Significant Increase In Height Research Articles

Inactivation of Tnf‐α/Tnfr signaling attenuates progression of intervertebral disc degeneration in mice

AbstractBackgroundIntervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) is a major cause of low back pain (LBP), worsened by chronic inflammatory processes associated with aging. Tumor necrosis factor alpha (Tnf‐α) and its receptors, Tnf receptor type 1 (Tnfr1) and Tnf receptor type 2 (Tnfr2), are upregulated in IVDD. However, its pathologic mechanisms remain poorly defined.MethodsTo investigate the role of Tnfr in IVDD, we generated global Tnfr1/2 double knockout (KO) mice and age‐matched control C57BL/6 male mice, and analyzed intervertebral disc (IVD)‐related phenotypes of both genotypes under physiological conditions, aging, and lumbar spine instability (LSI) model through histological and immunofluorescence analyses and μCT imaging. Expression levels of key extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins in aged and LSI mice, especially markers of cell proliferation and apoptosis, were evaluated in aged (21‐month‐old) mice.ResultsAt 4 months, KO and control mice showed no marked differences of IVDD‐related parameters. However, at 21 months of age, the loss of Tnfr expression significantly alleviated IVDD‐like phenotypes, including a significant increase in height of the nucleus pulposus (NPs) and reductions of endplates (EPs) porosity and histopathological scores, when compared to controls. Tnfr deficiency promoted anabolic metabolism of the ECM proteins and suppressed ECM catabolism. Tnfr loss largely inhibited hypertrophic differentiation, and, in the meantime, suppressed cell apoptosis and cellular senescence in the annulus fibrosis, NP, and EP tissues without affecting cell proliferation. Similar results were observed in the LSI model, where Tnfr deficiency significantly alleviated IVDD and enhanced ECM anabolic metabolism while suppressing catabolism.ConclusionThe deletion of Tnfr mitigates age‐related and LSI‐induced IVDD, as evidenced by preserved IVD structure, and improved ECM integrity. These findings suggest a crucial role of Tnf‐α/Tnfr signaling in IVDD pathogenesis in mice. Targeting this pathway may be a novel strategy for IVDD prevention and treatment.

Evaluation of Growth Characteristics and Final Heights of Cases Diagnosed with Noonan Syndrome on GH Treatment.

Proportional short stature is one of the most important features of Noonan Syndrome, and adult height often remains below the 3rd percentile. Although the pathophysiology of short stature in NS patients is not fully understood, it has been shown that GH treatment is beneficial in NS, and it significantly improves the height in respect to the results of short and long-term GH treatment. In this study, the efficacy of GH therapy was evaluated in children and adolescents with Noonan syndrome who attained final height. In this national cohort study, 67 cases with NS who reached final height from 14 centers were evaluated. A total of 53 cases (mean follow-up time 5.6 years) received GH treatment. Height SDS of the subjects who were started on GH tended to be shorter than those who did not receive GH (-3.26± 1.07 vs. -2.53 ±1.23) at initial presentation. The mean final height and final height SDS in girls using GH vs those not using GH were 150.1 cm and -2.17 SD vs 47.4 cm and-2.8 SD, respectively. The mean final height and final height SDS in boys using GH vs. not using GH were 162.48 ± 6.19 cm and -1.81 SD vs 157.46 ± 10.16 cm and -2.68 ± 1.42 SD, respectively. The Δheight SDS value of the cases was significantly higher in the group receiving GH than in those not receiving GH (1.36 ± 1.12 SD vs. -0.2 ± 1.24, p<0.001). Cardiac findings remained stable in two patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy who received GH treatment. No significant side effects were observed in the cases during follow-up. In patients with Noonan syndrome who reach their final height, a significant increase in height is observed with GH treatment, and an increase of approximately +1.4 SDS can be achieved. It has been concluded that GH treatment is safe and effective.

