Combined Treatment Research Articles

Impact of neoadjuvant chemotargeted therapy in patients with colorectal cancer and synchronous liver metastases in perioperative period

AIM: assess the impact of neoadjuvant chemotargeted therapy in patients with colorectal cancer and synchronous liver metastases in perioperative period.PATIENTS AND METHODS: a pilot prospective study included 30 patients with colorectal cancer and synchronous liver metastases (mCRC). The combined treatment included 3 cycles of neoadjuvant FOLFOXIRI chemotherapy with the addition of targeted agents: cetuximab (24 patients with wtKRAS) and bevacizumab (6 patients with mtKRAS) followed by radical surgery.RESULTS: the clinical and radiological response of colorectal cancer liver metastases to neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) was complete in 4 (13.3%) patients and partial in 26 (86.7%) patients. Partial response to NACT in the primary tumor occurred in all patients. Adverse events of NACT were detected in 12 (40%) patients, 1 (3.3%) of them produced grade III toxicity. All patients underwent radical surgery (R0) 3–4 weeks after NACT, 28 (93.3%) of them underwent simultaneous colorectal and liver resection. Postoperative complications occurred in 21 (70%) patients, including grade I and grade IIIa complications (according to Сlavien-Dindo classification) — 22 (73.3%) and 2 (6.7%), respectively. Histology revealed pathologic complete response (pCR) of liver metastases in 1 (3.6%) case and pathological grade 3 regression of the primary tumor (TRG3, Mandard A.M.) in 23 (76.7%) patients. Two (6.7%) patients with complete clinical and radiological response of liver metastases, who did not undergo liver resection, had no evidence of disease progression 12 months after the treatment.CONCLUSION: in mCRC with synchronous liver metastases, NACT according to the FOLFOXIRI regimen in combination with targeted agents with a moderate toxicity profile provide significant carcinocidal effect without having a negative impact in the perioperative period. The study is ongoing to analyze 2-year disease-free and overall survival of patients.

Prediction of anorectal dysfunction in the combined treatment of rectal cancer

AIM: to assess the risk of severe low anterior resection syndrome (LARS) in patients with rectal cancer after combined treatment.PATIENTS AND METHODS: from July 2022 to November 2023, 50 patients with rectal cancer underwent radiation with a total focal dose of 50–54 Gy with radiomodification with capecitabine and low anterior rectal resection with preventive ileostomy. The ileostomy was closed after 4 months. Prior to and after radiation, the anorectal function was assessed using high-resolution anorectal manometry (HRAM) and the LARS scale.RESULTS: the most significant predicting factors for severe LARS were maximal contraction pressure and first sensation volume. Three months after ileostomy closure, the patients were divided into groups depending on the HRAM parameters. Group 1: nine patients with severe LARS (34 points on the LARS scale), with a decrease in maximal contraction pressure by ≥ 30% and an increased first sensation volume by ≥ 60%, according to HRAM. Group 2: four patients out of 36 had severe LARS (31 points on the LARS scale), with a decrease in maximal contraction pressure by 5–29% and an increased first sensation volume by 10–59%, according to HRAM. Group 3: in 5 patients with a decreased maximal contraction pressure by ≤ 4% and an increased volume of the first sensation by ≤ 9%, LARS did not develop.CONCLUSION: a decrease in the maximal contraction pressure by 30% or more and an increase in the volume of the first sensation by 60% or more after radiation therapy can increase the risk of severe LARS. This group of patients requires prevention and correction of anorectal dysfunction.

Radiotherapy-resistant prostate cancer cells escape immune checkpoint blockade through the senescence-related ataxia telangiectasia and Rad3-related protein.

The majority of patients with prostate cancer (PCa) exhibit intrinsic resistance to immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) following radiotherapy (RT). This resistance is generally attributed to the limited antigen presentation of heterogeneous cells within tumors. Here, we aimed to isolate and characterize these diverse subgroups of tumor post-RT to understand the molecular mechanisms of their resistance to ICB. Single-cell RNA-sequencing (scRNA-seq) was used to profile senescent cancer cell clusters induced by RT in LNCaP cells. The expression and phosphorylation levels of ataxia telangiectasia and Rad3-related protein (ATR) were assessed by immunohistochemistry in clinical samples from patients with or without RT. Co-immunoprecipitation, mutagenesis, and Western blotting were used to measure the interactions between proteins. Xenograft experiments were performed to assess the tumor immune response in the mice. We identified a subset of PCa cells that exhibited resistance to RT, characterized by a reduced antigen presentation capability, which enhanced their ability to evade immune detection and resist cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein 4 (CTLA-4) blockade. scRNA-seq revealed that the senescent state was a transient phase of PCa cells post-RT, particularly in CTLA-4 blockade treatment-resistant cells. This state was marked by increased cytosolic ATR level. Cytosolic ATR phosphorylated CD86 in its cytosolic domain and enhanced the interaction between CD86 and its E3 ligase MARCH1 through electrostatic attraction. Depletion or inhibition of Atr increased the sensitivity to immune attack and improved responses to anti-Ctla-4 antibody treatment in a mouse model. Our findings indicate that the activation of cytosolic ATR, which is associated with cellular senescence, impedes the effectiveness of combined RT and ICB treatments. This discovery may provide valuable insights for improving the efficacy of combined RT and ICB therapies in PCa.

