Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Elderly Medical Admissions and Outcomes in a Tertiary Hospital in Northeastern Nigeria: A Comparative Retrospective Study.

BACKGROUND: The coronavirus infectious disease 2019 (COVID-19) has been shown to be more lethal in the elderly (>65 years), especially those with co-morbidities. This study examined the impact of the pandemic lockdown period on trends in elderly medical admissions and deaths. METHODOLOGY: This is a retrospective study of elderly medical admissions and deaths in the medical wards of a Nigerian hospital. Data for the months of March, April, May, June, and July of 2020 was compared to the same months before (2019) and after (2021). Analysis was done using STATA version 15.0. RESULTS: During the study period, two hundred and seventy-six elderly patients were admitted, with a mean age (±SD) of 73.4 ± 7.4 years. The most common diagnoses at admission were chronic kidney disease (CKD) (26.85%, n=74) and hypertensive heart disease (HHD) (21.7%, n=60). The highest admission was in 2021, with a total of 99 (35.9%). Overall, 60 mortalities were recorded, with a proportional mortality rate of 21.7%, which was highest in 2020 (25.0%) and lowest in 2021 (17.1%). There was no difference between the mortality rates of 2019 versus 2020 (P=0.82) and 2020 versus 2021(P=0.18). Sepsis (35.0%) and CKD (25.0%) were the major contributors in 2019. CONCLUSION: CKD and HHD were the most common diagnoses at admission, whereas sepsis, CKD, and CVD were the commonest causes of death. The Covid-19 pandemic did not significantly alter the elderly admission pattern in our setting.

CONTEXTE: Il a été démontré que la maladie infectieuse à coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) est plus mortelle chez les personnes âgées (>65 ans), en particulier celles qui présentent des comorbidités. Cette étude a examiné l'impact de la période de verrouillage pandémique sur les tendances des admissions médicales et des décès de personnes âgées. MÉTHODOLOGIE: Il s'agit d'une étude rétrospective des admissions et des décès de personnes âgées dans les services médicaux d'un hôpital nigérian. Les données relatives aux personnes âgées pour les mois de mars, avril, mai, juin et juillet 2020 ont été comparées aux mêmes mois avant (2019) et après (2021). L'analyse a été réalisée à l'aide de STATA version 15.0. RÉSULTATS: Au cours de la période, deux cent soixante-seize patients âgés ont été admis, avec un âge moyen et un écart-type (ET) de 73,4 7,4 ans. Les diagnostics les plus fréquents à l'admission étaient l'insuffisance rénale chronique (IRC) (26,85 %, n=74) et la cardiopathie hypertensive (HHD) (21,7 %, n=60). Le nombre d'admissions le plus élevé a été enregistré en 2021, avec un total de 99 (35,9 %). Au total, 60 décès ont été enregistrés, avec un taux de mortalité proportionnel de 21,7 %, qui était le plus élevé en 2020 (25,0 %) et le plus faible en 2021 (17,1 %). Les preuves étaient insuffisantes pour montrer une différence entre les taux de mortalité de 2019 par rapport à 2020 (P=0,82) et de 2020 par rapport à 2021 (P=0,18). Le sepsis (35,0 %) et l'IRC (25,0 %) étaient les principaux facteurs de mortalité en 2019. CONCLUSION: L'IRC et l'HHD étaient les diagnostics les plus courants à l'admission, tandis que la septicémie, l'IRC et les MCV étaient les causes les plus fréquentes de décès. La pandémie de Covid-19 n'a pas modifié de manière significative le schéma d'admission des personnes âgées dans notre contexte. Mots clés: COVID-19, Personnes âgées, Mode d'admission, Mortalité.

Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Elderly Medical Admissions and Outcomes in a Tertiary Hospital in Northeastern Nigeria: A Comparative Retrospective Study.

BACKGROUND: The coronavirus infectious disease 2019 (COVID-19) has been shown to be more lethal in the elderly (>65 years), especially those with co-morbidities. This study examined the impact of the pandemic lockdown period on trends in elderly medical admissions and deaths. METHODOLOGY: This is a retrospective study of elderly medical admissions and deaths in the medical wards of a Nigerian hospital. Data for the months of March, April, May, June, and July of 2020 was compared to the same months before (2019) and after (2021). Analysis was done using STATA version 15.0. RESULTS: During the study period, two hundred and seventy-six elderly patients were admitted, with a mean age (±SD) of 73.4 ± 7.4 years. The most common diagnoses at admission were chronic kidney disease (CKD) (26.85%, n=74) and hypertensive heart disease (HHD) (21.7%, n=60). The highest admission was in 2021, with a total of 99 (35.9%). Overall, 60 mortalities were recorded, with a proportional mortality rate of 21.7%, which was highest in 2020 (25.0%) and lowest in 2021 (17.1%). There was no difference between the mortality rates of 2019 versus 2020 (P=0.82) and 2020 versus 2021(P=0.18). Sepsis (35.0%) and CKD (25.0%) were the major contributors in 2019. CONCLUSION: CKD and HHD were the most common diagnoses at admission, whereas sepsis, CKD, and CVD were the commonest causes of death. The Covid-19 pandemic did not significantly alter the elderly admission pattern in our setting.