Effects of multi-component passivator on heavy metal passivation, compost quality and plant growth

Direct land application of conventional compost may cause ecological risks due to the presence of heavy metals. To effectively reduce heavy metal bioavailability in compost, a multi-component passivator comprising Candida utilis, sodium humate, zeolite and attapulgite was developed, which showed passivation rates of 59.28%, 86.93% and 38.95% for zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), and ferrum (Fe), respectively, in compost. The addition of customized multi-component passivator in compost not only reduced the mobility of heavy metals, but also improved the quality of the compost and further increased the abundance of lignocellulose-degrading beneficial microorganisms in compost. Subsequent fertilization results showed that the compost product fermented with customized multi-component passivator greatly improved the growth of Chinese cabbage, with significant increases in height, weight, root length, and total chlorophyll contents of 97.63%, 210.13%, 20.42%, and 40.38%, respectively. It can be concluded that the custom-made multi-component passivator is expected to be a good additive for heavy metal passivation, high-quality compost, and plant growth.

Effect of Soil Fertility on the Growth Characteristics of Two Young Trees of the Neem Family

To select tree species suitable for growth under Chinese ephedra forests, this study set up three soil fertility treatments: pure sandy soil, V (sand): V (fertilizer) = 3:1, and V (sand): V (fertilizer) = 1:1, to investigate the effects of different soil fertility levels on the growth characteristics of two tree species, Azadirachta indica A. Juss (neem) and Melia azedarach (chinaberry). The results show that: (1) Under low light conditions and pure sandy soil, the height and basal diameter of neem significantly increased, while chinaberry showed a significant increase in height and basal diameter under the V (sand): V (fertilizer) = 1:1 condition. (2) Under the V (sand): V (fertilizer) = 1:1 condition, both neem and chinaberry exhibited maximum leaf growth characteristics, while there was a decreasing trend under the V (sand): V (fertilizer) = 3:1 condition. These results indicate that neem is more suitable for growth in pure sandy soil and is more tolerant to poor soil conditions, while chinaberry thrives under the V (sand): V (fertilizer) = 1:1 condition. This preliminary selection provides a theoretical basis for the initial screening of tree species for coastal defense forests.

Potencial Simbiótico de Microrganismos do Solo na Promoção do Crescimento de Espécies Arbóreas da Mata Atlântica

The objective of this study was to evaluate the potential of topsoil obtained from a natural forest fragment in the Brazilian Atlantic Forest to serve as a source of symbiotic microorganisms capable of promoting the growth of native tree species in ecological restoration projects. In greenhouse conditions, 14 experiments in a completely randomized design were conducted in 1,700 cm³ pots filled with sterilized substrate. The effect of adding 80 g of topsoil, either in natura or sterilized, to the substrate was tested on the growth of 14 tree species. Plant height, stem diameter, mycorrhizal colonization and dry masses of shoot, roots, and nodules of tree species were measured. Applying the topsoil to the pots generally resulted in significant increases in height and stem diameter of seedlings compared to the control group during the four to six-month evaluation period. This effect was particularly greater in the nodulating species Plathymenia reticulata, Dalbergia nigra and Mimosa bimucronata, with increases in height and stem diameter of up to 328% and 484%, respectively. Forest topsoil also had a positive impact on the growth of shoot, roots, and nodules of the plants, significantly differing from the control groups. Only the plants that received the topsoil in natura exhibited mycorrhizal colonization and the formation of nodules in nitrogen-fixing species. These plants that established mycorrhizas and nodules presented higher concentrations of phosphorous and nitrogen in their biomass, respectively. Under controlled conditions, the use of forest topsoil proved to be a promising strategy for the introduction of microorganisms that can enhance the growth of tree species, thereby holding potential for implementation in nurseries and field settings.&#x0D; &#x0D;

Utilization of Eggshell-Derived Calcium Carbonate as an Eco-Friendly Fertilizer Enhancing Growth of Rosa Abientina, Rosa, and Fragaria × ananassa, and Soil Health

