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• Different levels of drought stress result in changes in gene expression and reduce plant growth and development. • The proper concentration of nutrients can increase plant efficiency under stress and normal conditions. • Molybdenum can lead to dryness adjustment through different pathways, including the accumulation of osmolytes, increasing the activity of enzymes and reducing the content of oxidative markers. Drought stress is a multidimensional abiotic stress that negatively affects plant growth and yield. Therefore, identifying useful, low-cost, and low-risk solutions to deal with drought along with identifying tolerant plants is crucial for sustainable agriculture and crop production worldwide. In some cases, due to a lack of nutrients, even if there is enough moisture, the plants are still unable to absorb water. Increasing essential macro- and micronutrients may reduce the harmful effects of abiotic stresses, among which drought, while increasing yield. The essential element molybdenum (Mo) has a role in many processes such as photosynthesis, nitrogen (N) metabolism, hormone signaling and tolerance of abiotic stresses. Plants absorb Mo as molybdate anion (MoO 4 2−), which is the main common soluble form of Mo present in neutral to alkaline soils. Mo has a unique effect on the synthesis of hormones and enzymes, and thus affecting plant water relationships and response to environmental stresses. On the other hand, limited water resources and lack of access to adequate water for agricultural production in terms of quantity and quality risk compromising the uptake of Mo which is already critical in soils acidic and/or poor in this essential micronutrient. This study systematically investigated the response to Mo stress and provided valuable evidence for the efficacy of Mo as a candidate to temper the adverse effects of drought stress on crops. Further, this review article also explains the mechanistic actions exerted by Mo in alleviating the drastic effects of drought on crops. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Innovation chemotherapeutic nano drug delivery systems (NDDSs) with various pharmacological achievement have become one of the hopeful therapeutic strategies in cancer therapy. This study focused on low pH, and high levels of glutathione (GSH) as two prominent characteristics of the tumor microenvironment (TME) to design a novel TME-targeted pH/redox dual-responsive P (AMA-co-DMAEMA)-b-PCL-SS-PCL-b-P (AMA-co-DMAEMA) nanoparticles (NPs) for deep tumor penetration and targeted anti-tumor therapy. The positively charged NPs exhibit strong electrostatic interactions with negatively charged cell membranes, significantly enhancing cellular uptake. Moreover, these NPs possess the unique size-shrinkable property, transitioning from 98.24 ± 27.78 to 45.56 ± 20.62 nm within the TME. This remarkable size change fosters an impressive uptake of approximately 100% by MDA-MB-231 cells within just 30 min, thereby greatly improving drug delivery efficiency. This size switchability enables passive targeting through the enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect, facilitating deep penetration into tumors. The NPs also demonstrate improved pH/redox-triggered drug release (∼70% at 24 h) within the TME and exhibit no toxicity in cell viability test. The cell cycle results of treated cells with docetaxel (DTX)-loaded NPs revealed G2/M (84.6 ± 1.16%) arrest. The DTX-loaded NPs showed more apoptosis (62.6 ± 3.7%) than the free DTX (51.8 ± 3.2%) in treated cells. The western blot and RT-PCR assays revealed that apoptotic genes and proteins expression of treated cells were significantly upregulated with the DTX-loaded NPs vs. the free DTX (Pvalue<.001). In conclusion, these findings suggest that this novel-engineered NPs holds promise as a TME-targeted NDDS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have developed an innovative mesoporous nanocatalyst by carefully attaching a 2-aminothiophenol-Cu complex onto functionalized MCM-41. This straightforward synthesis process has yielded a versatile nanocatalyst known for its outstanding efficiency, recyclability, and enhanced stability. The structural integrity of the nanocatalyst was comprehensively analyzed using an array of techniques, including BET (Brunauer–Emmett–Teller) for surface area measurement, ICP (Inductively Coupled Plasma) for metal content determination, EDS (Energy-Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy) for elemental mapping, XRD (X-ray Diffraction) for crystalline structure elucidation, SEM (Scanning Electron Microscopy), EMA (Elemental Mapping Analysis), TEM (Transmission Electron Microscopy), TGA (Thermogravimetric Analysis), FT-IR (Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy), AFM (Atomic Force Microscopy), and CV (cyclic voltammetry). Subsequently, the catalytic properties of the newly developed MCM-41-CPTEO-2-aminothiophenol-Cu catalyst was evaluated in the synthesis of biphenyls, demonstrating outstanding yields through a Suzuki coupling reaction between phenylboronic acid and aryl halides. Importantly, this reaction was conducted in an environmentally friendly medium. Note the remarkable recyclability of the catalyst, proving its sustainability over six cycles with minimal loss in activity additionally hot filtration test was prepared to examine the stability of this nanocatalyst. This outstanding feature emphasizes the catalyst's potential for long-term, environmentally conscious catalytic applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was aimed to examine the antibacterial activity of the T. aphylla leaves ethanolic extract in vitro against the locally strain heterogeneous vancomycin intermediated Staphylococcus aureus (hVISA) at different concentrations starting from 0.03 to 200 mg/ml. T.aphylla leaves were extracted by ethanol 96% in the Soxhlet extraction unit. Using both gas chromatography and mass spectrometry (GC/MS), the results indicated that the composition of T. aphylla extract was oil and include a variety of chemicals, including 9,12- Octadecadienoic acid, methyl ester (20.06%), followed by Phytol, acetate (18.93%) and Hexadecanoic acid, methyl ester (12.14%), were in leaves. The concentration of 1.5 (mg/ml.) was determined as a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) for hVISA antibacterial activity. Gene expression was detected using the Quantitative Real-Time PCR technique; before and after treatment with T. aphylla leaves extracts; the gene expression was low after treatment with T. aphylla leaves extracts. In conclusion, T. aphylla leaves extract is a promising alternative medication that can treat the infection caused by hVISA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wetland mapping is a critical component of environmental monitoring, requiring advanced techniques to accurately represent the complex land cover patterns and subtle class differences innate in these ecosystems. This study aims to address these challenges by proposing CVTNet, a novel deep learning (DL) model that integrates convolutional neural networks (CNNs) and vision transformer (ViT) architectures. CVTNet uses channel attention (CA) and spatial attention (SA) mechanisms to enhance feature extraction from Sentinel-1 (S1) and Sentinel-2 (S2) satellite data. The primary goal of this model is to achieve a balanced trade-off between Precision and Recall, which is essential for accurate wetland mapping. The class-specific analysis demonstrated CVTNet's proficiency across diverse classes, including pasture, shrubland, urban, bog, fen, and water. Comparative analysis showed that CVTNet outperforms contemporary algorithms such as Random Forest (RF), ViT, multi-layer perceptron mixer (MLP-mixer), and hybrid spectral net (HybridSN) classifiers. Additionally, the attention mechanism (AM) analysis and sensitivity analysis highlighted the crucial role of CA, SA, and ViT in focusing the model's attention on critical regions, thereby improving the mapping of wetland regions. Despite challenges at class boundaries, particularly between bog and fen, and misclassifications of swamp pixels, CVTNet presents a solution for wetland mapping. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fireproof coatings are the simplest, most efficient, and oldest method for protecting a wide range of flammable products, such as wood. Furthermore, surface ignition is the initial phase, so surface protection is essential to reduce fire propagation. Furthermore, delaying the spread of flames can help to save someone when a fire starts. This project synthesized flame-resistant resin starting from tetraallyloxysilane monomer as a halogen-free monomer, an intrinsic flame retardant co-curing agent. The following step synthesized polyester resin using terephthalic acid as a heat-resistant resin. Unsaturated polyester was used by bulk radical polymerization. FT-IR and 1H-NMR analysis showed the successful synthesis of the desired monomer and polymeric compound. The thermal degradation and flame retardancy of pure unsaturated polyester resin (UPE) and allyloxysilane-unsaturated polyester (AUPE) were investigated by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA/DTG/DSC). The burning test and the thermal stability of the coating layers were evaluated using standard UL 94. Physical properties of resins were evaluated using Heat Deflection Temp tests (HDT) ISO 75-A, ASTM 648, Hardness ASTM D2583, Volumetric shrinkage ASTM 3521, and Water absorption ASTM D570. The results of the tests show the successful synthesis and their flame retardant properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, using nanomaterials based on multi-wall carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) through the activation of peroxymonosulfate (PMS) has attracted more attention to the degradation of organic pollutants. This research presented a new route for the synthesis of MWCNT/CoMn2O4 nanocomposite for the degradation of picric acid using advanced oxidation processes (AOPs). Firstly, CoMn2O4 nanoparticles were prepared and then loaded on MWCNT using ultrasonic waves. The results of various analyzes confirmed the successful loading of nanoparticles on carbon nanotubes. As the degradation process proceeds through oxidation processes, the high electronic conductivity of MWCNT and the active sites of Mn and Co in the nanocomposite play an essential role in activating PMS to generate reactive oxygen species (ROS). An investigation of the reaction mechanism in different conditions showed that the highest speed of picric acid decomposition in the presence of nanocomposite (98%) was in 47 min. However, the scavenger test showed that HO· and SO4·− radicals are more important in the degradation process. Meanwhile, the results showed that removing picric acid using MWCNT/CoMn2O4 was more effective than CoMn2O4 alone and confirmed the interaction effect of MWCNT nanotubes with AB2O4 nanocatalyst. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wildfires significantly threaten ecosystems and human lives, necessitating effective prediction models for the management of this destructive phenomenon. This study integrates Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) and Bidirectional Long Short-Term Memory (BiLSTM) modules to develop a novel deep learning model called CNN-BiLSTM for near-real-time wildfire spread prediction to capture spatial and temporal patterns. This study uses the Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite (VIIRS) active fire product and a wide range of environmental variables, including topography, land cover, temperature, NDVI, wind informaiton, precipitation, soil moisture, and runoff to train the CNN-BiLSTM model. A comprehensive exploration of parameter configurations and settings was conducted to optimize the model's performance. The evaluation results and their comparison with benchmark models, such as a Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) and CNN-LSTM models, demonstrate the effectiveness of the CNN-BiLSTM model with IoU of F1 Score of 0.58 and 0.73 for validation and training sets, respectively. This innovative approach offers a promising avenue for enhancing wildfire management efforts through its capacity for near-real-time prediction, marking a significant step forward in mitigating the impact of wildfires. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel pH/redox-responsive hyperbranched MeO-PEG-b-(NIPAAm-co-PBAE) nanoparticles (NPs) were designed with size shrinkage and charge-reversible potential for targeted delivery of docetaxel (DTX) to MDA-MB-231 cell lines. In the tumor microenvironment (TME), amine protonation induces charge reversal and disulfide bond cleavage under high TME GSH concentration causing size shrinkage, improved deep tumor penetration, and active targeting of the therapeutic agents. These nano drug delivery systems (NDDSs) significantly promoted cancer cell uptake (~ 100% at 0.5 h), facilitating site-specific delivery and deep tumor penetration. The MTT assay revealed significantly higher cytotoxicity (P value < 0.0001) for DTX-loaded NPs compared to free DTX. Cell cycle analysis revealed G2/M (58.3 ± 2.1%) and S (21.5 ± 1.3%) arrest for DTX-loaded NPs, while free DTX caused G2/M (67.9 ± 1.1%) and sub-G1 (10.3 ± 0.8%) arrest. DTX-loaded NPs induced higher apoptosis (P value < 0.001) in MDA-MB-231 cells (71.5 ± 2.8%) compared to free DTX (42.3 ± 3.1%). Western blotting and RT-PCR assays confirmed significant up-regulation of protein levels and apoptotic genes by DTX-loaded NPs compared to free DTX. In conclusion, TME-responsive charge reversal and size-shrinkable smart NDDSs designed based on low pH, and high glutathione (GSH), offer more effective site-specific delivery of therapeutic agents to tumors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research investigated the utilization of graphene quantum dot/montmorillonite (GQD/MMT) as an effective nanofiller in a hydrogel composed of salep biopolymer. The semi-IPN hydrogel was synthesized using salep as the substrate, acrylamide (AAm) as the monomer, ammonium persulfate (APS) as an initiator in free radical polymerization, and N,N'-methylenebisacrylamide (MBA) as a cross-linking agent. The hydrogels were applied to remove safranin (SA), methylene blue (MB), crystal violet (CV), methyl green (MG), congo red (CR), and malachite green (MG) dyes from the water. The diverse properties were analyzed using a scanning electron microscope, fourier infrared spectroscopy, mapping, energy dispersive spectroscopy, weighing analysis, X-ray diffraction, and thermal stability analyses. The optimism of the prepared adsorbent in dye absorption was evaluated by measuring the swelling amount, pH impact, adsorbent dosage, and contact time. The adsorption calculations were described using kinetics and isotherm models. The results indicated that the Langmuir isotherm model (R2 = 99.6) and the pseudo-second-order kinetic model (R2 = 99.9) provided the best fit for the absorption process of MB. The presence of additional amounts of GQD/MMT had a reciprocal effect on the adsorption efficiency due to the accumulation of GQD/MMT in the semi-interpenetrating polymer network (semi-IPN (structure. The findings revealed that the samples exhibited high thermal stability, and the absorption process was primarily chemical. Furthermore, the nanocomposite hydrogels demonstrated distinct mechanisms for absorbing anionic dye (CR) and cationic dye (MB). Under optimal conditions, using 7 wt% GQD/MMT at a concentration of 5 ppm, pH = 7, an adsorbent dosage of 50 mg, at room temperature, and a contact time of 90 min, the maximum removal efficiencies were achieved: MB (96.2%), SA (98.2%), MG (86%), CV (99.8%), MG (95.8%), and CR (63.4%). These results highlight the adsorbent's high absorption capacity, rapid removal rate, and reusability, demonstrating its potential as an eco-friendly and cost-effective solution for removing dyes from water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A significant challenge for scientists today is to design green and eco‐friendly catalysts based on green chemistry with high catalytic performance and recycling properties. Many studies have aimed to address environmental issues by developing green chemical processes and catalysts that reduce the production of harmful substances. β‐Cyclodextrin (β‐CD), a class of cyclic oligomers, has garnered considerable attention in recent decades. It has been utilized as a green alternative catalyst in various organic conversions, demonstrating satisfactory catalytic activity and improved efficiency of organic reactions. The availability, non‐toxicity, low cost, renewability, and high performance in organic transformations are several benefits of cyclodextrins that have attracted interest from research groups worldwide. The click reaction is well‐known in green chemistry for its high selectivity and efficiency in producing 1,2,3‐triazoles with significant medicinal activities. This reaction involves aryl/alkyl halides, alkynes, and NaN3 under ambient conditions to generate necessary scaffolds called 1,2,3‐triazoles. Therefore, finding green approaches for synthesizing 1,2,3‐triazoles is of great interest. In recent decades, significant advancements have been made in developing metal‐catalyzed click reactions to synthesize 1,2,3‐triazole derivatives. Carolyn Bertozzi, Morten Meldal, and Barry Sharpless were awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 2022 for their contributions to the foundations of click and bio‐orthogonal chemistry. In transition, metal‐catalyzed click reactions, using modified β‐CD derivatives as catalysts is particularly advantageous because of their valuable catalytic properties and their ability to form inclusion complexes with different metals. This review focuses on the catalyzed click reaction using β‐CD‐based catalysts to prepare triazoles. Using biodegradable β‐CD has made the method safe, sustainable, and eco‐friendly. The click reaction has provided access to various 1,2,3‐triazoles essential in pharmaceutical products and exhibits diverse biological activities. The specific purpose of this review is to summarize the