CONTEXTE: Il a été démontré que la maladie infectieuse à coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) est plus mortelle chez les personnes âgées (>65 ans), en particulier celles qui présentent des comorbidités. Cette étude a examiné l'impact de la période de verrouillage pandémique sur les tendances des admissions médicales et des décès de personnes âgées. MÉTHODOLOGIE: Il s'agit d'une étude rétrospective des admissions et des décès de personnes âgées dans les services médicaux d'un hôpital nigérian. Les données relatives aux personnes âgées pour les mois de mars, avril, mai, juin et juillet 2020 ont été comparées aux mêmes mois avant (2019) et après (2021). L'analyse a été réalisée à l'aide de STATA version 15.0. RÉSULTATS: Au cours de la période, deux cent soixante-seize patients âgés ont été admis, avec un âge moyen et un écart-type (ET) de 73,4 7,4 ans. Les diagnostics les plus fréquents à l'admission étaient l'insuffisance rénale chronique (IRC) (26,85 %, n=74) et la cardiopathie hypertensive (HHD) (21,7 %, n=60). Le nombre d'admissions le plus élevé a été enregistré en 2021, avec un total de 99 (35,9 %). Au total, 60 décès ont été enregistrés, avec un taux de mortalité proportionnel de 21,7 %, qui était le plus élevé en 2020 (25,0 %) et le plus faible en 2021 (17,1 %). Les preuves étaient insuffisantes pour montrer une différence entre les taux de mortalité de 2019 par rapport à 2020 (P=0,82) et de 2020 par rapport à 2021 (P=0,18). Le sepsis (35,0 %) et l'IRC (25,0 %) étaient les principaux facteurs de mortalité en 2019. CONCLUSION: L'IRC et l'HHD étaient les diagnostics les plus courants à l'admission, tandis que la septicémie, l'IRC et les MCV étaient les causes les plus fréquentes de décès. La pandémie de Covid-19 n'a pas modifié de manière significative le schéma d'admission des personnes âgées dans notre contexte. Mots clés: COVID-19, Personnes âgées, Mode d'admission, Mortalité.

Role of Antioxidant Enzymes and Glutathione S-Transferase in Bromoxynil Herbicide Stress Tolerance in Wheat Plants.

BACKGROUND: Numerous pesticides and herbicides used in excess cause oxidative stress in plants. These chemicals protect plants from weeds and pests, but they also have very negative side effects, making them common abiotic stressors. One of the most significant nutritional crops in the world is the wheat plant. Conditions of herbicide stress have a negative impact on the plant's phonological phases and metabolic pathways. Plants primarily make an effort to adjust to the environment and develop oxidative homeostasis, which supports stress tolerance. METHODS: When controlling broadleaf weeds that emerge after cereal crop plants have been planted, bromoxynil is frequently used as a selective-contact herbicide. This study looked at the effects of the cyanobacteria Arthrospira platensis and Nostoc muscorum aqueous extracts, tryptophan, and bromoxynil (Bh) alone or in combination on wheat plant growth parameters. Both tryptophan and cyanobacterial extract were used as chemical and natural safeners against Bh application. The antioxidant activity and transcriptome studies using qRT-PCR were assayed after 24, 48, 72, 96 h, and 15 days from Bh application in the vegetation stage of wheat plants (55 days old). RESULTS: In comparison with plants treated with Bh, wheat plants treated with cyanobacteria and tryptophan showed improvements in all growth parameters. Following application of Bh, wheat plants showed reduced glutathione content, as well as reduced antioxidant enzyme activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, and glutathione-s-transferase. The combination of different treatments and Bh caused alleviation of the harmful effect induced by Bh on the measured parameters. Additionally, the expression of glutathione synthase and glutathione peroxidase, in addition to those of three genes (Zeta, Tau, and Lambda) of the GST gene family, was significantly upregulated when using Bh alone or in combination with different treatments, particularly after 24 h of treatment. CONCLUSION: The current study suggests using cyanobacterial extracts, particularly the A. platensis extract, for the development of an antioxidant defense system against herbicide toxicity, which would improve the metabolic response of developed wheat plants.