This research paper investigates the potential of eggshells as an eco-friendly fertilizer for enhancing the growth of Fragaria Ananassa (commonly known as strawberry), Rosa Abientina, and Rosa while also exploring its influence on soil microbial dynamics through calcium carbonate enrichment. The study employs a multifaceted approach, integrating greenhouse experiments and soil analyses to comprehensively assess the impact of eggshell-derived calcium carbonate on plant physiology and soil microbial communities. The findings aim to contribute valuable insights into sustainable agricultural practices and the utilization of organic waste materials for improved crop cultivation. Eggshell-derived calcium carbonate emerges as a compelling solution for environmentally mindful fertilization, offering multifaceted benefits in enhancing plant growth and fortifying soil health. By controlling the potential of kitchen waste repurposing, farmers can revolutionize agricultural practices, concurrently improving soil fertility while mitigating waste accumulation. This study's insights underscore the transformative potential of eggshell-based fertilizers, not only in optimizing agricultural productivity but also in fostering a sustainable approach to food production. Furthermore, the experimental findings reveal promising results, especially with species such as Rosa Abientina, Fragaria Ananass, and Rosa, where all three species showed a significant increase in height after being treated with powdered eggshells. This underscores the efficacy of eggshell-derived calcium carbonate in promoting robust growth across diverse plant species. Embracing these innovations holds promise for addressing the pressing challenges of environmental sustainability and global food security, marking a significant stride towards a more resilient and resource-efficient agricultural ecosystem.

Percutaneous short segmental fixation combined with bone cement augmentation for stage III Kümmell's disease without nerve deformity.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of percutaneous pedicle screw fixation combined with bone cement augmentation in the management of stage III Kümmell disease without nerve deformity. A retrospective analysis was conducted on 17 patients diagnosed with stage III Kümmell disease without nerve deformity, who underwent treatment with percutaneous pedicle screw fixation combined with bone cement augmentation between April 2019 and 2022. Preoperative, postoperative, and final follow-up clinical outcome measures were collected, including Visual Analog Scale scores and Oswestry Disability Index scores. Additionally, lateral radiography was used to measure the Cobb angle and height of the anterior border of the affected vertebral body. Operative time, volume of injected bone cement, intraoperative cement leakage, and other complications were recorded. All patients underwent successful surgery, resulting in significant reductions in Visual Analog Scale scores, Oswestry Disability Index scores, and Cobb angle postoperatively; meanwhile there was a significant increase in height of the anterior border of the affected vertebral body. No major complications occurred during the follow-up period. In conclusion, percutaneous pedicle screw short-segment fixation combined with bone cement augmentation appears to be an effective surgical option for treating stage III Kümmell disease without nerve deformities.

A Randomized Control Trial to Assess the Efficacy and Safety of Manna Go Grains to Promote Growth, Immunity, and Well-Being in Children

Objective: Nutrition in school-going children is crucial for their lifetime. India witnesses macro and micronutrient deficiencies in school-going children. The present study aims to evaluate the safety and efficacy of Manna go grains in promoting and improving growth, immunity, and well-being in children.&#x0D; Method: This was a 90-day randomized, controlled, parallel-arm clinical trial. 6-12 years old apparently healthy sixty-two children were randomized either into a test (Manna go grains plus milk) or a control group (milk) in a 1:1 ratio. We assessed changes in growth, immunity, appetite, and overall well-being before and after treatment.&#x0D; Result: The test group showed a significant increase in height, weight, height to age, and weight to age Z score and percentile, which was greater than the control group. There was significantly more improvement in VO2 max and appetite of children in the test group was observed as compared to the control group. A significant reduction in recurrent URTI episodes, sick days, recovery days, and missed school days was observed in the test group compared to the control. Memory questionnaire scores also increased significantly by 75% and 27.61% in the test and control groups. Test group parents reported significantly better growth, stamina, and immunity than the control group. There was clinically and statistically insignificant change in CBC, serum iron, serum calcium, and immunity markers like CD3, CD4, CD8, and IgG in both groups.&#x0D; Conclusion: Thus, Manna Go grains are thought to be a good candidate as a supplement for potentially stimulating growth and development in children and promoting their well-being.

45,X/46,XY mosaicism: Clinical manifestations and long term follow-up.

