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Testicular cancer is the most common form of cancer in young men of reproductive age and its incidence is increasing globally. With the currently successful treatment and 95% survival rate, there is a need for deeper understanding of testicular cancer‐related infertility. Most patients with testicular cancer experience semen abnormalities prior to cancer therapy. However, the exact mechanism of the effect of testicular cancer on sperm anomalies is not known. Mitochondria are organelles that play a crucial role in both tumorigenesis and spermatogenesis and their malfunction may be an important factor resulting in sperm abnormalities in testicular cancer patients. Within the scope of this review, we will discuss current knowledge of testicular cancer‐related alterations in the ATP production pathway, a possible pathophysiological switch from oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) to glycolysis, as well as the role of oxidative stress promoting sperm dysfunction. In this regard, the review provides a summary of the impact of testicular cancer on sperm quality as a possible consequence of impaired mitochondrial function including the energy metabolic pathways that are known to be altered in the sperm of testicular cancer patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this note, we investigate the Minkowski's and Young type determinantal inequalities for accretive-dissipative matrices S = A + iB satisfying 0 < B < A. Our results improve some recent ones in the literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of electrical stimulation devices to manage bladder incontinence relies on the application of continuous inhibitory stimulation. However, continuous stimulation can result in tissue fatigue and increased delivered charge. Here, we employ a real-time algorithm to provide a short-time prediction of urine leakage using the high-resolution power spectrum of the bladder pressure during the presence of non-voiding contractions (NVC) in normal and overactive bladder (OAB) cats. The proposed method is threshold-free and does not require pre-training. The analysis revealed that there is a significant difference between voiding contraction (VC) and NVC pressures as well as band powers (0.5–5 Hz) during both normal and OAB conditions. Also, most of the first leakage points occurred after the maximum VC pressure, while all of them were observed subsequent to the maximum VC spectral power. Kalman-Fuzzy method predicted urine leakage on average 2.2 s and 1.6 s before its occurrence and an average of 2.0 s and 1.1 s after the contraction started with success rates of 94.2% and 100% in normal and OAB cats, respectively. This work presents a promising approach for developing a neuroprosthesis device, with on-demand stimulation to control bladder incontinence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The presence of intersexuality in goat breeds is one of the most popular, and challenging issues. Therefore, understanding the genetic complexity of this phenomenon at the DNA level may help to discover the molecular mechanisms of sexual differentiation in this species. A solution to this problem is proposed in the development of a DNA test using sex-determination candidate genes. With this motivation, the main goal of the present report was to identify the pseudohermaphrodite polled goats based on ZFX and SRY sexdetermination candidate gene findings. Overall, data were collected from 11 individuals (4 females, 4 males, and 3 anatomically female goats (intersex) were chosen for PCR analysis using ZFX and SRY specific primers sequence. For this reason, genomic DNA extraction and PCR amplification were done according to routinely available laboratory protocol. Two ZFX and SRY-specific primer sets were applied for PCR amplification. Interestingly, our results were re-confirmed, and PCR products were amplified by ZFX primer yielding a band of 445 bp in both female and intersex goats. Furthermore, SRY expressed 169 bp in both male and intersex goats. In summary, these results suggest that SRY candidate gene may provide insight into the factors affecting the intersexuality issue in goat breeds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Equine semen cryopreservation is one of the major procedures for the genetic conservation of rare and endangered genotypes. The current study was conducted to evaluate the effect of egg yolk plasma (EYP) enriched with β‐carotene as an antioxidant supplement on INRA‐96 extender regarding freezing Arabic stallion sperm. For this purpose, β‐carotene various concentrations were utilized as a supplementary ingredient in formulating the diets of laying hens. Birds were randomly divided into four groups, fed with 0 (control), 500, 1000 and 2000 mg/kg in a supplemented diet with β‐carotene. Subsequently, various variants of enriched extender (INRA‐96 + 2.5% glycerol [G]) were gained by adding 2% EYP from four treatment groups. The sperm characteristics, including motility, viability, morphology, plasma membrane integrity (HOS test), lipid peroxidation (MDA) and DNA fragmentation, were evaluated after thawing. According to the results obtained in this study, the addition of EYP from T2 and T4 (500 and 2000 mg/kg of β‐carotene in hens' diet) to the extender (INRA‐96 + 2.5% G) leads to an increase in total motility (50.50% and 49.49%, respectively), progressive motility (32.6% and 31.8%, respectively), viability (68.7% and 66.1%, respectively) and plasma membrane integrity (57.7% and 50.6%, respectively). Moreover, lipid peroxidation (1.3 and 1.4 nmol/mL, respectively) and DNA fragmentation (8.6% and 9.9%, respectively) were diminished using the mentioned treatments. However, sperm morphology was not affected by the treatments. In the current study, we concluded that the optimal concentration of β‐carotene in the laying hen's diet (500 mg/kg) could reveal the best results about sperm quality. So, EYP enriched with β‐carotene acts as a valuable natural and safe supplementary material that could be exploited for enhancing stallion sperm quality in cryopreservation conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Investigating the interaction of genotype and environment in multi‐environment experiments (MET) is one of the reliable techniques to demonstrate the most stable and compatible cultivars. The main contribution of this study is to evaluate the stability and compatibility of rapeseed cultivars using additive main effects and multiplicative interaction (AMMI) and genotype plus genotype environment interaction (GGE) bi‐plot methods for grain yield and oil content. For this purpose, an experiment in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications was conducted for 10 rapeseed cultivars across 10 environments (five regions in 2 years). Hence, the proposed technique can be used to identify the superior cultivars corresponding to the multivariant properties including yield and oil content. To do so, a case‐study analysis was conducted over rapeseed, while more than 96% of the data variance for grain yield and more than 94% of the data variance for oil content were explained based on the AMMI model. According to the AMMI model, it was observed that the "Zarfam" and "Licord" genotypes were introduced as favorable genotypes for grain yield and oil content, respectively. "Karaj1" and "Sanandaj1" were selected as the superior environments for yield trait, "Kashmar2" for oil content, and "Licord" and "Kashmar2" were identified as the superior genotypes and environment for oil content, respectively. Graphical GGE bi‐plot illustrated that "Hyola401," "Okapi," and "Sarigol" for grain yield and "Option500" and "Sunday" for oil content were identified as stable and high‐yield genotypes. "Sanandaj1" for grain yield and "Karaj2" for oil content were identified as environments with high differentiation and screening power. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fluoride (F–) is one of the common water pollutants, which causes severe diseases if be present over 1.5 mg/L suggested by WHO for drinking water. There is essential to find a simple and cost-effective method for excess F– removal from contaminated water. In this study, municipal solid waste compost ash (MSWCA) was used to remove F– from aqueous solution. The effect of operational variables such as adsorbent calcination temperature (550–900°C), adsorbent dose (0.25–1.5 g/L), pH (2–12), occurrence of competing anions (HCO3−, CO32−, Cl−, NO3− and SO42−), adsorption temperature (20–50°C) and mixing time (15–120 min) were investigated. F–adsorption was highest when compost ash calcinated at 550°C. F– removal increased from 42.6 to 87.7% by increasing adsorbent dose from 0.25 to 1.5 g/L. The removal also increased 4.4% when the temperature of solutions increased from 20 to 50°C, an indicative of endothermic process. Furthermore, adsorption increased by increasing pH from 4 to 10 and then decreased with pH up to 12. F− removal reduced about 10% in the presence of SO42−. Based on pseudo- second-order kinetic model, it was found that the process was controlled by chemisorption. The equilibrium data were well fitted with Langmuir model, which implied the F−ions doesn't interact and adsorbed in monolayer onto MSWA. The Langmuir maximum adsorption capacity was 30.56 mg F/g MSWCA. Due to excellent adsorptive properties, MSWCA presents as a promising material for F− adsorption from wastewaters or landfill leachates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High concentrations of fluoride and nitrate in drinking water cause significant impacts on human health. The aim of this research was to estimate the risk to human health induced by fluoride and nitrate due to the intake of the groundwater through drinking water in Sabzevar city, Iran. Eighteen groundwater samples were collected from nine wells in the region during 2018 to determine the fluoride and nitrate concentrations. The non-cancer risk, reflected by the hazard quotient (HQ) and the hazard index (HI), was assessed for adults, children and infants. The water samples had overall mean fluoride and nitrate levels in the range of 0.197–1.32 mg/L and 8.8–47.2 mg/L, respectively. All the wells had fluoride levels below the WHO guideline of 1.5 mg/L. For nitrate, all the wells were within the standard. Among the nine groundwater samples, the total HI values at 22%, 55% and 55% of wells exceeded safe levels of 1 for adults, children and infants, which indicates that the local groundwater is detrimental to these age groups in the mentioned locations. The results of this research could help to develop proper strategies for comprehensive water resource management, particularly by providing scientific documents for decision and management of groundwater sources applied for drinking water supply. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Cf-mtDNA in follicular fluid of PCOS patients was significantly lower than non-PCOS women. • We found that cf-mtDNA in follicular fluid of women with different reproductive status has not an equal efficiency regarding biomarker of ART outcome. • Cf-mtDNA is not an appropriate biomarker for ART outcome in PCOS patients. • Our data suggests that elevation of cf-mtDNA in follicular fluid might result from impairment of mtDNA packaging by TFAM , and the consequence of this event will be triggered by induction of inflammatory cytokines. Lack of reliable biomarkers for estimating the outcome is one of the current gaps in ART. In this study, we assessed whether cell-free mitochondrial DNA within the follicular fluid (FF cf-mtDNA) of PCOS patients has biomarker applicability or not. Furthermore, probable involved mechanisms in the FF cf-mtDNA pathway were evaluated. The level of FF cf-mtDNA was compared between 50 PCOS patients and 50 women without any certain reproductive disorder, and analyzed for correlations with ART outcome. The associations between levels of FF cf-mtDNA and TFAM , POLG , and RNase H1 genes expression in mural granulosa cells (MGCs), as well as IL-6, and TNFα in follicular fluid (FF) were assessed. We identified that FF cf-mtDNA level was significantly lower in PCOS women and was accompanied by a reduction in the expression of mtDNA biogenesis genes in MGCs of the patients. Although a significant association between FF cf-mtDNA level and ART outcome was observed in the control group, no correlation could be proved in the PCOS group. Moreover, the expression level of TFAM was negatively associated, while amounts of IL-6 and TNFα were positively correlated with FF cf-mtDNA level in both groups. PCOS patients present a lower FF cf-mtDNA level in comparison with non-PCOS women. FF cf-mtDNA has biomarker applicability for ART outcome in women without any certain reproductive disorder, but not for those with PCOS. It seems that mtDNA packaging dysfunction results in elevated FF cf-mtDNA, and subsequent effects are triggered by increasing the inflammatory cytokines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cell-free DNAs (cfDNAs) are fragmented forms of DNA that are released into extracellular environments. Analyzing them, regarding either concentration or genetic/epigenetic status can provide helpful information about disorders, response to treatments, estimation of success rates, etc. Moreover, since they are presented in body fluids, evaluation of the aforementioned items would be achieved by less/non-invasive methods. In human reproduction field, it is required to have biomarkers for prediction of assisted reproduction techniques (ART) outcome, as well as some non-invasive procedures for genetic/epigenetic assessments. cfDNA is an appropriate candidate for providing the both approaches in ART. Recently, scientists attempted to investigate its application in distinct fields of reproductive medicine that resulted in discovering its applicability for biomarker and genetic/epigenetic analyses. However, due to some limitations, it has not reached to clinical administration yet. In this article, we have reviewed the current reported data with respect to advantages and limitations of cfDNA utilization in three fields of ART, reproduction of male and female, as well as in vitro developed embryos. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small, about 22 nucleotides, non-coding RNAs which regulate a wide range of gene expression during post-transcriptional stage. They are released into intra- and extracellular microenvironments and play vital roles in different physiological and pathological pathways. Due to easy accessibility, detection of extracellular miRNAs in body fluids, e.g. serum, plasma, cerebrospinal fluid, and follicular fluid, has been explored in recent years. Since miRNAs are stable at unsuitable conditions, scientists have been investigating to use them as biomarkers in different fields of medicines. It goes without saying that experienced biomarkers would be required in reproductive medicine as well. Biomarkers can help clinicians and embryologists to diagnose disorders and assess the embryo quality via molecular pattern which is more reliable than nowadays routine methods. Follicular fluid as a noninvasive fluid in assisted reproductive techniques (ART) has attracted researchers as a rich pool for biomarkers, and miRNAs are not exception. Although miRNA biomarkers in reproduction field are located on their initial stage and there is a long path to move forward, several meticulous studies have been performed and discovered their associations with various conditions. In this regard, we summarize the reported miRNAs in follicular fluid and their correlations with female infertility and ART success rate, while subsequent investigations are required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Effective biosensor devices for detection of glucose based on carbohydrate polymer nanohydrogels have been scarcely reported to date. In an attempt to construct a more functional device for detection of blood glucose, CdTe quantum dots (QDs) and glucose oxidase (GOx) were immobilized within the well functionalized superabsorbent nanohydrogel prepared from the nanoparticles (<50 nm) of gum tragacanth (GT) polysaccharide. The biosensor was able to perform enzyme-catalyzed oxidation of glucose to produce H 2 O 2 , a product that subsequently quenched the fluorescence emission. The quenching rate depends on the glucose concentration, the detection limit was 0.5 mM, and the Michaelis–Menten constant (K M) was an excellent value of 2.2 mM. The prepared biosensor was used for the enzymatic detection of blood glucose concentration in the real serum samples which exhibited satisfactory reproducibility and accuracy. Therefore, the high immobilization for QDs and GOx in this superabsorbent nanohydrogel matrix can be a suitable diagnostic device for biomedical applications. Unlabelled Image • Superabsorbent biosensor hydrogel was prepared from gum tragacanth nanoparticles. • CdTe QDs and glucose oxidase enzyme were physically stabilized within the hydrogel. • The biosensor has well detected glucose via enzymatic quenching of QDs fluorescence. • Quenching rate depends on glucose concentration with 2.2 mM (K M) detection limit. • The biosensor was satisfactory accurate and reproducible with real blood sample. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Knee joint surgery for artificial joint replacement is common in orthopedic surgeries. In this operation, there is a need to prepare the surface of the cortical bone for mounting the artificial joint. Therefore, milling process is frequently performed. Since the surgeon should be careful not to hurt bone tissue and neurons and also minimize waste of blood, the operation should be performed in the shortest possible time. This study, for the first time, focuses on modeling and optimization of effective parameters of bone milling including cutting speed, feed rate and tool diameter on surface roughness and material removal rate using response surface method. Results showed that in order to achieve maximum surface quality, minimum feed rate, maximum tool diameter and down milling procedure should be selected. On the other hand, the maximum material removal rate coincides with maximum feed rate and tool diameter. Therefore, cutting speed of 3000 rpm, feed rate of 50 mm/min, tool diameter of 5 mm and down milling procedure can satisfy both high surface quality and high material removal rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper is devoted to the study of a new discontinuous finite element idea for the time fractional diffusion-wave equation defined in bounded domain. The time fractional derivatives are described in the Caputo's sense. By applying the sine transform on the time fractional diffusion-wave equation, we make the equation depend on time. Then we use definition of Caputo's derivative and by defining l-degree discontinuous finite element with interpolated coefficients we solve the mentioned equation. Error estimate, existence and uniqueness are proved. Finally, the theoretical results are tested by some numerical examples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, a field research regarding groundwater contamination with fluoride and its related health risks to human health was carried out in 39 rural areas of Gonabad and Bajestan, Iran, in 2017. The results indicated that fluoride levels in two rural areas exceeded the WHO guideline. A total of 55% and 4.7% of the studied rural areas in Gonabad and Bajestan, respectively, had fluoride levels below the minimum recommended value of WHO for fluoride (0.5 mg/L). In this article, chronic non-cancer risks to three different groups of people, adults, children, and infants, for exposure to the fluoride were assessed. Health risk index values for fluoride contamination for 44% and 90% of children and infants in rural areas of Gonabad and Bajestan, respectively, were more than unity (>1), which clearly reveals that these age groups at the studied areas are at the chronic health risk due to the intake of fluoride-containing water. The order of fluoride contribution to non-carcinogenic health risk among the studied age groups was infants > children > adults. Therefore, from a public health viewpoint, it would be prudent and important that risk reduction measures be implemented to diminish the total body burden of fluoride in residents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper deals with an inverse problem of identifying a space dependent coefficient in a time-fractional diffusion equation on a finite domain with final observation. The existence and uniqueness of this inverse problem are proved. A numerical scheme is proposed to solve the problem. The main idea of the proposed scheme is approximating the time fractional derivative by Diethelm's quadrature formula and use the local discontinuous Galerkin method in space variable. Also, an error estimate for this problem is presented. Finally, two numerical example is studied to demonstrate the accuracy and efficiency of the proposed method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Sheep industry has taken steps toward transforming itself into a more efficient and competitive field. There are many varieties of sheep breeds in the world that each of them serves a useful purpose in the economies of different civilizations. Ghezel sheep is one of the Iranian important breeds that are raised for meat, milk and wool. Field of spermatogonial cell technologies provides tools for genetic improvement of sheep herd and multiple opportunities for research. Spermatogonial cells are the only stem cells capable of transmitting genetic information to future generations. Methods: This study was designed to extend the technique of isolation and in vitro proliferation of spermatogonial cells in Ghezel sheep. Results: Isolated cells were characterized further by using specific markers for type A spermatogonia, including PLZF. Also, sertoli cells were characterized by vimentin which is a specific marker for sertoli cells. After 10 days of co-culture, viability rates of the cells was above 94.7%, but after the freezing process the viability rates were 74 percent. Conclusion: In this study, a standard method for isolation and in vitro proliferation of spermatogonial stem cells in Ghezel sheep was developed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A method was developed to determine 2-mercaptobenzimidazole in water and urine samples using dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction technique coupled with ultraviolet-visible spectrophotometry. It was essential to peruse the effect of all parameters that can likely influence the performance of extraction. The influence of parameters, such as dispersive and extraction solvent volume and sample volume, on dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction was studied. The optimization was carried out by the central composite design method. The central composite design optimization method resulted in 1.10 mL dispersive solvent, 138.46 μL extraction solvent, and 4.46 mL sample volume. Under the optimal terms, the calibration curve was linear over the range of 0.003-0.18 and 0.007-0.18 μg/mL in water and urine samples, respectively. The limit of detection and quantification of the proposed approach for 2-mercaptobenzimidazole were 0.013 and 0.044 μg/mL in water samples and 0.016 and 0.052 μg/mL in urine samples, respectively. The method was successfully applied to determination of 2-mercaptobenzimidazole in urine and water samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Angiogenesis is the formation of new blood vessels which is involved in migration, growth and differentiation of endothelial cells. This process regularly occurs during growth and development in children however, in adults is usually part of a disease process such as cancer. The vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is a vital player in the vascular development and angiogenesis in physiological and pathological processes. Camelid's immune system has unique antibodies which are composed of only a heavy chain homodimer and the variable domain (VHH, Nanobody). Nanobodies are small, around 15 kDa and stable. In this study, we engineered and constructed a new Nanobody-Fc fusion protein (fusionbody) composed of an anti-VEGFR2 Nanobody and an Fc fragment of human IgG1 antibody. The recombinant vector was transfected into NS0 host cells. Stable producer clones were developed and the recombinant fusionbody was expressed and purified. Functional assay showed the anti-VEGFR2 fusionbody could bind to VEGFR2 on cell surface via VHH part and could mediate killing the targeted cells through direct cell death and complement-dependent cytotoxicity (CDC). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Groundwater is an important source for drinking water supply in the arid and semi-arid regions around the world. Eighty four groundwater samples collected from Kakhk and its all rural areas were evaluated for drinking quality using the water quality index (WQI). Additionally, the human health risks associated with nitrate and fluoride concentrations in drinking water were estimated for children and adults using the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) method in the investigated areas. Parameters including potassium, carbonate, bicarbonate, chloride, sulfate, nitrate, fluoride, calcium, magnesium, sodium, pH, total hardness and electrical conductivity were analyzed. Among these, levels of potassium, carbonate, nitrate and fluoride in all areas were within the permissible limits of World Health Organization (WHO) for drinking water. The mean concentrations of nitrate and fluoride in the study areas were 20.00 ± 14.81 mg/L and 0.32 ± 0.17 mg/L, respectively. The WQI classification showed that 16.6 %, 38 % and 45.2 % of water resources had excellent, good and poor water quality, respectively. 