DF Treatment Research Articles

The physiochemical characteristics and glycerolipid profile of Cycas panzhihuaensis in response to individual and combined drought and freezing temperature stress

The frequency and intensity of the occurrence of drought (D) events during winter are increasing in most areas of China. To explore the interactive effects of D and freezing temperature (F) on plants of endangered Cycas panzhihuaensis, some physiochemical characteristics and the lipid profile were determined. Drought and F stress had no or little impact on the traits of leaves, which, however, bleached following a combination of D and F treatment (DF). Drought treatment did not affect the chlorophyll fluorescence parameters and the flavonoid content of C. panzhihuaensis. Besides the increase in flavonoid content, a decrease of photochemical efficiency and an increase of heat dissipation were induced by both F and DF treatment, with the effects being greater in the latter treatment. The malondialdehyde content decreased significantly and the total antioxidant capacity increased significantly in the plants exposed to both D and DF treatments. The D treatment did not impact the amount of phospholipids but led to an accumulation of saccharolipids. Additionally, the amount of both phospholipids and saccharolipids remained unchanged following F treatment but decreased significantly following DF treatment compared with those of the control. The unsaturation level did not change significantly in most lipid classes of membrane glycerolipids following various stresses but increased significantly in phosphatidylserine, monogalactosylmonoacylglycerol, digalactosyldiacylglycerol and sulphoquinovosyldiacylglycerol following D or both D and F treatments. Generally, plants of C. panzhihuaensis showed relatively strong tolerance to individual D stress, while D aggravated the F-induced damage, which was likely caused by the degradation of the membrane glycerolipids.

Mineralization mechanism of organic carbon in maize rhizosphere soil of soft rock and sand mixed soil under different fertilization modes.

This article endeavors to investigate the influence of various fertilization methods on the characteristics of rhizosphere soil and organic carbon mineralization in the mixed soil of Mu Us Sandy land under maize cultivation, with the objective of laying the groundwork for low-carbon agriculture and the development of high-quality farmland. The research focuses on soft rock and sand composite soil with a 1:2 ratio, and it comprises four treatments: no fertilization (CK), only chemical fertilization (CF), only cattle manure application (MF), and only oil residue application (DF). The findings revealed that the use of organic fertilizer substantially elevated nutrient content and enzyme activity in the maize rhizosphere soil. Furthermore, it had a notable influence on both soil aggregate diameter and stability. Specifically, the DF treatment led to a significant increase in both soil aggregate diameter and stability. The mineralization rate of organic carbon in the maize rhizosphere soil could be categorized into two distinct phases: a rapid initial decline followed by a slower release. By the end of the incubation period, the cumulative mineralization of organic carbon in the MF, DF, and CF treatments showed a significant increase of 119.87%, 57.57%, and 24.15%, respectively, in comparison to the CK treatment. Additionally, the mineralization rate constants of the DF and MF treatments experienced a substantial rise, with increments of 23.52% and 45.97%, respectively, when contrasted with the CK treatment. The bacterial phyla Actinobacteriota, Proteobacteria, Chloroflexi, Acidobacteriota, and Firmicutes were dominant in the rhizosphere soil bacterial community. Specific genera such as Nocardioides and Sphingomonas showed significant correlations with organic carbon mineralization. The application of different organic fertilizer can improve soil physical, chemical and biological properties, and promote the mineralization process of organic carbon in maize rhizosphere soil. Notably, the DF treatment exhibited the most favorable outcome, improving the overall quality of maize rhizosphere soil while incurring a minimal loss of unit organic carbon. These findings hold significant implications for optimizing field management practices and augmenting soil quality.

Efficacy and safety of tibial cortex transverse transport for diabetic foot: A protocol for systematic review and meta-analysis.

