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Purpose This study explored how exogenous silicon (Si) affects growth and salt resistance in maize. Methods The maize was cultivated in sand-filled pots, incorporating varied silicon and salt stress (NaCl) treatments. Silicon was applied at 0, 2, 4, 6, and 8 mM, and salt stress was induced using 0, 60 and120 mM concentrations. Soil salinity triggers a range of physiochemical abnormalities, often leading to growth arrest and, eventually, the demise of susceptible plants. Results The salt stress significantly reduced the total chlorophyll content (12.58–33.14%), antioxidant enzymes, notably SOD (32–46%), POD (10.33–18.48%), and CAT (10.05–13.19%). In contrast, salt stress increased secondary metabolites, including total phenols (49.11–66.35%.), flavonoids (220.99–280.36%), and anthocyanin (50.04–58.6%). Adding silicon under salt stress reduced the absorption of Na + by 6.69%, 20.7%, 41.12%, and 34.28%, respectively, compared to their respective controls. Additionally, applying Si at 8 mM significantly enhanced antioxidant enzymes such as SOD (50.57%), POD (15.58%), CAT (10.06%) and chlorophyll ratio (21.32%). Conclusion Silicon application positively impacted nearly all growth and physiological features, indicating it helps mitigate against salinity. This was achieved by regulating various salinity indicators, where secondary metabolites, including anthocyanin, ascorbic acid, total phenols, and flavonoids, increased. Graphical Abstract

Nocardiosis is a disease caused by gram-positive, catalase-positive, rod-shaped bacteria that stain weakly on a Gram stain. It usually affects the lungs and skin but can cause disseminated infections. has 85 species, ranging from nonpathogenic to pathogenic. is an opportunistic organism that causes infections in the immunocompromised; however, 7% of the immunocompetent population has suffered from infection. This case report highlights an unusual occurrence of pulmonary nocardiosis in a 31-year-old woman with a normal immune system. She was initially treated as an outpatient for what appeared to be community-acquired pneumonia. However, her condition deteriorated, ultimately revealing a substantial right pleural effusion with loculation and adjacent compressive atelectasis affecting a significant portion of her right middle and lower lung lobes, as detected by a CT scan followed by pleural fluid analysis which confirmed the infection. By sharing this experience, we aim to contribute to the collective knowledge of medical professionals and improve the accuracy of diagnosis and treatment.

Background Boron (B) is an essential micronutrient in higher plants, contributing to various physiological processes. However, its protective mechanism in mitigating salt stress remained less understood. This study investigates that exogenous boron (0, 1, 2 kg ha − 1 ) can help alleviate salt stress (0, 60, 120 mM NaCl) in two soybean cultivars AARI-2021 (V1) and Ajmeri (V2). It examines B role in reactive oxygen species (ROS), secondary metabolites, and antioxidant defense systems in mitigating salt stress. Results Salt stress negatively impacted morph-physiological and biochemical attributes. Boron supplementation (2 kg ha − 1 ) reduced oxidative stress indicators, such as malondialdehyde (by 18% in V1 and by 21% in V2) and hydrogen peroxide (by 30% in V1 and by 38% in V2). Moreover, foliar application of boron (2 kg ha − 1 ) increased the catalase (CAT) (58% in V1 and 57% in V2), superoxide dismutase (SOD) (7% in V1 and 10% in V2), and peroxidase (POD) (42% in V1 and 32% in V2) activities under salt stress. Salt stress also led to an increase in Na + and a decrease in K + and Ca 2+ . However, boron supplementation enhanced K + and Ca 2+ in salt-stressed plants. Furthermore, boron application (2 kg ha − 1 ) increased the activity of secondary metabolites, total phenols content (TPC) (by 52% in V1 and by 59% in V2), total flavonoid content (TFC) (by 27% in V1 and by 21% in V2), and anthocyanins (ANTs) (by 33% in V1 and by 25% in V2) under salt stress. Conclusion This study suggests that B can reduce salinity-induced oxidative damage in soybean plants by modifying antioxidant defense and secondary metabolites and preserving ion homeostasis. Graphical abstract