The combination effect of treadmill exercise and valerian hydroalcoholic extract on the heart of type 2 diabetic rats

Objectives: Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disorder recognized for inducing endothelial dysfunction in coronary arteries. This study aimed to investigate the synergistic effects of valerian hydroalcoholic extract and exercise in diabetic rats. Methods: Thirty-five Wistar rats were randomly divided into five groups: control, diabetes, diabetic rats undergoing treadmill exercise, diabetic rats administered valerian extract (200 mg/kg, oral), and diabetic rats receiving a combination of valerian extract and treadmill exercise for 8 weeks. Antioxidants and lipoproteins were assessed via blood sampling at the study’s conclusion. Hemodynamic parameters and the response of the coronary artery bed to constrictors and dilators were evaluated by connecting the heart to a Langendorff device. Results: Diabetes was associated with a diminished vascular vasodilator response, which was enhanced by the combined treatment of valerian extract and 8 weeks of exercise. Moreover, elevated levels of glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) were observed in groups receiving both valerian extract and exercise. Conclusions: The findings suggest that the combination of treadmill exercise and hydroalcoholic extract may hold promise in managing cardiovascular complications in diabetic patients by leveraging their antioxidant properties.

THE USE OF POLYDIOXANONE THREADS COMBINED WITH HYALURONIC ACID FILLERS - LITERATURE REVIEW –

This study focuses on both the individual understanding of how polydioxanone threads and hyaluronic acid fillers work, plus the combined used of both techniques to improve the anti-aging treatment and deliver the best possible results to our patients. The combination of treatments is, in most cases, the best approach to reduce signs of aging, improve skin quality and fix asymmetries and face proportions. However, the combination of treatments should be well studied and planned so that the single procedures result in a balanced and efficient harmonization. The aim is to get together information which reinforces the hypothesis that PDO threads are more easily degraded when applied together with hyaluronic acid fillers. Methods: This study is a literature review. It is important to use planning skills, money resources and scientific knowledge to take maximal advantage of the options we have available in aesthetic medicine and get the best outcome. With that purpose, a detailed literature search about the topic was done in Pubmed. Several articles were used to elaborate this study, including case reports and laboratory in vitro experiments. Results: Polydioxanone is a homopolymer of paradioxanone, biodegradable by hydrolysis, since in contact with watery substances, its ester chains are broken and low molecular weight chain segments diffuse, which leads to its heterogenous biodegradation by layers, from the periphery to the center. Hyaluronic acid is a biocompatible and widely available polysaccharide from the glycosaminoglycan family. It is a hydrophilic polymer and so, it improves water retention. In vitro experiments have shown that hyaluronic acid, induces rapid biodegradation of PDO threads by hydrolysis, starting already 24h after the contact with polydioxanone, leading to an increase in the fibers’ interlaminar and intrafibrillar space, with those empty spaces corresponding to zones of hydrolysis. At 48h, these spaces increase as the dissolution of the peripheral and central layers occurs. After 72h, empty spaces in the central layer and a frayed pattern on the periphery of the thread are seen, with disorganization of fibrils, breakage of molecules and loss of mass. The degradation happens from the periphery to the center, causing small cracks and allowing water to diffuse into the center. A case report of a woman with complications post PDO thread implantation, in which hyaluronic acid was injected in 3 occasions (0,5mL each time) as a way to try to speed up the process of polydioxanone degradation and accelerate the treatment of these complications, showed that after 21 days, the patient showed improvements, with reduction of oedema and at 45 days there were visibly less skin folds and irregularities caused by the thread. Conclusions: The stipulated hypothesis that hyaluronic acid increases the speed of degradation of PDO threads is correct. As such, both products shouldn’t be used simultaneously, not because complications will develop, but because it is not an efficient, result friendly choice, since PDO threads’ durability will significatively decrease. Contrarily, in cases in which PDO thread implantation lead to complications, injecting of hyaluronic acid could be an option to accelerate the treatment of those complications, as an alternative to surgical intervention.