45,X/46,XY chromosomal mosaicism presents a range of clinical manifestations, including phenotypes from Turner syndrome through genital abnormalities to apparently unaffected phenotypic males; however, the full clinical spectrum has not yet been fully delineated since prior studies on the clinical phenotype and associated risk of gonadal tumors included small cohorts and limited follow-up. To better describe the clinical manifestations and long-term outcome of patients with 45,X/46,XY mosaicism. We conducted a retrospective chart review of patients with 45,X/46,XY from three health centers (Hospital for Sick Children and Mount Sinai Hospital in Canada, and University of Pittsburgh Medical Center in United States). Of 100 patients with 45,X/46,XY karyotype, 47 were raised as females and 53 as males. Females were significantly shorter than males (p = 0.04) and height Z-score was significantly decreased with age for both genders (p = 0.02). Growth hormone (GH) treatment did not result in a significant height increase compared to the untreated group (p = 0.5). All females required puberty induction in contrast to majority of males. Five females were diagnosed with gonadal tumors, while no males were affected. Around 58% of patients exhibited at least one Turner syndrome stigmata. This study expands the clinical spectrum, long-term outcomes, and associated tumor risk in a large cohort of patients with 45,X/46,XY mosaicism. Additionally, it highlights our experience with GH therapy and prophylactic gonadectomy.

Secular trends in the anthropometric characteristics of children in a rural community in Yucatan, Mexico.

To analyze changes in height, weight, and body mass index (BMI = kg/m2 ) from 1986 to 2022 in 3-11 year old children from Dzeal, a rural Maya community in Yucatan, Mexico. From October-2022 to February-2023 (third-wave survey), we obtained anthropometric measurements of children (n = 80) and family socioeconomic data and compared them with data obtained in 1986 (n = 38) and 2000 (n = 76). Comparisons of anthropometric parameters by sex between years of measurement were performed graphically and through one-way ANOVA, splitting children into two age groups: 3-7 and 8-11. Bonferroni adjustments for multiple comparisons were used when ANOVAs were statistically significant (p < .05). In girls, significant increases in height and weight between surveys were found in 3-7 and 8-11 age groups; in boys, significant increases were only found in the 8-11 age group. Regarding BMI, there were increases in 2022 compared with 1986/2000 in both sexes from 8 years onwards. Differences indicate increases of 3.9 and 4.4 cm per decade in girls aged 3-7 and 8-11, respectively, and increases in weight of 1.1 and 3.3 kg per decade, respectively. Increases in boys 8-11 years were 2.3 cm and 2.4 kg per decade. Significant increases in growth parameters were observed in specific-age children in the community studied in the context of changes in livelihoods and improvements in household material conditions.

Growth and slenderness index in sweet algarrobo, Neltuma flexuosa, according to the vermicompost percentage in the substrate and seed origin

Substrate composition and seed origin influence the morphological characteristics of future trees. This study aimed to quantify growth of sweet algarrobo plants, Neltuma flexuosa, obtained from seeds collected from two sites in Argentina and grown on substrates with varying vermicompost percentages. A completely randomized factorial design was used with four levels of vermicompost percentage (0; 20; 30; 70) and two levels of seed origin (Monte Comán, Mendoza and; Bolsón de Fiambalá, Catamarca) (n= 360). Height growth rate (from root neck to apex) (Delta height), root neck diameter growth rate (Delta diameter), and Slenderness index were measured for each plant. Results showed that northern sweet algarrobo specimens growing on vermicompost-enriched substrates had a significantly higher Delta height (p&lt;0.05). Additionally, northern specimens growing on 30-70% vermicompost-enriched substrates and southern specimens growing on 30% vermicompost-enriched substrates had a significantly higher Delta diameter compared to those growing on vermicompost-free substrates. Moreover, northern specimens growing on vermicompost-enriched substrates had a significantly higher slenderness index than southern specimens. Based on these findings, we recommend using seeds from the northern region and substrates with a minimum addition of 20% vermicompost for sweet algarrobo cultivation. Highlights: Twenty percent vermicomposting in Sandy load soil significantly increased height in flexuosa plants. Northen individuals presented a significant increase in height when the vermicomposting percentage in sandy load soil was equal to and higher than 20%. The vermicomposting percentage did not significantly affect flexuosa plants diameter at the root neck.