In a patient with persistent hypokalemia, it is important to consider Gitelman syndrome, a rare, salt-wasting tubulopathy inherited in an autosomal recessive pattern. Gitelman syndrome leads to electrolyte abnormalities like hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, and metabolic alkalosis. Typical clinical features include muscle cramps, fatigue, polydipsia, and salt cravings. Our case involves a female patient in her early 40s who visited the endocrinology clinic with symptoms of polyuria, constipation, muscle weakness, and fatigue. Electrolyte abnormalities included hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypochloremia, and hyperreninemia. Initial tests, such as renal function tests, renal ultrasound, and CT scan, yielded normal results. Differential diagnosis of Gitelman syndrome and Bartter syndrome was considered due to the mutual electrolyte abnormalities of hypokalemia and metabolic alkalosis. Bartter syndrome was ruled out in our patient due to the presence of hypomagnesemia, which indicates a different defective receptor. Ultimately, genetic testing would be necessary to confirm the diagnosis of Gitelman syndrome considering the characteristic electrolyte disturbances and classic clinical presentation of fatigue, weakness, and salt craving.

Objective To compare the acute and long‐term outcomes of high‐power ablation for typical atrial flutter using a 4‐mm irrigated catheter (4‐IC) versus an 8‐mm non‐irrigated catheter (8‐NIC). Methods We conducted a retrospective cohort study of 215 patients who underwent cavotricuspid isthmus (CTI) ablation between January 2019 and December 2024. Patients were divided into two groups based on the catheter used: 4‐IC (n = 113) and 8‐NIC (n = 102). Baseline, procedural, and follow‐up data were analyzed. Results Both groups achieved 100% acute procedural success with no significant difference in CTI block rates. The 8‐NIC group had significantly shorter procedure duration (68.4 ± 15.2 vs. 77.4 ± 18.5 min, p < 0.001), reduced fluoroscopy time, and fewer lesions with shorter total RF delivery time. Periprocedural complications were rare and similar between groups. Over a mean follow‐up of 15.7 ± 7.2 months, atrial flutter recurrence occurred in 12.6% of patients, with no significant difference between groups (14.2% vs. 10.8%, p = 0.442). Rates of atrial fibrillation, pacemaker implantation, and continued anticoagulation were also comparable. Conclusion Both ablation strategies are safe and effective, with the 8‐mm catheter offering greater procedural efficiency without compromising long‐term outcomes. To compare the acute and long‐term outcomes of high‐power ablation for typical atrial flutter using a 4‐mm irrigated catheter (4‐IC) versus an 8‐mm non‐irrigated catheter (8‐NIC). We conducted a retrospective cohort study of 215 patients who underwent cavotricuspid isthmus (CTI) ablation between January 2019 and December 2024. Patients were divided into two groups based on the catheter used: 4‐IC (n = 113) and 8‐NIC (n = 102). Baseline, procedural, and follow‐up data were analyzed. Both groups achieved 100% acute procedural success with no significant difference in CTI block rates. The 8‐NIC group had significantly shorter procedure duration (68.4 ± 15.2 vs. 77.4 ± 18.5 min, p < 0.001), reduced fluoroscopy time, and fewer lesions with shorter total RF delivery time. Periprocedural complications were rare and similar between groups. Over a mean follow‐up of 15.7 ± 7.2 months, atrial flutter recurrence occurred in 12.6% of patients, with no significant difference between groups (14.2% vs. 10.8%, p = 0.442). Rates of atrial fibrillation, pacemaker implantation, and continued anticoagulation were also comparable. Both ablation strategies are safe and effective, with the 8‐mm catheter offering greater procedural efficiency without compromising long‐term outcomes.