A Pilot One and Two-Year Prospective, Blinded Clinical Evaluation of Efficacy, and Safety of Combined Treatment With Crosslinked Hyaluronic Acid Dermal Filler and Barbed Polydioxanone Suspension Threads for Mid-Face Contour Enhancement.

The combination of hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers and polydioxanone (PDO) thread lifting is gaining popularity for mid-face rejuvenation, especially among the Asian population. Despite the common use of these techniques, there is a paucity of long-term studies assessing their combined efficacy and safety. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of combined HA filler and PDO thread treatment for mid-face rejuvenation over a 24-month period in a Korean population. This prospective, blinded, single-center, open-label trial included 11 Korean subjects, aged 29-70 years, with mid-face volume loss graded 1-4 on the antero-medial cheek fullness scale. Participants were treated with crosslinked HA dermal fillers and PDO threads. Assessments were conducted using the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS), investigator-led clinical evaluations, and volumetric measurements using the Morpheus 3D system at baseline, 6, 12, and 24 months post-treatment. Quantitative analysis revealed a significant reduction in mid-face width from an average baseline of 149.27-145.00 mm at 24 months (p < 0.00001). Similarly, lower-face width decreased from 130.36 to 117.27 mm at 24 months (p < 0.00001). The GAIS scores demonstrated high levels of subject satisfaction, with 9 out of 11 patients reporting consistent satisfaction or improvement over 24 months. Minimal adverse events were reported, and no serious complications occurred. The combination of HA fillers and PDO threads was effective in achieving and maintaining long-term improvements in facial volume and contour. The Morpheus 3D system provided objective volumetric data, which supported the subjective improvements observed by patients and investigators. The study results highlight the benefits of ongoing neocollagenesis and tissue remodeling beyond the dissolution period of the materials. The combination of HA filler injections and PDO thread lifting offers a promising and minimally invasive option for long-term mid-face rejuvenation with high patient satisfaction and a favorable safety profile. Further studies are warranted to confirm these findings across diverse populations and compare this approach with other aesthetic treatments.

Is there still a place for etomidate in the management of Cushing's syndrome? The experience of a single center of low-dose etomidate and combined etomidate-osilodrostat treatment in severe hypercortisolemia.

Severe Cushing's syndrome (SCS) is a life-threatening endocrine condition that requires prompt medical intervention. Intravenous etomidate infusion is considered to be the most effective in rapid cortisol overproduction inhibition. This single-center retrospective study aimed to present the safety and effectiveness of intravenous, low-dose, lipid-formulated etomidate infusion in patients with SCS. Seven patients with complicated SCS related to ectopic ACTH syndrome (n = 6) or Cushing's disease (n = 1) who received low-dose etomidate infusion as a part of their cortisol-lowering treatment between April 2019 and April 2024 in the Department of Internal Medicine, Endocrinology and Diabetes of Medical University of Warsaw were included in the study. A continuous etomidate infusion was initiated at 0.01-0.02 mg/kg/h. In all patients, rapid control of hypercortisolemia was achieved with a median time of 30 h (range: 12-48 h). Median serum cortisol concentration reduced from 101.9 μg/dL (range: 78.2-119.6 μg/dL) before etomidate to 19.5 μg/dL (range: 18.3-22.5) after 72 h of etomidate treatment. Etomidate infusion was followed by etomidate and osilodrostat combined treatment and then osilodrostat monotherapy in four patients; one patient underwent adrenalectomy, and two patients died during etomidate infusion due to complications of advanced malignancy. This study shows that low-dose and short-term lipid formulation etomidate therapy is highly effective in severe hypercortisolemia management. Combined therapy with etomidate and osilodrostat is well tolerated and could serve as a bridge in long-term SCS treatment.

