances associated with sleep apnea and prevents unnecessary surgical procedures. This underscores the importance of a comprehensive approach to the diagnosis and treatment of this patient group, as well as the need for further large-scale studies to optimize the management strategies for such cases.

Potential risk of heavy metals release in sediments and soils of the Yellow River Basin (Henan section): A perspective on bioavailability and bioaccessibility.

The ecology of watersheds plays an important role in regulating regional climate and human activities. The sediment-soil system in the middle and lower reaches of the Yellow River Basin (Henan section) was explored. The spatial distribution characteristics of heavy metals (HMs) showed that tributaries, which are affected by anthropogenic activities, contain higher concentrations of HMs than the main channel. Sequential extraction experiments indicated that Cd had the strongest potential to be released, followed by Mn. In vitro simulation experiments showed that gastric and pulmonary fluids rendered these two orders of magnitude more bioaccessible compared to sweat. Moreover, Cd exhibited the highest bioaccessibility in both gastric and lung fluids. When bioaccessibility was considered in the evaluation of health risks, more than 82 % of reductions in non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic risk indices were observed in children and adults. A positive matrix factorization model was utilized to determine the potential sources of HMs: industrial sources, natural sources, and mixed agricultural and transportation sources were identified as the three main sources of HMs in sediments and soils. In addition, mining activities were also an HMs source in sediments.

Lactobacillus extracellular vesicles alleviate alcohol-induced liver injury in mice by regulating gut microbiota and activating the Nrf-2 signaling pathway.

Lactobacillus derived extracellular vesicles (LAB-EVs) are nanosized particles secreted from Lactobacillus during fermentation, and therefore exist universally in fermented foods such as yogurt, pickles, and fermented beverages. In this study, three LAB-EVs were prepared using a simple scalable method, and then their structures, compositions, and biosafety properties were characterized. The protective properties and potential mechanisms of action of the LAB-EVs against alcoholic liver disease were studied. All three LAB-EVs alleviated alcohol-induced liver injury. It was shown by reduction of liver index, histological damage, liver function impairment, inflammation, and liver oxidative status. The results showed that three LAB-EVs positively promoted the diversity of intestinal flora in mice. Additionally, the relative hepatic protein level of Nrf-2, HO-1, and CYP2E1 was also regulated by LAB-EVs. In summary, these facts suggest that the three LAB-EVs can alleviate alcohol-induced liver damage, by positively modulating the intestinal flora and activation of the Nrf-2 signaling pathway. These results may facilitate the understanding of the composition and function of Lactobacillus fermented food and also the development of Lactobacillus fermented functional food.

The effect of turmeric-Boswellia formulation (Rhuleave-K) in posture-related low back soreness and discomfort: A randomized double blinded placebo controlled trial

Background Poor posture from work or lifestyle habits is a common cause of low back soreness and discomfort. This study investigates the potential of Rhuleave-K, a turmeric-Boswellia formulation for managing these symptoms. Objective To evaluate the efficacy of Rhuleave-K (500 mg) over 15 days in alleviating posture-related low back soreness and discomfort in human participants. Methods This randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blinded, parallel arm study involved 52 subjects aged 18–70 years, with an equal male to female ratio of 1:1, and a 15 days intervention period. The inclusion criteria were a posture-related low back soreness and discomfort for at least 2–3 weeks with a pain intensity of greater than or equal to 5 on numerical rating scale. The primary outcome measure was a pain intensity difference from baseline to day 7 and day 15. Secondary outcome measures were a categorical pain relief scale and Oswestry disability index (ODI). Results There was a significant decrease in the pain intensity (p &lt; 0.001) compared to placebo at the end of 15 days of study in the Rhuleave-K group. After 7 days of supplementation of Rhuleave-K, there was a 56% reduction in pain intensity and by the end of the study, there was 98.5% reduction. In the responder profile of those having greater than or equal to 50% of max total pain relief, all 26 was in Rhuelave-K group and 3 were in placebo group. The ODI had significant 27% and 98% reduction in the disability index at day 7 and 15 respectively for Rhuleave-K group and placebo group had 1% and 3% change. Conclusion Posture-related low back soreness and discomfort was significantly reduced by Rhuleave-K at 500 mg dose. It is hence evident from this study's outcome that the Rhuleave-K can be a safe and effective alternative for the short-term management of lower back discomfort.