40.4 % of the areas had Hazard Quotient (HQ) values more than one (HQ ≥ 1), indicating the possibility of being non-carcinogenic risk of nitrate through water consumption for children. But values of HQ adults (for nitrate), HQ children (for fluoride) and HQ adults (for fluoride) all were less than 1 (HQ < 1), showing little or no risk from water consumption containing these elements in the areas. Regarding all of the measured parameters, higher CDI and HQ values were seen for children compared to adults. This study is useful, as it is the most comprehensive water quality assessment research conducted so far in Kakhk and its rural areas and will be a reference to future studies. • Quality of drinking water and health risk in Kakhk and its rural areas were assessed. • 16.6 %, 38 % and 45.2 % of the areas had excellent, good and poor water quality, respectively. • 40.4 % of the areas indicated the possibility of non-carcinogenic risk of nitrate for children. • Higher CDI and HQ values were seen for children compared to adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Buck sperm cryopreservation is an effective method to distribute qualified sperm for reproductive purposes, but this procedure reduces sperm quality. The current study was conducted to investigate the effect of L -carnitine (LC) on the quality and epigenetic patterns of buck's post-thawed semen. Semen samples were collected from five male goats twice a week and diluted in extenders supplemented with 0 (LC-0), 1 (LC-1), 5 (LC-5) and 10 (LC-10) mM LC. Samples were cryopreserved according to standard protocol. After thawing, motility characteristics, lipid peroxidation, membrane functionality, abnormal morphology, mitochondrial activity, acrosome integrity, epigenetic modifications, viability, apoptotic-like changes and DNA fragmentation were assessed. Samples supplemented with 5 mM LC showed greater (P ≤ 0.05) total motility, progressive motility, membrane functionality, mitochondrial activity, acrosome integrity, DNA methylation, viability, and lower (P ≤ 0.05) apoptotic-like changes. Lipid peroxidation was lower (P ≤ 0.05) in LC-5 and LC-10 compared to the control group. Addition of LC to the cryopreservation extender had no effect (P > 0.05) on velocity parameters, abnormal morphology, histone modifications, or DNA fragmentation. In conclusion, supplementing the cryopreservation extender with 5 mM LC significantly preserves the quality of buck sperm after the cryopreservation process. • The effects of L -carnitine was evaluated as a cryo-additive for buck semen cryopreservation. • L -carnitine preserved sperm mitochondrial activity, acrosome integrity, DNA methylation and viability. • L -carnitine decreased sperm apoptotic-like changes and lipid peroxidation. • L -carnitine had no effect on sperm morphology, histone modifications and DNA fragmentation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Grapefruit production has increasing rate in recent years. In this study a non-parametric method of Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) has used to estimate the energy efficiency of grapefruit production orchards in Sari region of Iran. Additionally, the impacts of energy inputs on grapefruit yield were determined. Data were collected using a face-to-face questionnaire method from 71 orchardists in winter 2014. The results showed that the total energy consumption was 49.8 GJ/ha and chemical fertilizers by 28% of this quantity had the highest share on total input energy. The results of CCR and BCC models of DEA showed that from total of 71 orchardists, only 21 orchards were technically efficient by efficiency score of one and 43 orchards were pure technical efficient. The average of technical efficiency and pure technical efficiency scores calculated as 0.94 and 0.86, respectively. The results of Cobb-Douglas production function showed that chemical fertilizer had the highest impact on yield level among all inputs. Additionally, the impact of indirect and direct energy in grapefruit production was significant at a 1% probability level with 0.84 and 0.89 regression coefficients, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article we study the operational matrices of Bernstein-Legendre polynomials and the discontinuous Petrov-Galerkin (DPG) for the numerical solution of fractional damped heat- and wave-like equations. We denote this new method by DPGBL. Numerical examples are considered that aim to demonstrate the validity and applicability of the proposed technique. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) are the best candidates for exploitation in genetic improvement of cattle herds. In fact, SSCs transmit genetic information to future generations. In vitro improvement in proliferation and frozen-thawed SSCs numbers is therefore needed. In the present study, bovine SSCs were cocultured with Sertoli cells, with or without insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1). During 16 days of incubation, 100 ng/mL IGF-1 showed higher efficacy in increasing the numbers and diameters of SSCs colonies than 40 and 150 ng/mL concentrations. Furthermore, 100 ng/mL IGF-1 increased the frozen/thawed cells' viability rate. Overall, these data demonstrate that usage of 100 ng/mL IGF-1 in vitro improves proliferation and postfreezing viability rate of SSCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The present study aims at comparing two training methods of self-management and relaxation on the aspects of quality of life in women with cancer. Methods: This is a pilot study which has been conducted by expanded pre-test and posttest pattern by control group. Community sample of this studywere all women with breast cancer in Ardabil in 1390 (Approximated estimation: N=1000). Samples were 60 women with breast cancer who were randomly selected among cancer patients in Ardabil. The questionnaire of quality of life by Brody et al., 1997 and self- concept scale by Dargotis et al., 1979 were administered on subjects as data collection materials in clinical centers. Multivariate analysisof covariance and Tukey's multiple comparison tests were used for data analysis. Results: The results showed that applying training methods of self-managementand relaxation improves significantly physical, emotional, social, communicative andfunctional, dimensions of quality of life and self-concept of women with cancer. Also data analysis showed that there is a significant difference between two methods of self- management and relaxation in effect. Conclusion: We conclude that self-management, and relaxation method by Benson can be used as effective, easy, inexpensive way to promote the quality of life of cancer patients in hospitals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

From past to the present, the issue of Perfect Man has been one of the studied subjects in Persian and mystical literature. In this regard, some great figures of Persian literature like Sanaee Qaznavi, Molana Jalal al-Din Balkhi and Sheikh Attar Nishaburi are famous for having mystical ideas but there are also some figures among mystics in whose words and works the traces of mysticism can be identified. One of such figures is Hakim Nizami Ganjavi. This article aims to analyze one of the principal issues of Islamic mysticism, i.e. the image of the Blessed Prophet (PBUH) as the Perfect Man and human Perfection, in his works and answer the following questions: What is the image of Muhammadan truth in Nizami's Khamseh? How is the Muhammadan Perfect Man defined in his view? What are the ideas and views of a philosopher like Nizami about the prototype of the Perfect Man, that is, the Blessed Prophet? To do this, first, the concept of Man is explored in Nizami works and, then, the issue of Muhammadan truth as the Perfect Man and human Perfection is investigated in his ideas and works. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to good climate condition and large cultivation area in Mazandaran province of Iran, orchard commodities products, especially orange production is widely improved in this region. In this study, Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) technique was used to analyze the efficiency of farmers, discriminate efficient orchards from inefficient ones and to identify wasteful uses of energy for orange producers in Sari region. Data were collected using face-to-face surveys from 86 orange orchardists and included the human power, machinery, diesel fuel, chemicals, fertilizer, farmyard manure, water for irrigation and electricity input sources used per hectare of orange production. The data was organized and analyzed by DEA Techniques. The results revealed that the total input and output energy were 54.2 and 59.2 GJ/ha, respectively. Diesel fuel, fertilizer and water for irrigation energies had the highest energy values per hectare respectively. Pure technical and scale efficiencies were calculated using CCR (Charnes--Cooper--Rhodes) and BCC (Banker-Charnes-Cooper) models. The technical, pure technical and scale efficiencies were calculated as 0.92, 0.96 and 0.97, respectively. The highest contribution to the total saving energy was provided by diesel fuel followed by fertilizer and water for irrigation energy input. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study a non-parametric method of Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) is used to estimate the energy efficiency and greenhouse gas emissions reduction of nectarine orchard holders in Sari region of Iran. Data were collected using a face-to-face questionnaire method from 45 orchardists. The results showed that based on constant returns to scale model, 24.4% of nectarine orchards were efficient, though based on variable returns to scale model it was 26.7%. The average of technical, pure technical and scale efficiency of nectarine orchards were 0.85, 0.99 and 0.86, respectively. By following the recommendations of this study about 1309 MJ ha-1 (3.25%) of total input energy could be saved. From total saved energy, electricity by 24.8% had highest share, followed by diesel fuel by 22.2%, fertilizers by 16.6% and water for irrigation by 11.8%. Also, energy ratio, energy productivity and net energy gained could improve by 3.68%, 2.78% and 9.03%, respectively. The results indicated that the total GHG emission of present and optimum orchards was found to be about 1266 and 1221 kgCO2eq.ha-1, respectively. Moreover, the total GHG emissions can be reduced about 45 kgCO2eq.ha-1in nectarine production by converting inefficient units to efficient ones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Experimental study of parameters on force in the cortical bone milling. • The effect of machining direction on the osteon orientation was investigated. • RSM and Sobol sensitivity analysis were used for this study. • Optimization was performed using Dringer algorithm. Bone milling force is a key factor to be controlled during the orthopedic surgery. Cutting force has significant influence on the breaking of the tools or causing bone cracks. The cutting force depends on machining parameters, cutting tools and the cortical bone tissue. In this paper, rotational speed, feed rate, cutting depth, tool diameter and the osteon orientation are considered as input parameters. For statistical modeling and experimental study, the response surface method was used. Moreover, using the Sobol statistical sensitivity analysis method the effect of each input parameter on the process force is investigated both qualitatively and quantitatively. Results revealed that bone milling force decreases with increasing rotational speed while it increases with feed rate due to an increase in the thickness of the deformed chip as well as an escalation of friction. Moreover, increasing cutting depth due to increased thickness of the deformed chip, increases friction and thus increases cutting force. Additionally, as the diameter of the blade increases, the cutting force increases. Finally, in the perpendicular direction to the osteon, less force is applied to the bone tissue than that of parallel to osteon. Based on Sobol sensitivity analysis, cutting depth (51.4%), feed rate (21.9%), tool rotational speed (19%), milling direction (4.8%) and tool diameter (1.9%) are the most effective respectively. Response optimization was also presented using Derringer algorithm, which provided a minimum cutting force of 3.76 N, when tool diameter of 4 mm, rotational speed of 3000 rpm and feed rate of 100 mm/min and cutting depth of 1 mm were selected in milling perpendicular to the osteon orientation. This research can be used to optimize milling parameters in order to assist robotic surgery and orthopedic tool design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A diimide-diacid was synthesized from the reaction between a new diamine, 4,4′-(4-(4-(quinolin-8-yloxy)phenyl)-4H-1,2,4-triazole-3,5-diyl)dianiline (6), and trimellitic anhydride. A series of poly(triazole-amide-imide)s (PTAI)s containing phenoxyquinoline as pendant was synthesized from polycondensation between the diimide-diacid with diamine (6) and three commercial diamines using Yamazaki's method. Inherent viscosities of PTAIs were in the range of 0.61-0.67 dL/g, they were readily soluble in a variety of organic solvents and formed low-colored and tough thin films via solution casting. PTAIs exhibited T between 270 °C and 340 °C, and their 10 % weight loss temperatures (T) were in the range of 430-500 °C. A series of nanocomposites was prepared from solution blending process of PTAI and surface modified TiO nanoparticles (MNTiO). Structure and morphology of the nanocomposites were investigated by FT-IR spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). The effect of interfacial interaction between MNTiO and polymer chains on thermal, physical, mechanical, thermo-mechanical and photophysical properties of nanocomposites was investigated. Triazole and phenoxyquinoline groups were efficient chelating/host units for heavy metals; therefore PTAIs and nanocomposites were used for the extraction and elimination of environmentally deleterious ions from aqueous solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spermatogonial Stem Cell (SSC) technologies provide multiple opportunities for research in the field of biotechnology and regenerative medicine. The therapeutic use of Embryonic Stem Cells (ESCs) is restricted due to severe ethical and immunological concerns. Therefore, we need a new pluripotent cell type. Despite well-known role of germ cells in the gametogenesis, some facts apparently show their multipotentiality. In the present study, bovine SSCs were co-cultured with Sertoli cell for 7 days. Sertoli cells and SSCs were identified by Vimentin and Oct-4 immunocytochemical staining method, respectively. In order to differentiate SSCs into osteoblasts, we used consecutive inducer media without separation of the colonies. We characterized osteoblasts using Alizarin red staining. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

1. Gram-negative bacterial lipopolysaccharide (IPS) release and subsequent septic shock is a major cause of death in intensive care units. Lipopolysaccharide has been reported to increase the production of nitric oxide (NO) and the formation of oxygen-derived free radicals (OFR) in different organs. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the role of an inducible form of NO synthase (INOS) and OFR production in LPS-induced renal impairment. 2. Measurement of vitamin E as the most important fat- soluble anti-oxidant was used as a marker of tissue oxidative stress. Lipopolysaccharide (10 mg/kg), L-iminoethyl lysine (L-Nil; 3 mg/kg, i.p.; a specific inhibitor of iNOS activity) and dimethyl thiourea (DMTU; 500 mg/kg i.p.; a well-known OFR scavenger) were used. Four groups of eight rats were studied. One group received LPS, whereas a second group received LPS + L-Nil. A third group received LPS + DMTU and the fourth group, receiving saline, acted as a control group. To evaluate renal function, plasma creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) were measured. High-pressure Liquid chromatography and ultraviolet detection were used to measure plasma and tissue vitamin F levels, light microscopy was used to examine histopathological changes in the four groups. 