Comparative analysis of hospital laboratory wastewater treatment techniques in Syrian Arab Republic

Background: Hospital wastewater poses a significant threat to human health due to the presence of difficult-to-degrade organic compounds, active pharmaceutical ingredients and multiple inorganic substances that can pollute water resources and ecosystems. Aim: To compare the effectiveness of different techniques for removing organic load from hospital laboratory wastewater in Aleppo, Syria. Methods: We treated wastewater samples from hospital laboratories at Aleppo University Hospital, Syria, using several techniques, including biological treatment with the rotating biological contactor, adsorption with Syrian natural clay, coagulation with aluminium sulphate, advanced oxidation with ultrasound, and a combined treatment using natural clay and ultrasound. We assessed the organic load removal efficiency for each technique under different conditions. Results: The most effective technique was the combination of natural clay and ultrasound. Applying natural clay at a concentration of 1 g/L of wastewater along with ultrasound at 40 kHz for 30 minutes achieved chemical oxygen demand and biochemical oxygen demand values suitable for irrigation, in accordance with the Syrian standard. The chemical oxygen demand value decreased to 212 mg/L with 94% removal rate, and the biochemical oxygen demand value decreased to 82 mg/L with 87% removal rate. Conclusion: Based on our findings, techniques that combine different methods of hospital wastewater treatment, such as combining adsorption with advanced methods like ultrasound, are more effective than those that use single methods. Such techniques should be promoted.

New insights into the role of mitophagy related gene affecting the metastasis of osteosarcoma through scRNA-seq and CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing

BackgroundOsteosarcoma (OSA), the most common primary bone malignancy, poses significant challenges due to its aggressive nature and propensity for metastasis, especially in adolescents. Mitophagy analysis can help identify new therapeutic targets and combined treatment strategies.MethodsThis study integrates single-cell sequencing (scRNA-seq) data and bulk-seq to identify mitophagy-related genes (MRGs) associated with the progression of OSA metastasis and analyze their clinical significance. scRNA-seq data elucidates the relationship between mitophagy and OSA metastasis, employing “CellChat” R package to explore intercellular communications and report on hundreds of ligand-receptor interactions. Subsequently, the combination of bulk-seq and CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing identifies mitophagy-related biomarker associated with metastatic prognosis. Finally, validation of the relationship between mitophagy and OSA metastasis is achieved through cellular biology experiments and animal studies.ResultsThe distinct mitophagy activity of various mitochondria manifests in diverse spatial localization, cellular developmental trajectories, and intercellular interactions. OSA tissue exhibits notable heterogeneity in mitophagy within osteoblastic OSA cells. However, high mitophagy activity correlates consistently with high metastatic potential. Subsequently, we identified three critical genes associated with mitophagy in OSA, namely RPS27A, TOMM20 and UBB. According to the aforementioned queue of genes, we have constructed a mitophagy_score (MIP_score). We observed that it consistently predicts patient prognosis in both internal and external datasets, demonstrating strong robustness and stability. Furthermore, we have found that MIP_score can also guide chemotherapy, with varying sensitivities to chemotherapeutic agents based on different MIP_score. It is noteworthy that, through the integration of CRISPR-Cas9 genome-wide screening and validation via cellular and animal experiments, we have identified RPS27A as a potential novel biomarker for OSA.ConclusionsOur comprehensive analysis elucidated the profile of mitophagy throughout the OSA metastasis process, forming the basis for a mitophagy-related prognostic model that addresses clinical outcomes and drug sensitivity following OSA metastasis. Additionally, an online interactive platform was established to assist clinicians in decision-making (https://mip-score.shinyapps.io/labtan/). These findings lay the groundwork for developing targeted therapies aimed at improving the prognosis of OSA patients.

Impact of Phytoremediated Sewage Water and Organic Inputs on the Growth and Yield of Okra

Okra belongs to family Malvaceae, it is a good source of nutrition as well as for farmer economy. This experiment was based on two years field work. During the year 2021-22 and 2022-23 it was aimed to study the Effect of phytoremediated sewage water irrigation, organic manures &amp; biofertilizers on growth and yield of okra var. Kashi chaman in Prayagraj agro climatic condition. The experiment was designed as Randomized block design consist of 16 treatments and 3 replicates of each. Among which the treatment T15 with the combination of Azotobacter @4 kg/ha + PSB(Pseudomonas) @2 kg/ha +Vermicompost + treated sewage water, emerged as most effective in promoting highest Number of branches (4.61) number of leaves (28.52) leaf area LAI (124.12 cm2) Root length per plant (15.15 cm) maximum fruit yield (464.72 g) was found significant at 0.05 level of critical difference. Whereas maximum plant height (127.11 cm) was recorded in T9 (Vermicompost+ Azotobacter @4 kg/ha and TSW). So it can be concluded that this treatment combination can enhance plant growth and yield attributes of okra variety Kashi chaman along with sustaining nutrient levels in the soil. Ultimately, by applying these practices it offers an alternative way for resource-limited farmers to achieve long-term productivity.