Diabetic foot (DF) is one of the most serious chronic complications of diabetes. In recent years, the use of the tibial cortex transverse transport (TTT) technique has enabled great progress in microcirculation reconstruction and achievement of good outcomes in DF treatment. The objective of this systematic review protocol is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of TTT for DF. Literature search was conducted using the Cochrane Library, Embase, PubMed, Web of Science, China Science Technology Journal Database (VIP), Wanfang Data, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Chinese Biomedical Literature Service System (SinoMed), and Chinese Biomedical Literature Service System (CBM) from inception until March, 1st 2022. In addition, our reviewers will retrieve dissertations, grey literature, systematic reviews, and reference lists of the relevant studies. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) which compared the TTT for DF with conventional treatment will be included. Our reviewers will perform subgroup analysis, sensitivity analysis, and publication bias analysis to evaluate the heterogeneity and robustness. RevMan 5.3 software and Stata V.16.0 software will be used to analyze the available data. Ethical approval was not required because this protocol neither collected private information, nor involved animal experiments. The research was disseminated by academic journals or related meetings. CRD42021279717.

CD44 is critical for the enhancing effect of hyaluronan in allergen-specific sublingual immunotherapy in a murine model of chronic asthma.

Allergen-specific sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) is a potentially effective disease-modification treatment for patients with allergic asthma. Because CD44 signaling enhances regulatory T (Treg) cell-induction, administering CD44 ligands such as hyaluronan (HA) with allergen-specific SLIT may enhance the therapeutic effects. We evaluated the role of CD44 in Treg cell-induction in T helper type 2 (Th2)-mediated chronic airway inflammation using CD44-/- mice and the efficacy of HA on SLIT in a Dermatophagoides farinae (Df)-induced murine model of chronic asthma. Th2 responses and Treg cell induction were evaluated in CD44-/- mice. We devised a new SLIT model of Df-induced chronic asthma utilizing HA as an adjuvant. The effects of HA added to the new SLIT model were evaluated by the early asthmatic response (EAR) and airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR), eosinophilic airway inflammation, and serum Df-specific IgE levels. Th2-mediated chronic eosinophilic airway inflammation was worse in CD44-/- mice compared with Df-sensitized wild-type (WT) mice. HA enhanced the effect of Df-induced Treg cells in a CD44-dependent manner. Sublingual Df treatment in combination with HA, but not alone, normalized EAR and AHR, and significantly reduced the serum IgE levels and the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) eosinophil number. HA also induced Treg cells in a Df-sensitized spleen cell culture in a CD44-dependent manner. The treatment-enhancing effects of HA in this SLIT model were diminished in CD44-/- mice. CD44 is a key contributor to Treg cell induction and critical for the enhancing effects of HA in a Df-induced murine model of chronic asthma.

Fetal loss due to Th1-skewed Th1/Th2 balance with increase (not decrease) of regulatory T cells in abortion-prone mouse model.

We used an abortion-prone mouse model, generated by mating female CBA/J mice with male DBA/2JJcl mice, to examine the effects of changes in the Th1/Th2 cell ratio and the percentage of regulatory T (Treg) cells on the maintenance of pregnancy. We subcutaneously injected female CBA/J mice once each with 50 μg/mouse of Dermatophagoides farinae (Df) extract and the squalene-based adjuvant (SquA); 10 days later, these mice were mated with male DBA/2JJcl mice. Compared with injection of vehicle or adjuvant, the Df treatment decreased the Th1/Th2 cell ratio and concomitantly increased the percentage of Treg cells in the spleen. In addition, fetal death rates were decreased. We then explored a substance which shifted the Th1/Th2 balance toward Th1 side. We found that 50 μg/mouse of keyhole limpet hemocyanin (KLH) increased the splenic Th1/Th2 cell ratio of nonpregnant female CBA/J mice. We subcutaneously injected female CBA/J mice with KLH and SquA; 10 days later, these mice were mated with male DBA/2JJcl mice. Compared with injection of vehicle or adjuvant, treatment with KLH enhanced the Th1 bias during pregnancy and increased the fetal death rate. The percentage of Treg cells, however, was increased in these KLH-injected pregnant mice contrary to our presumption. All collected data showed strong positive correlation between the Th1/Th2 cell ratio and fetal death rate. The increase in Treg cells independent of effects on the fetal death rate suggests that Treg cells do not necessarily induce maternal tolerance to the fetus but may prevent excessive Th1/Th2 imbalance during pregnancy.

Cefepime and diclofenac sodium combined treatment-potentiated multiple organ injury: Role of oxidative damage and disrupted lipid metabolism.

