Fc Treatment Research Articles

Growth and flowering responses of eelgrass to simulated grazing and fecal addition by Brant Geese

AbstractSeagrasses provide a wide range of ecosystem services and are prioritized in conservation planning. Management of this dynamic community requires describing seagrass responses to repeated grazing by dependent herbivores. Using two experimental randomized block designs in Humboldt Bay, California, we tested responses of eelgrass (Zostera marina) to separate and combined effects of simulated Brant Goose (Branta bernicla) grazing (clipping to a uniform height) and fecal pellet addition, and then to medium (MED) and severe (SEV) intensities of simulated Brant flock visitation. In Experiment 1, clipping with fecal addition (FC) stimulated more clonal addition of shoots than controls or clipping and fecal addition alone (standardized β = 0.26 relative to control). The FC treatment also had the largest positive, delayed effect (β = 0.135) on density of flowering shoots. In Experiment 2, the MED intensity treatment had positive effects on shoot density (β = 0.149), rates of leaf extension (β = 0.16), and leaf productivity (β = 0.20). These MED treatment responses resulted in the highest measures of above‐ground (β = 0.099) and below‐ground (β = 0.32) biomass. Whole shoot (βMED = 0.33, βSEV = −0.36) and landscape (βMED = 0.34, βSEV = −0.23) levels of productivity for the MED treatment reflected the parabolic shape predicted by the compensatory regrowth hypothesis, likely because light and nutrient resources were available to the eelgrass and meristems that were not damaged. Meristem injury in the SEV treatment likely explained why productivity was low, but the high SEV resource levels allowed these plants to recover to control levels in approximately eight to 10 weeks after the last treatment applications. The MED level of shoot and landscape productivity would optimize low intertidal accessibility for Brant to the most nutritiously valuable leaves. Brant grazing and detrital pathways of carbon flow are likely linked with Brant‐induced productivity contributing to the detrital pathway when Brant are present and after the birds leave the estuary. The effect of Brant grazing on eelgrass sexual reproduction may increase long‐term resilience of estuarine ecosystems.

The influence of water regime on cadmium uptake by Artemisia: A dominant vegetation in Poyang Lake wetland

An analysis of the influence of water regime on the metal accumulation processes of wetland plants can improve the efficiency of phytoremediation. However, few studies have clearly explored the mechanism of influence of water regime on the process of accumulation of metals by the dominant vegetation in Poyang Lake wetland, the largest freshwater lake in China. The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of water regime (Flooding condition [FC], Dry condition [DC] and alternate dry and flooding condition [DFC]) on the accumulation of cadmium (Cd) by Artemisia selengensis Turcz. ex Bess., a dominant plant in the Poyang Lake wetland. The results indicated that FC treatment significantly enhanced the accumulation of Cd by Artemisia roots compared with DFC and DC treatments. In addition, the DFC treatment significantly increased the translocation of Cd from roots to shoots compared with the FC treatment. A multivariate statistical analysis indicated that the rhizosphere Cd fraction, iron plaque on the root surface and rhizosphere pH directly or indirectly significantly influence the process of accumulation of Cd. The conversion of exchangeable fraction to Fe/Mn oxide bound and organic fraction under the DFC and FC treatments decreased the accumulation of Cd in Artemisia. The formation of increased amounts of iron plaque under the FC treatment may enhance the accumulation of Cd in roots, while it may reduce the translocation of Cd to aboveground tissues. In addition, a higher rhizosphere pH under the FC treatment may promote accumulation of Cd in the root by inducing formation of iron plaque. Similarly, compared with the FC treatment, a lower rhizosphere pH and iron plaque can induce the processes of Cd translocation under the DFC treatment. Based on the bioaccumulation factor, translocation factor and the ratio of root/aerial Cd content, treatment with DC benefited the phytoextraction of Cd, while treatment with DFC and FC enhanced the phytostabilization of Cd by Artemisia. This study provides valuable information for deeply understanding the resilience of wetland ecosystems and for enhancing the phytoremediation with wetland plants using water management.