Brexpiprazole and Sertraline Combination Treatment in Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: A Phase 3 Randomized Clinical Trial.

New pharmacotherapy options are needed for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). To investigate the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of brexpiprazole and sertraline combination treatment (brexpiprazole + sertraline) compared with sertraline + placebo for PTSD. This was a parallel-design, double-blind, randomized clinical trial conducted from October 2019 to August 2023. The study had a 1-week, placebo run-in period followed by an 11-week, double-blind, randomized, active-controlled, parallel-arm period (with 21-day follow-up) and took place at 86 clinical trial sites in the US. Adult outpatients with PTSD were enrolled (volunteer sample). Oral brexpiprazole 2 to 3 mg per day (flexible dose) + sertraline 150 mg per day or sertraline 150 mg per day + placebo (1:1 ratio) for 11 weeks. The primary end point was change in Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale for DSM-5 (CAPS-5) total score (which measures the severity of 20 PTSD symptoms) from randomization (week 1) to week 10 for brexpiprazole + sertraline vs sertraline + placebo. Safety assessments included adverse events. A total of 1327 individuals were assessed for eligibility. After 878 screen failures, 416 participants (mean [SD] age, 37.4 [11.9] years; 310 female [74.5%]) were randomized. Completion rates were 137 of 214 participants (64.0%) for brexpiprazole + sertraline and 113 of 202 participants (55.9%) for sertraline + placebo. At week 10, brexpiprazole + sertraline demonstrated statistically significant greater improvement in CAPS-5 total score (mean [SD] at randomization, 38.4 [7.2]; LS mean [SE] change, -19.2 [1.2]; n = 148) than sertraline + placebo (randomization, 38.7 [7.8]; change, -13.6 [1.2]; n = 134), with LS mean difference, -5.59 (95% CI, -8.79 to -2.38; P < .001). All key secondary and other efficacy end points were also met. Treatment-emergent adverse events with incidence of 5% or greater for brexpiprazole + sertraline (and corresponding incidences for sertraline + placebo) were nausea (25 of 205 [12.2%] and 23 of 196 [11.7%]), fatigue (14 of 205 [6.8%] and 8 of 196 [4.1%]), weight increase (12 of 205 [5.9%] and 3 of 196 [1.5%]), and somnolence (11 of 205 [5.4%] and 5 of 196 [2.6%]). Discontinuation rates due to adverse events were 8 of 205 participants (3.9%) for brexpiprazole + sertraline and 20 of 196 participants (10.2%) for sertraline + placebo. Results of this randomized clinical trial show that brexpiprazole + sertraline combination treatment statistically significantly improved PTSD symptoms vs sertraline + placebo, indicating its potential as a new efficacious treatment for PTSD. Brexpiprazole + sertraline was tolerated by most participants, with a safety profile consistent with that of brexpiprazole in approved indications. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04124614.

Assessment of anti-MRSA activity of auranofin and florfenicol combination: a PK/PD analysis.

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is an important zoonotic pathogen with multidrug resistant phenotypes increasingly prevalent in both human and veterinary clinics. This study evaluated the potential of auranofin (AF) as an antibiotic adjuvant to enhance the anti-MRSA activity of florfenicol (FFC) and established a pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) model to compare the efficacy of FFC alone or in combination with AF against MRSA. We observed an increased susceptibility and significant synergistic effects of MRSA to FFC in the presence of AF. The combination treatment of FFC and AF significantly inhibited MRSA biofilm formation and decreased the metabolic activity of mature biofilms. Importantly, AF fully restored the efficacy of FFC in both Galleria mellonella larvae and murine models. PK/PD studies demonstrated that the AUC24h/MIC targets required to achieve the bacteriostatic and bactericidal effects were significantly lower with the combination therapy compared to florfenicol monotherapy. These results reveal the potential of AF as a novel adjuvant to improve the efficacy of FFC in treating MRSA invasive infections and provide valuable PK/PD insights for designing effective combination therapies.

