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Tungsten nanoparticles (WNPs) could induce hazard impact on plant growth and development; however, no study investigated their phytotoxicity. On the other hand, plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB) can effectively reduce WNPs toxicity. To this end, Nocardiopsis sp. was isolated and employed to mitigate the phytotoxic effect of WNPs on three crops (wheat, barley, and oat). Soil contamination with WPNs induced the W accumulation in all tested crops, inhibited both growth and photosynthesis and induced oxidative damage. On the other hand, pre-inoculation with Nocardiopsis sp. significantly reduced W level in treated plants. Concomitantly, Nocardiopsis sp. strikingly mitigated the inhibitory effect of WNPs by augmenting both growth and reactive oxygen species (ROS) homeostasis. To cope with heavy metal stress, all the tested species orchestrated their antioxidant homeostasis through enhancing the production of antioxidant metabolites (e.g., phenolics, flavonoids and tocopherols) and elevated the activities of ROS-scavenging enzymes (e.g., APX, POX, CAT, as well as the enzymes involved in AsA/GSH cycle). Moreover, pre-inoculation with Nocardiopsis sp. improved the detoxification metabolism by enhancing the accumulation of phytochelatins (PCs), metallothionein (MTC) and glutathione-S-transferase (GST) in grasses grown in WNPs-contaminated soils. Overall, restrained ROS homeostasis and improved WNPs detoxification systems were the bases underlie the WNPs stress mitigating impact of Nocardiopsis sp treatment. • Tungsten nanoparticles (WNPs) adversely affected the growth and physiological parameters of wheat, barley, and oat. • A novel species of the genus Nocardiopsis was discovered and characterized. • Grasses traetment with our novel species (Nocardiopsis sp.) greatly alleviated the adverse effect of WNPs pollution. • Nocardiopsis sp.improved soil chemical composition and alleviated WNPs effects by enhancing photosynthesis. • WNPs negative effects were further mitigated by Nocardiopsis sp. co-inoculation via enhancing ROS homeostasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nano-sized arsenic oxide nanoparticles (As 2 O 3 -NP) limit crop growth and productivity. As 2 O 3 -NP represent a strong environmental hazard. The predicted rise in future atmospheric CO 2 could boost plant growth both under optimal and heavy metal stress conditions. So far, the phytotoxicity of As 2 O 3 -NP and their interaction with eCO 2 were not investigated at physiological and metabolic levels in crop species groups such as C3 and C4. We investigated how eCO 2 level (620 ppm) alleviated soil As 2 O 3 -NP toxicity induced growth and mitigated oxidative damages through analysing photosynthetic parameters, primary (sugars and amino acids) and secondary (phenolics, flavonoids and anthocyanins) metabolism in C3 (barley) and C4 (maize) plants. Compared to maize, barley accumulated higher As 2 O 3 -NP level, which inhibited growth and induced oxidative damage particularly in barley (increased H 2 O 2 and lipid peroxidation). Interestingly, eCO 2 differently mitigated As 2 O 3 -NP toxicity on photosynthesis, which consequently improved sugar metabolism. Moreover, high carbon availability in eCO 2 treated plants directed to produce osmo-protectant (soluble sugars and proline) and antioxidants (anthocyanins and tocopherols). In the line with increased proline and anthocyanins, their metabolism was also improved. Notable differences occurred between the two plant species. The ornithine pathway was preferred in maize while in barley proline accumulation was mainly through glutamate pathway. Moreover, under As 2 O 3 -NP stress, barley preferentially accumulated anthocyanins while maize accumulated total phenolics and flavonoids. This work contributes to improving our understanding of the differences in growth, physiological and biochemical responses of major crops of two functional photosynthetic groups (C3 and C4 plants) under ambient and elevated CO 2 grown under As 2 O 3 -NP stress. • Arsenic oxide nanoparticles (As 2 O 3 -NP) impose oxidative stress in barley and maize. • Barley and maize responded differently to As 2 O 3 -NP toxicity. • Sugars, anthocyanin and proline metabolism were remarkably different in barley and maize in response to As 2 O 3 -NP. • Elevated CO 2 alleviated the As 2 O 3 -NP Toxicity. • Elevated CO 2 differently affected sugars, anthocyanins and proline metabolism in barley and maize. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drought represents a major constraint for agricultural productivity and food security worldwide. Plant growth promoting actinobacteria have attracted the attention as a promising approach to enhance plant growth and yield under stressful conditions. In this regard, bioprospecting in arid and semi-arid environments could reveal uncommon bacteria with improved biological activities. In the present study, the ability of actinobacteria isolated from a semi-arid environment (Saudi Arabia) to mitigate the negative impact of drought on growth and physiology of maize, a drought-sensitive crop, has been investigated. Among the different actinobacterial isolates screened for secondary metabolites production and biological activities, isolate Ac5 showed high ability of flavonoid, phytohormones and siderophores production. Moreover, Ac5 improved the growth and photosynthesis and induced a global metabolic change in the bacterized plants under water-deficit conditions. Interestingly, Ac5 treatment significantly mitigated the detrimental effects of drought stress on maize. Reduced H 2 O 2 accumulation and lipid peroxidation accompanied with higher levels of molecular antioxidants (total ascorbate, glutathione, tocopherols, phenolic acids and flavonoids) were observed in the bacterized plants. From the osmoregulation point of view, drought-stressed bacterized maize accumulated higher levels of compatible solutes, such as sucrose, total soluble sugars, proline, arginine and glycine betaine, as compared with the non-bacterized plants. Therefore, this study highlights the comprehensive impact of actinobacteria on the global plant metabolism and suggests the potential utilization of actinobacteria isolated from semi-arid environments to mitigate the negative impact of drought on crop plants. Image 1 • Biologically active actinobacteria were isolated from a semi-arid environment. • Actinobacteria improved the growth and photosynthesis of maize grown under drought. • Actinobacteria upregulated the osmoregulation and antioxidant defense metabolism. • Bacterized plants maintained proper redox homeostasis and showed lower cell damage. • Consequently, actinobacteria mitigated drought induced oxidative damage in maize. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phycoremediation technologies significantly contribute to solving serious problems induced by heavy metals accumulation in the aquatic systems. Here we studied the mechanisms underlying Al stress tolerance in two diazotrophic cyanobacterial species, to identify suitable species for Al phycoremediation. Al uptake as well as the physiological and biochemical responses of Anabaena laxa and Nostoc muscorum to 7 days Al exposure at two different concentrations i.e. , mild (100 μM) and high dose (200 μM), were investigated. Our results revealed that A. laxa accumulated more Al, and it could acclimatize to long-term exposure of Al stress. Al induced a dose-dependent decrease in photosynthesis and its related parameters e.g., chlorophyll content (Chl a), phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase (PEPC) and Ribulose‒1,5‒bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase (RuBisCo) activities. The affect was less pronounced in A. laxa than N. muscorum. Moreover, Al stress significantly increased cellular membrane damage as indicated by induced H 2 O 2, lipid peroxidation, protein oxidation, and NADPH oxidase activity. However, these increases were lower in A. laxa compared to N. muscorum. To mitigate the impact of Al stress, A. laxa induced its antioxidant defense system by increasing polyphenols, flavonoids, tocopherols and glutathione levels as well as peroxidase (POX), catalase (CAT), glutathione reductase (GR) and glutathione peroxidase (GPX) enzymes activities. On the other hand, the antioxidant increases in N. muscorum were only limited to ascorbate (ASC) cycle. Overall, high biosorption/uptake capacity and efficient antioxidant defense system of A. laxa recommend its feasibility in the treatment of Al contaminated waters/soils. Image 1 • Cyanobacteria responses to aluminium were in a dose- and species-specific manner. • Although Anabaena laxa did accumulate Al, it experienced less stress than Nostoc muscorum. • Al induced photosynthesis inhibition and oxidative damage, were less pronounced in A. laxa. • Our analyses implicated the role of antioxidant defence system in Al stress tolerance of A. laxa. • A. laxa is a promising species for aluminium phycoremediation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The functional food value of herbal plants is greatly related to their contents of valuable phytochemicals. Regarding its impact on primary and secondary plant metabolism, CO 2 enrichment could be a candidate strategy to modulate the levels of nutritionally and medicinally interesting phytochemicals in herbal plants. Herein, the concentrations of 81 metabolites and minerals were evaluated in shoot tissues of parsley and dill grown under two levels of CO 2 , ambient (378 ± 25 µmole CO 2 mole −1 air, aCO 2 ) and elevated (627 ± 24 µmole CO 2 mole −1 air, eCO 2 ). Regardless of the plant species, eCO 2 improved the levels of soluble sugars, starch, organic acids, some EAAs, most of USFA, total phenolics, total flavonoids and vitamins A and E. However, notable variations in the metabolites responsiveness to eCO 2 were recorded among the tested plant species. Moreover, considerable improvements in the total antioxidant capacity, antiprotozoal, antibacterial and anticancer activities were recorded for parsley and dill in response to eCO 2 . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Heavy metals such as beryllium (Be) have been identified as toxic for plants with a negative impact on plant growth. Therefore, there is an urgent need for environmentally friendly techniques to reduce Be toxicity on plant growth and productivity. To this end, arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) are widely applied to induce plant growth and stress tolerance. However, how AMF-plant symbiosis can support plants under Be stress has not been studied. Accordingly, we investigated the physiological and biochemical responses of AMF inoculated ryegrass and chickpea plants to Be stress. The associated changes in Be uptake and accumulation, photosynthesis, oxidative stress, carbon and nitrogen metabolism were studied. Soil contamination with Be induced higher Be accumulation, particularly in ryegrass, which consequentially reduced plant growth and photosynthesis. However, photorespiration and oxidative damage (H 2 O 2 accumulation, lipid oxidation, and LOX activity) were increased, mainly in ryegrass. In both plant species, AMF inoculation reduced Be accumulation and mitigated growth inhibition and oxidative damage, but to a more extent in ryegrass. This could be explained by improved photosynthesis as well as the upregulation of osmoprotectants i.e., sucrose and proline biosynthesis pathways. The increase in proline level was consistent with higher nitrogen (N) metabolism as reflected by N level and nitrate reductase. Species-specific responses were recorded and supported by principal component analysis. This study provided insight into the mechanism of AMF's impact on Be-stressed ryegrass and chickpea plants. Hence, the current research suggested that AMF inoculation could be used as a viable strategy to mitigate Be phytotoxicity in ryegrass and chickpea plants. [Display omitted] • Ryegrass was more tolerant than chickpea to Be stress. • Inoculation with AMF reduced Be phytotoxicity and enhanced photosynthesis of both plants. • AMF inoculation reduced Be accumulation and mitigated growth inhibition and oxidative damage. • Sucrose and proline biosynthesis pathways were upregulated under Be stress. • Nitrogen level and nitrate reductase activity were induced by AMF under Be stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aluminum (Al) toxicity limits crops growth and production in acidic soils. Compared to roots, less is known about the toxic effects of Al in leaves. Al subcellular compartmentalization is also largely unknown. Using rye (Secale cereale L.) Beira (more tolerant) and RioDeva (more sensitive to Al) genotypes, we evaluated the patterns of Al accumulation in leaf cell organelles and the photosynthetic and metabolic changes to cope with Al toxicity. The tolerant genotype accumulated less Al in all organelles, except the vacuoles. This suggests that Al compartmentalization plays a role in Al tolerance of Beira genotype. PSII efficiency, stomatal conductance, pigment biosynthesis, and photosynthesis metabolism were less affected in the tolerant genotype. In the Calvin cycle, carboxylation was compromised by Al exposure in the tolerant genotype. Other Calvin cycle-related enzymes, phoshoglycerate kinase (PGK), glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH), triose-phosphate isomerase (TPI), and fructose 1,6-bisphosphatase (FBPase) activities decreased in the sensitive line after 48 h of Al exposure. Consequentially, carbohydrate and organic acid metabolism were affected in a genotype-specific manner, where sugar levels increased only in the tolerant genotype. In conclusion, Al transport to the leaf and compartmentalization in the vacuoles tolerant genotype's leaf cells provide complementary mechanisms of Al tolerance, protecting the photosynthetic apparatus and thereby sustaining growth. [Display omitted] • Al within cell leaves is mobilized to organelles in a genotype specific manner. • Differential Al compartmentalization in vacuoles is a key to enhanced Al tolerance in rye. • Photosynthetic apparatus was more compromised in the sensitive genotype. • Al inhibited pigment biosynthesis and photosynthesis metabolism in a genotypic-specific manner. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genus Gracilaria is an economically important group of seaweeds as several species are utilized for various products such as agar, used in medicines, human diets, and poultry feed. Hence, it is imperative to understand their response to predicted ocean acidification conditions. In the present work, we have evaluated the response of Gracilaria foliifera and Gracilaria debilis to carbon dioxide (pCO 2) induced seawater acidification (pH 7.7) for two weeks in a controlled laboratory conditions. As a response variable, we have measured growth, productivity, redox state, primary and secondary metabolites, and mineral compositions. We found a general increase in the daily growth rate, primary productivity, and tissue chemical composition (such as pigments, soluble and insoluble sugars, amino acids, and fatty acids), but a decrease in the mineral contents under the acidified condition. Under acidification, there was a decrease in malondialdehyde. However, there were no significant changes in the total antioxidant capacity and a majority of enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants, except for an increase in tocopherols, ascorbate and glutathione-s-transferase in G. foliifera. These results indicate that elevated pCO 2 will benefit the growth of the studied species. No sign of oxidative stress markers indicating the acclimatory response of these seaweeds towards lowered pH conditions. Besides, we also found increased antimicrobial activities of acidified samples against several of the tested food pathogens. Based on these observations, we suggest that Gracilaria spp. will be benefitted from the predicted future acidified ocean. [Display omitted] • Seawater acidification improved primary productivity, pigments, and carbon storage. • No sign of oxidative stress under acidification • Improved antimicrobial activities in acidified samples • Possible benefits in the future high pCO 2 conditions [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aquaculture, also known as aqua farming, is defined as farming fish, crustaceans, mollusks, aquatic plants, algae, and other marine organisms. It includes cultivating fresh- and saltwater populations under controlled conditions compared to commercial fishing or wild fish harvesting. Worldwide, carp, salmon, tilapia, and catfish are the most common fish species used in fish farming in descending order. Disinfectants prevent and/or treat different infections in aquatic animals. The current review indicates the uses of different disinfectants against some important pathogens in aquaculture, with particular reference to tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) farming. A single review cannot cover all aspects of disinfection throughout aquaculture, so the procedures and principles of disinfection in tilapia farming/aquaculture have been chosen for illustration purposes. • Aquaculture includes cultivating fish populations under controlled conditions. • Disinfectants prevent and/or treat different infections in aquatic animals. • The current review indicates how to inhibit pathogenic microorganisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Diarrhea and deaths in new-born camel calves were noticed by veterinary investigators and pastoralist in Saudi Arabia to be very high. Hence, it is thought to be necessary to investigate this problem from the virological and bacteriological point of view. The role of pathogenic bacteria and viruses in six different towns of North Province (Al-Assafia, Arar, Domat Aljandal, Hail, Skaka and Khoa) in Saudi Arabia was studied. Survey was conducted in diarrheic camel calves aged 12months or younger. In our study calf diarrhea was reported in 184 out of 2308 camels examined clinically during one year, the prevalence of diarrhea was found to be 8.0% in calves ranging from one month to one year. In the present study group A rotavirus and Brucella abortus were detected in 14.7% and 8.98%, respectively, using ELISA technique. Escherichia coli was isolated from diarrheic calf camel (58.2%) 99/170 samples during dry and wet season. Salmonella spp. and Enterococcus spp. were detected in 12% and 8.8% of the specimens, respectively. In this study enterotoxogenic E. coli (ET E. coli) was isolated from 7% of diarrheic camel, which indicates the strong correlation between the camel calf diarrhea and the detection of enterotoxogenic E. coli. This study represented the first report for the detection of group A rotavirus and B. abortus antigen and antibodies in calf camels in Saudi Arabia. It is recommended that the disease should be controlled by vaccination in calf camels. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Lysophosphatidic acid and sphingosine 1-phosphate are bioactive lipid mediators with potent effects on cardiovascular development and vascular function. New studies define dynamic mechanisms that maintain physiologically relevant levels of both lipids in the blood. We review the mechanisms controlling the production, metabolism, and distribution of these lipids between vascular cells, circulating blood components, and the plasma. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Like its bulk counterpart, tungsten (W) nanoparticles (WNPs) could induce environmental hazard to plant growth and yield, however no study investigated their phytotoxicity. On the other hand, plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB) can be effectively applied to reduce WNPS toxicity. Therefore, we aimed at investigating the phytotoxic effect of WPNs upon some leguminous plants and how could PGPB ameliorate this phytotoxic impact. Soil contaminated with WPNS induced the accumulation of W in all tested species, leading to marked retardation in both growth and photosynthesis as well as a noticeable oxidative damage. Five isolates of actinobacteria were isolated from Jazan, Saudi Arabia. Morphological and biochemical characterizations indicated that isolate (3) was the most bioactive one. Furthermore, PCR was performed to amplify 16S rDNA of the isolate 3 and the amplified sequence exhibited a high similarity with 16S rRNA gene from Saccharomonospora sp. Although, Saccharomonospora sp. did not affect growth of control plants, it markedly quenched the negative impact of WNPs. This was accompanied by a significant reduction in W levels in Saccharomonospora- treated plants. To cope with heavy metal stress, all tested legumes activated their osmolytes metabolism through the production of soluble sugars, proline, and polyamines, particularly in pea plants. Concomitantly, the biosynthetic key enzymes involved in sucrose, proline and spermidine polyamine biosynthesis experienced a remarkable elevation. These increases were further induced by co-application of Saccharomonospora sp. and WNPs. Overall, application of Saccharomonospora sp. under WNPs treatment induced similar metabolic responses in the three legume species, particularly pea plants, which triggered stress recovery. [Display omitted] • Tungsten nanoparticles (WNPs) adversely affect legumes' growth. • A novel species of the genus Saccharomonospora was obtained. • Treatment of legumes with Saccharomonospora alleviated the adverse effect of WNPs. • Saccharomonospora sp. noticeably enhanced the soil chemical composition. • Saccharomonospora enhancing photosynthetic efficiency of the legumes under the challenge of WNPs pollution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metalaxyl is a broad-spectrum chiral fungicide that used for the protection of plants, however extensive use of metalaxyl resulted in serious environmental problems. Thus, a study on the detoxification mechanism in algae/cyanobacteria and their ability for phycoremediation is highly recommended. Here, we investigated the physiological and biochemical responses of two cyanobacterial species; Anabaena laxa and Nostoc muscorum to R -metalaxyl toxicity as well as their ability as phycoremediators. Two different levels of R- metalaxyl, at mild (10 mg/L) and high dose (25 mg/L), were applied for one-week. We found that A. laxa absorbed and accumulated more intracellular R- metalaxyl compared to N. muscorum. R- metalaxyl, which triggered a dose-based reduction in cell growth, photosynthetic pigment content, and photosynthetic key enzymes' activities i.e. , phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase (PEPC) and ribulose‒1,5‒bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase (RuBisCo). These decreases were significantly less pronounced in A. laxa. On the other hand, R -metalaxyl significantly induced oxidative damage markers, e.g. , H 2 O 2 levels, lipid peroxidation (MDA), protein oxidation and NADPH oxidase activity. However, these increases were also lower in A. laxa compared to N. muscorum. To alleviate R -metalaxyl toxicity, A. laxa induced the polyphenols, flavonoids, tocopherols and glutathione (GSH) levels as well as peroxidase (POX), glutathione peroxidase (GPX), glutathione reductase (GR) and glutathione-s-transferase (GST) enzyme activities. On the contrary, the significant induction of antioxidants in N. muscorum was restricted to ascorbate, catalase (CAT) and ascorbate peroxidase (APX), dehydroascorbate reductase (DHAR) enzyme activities. Although A. laxa accumulated more R- metalaxyl, it experienced less stress due to subsequent induction of antioxidants. Therefore, A. laxa may be a promising R- metalaxyl phycoremediator. Our results provided basic data for understanding the ecotoxicology of R -metalaxyl contamination in aquatic habitats and the toxicity indices among cyanobacteria. Image 1 • R- metalaxyl-induced toxicity in cyanobacteria was a function of dose and species type. • Although Anabaena laxa accumulated R- metalaxyl, it experienced less stress than Nostoc muscorum. • R- metalaxyl induced photosynthesis inhibition and oxidative damage which were less pronounced in A. laxa. • Our analyses implicated the role of antioxidant defence system in R- metalaxyl stress tolerance in A. laxa. • A. laxa is a promising species for R- metalaxyl phycoremediation. Main finding: R- metalaxyl-induced toxicity in cyanobacteria was a function of dose and species type. Although Anabaena laxa accumulated more R- metalaxyl, it experienced less stress due to its antioxidant defense system. A. laxa may be a promising R- metalaxyl phycoremediator. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heavy metal accumulation in agricultural land causes crop production losses worldwide. Metal homeostasis within cells is tightly regulated. However, homeostasis breakdown leads to accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Overall plant fitness under stressful environment is determined by coordination between roots and shoots. But little is known about organ specific responses to heavy metals, whether it depends on the metal category (redox or non-redox reactive) and if these responses are associated with heavy metal accumulation in each organ or there are driven by other signals. Maize seedlings were subjected to sub-lethal concentrations of four metals (Zn, Ni, Cd and Cu) individually, and were quantified for growth, ABA level, and redox alterations in roots, mature leaves (L1,2) and young leaves (L3,4) at 14 and 21 days after sowing (DAS). The treatments caused significant increase in endogenous metal levels in all organs but to different degrees, where roots showed the highest levels. Biomass was significantly reduced under heavy metal stress. Although old leaves accumulated less heavy metal content than root, the reduction in their biomass (FW) was more pronounced. Metal exposure triggered ABA accumulation and stomatal closure mainly in older leaves, which consequently reduced photosynthesis. Heavy metals induced oxidative stress in the maize organs, but to different degrees. Tocopherols, polyphenols and flavonoids increased specifically in the shoot under Zn, Ni and Cu, while under Cd treatment they played a minor role. Under Cu and Cd stress, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and dehydroascorbate reductase (DHAR) activities were induced in the roots, however ascorbate peroxidase (APX) activity was only increased in the older leaves. Overall, it can be concluded that root and shoot organs specific responses to heavy metal toxicity are not only associated with heavy metal accumulation and they are specialized at the level of antioxidants to cope with. Image 1 • Maize organs of different types and ages respond differently to heavy metals. • Cluster analyses results grouped Cd–Cu and Zn–Ni groups with regard to antioxidant responses in maize seedling. • Mature leaves are more sensitive to heavy metals compared to