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Background: Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) accounts for 15% of all breast cancer (BC) cases and is a severe type of BC. Since medicinal herbs containing biocompatible substances that are accepted by patient more than chemical therapeutics, they can be considered a safe option for treating BC. Objective: This study evaluated the effect of Sambucus Ebulus (S. ebulus) extract on a model of TNBC. Methods: S. ebulus extract was prepared using petroleum ether, ethyl acetate, and methanol. The petroleum ether extract was fractionated and analyzed using vacuum liquid chromatography and GC-MS, respectively. MDAMB- 231 and MCF-10A were used as TNBC and normal breast cells, respectively. Flowcytometry and MTT assays were performed to evaluate cell cycle, apoptosis, and viability of the cells. Gene expression analysis was performed using RT-qPCR. Nude mouse allograft tumor models were used, and pathological sections were evaluated. Results: The findings indicated that S. ebulus extract remarkably decreased cell proliferation and viability. The extract had no toxicity to the normal breast cells but efficiently killed the cancer cells. Cell cycle- and apoptosisrelated gene expression showed that fraction 4 of S. ebulus extract significantly increased the expression of Bax, Bak, P53, and c-MYC. Conclusion: This study showed satisfactory results of the effect of S. ebulus extract on clearing BC cells both in vitro and in vivo. Thus, S. ebulus extract may be a safe herbal compound for eliminating BC cells without toxicity to host cells.

PURPOSE Constitutional mismatch repair deficiency syndrome (CMMRD) is a lethal cancer predisposition syndrome characterized by early-onset synchronous and metachronous multiorgan tumors. We designed a surveillance protocol for early tumor detection in these individuals. PATIENTS AND METHODS Data were collected from patients with confirmed CMMRD who were registered in the International Replication Repair Deficiency Consortium. Tumor spectrum, efficacy of the surveillance protocol, and malignant transformation of low-grade lesions were examined for the entire cohort. Survival outcomes were analyzed for patients followed prospectively from the time of surveillance implementation. RESULTS A total of 193 malignant tumors in 110 patients were identified. Median age of first cancer diagnosis was 9.2 years (range: 1.7-39.5 years). For patients undergoing surveillance, all GI and other solid tumors, and 75% of brain cancers were detected asymptomatically. By contrast, only 16% of hematologic malignancies were detected asymptomatically ( P < .001). Eighty-nine patients were followed prospectively and used for survival analysis. Five-year overall survival (OS) was 90% (95% CI, 78.6 to 100) and 50% (95% CI, 39.2 to 63.7) when cancer was detected asymptomatically and symptomatically, respectively ( P = .001). Patient outcome measured by adherence to the surveillance protocol revealed 4-year OS of 79% (95% CI, 54.8 to 90.9) for patients undergoing full surveillance, 55% (95% CI, 28.5 to 74.5) for partial surveillance, and 15% (95% CI, 5.2 to 28.8) for those not under surveillance ( P < .0001). Of the 64 low-grade tumors detected, the cumulative likelihood of transformation from low-to high-grade was 81% for GI cancers within 8 years and 100% for gliomas in 6 years. CONCLUSION Surveillance and early cancer detection are associated with improved OS for individuals with CMMRD.

Identifying Components of Social Responsibility in Curriculum of Skills UniversityIntroductionPlaying the role of an active citizen in civil society is possible by augmenting the sense of social responsibility in the community. Therefore, to achieve this goal, teaching the principles, methods and approaches of social responsibility should be reflected in the curriculum. The goal of this report is to identify the components of social responsibility in the curriculum of Skills University as one of the top universities for creating sustainable employment.MethodsA qualitative method was used in this study according to the purpose and nature of research. Statistical sample includes 18 experts in the field of skills training; Sampling was performed purposefully. Data collection tools are semi-constructive interviews and data analysis methods based on thematic analysis technique. Findings from the study showed that educational content, learning and teaching activities, and continuous evaluations are principles that, in terms of social responsibility, lead higher education curricula toward skill-oriented curricula. The connection between the components and elements of the curriculum as an educational sub-system and macro-educational programs can make the social institution of higher education more capable.ResultsThe results showed that the three main categories of educational content, learning and teaching activities, and continuous assessment are social responsibility categories in the curriculum of Skills University. Based on these categories, a model of social responsibility was developed in the curriculum of Skills University.DiscussionAchieving social responsibility requires that Skill University change the curriculum paradigm and the elements contained in it to institutionalize the components of social responsibility in the core of curriculum activities. The establishment of a social responsibility research center in Skills University and affiliated colleges to monitor the curriculum contexts, behaviors and structures according to the components identified in this study can be considered a turning point for this goal. Keywords: Curriculum, Skills University, Social Responsibility