Effect of twelve-week concurrent aerobic and resisted exercise training in non-dialysis day on functional capacity and quality of life in chronic kidney disease patients.

OBJECTIVE: Several researchers have evaluated the impact of exercise training on patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, few studies have evaluated the impact of concurrent training (aerobic and resisted exercise) on non-dialysis days on the functional capacity and quality of life (QOL) of such patients. Our current study evaluated the effects of concurrent training on functional capacity and QOL of patients with CKD. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Forty-three patients, aged ≥ 25 years, were recruited in this randomized study. They were divided into intervention and control groups (22 per group). The intervention group received concurrent aerobic and resistance exercises (three sessions per week for twelve weeks on alternative days). The control group continued their regular lifestyle practices and medical treatment without any exercise intervention. Before and after twelve weeks of training, the participant's functional capacity and quality of life (QOL) were measured. RESULTS: Compared to the control group, the intervention group displayed a significant improvement in the distance walked in the 6-minute walk test and sit-to-stand test (STS1/s and STS-60) with p<0.001; furthermore, a significant improvement was observed in physical function, body pain, general health, role functioning/physical, vitality, and social functioning (p<0.05) of QOL assessed with the SF-36 questionnaire. CONCLUSIONS: The twelve-week concurrent aerobic and resistance exercise training had a positive impact on functional capacity and QOL in CKD patients. Concurrent exercise training should be recommended as an interventional modality in physical therapy and rehabilitation protocols in CKD patients.

Mitigation of the salinity stress in rapeseed (Brassica napus L.) productivity by exogenous applications of bio-selenium nanoparticles during the early seedling stage.

In recent years, much attention has been directed toward using nanoparticles (NPs) as one of the most effective strategies to improve plant growth, especially under salt stress conditions. Further research has been conducted to develop NPs using various chemical ways; accordingly, knowledge about the beneficial effect of bioSeNPs in rapeseed is obscure. Selenium (Se) is a vital micronutrient with a series of physiological and antioxidative properties. Seed priming is emerging as a low-cost, efficient, and environment-friendly seed treatment in nanotechnology. The current study was carried out to examine the promising effects of nanopriming via bioSeNPs on the expression level of aquaporin genes, seed microstructure, seed germination, growth traits, physiochemical attributes, and minerals uptake of two rapeseed cultivars under salinity stress conditions. Our investigation monitored the positive effects of bioSeNPs on the expression level of aquaporin genes (BnPIP1-1 and BnPIP2-1) and water uptake during the seed imbibition (4 and 8 h of priming), which indicated higher imbibition potential and germination promotion with bioSeNPs application (most effective at 150 µmol/L). The total performance index was significantly enhanced with nano-treatments in rapeseed seedlings. Collectively, nano-application improved seed microstructure, seed germination, and photosynthetic efficiency directly correlated with higher seedlings biomass, especially with a higher concentration of bioSeNPs. The enhancement in α-amylase and free amino acid contents in nanoprimed seeds resulted in rapid seed germination. Moreover, bioSeNPs increased the osmotic adjustment and enhanced the efficiency of the plant's defense system by improving the activity of enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants, thus enhancing ROS scavenging under salt stress. The obtained results may indicate the strengthening of seed vigor, improving seedling growth and physiochemical attributes via bioSeNPs. Our findings displayed that bioSeNPs modulated the Na+ and K+ uptake, which improved the rapeseed growth and showed a close relationship with the low contents of toxic Na+ ion; thus, it prevented oxidative damage due to salt stress. This comprehensive data can add more knowledge to understand the mechanisms behind plant-bioSeNPs interaction and provide physiological evidence for the beneficial roles of nanopriming using bioSeNPs on rapeseed germination and seedling development under salinity stress conditions. Such studies can be used to develop simple prepackaged nano primer products, which can be used before sowing to boost seed germination and crop productivity under stress conditions.

Exploring the Potential Enhancing Effects of Trans-Zeatin and Silymarin on the Productivity and Antioxidant Defense Capacity of Cadmium-Stressed Wheat.