Concurrent exposure to antimicrobial and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is usually inevitable in most infections and postsurgery. Consequently, the present study was designed to assess the intertwining impact of coadministration of cefepime (CP, a wide spectrum antibiotic) and diclofenac sodium (DF, an NSAID) on rat's liver, kidney, and testes. Ratsreceived saline, CP (180 mg/kg/day, IM), DF (10 mg/kg/day, IM), or a combination of CP and DF. After 14 days, CP or DF induced tissue damage expressed by marked biochemical alterations in hepatic and renal function tests. Besides this, disrupted lipid metabolism and testosterone levels along with significant histological changes in hepatic, renal, and testicular tissues were noticed. A significant increase in malondialdehyde and decreases in superoxide dismutase and catalase activities alongside significant upregulated caspase 3 expression in tissues following CP or DF treatment suggested a bearable influence of oxidative stress, lipid peroxidation, and cell death. Accordingly, the simultaneous therapy of CP and DF evoked more obvious tissue damage than their individual treatment. Overall, data concluded that concurrent use of CP and DF in medical practice is a worrisome matter, so it should be done cautiously to avoid synergistic deleterious outcomes.

Effects of nitrogen deep placement coupled with straw incorporation on grain quality and root traits from paddy fields

AbstractThe present study was conducted to investigate the effects of deep application of nitrogen (N) fertilizer and straw incorporation on grain yield and quality, nutrient accumulation, and root morphological and physiological traits in both rice (Oryza sativa L.) cultivars during 2019 and 2020. The experimental treatments were comprised of deep N fertilization with (DF+S) and without straw incorporation (DF) as well as broadcasting fertilization with (BF+S) and without straw return (BF). No fertilizer and no straw return treatment were taken as control. Results depicted that the DF+S and DF treatment significantly increased the grain yield by 46.4 and 42.2%, respectively, compared with BF. The DF+S also significantly increased total N accumulation by 37.9 and 44.0%, total phosphorus accumulation by 39.3 and 41.7%, total potassium accumulation by 63.6 and 73.3% for the cultivars Yuxiangyouzahn (YXYZ) and Wufengyou615 at maturity, respectively, compared with BF. Moreover, nutrient accumulation and grain yield of BF+S were slightly higher than BF. Straw incorporation resulted in better total root volume and total root length than no straw incorporation treatments in YXYZ, regardless of fertilizer application method. Root morphology traits are positively associated with other positive traits such as yield or nutrient uptake. The DF+S treatment also significantly increased the milled rice rate and remarkably reduced the chalkiness degree for both rice cultivars, compared to BF treatment. Overall, DF+S is recognized as the optimal method to improve rice productivity and quality with better nutrient acquisition.

What is the best front-line approach in patients with desmoid fibromatosis? – A retrospective analysis from a reference center

IntroductionDesmoid fibromatosis (DF) is a locally aggressive, not metastasizing tumor associated with high local recurrence rates. Surgery was a standard-of-care for DF treatment; however, recently, conservative treatment and active surveillance are preferred. This study aimed to evaluate the real-life outcomes of DF treatment. Materials and methodsAll consecutive patients diagnosed with DF and treated between 01.1999 and 12.2018 at one sarcoma reference institution were included in this retrospective analysis. Kaplan-Meier estimator, long-rank test, Cox regression model, and Chi2 tests were used for statistical analyses. ResultsThe analyses included 363 patients (254 female, 109 male). 195 patients (53.7%) underwent surgical resection, and 139 (38.3%) experienced a watch-and-wait approach with or without concomitant therapy with nonsteroid anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in the first line. Disease recurrence/progression occurred in 43.2% of patients treated with surgery and 42.6% in the watch-and-wait group, resulting in 5-year event-free survival (EFS) rates of 60% and 55%, respectively. There was no difference in EFS between both groups (HR1.28, 95%CI 0.91–1.79). Surgery without prior biopsy and extra-abdominal wall location was associated with inferior outcomes. ConclusionsResults of DF treatment in our center showed that watch-and-wait approach ± NSAIDs has similar efficacy to upfront surgery and allows to avoid unnecessary surgery in approximately half of the patients, primarily when tumors are located in unfavorable sites, like extremities.