Research progress of immune checkpoint inhibitors in ovarian cancer

Ovarian cancer is the deadliest malignant tumor in the female reproductive system. Despite advancements in standard treatments such as tumor debulking surgery and platinum-based chemotherapy, the overall survival rate remains low. The emergence of targeted therapies, including Poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) inhibitors and anti-angiogenic agents, has provided new avenues for treatment. However, drug resistance and disease heterogeneity continue to pose significant challenges. Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), as an emerging therapeutic approach, primarily target the programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1)/programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD-L1) and cytotoxic T-lymphocyte antigen 4 (CTLA-4) pathways to restore anti-tumor immune responses. Although ICIs have shown significant efficacy in other malignancies, their effectiveness in ovarian cancer is limited, with a response rate of only 10–15% for monotherapy. Recent studies have focused on combining ICIs with chemotherapy, anti-angiogenic agents, or PARP inhibitors to enhance therapeutic outcomes. This article reviews the progress of ICIs in ovarian cancer, including monotherapy and combination treatment strategies, and explores emerging therapeutic targets and strategies aimed at improving patient prognosis and achieving personalized treatment. By gaining a deeper understanding of the tumor microenvironment and its immune evasion mechanisms, there is hope for developing more effective treatment options in the future, ultimately improving the survival rates and quality of life for ovarian cancer patients.

Imaging of tumor-associated macrophage dynamics during immunotherapy using a CD163-specific nanobody-based immunotracer

Immunotherapies have emerged as an effective treatment option for immune-related diseases, such as cancer and inflammatory diseases. However, variations in patient responsiveness limit the broad applicability and success of these immunotherapies. Noninvasive whole-body imaging of the immune status of individual patients during immunotherapy could enable the prediction and monitoring of the patient's response, resulting in more personalized treatments. In this study, we developed a nanobody-based immunotracer targeting CD163, a receptor specifically expressed on macrophages. This anti-CD163 immunotracer bound to human and mouse CD163 with high affinity and specificity without competing for ligand binding. Furthermore, the tracer showed no unwanted immune cell activation and was nonimmunogenic. Upon radiolabeling of the anti-CD163 immunotracer, specific imaging of CD163+ macrophages using micro-single-photon emission computerized tomography/computed tomography or micro-positron emission tomography/CT was performed. The anti-CD163 immunotracer was able to stratify immunotherapy responders from nonresponders (NR) by visualizing differences in the intratumoral CD163+ TAM distribution in Lewis lung carcinoma-ovalbumin tumor-bearing mice receiving an anti-programmed cell death protein-1 (PD-1)/CSF1R combination treatment. Immunotherapy-responding mice showed a more homogeneous distribution of the PET signal in the middle of the tumor, while CD163+ TAMs were located at the tumor periphery in NR. As such, visualization of CD163+ TAM distribution in the tumor microenvironment could allow a prediction or follow-up of therapy response. Altogether, this study describes an immunotracer, specific for CD163+ macrophages, that allows same-day imaging and follow-up of these immune cells in the tumor microenvironment, providing a good basis for the prediction and follow-up of immunotherapy responses in cancer patients.

Temporal variation in soil quality and carbon sequestration potential of different cropping systems in Arid and Semi-Arid parts of South Eastern Kenya

The use of incorrect agricultural methods and utilization of land, excessive inorganic chemical applications, misguided cultivation, and nutrient mining have all contributed to a considerable deterioration in soil health globally. To meet the requirements of growing inhabitants, farmers have turned to unsustainable methods including monoculture, excessive use of pesticides and fertilizers, and increased agricultural intensification. A study to determine the seasonal variation of soil quality under different cropping systems and carbon sequestration potential was done during the years 2018 and 2019 in Kauwi and Zombe Wards of South Eastern Kenya. Five cropping systems namely, vegetable, cereal, fruit, and agroforestry were selected, whereas uncultivated land was considered as control. During the typical long (MAM) and short (OND) rainfall seasons, composite soil samples were taken from the cropping systems at random, making the treatment combinations ten. Each farming system had surface soil samples obtained from a depth of 0 to 15 centimetres. Two-way ANOVA was used to analyze the results. The results revealed that the influence of cropping systems on seasonal variation of soil quality parameters varied significantly (p&lt;0.05). Further, the interaction between cropping systems and seasons significantly influenced soil pH and soil organic carbon. The short rain season registered lower soil pH values across all cropping systems. Soil Organic Carbon was found to be highest in vegetable-based cropping systems during short and long rain seasons. Electrical Conductivity was highest during the long rain season across all cropping systems. Soil bulk density was lowest during the short rains and under uncultivated land. NPK varied significantly across the cropping systems in the different rain seasons. Higher carbon stock was found in the Zombe ward as compared to the Kauwi ward. Carbon density values were noticed to be highest under Vegetable-based cropping systems in both study locations. This can be ascribed to the heavy application of organic and artificial fertilizers by farmers to increase yields and profits. Based on the results, Vegetable and agroforestry cropping systems were found to contain the highest amounts of soil carbon, and therefore, with the potential to sequester the highest amount of soil carbon. Both tiers of government should promote vegetable and agroforestry cropping systems to minimize the effects of climate change