Utilization of palm oil mill effluent as growth media in budikdamber system

Palm oil mill effuent (POME) has the potential to become an environmental pollutant if left unutilized. This study aims to examine the effect of POME on catfish and water spinach growth in the bucket fish culture system (budikdamber). This research was conducted in August-November 2021, and comprises of acclimatization of fish, seeding, POME media preparation, rearing, observation, and data analysis. This study used a completely randomized design, consisting of four treatments and three replications. The treatments was the POME concentrations, consisting of Control (0 mg.L−1), A (1.565 mg.L−1), B (2.347 mg.L−1), and C (3.130 mg.L−1). The fish used were catfish measuring 5-7 cm totaling 20 fish/bucket, while the plant used was seedlings measuring 2-3 cm. Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA at 95% confidence level. The research parameters included the catfish Specific Growth Rate (SGR) and Survival Rate (SR), along with the height, number of branches, and leaves of water spinach. The results showed that the concentration of 3.130 mg.L−1 caused significant differences in fish and plant growth parameters. SGR of catfish decreased significantly at concentrations of 2.347 and 3.130 mg.L−1, meanwhile, SR of catfish was not significantly different. Concentrations of 1.565, 2.347, and 3.130 mg.L−1 showed a significant increase in height, branches, and leaves number of water spinach plants.

Increased cassava growth and yields through improved variety use and fertilizer application in the highlands of South Kivu, Democratic Republic of Congo

Nutrient limitations due to low soil fertility and insufficient fertilizer use widen cassava yield gaps in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo). This study was undertaken to investigate firstly the effects of variety and combined application of mineral fertilizer and organic (farm yard manure, FYM) inputs on cassava growth and yields, secondly to identify nutrient limitations to cassava production in the highland conditions of South Kivu, and thirdly to evaluate the economic benefits of the use of the improved variety and fertilizer in cassava production. Twenty-one multi-locational trials were conducted on farmers’ fields during two consecutive years. The use of an improved variety resulted in significant increases in both height and stem diameter in both years when fertilizer was applied; without fertilizer, both parameters were higher in the improved variety than in the local variety but only in the second year. Total biomass yield (storage root + stem) was significantly increased by 28% (11.2 t ha−1) through the use of an improved variety with fertilizer in the first year while in the second year, both total biomass and storage root yields were significantly increased by 58% (12.5 t ha−1) and 74% (9.8 t ha−1), respectively without fertilizer. Application of NPK+FYM resulted in significant increases in height and stem diameter over time, independent of the variety; and of total biomass, storage root and stem yields by 38% (11.5 t ha−1), 25% (5.1 t ha−1) and 63% (6.5 t ha−1), respectively relative to the unfertilized treatment. Sole application of mineral fertilizer and omission of macronutrients did not result in significant effects on storage root yields in both years. However, the application of NPK and NPK+ (Ca, Mg, S, Zn) significantly increased stem yield by 51% (6.0 t ha−1) and 56% (6.6 t ha−1), respectively while the omission of N significantly decreased both total biomass and stem yields by 31% (10.4 t ha−1) and 81% (8.0 t ha−1), respectively but only in the first year. Despite the lack of a significant response to applied N, P or K, addition of N and K increases storage root yield by 1.3 t ha−1 and 3.2 t ha−1 respectively (averages for both years). The findings reveal that the positive effects on cassava growth and yields and economic benefits from fertilizer are larger than the one from the choice of variety. Although the importance of combined application of mineral fertilizer and farm yard manure was demonstrated, no evidence of macronutrient limitations to cassava production was proven under the specific conditions of the study sites. A better understanding of the conditions under which positive effects of fertilizer occur can improve targeting and therefore achieve high profitability in cassava production.

