Ecotoxicity and environmental safety assessment of two-dimensional niobium carbides (MXenes).

Two-dimensional (2D) MXenes have gained great interest in water treatment, biomedical, and environmental applications. The antimicrobial activity and cell toxicity of several MXenes including Nb4C3Tx and Nb2CTx have already been explored. However, potential side effects related to Nb-MXene toxicity, especially on aquatic pneuma, have rarely been studied. Using zebrafish embryos, we investigated and compared the potential acute toxicity between two forms of Nb-MXene: the multilayer (ML-Nb4C3Tx, ML-Nb2CTx) and the delaminated (DL-Nb2CTx, and DL-Nb4C3Tx) Nb-MXene. The LC50 of ML-Nb4C3Tx, ML-Nb2CTx, DL-Nb2CTx, and DL-Nb4C3Tx were estimated to be 220, 215, 225, and 128 mg/L, respectively. Although DL-Nb2CTx, and DL-Nb4C3Tx derivatives have similar sizes, DL-Nb4C3Tx not only shows the higher mortality (LC50 = 128 mg/L Vs 225 mg/L), but also the highest teratogenic effect (NOEC = 100 mg/L Vs 200 mg/L). LDH release assay suggested more cell membrane damage and a higher superoxide anion production in DL-Nb4C3Tx than DL-Nb2CTx,. Interestingly, both DL-Nb-MXene nanosheets showed insignificant cardiac, hepatic, or behavioral toxic effects compared to the negative control. Embryos treated with the NOEC of DL-Nb2CTx presented hyperlocomotion, while embryos treated with the NOEC of DL-Nb4C3Tx presented hyperlocomotion, suggesting developmental neurotoxic effect and muscle impairment induced by both DL-Nb-MXene. According to the Fish and Wildlife Service (FSW) Acute Toxicity Rating Scale, all tested Nb-MXene nanosheets were classified as "Practically not toxic". However, DL-Nb4C3Tx should be treated with caution as it might cause a neurotoxic effect on fauna when it ends up in wastewater in high concentrations.

A high-quality genome assembly and annotation of Thielaviopsis punctulata DSM102798.

Black scorch disease (BSD), caused by the fungal pathogen Thielaviopsis punctulata (Tp) DSM102798, poses a significant threat to date palm cultivation in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). In this study, Chicago and Hi-C libraries were prepared as input for the Dovetail HiRise pipeline to scaffold the genome of Tp DSM102798. We generated an assembly with a total length of 28.23 Mb comprising 1,256 scaffolds, and the assembly had a contig N50 of 18.56 kb, L50 of three, and a BUSCO completeness score of 98.6% for 758 orthologous genes. Annotation of this assembly produced 7,169 genes and 3,501 Gene Ontology (GO) terms. Compared to five other Thielaviopsis genomes, Tp DSM102798 exhibited the highest continuity with a cumulative size of 27.598 Mb for the first seven scaffolds, surpassing the assemblies of all examined strains. These findings offer a foundation for targeted strategies that enhance date palm resistance against BSD, and foster more sustainable and resilient agricultural systems.

The Effect of Recycled Spent Coffee Grounds Fertilizer, Vermicompost, and Chemical Fertilizers on the Growth and Soil Quality of Red Radish (Raphanus sativus) in the United Arab Emirates: A Sustainability Perspective.

The overuse of chemical fertilizers degrades the soil ecosystem and restricts the natural development of plants. Various byproducts are produced throughout the production and consumption of coffee within the coffee industry, and they are significant in terms of environmental waste. Spent coffee grounds (SCGs) contains various bioactive compounds that have demonstrated potential applications in various fields. These compounds can enhance soil quality by improving its physicochemical properties and biological fertility, ultimately leading to improved plant growth and reducing food waste and contamination at the same time. This current study examined the impact of chemical fertilizer, vermicompost, SCGs with percentage fertilizer (SCGPF), and SCGs on the top dressing fertilizer (SCGTDF) on red radish (Raphanus sativus) growth and soil quality. This greenhouse experiment tested various concentrations of SCGPF (5%, 10%, 25%, and 50%) and different doses of SCGTDF (0.5 g, 1 g, and 2.5 g). The results showed that the 0.5 g SCGTDF treatment yielded the highest mean plant length (18.47 cm) and fresh weight (27.54 g), while the vermicompost at a 50% concentration produced the highest mean leaf surface area (58.32 cm2). These findings suggest the potential of SCGs as a sustainable fertilizer alternative, contributing to improved plant growth and soil quality, thus supporting sustainable agricultural practices and a circular economy.