Impact of Nitrogen Fertigation on Watermelon Yield Grown on the Very Light Soil in Poland

The effect of nitrogen fertigation of two watermelon cultivars grown on the very light soil in the central part of Poland, during 2012–2014, was evaluated. The field experimental design was a split-plot with four replications. The main plot was the drip fertigation with nitrogen applied in two combinations: drip irrigation + broadcasted nitrogen fertilization (DI) used as a control, and drip irrigation + fertigation with nitrogen (DF); where, two cultivars: Bingo and Sugar Baby were used as a split-plot. The phosphorus and potassium fertilizers were applied pre plant in the spring, whereas, three rates of 40 kg ha−1 of nitrogen fertilizer were applied during the growing season. The fertigation was performed using a proportional mixing dispenser. The ripened fruits were harvested progressively as they mature. The marketable fruit yield, the single fruit weight and the number of fruits per plant, were evaluated. Tested factors presented a significant effect in the yield characteristics, further the interaction among the factors was important. DF, comparing to DI, notably improved fruit traits. Bingo cultivar had higher yield than Sugar Baby, but Sugar Baby cultivar produced more fruits than the Bingo under the DF treatment. This study provides the evidence that on a very light soil with low water and nutrients retention capacity the performance of watermelon can be optimized when nitrogen is applied directly through drip irrigation.

Dietary fiber and zinc additives on performance and intestinal health of Escherichia coli challenged piglets

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of zinc oxide and a low level of encapsulated zinc oxide, with or without dietary fiber, on the performance and intestinal health of weaned piglets. A total of 112 piglets were used, divided into four treatment groups: basal diet with zinc oxide (ZnO); basal diet with zinc oxide and dietary fiber (ZnO+DF); basal diet with encapsulated low zinc oxide (LZnOE); and basal diet with LZnOE and DF (LZnOE+DF). Piglets were challenged with E . coli K88 + , weighed weekly and the fecal score was evaluated daily. One pig per pen was slaughtered to evaluate the production of volatile fatty acids, intestinal microbial populations, intestinal morphology, and digestibility. The encapsulated zinc resulted in lower body weight and average daily gain, but, when associated with dietary fiber, had similar results to zinc oxide. Until 49 days of age, zinc oxide reduced diarrhoea ( p < 0.05). At 63 days of age the piglets subjected to LZnOE+DF treatment had lower diarrhoea than the pigs subjected to LZnOE treatment but higher than the ZnO and the ZnO+DF groups. Final weight and incidence of diarrhoea of pigs receiving LZnOE was worse than ZnO. LZnOE associated with DF provided the same final weight of piglets from the ZnO group.

Control and management continuous membrane process removal lactose with buttermilk

Membrane processes, such as UV, MF, NF, RO have long established themselves as an effective means of improving the properties of various dairy products, incl. secondary (buttermilk, whey, skim milk). Having different characteristics of NF and UV membranes can effectively retard high-molecular substances and pass low-molecular. In addition, NF membranes are able to separate organic substances from inorganic ones. Based on these properties of membranes, their performance characteristics and general dependencies of membrane separation, it is possible to effectively remove lactose from buttermilk concentrates while maintaining the mineral composition continuously. Membrane separation has several advantages over the enzymatic removal of lactose, which is used in practice. Continuity of membrane lactose removal can be achieved by a specific combination of UV, DF and NF treatment. The aim of these studies is to study the possibility of organizing continuous membrane removal of lactose from buttermilk and developing an appropriate installation scheme. In the course of the experiments it was determined that the UV membranes of the ВПУ-15000 are suitable for UV and DF. Their selectivity for lactose is R = 1%. The NF membrane of the ОПМН brand has a high (R = 99.7%) selectivity for lactose and a low mineral content. This allows them to be used to produce permeate, which is used as a buffer solution. A scheme for automatic control and monitoring of a membrane plant was developed, consisting of three blocks: UV concentration, DF, and NF. The plant provides continuous processing of buttermilk to obtain a high-protein-lipid concentrate of lactose-free. A weak link in the membrane plant is the need for membrane regeneration. In this direction, more research is required.