Hypokalemia is one of the frequent and clinically important electrolyte disturbances in patients with heart failure (HF), especially among patients under diuretic treatment. The objective of this study was to evaluate the occurrence of hypokalemia and determine clinical predictors of this condition in patients with HF hospitalized on diuretics. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 150 patients with HF in a hospital. Patients who were taking loop or thiazide diuretics for at least one week were included. The participants were divided into the hypokalemic (K < 3.5 mmol/L, n = 47) and normokalemic (K ≥ 3.5 mmol/L, n = 103) groups, based on serum potassium. The demographics, comorbidities, type and dose of diuretic, and other clinical variables were also collected. An automated ion-selective electrode analyzer was utilized to determine the concentration of potassium. SPSS 26.0 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY, US) was used for data analysis with the p-value < 0.05 as significant. The prevalence of hypokalemia in the study population was 47 (31.3%). It strongly correlated with the use of loop diuretics (34 (72.3%) vs. 54 (52.4%), p = 0.042), high-dose diuretics (23 (48.9%) vs. 30 (29.1%), p = 0.015), and the presence of diabetes mellitus (18 (38.3%) vs. 23 (22.3%), p = 0.028). Loop diuretic use (odds ratio (OR) = 2.10, p = 0.023) and its high dose (OR = 1.80, p = 0.018) were the independent predictors of hypokalemia by logistic regression analysis. The study demonstrated that hypokalemia was common among HF patients receiving diuretic therapy, particularly loop diuretics in high doses. Although loop diuretic use and higher doses were significant independent predictors, the efficacy of interventions like dose adjustment or potassium-sparing drugs needs to be further validated in future randomized controlled trials.

Background Temporary pacemaker (TPM) implantation is a critical intervention for managing symptomatic bradyarrhythmias. While infraclavicular access via subclavian or internal jugular veins is commonly used, the supraclavicular approach has emerged as a promising alternative with potential benefits in safety and procedural efficiency. However, data comparing these approaches, particularly in resource‐limited settings, remain limited. Methods We conducted a retrospective observational study at a tertiary care center, evaluating all patients who underwent TPM implantation via either supraclavicular or infraclavicular venous access between January 2020 and December 2024. Baseline characteristics, procedural success, complications, and outcomes were compared. Multivariate logistic regression identified predictors of complications. A ROC curve and Kaplan–Meier analysis were used to evaluate model performance and complication‐free survival. Results Of 3569 patients, 1644 received supraclavicular access and 1925 received infraclavicular access. The supraclavicular group had a significantly lower overall complication rate (9.3% vs. 14.8%, p < 0.001), including fewer arterial punctures, pneumothoraces, lead dislodgements, and hematomas. First‐attempt success (89.4% vs. 83.2%, p < 0.001) and mean procedure time (24.6 ± 7.8 min vs. 29.1 ± 9.4 min, p < 0.001) were also better with supraclavicular access. On multivariate analysis, supraclavicular access was independently associated with fewer complications (adjusted OR 0.59, p < 0.001). Kaplan–Meier analysis showed longer complication‐free survival in the supraclavicular group (log‐rank p = 0.01). Conclusions Supraclavicular venous access for TPM implantation is associated with fewer complications, greater procedural efficiency, and improved patient outcomes compared to infraclavicular access. Wider adoption may improve safety in high‐volume or resource‐limited settings. This study compared supraclavicular versus infraclavicular venous access for temporary pacemaker implantation in 3569 patients. Supraclavicular access showed fewer complications, higher first‐attempt success, shorter procedure time, and improved complication‐free survival. Findings suggest supraclavicular access is a safer, more efficient approach, particularly beneficial in high‐volume and resource‐limited healthcare settings.

Introduction: Acrodermatitis enteropathica (AE) is a rare genetic disorder that results in impaired zinc absorption due to a mutation in the SLC39A4 gene, leading to systemic zinc deficiency with characteristic dermatologic, immunologic, and gastrointestinal manifestations. Case Presentation: This case report presents a 6-year-old boy with recurrent AE, exhibiting widespread vesiculopustular lesions, alopecia, chronic diarrhea, and poor growth, symptoms typical of zinc deficiency syndromes. Initial diagnosis was supported by low serum zinc levels, elevated C-reactive protein, and IgE, indicating an inflammatory process. Despite the absence of genetic confirmation, the clinical and laboratory findings were consistent with AE. Treatment with oral zinc supplementation resulted in rapid symptomatic improvement, underscoring the essential role of zinc in skin integrity and immune function. Conclusion: This case highlights AE’s diagnostic challenges, especially in resource-limited settings lacking access to genetic testing, and the critical need for long-term zinc monitoring to manage recurrent symptoms and prevent toxicity. AE’s rare incidence and overlapping symptoms with other dermatologic and metabolic disorders necessitate a high degree of clinical suspicion, emphasizing the importance of zinc in pediatric growth and immune health. This report contributes valuable insights for managing recurrent AE presentations, particularly in contexts with limited diagnostic resources.