MEK inhibitors: a promising targeted therapy for cardiovascular disease.

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) represents the leading cause of mortality and disability all over the world. Identifying new targeted therapeutic approaches has become a priority of biomedical research to improve patient outcomes and quality of life. The RAS-RAF-MEK (mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase)-ERK (extracellular signal-regulated kinase) pathway is gaining growing interest as a potential signaling cascade implicated in the pathogenesis of CVD. This pathway is pivotal in regulating cellular processes like proliferation, growth, migration, differentiation, and survival, which are vital in maintaining cardiovascular homeostasis. In addition, ERK signaling is involved in controlling angiogenesis, vascular tone, myocardial contractility, and oxidative stress. Dysregulation of this signaling cascade has been linked to cell dysfunction and vascular and cardiac pathological remodeling, which contribute to the onset and progression of CVD. Recent and ongoing research has provided insights into potential therapeutic interventions targeting the RAS-RAF-MEK-ERK pathway to improve cardiovascular pathologies. Preclinical studies have demonstrated the efficacy of targeted therapy with MEK inhibitors (MEKI) in attenuating ERK activation and mitigating CVD progression in animal models. In this article, we first describe how ERK signaling contributes to preserving cardiovascular health. We then summarize current knowledge of the roles played by ERK in the development and progression of cardiac and vascular disorders, including atherosclerosis, myocardial infarction, cardiac hypertrophy, heart failure, and aortic aneurysm. We finally report novel therapeutic strategies for these CVDs encompassing MEKI and discuss advantages, challenges, and future developments for MEKI therapeutics.

Gonioscopy-Assisted Transluminal Trabeculotomy (GATT) in Angle Recession Glaucoma.

This case report outlines the successful management of angle recession with gonioscopy-assisted transluminal trabeculotomy (GATT). A 53-year-old male with a history of blunt trauma to the left eye resulting in angle recession presented with an IOP of 38 mm Hg on four antiglaucoma agents. Following GATT, a notable reduction in IOP to 10 mm Hg was observed on the first postoperative day. Subsequent one year follow-up visit demonstrated sustained improvement, with IOP stabilizing at 18 mm Hg without the need for antiglaucoma medication. This is the first case report that demonstrates the role of GATT in the management of angle recession.

Drug repurposing of pyrazolotriazine derivatives as potential anti-SARS-CoV-2 agents: in vitro and in silico studies.

The search for new molecules targeting SARS-CoV-2 has been a priority since 2020. The continuous evolution of new mutants increases the need for more research in the area. One way to find new leads is to repurpose existing drugs and molecules against the required target. Here, we present the in vitro and in silico screening of ten previously synthesized and reported compounds as anti-COVID 19 agents. The compounds were screened in vitro against VERO-E6 cells to find their Cytotoxic Concentration (CC50) and their Inhibitory Concentration (IC50). Compounds 1, 2, and 5 revealed a promising anti-SARS-CoV-2 of (IC50 = 2.4, 11.2 and 2.8 µM), respectively while compounds 3 and 7 showed moderate activity of (IC50 = 17.8 and 26.1 µM) compared to Chloroquine which showed an IC50 of 24.9 µM. Among tested compounds, 1 showed the highest selectivity (CC50/IC50) of 192.8. Docking, molecular dynamics and ADME studies were done to investigate potential interactions between compounds and SARS-CoV-2 targets as well as to study the possibility of using them as lead compounds.

Real-world treatment patterns and clinical outcomes in patients with prostate cancer.: A single institution experience in Saudi Arabia.