Metabolic and Intestinal Morphometric Responses of Nile Tilapia Fed Diets Containing Soybean and Protease

Proteases facilitate the breakdown of components associated with antinutritional factors. This study evaluated the effects of protease supplementation in Nile tilapia diets on metabolic and intestinal responses. Three diets were tested: soybean meal SM1 (fish meal FM:SM = 1:1), SM2 (1:2), and SM3 (1:3), based on the protein content. All the diets were without or with protease (0.44 g/kg). The fish were randomly allocated to 18 tanks/49 days. In SM3 without protease, an increase in the villus height and width, as well as the number of goblet cells, was observed. Protease supplementation increased the villus height compared to diets without the enzyme. The SM1 with protease resulted in a reduction in the digestive somatic index, but significantly increased the hepatosomatic and intestinal quotient indices. In SM2 with protease, reductions in the amino acid (AA) content and aspartate aminotransferase activity in the liver were observed. In the muscles, supplementation increased the AA concentrations. Higher plasma AA and albumin concentrations were detected in the SM2 and SM3 groups with protease. A significant interaction was found, with SM3 without protease showing lower plasma protein and AA concentrations. In SM2 with protease, higher levels of albumin and globulin were recorded. Protease in soybean meal diets improved the intestinal health and metabolism in tilapia.

Non-invasive assessment of intracranial compliance in idiopathic intracranial hypertension: an MRI-ICP study.

Idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) is a disease which threatens vision and causes disabling headaches, affecting women of childbearing age with obesity. It is characterised by raised intracranial pressure (ICP), measured invasively either with lumbar punctures or intracranially-inserted monitors. There is an unmet clinical need to develop non-invasive means to assess ICP. This study aims to utilise the MRI-ICP imaging technique to measure intracranial compliance index and assess its suitability as surrogate biomarker of ICP. Nine IIH patients and ten age, sex, and body mass index matched healthy controls were recruited. All participants underwent lumbar puncture, visual assessments, detailed headache phenotyping, and MRI-ICP scans to calculate intracranial compliance index at baseline. Following treatment, patients were invited to attend a one-year visit when all assessments were repeated. There was significant (p = 0.017) reduction in intracranial compliance index in IIH (mean = 1006.0 cc/mmHg/cm, SD = ± 384.6 cc/mmHg/cm) compared to controls (mean = 1493.0 cc/mmHg/cm, SD = ± 411.8 cc/mmHg/cm), inversely correlating with lumbar puncture opening pressure (r = -0.502, p = 0.029). A significant inverse correlation between compliance index and headache disability was also found (r = -0.458, p = 0.049) and a trend for an association between lower compliance index and increased frequency of headaches (r = -0.430, p = 0.066). This latter became significant (p = 0.018) after accounting for use of analgesics. Following successful treatment, compliance index was increased in all patients at one year (mean of differences = 380.7 cc/mmHg/cm, p = 0.031). This is the first study to apply the MRI-ICP technique longitudinally in IIH. It illustrates reduced intracranial compliance index in IIH, correlating with opening pressure and headache disability and ameliorating with treatment.

P0150 A precision medicine approach for carriers of defined IL2RA polymorphism: JAK inhibition blocks exaggerated IL-2 signalling in vitro, with no difference in in vivo clinical response rates in a small clinical cohort

Abstract Background The rs61839660 (660) polymorphism lies within the IL2RA intronic enhancer and is a causal variant in Crohn’s disease, with a heterozygote frequency of 16.8%. IL-2Ra (CD25) is the high-affinity receptor for IL-2, with binding activating JAK-STAT signalling. We have demonstrated that risk (T) allele carriers exhibit higher CD4+ T cell and natural killer (NK) cell CD25 expression. In response to IL-2, ‘T’ allele carriers show enhanced JAK-STAT signalling, greater CD4+ effector T cell (Teff) pro-inflammatory cytokine release, and enhanced NK cytotoxicity compared to wild-type (CC) subjects.1 We hypothesised that this drives inflammation, and that ‘T’ allele carriers would be more likely to respond to Janus kinase inhibition (JAKi). Tofacitinib (TF) is a JAKi licensed for the treatment of UC. We examined the ability of JAKi to block IL-2-induced JAK-STAT signalling in 660 risk allele carriers in vitro, and explored clinical response to TF in a genotyped UC cohort, with the aim of understanding whether JAKi presents a personalised therapeutic approach in this population. Methods CD patients of each genotype were recruited in collaboration with the NIHR IBD Bioresource.2 We extracted PBMCs and flow-sorted CD4+ Teff and CD56dim NK cells. Cells were cultured for 18h in the presence/absence of 20nM TF, stimulated with IL-2, fixed, and stained for intracellular pSTAT5. TF-treated patients were identified, and provided a blood or saliva sample. Genotyping was performed by qPCR. Data were obtained from patient records, with clinical response defined as a reduction in the Simple Clinical Colitis Activity Index or Partial Mayo Score of &amp;gt;/= 3. Results pSTAT5 levels were elevated in TT subjects’ Teff compared to CC/CT subjects in response to 10IU/ml IL-2 (Fig 1a), with a reduction in Teff pSTAT5 MFI in the presence of TF. In NK cells, pSTAT5 MFI was increased in TT compared to CC donors in response to 100IU/ml IL-2 (Fig 1g). The pSTAT5 response to IL-2 was non-significantly reduced in the presence of TF in both CC and TT subjects’ NK cells. In the real-world UC cohort, there was no significant difference in clinical response to TF between genotypes (Fig 2a), nor in the proportion of patients who had a disease flare on dose reduction or requiring colectomy. There was no difference in TF treatment persistence between genotypes (Fig 2b). Conclusion TF diminishes the in vitro pSTAT5 response to IL-2 in CD4+ Teff and NK cells in carriers of the 660 risk allele. In a UC population, there was no difference in clinical response to TF between genotype cohorts. Our data are limited by the small study population, with larger studies needed to confirm whether the use of JAKi may represent a personalised therapeutic approach in 660 risk allele carriers.