Pot trials were performed to explore the impacts of seed priming (SPr) plus leaf treatment (LTr) with trans-zeatin-type cytokinin (tZck; 0.05 mM) and silymarin (Sim; 0.5 mM) on growth, yield, physio-biochemical responses, and antioxidant defense systems in Cd-stressed wheat. tZck + Sim applied as SPr + LTr was more effective than individual treatments, and the impacts were more pronounced under stress conditions. Cd stress (0.6 mM) severely declined growth and yield traits, and photosynthesis efficiency (pigment contents, instantaneous carboxylation efficiency, and photochemical activity) compared to the control. These negative impacts coincided with increased levels of Cd2+, O2•- (superoxide), H2O2 (hydrogen peroxide), MDA (malondialdehyde), and EL (electrolyte leakage). Non-enzymatic and enzymatic antioxidant activities, and tZck and Sim contents were also increased. However, tZck + Sim increased photosynthesis efficiency, and further boosted antioxidant activities, and contents of tZck and Sim, while minimizing Cd2+ levels in roots, leaves, and grains. The levels of O2•-, H2O2, MDA, and EL were also minimized, reflecting positively on growth and productivity. tZck + Sim applied as SPr + LTr was highly effective in promoting antioxidants and photosynthesis machineries, minimizing oxidative stress biomarkers and Cd2+ levels, boosting tolerance to Cd stress, and improving wheat productivity under Cd stress.

Anxiety, depression and stress among internally displaced persons and host community in an armed conflict region: A comparative study.

This study compares the psychological profile of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and individuals living in host communities in the war-affected setting. We conducted a cross-sectional survey from October-November 2019. Subjects were recruited from six IDPs camps and the surrounding host communities within the metropolis of Maiduguri, Nigeria by convenience sampling. Data were collected using the Hausa version of Depression Anxiety Stress Scale-21, and analysed by logistic regression using adjusted odds ratio (AOR) at 95% Confidence Interval (CI). A total of 562 subjects were recruited. Living in IDP camp was the most significantly predictor of depression, anxiety, and stress. The common predictors were living in an IDP camp, and marital status (separated). Aged 18-29years was a protective factor compared to those ≥50years. Living in IDP camps, separated from partners, lack of education and pre-conflict employment were significant predictors of depression, anxiety and stress.

Third wave of COVID-19: mathematical model with optimal control strategy for reducing the disease burden in Nigeria.

The study of COVID-19 pandemic which paralyzed global economy of countries is a crucial research area for effective future planning against other epidemics. Unfortunately, we now have variants of the disease resulting to what is now known as waves of the pandemic. Several mathematical models have been developed to study this disease. While recent models incorporated control measures, others are without optimal control measures or demographic parameters. In this study, we propose a deterministic compartmental epidemiological model to study the transmission dynamic of the spread of the third wave of the pandemic in Nigeria, and we incorporated optimal control measures as strategies to reduce the burden of the deadly disease. Specifically, we investigated the transmission dynamics of COVID-19 model without demographic features. We then conducted theoretical analysis of the model with and without optimal control strategy. In the model without optimal control, we computed the reproduction number, an epidemiological threshold useful for bringing the third wave of the pandemic under check in Nigeria, and we proofed the disease stability and conducted sensitivity analysis in order to identify parameters that can impact the reproduction number tremendously. In a similar reasoning, for the model with control strategy, we check the necessary condition for the model. To validate our theoretical analyses, we illustrated the applications of the proposed model using COVID-19 data for Nigeria for a period when the country was under the yoke of the third wave of the disease. The data were then fitted to the model, and we derived a predictive tool toward making a forecast for the cumulative number of cases of infection, cumulative number of active cases and the peak of the third wave of the pandemic. From the simulations, it was observed that the presence of optimal control parameters leads to significant impact on the reduction of the spread of the disease. However, it was discovered that the success of the control of the disease relies on the proper and effective implementation of the optimal control strategies efficiently and adequately.

Translation, cross-cultural adaptation, and psychometric properties of the Hausa version of the Insomnia Severity Index among internally displaced persons in Africa.

BACKGROUND: Although sleep disturbances and insomnia are common among Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), these disorders remain largely understudied among victims fleeing ethnoreligious genocide. The Insomnia Severity Index (ISI), though a widely used measure of insomnia, has not been translated, cross-culturally adapted, nor validated in common African languages. This paper aimed to translate, adapt and validate the ISI scale into Hausa, the most widely spoken non-Indo-European language in African continent. METHODS: A six-stage validation model was used for the translation and adaptation of the ISI into Hausa [(ISI-Hausa), Item-Content Validity Index (I-CVI)=0.9 to 1.0]. The tool was administered among IDPs residing in Maiduguri, North-Eastern Nigeria, from October to November 2019. A total of 281 participants from six camps were recruited via convenience sampling. The psychometric properties of the scale were assessed using an Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA), Cronbach's alpha (α) and Intraclass Correlation Coefficients (ICC) for determining factor structure, internal consistency and test-retest reliability, respectively. RESULTS: Exploratory factor reduction resulted in a two-factor solution, with " severity of insomnia " identified as the construct for Factor 1 and " impact of insomnia " as the construct for Factor 2. Factor 1 consisted of four scale items and Factor 2 consisted of three items. Factor loadings for each item ranged from 0.535-0.812. The scale demonstrated acceptable internal consistency (α=0.72) and good test-retest reliability (ICC=0.72) (p<0.001). CONCLUSION: The ISI-Hausa scale is a psychometrically sound and culturally relevant tool for assessing the severity and impact of insomnia among Hausa speaking IDPs in Africa.