Effects of interleukin-11 antagonist on pulmonary fibrosis in mice

Objective: To investigate the effects of interleukin 11 (IL-11) antagonist on bleomycin (BLM)-induced pulmonary fibrosis in mice. Methods: C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into the control group, IL-11 antagonist group, BLM group, and BLM + IL-11 antagonist group (30 in each group). Mice in the BLM group and BLM + IL-11 antagonist group were injected with BLM at the dose of 1.5 mg/kg to induce pulmonary fibrosis. The IL-11 antagonist IL-11 Rα FC (2.5 mg/kg) was administered via the tail vein to the mice in the IL-11 antagonist group and BLM + IL-11 antagonist group every 3 days from the BLM injection. The survival status of the mice was observed. On the 21st day after modeling, HE staining, Masson staining, and Ashcroft score were used to evaluate the degree of pulmonary fibrosis. The content of hydroxyproline (HYP) in lung tissue was determined by the alkaline hydrolysis method. The gene and protein expressions of Collagen I, Collagen III, and α-SMA in lung tissues were detected by real-time PCR and Western blot, respectively. TGF-β1 content in lung tissue was determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results: Compared with the control group, BLM reduced the survival rate, destructed the lung tissue, and increased the gene and protein expressions of Collagen I, Collagen III, α-SMA, and the content of TGF-β1 in lung tissue. While, IL-11 Rα Fc treatment improved the survival rate of BLM-induced pulmonary mice, reduced pathological changes, and hydroxyproline content in lung tissue. IL-11 Rα Fc also reduced Collagen I, Collagen III, and α-SMA mRNA and protein expression in the lungs of BLM-treated mice, as well as TGF-β1 content. Conclusion: The IL-11 antagonist alleviates BLM-induced pulmonary fibrosis in mice, which provides a new idea for the clinical treatment of pulmonary fibrosis.

Treatment of Open-Angle Glaucoma and Ocular Hypertension with Preservative-Free Tafluprost/Timolol Fixed-Dose Combination Therapy: UK and Ireland Results from the VISIONARY Study

IntroductionReducing intraocular pressure (IOP), the only modifiable risk factor for open-angle glaucoma (OAG), is important for the preservation of vision and slowing of disease progression. Preservative-free tafluprost (0.0015%)/timolol (0.5%) fixed combination (PF Taf-T FC) is an approved combination therapy for OAG treatment. The VISIONARY study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness and tolerability of PF Taf-T FC in real-world clinical settings. Here, we present the results from the United Kingdom (UK) and Ireland.MethodsThis observational, multicentre, European, prospective study recorded data during routine clinic appointments on the use of PF Taf-T FC for the treatment of OAG and ocular hypertension (OHT) in patients whose disease was insufficiently controlled on a prostaglandin analogue (PGA) or beta blocker monotherapy or who did not tolerate these medications. Mean change in IOP, symptom severity, changes in clinical signs, and tolerability were investigated over 6 months.ResultsEighty-two patients were recruited in the UK and Ireland. After 6 months of PF Taf-T FC treatment, mean IOP was significantly reduced from 22.0 to 16.2 mmHg in the UK group and from 18.6 to 14.1 mmHg in the Ireland group. In the UK (65 patients), 49 adverse events (AEs) were reported, of which 3 were serious. No AEs were reported in the Ireland group (17 patients). Overall, 91.9% of UK physicians reported PF Taf-T FC treatment to be the same or better than prior medication for improving clinical signs; 90.0% of UK patients reported PF Taf-T FC treatment to have good or very good tolerability.ConclusionsTreatment with PF Taf-T FC resulted in significant reductions in mean IOP over 6 months. Patients and physicians reported that treatment was well tolerated. These data demonstrate real-world efficacy of PF Taf-T FC for the treatment of OAG and OHT in routine clinical practice in the UK and Ireland.Trial registrationEuropean Union electronic Register of Post-Authorisation Studies (EU PAS) register number, EUPAS22204.Supplementary InformationThe online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12325-021-01725-7.

Sequential dosing with zoledronate following OPG:Fc treatment protects against rebound bone loss

Sequential dosing with zoledronate following OPG:Fc treatment protects against rebound bone loss

Morphological, physiological and phytochemical responses of Mexican marigold (Tagetes minuta L.) to drought stress