Sustainable Urbanization: Unpacking the Link Between Urban Clusters and Environmental Protection

Urban clusters are the main trend of current and future urbanization worldwide, but their impact on environmental pollution has been controversial. This paper explores this issue in the context of urban development in China, and analyzes the underlying mechanisms, using panel data from 285 Chinese cities spanning 2006 to 2021. The findings show that a one unit increase in the degree of urban cluster is associated with a reduction in the comprehensive pollution index by approximately 7.5%, and the main mechanisms by which urban clusters facilitate environmental protection are congestion alleviation, industry structural optimization, and technological innovation. Firstly, urban clusters reduce environmental pollution by mitigating the crowding effects associated with urban expansion, although this alleviation is predominantly observed in larger cities. Secondly, urban clusters foster the upgrading of urban industrial structures, thereby decreasing environmental pollution. However, in less developed cities where industrialization is a major development goal, the impact of structural optimization is less pronounced. Finally, technological innovations, including advances in technologies of energy conservation and emission reduction, have assisted in the transformation of the economic growth model, which has reduced environmental pollution. Looking ahead, the urban cluster remains a pivotal strategic direction for social development, and planning and construction of urban clusters should actively incorporate environmental benefit considerations.

P0854 The Effectiveness of Risankizumab as Induction Therapy for Crohn’s Disease: Data from the Sicilian Network for Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (SN-IBD)

Abstract Background Real-world studies are necessary to complement the evidence from randomized controlled trials. Currently, real-world data on the effectiveness of Risankizumab (RZB) for the treatment of Crohn’s Disease (CD) are scarce. Methods We designed a real-world, multicenter, observational study involving CD patients of the cohort of the Sicilian Network for Inflammatory Bowel Disease (SN-IBD) to assess the effectiveness of RZB induction therapy in clinical practice. All consecutive adult (≥18 years) patients with active CD treated with RZB from February 2024 (the date on which RZB became available for clinical practice in Sicily) who completed the induction therapy (12 weeks) were included. The effectiveness of the induction therapy was evaluated at 12 weeks, and all adverse events were reported. The effectiveness outcomes were steroid-free clinical remission (Harvey-Bradshaw Index &amp;lt; 5 and no steroids use) and clinical response (reduction of Harvey-Bradshaw Index ≥ 3 compared with baseline, with a concomitant reduction of at least ≥ 50% of steroid dosage). Results 74 consecutive CD patients (males: 43.2%; mean age: 43.8 ± 14.9 years) were included. All patients had at least one previous failure with a biological therapy, while 21 (28.8%) and 20 (27.0%) patients experienced three or four previous lines of biologics, respectively. At week 12, steroid-free clinical remission was obtained in 48.6% of patients, clinical response in 17.6% of patients (overall clinical benefit: 66.2%), while nonresponse was reported in 33.8% of patients. No significant difference of clinical benefit was found comparing patients who were previously treated with one or two biologics with those who were previously treated with three or four biologics (75.7% vs. 58.5%; p=0.12). Conversely, the difference of clinical benefit was significant when patients who were previously treated with only one biologic were compared with those who were treated with two or more previous lines (91.7 vs. 61.3%; p=0.04). Two adverse events were reported: one case of mild Covid-19, and one patients who suffered from a generalized edema leading to drug withdrawal. Conclusion Our multicenter cohort study confirmed the efficacy of RZB in inducing remission in patients with CD, particularly in those with previous therapeutic failures with biologics. Interestingly, the best results were observed in patients with only one previous therapeutic failure, i.e. as second-line therapy after a failure with one TNF-inhibitor.