Effect of vermicompost, intercropping, and seedbed types on Striga hermonthica infestation and sorghum production in East Hararghe, Ethiopia

AbstractStriga hermonthica is the most devastating parasitic weed affecting the productivity of cereal crops in Sub‐Saharan Africa. The key challenge for controlling this weed is identifying the optimal management strategies that simultaneously reduce Striga infection while boosting crop productivity. This study aimed to evaluate the potential role of intercropping, vermicompost, and seedbed types on the level of S. hermonthica infestation and sorghum productivity in 2021 and 2022 years. The treatments consisted of three factors: (i) three sowing methods (sole‐cropped sorghum (SS), intercropped sorghum with Babile‐1 (SB1), and Babile‐2 (SB2) groundnut varieties); (ii) four levels of vermicompost (0, 1.5, 3.0, and 4.5 t/ha); and (iii) two seedbed types (open‐furrow and tied‐ridge). The results indicated that pure‐stand sorghum in open‐furrow planting without fertilizer had the tallest height (60 cm), the heaviest dry weight (39 g) as well as the highest Area under Striga Number Progress Curve (ASNPC) (&gt;1200) in the first year with substantial reduction in successive year. The combination of 4.5 t/ha vermicompost, tied‐ridge, and groundnut intercropping gave the maximum sorghum panicle weight (151 g/plant), stover yield (14.21 t/ha), and grain yield (6.01 t/ha) in the year 2022. The greatest grain yield observed at 4.5 t/ha vermicompost under tied‐ridge with SB2 was nearly three times higher than the plot without vermicompost application. This treatment combination significantly suppresses S. hermonthica infestation while improving sorghum yield attributes. Thus, it could reduce food insecurity in the lowlands of Ethiopia via improving sorghum productivity, resources use efficiency, and soil health.

Alloy Element Adjustment and Heat Treatment Combination in Enhancing Electromagnetic Wave Absorption Properties of FeCoNiCu Medium Entropy Alloy

Alloy Element Adjustment and Heat Treatment Combination in Enhancing Electromagnetic Wave Absorption Properties of FeCoNiCu Medium Entropy Alloy

A comparative analysis of platelet-rich plasma alone versus combined with extracorporeal shockwave therapy in athletes with patellar tendinopathy and knee pain: a randomized controlled trial

BackgroundPatellar tendinopathy, also known as jumper’s knee, can significantly impact the quality of daily life for patients due to the associated pain. A randomized controlled trial was investigated the clinical, sonographic, and serum cytokine markers in patellar tendinopathy of athletes following platelet-rich plasma (PRP) or PRP with extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) treatments. Our aims to investigate and compare therapeutic effects of PRP versus a combination of PRP with ESWT for treating patellar tendinopathy.MethodsA total of 33 athletes with patellar tendinopathy were randomized into two groups. PRP + Sham (PS) group received intraarticular injection of autologous PRP (5 mL) once and sham ESWT. PRP + ESWT (PE) group received intraarticular injection of autologous PRP once and after 1 week ESWT (0.2 mJ/mm2 energy flux density, 1350 impulses, 4 Hz) once. All patients were followed up for 1 year.ResultsAutologous PRP injection and its combination with ESWT are both effective treatments for chronic patellar tendinopathy in athletes. PRP combined with ESWT resulted in faster reduction of knee pain than PRP alone at the 1-month follow-up. Serum IL-33 showed no significant difference at the 12-month follow-up. Levels of interleukin (IL)-6, IL-15, and IL-17 increased at the 12-month follow-up, potentially due to the additional training. However, the athletes did not report any discomfort or injuries, and no abnormalities were detected by ultrasonography after study. We demonstrated improvements in pain and functional scores, as well as knee injury protection in athletes, following 12 months of PRP and PRP with ESWT treatments.ConclusionsThe study analyzed the therapeutic effect of PRP injection alone and combining PRP injection with ESWT for chronic patellar tendinopathy. Our results showed that combined treatment can facilitate the pain relief early than PRP alone and is a safety treatment modality. No adverse effect was noted in our study.Trial registration Research registry and the registration number is researchregistry9518. Registered 14 September 2023. https://www.researchregistry.com/browse-the-registry#home/registrationdetails/650263e4f549fd00282a338c/. The level of evidence is level II.