Drought stress is an important environmental limiting factor that affects the physiological and biochemical response of medicinal plants and changes the process of plant secondary metabolism. In the present study, a pot experiment was conducted to evaluate the morphological, physiological, and phytochemical response of Mexican marigold (Tagetes minuta L.) to drought stress (100 %, 75 %, 50 %, and 25 % Field Capacity) with three replications based on a completely randomized design. After prolonged water deficit, growth responses, oxidative stress indicators, and phytochemical variations in unstressed and stressed plants were recorded. Decreasing of water availability had a negative effect on T. minuta growth. The photosynthesis pigments and relative water content of stressed plants were decreased, but the accumulation of malondialdehyde, osmolyte compounds, and total phenol content were increased with increasing water limitation. The activity of catalase, guaiacol peroxidase, ascorbate peroxidase, and polyphenol oxidase in stressed T. minuta plants was also increased in response to drought stress. Although water limitation did not show a considerable effect on the essential oil content of T. minuta, the essential oil composition was significantly influenced by drought stress and dihydrotagetone was the main constituent in all essential oil samples. Drought stress changed the relative proportions of essential oil constituents and induced synthesis of new constituents included 1,8-cineole and germacrene D. Taken together, our findings suggested that the 75 % FC treatment can be introduced as an acceptable drought level that T. minuta showed sufficient resistance.

Efficacy and safety of ferric citrate hydrate compared with sodium ferrous citrate in Japanese patients with iron deficiency anemia: a randomized, double-blind, phase 3 non-inferiority study

Oral iron preparations are used as first-line treatment for iron deficiency anemia (IDA), but their gastrointestinal side effects prevent patients from appropriate adherence. We recently conducted a randomized, double-blind, phase 3 non-inferiority study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of two dosages of ferric citrate hydrate (FC) compared with sodium ferrous citrate (SF) in patients with IDA. FC at both 500 and 1000 mg/day was non-inferior to SF at 100 mg/day in terms of the change in the hemoglobin concentration at Week 7 from baseline. Logistic regression analysis suggested that the cumulative proportion of patients who achieved the target hemoglobin concentration (≥ 13.0 g/dL in male patients and ≥ 12.0 g/dL in female patients) at Week 7 was highest among those treated with FC at 1000 mg/day, followed by SF at 100 mg/day and FC at 500 mg/day. Both dosages of FC were well tolerated in patients with IDA. The incidences of nausea and vomiting were significantly lower in the FC treatment groups than in the SF group. In conclusion, FC has potential to be an oral iron preparation with sufficient efficacy for the treatment of IDA and a lower risk of nausea and vomiting.

Inverse planning in Gamma Knife radiosurgery: A comparative planning study.

To determine the advantages of inverse planning using a prerelease version of Leksell Gamma Knife® (LGK) Lightning (Elekta AB, Sweden) compared to manual forward planning. Thirty-eight patients with metastases (MET, n=15), vestibular schwannomas (VS, n=11) and meningiomas (MEN, n=12), treated with LGK Icon™ at our institution, were analyzed retrospectively. For each case, an inverse (inv) and inverse full coverage (fc) treatment plan was generated using LGK Lightning and compared to the clinical plans. Several dosimetry and efficiency characteristics were compared for each indication. The mean, median difference and interquartile range were reported and the significance was assessed with a paired-sample Wilcoxon test (significance level<0.05). Further, the inter operator variability was analyzed for multiple users. Inv and fc treatment plans show improved target coverage (up to 3.6%) for all analyzed paradigms. For inv plans, the selectivity is enhanced (MET: 2.9%; VS: 1.8%; MEN: 1%) and the organ at risk doses are significantly reduced (VS: up to 4.5%; MEN: up to 17.5%). For inv and fc plans, the beam on time (BOT) is shortened (MET: up to 7.9%; benign tumors: 49.5%). The inter operator variability analysis shows similar treatment plan quality with small differences in plan efficiency (difference in BOT: 1-3.3min). LGK Lightning allows to generate improved LGK treatment plans regarding plan quality with reduced BOT compared to manual forward plans. The inter operator variability showed that multiple users with different experiences can generate similar treatment plan quality using LGK Lightning.

N2O and NO Emissions as Affected by the Continuous Combined Application of Organic and Mineral N Fertilizer to a Soil on the North China Plain