Toxic effects of deltamethrin on oxidative stress, behavioural, organosomatic indices and histopathological changes in Digitonthophagus gazella (Coleoptera: Scarabaeinae).

Pyrethroids pose a great concern to the declining population of dung beetles and the sustainability of ecosystem services. This study aimed to investigate the toxic effects of deltamethrin on Digitonthophagus gazella. First, the LC50 value (0.275 ppm) was determined, and sub-lethal concentrations (LD; low dose-0.014ppm, MD; medium dose-0.028ppm, and HD; high dose-0.055ppm) were assessed for physiological effects. The findings showed a significant dose and time dependent increase in fluorescence intensity (dcfda staining) and a decrease in antioxidant activity, including superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione (GSH). Furthermore, significant down regulation of cyp4g7, cyp6bq9, and cyp4q4 expression indicates enhanced oxidative stress. Additionally, a reduction in the organosomatic index, accompanied by histological changes in the brain, gut, and gonads, suggests potential functional disturbances. Overall, deltamethrin exposure had profound and irreversible pathological consequences on various vital organs and systems in D. gazella, affecting reproduction and nesting.

Mechanistic Insights into the Therapeutic Efficacy of Qi Ling Gui Fu Prescription in Broiler Ascites Syndrome: A Network Pharmacology and Experimental Study

This study delves into the therapeutic potential of Qi Ling Gui Fu Prescription (QLGFP) in broiler ascites syndrome (AS) by investigating its impact on the phenotypic transformation of vascular smooth muscle. Utilizing network pharmacology, we identified 267 active ingredients and 120 core targets of QLGFP, revealing its multifaceted mechanism of action. Gene enrichment analysis highlighted the pivotal roles of Toll-like receptor, FoxO, and MAPK signaling pathways in QLGFP’s therapeutic effects. Experimental validation in a broiler AS model demonstrated that QLGFP regulated the expression of key markers (SM-22α, OPN, and KLF4) associated with the phenotypic transformation of pulmonary artery vascular smooth muscle (PASMC). Clinical improvements were evident, with a significant reduction in ascites cardiac index (AHI). Furthermore, QLGFP suppressed the protein expression of MAPK1 (ERK1), p-MAPK1, MAPK9 (JNK2), p-MAPK9, MA3.PK14 (P38α), and p-MAPK14, along with downstream factors AP1 and ATF4. These findings suggest that QLGFP effectively prevents and treats AS in broilers by modulating the MAPKs-AP1/ATF4 pathway, thereby inhibiting the phenotypic transformation and proliferation of PASMCs. This study contributes a theoretical foundation for understanding the role of QLGFP in the prevention and treatment of AS in broilers.

P0898 Comparative Study on the Efficacy of Biologics with Dietary Intervention in Crohn's Disease: Evaluating the Impact of Crohn's Disease Exclusion Diet and partial Entral nutrition Combination with Biologics

Abstract Background Crohn's disease (CD) is a chronic inflammatory condition with significant impact on patient health. While the Crohn's Disease Exclusion Diet (CDED) and partial enteral nutrition (pEN) have shown therapeutic efficacy in CD, real-world study data are limited, and there is a lack of research on the benefits of their combination use with biologic therapies. Methods This retrospective study included CD patients divided into two groups, starting at the initiation of biologics treatment: those receiving biologics alone and those receiving biologics with CDED + pEN for 12 weeks. Clinical outcomes were assessed at baseline, 12, 24, and 48 weeks. Results A total of 51 CD patients were included in the study: 35 received biologics alone, while 16 received biologics with CDED + pEN for 12 weeks. While Crohn’s Disease Activity Index (CDAI) reduction, hemoglobin (Hb) increase, albumin levels, and fecal calprotectin reduction showed no significant differences between groups, notable findings emerged in body weight and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels. The biologics + CDED + pEN group demonstrated a continuous increase in body weight over 48 weeks, whereas the biologics-only group showed a less pronounced trend. Additionally, CRP levels in the CDED + pEN group decreased more rapidly, with significant differences observed by week 12, indicating an early anti-inflammatory effect. Beyond 12 weeks, CRP levels in both groups gradually aligned, but the initial rapid reduction in the combination group highlights the potential of dietary intervention in achieving quicker inflammation control. Despite the discontinuation of CDED + pEN after week 12, the initial benefits in body weight gain and CRP reduction persisted, suggesting lasting effects of the dietary approach when combined with biologics. Conclusion Short-term use of CDED + pEN with biologics may offer early advantages in reducing inflammation and supporting body weight gain in CD treatment.