OBJECTIVES: To describe the current real-world treatment landscape, sequence of therapies, and outcomes in patients with prostate cancer (PC). METHODS: A retrospective cohort study for PC patients diagnosed at King Abdullah Medical City Cancer Center in Makkah, Saudi Arabia, between January 2011 and December 2021. Data extracted from electronic medical records. RESULTS: A total of 282 patients with PC, with a mean age of 70 years and body mass index of 27. Among them, 274 (99%) had no family history of cancer, while 164 (58%) had hypertension and 125 (44%) had diabetes mellitus. Adenocarcinoma was the most common histology, found in 275 (97%) patients, with 99 (35%) having a Gleason score of 9. Notably, 184 (65%) patients presented with metastatic disease, and 147 (52%) with bone metastasis. While 198 (70%) patients underwent surgery, 184 (65%) did not receive radiotherapy. The most common first-line metastatic therapy was abiraterone in 23 (8%) patients, followed by enzalutamide in 7 (2.5%). During the study period, 167 (59%) patients survived, with an average treatment duration of 2.5 years. CONCLUSION: This study provides insights into real-world treatment patterns and clinical outcomes in patients with PC. The findings of this study highlight the importance of adhering to treatment standards and making informed clinical decisions.

Vildagliptin ameliorates intrapulmonary vasodilatation and angiogenesis in chronic common bile duct ligation-induced hepatopulmonary syndrome in rat.

INTRODUCTION: Experimental hepatopulmonary syndrome (HPS) is best reproduced in the rat common bile duct ligation (CBDL) model. Vildagliptin (Vild) is an anti-hyperglycemic drug that exerts beneficial anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant and anti-fibrotic effects. Therefore, the present search aimed to explore the possible effectiveness of Vild in CBDL-induced HPS model. METHODS: Four groups of male Wistar rats which weigh 220-270 g were used, including the normal control group, the sham control group, the CBDL group and CBDL+Vild group. The first three groups received i.p. saline, while the last group was treated with i.p. Vild (10 mg/kg/day) from the 15th to 28th day of the experiment. RESULTS: CBDL decreased the survivability and body weight of rats, increased diameter of the pulmonary vessels, and altered the arterial blood gases and the liver function parameters. Additionally, it increased the pulmonary expressions of endothelin-1 (ET-1) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) mRNA as well as endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and vascular endothelial growth factor-A (VEGF-A) proteins. The CBDL rats also exhibited elevation of the pulmonary interleukin-6 (IL-6), dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) and nitric oxide (NO) levels along with reduction of the pulmonary total anti-oxidant capacity and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) levels. Vild mitigated these alterations and improved the histopathological abnormalities caused by CBDL. CONCLUSION: Vild effectively attenuated CBDL-induced HPS through its anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory effects along with its modulatory effects on ET-1/NOS/NO and TNF-α/IL-6/VEGF-A signaling implicated in the regulation of intrapulmonary vasodilatation and angiogenesis, respectively.

Impact of smart technology use on sleep quality in individuals with autism spectrum disorder: a mixed-methods investigation.

Background: Sleep disturbances are common among individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and can have a negative impact on their daily functioning and core symptoms. As the use of smart technologies continues to rise, it is crucial to understand how these devices affect the sleep quality of individuals with ASD. Aim: The objective of this study was to examine the relationship between the use of smart technology and sleep quality in individuals with ASD. Methods: A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining both quantitative and qualitative data collection techniques. A sample of 83 individuals with ASD, aged between 8 and 25 years, assessed their sleep quality using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index. Additionally, information regarding patterns of smart technology use and relevant covariates was collected. Correlation and regression analyses were conducted to analyze the data. Furthermore, semi-structured interviews were conducted with a subset of participants and their caregivers. Results: Significant positive correlations were found between poorer sleep quality scores and total screen time (r = 0.42, p < 0.001), pre-bedtime technology use (r = 0.51, p < 0.001), gaming (r = 0.32, p = 0.003), and social media use (r = 0.29, p = 0.008). Pre-bedtime technology use was a significant predictor of poorer sleep quality (ß = 0.32, p = 0.006), even after controlling for age, gender, and ASD severity. Conclusion: The findings of this study emphasize the significant associations between the use of smart technology, particularly before bedtime, and poorer sleep quality in individuals with ASD. These results underscore the importance of developing evidence-based interventions and guidelines to promote healthy sleep habits and mitigate the negative effects of technology exposure in this population.

The Effect of Genetic Variants of SLC22A2 (rs662301 and rs315978) on the response to Metformin in type 2 Saudi diabetic patients.