application of β‐CD‐based catalyst systems in click reactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main purpose of this research is to evaluate the antibacterial essential oil of Peganum harmala L. seeds against locally isolated heterogeneous vancomycin intermediated Staphylococcus aureus (hVISA) at doses ranging from 0.03 to 200 mg/ml. The filtered essential oil of P. harmala, after extract by the 96% ethanol in a Soxhlet extraction device, was analyzed by GC/MS (gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy). The results showed that the P. harmala seeds oils contained several compounds, such as Harmine (58.26%), followed by 9,12-Octadecadienoic acid (Z,Z)-, methyl ester (28.55%) and Hexadecanoic acid, methyl ester (4.30%), It is highly effective against targeted bacteria. The MIC method was used to investigate antibacterial activity by measuring the lowest inhibitory concentration of the extract and observed that the inhibition concentration against hVISA isolates was 0.3 mg/ml. The gene expression was detected after RNA extract from hVISA (untreated and treated) with P. harmala essential oil using the Quantitative Real-Time PCR method the results revealed that gene expression was low after bacterial with plant extract treatment. Finally, the ethanolic extract of p. harmala seeds appears to be a potential therapy choice for hVISA infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The graphene family and graphite oxide catalysts, particularly graphene oxide structures, have emerged over the past decade as a robust approach for developing common organic reactions and synthesizing heterocyclic compounds under different conditions. This review highlights the potential of using these catalysts for selective organic compounds, particularly N-heterocyclic compounds, which have numerous applications in life and material science. This article also provides an overview of different graphene oxide catalytic structures based on Fe, Cu, Mn, Pd, Ni, Co, Si, and Al for synthesizing N-heterocyclic compounds. Catalyst attributes include recyclability, effectiveness, catalyst lifespan, lack of catalyst nanoparticle mass, and the required time for catalyst effects on the reactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research aims to discover a viable substitute for the common harmful plastic packaging utilized in food products. Citric acid was employed as an accessible and risk-free precursor in synthesizing graphene quantum dots (GQDs). Using the efficient carbonization technique, GQDs were obtained and subsequently transferred to nano-biofilms in varying percentages relative to natural polymers. FT-IR, XRD, FE-SEM, EDX, and AFM analyses were conducted to examine the formation of the nano-biofilms. GQDs demonstrated optimal performance in the disk diffusion method and the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical approach. Adding GQDs to starch and gelatin composite improved the physical properties of nano-biofilms such as moisture contact, swelling index, and solubility. The transparency of the films was reduced by GQDs, which reduces the transmission of visible light and plays an important role in food protection. The packaging films' weight loss due to decomposition was examined after being buried in soil for 50 days, which relieved the eco-concerns of these packaging films. To evaluate the performance of the films in inhibiting food spoilage, cherries, and cucumbers were packed with a control film and the fabricated film containing 14 wt% of GQD. After 14 days, the modified nano-biofilm was able to maintain the freshness of the samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

E. coli responsible for urinary tract infections (UTI) became resistant to obtainable therapies. So, nanotechnology appears currently as promising innovation among various strategies under development. In the present study we evaluate the antimicrobial effects of CuO and ZnO nanoparticles against E. coli isolated from UTI. Biofilm production and expression of quorum sensing genes luxS and motA were performed on E. coli treated with the nanoparticles. luxS and motA genes were detected in the tested E. coli. All isolates produced strong, moderate and weak biofilm. All isolates had a weak biofilm formation and decreased gene expression for luxS and motA genes after treatment with CuO, ZnO and their mixture. Besides, CuO and ZnO had non-toxic effects on Human Dermal Fibroblasts and neonatal normal cells. In conclusion, the mixture of CuO and ZnO had a role in decreasing the gene expression of luxS and motA genes more than each alone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A water-soluble nickel complex based on amino-β-CD was developed using a facile method and exhibits excellent catalytic performance in the Suzuki reaction in water. This synthesized complex has been characterized using UV–Vis, AAS, TGA, and FT-IR techniques. The easily synthesized novel supramolecular catalysts have been applied as a green and eco-friendly catalyst in the Suzuki coupling for preparing diverse biaryls. This result indicates that using 2.5 mol% of nickel, K2CO3 as the best base, and water as the green solvent are the best reaction conditions. This new catalyst features easy handling, low-cost, mild, and simple protocol. The use of low-cost and accessibility of the reagents, modest conditions, and good yields of products are notable characteristics of this method. Using aqueous media with this catalyst as a proper catalyst makes the presented process a fascinating method compared to most reports. Under mild reaction conditions, this green Ni(II)-β-CD catalyst displayed recyclable behavior seven times with minor loss in its catalytic activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Regarding the incremental shortage of water resources, wastewater treatment is essential for guarding the ecosystem and the sufficient usage of water resources. Freshwater, a vital item of life for humans and animals, is in danger because of the existence of destructive pollutants, such as p‐nitrophenol (p‐NP), and organic azo dyes, leading to water pollution. Among environmental pollution, water pollution has been recognized as one of the important threat agents in charge of many illnesses in humans. Nitrophenols contain high stability and solubility in water, which causes health risks. It is essential to change these harmful chemicals into healthy materials to have a safe life on the globe. Nitro compounds obtained from industrial wastewater are a severe threat to human being health and living organisms. Hence, designing green strategies and environment‐friendly catalysts to reduce toxic contaminants such as nitro compounds and dyes is a considerable challenge. One technique to overcome this crisis is the catalytic hydrogenation of nitro compounds to the amines, which are invaluable and non‐toxic materials. Reducing nitroarenes can be synthesized the amines, vital intermediates in organic and biological chemistry. Designing green strategies in nitro reduction processes for synthetic organic chemists is a great challenge. The nitroarene reduction reaction is a very efficient, reliable, and environmentally friendly method for synthesizing amines. Cyclodextrin (CD) can be applied as an effective catalyst in many aqueous organic reactions. Their derivatives have exhibited outstanding performance in water‐mediated organic synthesis and are now of ongoing attraction to many scientists in various fields. CDs show better catalytic activity and selectivity due to their particular geometry and structural interactions. CDs catalyzed reactions have been getting significant attention recently due to their low toxicity, biodegradability, economically and eco‐friendly behavior. Many reports are available in the literature on CDs material considered promising catalysts in reducing nitro compounds. This review article focuses on the use of β‐CD catalyst systems as valuable catalysts in the hydrogenation of nitroarenes and overviews articles up to 2023. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study reported a novel and eco‐friendly synthesis of Fe3O4@ZIF‐8@Glycerol‐Ni nanocatalyst via a multistep process. The as‐prepared catalyst was used due to its high efficiency, low cost, and biocompatibility for the fabrication of dihydropyrimidinones by Biginelli multicomponent reactions of aryl aldehyde, ethyl acetoacetate, and urea under ambient status. X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), Brunauer‐Emmet‐Teller (BET), vibrating sample magnetometry (VSM), scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive X‐ray (SEM‐EDS), inductively coupled plasma (ICP), elemental mapping analysis (EMA), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), Raman, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) techniques were successfully utilized to evaluate the nanocatalyst. The advent of the peaks confirmed the presence of nickel on the catalyst's surface due to the oxygen and nickel, and the nanoparticle size is 10–15 nm. Eventually, nano‐heterogeneous catalyst exhibits high performance as well as good selectivity in the synthesis of dihydropyrimidinones. Also, it can be recycled up to multiple fresh runs with no significant loss of catalytic efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heterocycles and barbituric acid analogs are particularly used in developing and designing new drugs because of their versatile binding properties for different biotargets. They are present in many natural compounds, vitamins, drugs, and biologically active molecules such as anticancer, antibiotic, antidiabetic, anti‐inflammatory, antidepressant, anti‐HIV, antimicrobial, and insecticidal agents. Using co‐friendly techniques under nanocatalyst conditions drives the synthesis of these bioactive compounds toward green chemistry. This review will investigate the nanocatalysts, including magnetic nanocatalysts, nano metal‐based catalysts, organo‐nanocatalysts, and metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) nanocatalysts employed in the synthesis and design of heterocyclic compounds by barbituric acids from 2017 to 2022. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, an efficient, novel, retrievable, and magnetic heterogeneous nanocatalyst, Fe3O4@CPTMS@Asp@Ni was successfully fabricated using Fe3O4 nanoparticles as the core that were coated with surfactant and 3‐chloropropyltrimethoxysilan and deposited asparagine and nickel metal that can be used in multicomponent reactions for the synthesis of acridines derivatives with high yield in short reaction times. The virtue of obtained nanocatalyst was identified using transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction analysis, energy dispersive X‐ray, Brunauer–Emmett–Teller, vibrating sample magnetometry, Raman, and thermogravimetric analysis. The X‐ray diffraction analysis studies demonstrate that the average crystallite sizes of the prepared nanocatalyst are estimated to be about 45.4 nm. Also, the vibrating sample magnetometry measurement shows saturation magnetization values (Ms) of 7 emu/g for Fe3O4@CPTMS@Asp@Ni nanocatalyst. Also, after the synthesis steps, the application of the prepared nanocatalyst in the preparation of acridine‐1,8(2H,5H)‐diones has been investigated. Then to evaluate and assess the efficiency of the nanocatalyst as mentioned above, and its effect on the synthesis of divergent acridines via a one‐pot, three‐component condensation reaction of cyclic 1,3‐dione, aryl glyoxal, with ammonium acetate in the water as green solvent was studied. Also, when investigating the reusability of this catalyst, it was observed that Fe3O4@CPTMS@Asp@Ni nanocatalyst could be reused at least five times without losing its efficiency. High efficiency, outstanding yields in quick intervals, easy separation using a magnetic field, and possessing reusability are significant benefits of the attained nanocatalyst. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the research, the core–shell procedure synthesized a novel magnetically separable heterogeneous nanocatalyst with high stability named Fe3O4@CPTMO@dithizone-Ni. In this method, Fe3O4 was modified as a magnetic core using surfactant (SDS) and polyethylene glycol (PEG) coating; after functionalizing the magnetic nanoparticles with 3-chloropropyl-tri-methoxysilane and dithizone, Ni metal was immobilized. The prepared catalyst was identified and specified utilizing diverse physicochemical techniques involving FT-IR, XRD, SEM, EMA, BET, ICP, EDS, TGA, Raman, and TEM. In the following, to vouch for the efficiency of the obtaining catalyst for the green synthesis of 4H-benzo[h]chromenes utilizing the three-component, one-pot condensation reaction of α-naphthol, aryl glyoxal, and malononitrile as precursors were evaluated. The catalyst exhibited high recyclability with a slight reduction in activity at least eight series without a substantial decrease in stability and efficiency. The synthesized nanocatalyst was evaluated in various conditions such as different solvents, etc. the best of these conditions is the initial concentration of 30 mg of nanocatalyst with water as a solvent in 3 min with 98% yield. The prominent merits of the present research include easy separation of the catalyst without centrifugation, high-accessible raw precursors, cost-effectiveness, environmental friendliness, green reaction status, quick reaction, and excellent product yields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The prevalence of Metabolic Syndrome (MetS) is different among different populations. The human Paraoxonase (PON) genes have been less reported in the literature. So it is a need of hour to study PON. Aim and Objectives:To determine the Paraoxonase I (PON1) gene polymorphisms and its paraoxonase activity in subjects with and without Metabolic Syndrome (MetS). Material and Methods: Determination of the PON1 gene polymorphisms were done using Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) and Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism (RFLP) analysis. Results: The MM, LM, and LL genotype frequencies of the PON1- L55M polymorphism were 2.5, 37.5 and 60%; and 27.6, 34.5 and 37.9% and; 19.4, 50 and 30.6% and 17.2, 58.6 and 34.2% in females and males with and without MetS, respectively. Females with L allele of L55M polymorphism had a nearly 14.86 -fold risk of developing MetS. Conclusion: Our study suggested that the decrease of PON1 enzymatic activity in both genders is an important finding, but the L55M genotype and L allele in females with MetS are more important risk factors of MetS than PON1 Q192R polymorphism. This difference in L55M among females may make them more vulnerable than males to MetS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The addition of graphene oxide nano-composite is simulated and investigated for increasing the adsorption capacity of the polysulfone/polyethylene glycol polymer (PSF/PEG) by DFT methods. The graphene oxide nano-composite is the binding of poly-diallyl dimethyl ammonium chloride (DADMAC) chains using potassium ethyl xanthate (EX) and 2-bromo-propionyl bromide intermediates on carboxyl functional groups in nano-graphene oxide (NGO). The PSF/PEG polymer has two ends with different functional groups, which is investigated the interaction of the nano-composite (NGO-BPB-DADMAC-EX) with both ends polymer. The results show phenoxide end of PSF/PEG has a greater tendency to react with the nano-composite (Etotal = 162.991 GJ mol−1). This study simulated and calculated the proposed mechanism of removal and conversion of dye compounds (methyl red and methylene blue) by NGO-BED@PSF/PEG nano-adsorbent. Due to the presence of functionalized graphene oxide (carboxylate and ammonium groups), the nano-adsorbent has positive and negative charges, which cause the migration of hydrophilic groups to the polymer nano-adsorbent. The thermodynamic and structure parameters show nano-adsorbent of NGO-BED@PSF/PEG contain a high capacity to remove dye contaminants by adsorption, have huge potential for the remediation of pollutants. The results show that the absorption and conversion of methylene blue are more dependent on the geometric structure of the compounds and the type of atoms. By adding modified nano-graphene oxide (NGO-BED) to the nanocomposite of polysulfone/polyethylene glycol polymer (PSF/PEG), its efficiency increases. The NGO-BED@PSF/PEG can be used to remove dye compounds in environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) may cause premature development of some diseases. PON1 genes may be involved in the pathogenesis of MetS. The aim of study was to evaluate the association between Q192R and L55M gene polymorphisms and its enzyme activity with the MetS components in subjects with and without MetS. Polymerase Chain Reaction and Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism analysis were performed to determine polymorphisms of the paraoxonase1 gene in subjects with and without metabolic syndrome. Biochemical parameters were measured by spectrophotometer. The MM, LM, and LL genotype frequencies of the PON1 L55M polymorphism were 10.5, 43.4, and 46.1%, and 22.4, 46.6, and 31% and; the QQ, QR, and RR genotype frequencies of the PON1 Q192R polymorphism were 55.4, 38.6 and 6%; and 56.5, 34.8 and 8.7% in subjects with and without MetS, respectively. The L and M allele frequencies were 68 and 53%; and 32 and 47% for PON1 L55M in subjects with and without MetS, respectively. The Q and R allele frequencies for PON1 Q192R were 74 and 26% in both groups. There were significant differences in HDL-cholesterol level and PON1 activity in the genotypes QQ, QR, and RR of the PON1 Q192R polymorphism in subjects with MetS. The PON1 Q192R genotypes had only effected on PON1 activity and HDL-cholesterol level in subjects with MetS. Different genotypes of the PON1 Q192R seem to be important candidates to make the subjects susceptible to MetS in the Fars ethnic group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: In the present era, libraries and information centers, with the pervasiveness of voluntary activities, have taken advantage of the presence of volunteer forces to dynamize and develop service delivery. The