A field experiment was conducted to evaluate the influence of the continuous application of organic and mineral N fertilizer on N2O and NO emissions under maize and wheat rotation on the North China Plain. This study included eight treatments: no fertilizer (control); mineral N fertilizer (Nmin) at a rate of 200 kg N ha−1 per season; 50% mineral fertilizer N plus 50% cattle manure N (50% CM), 50% chicken manure N (50% FC) or 50% pig manure N (50% FP); 75% mineral fertilizer N plus 25% cattle manure N (25% CM), 25% chicken manure N (25% FC) or 25% pig manure N (25% FP). The annual N2O and NO emissions were 2.71 and 0.39 kg N ha−1, respectively, under the Nmin treatment, with an emission factor of 0.50% for N2O and 0.07% for NO. Compared with the Nmin treatment, N2O emissions did not differ when 50% of the mineral N was replaced with manure N (50% CM, 50% FC and 50% FP), while annual NO emissions were significantly reduced by 49.0% and 27.8% under 50% FC and 50% FP, respectively. In contrast, annual N2O emissions decreased by 21–38% compared to the Nmin treatment when 25% of the mineral N was replaced with manure N (25% CM, 25% FC and 25% FP). Most of the reduction occurred during the maize season. The 25% CM, 25% FC and 25% FP treatments had no effect on NO emissions compared to the Nmin treatment. There was no obvious difference in annual N2O and NO emissions among the organic manures at the same application rate, probably due to their similar C/N ratio. Replacing a portion of the mineral fertilizer N with organic fertilizer N did not significantly affect crop grain yield, except for the 50% FC treatment in the wheat season. Overall, the results suggest that the combined application of 25% organic manure N plus 75% mineral fertilizer N had the most potential to mitigate N2O emissions while not affecting crop yield in the maize and wheat rotation system in this area of China.

Interleukin 22 mitigates endothelial glycocalyx shedding after lipopolysaccharide injury.

The endothelial glycocalyx (EG) on the luminal surface of endothelial cells contributes to the permeability barrier of vessels and prevents activation of the coagulation cascade. Endothelial glycocalyx damage, which occurs in the shock state, results in endotheliopathy. Interleukin (IL)-22 is a cytokine with both proinflammatory and anti-inflammatory properties, and how IL-22 affects the EG has not been studied. We hypothesized that IL-22:Fc, a recombinant fusion protein with human IL-22 and the Fc portion of human immunoglobulin G1 (which extends the protein half-life), would not affect EG shedding in endothelium after injury. Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were exposed to 1 μg/mL lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Lipopolysaccharide-injured cells (n = 284) were compared with HUVECs with LPS injury plus 0.375 μg/mL of IL-22:Fc treatment (n = 293) for 12 hours. These two cohorts were compared with control HUVECs (n = 286) and HUVECs exposed to IL-22:Fc alone (n = 269). Cells were fixed and stained with fluorescein isothiocyanate-labeled wheat germ agglutinin to quantify EG. Total RNA was collected, and select messenger RNAs were quantified by real time - quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) using SYBR green fluorescence. Exposure of HUVECs to LPS resulted in degradation of the EG compared with control (5.86 vs. 6.09 arbitrary unit [AU], p = 0.01). Interleukin-22:Fc alone also resulted in degradation of EG (5.08 vs. 6.09 AU, p = 0.01). Treatment with IL-22:Fc after LPS injury resulted in less degradation of EG compared with LPS injury alone (5.86 vs. 5.08 AU, p = 0.002). Expression of the IL-22Ra1 receptor was not different for IL-22:Fc treated compared with LPS injury only (0.69 vs. 0.86 relative expression, p = 0.10). Treatment with IL-22:Fc after LPS injury resulted in less matrix metalloproteinase 2 (0.79 vs. 1.70 relative expression, p = 0.005) and matrix metalloproteinase 14 (0.94 vs. 2.04 relative expression, p = 0.02). Interleukin-22:Fc alone induces EG degradation. However, IL-22:Fc treatment after LPS injury appears to mitigate EG degradation. This protective effect appears to be mediated via reduced expression of metalloproteinases.

The use of stoichiometric bioenergetics to elucidate metabolic energy substrate use and specific dynamic action in cultured juvenile spiny lobsters (Sagmariasus verreauxi) of different nutritional status