PURPOSE: To investigate the allelic and genotypic frequencies of the two genetic variations, NC_000006.12: g.160275887C > T (rs662301) and NC_000006.12:g.160231826 T > C (rs315978), in the SLC22A2 gene among the Saudi population. The primary goal is to elucidate potential associations with these genetic variations and the response to metformin therapy over 6 months to enhance our knowledge of the genetic basis of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) and its clinical management in the Saudi population. MATERIALS/METHODS: 76 newly diagnosed T2DM patients, aged 30 to 60, of both sexes and Saudi origin, were treated with metformin monotherapy. Blood samples were collected before and after 6 months of therapy,80 healthy individuals were included as controls. Genomic DNA was extracted. Genotyping of the SLC22A2 genetic variations was performed using TaqMan® SNP Genotyping Assays. Binary logistic regression was utilized to evaluate how certain clinical parameters influence T2DM concerning the presence of SLC22A2 gene variants. RESULTS: Among these patients, 73.3 % were responders, and 26.7 % were non-responders. For these variants, no statistically significant differences in genotype or allele frequencies were observed between responders and non-responders (p = 0.375 and p = 0.384 for rs662301; p = 0.473 and p = 0.481 for rs315978, respectively). For the SLC22A2 variant rs662301, the C/C genotype was significantly associated with increased T2DM risk with age and elevated HbA1c levels. Similarly, rs315978 revealed higher T2DM susceptibility and HbA1c elevation in C/C genotype carriers, specifically with advancing age compared to individuals with C/T and T/T genotypes. CONCLUSION: The study offers insights into the genetic landscape of T2DM in Saudi Arabia. Despite the absence of significant associations with treatment response, the study suggests potential age-specific associations, this highlights the complexity of the disease. This research underscores the necessity for expanded research, considering diverse populations and genetic factors, to develop personalized treatment approaches. This study serves as a foundation for future investigations into the Saudi population, recognizing the need for a larger sample size.

Garlic bioactive substances and their therapeutic applications for improving human health: a comprehensive review.

Garlic (Allium sativum L.) is a widely abundant spice, known for its aroma and pungent flavor. It contains several bioactive compounds and offers a wide range of health benefits to humans, including those pertaining to nutrition, physiology, and medicine. Therefore, garlic is considered as one of the most effective disease-preventive diets. Many in vitro and in vivo studies have reported the sulfur-containing compounds, allicin and ajoene, for their effective anticancer, anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, immune-boosting, and cardioprotective properties. As a rich natural source of bioactive compounds, including polysaccharides, saponins, tannins, linalool, geraniol, phellandrene, ß-phellandrene, ajoene, alliin, S-allyl-mercapto cysteine, and ß-phellandrene, garlic has many therapeutic applications and may play a role in drug development against various human diseases. In the current review, garlic and its major bioactive components along with their biological function and mechanisms of action for their role in disease prevention and therapy are discussed.

The Impact of Food Waste Compost, Vermicompost, and Chemical Fertilizers on the Growth Measurement of Red Radish (Raphanus sativus): A Sustainability Perspective in the United Arab Emirates.

The pressing need for sustainable agricultural practices, especially with the increasing population, has directed attention towards alternative fertilizers that enhance crop yield while preserving soil integrity and reducing food loss. The current study investigated the comparative efficacy of food waste compost (FOWC), vermicompost, and chemical fertilizers on the growth of red radish. The present work used a systematic experimental design to evaluate plant growth parameters, including radish weight and height. The soil quality was determined by measuring the pH and electrical conductivity for all soil samples. The results indicated a significant variation in red radish fresh weight among different treatments. For example, the 25% vegetable and fruit waste compost (VFWC) treatment demonstrated a relatively high mean fresh weight, while the 50% mixed compost (MC) treatment yielded a much lower mean fresh weight. These numbers underscore the potential efficacy of specific food waste treatments in enhancing plant growth, with vermicompost at 50% and VFWC at 25% showing considerable promise in increasing crop yield. The current study concluded that FOWC and vermicompost significantly improved plant growth, advocating for their use as sustainable and environmentally friendly alternatives to chemical fertilizers. The current findings emphasized the importance of selecting appropriate fertilizer types and concentrations to optimize agricultural productivity and environmental sustainability, supporting the incorporation of food waste into agricultural systems as a beneficial resource.