Chemical Promotion of Branching and Stem Elongation of Poinsettia

Growers have traditionally used mechanical pinching and other cultural practices to control height and encourage branching for full and uniform poinsettia (Euphorbia pulcherrima) plants. A total of six experiments were conducted over 5 years to evaluate the impact of chemically treating poinsettia on final height, branching, first color, visible bud formation, and anthesis. The first four experiments evaluated the potential of benzyladenine (BA) and gibberellins [GA(4+7)] to increase height of treated poinsettia. Timing of the application was assessed during Expt. 1 using a combined concentration of 3 ppm BA and 3 ppm GA(4+7) applied at 5, 7, 9, or 11 weeks after pinching; some cultivars exhibited significantly more elongated inflorescences when treatment occurred 7 or 9 weeks after pinching. The application method and frequency was assessed during Expt. 2, and treatments were applied one or three times with either drench application at a concentration of 2 ppm or foliar application at a concentration of 5 ppm or untreated controls. All plants treated with three drench applications produced taller plants on average than when only applied once or when treated with a foliar application. Expt. 3 further assessed height gain and effects on flowering during late-season production with foliar applications of BA+GA(4 + 7) applied 2 weeks after first color at a concentration of 2 ppm compared with untreated control plants. One cultivar, Mars Red, was observed to have a significant decrease in days to anthesis when treated (9 days) compared with untreated plants, but no cultivars exhibited a significant change in height resulting from treatment. Expt. 4 assessed both the application method (foliar and drench) and change in final environment when plants were either maintained in a greenhouse or relocated to a postharvest room before anthesis. Most cultivars experienced a significant height increase when treated with foliar application of BA+GA(4 + 7) regardless of the final environment, but a significant delay in days to first color, visible bud, and anthesis was prevalent, and only one cultivar exhibited a treatment benefit from drench application with no significant delay in flowering or differences caused by changing environment. Expts. 5 and 6 were conducted over 2 growing years to evaluate the benefits of chemically pinching poinsettia using dikegulac sodium at a concentration of 800 ppm applied either once or twice (1 week apart) or 1600 ppm applied once to promote branching. The tallest plants were those treated one time at a concentration of 800 ppm showing lack of dominance in the apical meristem. The greatest number of shoots occurred when plants were treated with 800 ppm twice, whereas one application of 800 or 1600 ppm often, but not always, resulted in more shoots compared with mechanically pinched plants. Interestingly, the increased number of shoots from treated plants was often more than double the number compared with mechanical pinching, but those additional shoots failed to develop, which resulted in only one or two additional inflorescences. Production time was found to be a tradeoff because most dikegulac sodium-treated plants experienced an increased number of days to first color, visible bud, and/or anthesis. These results demonstrate that height control, whether to encourage stem elongation or halt apical dominance, is cultivar-specific, and that although both the method and concentration may be determined uniformly on some cultivars, the timing of application is crucial because of potential delays in floral development.

Changes in tongue morphology predict responses in pharyngeal patency to selective hypoglossal nerve stimulation.

The major goal of the study was to determine whether changes in tongue morphology under selective hypoglossal nerve therapy for obstructive sleep apnea were associated with alterations in airway patency during sleep when specific portions of the hypoglossal nerve were stimulated. This case series was conducted at the Johns Hopkins Sleep Disorders Center at Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center. Twelve patients with apnea implanted with a multichannel targeted hypoglossal nerve-stimulating system underwent midsagittal ultrasound tongue imaging during wakefulness. Changes in tongue shape were characterized by measuring the vertical height and polar dimensions between tongue surface and genioglossi origin in the mandible. Changes in patency were characterized by comparing airflow responses between stimulated and adjacent unstimulated breaths during non-rapid eye movement sleep. Two distinct morphologic responses were observed. Anterior tongue base and hyoid-bone movement (5.4 [0.4] to 4.1 [1.0] cm (median and [interquartile range]) with concomitant increases in tongue height (5.0 [0.9] to 5.6 [0.7] cm) were associated with decreases in airflow during stimulation. In contrast, comparable anterior hyoid movement (tongue protrusion from 5.8 [0.5] to 4.5 [0.9] cm) without significant increases in height (5.2 [1.6] to 4.6 [0.8] cm) were associated with marked increases in airflow during sleep. Tongue protrusion with preservation of tongue shape predicted increases in patency, whereas anterior movement with concomitant increases in height were associated with decreased pharyngeal patency. These findings suggest that pharyngeal patency can be best stabilized by stimulating lingual muscles that maintain tongue shape while protruding the tongue, thereby preventing it from prolapsing posteriorly during sleep. Fleury Curado T, Pham L, Otvos T, etal. Changes in tongue morphology predict responses in pharyngeal patency to selective hypoglossal nerve stimulation. J Clin Sleep Med. 2023;19(5):947-955.