Gangjihwan, a polyherbal composition, inhibits fat accumulation through the modulation of lipogenic transcription factors SREBP1C, PPARγ and C/EBPα

Ethnopharmacological relevanceGangjihwan (DF) which is composed of Ephedra intermedia, Lithospermum erythrorhizon, and Rheum palmatum has been used for the treatment of obesity in traditional medical clinics in Korea. Aim of the studyThis study was conducted to standardize DF and elucidate its mechanism of action for inhibiting fat accumulation in adipocytes and adipose tissues. Materials and methodsThe herbal ingredients of DF were extracted in water, 30% ethanol or 70% ethanol and freeze-dried followed by HPLC analyses. 3T3-L1 adipocytes and high-fat diet-induced obese mice were treated with each of the three DF preparations. Messenger RNA and protein expression levels were measured by real-time qPCR and Western blotting. RNA-Seq analyses were conducted to examine the effects of DF treatment on whole transcriptome of adipocyte. Results(−)-Ephedrine and (+)-pseudoephedrine from E. intermedia, aloe-emodin and chrysophanol from R. palmatum and shikonin from L. erythrorhizon were identified as phytochemical components of DF. DF caused dose-dependent inhibition of fat accumulation in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. It also significantly reduced adipose tissue mass and adipocyte size in high-fat diet-induced obese mice. DF was found to down-regulate the expressions of the lipogenic transcription factors such as sterol regulatory element binding protein 1C (SREBP1C), peroxisome proliferator activated receptor gamma (PPARγ), and CCAAT/enhancer binding protein alpha (C/EBPα). Among the three preparations of DF, the 70% ethanol extract was the most effective. RNA-Seq analyses showed that DF treatment decreased the expression levels of up-regulators and increased those of down-regulators of lipogenic transcription factors. ConclusionsDF preparations, among which 70% ethanol extract was the most effective, reduced fat accumulation in 3T3-L1 adipocytes and high-fat diet-induced obese mice through the down-regulation of lipogenic transcription factors SREBP1C, PPARγ and C/EBPα.

Suppression of microRNA-205-5p in human mesenchymal stem cells improves their therapeutic potential in treating diabetic foot disease.

Diabetes is a prevalent disease endangering human health, while diabetic foot disease (DF) is one of the most severe complications of diabetes. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been used in DF treatment, taking advantage of the differentiation potential of MSCs into endothelial cells and their production and secretion of trophic factors like vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Molecular modification of MSCs to improve their therapeutic effects has been recently applied in treating other diseases, but not yet in DF. Here, we found that micoRNA-205-5p (miR-205-5p) is expressed in human MSCs, and miR-205-5p inhibits protein translation of VEGF through its interaction with 3′-UTR of the VEGF mRNA. Expression of antisense of miR-205-5p (as-miR-205-5p) significantly increased both cellular and secreted VEGF by MSCs, which significantly improved the therapeutic effects of MSCs on DF-associated wound healing in diabetic NOD/SCID mice. Together, our data suggest that miR-205-5p suppression in MSCs may improve their therapeutic effects on DF, seemingly through augmentation of VEGF-mediated vascularization.