younger ones. • Different antioxidant enzymes are induced in different organs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study sought to evaluate 1) the relationship between body mass index (BMI), chronic kidney disease (CKD) and bleeding complications in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI); and 2) whether CKD modified the effect of BMI on major bleeding and major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (MACCE). The interaction of CKD, sex and BMI in patients undergoing PCI is unclear. Between 2010 and 2018, a total of 31,116 patients underwent PCI at six New York metropolitan area hospitals. Bleeding complications were classified by the Bleeding Academic Research Consortium (BARC). Major bleeding was defined as BARC≥3. MACCE was the composite of in-hospital death; myocardial infarction; cerebrovascular events and major bleeding complications. Interaction on multiplicative scales was assessed adjusting for other factors. A three-way multiplicative interaction between BMI, CKD and sex were considered and evaluated for both endpoints of primary interest (BARC≥3 and MACCE). Patients with BARC≥3 bleeding were older (p < 0.0001) and more likely female (p < 0.0001). A 3-way interaction existed between sex, BMI, and CKD on BARC≥3 (p = 0.02). Specifically, the effect of CKD status on odds of BARC≥3 depended on BMI group among males, whereas BMI did modify the relationship between CKD and BARC≥3 among females; after stratification by sex, a significant interaction between BMI and CKD was present in females (p = 0.03) but not in males (p = 0.43). Among females without CKD, normal BMI patients had the greatest odds of BARC≥3 compared to obese or overweight females. Contrasted to females without CKD, among females with CKD there was no significant increased odds of BARC≥3 in normal BMI patients compared to obese or overweight females. However, overweight females with CKD had a significantly increased odds of BARC≥3 compared to obese females with CKD. Furthermore, obese females with CKD had significantly greater BARC≥3 odds compared to obese females without CKD. Similarly, overweight females with CKD had an increased odds of BARC≥3 compared to overweight females without CKD. No significant interactions were found for the odds of MACCE. In patients undergoing PCI, there was evidence of a significant and complex 3-way interaction between BMI, CKD and sex for major bleeding events. The predicted probability of major bleeding was greater for females than for male patients, and for both sexes, greater among those with CKD, but BMI group influences these probabilities. Obese females with kidney disease had the lowest incidence of bleeding complications when compared with overweight or normal weight female patients undergoing PCI. This interaction was not seen in the male group or for MACCE. Furthermore, age, cardiogenic shock, STEMI and use of IABP/Impella were each independently associated with odds of major bleeding (among both males and females) and MACCE. • The interaction of chronic kidney disease, sex and body mass index (BMI) in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention is unclear. • We found a 3-way interaction existed between sex, BMI, and chronic kidney disease on major bleeding complications in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention. • BMI did modify the relationship between chronic kidney disease and major bleeding among females; after stratification by sex, a significant interaction between BMI and chronic kidney disease was present in females (p=0.03) but not in males (p=0.43). • Normal BMI and overweight females with chronic kidney disease had a significantly increased odds of major bleeding complications compared to obese females with chronic kidney disease. This interaction was not seen in the male group. • Among females without kidney disease, normal BMI patients had the greatest odds of major bleeding compared with obese or overweight females. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Due to industrialization and expansion of nanotechnology, ecosystem contamination by nanoparticles is likely. Overall, nanoparticles accumulate in environmental matrices and induce phytotoxicity, however future climate (elevated CO 2 (eCO 2)) may affect the distribution of nanoparticles in ecosystems and alter their impact on plants. In the current study, nickel oxide nanoparticles (NiO-NPs) with an average diameter of 54 nm were synthesized by chemical pericipitation method using Triton X-100 and characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), UV-VIS spectroscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). We have investigated the impact of NiO-NPs at a concentration of 120 mg kg−1 soil, selected based on the results of a preliminary experiment, on accumulation of Ni ions in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) and how that could influence plant growth, photosynthesis and redox homeostasis under two CO 2 scenarios, ambient (aCO 2, 400 ppm) and eCO 2 (620 ppm). NiO-NPs alone reduced whole plant growth, inhibited photosynthesis and increased the levels of antioxidants. However, improved defense system was not enough to lessen photorespiration induced H 2 O 2 accumulation and oxidative damage (lipid and protein oxidation). Interestingly, eCO 2 significantly mitigated the phytotoxicity of NiO-NPs. Although, eCO 2 did not affect Ni accumulation and translocation in wheat, it promoted photosynthesis and inhibited photorespiration, resulting in reduced ROS production. Moreover, it further improved the antioxidant defense system and maintained ASC/DHA and GSH/GSSG redox balances. Organ specific responses to NiO-NPs and/or eCO 2 were indicated and confirmed by cluster analysis. Overall, we suggest that wheat plants will be more tolerant to NiO-NPs stress under future climate CO 2. Graphical abstract Image 1 Highlights • NiO-NPs alone induced severe growth retardation and oxidative damage in wheat. • eCO 2 did not affect accumulation of Ni in wheat, but antagonized its phytotoxicity. • eCO 2 promoted photosynthesis and mitigated growth reduction induced by NiO-NPs. • eCO 2 reduced ROS induced cellular damage and maintained redox homeostasis. • ROS content were reduced both at the production and detoxification level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To assess the clinical characteristics and in-hospital bleeding complications and major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (MACCE) associated with the use of Impella alone or the combination of an intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) with Impella in cardiogenic shock (CS) patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). All CS patients who underwent PCI and were