Effect of interleukin-1 antagonist on growth of children with colchicine resistant or intolerant FMF

IntroductionFamilial Mediterranean Fever (FMF) is the most common monogentic autoinflammatory disease. FMF results from mutations in MEFV, which lead to a pro-inflammatory state and increased production of Interleukin 1 beta subunit (IL-1b) by myeloid cells. Despite the overall positive results obtained with anti-IL-1 agents in FMF patients, little is known about the long-term growth impact of these drugs in the pediatric population.ObjectivesTo assess the long-term body weight and height trajectories in children with FMF treated with anti-IL-1 agents.MethodsWe conducted a retrospective analysis of 646 pediatric FMF patients followed in our center, of whom 22 were treated with either anakinra (36.3%) and/or canakinumab (90.9%). Patients were assessed for demographic, clinical and genetic characteristics and were followed for a mean of 3.05 ± 1.75 years. Data of height and weight percentiles were recorded before and after treatment.ResultsThe most common indication for IL-1 blockers treatment was colchicine resistance (66.6%). Ninety percent of those patients had a moderate or severe disease according to the Pras score and had higher proportion of M694V homozygosity compared with patients who did not require anti IL-1 agents (95.2% vs. 30.5%, p < 0.001). Overall, anakinra and canakinumab resulted in a complete response in 80% of patients and exhibited low rates of adverse effects. We found a significant increase in height and body weight percentiles following treatment (19.6 ± 16% vs. 30.8 ± 23%, p = 0.007, and 29.5 ± 30% vs. 39.1 ± 36%, p = 0.043, respectively).ConclusionTreatment with anti-IL-1 agents in children with FMF is effective and safe and may potentiate long-term growth.

РОСТ ПОЛУСИБСОВЫХ ПОТОМСТВ СОСНЫ ОБЫКНОВЕННОЙ В ИСПЫТАТЕЛЬНЫХ КУЛЬТУРАХ СЕВЕРНОГО КАЗАХСТАНА

The article discusses the main taxation indicators of half-sibs at the age of 36 years. The total viability of all families is 51.5%, the average height is 17.04 ± 0.13 m, and average trunk diameter at a height of 1.3 m is 19.97 ± 0.21 cm. A high negative correlation (r = -0.68) was found with respect to the trunk diameter and viability indicators. It was found that the height growth of half-sibs is influenced by genotype by 30.6%, and the diameter growth - by 15.6%. A significant increase in height compared to the control was observed in 40.7% of families, while a minor increase in trunk diameter was noted in a small portion of families - 5.6%. The selective height improvement effect amounted to 8.8%, and for trunk diameter, it was 13.5%. It was determined that the offspring of plus trees obtained in the same year with free pollination in a natural plantation and a collection plot (clone of a plus tree) had both low and high overall combining ability, depending on the pollinator. Based on the results obtained, it is concluded that it is impractical to separate families from the same plus tree depending on the origin when assessing their growth.

Growth hormone treatment improves final height in children with X-linked hypophosphatemia