Gastrointestinal tolerance of VERSAFIBE&amp;[trade] 2470 dietary fiber in humans

VERSAFIBE™ 2470 dietary fiber is a high‐fiber resistant starch type 4 that contains 70% total dietary fiber (TDF, AOAC 2009.01 method). The product can be used to add fiber to a variety of bakery applications. This randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, three‐period crossover trial tested the tolerance of two doses of VERSAFIBE 2470 dietary fiber compared to placebo in 26 healthy adults (0 g/d TDF, 25 g/d TDF, 50 g/d TDF). The 0 g/d TDF treatment (placebo) was 39 g/d AMIOCA® waxy maize starch, which was matched by weight to the 25 g/d TDF dose. Each 2‐week treatment period was separated by a 1‐week wash out. The doses were split and consumed twice per day, 8 hours apart. Subjects collected all bowel movement passed during the final four days of each treatment period. The gastrointestinal (GI) Tolerability Questionnaire was administered at the end of each week (baseline, treatment periods, and washout periods). Subjects recorded bowel habits and rated fecal consistency using the Bristol Stool Scale for seven days during the second week of each period: baseline, treatment 1, treatment 2, and treatment 3. The study was conducted according to GCP Guidelines and the Declaration of Helsinki (2000). An institutional review board (Hummingbird IRB, Cambridge, MA) approved the protocol before initiation of the study, and subjects provided written informed consent before any study procedures were performed. There were no significant differences among treatments in any of the fecal or bowel habit parameters examined, including bowel movement frequency, fecal output, fecal consistency, a composite measure of frequency and consistency, or ratings on the Bristol Stool Scale of fecal hardness, straining, discomfort, or incomplete evacuation. Subjective symptoms scores assessed with the GI Tolerability Questionnaire did not differ for nausea or diarrhea. Subjects reported similar GI symptoms on the 0 g/d TDF dose and the 25 g/d TDF dose, with the exception of GI rumblings. The mean rating for GI rumblings was significantly higher for the 25 g/TDF dose (p = 0.0427 week 1 and p = 0.0355 week 1); however, the mean rating did not exceed “1‐No more than usual” which suggests that the fiber did not affect quality of life. The 50 g/d TDF dose resulted in significantly greater scores for GI rumblings, bloating, abdominal pain, and flatulence compared to 0 g/d TDF. The composite GI tolerability score after one week of treatment was also significantly different among treatments (p = 0.0016). Pairwise comparisons indicated that the 50 g/d TDF treatment had a significantly (p = 0.0011) larger mean [SEM] composite GI tolerability score (4.50 [0.79]) compared to the score of the 0 g/d DF treatment (1.77 [0.39]). The composite GI tolerability score of the 25 g/d TDF treatment (2.88 [0.52]) was not significantly different from either the 0 g/d or 50 g/d TDF condition (p &gt; 0.05). Based on the GI symptoms, VERSAFIBE 2470 dietary fiber is a fermentable fiber and is therefore expected to exert a positive benefit on digestive health. This trial demonstrates that a high dose (25 g/d TDF) of VERSAFIBE 2470 dietary fiber is well‐tolerated in healthy adults.Support or Funding InformationThis study was funded by Ingredion Incorporated, Bridgewater, NJ, USA. Copyright 2016 by Ingredion Incorporated

Beneficial effects of Galectin-9 on allergen-specific sublingual immunotherapy in a Dermatophagoides farinae-induced mouse model of chronic asthma

BackgroundAllergen-specific sublingual immunotherapy is a potential disease-modifying treatment for allergic asthma. Galectin-9 (Gal-9), a β-galactoside-binding protein with various biologic effects, acts as an immunomodulator in excessive immunologic reactions by expanding regulatory T cells (Treg) and enhancing transforming growth factor (TGF)-β signaling. We investigated the efficacy of sublingually administered Gal-9 as an adjuvant to a specific allergen in a Dermatophagoides farinae (Df)-induced mouse model of chronic asthma. MethodsBALB/c mice were intranasally sensitized with Df extract 5 days/week for 5 weeks, and then sublingual Df-allergen extract for 2 weeks (5 days/week). Three days after the final sublingual treatment, mice were intranasally challenged with Df extract. The early asthmatic response (EAR) was evaluated 5 min after the last Df challenge. Airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR) was assayed and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) was performed 24 h after the last allergen challenge. Serum IgE and cytokine levels, and number of inflammatory cells in the BAL fluid (BALF) were analyzed. ResultsSublingual Df treatment in the presence of Gal-9, but not alone, significantly reduced AHR; EAR; number of eosinophils and interleukin-13 in the BALF; and serum IgE levels. BALF TGF-β1 levels were significantly increased in the presence of Gal-9 compared with Df alone. Treg depletion blocked the inhibitory effects of Gal-9 on the EAR, AHR, eosinophilic airway inflammation, and Df-specific serum IgE levels, and suppressed BALF TGF-β1 levels. ConclusionsGal-9 exhibited beneficial effects of sublingual Df allergen-specific immunotherapy in a Df-induced mouse model of chronic asthma, possibly by Gal-9-induced TGF-β1 production in the lung.

Effects of fertilizer application on water consumption characteristics and yield of potato cultured under ridge-furrow and whole filed plastic mulching in rain-fed area.