Simultaneous measurements of nitrogenous (ammonia and urea) excretion and respiratory gas (O2 and CO2) exchange provide a non-destructive stoichiometric bioenergetic approach to elucidate metabolic energy substrate use which has rarely been used with aquatic ectotherms due to previous difficulties in measuring total CO2 excretion. This study examined metabolic energy substrate use and specific dynamic action (SDA) in cultured spiny lobster, Sagmariasus verreauxi, of different nutritional status. SDA magnitude calculated by stoichiometry was compared to a traditional composite oxycalorific coefficient approach. Protein synthesis can account for a large part of SDA in aquatic ectotherms. This study used a protein synthesis inhibitor cycloheximide to investigate the contribution of cycloheximide-sensitive protein synthesis to SDA and the effect of cycloheximide on nitrogenous and CO2 excretion. Lobsters were subjected to five treatments: 2-day fasted juveniles sham injected with saline (FS treatment); 2-day fasted juveniles injected with cycloheximide (FC treatment); 10-day starved juveniles injected with cycloheximide (SC treatment); post-prandial juveniles fed squid Nototodarus sloanii (FED treatment) and; post-prandial juveniles injected with cycloheximide (FEDC treatment). Protein was the primary energy substrate (65% of oxygen consumption) for 2-day fasted juveniles, with lipid accounting for the remainder (35%). After 10-day starvation lipid became the main substrate, indicating lipid oxidation increased with extended fasting. Following feeding, protein contribution remained above 50%, while lipid (0–43%) and carbohydrate (0–37%) provided significant energy at different time periods, indicating besides protein appropriate proportions of non-protein ingredients are also essential to lobsters. SDA magnitude in FED and FEDC treatments estimated by the traditional approach was 10.5 and 0.4 J g−1, respectively, indicating S. verreauxi expended 96% of post-prandial energy on protein synthesis and that decapod protein synthesis can account for one of the highest proportions of SDA in aquatic ectotherms. SDA magnitude in the FED treatment evaluated by stoichiometry (12.6 J g−1) was comparable to the traditional approach. Interestingly, stoichiometry was not applicable in the FEDC treatment as the respiratory quotient exceeded the theoretical maximum under aerobic conditions. Cycloheximide did not affect CO2 excretion among all treatments or nitrogenous excretion among unfed treatments, while the post-treatment total nitrogenous excretion reduced in fed lobsters. The combined measurement of substrate use and SDA potentially helps optimize the feed to achieve sustainable aquaculture. However, more research is required to decipher limitations and the applicability of stoichiometry for crustaceans.

Fire needle plus cupping for acute herpes zoster: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial

BackgroundAcute herpes zoster (AHZ) is a common skin disease caused by invasion of the varicella zoster virus into the ganglia and skin, and the severe pain is the most complaint, which can seriously disturb the normal life of patients. Fire needle plus cupping is a special acupuncture treatment, which is widely used to treat AHZ for its better analgesic effect in China although it has not been fully verified by rigorous randomized controlled trial (RCT).Methods/designTo test the effect, a three-arm randomized parallel controlled trial protocol has been designed. A total of 105 AHZ patients suffering pain will be randomly divided into three groups in an equal proportion. The interventions are fire needle plus cupping (FC) in group A, famciclovir plus gabapentin (FG) in group B, and fire needle plus cupping plus famciclovir (FCF) in group C. The length for the trial is set for a week time frame. Precisely speaking, the A group (FC) is to carry out 1 treatment per day for the total of 7 treatment sessions within 1 week period. On the other hand, the B group (FG) will take drugs orally three times a day within the trial 1 week. Meanwhile, with its combination element, the C group (FCF) is due to undertake both treatments and drugs as prescribed for A and B groups within the trial week. As an intra-trial arrangement, analgesic medication will be carefully administered for temporary pain release if the sudden intolerable pain appeared. For the primary outcome, this study is due to apply visual analogue scale to identify pain intensity relief. As the secondary outcomes are concerned, this study is aiming to focus on the issues related to changes in substance P and beta-endorphin concentrations in peripheral plasma, as well as those issues of analgesic needs, side effects, symptoms, and physical signs including pain classification, local itching, burning sensation, fever, local lymphadenopathy, skin lesion area, blisters, herpes clusters, vesicular traits, ulcers, and pimples; all these are taken into account for evaluation. For the final stage, the participants are to be followed up for postherpetic neuralgia.DiscussionThe results of this trial aim to provide sufficient evidence on FC treatment over both FG and FCF treatments. It will then give a credible alternative treatment to cut down acute pain and to cure AHZ infection.Trial registrationChinese Clinical Trial Registry ChiCTR1800015372. Registered on 28 March 2018.