Evaluating the responses of some wheat landraces and cultivars cultivated locally in Saudi Arabia to three sources of irrigation water

This study was aimed to investigate the response of some wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) landraces to three irrigation sources, freshwater (FW), well water (WW), and treated municipal wastewater (TMW), regarding the impact on growth, yield, and grains elements contents. The results showed that the various wheat landraces irrigated with treated wastewater were significantly taller (117.3 cm) with multi tillers (22 tiller plant-1), had maximum spikes per plant (2.6), and longer weighty spikes (14.5 cm & 12.1 g). Landraces L1(Burr), L2 (Baldy Burr), C7 (Yecora Rojo), had maximum tillers, L4 (Alssamaa Burr), L5 (Bahaal Burr), L7 (Yecora Rojo) had more spikes per plant and the longer weighty spikes were recorded in L5 Baldy Burr, L1(Burr), heavy spikes were reported in L5 (Bahaal Burr) and L1(Burr). Moreover, these landraces had the highest yield per plant and 1000 grains weight (49.8 g, 12.5 g) respectively. The N, P, K, and Mg contents were increased under TMW, and their levels in landraces and cultivars in order are 3>L2>L4>L5>L1>C6>C7. Even Cu, Fe, Mn, Zn levels were higher in various landraces irrigated with TMW, however, L3, L2, and L4 had maximum contents of all microelements. TMW irrigation enhanced growth, yield, and grain quality in terms of essential elements. The irrigation of landraces L1, L4, L5 with TMW may be a feasible alternative for sustainable wheat production and safe water in arid regions such as Saudi Arabia.

Soil application of effective microorganisms and nitrogen alleviates salt stress in hot pepper (Capsicum annum L.) plants.

The application of effective microorganisms (EMs) and/or nitrogen (N) have a stimulating effect on plants against abiotic stress conditions. The aim of the present study was to determine the impact of the co-application of EMs and N on growth, physio-biochemical attributes, anatomical structures, nutrients acquisition, capsaicin, protein, and osmoprotectant contents, as well as the antioxidative defense system of hot pepper (Capsicum annum L.) plants. In the field trials, EMs were not applied (EMs-) or applied (EMs+) along with three N rates of 120, 150, and 180 kg unit N ha-1 (designated as N120, N150, and N180, respectively) to hot pepper plants grown in saline soils (9.6 dS m-1). The application of EMs and/or high N levels attenuated the salt-induced damages to hot pepper growth and yield. The application of EMs+ with either N150 or N180 increased the number, average weight and yield of fruits by 14.4 or 17.0%, 20.8 or 20.8% and 28.4 or 27.5%, respectively, compared to hot pepper plants treated with the recommended dose (EMs- × N150). When EMs+ was individually applied or combined with either N150 or N180, increased accumulation of capsaicin were observed by 16.7 or 20.8%, protein by 12.5 or 16.7%, proline by 19.0 or 14.3%, and total soluble sugars by 3.7 or 7.4%, respectively, in comparison with those treated with the integrative EMs- × N150. In addition, the non-enzymatic contents (ascorbate, and glutathione) and enzymatic activities (catalase, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione reductase) of the antioxidant defense systems significantly increased in hot pepper plants treated with EMs+ alone or combined with N150 or N180 under salt stress conditions. Higher accumulation of nutrients (N, P, K+, and Ca2+) along with reduced Na+ acquisition was also evidenced in response to EMs+ or/and high N levels. Most anatomical features of stems and leaves recovered in hot pepper plants grown in saline soils and supplied with EMs+ and N. The application of EMs and N is undoubtedly opening new sustainable approaches toward enhancing abiotic stress tolerance in crops (e.g. hot pepper).

Rebalancing Nutrients, Reinforcing Antioxidant and Osmoregulatory Capacity, and Improving Yield Quality in Drought-Stressed Phaseolus vulgaris by Foliar Application of a Bee-Honey Solution.