treated with an Impella mechanical circulatory support (MCS) device were identified. Patients were divided into two groups: having MCS support with Impella alone or with both, IABP and Impella simultaneously (dual MCS group). Bleeding complications were classified by a modified Bleeding Academic Research Consortium (BARC) classification. Major bleeding was defined as BARC≥3 bleeding. MACCE was the composite of in-hospital death, myocardial infarction, cerebrovascular events and major bleeding complications. Between 2010 and 2018 a total of 101 patients were treated at six tertiary care New York hospitals with either Impella (n = 61) or dual MCS with Impella and IABP (n = 40). Clinical characteristics were similar for both groups. Dual MCS patients presented more often with a STEMI (77.5 % vs. 45.9 %, p = 0.002) and had left main coronary artery intervention (20.3 % vs. 8.6 %, p = 0.03). Major bleeding complications (69.4 % vs. 74.1 %, p = 0.62) and MACCE rates (80.6 % vs. 79.3 %, p = 0.88) were very high but similar in both groups, however access site bleeding complications were lower in patients treated with dual MCS. In-hospital mortality was 29.5 % for the Impella group and 25.0 % for the dual MCS group (p = 062). Access site bleeding complications were lower in in patients treated with dual MCS (5.0 % vs. 24.6 %, p = 0.01). In CS patients undergoing PCI with either the Impella device alone or with Impella and IABP, major bleeding complications and MACCE rates were high but not significantly different between the two groups. In hospital mortality was relatively low in both MCS groups despite the high-risk characteristics of these patients. Future studies should assess the risks and benefits of the simultaneous use of these two MCS in CS patients undergoing PCI. • A total of 101 cardiogenic shock patients were treated with either Impella (n =61) or with Impella plus IABP (n =40). • Clinical characteristics were similar in both groups. • Patients treated simultaneously with both devices presented more often with a STEMI and had left main coronary artery intervention. • Major bleeding complications (69.4% vs. 74.1%, p =0.62) and MACCE rates (80.6% vs. 79.3%, p =0.88) were very high but similar in both groups. • In-hospital mortality was 29.5% for the Impella group and 25.0% for the dual group (p =062). Access site bleeding complications were lower in in patients treated with dual MCS (5.0 % vs. 24.6 %, p = 0.01). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is associated with endothelial inflammation and a hypercoagulable state resulting in both venous and arterial thromboembolic complications. We present a case of COVID-19-associated aortic thrombus in an otherwise healthy patient.Case Report: A 53-year-old woman with no past medical history presented with a 10-day history of dyspnea, fever, and cough. Her pulse oximetry on room air was 84%. She tested positive for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection, and chest radiography revealed moderate patchy bilateral airspace opacities. Serology markers for cytokine storm were significantly elevated, with a serum D-dimer level of 8180 ng/mL (normal < 230 ng/mL). Computed tomography of the chest with i.v. contrast was positive for bilateral ground-glass opacities, scattered filling defects within the bilateral segmental and subsegmental pulmonary arteries, and a large thrombus was present at the aortic arch. The patient was admitted to the intensive care unit and successfully treated with unfractionated heparin, alteplase 50 mg, and argatroban 2 μg/kg/min. WHY SHOULD AN EMERGENCY PHYSICIAN BE AWARE OF THIS?: Mural aortic thrombus is a rare but serious cause of distal embolism and is typically discovered during an evaluation of cryptogenic arterial embolization to the viscera or extremities. Patients with suspected hypercoagulable states, such as that encountered with COVID-19, should be screened for thromboembolism, and when identified, aggressively anticoagulated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• In drylands, salinity stress reduces production and crop yield. • CRISPR CAS/Cas9, miRNAs, CAM pathways and plant breeding used to cope with the drastic effects of salt stress but costly on ground levels. • Plants that have been inoculated with Endophytes have a higher resistance to salinity. • By inducing systematic resistance, endophytes were able to remove saline stress. • Resistant halotolerant endophytes that have a longer shelf life need to be develop. Climate change is a major concern for sustainable agriculture in the twenty-first century, as it has an impact on crop production and soil fertility, which may increase the risk of famine. Of the array of issues pertaining to climate change, salt stress is one of the most significant factors affecting crop production all over the world. Plants undergo different morphological, physio-chemical, and molecular adaptations to deal with salinity stress. However, several mitigation strategies are also used to cope with the drastic effects of salt stress. Microbial-based solutions, in particular, are highly desirable in sustainable agriculture as they provide a natural, cost-effective, and environmentally safe approach for improving plant growth and yield. Endophytic bacteria not only preserve soil fertility but also boost plant growth under salt stress situations. These bacteria mitigate salt stress by lowering the synthesis of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and facilitating nutrient availability. Moreover, the endophytic bacteria also regulate the expression of genes responsible for producing various phytohormones, antioxidant enzymes, siderophores, volatile organic compounds, and ROS-scavenging enzymes, and other substances. The current research extensively explored the potential pathways involved in plant growth modulation and salinity stress mitigation by endophytic bacteria. Bacterial endophytes as a plant's second genome might be a natural strategy for improving a plant's growth and yield under salt stress conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The microbial diversity of different kinds of stains present on the surface of 14 historical documents (nine parchments and five paper letters) was evaluated through a combination of cultural and molecular methods. The samples were recovered using adhesive tape and swabs and were afterwards treated in two different ways: (1) direct inoculation on agar plates; or (2) suspension in physiological solution and plating in specific plates for the growth of bacteria and fungi. The isolated microorganisms, before identification, were selected by two different PCR-based methods – f-ITS and f-CBH, for bacteria and fungi, respectively. The f-ITS method is based