Choice feeding in fattening pigs: Effect of diets differing in nutrient density on feeding behaviour and fattening performance

The aim of this study was to determine the proportion of feed consumed by pigs when they had the choice to meet their nutrient requirements offering a low (LND) or a high (HND) nutrient dense diet on animal performance and feeding behaviour. In total 120 barrows and gilts were allotted to three dietary treatments (LND, HND and a feed choice group, FC). Diets were calculated to keep a constant ratio of megajoule net energy (MJ NE) to nutrient standardised ileal digestible (SID) lysine, SID methionine and cysteine, SID threonine, SID tryptophan, Ca, available P and Na. Pigs of the feed choice treatment that could choose between LND and HND chose an energy content between 13.3 and 13.6 MJ ME or rather 10.1 and 10.4 MJ NE. The ratio between LND and HND changed during the growing period to a higher percentage of HND (26.2% : 73.8% in the starter, 22.0% : 78.0% in the grower and 20.0% : 80.0% in the finisher phase). No differences between barrows and gilts were detected regarding the selected diet. As a result, similar zootechnical performance data were observed for HND and FC, whereas LND led to a declined (P &amp;lt; 0.05) performance. Regarding the feeding behaviour no differences in the parameters meal size and daily feeder visits between LND and HND (P &amp;gt; 0.1) were observed. However, within the FC treatment more and greater meals were consumed (P &amp;lt; 0.05) at the HND feeder compared to the LND feeder. Pigs of modern genetics still have the ability to cover their nutrient requirements choosing between diets differing in nutrient density without impairing performance. Furthermore, the results give no indication for the necessity of different energy levels in diets for sexed pigs.

The effects of ephrinB2 signaling on proliferation and invasion in glioblastoma multiforme.

The aggressive nature of glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) may be attributed to the dysregulation of pathways driving both proliferation and invasion. EphrinB2, a membrane-bound ligand for some of the Eph receptors, has emerged as a critical target regulating these pathways. In this study, we investigated the role of ephrinB2 in regulating proliferation and invasion in GBM using intracranial and subcutaneous xenograft models. The Cancer Genome Atlas analysis suggested high transcript and low methylation levels of ephrinB2 as poor prognostic indicators in GBM, consistent with its role as an oncogene. EphrinB2 knockdown, however, increased tumor growth, an effect that was reversed by ephrinB2 Fc protein. This was associated with EphB4 receptor activation, consistent with the data showing a significant decrease in tumor growth with ephrinB2 overexpression. Mechanistic analyses showed that ephrinB2 knockdown has anti-invasive but pro-proliferative effects in GBM. EphB4 stimulation following ephrinB2 Fc treatment in ephrinB2 knockdown tumors was shown to impart strong anti-proliferative and anti-invasive effects, which correlated with decrease in PCNA, p-ERK, vimentin, Snail, Fak, and increase in the E-cadherin levels. Overall, our study suggests that ephrinB2 cannot be used as a sole therapeutic target. Concomitant inhibition of ephrinB2 signaling with EphB4 activation is required to achieve maximal therapeutic benefit in GBM.

Stress tolerant traits and root proliferation of Aspalathus linearis (Burm.f.) R. Dahlgren grown under differing moisture regimes and exposed to drought

In recent decades climate change has impacted ecosystems negatively globally with Mediterranean systems being particularly vulnerable. Changes in rainfall pattern and amounts have led to increases in flooding and droughts in certain areas of the world. Many important agricultural crops such as Aspalathus linearis (Burm.f.) R. Dahlgren, rooibos tea, rely on the Mediterranean-type seasonality in the Western Cape, South Africa. Aspalathus linearis plants, which occur naturally in the Cedarberg, grow in hot and dry summer conditions and have a root that penetrates the soil down to 2 m, yet no work has looked at the root response to drought under low rainfall environments. The objective of this study was to determine the physiological and morphological response of A. linearis plants grown at two different water regimes to drought. A potted glasshouse experiment was carried out where drought stress (withdrawing watering) was imposed on well-watered and low moisture supplied plants. The low moisture droughted plants exhibited drought tolerant mechanisms which included higher root/shoot ratios as well as thinner roots, both of which are effective for water and nutrient uptake. Overall, plants in the 30% FC treatment recorded lower Pmax, gs and E after three days in the drought conditions while 70% FC plants were only affected after five days. Furthermore, plants grown under low moisture conditions produced 50% lower biomass compared to plants grown under adequate moisture conditions. This implies that low rainfall and the occurrences of dry spells and drought, associated with climate change are likely to reduce the production of A. linearis in the Cederberg area.