MicroRNA-141-regulated KLK10 and TNFSF-15 gene expression in hepatoblastoma cells as a novel mechanism in liver carcinogenesis.

Liver cancer is one of the most pivotal global health problems, leading hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with a significant increase in cases worldwide. The role of non-coding-RNA in cancer proliferation and carcinogenesis has attracted much attention in the last decade; however, microRNAs (miRNAs), as non-coding RNA, are considered master mediators in various cancer progressions. Yet the role of miR-141 as a modulator for specific cellular processes in liver cancer cell proliferation is still unclear. This study identified the role of miR-141 and its potential functions in liver carcinogenesis. The level of miR-141 in HepG2 and HuH7 cells was assessed using quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) and compared with its expression in normal hepatocytes. A new miR-141 construct has been performed in a CMV promoter vector tagged with GFP. Using microarray analysis, we identified the potentially regulated genes by miR-141 in transfected HepG2 cells. The protein profile of the kallikrein-related peptidase 10 (KLK10) and tumor necrosis factor TNFSF-15 was investigated in HepG2 cells transfected with either an inhibitor, antagonist miR-141, or miR-141 overexpression vector using immunoblotting and flow cytometry assay. Finally, ELISA assay has been used to monitor the produced inflammatory cytokines from transfected HepG2 cells. Our findings showed that the expression of miR-141 significantly increased in HepG2 and HuH7 cells compared to the normal hepatocytes. Transfection of HepG2 cells with an inhibitor, antagonist miR-141, showed a significant reduction of HepG2 cell viability, unlike the transfection of miR-141 overexpression vector. The microarray data of HepG2 cells overexpressed miR-141 provided a hundred downregulated genes, including KLK10 and TNFSF-15. Furthermore, the expression profile of KLK10 and TNFSF-15 markedly depleted in HepG2 cells transfected with miR-141 overexpression accompanied by a decreasing level of interleukin 6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), indicating the role of miR-141 in HepG2 cell proliferation and programmed cell death. Interestingly, the experimental rats with liver cancer induced by Diethylnitrosamine injection further confirmed the upregulation of miR-141 level, IL-10, and TNF-α and the disturbance in KLK10 and TNFSF-15 gene expression compared with their expression in normal rats. The in-silico online tools, IntaRNA and miRWalk were used to confirm the direct interaction and potential binding sites between miR-141 and identified genes. Thus, the seeding regions of potential targeted sequences was cloned upstream of luciferase reporter gene in pGL3 control vector. Interestingly, the luciferase activities of constructed vectors were significantly decreased in HepG2 cells pre-transfected with miR-141 overexpression vector, while increasing in cells pre-transfected with miR-141 specific inhibitor. In summary, these data suggest the crucial role of miR-141 in liver cancer development via targeting KLK10 and TNFSF-15 and provide miR-141 as an attractive candidate in liver cancer treatment and protection.

A drug repurposing study identifies novel FOXM1 inhibitors with in vitro activity against breast cancer cells.

FOXM1, a proto-oncogenic transcription factor, plays a critical role in cancer development and treatment resistance in cancers, particularly in breast cancer. Thus, this study aimed to identify potential FOXM1 inhibitors through computational screening of drug databases, followed by in vitro validation of their inhibitory activity against breast cancer cells. In silico studies involved pharmacophore modeling using the FOXM1 inhibitor, FDI-6, followed by virtual screening of DrugBank and Selleckchem databases. The selected drugs were prepared for molecular docking, and the crystal structure of FOXM1 was pre-processed for docking simulations. In vitro studies included MTT assays to assess cytotoxicity, and Western blot analysis to evaluate protein expression levels. Our study identified Pantoprazole and Rabeprazole as potential FOXM1 inhibitors through in silico screening and molecular docking. Molecular dynamics simulations confirmed stable interactions of these drugs with FOXM1. In vitro experiments showed both Pantoprazole and Rabeprazole exhibited strong FOXM1 inhibition at effective concentrations and that showed inhibition of cell proliferation. Rabeprazole showed the inhibitor activity at 10 µM in BT-20 and MCF-7 cell lines. Pantoprazole exhibited FOXM1 inhibition at 30 µM and in BT-20 cells and at 70 µM in MCF-7 cells, respectively. Our current study provides the first evidence that Rabeprazole and Pantoprazole can bind to FOXM1 and inhibit its activity and downstream signaling, including eEF2K and pEF2, in breast cancer cells. These findings indicate that rabeprazole and pantoprazole inhibit FOXM1 and breast cancer cell proliferation, and they can be used for FOXM1-targeted therapy in breast or other cancers driven by FOXM1.