Background/aimDespite optimal conventional treatment (oral phosphate supplements and active vitamin D analogs), about 40–50% of children with well-controlled X-linked hypophosphatemia (XLH) show linear growth failure, making them less likely to achieve an acceptable final height. Here, we studied the hypothesis that rhGH treatment improves final height in children with XLH and growth failure.MethodsTwo cohorts of children with XLH were included in this retrospective longitudinal analysis: (1) a cohort treated with rhGH for short stature (n = 34) and (2) a cohort not treated with rhGH (n = 29). The mean duration of rhGH treatment was 4.4 ± 2.9 years. We collected the auxological parameters at various time points during follow-up until final height.ResultsIn rhGH-treated children, 2 years of rhGH therapy was associated with a significant increase in height from − 2.4 ± 0.9 to − 1.5 ± 0.7 SDS (p < 0.001). Their mean height at rhGH discontinuation was − 1.2 ± 0.9 SDS and at final height was − 1.3 ± 0.9 SDS corresponding to 165.5 ± 6.4 cm in boys and 155.5 ± 6.3 cm in girls. Notably, the two groups had similar final heights; i.e., the final height in children not treated with rhGH being − 1.2 ± 1.1 SDS (165.4 ± 6.8 cm in boys and 153.7 ± 7.8 cm in girls), p = 0.7.ConclusionTreatment with rhGH permits to improve final height in children with XLH and growth failure, despite optimal conventional treatment. We propose therefore that rhGH therapy could be considered as an option for short stature in the context of XLH.

Use and evaluation of new organic fertilizers in the cultivation of Abelmoschus esculenthus (Okra)

Research objective: The objective of this work was to evaluate the properties and effect of certain organic fertilizers that can be used in organic farming in comparison with fertilizers of inorganic origin on Abelmoschus esculenthus plants. In addition, the interactions that can develop with microorganisms in the rhizosphere and the possible beneficial effects on transplant stress, nutrient uptake by roots and reduction of plant mortality were investigated. Materials and Methods: The experiments, which began in May 2022, were conducted in the greenhouses of CREA-OF in Pescia on plants placed in pots 12 cm in diameter and on which fertilizers of organic and inorganic origin were evaluated. In September 2022, plant height, number of leaves, leaf surface area, vegetative weight, root volume, root length, seeds per plant, number, weight, girth and length of pods, total substrate bacteria, substrate pH and number of dead plants were analysed. Results and Discussion: The experiment showed that the application of organic nitrogen and potassium fertilizers can significantly improve the quality and yield of Abelmoschus esculenthus plants. In general, a significant increase in height and vegetative and root growth of the plants was observed, especially in nitrogen and potassium synthesis, with an improvement also in the number of fruits and seeds per plant. Plant mortality also decreased significantly compared to the control with synthetic fertilizers, and microbial colonisation of the substrate increased, which probably affected the plants by influencing both vegetative and root growth and defence against biotic stressors. Conclusions: Organic fertiliser trials showed that these products can significantly improve plant growth by positively affecting the soil microbial component. This is an additional opportunity, especially for those farmers who not only seek to reduce the use of synthetic fertilizers, but also want to use sustainable techniques that better preserve plants and soils, while guaranteeing the production of quality products.

Growth hormone treatment improves final height in children with X-linked hypophosphatemia

Despite optimal conventional treatment (oral phosphate supplements and active vitamin D analogs), about 40–50% of children with well-controlled X-linked hypophosphatemia (XLH) show linear growth failure, making them less likely to achieve an acceptable final height. Here, we studied the hypothesis that rhGH treatment improves final height in children with XLH and growth failure. Two cohorts of children with XLH were included in this retrospective longitudinal analysis: (1) a cohort treated with rhGH for short stature ( n = 34); and (2) a cohort not treated with rhGH ( n = 29). The mean duration of rhGH treatment was 4.4 ± 2.9 years. We collected the auxological parameters at various time points during follow-up to final height. In rhGH-treated children, 2 years of rhGH therapy was associated with significant increases in height from −2.4 ± 0.9 to −1.5 ± 0.7 SDS ( P < 0.001). Their mean height at rhGH discontinuation was −1.2 ± 0.9 SDS and at final height was −1.3 ± 0.9 SDS (160.4 ± 8.0 cm). Notably, the two groups had similar final heights, the final height in children not treated with rhGH being −1.2 ± 1.1 SDS (157.8 ± 9.2 cm), P = 0.7. Treatment with rhGH significantly increases final height in children with XLH and growth failure, despite optimal conventional treatment. We propose therefore that rhGH therapy could be an appropriate option for short stature in the context of XLH.