بررسی تأثیر دو گونه قارچ میکوریزا-آربوسکولار در سطوح مختلف تنش رطوبتی بر برخی ویژگیهای رشدی ذرت

در شرایط تنش ، همزیستی گونه‌های قارچ میکوریزا-آربوسکولار با ریشه گیاه میزبان، تأثیر مستقیمی بر تحمل خشکی در گیاهان دارد. به‌منظور بررسی تأثیر دو گونه قارچ میکوریزا-آربوسکولار در سطوح مختلف تنش رطوبتی بر برخی ویژگی‌های رشدی ذرت، این آزمایش به‌صورت فاکتوریل با دو عامل در قالب طرح پایه کاملا تصادفی با پنج تکرار در شرایط گلخانه اجرا گردید. عامل اول مربوط به سطوح تنش رطوبتی شامل 60، 80 و 100% ظرفیت زراعی و عامل دوم مربوط به دو گونه قارچ میکوریزا شامل Glomus intraradices و Glomus mosseae و شاهد (عدم تلقیح) بودند. نتایج نشان داد که تنش رطوبتی موجب کاهش ارتفاع بوته و وزن خشک اندام هوایی به ترتیب به میزان13% و17% شد. تنش رطوبتی بر وزن خشک ریشه بی تاثیر بود ولی، قارچ‌های مایکوریزا وزن خشک ریشه را افزایش داده و تاثیر G. mosseae نسبت به گونه G. intraradices بیشتر بود. علیرغم افزایش شدت تنش رطوبتی، قارچ­های مایکوریزا شاخص کلروفیل SPAD را افزایش داد. بیشترین شاخص کلروفیل مربوط به تیمار تلقیح با قارچ G. mosseae در 0.6 ظرفیت زراعی معادل 37.02 بود. گیاه تلقیح شده با قارچ G. mosseae نسبت به G. intraradices کارایی بیشتری در حفظ رطوبت نسبی آب برگ در شرایط تنش رطوبتی داشت. بیشترین درصد کلونیزاسیون ریشه معادل 39.04 در تیمار تلقیح با قارچ mosseae G. در 60% رطوبت زراعی به دست آمد. به‌طورکلی، نتایج پیشنهاد می­کنند که در شرایط تنش رطوبتی، گونه G. mosseae قادر به برقراری ارتباط همزیستی مؤثرتری با ریشه گیاه ذرت تحت شرایط انجام این آزمایش بود.

TNF Receptor: Fc Fusion Protein Downregulates RANKL/OPG Ratio by Inhibiting CXCL16/CXCR6 in Active Ankylosing Spondylitis.

Clinical studies indicate that recombinant tumor necrosis factor receptor:Fc fusion protein (rhTNFR:Fc) quickly alleviates symptoms and physical signs of active Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS), improving the manifestation of spinal inflammation on radiological imaging. However, the regulatory mechanism of rhTNFR:Fc in the chemokine pathway is unclear. Thus we study the mechanism of phlogogenic activity of CXCL16/CXCR6 in AS and the related mechanism of rhTNFR: Fc treatment. Thirty-two cases of active AS were treated with rhTNFR:Fc for 3 consecutive months. Clinical response was evaluated at baseline and after treatment. CXCL16/CXCR6 expression as well as Receptor Activator Of Nuclear Factor-Κb Ligand (RANKL)/Osteoprotegerin (OPG), essential molecules for osteoclast differentiation, were studied in AS before and after treatment. Further, the proliferation of lymphocytes and the RANKL level stimulated by recombinant human CXCL16 (rhCXCL16) were measured in vitro. Thirty cases responded to rhTNFR:Fc treatment. The RANKL level, RANKL/OPG ratio, CXCLl6 level in serum, and CXCLl6 and CXCR6 mRNA levels in active AS were higher than those in controls and treated patients (P<0.001). rhCXCL16 treatment increased lymphocyte proliferation and RANKL level in active AS (P<0.001), but not in controls or treated patients (P>0.05). A positive linear correlation was noted between CXCL16 serum levels and RANKL/OPG ratio and between CXCL16 levels and C-reactive protein results (P<0.001). Our findings suggest that rhTNFR:Fc suppresses inflammation and bone destruction of AS by reducing the RANKL/OPG ratio through inhibition of the CXCL16/CXCR6 pathway.

Immune modulation after Toca 511 and Toca FC treatment of colorectal cancer patients.