Chemical fertilizer reduction and organic manure substitution are the useful methods to increase potato water-and nutrient use efficiency, which is cultured under ridge-furrow and whole soil surface mulched by plastic film in semiarid rain-fed area. A 4-year field experiment was carried out from 2011 to 2014 with three treatments: 1) traditional chemical fertilizer application (F), 2) chemical nitrogen fertilizer reduced by 25% and dressing at flowering stage (DF), and 3) chemical nitrogen fertilizer reduced by 50% and organic manure substitution (OF). The soil moisture and potato yield were investigated, and seasonal water consumption, water use efficiency (WUE) were calculated to study the regulations of different nutrient management methods on potato water use process, as well as its effects on potato tuber yield and WUE. The results showed that soil water storage in potato flowering stage was the highest under DF treatment, but there were no significant difference among these three treatments. The depth of soil water depletion in DF and OF showed an increasing trend at post-flowering stage. Potato water consumption decreased significantly at pre-flowering stage, but increased by 36.2%, 23.2%, 24.8% and 19.0% respectively at post-flowering stage in 2011-2014 under DF treatment, as compared with those under F treatment. OF treatment increased potato water consumption by 20.7% and 16.3% than that under F treatment at post-flowering stage from 2011 to 2012, respectively, but exerted no significant effect at pre-flowering stage. Compared with F, DF increased potato tuber yield averagely by 2595.1 kg·hm-2 from 2012 to 2014 and significantly increased the WUE by 14.4% and 6.3% in 2013 and 2014, respectively; OF significantly increased potato tuber yield averagely by 2945 kg·hm-2 tuber yield in 4 experimental years and WUE was significantly higher than that under F from 2012 to 2014. It was indicated that both DF and OF could regulate water consumption between pre-flowering and post-flowering stages, and increase potato tuber yield and WUE. OF showed more significant effects than DF on the increment of tuber yield and WUE.

Risk Factors for Human Papilloma Virus Reactivation in the Genital Tract of Female Stem Cell Transplant Survivors

s / Biol Blood Marrow Transplant 22 (2016) S19eS481 S26 Methods: This was a phase 3, multicenter, open-label, randomized, controlled trial in patients 5% weight gain). Patients were randomized to standard care with or without DF prophylaxis (25 mg/kg/day, 4 divided 6.25 mg/kg infusions). Osteopetrosis was a stratification variable. DF began the same day as conditioning, continuing for 30 days post-SCT or 14 days for patients discharged from hospital before day +30 post-SCT. Control patients developing VOD/ SOS received DF treatment. Primary endpoint: day +30 incidence of VOD/SOS post-SCT. Results: The intent-to-treat population included 356 patients: 180 randomized to DF prophylaxis and 176 in the control group. Mean (SD) age: 6.6 (5.3) years. 40.7% of patients were female. Demographic and clinical characteristics were well-matched. Most common risk factors: busulfan/melphalan conditioning (58%) and preexisting liver disease (27%). VOD/SOS occurred by day +30 post-SCT in 22 (12%) patients in the DF prophylaxis group vs 35 (20%) in the control group. Rates of VOD/SOS in osteopetrosis patients were 14% in the DF prophylaxis arm vs 67% in the control arm. VOD/SOS rates by day +30 were reduced by 50% in the DF arm vs the control arm in patients with hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (0%, 40%), second myeloablative transplantation (8%, 17%), and prior gemtuzumab treatment (18%, 40%, respectively). Differences in VOD/SOS rates were lowest for adrenoleukodystrophy (ALD, no cases) and prior abdominal irradiation (11% vs 13%, respectively). The overall AE incidence was similar between patients receiving defibrotide prophylaxis (80%) and control arm patients (80%). Conclusions: Across risk-factor subgroups, the rate of VOD/ SOS was lower in patients receiving DF compared with controls (except ALD: no VOD/SOS in either group). Although the total numbers of patients with these risk factors were small, these between-group differences are of clinical interest and should be further explored. Support Jazz Pharmaceuticals

Mono- versus polyaxial locking plates in distal femur fractures: a prospective randomized multicentre clinical trial