Molecular and agro-morphological characterization of new barley genotypes in arid environments.

BACKGROUND: Genetic diversity, population structure, agro-morphological traits, and molecular characteristics, are crucial for either preserving genetic resources or developing new cultivars. Due to climate change, water availability for agricultural use is progressively diminishing. This study used 100 molecular markers (25 TRAP, 22 SRAP, 23 ISTR, and 30 SSR). Additionally, 15 morphological characteristics were utilized to evaluate the optimal agronomic traits of 12 different barley genotypes under arid conditions. RESULTS: Substantial variations, ranging from significant to highly significant, were observed in the 15 agromorphological parameters evaluated among the 12 genotypes. The KSU-B101 barley genotype demonstrated superior performance in five specific traits: spike number per plant, 100-grain weight, spike number per square meter, harvest index, and grain yield. These results indicate its potential for achieving high yields in arid regions. The Sahrawy barley genotype exhibited the highest values across five parameters, namely leaf area, spike weight per plant, spike length, spike weight per square meter, and biological yield, making it a promising candidate for animal feed. The KSU-B105 genotype exhibited early maturity and a high grain count per spike, which reflects its early maturity and ability to produce a high number of grains per spike. This suggests its suitability for both animal feed and human food in arid areas. Based on marker data, the molecular study found that the similarity coefficients between the barley genotypes ranged from 0.48 to 0.80, with an average of 0.64. The dendrogram constructed from these data revealed three distinct clusters with a similarity coefficient of 0.80. Notably, the correlation between the dendrogram and its similarity matrix was high (0.903), indicating its accuracy in depicting the genetic relationships. The combined analysis revealed a moderate correlation between the morphological and molecular analysis, suggesting alignment between the two characterization methods. CONCLUSIONS: The morphological and molecular analyses of the 12 barley genotypes in this study effectively revealed the varied genetic characteristics of their agro-performance in arid conditions. KSU-B101, Sahrawy, and KSU-B105 have emerged as promising candidates for different agricultural applications in arid regions. Further research on these genotypes could reveal their full potential for breeding programs.

Incorporation of compost and biochar enhances yield and medicinal compounds in seeds of water-stressed Trigonella foenum-graecum L. plants cultivated in saline calcareous soils.

BACKGROUND: The combination of compost and biochar (CB) plays an important role in soil restoration and mitigation strategies against drought stress in plants. In the current study, the impact of CB was determined on the characteristics of saline calcareous soil and the productivity of fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.) plants. The field trials examined CB rates (CB0, CB10 and CB20 corresponding to 0, 10, and 20 t ha‒1, respectively) under deficit irrigation [DI0%, DI20%, and DI40% receiving 100, 80, and 60% crop evapotranspiration (ETc), respectively] conditions on growth, seed yield (SY), quality, and water productivity (WP) of fenugreek grown in saline calcareous soils. RESULTS: In general, DI negatively affected the morpho-physio-biochemical responses in plants cultivated in saline calcareous soils. However, amendments of CB10 or CB20 improved soil structure under DI conditions. This was evidenced by the decreased pH, electrical conductivity of soil extract (ECe), and bulk density but increased organic matter, macronutrient (N, P, and K) availability, water retention, and total porosity; thus, maintaining better water and nutritional status. These soil modifications improved chlorophyll, tissue water contents, cell membrane stability, photosystem II photochemical efficiency, photosynthetic performance, and nutritional homeostasis of drought-stressed plants. This was also supported by increased osmolytes, non-enzymatic, and enzymatic activities under DI conditions. Regardless of DI regimes, SY was significantly (P ≤ 0.05) improved by 40.0 and 102.5% when plants were treated with CB10 and CB20, respectively, as similarly observed for seed alkaloids (87.0, and 39.1%), trigonelline content (43.8, and 16.7%) and WP (40.9, and 104.5%) over unamended control plants. CONCLUSIONS: Overall, the application of organic amendments of CB can be a promising sustainable solution for improving saline calcareous soil properties, mitigating the negative effects of DI stress, and enhancing crop productivity in arid and semi-arid agro-climates.