present study seeks to analyze the factors and components affecting the voluntary activities of Iranian libraries. Methodology: The present study is a quantitative survey. In this study, the cluster sampling method was used and the data were collected with a questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS and AMOS software. The statistical population included professors of Knowledge and Information Science, cultural trustees, library executives, librarians and experts in Knowledge and Information Science, and library staff in 5 provinces of Bushehr, Khorasan Razavi, Khuzestan, Qazvin and Hamedan. Findings: Findings showed that the correlation between the factors of the ruling context, intervening, strategic, and outcome with the variables of causal factors were 0.419, 0.503, 0.65, 0.448, respectively, which was significant at the level of p<0.05. In other words, the more the benefit of the factors of the ruling, intervening, strategic, consequential context increases, the more the causal factors increase, and the less the ruling context, intervening, strategic, consequential, the less the causal factors decrease. The results also showed that the value of t-statistic observed in the variable of voluntary activities and its factors was positive and significant (p<0.05). The level of Iranian libraries utilization rate from the factors and components affecting voluntary activities is above average. Conclusion: The results showed that librarians and libraries in Iran welcome the implementation of the plan to employ volunteers and there is a significant relationship between the factors and components of volunteer activities in Iranian libraries. In this regard, it is necessary to provide a more effective presence of volunteer forces in the country's libraries to dynamize and develop services by creating laws, reforming policies and attracting the support of governmental and non-governmental institutions. Because volunteers, as great social assets, which are also referred to as national wealth, will play an important and essential role in the expansion of promotion and cultural activities, therefore, it is suggested that a general outline of the process of recruitment, employment and management of volunteers be prepared by the trustees of the libraries and provided to the librarians for further familiarization. This plan can be studied first in the research community (libraries of five provinces) in an experimental way, and after solving possible problems, it can be implemented all over the country. On the other hand, considering the readiness of libraries and librarians to accept volunteers, it is suggested that the plan of calling and recruiting volunteers should be included in the agenda of libraries to lead to the quantitative and qualitative growth and development of libraries and their services . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rosemary is a well-known aromatic and medicinal plant used to treat various ailments. This study evaluated Rosmarinus officinalis essential oil for its phytochemical and antibacterial properties. The essential oil was analysed by using a gas chromatography-mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) that revealed the common chemicals containing verbenone 36.20% and 1,8-cineol (Eucalyptol) 12.14%. Extracted essential oils were tested for antibacterial activity against vancomycin intermediate Staphylococcus aureus (VISA), a strain of bacteria obtained locally from bacteremia patients. Three isolates were found to be VISA positive using the E-test (strips) and the population analysis profile method (PAP). VISA showed lower resistance to the essential oils (MIC: Minimum inhibitory concentration, MIC = 1.5 mg/ml). Overall, the genetic influence of VISA was evaluated by looking at the hld gene expression after being isolated from blood samples and RNA extraction for qRT-PCR to determine hld gene expression. R. officinalis gene expression was analysed and calculated by using real-time PCR of RNA which revealed that it had decreased. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, a new, efficient and stable magnetically heterogeneous nanocatalyst of Fe3O4@CPTMO-phenylalanine-Ni via multi steps process starting from simple and cost-effective precursors was designed and successfully synthesized, and physico-chemical, structural, and magnetic properties have fully been characterized by several analytical methods involving SEM–EDS, FT-IR, TGA, VSM, XRD, ICP, BET, TEM, and EMA. The catalytic performance of the Fe3O4@CPTMO-phenylalanine-Ni can be used as an effective and recyclable nanocatalyst with facile separation by magnetic forces for the preparation of substituted pyrazoles with high yields through the one-pot, three-component condensation reaction of various arylglyoxals, diketones, and 1H-pyrazole-5-amines under mild conditions. The nanocatalyst's activity after being used by four consecutive times in a cycle reaction without distinct deterioration remained unchanged or was found to be a slight decrease. The advantages of this study are simplicity, low cost, facile synthesis process, and environmentally secure nature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanographene oxide (NGO) is one of the most attractive carbon nanomaterials, which due to its high surface-to-mass ratio and epoxy functional groups on the plate, carboxy and hydroxy on the edges, is easily dispersed in water and is one of the most effective materials for the surface adsorbent. Poly diallyl dimethyl ammonium chloride (PDADMAC) nanocomposite with nano-graphene oxide (NGO/PDADMAC) is used to treat pollutions of negatively charged colloidal materials in water. To form nano-composite with diallyl dimethyl ammonium chloride monomer in the form of live radical polymerization, are used two intermediates of 2-bromopropyl bromide (BPB) and potassium ethyl xanthate (EX). In this study, nano-graphene oxide is exposed to 2-bromopropionyl bromide (NGO/BPB), is investigated the possibility of interacting with three functional groups (carboxy, hydroxy, and proxy) of the graphene oxide nano-sphere. Potassium ethyl xanthate (EX) and Poly diallyl dimethyl ammonium chloride are then added to their nano-complex (NGO/BPB). Thermodynamic and structural parameters based on B3LYP/6-31 + G** show that the structure of the complex created in the carboxy and hydroxy positions has better structural properties than the epoxy group, with comparing of the groups in the IR spectra of experimental and computational, is more the probability of overlap the hydroxy agent. The thermodynamic, structural, and computational parameters indicate the possibility of forming a composite with the hydroxy agent group to be used as filler. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Cytokine storm and critical COVID-19 pneumonia are caused in at least 10% of patients by inborn errors of or auto-Abs to type I IFNs. The pathogenesis of life-threatening COVID-19 pneumonia in other patients remains unknown. Methods: This study was conducted at Masih Daneshvari Hospital, Tehran, Iran. In the period of study, 75 confirmed cases of COVID-19 with presentations ranging from mild upper respiratory tract infection to lower respiratory tract infection, including moderate, severe, and critical disease, were recruited. Expression of STING mRNA was measured in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and compared between patients with different severity and outcome. Results: There was a significant negative correlation between age and STING expression level (p value = 0.010). Patients with "severe to critical" illness had a 20-fold lower STING expression level compared to the "mild to moderate" group (p value = 0.001). Also, the results showed lower expressions of STING in the patients admitted to the ICU (p value = 0.015). Patients who finally died had lower expression of STING at the time of sampling (p value = 0.041). Conclusion: STING mRNA expression in PBMCs was significantly lower in older COVID-19 cases, the patients with more severe illness, who needed intensive care, and who eventually died. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To perceive the relationship between the emergences of antibiotics persistence, biofilm formation, and to study the role of silver nitrate in fighting these microbes, a total 50 clinical Klebsiella pneumonae isolates were collected from clinical sources and identified using genotypic identification by using specific primer (rpoB gene) from housekeeping genes. Detection of their biofilm-forming abilities were carried out. The eradication effect of silver nitrate to control bacterial persistence and reducing the biofilm-forming abilities were studied. We found that 40 isolate (80%) were biofilm-formers. From bacterial persisters, (75%) were biofilm-formers. Silver nitrate showed a great role to eradicate persister cells and inhibition of bacterial biofilm formation of clinical isolates of K. pneumoniae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, the Fe3O4@Glycerol-Cu complex supported magnetically as a nanoparticle was prepared by grafting. Firstly, Fe3O4 NPs were synthesized by FeCl3.6H2O and FeCl2.4H2O according to the reported method, and subsequently, the prepared MNP with 3-chloropropyltrimethoxysilane. After that, the support-glycerol was functionalized on the surface of MNP-(CH2)3Cl for graft and stabilization of copper metal. Our purpose is to use the Fe3O4@Glycerol-Cu as a green, recoverable, novel, and affordable nanocatalyst in the effective synthesis of 2-amino-4H-chromenes. FT-IR, XRD, TGA, BET, VSM, TEM, and SEM–EDX techniques were examined to characterize this nanocatalyst. This result demonstrates that copper and organic compounds have appropriately reacted, with the support of MNP-(CH2)3Cl, and the crystalline structure have preserved in the MNP-(CH2)3Cl/Glycerol-Cu nanocatalyst confirmed the formation of the base Cu complex grafted on the surface of the nanoparticles. Finally, as can be seen, the nanoparticle size is 5–15 nm. This heterogeneous nanocatalyst illustrated excellent recyclable behavior, and can be used several times without notable reduction of its activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The interconnections of power systems are extended to improve operating conditions and increase their adequacy and security. Furthermore, with the increasing penetration of renewable energy sources such as wind turbines (WTs), probabilistic assessment of these systems' performance is very important, especially in risk management, bidding strategies, and operational decisions. Interline power flow controller (IPFC) is one of the flexible AC transmission system (FACTS) devices, which can increase power transfer capability and maximize the use of the existing transmission network. In the structure of the IPFC, there are two converters whose settings should be determined optimally to get the maximum benefit from it. This paper introduces a probabilistic multi‐objective optimization method for the allocation of the IPFC to reduce the active power losses and improve the power flow index (PFI) of the lines with considering the IPFC cost using the multi‐objective particle swarm optimization (MOPSO) algorithm. The uncertainties are taken to account in loads and wind speed of WTs. Also, the k‐means‐based data clustering method (DCM) is used for the probabilistic assessment of this problem for the first time, and its performance is compared with the Monte Carlo simulation (MCS) method. The efficiency of the proposed approach is investigated on the IEEE 30‐bus test system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Harmonics originating from non‐linear loads in distribution systems will cause undesired effects and malfunctions of equipment. It is important to use efficient techniques for eliminating the voltage and current harmonic components. However, the uncertain nature of the active distribution networks (ADN) makes it difficult to apply these techniques, efficiently. Renewable energy sources (RESs), such as wind turbines (WTs) besides load fluctuations are the most important uncertainty sources. This study employs energy storage systems (ESS) to reduce total harmonic distortion (THD) as well as the ADN operating costs. In addition to the ESS, network structure reconfiguration and reactive power scheduling is presented for a more efficient operation of ADN. Also, the uncertainty of the network is modelled by the K‐means and LHS methods. This methodology is conducted under a multi‐objective optimization problem, which is handled by a multi‐objective particle swarm optimization (MOPSO) algorithm. Furthermore, a technique for order of preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS) approach is applied to obtain the best compromise between two objectives. The efficacy of the proposed methodology is investigated in the IEEE 33 bus test system. Also, for validating the results, a large‐scale network, the IEEE 118 bus test system is surveyed, too. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A prospective, randomized, blinded experiment was conducted to compare the effects of intranasal (IN) dexmedetomidine (Dex, 10 µg/kg; n =12) alone or combined with midazolam (DexM, 0.3 mg/kg; n =12) or ketamine (DexK, 2 mg/kg; n =12) in healthy dogs. Ease of administration (EA1), total administration time (TAT), time for first (TA1) and second nostril administration (TA2), and adverse events during atomization were recorded. Two days later, EA2 was assessed by IN atomization of injectable water as an additional outcome variable. Onset of sedation was evaluated, along with behavioral scores and physiological parameters from T0 (baseline) to T120. Statistical analyses included Chi-square, one-way ANOVA or Kruskal-Wallis, repeated measures or Friedman's ANOVA, and Wilcoxon's tests. Significance was p ≤0.05. Onset of sedation was 12.9 ± 4.1, 18.2 ± 7.5, and 9.9 ± 4.3 mins (mean ± SD) for Dex, DexM, and DexK, respectively. Onset was shorter in DexK compared to DexM (p =0.002), explaining the lower behavioral scores in DexM at T15. All dogs in Dex and DexK reached adequate sedation, with peak sedation occurring at T30, while some dogs in DexM never reached adequate sedation and this group peaked at T45. Adverse events such as saliva drooling and pawing at the nose were significantly higher in DexM and DexK, explaining their differences in TA2, TAT, and EA1 comparing to Dex. EA2 was also higher in Dex compared to DexM and DexK. In conclusion, Dex was better tolerated in dogs and DexK showed faster and more profound sedative effects. Due to paradoxical excitement, unpredictable sedation, and nasal irritation, DexM is not recommended. • Intranasal (IN) dexmedetomidine (Dex) induced adequate sedation in healthy dogs. • More adverse reactions to IN atomization present with Dex-Ketamine or Dex-Midazolam. • IN Dex-Miazolam induced unreliable sedation and paradoxical excitement. • Dogs showed increased resistance to second time IN administration. • Administration in one nostril might be less-stressful to dogs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Different categories of extracellular vesicles (EVs) are identified based on their origin and formation processes. Among these, exosomes (EXOs) originate from endosomal compartments merging with the plasma membrane, forming small lipid vesicles that transport a range of molecular cargo such as nucleic acids, proteins, and lipids. The composition of EXOs varies depending on their cellular source, encompassing various cell types, including neutrophils, dendritic cells, and even tumor cells. Remarkably, EXOs possess inherent stability, low immunogenicity, and compatibility, making them efficient nano vectors for drug delivery. Imaging techniques like bioluminescence, fluorescence, and nuclear imaging are crucial in non-invasively tracking EXOs within living organisms. This process requires the attachment of radionuclides to the EXO's structure without altering its essential characteristics. Real-time imaging of EXOs is vital for their clinical application, and recent advancements in labeling and tracking methodologies provide insights into biodistribution, functionality, and potential pathways for EXO-mediated drug delivery. This review presents updated progress in the diverse applications of EXOs in targeted imaging across various modalities, where they function as contrast agents facilitating tissue visualization and disease tracking. Consequently, EXOs emerge as promising entities in medical diagnostics and imaging. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Development of innovative PSU/ZIF-8 membranes using different sizes of ZIF-8 as additives. • Optimizing the particle size of ZIF-8 for maximizing membrane efficiency in water decontamination. • Employing FTIR, XRD, TGA, FE-SEM, EDAX, AFM, and CA for membranes characterization. • Investigating the impact of ZIF-8 Size on membrane performance in desalination, heavy metal removal, and antifouling. Due to nanotechnology's emergence and the development of nanocomposite membranes, membrane technologies have gained significant attention in recent years. This research aims to develop a nanocomposite membrane containing ZIF-8 based on polysulfone (PSU) to remove pollutants present in wastewater. This study used a phase inversion method to prepare the desired membrane, and ZIF-8 with different sizes of 14, 23, 65, 144, and 262 nm were added to the PSU. The successful preparation of these nanocomposites was confirmed using techniques such as Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The morphology of the prepared nanocomposites was examined using field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDAX), atomic force microscopy (AFM), and contact angle (CA). According to the results from performance evaluation tests, the membrane containing ZIF-8 with a size of 14 nm had the best performance. It could remove sodium and magnesium cations from water at a pressure of 7 bar with an efficiency of 57.35 % and 59.50 %, respectively. The investigations related to the removal of heavy metals also demonstrated that this membrane could remove lead by 96.25 % at a pressure of 7 bar. The removal efficiency of