Bee-honey solution (BHS) is considered a plant growth multi-biostimulator because it is rich in osmoprotectants, antioxidants, vitamins, and mineral nutrients that can promote drought stress (DtS) resistance in common bean plants. As a novel strategy, BHS has been used in a few studies, which shows that the application of BHS can overcome the stress effects on plant productivity and can contribute significantly to bridging the gap between agricultural production and the steady increase in population under climate changes. Under sufficient watering (SW (100% of crop evapotranspiration; ETc) and DtS (60% of ETc)), the enhancing impacts of foliar application with BHS (0%, 0.5%, 1.0%, and 1.5%) on growth, productivity, yield quality, physiological-biochemical indices, antioxidative defense ingredients, and nutrient status were examined in common bean plants (cultivar Bronco). DtS considerably decreased growth and yield traits, green pod quality, and water use efficiency (WUE); however, application of BHS at all concentrations significantly increased all of these parameters under normal or DtS conditions. Membrane stability index, relative water content, nutrient contents, SPAD (chlorophyll content), and PSII efficiency (Fv/Fm, photochemical activity, and performance index) were markedly reduced under DtS; however, they increased significantly under normal or DtS conditions by foliar spraying of BHS at all concentrations. The negative impacts of DtS were due to increased oxidants [hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and superoxide (O2•-)], electrolyte leakage (EL), and malondialdehyde (MDA). As a result, the activity of the antioxidant system (ascorbate peroxidase, glutathione reductase, catalase, superoxide dismutase, α-tocopherol, glutathione, and ascorbate) and levels of osmoprotectants (soluble protein, soluble sugars, glycine betaine, and proline) were increased. However, all BHS concentrations further increased osmoprotectant and antioxidant capacity, along with decreased MDA and EL under DtS. What is interesting in this study was that a BHS concentration of 1.0% gave the best results under SW, while a BHS concentration of 1.5% gave the best results under DtS. Therefore, a BHS concentration of 1.5% could be a viable strategy to mitigate the DtS impairment in common beans to achieve satisfactory growth, productivity, and green pod quality under DtS.

Modulation of salinity impact on early seedling stage via nano-priming application of zinc oxide on rapeseed (Brassica napus L.).

Salinity stress negatively affects the plant's developmental stages through micronutrient imbalance. As an essential micronutrient, ZnO can substitute Na+ absorption under saline conditions. Therefore, nanoparticles as technological innovation, improve the plant growth efficiency under biotic and abiotic stresses. Nano-priming has become widely applicable in agricultural research during the last decade. The current study was conducted to highlight the impact of ZnONPs priming on seedling biological processes under 150 mM of NaCl using two rapeseed cultivars during the early seedling stage. All concentrations of ZnONPs increased the germination parameters i.e., FG%, GR, VI (I), and VI (II). Meanwhile, the high concentration (ZnO 100%) showed the highest increase in shoot length (9.60% and 25.63%), root length (41.64% and 48.17%) for Yang You 9 and Zhong Shuang 11 over hydro-priming, respectively, as well as biomass. Additionally, nano-priming improved the proline, soluble sugar, and soluble protein contents as a result of osmotic protection modulation. Moreover, nano-priming alleviated ROS and biosynthesis pigments through the reduction of accumulated (H2O2) and (O2-), and chlorophyll degradation, respectively, also enhanced antioxidant adjustment via improving the plant defense system. Nano-priming substituted the Na+ by Zn2+, K+, and Ca2+, and compensated the deficit of micronutrients, thus reduced the Na+ toxicity in the cell cytosol. To track the effects of priming during seed imbibition, it noticed that ZnO 100% and ZnO 100%+S increased the Linoleic and Linolenic acids among the studied fatty acids composition by 12.02%, 7.59%, 13.27%, and 10.38% (Yang You 9), 7.42%, 2.77%, 2.93%, and 1.49% (Zhong Shuang 11) over the hydro-priming, respectively. Moreover, the gene expression patterns of BnCAM and BnPER reflected the enhancement of germination levels, notably under the influence of ZnO 100% priming, which increased the level of BnCAM by 70.42% and 111.9% in Yang You 9 and Zhong Shuang 11, respectively. Consequently, ZnO nano-priming enhanced the seedling development through the biosynthesis of pigments, osmotic protection, reduction of ROS accumulation, adjustment of antioxidant enzymes, and improvement of the nutrient absorption, thus enhancing the economic yield under saline conditions.

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and potassium (K+) synergistically induce drought stress tolerance through regulation of H+-ATPase activity, sugar metabolism, and antioxidative defense in tomato seedlings.