3. Lipopolysaccharide markedly decreased the vitamin E content of renal plasma and tissue (P < 0.05). Administration of L-Nil attenuated renal dysfunction and preserved vitamin E levels. However, DMTU failed to prevent renal injury, as indicated by plasma BUN levels and renal histology, despite the fact that it maintained renal vitamin E levels and increased plasma vitamin E levels. Thus, the overproduction of NO by iNOS may have a role in this model of LPS-induced renal impairment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common cause of liver disease in children. Following earlier reports on an increase in the prevalence of childhood obesity, NAFLD is now becoming increasingly common in children. Although no definitive cure exists, early management, early diagnosis, and treatment can reduce its complications. This study aims to determine the effectiveness of the combination of ginger and an anti‐inflammatory diet (AID) in children with obesity on fatty liver management. This randomized clinical trial was conducted on 160 children with obesity aged 8–11 years, with a mean (SD) weight of 65.01 (9.67) kg, mean (SD) height of 139.87 (7.37) cm, and mean (SD) body mass index of 33.40 (5.59) kg/m2. The study duration was 12 weeks. Children were divided into four groups: ginger (G), AID, ginger plus an AID (GPA), and control. Ginger capsules comprised 1000 mg of ginger, whereas the AID comprised fruits and vegetables, fish, turkey, and chicken (without skin) with lean meat, omega‐3 sources, nuts, legumes, probiotic products, and elimination of inflammatory food. Following the intervention, serum fasting blood sugar and high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein levels were significantly decreased in the AID (p =.006 and.002, respectively), G (p =.04 and <.001, respectively), and GPA (p <.001 in both cases, respectively) groups. Further, in the G and GPA groups, there was a significant decrease in body mass index (p =.04 in both cases, respectively), waist circumference (p =.009 and.003, respectively), waist‐to‐height ratio (p =.02 and.005, respectively), alanine aminotransferase (p =.004 and <.001, respectively), total cholesterol (p =.0002 and.0001, respectively) and low‐density lipoprotein‐cholesterol (p <.001 and <.001, respectively). Eventually, serum aspartate aminotransferase was decreased (p <.001) and high‐density lipoprotein‐cholesterol (p =.03) was increased significantly in the GPA group. As a main finding of this study, hepatic steatosis significantly decreased in the G and GPA groups. Ginger supplementation can effectively improve NAFLD in children, and its effectiveness was further increased when combined with an AID. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main purpose of this study is to provide advanced insights into scanning electron microscopy (SEM) of adipose derived mesenchymal stem cells (oAD-MSCs). In this study after isolation and proliferation of ADMSCs, their cell surface markers characterized using antibodies RT-PCR. SEM was used to study of ultrastructure of oAD-MSCs. Adipose tissue was obtained from tail fat of sheep. Surface markers (CD44, CD90, CD34, CD31) evaluated by RT-PCR. RT-PCR was done for CD44, CD90, CD34 and CD31 to identify of cells. Morphological characterization was done by inverted microscope and SEM. Cells was prepared by glutaraldehyde for first fixation and tetroxide osmium for second fixation and dehydration with different percent of ethanol. Finally, cells coated with gold and observed in SEM. Adipose derived mesenchymal stem cells (AD-MSCs) were isolated and proliferated. They were positive for CD44 and CD90 markers and negative for CD31 and Cd34 markers in RT-PCR technique. AD-MSCs showed a fibroblast-like, spindleshaped morphology after they attached to the culture flasks observing in inverted microscope. Explanted specimens were imaged with scanning electron microscopy (SEM). SEM provides the main technology to visualize surface features. In SEM the outer surface of the mesenchymal cells could be observed; so, in this study, the pseudopods arising from each cell and extending through each other were clearly shown. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vanadium oxide nanoparticles (VO 2 -NPs) were synthesized and utilized as an adsorbent against methylene blue (MB) from aqueous environment. Three substantial variables, pH, mixing time, and VO 2 dose, were considered in the process modeling accomplished by Box-Behnken design (BBD). The quadratic model revealed that the VO 2 -NPs dose plays the most significant role. The model optimization predicts a 96.3% MB removal when pH, VO 2 NPs dosage, and contact time were adjusted to 6, 0.5 g/L, and 30 min, respectively. The sorption capacity of VO 2 -NPs raised rapidly from 49.6 mg/g to 235.7 mg/g by increasing the initial MB concentration from 25 to 200 mg/L, respectively. The best fitted kinetic model was the pseudo-second order, while the well fitted Langmuir model showed a q max of 240.5 mg/g. The study of the temperature effect revealed that increase of the temperature had a positive impact on the removal efficiency. Unlabelled Image • Vanadium oxide nanoparticles (VO 2 -NPs) of a high purity and porosity were synthesized. • VO 2 -NPs revealed an elevated adsorption capability against the methylene blue dye. • The maximum adsorption was estimated as 240.5 mg/g based on the Langmuir model. • Process modeling was accomplished by Box-Behnken design (BBD). • The optimum parameters: pH = 6, 0.5 g/L of adsorbent, and 30 min of mixing [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Collecting water from the atmosphere has been studied to address the global water shortage. One main challenge in this method is designing a patterned surface to maximize the water collection efficiency. In this work, we propose a bioinspired categorization method for the types of surfaces based on leaf venation patterns that are fabricated by direct laser writing. Our method introduces three categories from simple to complex intervals that include: completely linear, a combination of linear and network, and completely networked. Results show that our design-inspired pieces of venations suggest superior performance compared to the simple non-planar surface by boosting the efficiency of about ∼200−400% at the best venation pattern at 60° while making it possible to have enhanced effective and controllable transport of liquid through channels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Power performance of a straight blade vertical axis wind turbine augmented with a flat plate deflector was studied. A design of experiment method based on Taguchi's L 16 orthogonal array was employed to optimize the position, orientation, and dimensions of the deflector. Five parameters, including the horizontal distance of the top edge of the deflector from the axis of rotation of the turbine (X), the vertical distance of the top edge of the deflector from the bottom of the blades (W), the length of the deflector (L), the width of the deflector (W), and the angle of the deflector with respect to the axis of rotation of the turbine (φ) were investigated. 16 three-dimensional numerical experiments were conducted to assess the effect of theses parameters on the power output of the wind turbine. Analyzing the results showed that the level of the influence of these five parameters can be ordered as φ > W > X > Y > L, which means that φ has the strongest impact on the performance of the wind turbine and L has the weakest impact. Utilizing the deflector with optimum parameters increased the efficiency of the wind turbine by 16.42 % compare to the bare turbine. • 3D simulation of a vertical axis wind turbine is performed. • The effect of a flat plate deflector on the power output is studied. • The position, orientation, and dimensions of the deflector are optimized. • The Taguchi's method is used to determine the optimum parameters. • The optimum deflector parameters improve the coefficient of power by 16.42%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 56-day study was carried out to examine the addition of live foods a biofloc technology (BFT) system on Penaeus vannamei postlarvae performance (PL25, initial weight: 0.15 g). Four treatments were designed, including 1) control: PL were only fed with an artificial diet (38% crude protein; 9%, crude fat) in a clear seawater system; 2) CBC: inclusion of copepod (Calanopia elliptica, 0.2 organisms/mL) in the BFT; 3) ABC: inclusion of Artemia nauplii (Artemia franciscana, 0.1 organisms/mL) in the BFT and 4) RBC: inclusion of rotifer (Brachionus rotundiformis, 0.3 organisms/mL) in the BFT. Postlarvae were stocked into twelve tanks that contained 200 L seawater (70 PL/tank). The mean values for water temperature, salinity, and dissolved oxygen were 31.0 °C, 36 ppt, and > 5 ppm, respectively. Total ammonia and nitrite nitrogen in BFT system were lower than the control. The highest and lowest weight gain (4296.5 vs. 3242.2%) was in CBC and the control, respectively. The best feed conversion ratio (FCR) value (1.22) was in CBC group. The gut's epithelial cell length in BFT groups was higher than the control. The highest total hemocyte count (152.2 × 105/mL) and total plasma protein (122.31 g/L) were in CBC group (P < 0.05). The relative abundance of lysozyme, prophenoloxidase, superoxide dismutase, and catalase genes mRNA transcript in the hepatopancreas of shrimps reared in the BFT that supplemented with different live foods was higher than the control (P < 0.05). According to the findings of the present study, the inclusion of Calanopia elliptica at a density of 0.2 organisms/mL in BFT led to higher growth rate, better FCR, and greater immunocompetence in P. vannamei compare to rotifer and Artemia nauplii. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study deals with cryopreservation of spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) of native goat using different media along with cryoprotectant. Morphological differentiation and immunocytochemistry tests were used to identify the cells. Furthermore anti-vimentin and anti-Oct-4 immuno staining methods were used for identification of sertoli cells and SSCs, respectively. Cryopreservation of SSCs was done with two sets of media. One with 40% dulbecco's modified eagle's medium (DMEM), 50% fetal bovine serum (FBS) and 10% dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO). The second medium included 90% FBS and 10% DMSO. Post thaw cryopreserved cells were subjected to viability and colony area formation on 4th, 8th and 12th days of culturing after and before cryopreservation. Results clearly indicated the viability, area and number of colonies in the first medium registered to 61.37%, 0.87 mm² and 246.88 averagely in every 25 cm² culture flask, respectively. Similarly with second medium, post thaw cryopreserved sperm registered viability, area and number of colonies to 73.87%, 2.74 mm² and 364.36 in every 25 cm2 culture flask, respectively. After the thawing of spermatogonial cells, the best viability percentage was obtained in the freezing medium containing 90% FBS. Thus the study demonstrated that serum concentration had a distinct positive effect on the maintenance and proliferation of SSCs in culture after cryopreservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aedes aegypti and Anopheles stephensi have challenged human health by transmitting several infectious disease agents, such as malaria, dengue fever, and yellow fever. Larvicides, especially in endemic regions, is an effective approach to the control of mosquito-borne diseases. In this study, the composition of three essential oil from the Artemisia L. family was analyzed by Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry. Afterward, nanoliposomes containing essential oils of A. annua, A. dracunculus, and A. sieberi with particle sizes of 137 ± 5, 151 ± 6, and 92 ± 5 nm were prepared. Besides, their zeta potential values were obtained at 32 ± 0.5, 32 ± 0.6, and 43 ± 1.7 mV. ATR-FTIR analysis (Attenuated Total Reflection-Fourier Transform InfraRed) confirmed the successful loading of the essential oils. Moreover, The LC50 values of nanoliposomes against Ae. aegypti larvae were 34, 151, and 197 µg/mL. These values for An.stephensi were obtained as 23 and 90, and 140 µg/mL, respectively. The results revealed that nanoliposomes containing A. dracunculus exerted the highest potential larvicidal effect against Ae. aegypti and An. stephensi, which can be considered against other mosquitoes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Retardation of quality loss of seafood has been a new concept in recent years. This study's main objective was to evaluate the microbial, chemical, and sensory attributes of shrimp coated with alginate sodium nanoparticles containing Zataria multiflora and Cuminum cyminum essential oils (EOs) during refrigerated storage. At the end of storage time (15 days storage at 4°C), the pH, thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), and total volatile basic nitrogen (TVBN) amounts in shrimps coated with the alginate nanoparticles were 7.62, 1.14 mg MDA/kg, and 117 mg/100 g which were significantly (p <.05) lower than the control groups. The count of all bacteria groups was also lower in this treatment, which was 2–2.74 Log CFU/mL on day 15 of cold storage. This combined treatment also obtained the highest sensory scores (around 7) and the lowest melanosis score (2.67) due to the effective delaying microbial and oxidation activities. Therefore, this edible coating could substantially retard microbial and chemical changes and improve the organoleptic properties of shrimp under refrigerated storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In orthopedic surgeries, examining the effect of machining conditions are very crucial due to the possibility of damage to the bone tissue, and the occurrence of thermal necrosis. Considering that a comprehensive and methodical study based on the design of experiment method, artificial intelligence modeling and sensitivity analysis can complement the previous investigations, so we found this motivation to explore the behavior of the two important variables of cutting force and temperature in the cortical bone micro-milling operation. Accordingly, in this paper, the effect of micro-milling conditions, including feed rate, tool rotational speed, tool diameter, and cutting depth on cutting force and temperature have been investigated simultaneously. For this purpose, based on the design of experiment technique, the set of experimental tests was performed on fresh cortical bone. Next, a machine learning technique known as support vector regression (SVR) is used to model and predict the force and temperature in the machining procedure. Subsequently, based on the attained model, a big dataset is prepared, and by utilizing the extended Fourier amplitude sensitivity test (EFAST), the effectiveness of the output variables on the input parameters was determined. The SVR predictor achieved the root mean square error of (0.329, 2.133), the mean absolute error of (0.277, 1.820), the mean absolute percentage error of (9.266, 5.353), and the correlation factor of (0.971, 0.904) for (force, temperature). Also, it is realized that, feed rate, rotational speed, cutting depth, and tool diameter, affect the (force, temperature) by (46%, 8.9%), (34%, 9.2%), (15%, 1.5%), and (4%, 80.3%), respectively. By using the attained model of bone micro-milling operation, the surgeons can predict the temperature and force under different machining parameters before the surgery, consequently choosing the optimized machining conditions to reduce the temperature and cutting force. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Valorization of waste materials and byproducts as adsorbents is a sustainable approach for water treatment systems. Pottery Granules (PG) without any chemical and thermal modification were used as a low-cost, abundant, and environmentally benign adsorbent against Pb(II), the toxic metal in drinking water. The porous structure and complex mineral composition of PG made it an efficient adsorbent material for Pb(II). The effect of key physicochemical factors was investigated to determine the significance of contact time, PG dose, pH, solution temperature, and coexisting ions, on the process. Pb(II) removal increased by PG dose in the range of 5–15 g/L, and agitation time from 5 to 60 min. Increasing Pb(II) concentration led to a drop in Pb(II) removal, however, adsorption capacity increased significantly as concentration elevated. Pb(II) removal also increased significantly from ~ 45% to ~ 97% by pH from 2 to 12. A ~ 20% improvement in Pb(II) adsorption after rising the solution temperature by 30˚C, indicated the endothermic nature of the process. The sorption was described to be a favorable process in which Pb(II) was adsorbed in a multilayer onto the heterogeneous PG surface. The qmax of 9.47 mg/g obtained by the Langmuir model was superior among many reported low-cost adsorbents. The Pb(II) adsorption was described well by the Pseudo- first-order kinetic model. Na+, Mg2+, Ca2+, Cd2+, and Zn2+ showed a negligible effect on Pb(II) adsorption. However, the presence of Mn2+ and Fe2+ significantly hindered the process efficacy. In conclusion, the use of waste material such as PG against Pb(II) is a viable option from the economic and effectiveness points of view. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cell membrane of rooster sperm is sensitive to cold due to the high content of polyunsaturated fatty acids, which are very susceptible to lipid peroxidation. The present study was conducted to determine the effect of different concentrations of the mitochondrial-targeting antioxidant "MitoQ" on sperm quality and fertility potential of chilled semen in roosters. Semen samples were collected from 10 roosters, diluted in Lake extender, assigned into 5 groups according to MitoQ concentrations (0, 1, 10, 100 and 1000 nM MitoQ) and stored at 5 °C up to 48 h. Motility, mitochondrial activity, viability, membrane integrity, and lipid peroxidation were assessed at 0, 24, and 48 h of cold storage periods. In addition, the fertility potential was assessed using 24 h-cooled semen samples. Our results showed that extender supplementation with MitoQ had no effect (P > 0.05) on chilled semen samples quality parameters at time 0, while at times 24 and 48 h storage, samples contained 100 nM MitoQ presented higher (P ≤ 0.05) total motility, progressive motility, viability and membrane integrity compared to the other groups. In addition, semen samples containing 10 and 100 nM MitoQ showed higher (P ≤ 0.05) mitochondrial activity and lower (P ≤ 0.05) lipid peroxidation than other groups at 24 and 48 h storage. Fertility rate was higher (P ≤ 0.05) when the hens were artificially inseminated with 24 h-chilled semen samples containing 100 nM MitoQ. In conclusion, supplementing Lake Extender with 100 nM MitoQ could be a helpful strategy to preserve chilled semen quality and fertility potential in the rooster. • We analyzed the effects of MitoQ on rooster semen quality during cooling storage. • Using 100 nM MitoQ presented suitable cooled sperm quality during cooling storage. • Cooled semen contained 100 nM MitoQ improved fertility potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There are many different strategies to decrease the incidence of infection of medical device and food related containers. One way to prevent infection is by modifying the polymers used in making the devices and containers. Incorporation of antimicrobial agents in the bulk material or in formulations of medical devices production has been considered a viable alternative for systemic application of antibiotics. In this article, preparation of a series of triazole containing polymers, poly(triazole-amide-imide)s (PTAI)s and poly(triazole-amide) (PTA)s, and their monomers are reported. These polymers were readily soluble in a variety of organic solvents, showed significant thermal properties and also viscosities in the range of 0.55–0.66 dL/g. They have been tested against a range of Gram-positive and Gram-negative pathogens. The results indicated that these novel polymers containing triazole moiety in their repeating units can effectively control Gram-positive and negative pathogens and their physic-chemical properties besides their antibacterial characteristics make them unique candidate for using in the manufacturing of the medical devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study a non-parametric method of DEA (Data Envelopment Analysis) and MOGA (Multi-Objective Genetic Algorithm) were used to estimate the energy efficiency and greenhouse gas emissions reduction of wheat farmers in Ahvaz county of Iran. Data were collected using a face-to-face questionnaire method from 39 farmers. The results showed that based on constant returns to scale model, 41.02% of wheat farms were efficient, though based on variable returns to scale model it was 53.23%. The average of technical, pure technical and scale efficiency of wheat farms were 0.94, 0.95 and 0.98, respectively. By following the recommendations of this study, 3640.90 MJ ha −1 could be saved (9.13% of total input energy). Moreover, 42 optimal units were found by MOGA. The total energy required and GHG (greenhouse gas) emissions of the best generation of MOGA were about 23105 MJ ha −1 and 340 kgCO 2eq. ha −1 , respectively. The results revealed that the total energy required of MOGA was less than DEA, significantly. Also, the GHG emissions of present, DEA and MOGA farms were about 903, 837 and 340 kgCO 2eq. ha −1 , respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new diamine, 4,4′-(4-(4-(quinolin-8-yloxy)phenyl)-4 H-1,2,4-triazole-3,5-diyl)dianiline (6), containing triazole and phenoxyquinoline rings was synthesized, fully characterized and used in reaction with three commercial dianhydrides for preparation of a series of high-performance polymers, poly(triazole-imide)s (PTI). These polymers were characterized by FT-IR and H NMR, their viscosities were in the range of 0.60-0.62 dL g, and they were readily soluble in a variety of organic solvents and formed low-colored and tough thin films via solution casting. PTIs exhibited glass transition temperatures ( T) and 10 % weight loss temperatures ( T) in the range of 270-310 and 450-520 °C, respectively. These functionalized polymers were used in preparation of nanocomposites with silane-modified nanoclay (MNclay) using solution-blending process. Structure and morphology of nanocomposites was characterized by FT-IR, X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy. The effect of chemical interaction between MNclay and polymer chains on the properties of nanocomposites such as thermal, mechanical and photophysical was investigated. PTIs and nanocomposites were also efficient in removal of heavy metal cations and F and CrO anions from aqueous solution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the relationship between feeding time preference and appetite in Oncorhynchus mykiss with scheduled feeding frequencies was investigated using neuropeptide Y (NPY). Samples (n = 288 , initial weight: 38.72 ± 2.99 g) were stocked in three treatments of different feeding frequencies with six replications. Treatments included one feeding time at 09:00 (T1), three feeding times at 09:00, 13:00, and 17:00 (T2), and five feeding times at 09:00, 11:00, 13:00, 15:00, and 17:00 (T3) every day based on 5% of body weight for 30 days. On day 31, each experimental treatment was divided into fed and unfed groups with triplicates. To measure NPY expression, fish were sampled from both groups 15 minutes earlier than feeding hours. In a comparison of the NPY expression in T1 of the fed group, the highest level of NPY occurred at 08:45. In T2, the NPY was maximized at 08:45, 12:45, and 16:45. In T3, the NPY increased significantly at 08:45 compared to the other sampling hours. In T1 and T2 of the unfed group, the highest NPY was recorded at 10:45 and 14:45, respectively. In T3, upward and downward changes in the NPY were observed from 08:45 to 12:45 and from 12:45 to 16:45, respectively. Concerning changes in the NPY levels, the fed groups in the three treatments were significantly different at all hours, except for 08:45. In the unfed groups, significant differences were recorded between the treatments at 10:45 and 14:45. According to the fish appetite, it can be concluded that feeding O. mykiss three times a day at about 4 h intervals may be appropriate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) is a potent mycotoxin which has been produced by fungi such as Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus as secondary metabolites due to their growth on food stuffs and induces hepatocellular carcinoma in many animal species, including humans. In the present study, the effect of AFB1 on STAT5A gene expression was investigated in bovine mammary epithelial cells using real time RT-PCR. Methods: Bovine mammary epithelial cells were seeded in a 24-well culture plate for three-dimensional (3D) culture in Matrigel matrix. After 21 days of 3D culture and reaching the required number of cells, cells were treated with AFB1 and incubated for 8 h. For real time PCR reaction, total RNA from the cultured and treated cells was extracted and used for complementary DNA synthesis. Results: The expression of STAT5A gene was significantly down regulated by AFB1 in dose- dependent manner and led to the reduction of proliferation and differentiation of epithelial cells, which has direct effect in milk protein quantity and quality. Conclusion: According to the results, it seems that down regulation of STAT5A gene in AFB1-treated cells maybe due to DNA damage induced by AFB1 in bovine mammary epithelial cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]