186 Background: Toca 511 (vocimagene amiretrorepvec) is a cancer-selective, retroviral replicating vector encoding yeast cytosine deaminase that converts 5-fluorocytosine (5-FC) into 5-fluorouracil in the tumor microenvironment (TME). In animal models, Toca 511 and 5-FC kill dividing cancer and nearby immunosuppressive cells, leading to antitumor immune activity. A Phase 1 study of Toca 511 &amp; Toca FC (extended-release 5-FC) in patients with recurrent high grade glioma revealed results consistent with this proposed mechanism. A Phase 3 trial is ongoing. Methods: Toca 6 (NCT02576665) is a Phase 1b, single-arm, multicenter study designed to investigate immunological changes after Toca 511 &amp; Toca FC treatment in patients with advanced solid tumors, including colorectal cancer (CRC). Patients received intravenous (IV) Toca 511 for 3 days, and underwent biopsy of metastatic tumor before and ~ 4 weeks after starting oral Toca FC. Toca FC was repeated every 4-6 weeks. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells and tumor biopsies were evaluated for treatment related immune responses. Results: 17 CRC patients with a median 5 lines of prior chemotherapy were enrolled. At last data cut-off, 9 patients were alive and the median overall survival was 9.4 months. A patient receiving concomitant panitumumab had a partial response. IV Toca 511 led to viral expression in tumor, which decreased post-Toca FC while maintaining a reservoir of virus in the remaining tumor. T cells shifted from naïve to effector phenotypes, CD4 memory T cells expanded, and/or B cells increased after Toca FC treatment in 36% of patients. Marked changes in tumor infiltrating cells (CD11b myeloid cells, Tregs, exhausted T cells and CD8 T cells) occurred after Toca FC treatment. Treatment has been generally well tolerated. We also plan to report insights gained from RNA analysis of TME and update on clinical finding. Conclusions: Clinical data suggest a signal of activity in these heavily pretreated CRC patients warranting further exploration. IV Toca 511 administration showed viral infection of CRC metastatic tumor. Toca 511 &amp; Toca FC may be associated with T cell mediated immune activity in peripheral blood and metastatic tumor, consistent with pre-clinical data in multiple tumor types. Clinical trial information: NCT02576665.

Evaluation of chilli (Capsicum annuum L.) and its wild relatives for yield and drought tolerance

Chilli (Capsicum annuum L.), one of the most important vegetable cum spice crops belongs to the family Solanaceae. Drought is an important abiotic stress that causes reduction in plant growth and yield and also leads to decline in several physiological and biochemical characters. The plants imposed with 100% FC recorded higher average plant height of 86.97 cm than 50% field capacity plants (64.07cm). The results revealed that genotypes AVPP9813 recorded 81.20 days for first flowering followed by EC-320525 (81.60 days). For number of fruits per plant at 100% FC the more number of fruits per plant of 110.40 was noticed in IC-119233 and the lowest was recorded in VI047102 (14.60). The highest green fruit yield per plant of 404.06 g was exhibited by IC-119233 while the least value of 48.66 g was noted in the genotype VI059328 at control. The highest relative water content was exhibited by Arka Lohit (72.24 per cent) followed by EC-362917 (72.19 per cent) while IC-119233 reported the lowest value of 62.09 per cent in 100% FC. However, 50% FC treatment, EC-362917 recorded highest relative water content of 71.48 per cent. For chlorophyll stability index IC-119231 recorded the highest value (71.04 per cent) and the lowest was registered by IC-119234 (55.46 per cent).

Comparative efficacy of chronic lymphocytic leukemia treatment with or without rituximab

Background. Monoclonal antibodies are modern drugs for the treatment of chronic lymphocytic leukemia. The objective is a comparative study of the monoclonal antibody rituximab efficacy when added to cyclophosphamide + fludarabine (RFC versus FC regimen) in the treatment of chronic lymphocytic leukemia. Materials and methods. A retrospective study was conducted in Clinical Medical Unit No. 1 of Perm. In total, the response to treatment was analyzed in 22patients (11 patients in each group (FC and RFC therapy)). Results. Adding rituximab to the FC treatment regimen reduced the number of lymphocytes below 4 х 10 9/L after the 1st course, while maintaining the neutrophil level above 1.5 х 109/L, the absence of anemia (hemoglobin level &gt;130 g/L) and thrombocytopenia (platelet count &gt; 100 х 109/L). An additional assessment of creatinine and uric acid levels showed the absence of tumor lysis syndrome during RFC therapy. Conclusion. The addition of rituximab (RFC therapy) to cyclophosphamide + fludarabine (FC therapy) provides a more rapid therapy response without adverse toxic effects such as impact on bone marrow functional activity and tumor lysis syndrome.