KEY MESSAGE: Exogenous potassium (K+) and endogenous hydrogen sulfide (H2S) synergistically alleviate drought stress through regulating H+-ATPase activity, sugar metabolism and redox homoeostasis in tomato seedlings. Present work evaluates the role of K+ in the regulation of endogenous H2S signaling in modulating the tolerance of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L. Mill.) seedlings to drought stress. The findings reveal that exposure of seedlings to 15% (w/v) polyethylene glycol 8000 (PEG) led to a substantial decrease in leaf K+ content which was associated with reduced H+-ATPase activity. Treatment with sodium orthovanadate (SOV, PM H+-ATPase inhibitor) and tetraethylammonium chloride (TEA, K+ channel blocker) suggests that exogenous K+ stimulated H+-ATPase activity that further regulated endogenous K+ content in tomato seedlings subjected to drought stress. Moreover, reduction in H+-ATPase activity by hypotaurine (HT; H2S scavenger) substantiates the role of endogenous H2S in the regulation of H+-ATPase activity. Elevation in endogenous K+ content enhanced the biosynthesis of H2S through enhancing the synthesis of cysteine, the H2S precursor. Synergistic action of H2S and K+ effectively neutralized drought stress by regulating sugar metabolism and redox homoeostasis that resulted in osmotic adjustment, as witnessed by reduced water loss, and improved hydration level of the stressed seedlings. The integrative role of endogenous H2S in K+ homeostasis was validated using HT and TEA which weakened the protection against drought stress induced impairments. In conclusion, exogenous K+ and endogenous H2S regulate H+-ATPase activity which plays a decisive role in the maintenance of endogenous K+ homeostasis. Thus, present work reveals that K+ and H2S crosstalk is essential for modulation of drought stress tolerance in tomato seedlings.

Impact of miR-155 (rs767649 A>T) and miR-146a (rs57095329 A>G) polymorphisms in System Lupus Erythematosus susceptibility in an Egyptian cohort.

OBJECTIVE: Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune inflammatory disease. miR-155 and miR-146a were expressed in many autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis. The aim of this study was to examine miR-155 rs767649 and miR-146a rs57095329 polymorphisms in SLE susceptibility in an Egyptian cohort and to investigate the correlation between them and clinical data and disease activity. PATIENTS AND METHODS: The two SNPs were analyzed in 120 patients with SLE and 100 healthy controls using RT-PCR. RESULTS: The TT genotype and T allele of miR-155 rs767649 were associated with a significant increase in the risk of SLE, particularly in females. On the other hand, miR-146a (rs57095329) polymorphism was not associated with SLE risk. The AT/TT genotypes of miR-155 rs767649 showed higher distributions among patients with higher SLEDAI and nephritis. CONCLUSIONS: This study had demonstrated for the first time the association between miR-155 rs767649 and the risk of development of SLE in an Egyptian cohort, mostly in females.

Ten-year experience with multidisciplinary diagnosis and treatment of odontogenic sinusitis.

BACKGROUND: Odontogenic sinusitis is an underdiagnosed entity and is one cause of failure of conventional treatments of sinusitis. Unfortunately, there is no consensus so far on the best management protocol. This retrospective study aimed to suggest a practical management protocol that can reduce misdiagnosis and improve treatment outcomes. METHODS: The study included 74 patients with confirmed odontogenic sinusitis who were diagnosed and treated over 10 years (2010-2019). The patient data were recorded and analysed. RESULTS: Dental pain was reported in only 31.1 per cent of patients. Fifty-six patients (75.7 per cent) had received dental treatment during the last year, but only 13 (23.1 per cent) reported it. Dental pathology was missed on initial computed tomography evaluation in 24 patients (32.4 per cent). Forty-one patients (55.4 per cent) were successfully treated by dental procedures and antibiotics. Fourteen patients needed functional endoscopic sinus surgery in addition to dental procedures. CONCLUSION: Successful management of odontogenic sinusitis requires good communication between rhinologists, radiologists and dentists. Dental treatment should be the logical first step in the treatment protocol, unless otherwise indicated.

Overdominance at the Gene Expression Level Plays a Critical Role in the Hybrid Root Growth of Brassica napus.

Despite heterosis contributing to genetic improvements in crops, root growth heterosis in rapeseed plants is poorly understood at the molecular level. The current study was performed to discover key differentially expressed genes (DEGs) related to heterosis in two hybrids with contrasting root growth performance (FO; high hybrid and FV; low hybrid) based on analysis of the root heterosis effect. Based on comparative transcriptomic analysis, we believe that the overdominance at the gene expression level plays a critical role in hybrid roots' early biomass heterosis. Our findings imply that a considerable increase in up-regulation of gene expression underpins heterosis. In the FO hybrid, high expression of DEGs overdominant in the starch/sucrose and galactose metabolic pathways revealed a link between hybrid vigor and root growth. DEGs linked to auxin, cytokinin, brassinosteroids, ethylene, and abscisic acid were also specified, showing that these hormones may enhance mechanisms of root growth and the development in the FO hybrid. Moreover, transcription factors such as MYB, ERF, bHLH, NAC, bZIP, and WRKY are thought to control downstream genes involved in root growth. Overall, this is the first study to provide a better understanding related to the regulation of the molecular mechanism of heterosis, which assists in rapeseed growth and yield improvement.