Profitability of Maize and Groundnut Crop Production under Different Irrigation Systems with Varied Irrigation and Nitrogen Level Application in Southern India

An experiment was conducted to study the effects of irrigation systems, irrigation, and N levels on the economics of maize and groundnut during 2021-22 and 2022-23 at the College Farm, College of Agriculture, Rajendranagar, PJT Agricultural University, Hyderabad. The experiment consisted of 18 treatment combinations (3 irrigation systems as the main plot, 3 irrigation levels as the sub-plot, and 2 nitrogen levels as the sub-sub-plot) in a split plot design replicated thrice. The experiment revealed that among irrigation systems, irrigation, and N levels in both crops (maize and groundnut) significantly higher gross returns, net returns, and BCR were recorded with M2 (sub-surface irrigation system), S1 (1.2 Epan; IW/CPE) and N1 (100 percent RDN). In both crops, the interaction between irrigation system and irrigation levels (M x S) revealed significantly higher returns and BCR with sub-surface drip irrigation levels@ 1.2 Epan &amp; 0.9 Epan ratios (M2S1 and M2S2) followed by surface drip irrigation levels @ 1.2 Epan &amp; 0.9 Epan ratios (M1S1 and M1S2), surface irrigation @ 1.2 IW/CPE ratio (M3S1). In contrast, surface irrigation @ 0.6 IW/CPE ratio (M3S3) resulted in the least returns and BCR during both the years. The interaction effects of irrigation systems and N levels (M x N), irrigation, and N levels (S x N) were non-significant in the groundnut crop whereas they were significant in maize crop. The M2N1 recorded significantly higher mean gross returns (₹. 1,46,852 ha-1), net returns (₹. 90,960 ha-1), and BCR (2.62) whereas M3N2 recorded the lowest mean gross return (₹. 97,052 ha-1), net return (₹. 45,305 ha-1) and BCR (1.87). Among S x N interaction effects, the S1N1 (1.2 Epan; IW/CPE with 100 percent RDN) resulted in significantly higher gross returns (₹. 1,44,385 ha-1), net returns (₹. 89,256 ha-1) and BCR (2.61) followed by S2N1. In contrast, S3N2 resulted in significantly least returns and BCR. The interaction effects of irrigation systems, irrigation, and N levels (M x S x N) were non-significant in the groundnut crop while showing a significant impact on the economics of maize. The sub-surface irrigation system (M2) with 1.2 Epan (S1) and 100 percent RDN (N1) recorded significantly higher mean gross returns (₹. 1,58,749 ha-1), net return (₹. 1,10,243 ha-1) and BCR (2.82) followed by M2S2N1 (₹. 1,56,106 ha-1, ₹. 1,14,542 ha-1 and 2.79), M1S1N1 and M1S2N1 while M3S3N2 (surface irrigation system with 0.6 IW/CPE and 75 per cent RDN) recorded least mean gross returns (₹. 65,253 ha-1), net returns (₹. 14,106 ha-1) and BCR (1.28) thus making it the least remunerative among all treatment combinations studied.

Short‐Term Responses of Native (Perna viridis, Linnaeus 1758) and Non‐Native (Mytella strigata, Hanley 1843) Mussels to Independent and Combined Effects of Lowered pH Level and Elevated Temperature

ABSTRACTChanges in environmental conditions can influence the success of marine biological invasions. This study assessed the independent and combined acute short‐term effects of increased temperature (OW) and lowered pH (OA) simulating future ocean conditions on a native, Perna viridis, and non‐native, Mytella strigata, mussel species. There were four treatment combinations: Future (combination of ocean warming and ocean acidification), Ambient conditions, ocean acidification (OA), and ocean warming (OW). Survival and byssus thread regeneration in all treatments were measured daily for 7 days, while net calcification rate was calculated from the start and end of the experiment. Net calcification rate (NCR) was lowest under OA treatment. Likewise the low total alkalinity at the start of the experiment under OA suggests that the mussels experienced greater physiological stress. The higher survival rate of green mussels and the increase in the byssus regeneration rate over time in all treatments demonstrated that it can acclimate better to acute short‐term temperature and pH stress. The very low survival of M. strigata in OA compared to other treatments indicates its high sensitivity to low pH stress. However, surviving charru individuals maintained high byssus thread regeneration in all treatments. Overall, results suggest that M. strigata may not displace the native green mussels', P. viridis, higher tolerance to acute short‐term exposure to elevated temperatures and low pH, but can co‐exist in lower densities. This is the first study to compare the short‐term physiological responses of a sympatric non‐native and native mussel species under experimentally induced stress conditions. Longer‐term studies on the population dynamics of these species are essential to assess the potential success of these species under changing and variable environmental conditions.