on the amplification of the internal transcribed sequence between the bacterial 16S and 23S rDNA. The f-CBH method is a new molecular selection tool oriented to the fungal cellobiohydrolase gene. Both PCR selection methods produced typical profiles, which clustered the isolates in order to reduce them for subsequent sequencing identification through the amplification of the fungal 28S rRNA and the bacterial 16S rRNA genes. The cellulolytic and proteolytic abilities were screened through the use of three plate assays, the Ostazin Brilliant Red H-3B (OBR-HEC), milk agar, and gelatin agar. Massilia timonae, Lysobacter dokdonensis, and strains belonging to the genus Bacillus sp., Microbacterium sp., and Curtobacterium sp. with different fungal members such as Aspergillus fumigatus, Penicillium commune, Mucor spinosus, and Phoma herbarum (all recovered from paper) displayed both biodegradative activities. The parchment isolates with a marked proteolytic activity were Bacillus cereus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Pseudomonas oryzihabitans, Virgibacillus sp., Micromonospora sp., and again members of the fungal genera Penicillium, Mucor, and Phoma. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Industrial activities have led to a gradual and global increase in soil aluminum (Al) and atmospheric CO 2 concentrations. Al bioavailability strongly depends on the soil pH, which in turn is affected by atmospheric CO 2 levels. In spite of the concurrent impact which Al and elevated CO 2 (eCO 2) could have on plants, their interaction and how it might affect the growth of economically important crop species has not been investigated. Here, we have investigated the combined impact of soil Al and eCO 2 exposure on key C3 (wheat, oat) and C4 (maize, sorghum) crops, at the physiological and biochemical level. Compared to C3 plants, C4 plants accumulated less Al by stimulating soil Al retention through exudation of root organic acids. Consequently, Al-exposed C4 plants maintained photosynthetic performance and anti-oxidative capacity. Exposure to eCO 2 reduced the stress responses of C3 and C4 crops to Al exposure. Elevated CO 2 decreased Al accumulation and oxidative damage in all cereals, and ameliorated C3 plant growth. This was reflected on the biochemical level, where eCO 2 inhibited ROS production and restored RuBisCo activity in C3 crops only. Overall, our data suggest that, compared to C3 crops, C4 cereals are more tolerant to soil Al exposure under current ambient CO 2 (aCO 2) levels whereas future eCO 2 levels might stimulate Al tolerance in C3 crops. [Display omitted] • Al differentially accumulated in C3 and C4. • Al differentially induced oxidative damage in C3 and C4. • eCO2 suppressed Al uptake and antagonized its phytotoxicity. • eCO2 inhibited ROS production and restored RuBisCo activity in C3 plants. • C4 plants appear more tolerant to soil Al exposure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Nostoc muscorum can bio-accumulate large amount of pyridaphenthion (PY). • N. muscorum induced PY detoxification & degradation to less toxic compound. • PY induced photosynthesis inhibition & oxidative stress, particularly in Anabaena laxa. • Improved antioxidative capacity of N. muscorum explains its high stress tolerance. • N. muscorum is a promising candidate for PY remediation. Excessive use of organophosphorus pesticides such as pyridaphenthion (PY) to constrain insects induced crop loss, results in soil and water sources contamination. Cyanobacteria are sensitive biological indicators and promising tools for bioremediation of soil and water pollutants. To understand PY toxicity, detoxification and degradation in cyanobacteria, we performed a comparative study in the two diazotrophic cyanobacteria; Anabaena laxa and Nostoc muscorum. They were exposed to mild (5 mg/L) and high (10 mg/L) concentrations of PY for 7 days. Compared to A. laxa, N. muscorum efficiently showed high PY accumulation and degradation to a safe environmentally product; 6-hydroxy-2-phenylpyridazin-3(2 H)-one. PY inhibited cell growth and reduced Chl a content and photosynthesis related enzymes (PEPC and RuBisCo) activities in both species, but to less extend in N. muscorum. It also induced oxidative damage, particularly in A. laxa , as indicated by high H 2 O 2 , lipid peroxidation and protein oxidation levels and increased NADPH oxidase enzyme activity. N. muscorum invested more in antioxidants induction, i.e., induced ascorbate and glutathione cycle, however, these antioxidants increments in A. laxa were less pronounced. Overall, this study provides more in-deep insights into the PY toxicity and the role of N. muscorum as a promising PY remediator. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Actinobacteria have received much attention due to their capacity for plant growth promotion, a promising approach in sustainable development of agriculture. Date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.) is an important crop, particularly in semi-arid regions of the world, due to the high nutritional and health-promoting values of its fruits. The present study was conducted to investigate the utilization of actinobacteria as an approach to support soil fertility and enhance production and functional food value of date palm fruits in a semi-arid environment. To achieve this purpose, actinobacterial strains were isolated from palm rhizosphere, characterized and screened for bioactivity. Then the potent isolates, based on plant growth promoting assays, were inoculated into the soil rhizosphere of five-target palms (Ajwa, Sokary, Khodry, Rashodia and Saffawy) before flowering and during fruiting stages in two successive seasons. Interestingly, the actinobacterial inoculants increased soil fertility and improved fruit yield of the tested palms. The treated date fruits accumulated higher levels of valuable phytochemicals such as sugars, organic acids, essential amino acids, unsaturated fatty acids, phenolic acids, flavonoids, vitamins and minerals, as compared with the untreated ones. Moreover, actinobacterial treatment induced the biological activities (antioxidant, antibacterial, antifungal and anticancer) of the produce dates. Conclusively, results presented herein suggest the promising application of actinobacteria for supporting the production and functional food value of date palms in semi-arid regions. Graphical abstract Unlabelled Image Highlights • Utilization of actinobacteria resulted in improved soil fertility and yield of date palms. • Treated palm fruits showed enhanced nutritive and health-promoting values. • Major phenolics, flavonoids, vitamins, EAA and PUFA have significantly improved. • Actinobacteria are a promising approach for supporting