Hypothyroidism: morphological and metabolic changes in the testis of adult albino rat and the amelioration by alpha-lipoic acid.

BACKGROUND: The objective of this study is to evaluate the influence of carbimazole- induced hypothyroidism on the testes of adult albino rats and the probable protective effect of alpha-lipoic acid (ALA). MATERIALS AND METHODS: The rats were divided into four groups; control group, ALA group, carbimazole, and carbimazole + ALA groups. Rats were exposed to ALA (60 mg/kg body weight) or carbimazole (1.35 mg/kg body weight), or both, administered via gavages for 30 days. RESULTS: Morphometric analysis revealed a significant decrease in tubular diameter, germinal epithelium thickness, and interstitial space as compared to the controls. Also, rats exposed to carbimazole showed a significant decline in testicular weight, sperm motility, and count. Additionally, deterioration of the testicular architecture was observed. ALA supplementation resulted in a significant improvement in the tubular diameter and germinal epithelium thickness, but no significant improvement regarding interstitial space was observed. Another observation was the significant decline in serum testosterone and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) in the carbimazole group, indicating reduced steroidogenesis. A significant reduction in reduced glutathione content was detected in the testes of the carbimazole group compared with the controls, while malonaldehyde concentration significantly increased. Conversely, ALA supplementation ameliorated the toxicity induced by hypothyroidism as illustrated by enhanced reproductive organ weights, testosterone, luteinizing hormone, and FSH levels, testicular steroidogenesis, and oxidative stress parameters. CONCLUSIONS: Hypothyroidism altered testicular antioxidant balance and negatively affected spermatogenesis. On the other hand, ALA through its antioxidant properties alleviated testicular toxicity in carbimazole-exposed rats.

Evaluation of miR-196a2 expression and Annexin A1 level in children with bronchial asthmaEvaluation of miR-196a2 expression and Annexin A1 level in children.

BACKGROUND: Annexin A1 (ANXA1) is an important anti-inflammatory mediator that may play a significant role in bronchial asthma. MiR-196a2 can target ANXA1 and therefore may play a role in the pathogenesis of asthma. AIM OF STUDY: This is the first study which aimed to evaluate the expression of miR-196a2 in the serum of asthmatic children and correlate its expression with ANXA1 serum level and asthma severity. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: The study included 100 asthma patients who were subdivided into three groups (mild, moderate and severe) and 50 healthy control subjects. Assessment of miR-196a2 expression and ANXA1 serum level were done using quantitative reverse transcriptase PCR (RT qPCR) and Elisa techniques, respectively. RESULTS: Compared to the control group, asthmatic children showed an increased ANXA1 serum level and decreased expression of miR-196a2 (p=0.001). However, ANXA1 serum level was lower and miR-196a2 expression was higher in severe asthmatic patients compared to moderate asthmatic ones (p=0.01, 0.03). Pearson's correlation coefficient revealed no significant correlations between ANXA1 serum level and miR-196a2 expression in the patient group (p=0.9). CONCLUSIONS: Altered miR-196a2 expression and serum ANXA1 concentration may play a role in the pathogenesis of asthma. In addition, ANXA1 and miR-196a2 may represent potential diagnostic biomarkers for asthma and future targets for therapy.

Stomatal and Photosynthetic Traits Are Associated with Investigating Sodium Chloride Tolerance of Brassica napus L. Cultivars.

The negative effects of salt stress vary among different rapeseed cultivars. In this study, we investigated the sodium chloride tolerance among 10 rapeseed cultivars based on membership function values (MFV) and Euclidean cluster analyses by exposing seedlings to 0, 100, or 200 mM NaCl. The NaCl toxicity significantly reduced growth, biomass, endogenous K+ levels, relative water content and increased electrolyte leakage, soluble sugar levels, proline levels, and antioxidant enzyme activities. SPAD values were highly variable among rapeseed cultivars. We identified three divergent (tolerant, moderately tolerant, and sensitive) groups. We found that Hua6919 and Yunyoushuang2 were the most salt-tolerant cultivars and that Zhongshuang11 and Yangyou9 were the most salt-sensitive cultivars. The rapeseed cultivars were further subjected to photosynthetic gas exchange and anatomical trait analyses. Among the photosynthetic gas exchange and anatomical traits, the stomatal aperture was the most highly correlated with salinity tolerance in rapeseed cultivars and thus, is important for future studies that aim to improve salinity tolerance in rapeseed. Thus, we identified and characterized two salt-tolerant cultivars that will be useful for breeding programs that aim to develop salt-tolerant rapeseed.