Treatment of complex fractures of the distal femur utilizing monoaxial locking plates (e.g. Less Invasive Stabilisation System, LISS®, Synthes) is considered to be superior to conventional plating systems. Due to the limitation that the thread forces the screw into pre-determined positions, modifications have been made to allow screw positioning within a range of 30° (Non Contact Bridging, NCB®-DF, Zimmer). For the first time, this multicenter prospective randomized clinical trial (RCT) investigates the outcome of LISS® vs. NCB®-DF treatment following complex fractures of the distal femur. Since June 2008, 27 patients with a fracture of the distal femur (AO ASIF 33-A-C and periprosthetic fractures) were enrolled in this study by four university trauma centres in southern Germany. Clinical (e.g. range of motion, Oxford knee score, Tegner score) and radiological (e.g. axis deviation, secondary loss of realignment) follow-ups were conducted one and six weeks, as well as three, six, and 12 months after the operation. This study comprises data of 27 patients (8 male, 19 female; 15 NCB®-DF, 12 LISS®). Polyaxial osteosynthesis using the NCB® system tended to result in better functional knee scores and a higher range of motion. Interestingly, fracture union tended to be more rapid using the polyaxial plating system. We present the analysis of a multicenter prospective RCT to compare the monoaxial LISS® vs. the polyaxial NCB®-DF treatment following complex fractures of the distal femur. NCB®-DF treatment tended to result in better functional and radiological outcomes than LISS® treatment. Level I.

A randomized clinical trial comparing metabolic parameters after 48 weeks of standard‐ and low‐dose stavudine therapy and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate therapy in HIV‐infected South African patients

Low-dose stavudine therapy may have a lower toxicity profile compared with standard dose. A randomized controlled trial comparing these two doses of stavudine with tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (tenofovir DF) was performed to assess the effects on anthropometry, markers of inflammation, and lipid and glucose metabolism in Black South African patients. Sixty patients were randomized 1:1:1 to either standard-dose (30-40 mg) or low-dose (20-30 mg) stavudine or tenofovir DF (300 mg), each combined with lamivudine and efavirenz, for 48 weeks. Anthropometry, markers of inflammation, and lipid and glucose metabolism were assessed using standard techniques. In all three treatment arms, there was a significant increase in lipid levels over the study period. At 48 weeks, fasting glucose level (P < 0.005) and homeostasis model assessment (HOMA) score (P < 0.05) increased significantly in the standard-dose stavudine arm, as did insulin and C-peptide levels in both the standard- and low-dose stavudine arms. At week 48, a significant decrease (P < 0.05) in adiponectin was noted in the standard-dose stavudine arm, but there was an increase (P < 0.005) in the tenofovir DF arm. In both the stavudine arms, significant increases in anthropometric measures occurred at 24 weeks but these decreased by week 48. Mitochondrial toxicities occurred in both the stavudine arms. Immunological and virological outcomes were similar for all three arms. This study highlights the occurrence of metabolic abnormalities with both stavudine and tenofovir DF treatment. Awareness of the potential increased cardiovascular risk should be of concern with the use of both these therapies.

Influence of red light on reproductive performance, eggshell ultrastructure, and eye morphology in Thai-native hens

In total, 120 Thai-native pullets (Gallus domesticus) aged 18 wk were housed in floor pens, located in a conventional open-sided shed under natural daylight (12L:12D) and randomly divided into 3 groups; Groups 1 (DF) and 2 (DR) were reared under natural daylight and supplemented with fluorescent or red light, respectively, whereas group 3 (R) was maintained in light-controlled pens and exposed only to red light. The red light was produced by light-emitting diodes. All treatments were provided with 16 h of light per day (16L:8D) during a 26-wk egg-laying period, and there were 4 replicate pens of 10 hens for each treatment. Photostimulation of these light sources was initiated at 18 wk of age and subsequent effects on reproductive performance were observed during the experimental period. Morphological characteristics of the eyes and eggshell microstructure were examined at the end of the study. Feed and water were provided ad libitum. There were no significant differences in BW, feed intake, egg weight, egg quality, or mortality rate due to the treatment. Pullets in the R and DR treatment groups commenced egg production significantly earlier than those in the DF treatment group. In early-season egg production (0-8 wk), cumulative egg number was significantly (P < 0.05) higher for the R treatment (25.9 eggs/hen) than for the DR (20.9) and DF (19.5) treatment groups. No significant differences in total egg production per hen occurred among the treatment groups. At 2 wk following photostimulation, hens in the R treatment group had significantly (P < 0.05) higher serum estradiol concentrations compared with hens in the other treatment groups. Neither eggshell structure nor eye morphology was affected by the treatments. It was concluded that the spectrum of red light did not affect live performance, egg production, egg quality, eggshell microstructure, or eye morphology of Thai-native hens, except for in accelerating sexual development. The light-emitting diode lighting system would be beneficial for energy savings and the reduction of rearing costs.