the membranes containing ZIF-8 in the size of 14 nm for copper, nickel, and chromium is 90.56 %, 78.81 %, and 67.10 %, respectively. Therefore, it can be claimed that the membranes, including lower sizes of ZIF-8 exhibit high efficiency in practical cases of heavy metal removal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The wheel squeal noise of a train is often made when it passes a tight curve. The noise annoys the passengers and the people living close to railway tracks. According to the research background, wheel vibration, as a result of unstable contact force, is the main source of wheel squeal noise. This study presents a novel method to reduce wheel squeal noise based on the active vibration control of wheels and the use of piezoelectric actuators attached to wheel treads. The proposed method is implemented in an experimentally validated time model involving the linear dynamics of wheel and track and nonlinear contact forces. Then, the model is modified to enhance the effect of the piezoelectric actuators. The relationship between the momentum and the voltage applied to the piezoelectric patch is also considered in modeling. To determine the amplitude and the direction of the applied voltage, a feedback controller is designed based on the fuzzy self-tuning PID controller scheme. This controller is similar to the conventional PID controller, but its coefficients are tuned by the fuzzy tuning mechanism according to the wheel response. The results show that the proposed method is capable of suppressing wheel squeal noise, especially in high frequencies. Furthermore, it is as applicable to worn wheels as to new ones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Although many aspects of the COVID-19 disease have not yet been clarified, dysregulation of the immune system may play a crucial role in the progression of the disease. In this study, the lymphocyte subsets were evaluated in patients with different severities of COVID-19. Materials and Methods: In this prospective study, the frequencies of peripheral lymphocyte subsets (CD3+, CD4+, and CD8+ T cells; CD19+ and CD20+ B cells; CD16+/CD56+ NK cells, and CD4+/CD25+/FOXP3+ regulatory T cells) were evaluated in 67 patients with confirmed COVID-19 on the first day of their admission. Results: The mean age of patients was 51.3 ± 14.8 years. Thirty-two patients (47.8%) were classified as severe cases, and 11 (16.4%) were categorized as critical. The frequencies of blood lymphocytes, CD3+ cells, CD25+FOXP3+ T cells, and absolute count of CD3+ T cells, CD25+FOXP3+ T cells, CD4+ T cells, CD8+ T cells, and CD16+56+ lymphocytes were lower in more severe cases compared to the milder patients. The percentages of lymphocytes, T cells, and NK cells were significantly lower in the deceased patients. (p= 0.002 and p= 0.042, p=0.006, respectively). Conclusion: Findings of this cohort study demonstrated that the frequencies of CD4+, CD8+, CD25+FOXP3+ T cells, and NK cells differed in the severe cases of COVID-19. Moreover, lower frequency of T cells and NK cells could be predictors of mortality in these patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

N-Methylpyrrolidine catalyzed, concise and attractive synthesis of a new class of 3-hydroxy-3,5/6-di-aryl-1H-imidazo[1,2-a]imidazol-2(3H)-ones was attained with impressive yields, in the presence of EtOH as a solvent, by means of a convenient and elegant condensation reaction between different aryl glyoxal monohydrates and guanidine hydrochloride under reflux conditions. Some specific merits of the current procedure, including encompasses low operating cost, availability of the starting substrates, reasonable reaction times, high reaction yield, operational simplicity, cleaner reaction profile, no harmful by-products, and the isolated product is in pure form. Structures of all the freshly synthesized products have been deduced by their FT-IR, 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR, Mass spectrometry data and microanalysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biopolymer-based electrospun mats, mimicking the extracellular matrix, have been extensively explored in biomedical applications. This study compares Achillea millefolium (AM) and Viola (V) extracts for developing a biocompatible wound dressing. The extracts were incorporated into a Chitosan/polyvinyl alcohol (CS/PVA) matrix via electrospinning. Crosslinking with Carbonyldiimidazole (CDI) improved chemical stability, water resistance, and biodegradability. The resulting mats exhibited flawless interconnected nanofibers, confirming the presence of AM and Viola extracts as analyzed via FTIR. Significant differences were observed between these two herbal extracts, particularly in mechanical properties, with tensile strengths of 6.9 MPa for AM and 17.2 MPa for Viola. Viola extract demonstrated robust antibacterial properties, producing an 8.2 mm inhibition zone against Staphylococcus aureus , compared to AM's 30 %. The release of therapeutic agents indicated an initial rapid phase, followed by a controlled 72 h release at a consistent rate. Notably, Viola extract led to 80.9 % wound closure on the 10th day, surpassing AM extract at 63.7 %. In contrast, the control group achieved only 32.1 % closure. This comparative study underscores the distinct advantages of AM and Viola extracts in wound dressing applications. While AM presents specific strengths, Viola extract exhibits superior mechanical properties, antibacterial efficacy, and accelerated wound closure, suggesting its potential with significant clinical implications. [Display omitted] • Achillea millefolium (AM) and Viola (V) extracts were obtained. • CS/PVA/AM (CPAM) and CS/PVA/V (CPV) mats were fabricated by electrospinning. • Morphology and in-vitro behavior were studied after Carbonyldiimidazole crosslinking. • The mat's antibacterial activity was significantly improved by adding the Viola extract. • The optimized dressings showed favorable biocompatibility and wound regeneration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent decades, 4-nitrophenol has become one of the most dangerous substances due to its harmful effects on the environment and the human body. Therefore, the reduction of 4-nitrophenol is necessary to reduce health and environmental impacts. This research presented a novel method for preparing CoMn a O b (a= 2, and b= 4)/MWCNT nanocatalyst to reduce 4-nitrophenol in the presence of NaBH 4. However, the high electronic conductivity of MWCNT and the active sites of cobalt and manganese in the nanocatalyst surface exhibited a critical role in nanocatalyst activation for the reduction of 4-nitrophenol in the presence of NaBH 4. The prepared nanocatalyst has advantages, including easy fabrication, excellent performance, recyclability, and cost-effectiveness, distinguishing it from other nanocatalysts. The fabricated nanocatalyst showed the highest reduction rate of 4-nitrophenol (97.8%) within 10 min. The results displayed that the 4-nitrophenol reduction in the presence of CoMn a O b /MWCNT was better than alone- CoMn a O b , corroborating the synergistic impact of MWCNT with metal oxides. Meanwhile, the nanocatalyst was recycled during five runs to reduce 4-nitrophenol without decreasing catalyst activity. The present research can be an excellent example of the design of nanocatalysts based on metal oxides with carbon materials to reduce 4-nitrophenol to 4-aminophenol. [Display omitted] • A new methodology was described to prepare CoMn a O b (a=2, and b=4)/MWCNT nanocatalyst. • CoMn a O b (a=2, and b=4)/MWCNT indicated excellent performance to reduction 4-nitrophenol. • The CoMn a O b (a=2, and b=4)/MWCNT nanocatalyst was easily recycled. • The possible mechanism for the reduction of 4-nitrophenol was proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Contrails can persist in cloud‐free supersaturated air, increasing high‐cloud cover, and inside natural cirrus cloud, modifying the microphysical properties of them. The latter effect is almost unknown, partly because of the lack of height‐resolved measurements and the capability of measurements to penetrate inside the cloud. New retrievals of the ice crystal number concentration from combined satellite cloud radar and lidar measurements (CloudSat/CALIPSO; DARDAR‐Nice algorithm) now allow for satellite‐based assessment inside the clouds. We investigate this issue at intersections between the aircraft flight tracks and these retrieval profiles. Regions behind the aircraft inside the flight track were compared to the adjacent regions and to ahead of the aircraft, along the satellites' profiles, where DARDAR‐Nice identify geometrically thin cirrus clouds. This comparison revealed a statistically significant increase of 25% and 54% in the concentration of ice crystals with the minimum size of 5 μm around 300–540‐m beneath an aircraft's flight altitude. Plain Language Summary: Aircraft emissions are the only human‐made source of pollution that is directly injected into the upper troposphere. Aircraft can form trails of ice crystals in a cloud‐free atmosphere and therefore change the