functional food value of plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The search for environment-friendly, economical and healthy alternatives to agrochemicals tempted us to evaluate the potential of naturally occurring actinomycetes to improve soil properties, plant growth and photosynthesis, grain yield and chemical composition of economically important cereals (wheat, barley, oat, maize and sorghum). To this end, actinomycetes were isolated from soils of local cereals fields, then their biological activities, namely antibacterial, antiprotozoal, antioxidant, and phenolic and flavonoid contents were evaluated. The four most active isolates (9, 16, 24 and 26) were selected and used for enriching the soils until seed set. Each isolate was separately applied. Seeds of the selected cereals were grown in the actinomycete-enriched soils. The soils were analyzed for their electrical conductivity, pH values, total phenolics, organic matter and mineral content. At the vegetative stage, chlorophyll content and gas exchange rates were measured. Mature seeds were then harvested, the yield was evaluated and the seeds were analyzed for their primary and secondary metabolites. The selected isolates improved the grain yield in all tested cereals and most noticeably in barley and maize as compared to control counterparts. These positive effects were probably a result of increased carbon gain due to higher chlorophyll and photosynthetic rate. Isolate 26 showed the highest effect on grains composition profiles followed by the isolate 16. Phenolics and sugars of all grains increased by treatment with the tested isolates. Isolate 26 was the most effective in this regard. All isolates generally improved vitamins, amino acids and organic acids contents in grains. However, fatty acids profile showed a decrease in the content of all measured fatty acids by isolate 26 and an increase in the contents by isolate 16. These results emphasize the potential of actinomycete enrichment as an alternative to agrochemicals and strongly suggest that they can be used in organic farming. Graphical abstract Unlabelled Image Highlights • Several actinomycetes were isolated and identified. • According to their biological activities, 4 out 27 isolates were selected. • Active actinomycetes induced soil fertility e.g., nutrients availability. • Active actinomycetes-treated cereals showed improved yield and grain quality. • Improved grain yield and quality were correlated with increased photosynthesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Most of the studies regarding the impact of ocean acidification on macroalgae have been carried out for short-term periods, in controlled laboratory conditions, thus hampering the possibility to scale up the effects on long-term. In the present study, the volcanic CO 2 vents off Ischia Island were used as a natural laboratory to investigate the metabolic response of the brown alga Sargassum vulgare to acidification at different time scales. For long-term effects, algal populations naturally growing at acidified and control sites were compared. For short-term responses, in situ reciprocal transplants from control to acidified site and vice-versa were performed. Changes in the levels of sugars, fatty acids (FAs), amino acids (AAs), antioxidants, and phenolic compounds were examined. Our main finding includes variable metabolic response of this alga at different time scales to natural acidification. The levels of sugars, FAs, and some secondary metabolites were lower in the natural population at the acidified site, whereas the majority of AAs were higher than those detected in thalli growing at control site. Moreover, in algae transplanted from control to acidified site, soluble sugars (glucose and mannose), majority of AAs, and FAs increased in comparison to control plants transplanted within the same site. The differences in the response of the macroalga suggest that the metabolic changes observed in transplants may be due to acclimation that supports algae to cope with acidification, thus leading to adaptation to lowered pH in long time scale. Graphical abstract Unlabelled Image Highlights • Sargassum vulgare growing at CO 2 vents was compared with those growing at control site. • S. vulgare from control site was transplanted to CO 2 vents for 2 weeks. • In short-term responses, S. vulgare showed increased level of sugars, PUFAs, and EAAs. • Natural population at vents showed decreased sugars, PUFAs, phenols, and increased EAAs. • Nutritional values of algae will decrease under acidification in long time scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aims to evaluate the antimicrobial activity (in vitro study) of olive leaves powder (OLP) and its role in improving the broiler productivity, carcass criteria, blood indices, and antioxidant activity. A total of 270 one-day-old broiler chickens were distributed into 6 treatment groups as follows: the first group: basal diet without any supplementation, while the second, third, fourth, fifth, and sixth groups: basal diet supplemented with 50, 75, 100, 125, and 150 (µg/g), respectively. The in vitro study showed that the OLP has good antibacterial activity in the concentration-dependent matter; OLP 175 µg/mL inhibited the tested bacteria in the zones range of (0.8–4 cm), Klebsiella Pneumonaie (KP) was the most resistant bacteria to OLP concentration. The antioxidant activity of OLP increased with increasing the concentration of OLP compared to ascorbic acid, where OLP 175 µg/mL scavenged 91% of 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radicals compared to 93% scavenging activity of ascorbic acid. Broiler chickens fed diets with OLP had significantly (P < 0.05) higher body weight (BW) and body weight growth (BWG) than the control birds. The treatment with OLP significantly reduced the feed intake (FI) and feed conversion rate (FCR) when compared to control. Groups supplemented with OLP showed decreased abdominal fat deposition and a significant increase in the net carcass and breast muscle weight. OLP improved birds' blood parameters in comparison with control birds. All pathogenic bacterial numbers in caecal samples were decreased with elevating OLP levels, but the cecal Lactobacillus bacterial count was increased. In conclusion, OLP supplementation improved broiler chickens' performance, carcass traits, and blood parameters. Moreover, OLP improved birds' liver functions (reduced Alanine transaminase [ ALT ] and aspartate aminotransferase [ AST ] levels) in comparison with control. In addition, OLP promoted the antioxidant status, minimized the harmful microbial load, and increased beneficial bacterial count in the cecal contents of broilers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]