Leveraging wastewater surveillance for managing the spread of SARS-CoV-2 and concerned pathogens during FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.

Wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE) has been proven effective for the monitoring of infectious disease outbreaks during mass gathering events and for timely public health interventions. As part of Qatar's efforts to monitor and combat the spread of infectious diseases during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ (FWC'22), wastewater surveillance was used to monitor the spread of SARS-CoV-2, human enterovirus, and poliovirus. The screening covered five major wastewater treatment plants servicing the event locations between October 2022 and January 2023. Viruses were concentrated from the wastewater samples by PEG precipitation, followed by qRT-PCR to measure the viral load in the wastewater. As expected, SARS-CoV-2 and enterovirus RNA were detected in all samples, while poliovirus was not detected. The concentration of SARS-CoV-2 was correlated with population density, such as areas surrounding the World Cup venues, and with the number of reported clinical cases. Additionally, we observed temporal fluctuations in viral RNA concentrations, with peak levels coinciding with the group stage matches of the FWC'22. This study has been useful in providing public health authorities with an efficient and cost-effective surveillance system for potential infectious disease outbreaks during mega-events.

Impact of Magnesium and Ferritin Deficiency on Depression Among Adolescent Students.

BACKGROUND: Depression is considered the fourth-leading cause of health problems. It is the fourth-leading cause of health problems and disability, which causes 16% of the worldwide burden of disease and injury among adolescents. OBJECTIVE: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the possible association of magnesium (Mg) and ferritin deficiency with depression in adolescent students. PATIENTS AND METHODS: This case control study in secondary schools at Al-Ghanayem discrete. The total number included was 358 students. All were screened for depression by the Arabic version of the Beck questionnaire. The students who had positive score was selected as cases 86 and a matched same number of students with negative score was selected as controls. Serum level of ferritin and magnesium was measured in the 2 groups. RESULTS: There was statistically significant difference between the studied groups when comparing depression grade with each of ferritin and Mg Depressed group cases had lower mean values of ferritin and Mg. The ferritin cut-off level for the prediction of depression was (35.5 µg/dL, which had a sensitivity of 74.4% and a specificity of 75.6%. The magnesium cut-off levels for the prediction of depression were1.95 mg/dL and 104.5 ng/dL which had a sensitivity of 70% and 64%, respectively. CONCLUSION: There was a statistically significant negative correlation between depression severity and each of socio-economic status ferritin and Mg. Each of ferritin and Mg were predictors for depression.

Antimicrobial, antibiofilm, and antiviral investigations using egyptian phoenix dactylifera L. pits extract.

Phoenix dactylifera L. and its wastes are known to be high in nutrients that are beneficial to human health. The study aimed to evaluate the antimicrobial, antibiofilm, and antiviral properties of Phoenix dactylifera L. pits extract (PDPE) in vitro. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis indicated phenol, 2,5-bis(1,1-dimethyl ethyl), tetradecanoic acid, octaethylene glycol monododecyl ether, á-D-glucopyranosiduronic acid, and heptaethylene glycol monododecyl ether existence. The PDPE influenced pathogenic microorganisms, with inhibition zone diameters (IZDs) ranging from 10.0 to 35.0 mm. Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 5638 had the highest IZD, while Salmonella typhi DSM 17058 and Shigella sonnei DSM 5570 had the lowest. The antifungal effect observed only in spore failure or conidia formation. PDPE showed a 100% antibacterial spectrum against bacteria, with MIC values between 250 and 1000 µg/ml. MIC was only indicated with S. aureus of 500 µg/ml. MBC values ranged from 500 to 1000 g/ml, with MBC values of 500 g/ml for B. cereus, E. faecalis, S. typhi, and S. sonnei. The activity was 66.7% at 500 µg/ml, further concentrations of 125-250 g/ml had no antibacterial effect. PDPE biofilm inhibition % had the highest percentage of inhibition (98.59%) with S. aureus, B. cereus (94.12%), and E. coli (74.46%). With 50% (CC50) viral activity, the highest non-toxic PDPE dose was found to be at 123.0 µg/ml.