high‐cloud cover. If they form inside the already existing cirrus clouds, they will modify the cloud microphysical properties, an effect that is not well quantified so far. In this study, we use a new retrieval of ice crystal number concentration from satellite lidar and radar, which provides height resolved information. We analyze intersections between the aircraft flight tracks and the swath of the satellite by comparing the ice crystal concentration in the regions affected by aviation with the neighboring regions and those ahead of the aircraft. The result of this work reveals a statistically significant increase in ice crystal concentration within clouds a few hundred meters beneath the flight height. Key Points: New satellite retrievals of ice crystal number concentration allow to assess microphysical effects of aviation on existing cirrus cloudsComparison of ICNC profiles on existing cirrus clouds shows increase after aircraft by 25% and 54% ICNCThe signal is the largest 300–540 m below the flight altitude [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Renewable energies have a significant portion in supplying energy demands in modern distribution networks. Due to the wide use of power electronic devices, these networks may have power quality problems. The unpredictable nature of renewable energies, besides the effect of non‐linear loads brings out serious planning and operating challenges for distribution systems. Basicly, harmonic distortion is a severe problem for both electric efficiency and power energy customers. This study proposes an optimal scheduling strategy for wind turbine's integrated distribution networks with non‐linear loads using a multi‐objective individualized instruction mechanism teaching‐learning‐based optimization algorithm and the best solution is selected via the TOPSIS technique. In the proposed strategy, energy storage systems are optimally scheduled besides wind turbines, and reactive power compensators. Also, to use the distribution network more efficiently, an optimal network reconfiguration is applied. The wind turbine's output and load demands have probabilistic nature. The proposed scheme reduces the total harmonic distortion as well as total costs. The efficacy of the proposed management scheme is investigated using the IEEE standard 33 bus distribution network. Also, the performance of the multi‐objective individualized instruction mechanism teaching‐learning‐based optimization algorithm is compared with the multi‐objective particle swarm optimization algorithm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Manipulation of materials is considered as one of the eminent strategies to create desirable catalysts. In this regard, increasing surface area and decreasing dimensions of catalysts have been widely employed on account of effectiveness of these methods. Herein, aerogel form of chitosan as a sustainable, and high aspect ratio compound is employed as a green support for the catalytic purposes. Chitosan aerogel was modified with Fe(II)-phthalocyanine to produce a heterogeneous catalyst for oxidation reactions. The synthesized catalyst promoted the oxidation reactions of alcohols and alkyl arenes to the corresponding aldehydes and ketones using H2O2 as an oxidant in 24 h. The reactions for aliphatic and aromatic alcohols gave turnover numbers of 106–109 at 80 °C and 106–117 at room temperature, respectively. The oxidations of alkyl arenes were carried out with turnover numbers laying in the range of 106–117 at 100 °C. The low toxicity, inexpensive nature, and recycling possibility of the catalyst accompanied by the reaction mild conditions, clean oxidant, and excellent yields offer chitosan aerogel modified with Fe(II)-phthalocyanine as a promising catalyst for oxidation reactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Flexible alternating‐current transmission system (FACTS) devices as power electronic‐based technologies have been developed to improve the performance of power systems. This paper proposes a probabilistic framework for optimal allocation of unified power flow controller (UPFC) as one of the most beneficial FACTS devices to increase the reliability of the power system. For this purpose, the expected power not served (EPNS) is considered as a reliability index that is obtained based on the summation of required load shedding in all buses during single contingencies, including transmission lines and generators outage. Power demands and wind speed are considered as uncertain input variables. In addition, the correlations among these variables are included in the proposed study method. The well‐known particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm is used to optimize the proposed objective function. Also, the firefly algorithm (FA) is implemented to determine the total amount of load shedding for the calculation of EPNS, considering each possible generated solution by the PSO. The k‐means based data clustering method (DCM) is used for probabilistic evaluation of the problem, for the first time. Also, the correlations among uncertain input variables are modeled with the Cholesky decomposition method. Extraction of statistical information of UPFC parameters for improving power system reliability in a probabilistic framework is one of the most important achievements of the proposed method. This information is very important in deciding on the UPFC sizing. In order to evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed method, the IEEE 14‐bus and 30‐bus test systems have been used. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) has various transmission routes. Instant antiretroviral therapy (ART) is the recommended treatment for HIV infection. Highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) significantly decreases the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) and AIDS-related co-morbidities. Notwithstanding the suitability of HAART, the antiretrovirals (ARVs) have adverse effects and antiretroviral drug resistance mutations are reported among those who receive ARVs. In this survey, the abundance of HIV-1 infection in Iranians with high-risk behaviors, and detection of the surveillance drug-resistant mutations (SDRMs) were evaluated. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 250 individuals with high-risk behaviors from September 2014 to February 2020. HIV-1 Ag/Ab in plasma samples was detected using enzyme immunoassay (EIA) kits. The conserved region of HIV-1 was detected in the plasma samples by real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay. Furthermore, in individuals with positive HIV-1 RNA, HIV-1 viral load testing was performed. After amplification and sequencing of the HIV-1 protease, reverse transcriptase, and integrase genes, surveillance drug resistance mutation (SDRM) and phylogenetic analysis were determined. Results: Out of the 250 participants with high-risk behaviors, six (2.4%) were infected with HIV-1. According to the phylogenetic analysis, the CRF35_AD (83.3% or 5/6) was the dominant subtype, followed by CRF01_AE (16.7% or 1/6). In this research, in none of the HIV-1 infected patients, SDRM for protease inhibitors (PIs), nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs), non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs), and integrase inhibitors (INs) were observed. Nevertheless, in one of the patients, V179L mutation was detected which is a rare non-polymorphic mutation and is listed as a rilpivirine (RPV) -associated resistance mutation. Conclusion: The results of the current survey revealed that 2.4% of people with high-risk behaviors are infected with HIV and the level of drug resistance mutations (DRMs) in these people is very low. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We describe the case of a 42 year old, healthy patient with Covid-19 who despite improvement in his respiratory symptoms developed a mild to moderate cytokine release syndrome (CRS) and an associated monoarticular gout flare. Since the patient refused admission to the hospital and had stable vital signs, we chose to treat him with a safe anti-inflammatory and non-immunosuppressive therapy. To hit two birds with one stone, we considered colchicine, as it has systemic anti-inflammatory effects and is also effective in gout flare. Unexpectedly, 48 hours after treatment, not only did his ongoing fever and toe pain disappear, he also had significant improvements in his general state of health and all his inflammatory markers including fibrinogen, ferritin, D-dimer, and IL-6 levels normalized. To our knowledge, the use of colchicine in Covid-19 and CRS has not been reported. This observation merits the consideration of colchicine as a safe, inexpensive and oral medication for the treatment of mild to moderate CRS in Covid-19 patients. More importantly, in Covid-19 patients with early lung involvement colchicine may be an appropriate candidate to prevent CRS in adjunction with routine antiviral agents. Indeed, multicenter, randomized controlled studies are required to evaluate the benefits of this therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]