Background: Alligatorweed (Alternanthera philoxeroides) is an invasive weed species whose increasing infestations challenge sunflower production under climate change settings. Objective: Evaluate the impact of A. philoxeroides at different competition durations on nutrient accumulation and sunflower production, and determine the critical period of weed competition (CPWC). Methods: Two-year yield study was executed with treatments including A. philoxeroides competition durations i.e. weed free conditions for first 21, 28, 35, 42 and 49 days after crop emergence along with a full season weed free treatment and conversely weedy conditions for the first 21, 28, 35, 42 and 49 days after crop emergence along with a full season weedy treatment (90–100 days). Results: Weed infestation caused significant accumulation of nutrients, weedy for full season caused more accumulation of macronutrients (N, P and K at 62, 48, 55 kg ha-1, respectively) and micronutrients (Cu, Fe, Mn and Zn at 19, 186, 137, 72 g ha-1, respectively). Full season weedy produced more weed biomass (2098 kg ha-1) and caused maximum reduction in achene (55%) and oil yield (50%) of sunflower. Four parameters log-logistic model revealed that A. philoxeroides infestation for 56.66 DACE and 64.49 DACE caused 50% achene yield loss in sunflower in 2020 and 2021, respectively. Further, model predicted A. philoxeroides competition for 4 DACE to 40.97 DACE and 6.36 DACE to 45.29 DACE as CPWC to cause 5% and 10% achene yield losses, respectively. Conclusions: Timely control of A. philoxeroides within the CPWC is crucial for mitigating yield losses and ensuring sustainable sunflower production. Furthermore, the nutrient accumulation potential of aquatic A. philoxeroides could potentially be harnessed for heavy metal accumulation, benefiting both aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems.

Omentin-1 is secreted from visceral adipose tissue that contributes to chronic inflammatory diseases' pathogenesis, including cardiovascular events. In this case-control study, we will determine the association between plasma omentin and coronary artery disease (CAD).INTRODUCTIONOmentin-1 is secreted from visceral adipose tissue that contributes to chronic inflammatory diseases' pathogenesis, including cardiovascular events. In this case-control study, we will determine the association between plasma omentin and coronary artery disease (CAD).This is a case-control study, conducted from June 2020 to April 2021 in the cardiology unit of a tertiary care hospital in Pakistan. Patients diagnosed with CAD (n = 300) within the last six months were included in the study. Another 300 participants without CAD and with similar demographic profiles were included in the control group. A blood sample of 5 ml was drawn from participants of both groups and sent to the laboratory to test for plasma omentin level.METHODSThis is a case-control study, conducted from June 2020 to April 2021 in the cardiology unit of a tertiary care hospital in Pakistan. Patients diagnosed with CAD (n = 300) within the last six months were included in the study. Another 300 participants without CAD and with similar demographic profiles were included in the control group. A blood sample of 5 ml was drawn from participants of both groups and sent to the laboratory to test for plasma omentin level.Plasma omentin level was significantly lower in patients with CAD compared to the patients without CAD (61.21 ± 10.21 ng/dL vs. 95.22 ± 12.21 ug/L; p-value: <0.0001). In both genders, the plasma omentin-1 was lower in patients with CAD compared to patients without CAD (p-value: <0.0001).RESULTSPlasma omentin level was significantly lower in patients with CAD compared to the patients without CAD (61.21 ± 10.21 ng/dL vs. 95.22 ± 12.21 ug/L; p-value: <0.0001). In both genders, the plasma omentin-1 was lower in patients with CAD compared to patients without CAD (p-value: <0.0001). The present study revealed a negative association between omentin-1 and CAD. We speculate that low levels of omentin-1 might play a role in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. Therefore, plasma omentin-1 can be a potential biomarker to predict the development and progression of CAD.CONCLUSION The present study revealed a negative association between omentin-1 and CAD. We speculate that low levels of omentin-1 might play a role in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. Therefore, plasma omentin-1 can be a potential biomarker to predict the development and progression of CAD.