A systematic material characterization approach is presented to demonstrate the critical impact of input powder attributes on the optimized parameters and the as-built properties in the Laser Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF) of AlSi10Mg alloy. Two batches of powders (conventional and specialty) with widely different attributes, including particles’ morphology, size distribution, internal oxidation, surface chemistry and roughness, were separately investigated for the optimized LPBF parameters. It is showed that the specialty powder with a spherical morphology and a larger mean particle size exhibits a higher flowability, as well as a higher apparent density. The latter, together with a smoother surface topography in the specialty powder particles (thus a lower laser absorptivity), necessitates a higher volumetric energy density (VED) requirement for a complete fusion during the LPBF. The as-built microstructures which resulted from both powders show a similar evolution of total porosity content, melt-pool boundaries and solidification structure, both qualitatively and quantitatively, which is consistent with their comparable YS values. The specialty powder, however, yields a higher UTS and %El in the as-built state, which is believed to be due to a scarce presence of O-rich particles (which otherwise preside primarily within the intercellular regions, as is the case for the conventional powder). The emergence of such O-rich particles in the as-built microstructure could be traced back to the powder source (i.e., in the form of internal O-rich phases and a thick oxide surface layer in the conventional powder). In other words, an O-lean powder translates into an O-lean printed part. One-time recycling of the specialty powder is shown to have a negligible effect on its morphological characteristics, and thus on the optimized set of parameters, consistently yielding as-built YS values similar to those of the original powder. The as-built UTS and %El values resulting from the recycled powder, however, are notably lower than those from the original powder, which are suggested to be due to the presence of contaminants and/or oxide inclusions resulting from the LPBF processing itself and/or during the recycling procedure (e.g., sieving). We believe the correlations established here between the input powder attributes and the LPBF performance of AlSi10Mg alloy can be applicable to many metallic systems.

The main drawback of friction stir welding (FSW) dissimilar metals is the formation of intermetallic compounds (IMCs), which are brittle and affect the strength of the joint. The formation of these compounds is inevitable due to their low enthalpy of formation; however, their emergence is an indication of metallurgical bonding between dissimilar metals. This means that the determining factors of intermetallics should be optimal to ensure the formation of the joint and, at the same time, the performance of the joint. It is known that various parameters such as welding parameters, joint configuration, and tool geometry have an influence on the formation of these compounds. However, the influence of the base metal is not adequately addressed in the literature. The current review paper focuses on intermetallic formation during the friction stir welding of aluminum/steel (Al/St) alloys to explore how the types of alloys affect the thicknesses and morphologies of the intermetallics. Different structural steels and stainless steels were considered to see how they affect intermetallic formation when welded to different types of aluminum alloys. The thicknesses of the IMCs in the FSW of different aluminum/steel alloys were taken from the literature and averaged to provide insight into the contribution of the elements to IMC formation. Thermodynamic and kinetic analyses were used to explain this effect. Finally, the mechanism of intermetallic formation is explained to provide a useful guide for selecting dissimilar metals for welding using friction stir welding.

Knowledge-based economies and the movement towards capital gaining through the application of science and knowledge, are undeniable necessities for the preservation and survival of universities. Furthermore, they help meet the needs of the people at universities and the society. Universities of medical sciences across the country contain creative human resource (including faculty members, students, graduates and employees) with technological ideas. However, they show little tendency towards commercialization and creation of knowledge-based companies. This research is intended to provide a model for creating knowledge-based companies through SWOT approach in medical universities in Mazandaran province. This applied research follows field method to regard the level of control of field variables. In terms of data collection it is a descriptive research relying on context search. The research can also be regarded as an exploratory research by some considerations. The statistical population of the qualitative stage includes 15 scientific experts, chairmen and experts of the university's development centers, research and technology units of the university, officials and experts of the science and technology parks, and experts of knowledge-based companies. The statistical population of the quantitative phase include the faculty members of medical sciences universities in Mazandaran (University of Babul and Mazandaran University) including 750 professors from whom a sample of 256 people were selected as the sample by stratified random sampling method based on Morgan table. A researcher-made questionnaire, containing 45 items, was developed as a result of interviews for data collection. The validity and reliability of this questionnaire were confirmed. Qualitative data analysis of the research was done through open coding and central coding. For the analysis of quantitative data, the structural equation model test using the partial least squares method (PLS) was used for performing factor analysis. Using the structural equation model test, the researchers designed the final research model as a model for creating knowledge-based companies through SWOT approach for medical universities. The model illustrates the share of each factors. Threats occupy the highest factor load and first rank with a factor load of 0.813. Opportunities fit the second rank with a factor load of 0.787. Strengths with a factor load of 0.0569 take the third rank and the factor of weaknesses take the fourth rank with a factor load of 0.266..

Using advanced electron microscopy techniques, statistical analysis and analytical investigation of precipitates/dispersoids evolution, we demonstrate the critical effect of alloy composition (Sc, Mn, and Mg content) and thermal processing route (heating rate and pre-aging) on the recrystallization behavior of AlScZrMn(Mg) alloys. Two major types of second phases, namely Al3(Sc,Zr) precipitates and α-Al(Mn,Fe)Si dispersoids, were identified in the thermally-treated cold-rolled sheets (of 0.3 mm thickness). Both phases were observed to maintain coherency with the Al matrix at abnormally large sizes (>100 nm and >500 nm, respectively), as well as exhibiting unprecedented levels of thermal stability (i.e., high coarsening resistance). The recrystallization behavior and strength evolution were shown to be a strong function of the size and aerial number density evolution of the precipitates/dispersoids which, in turn, are controlled by the alloy composition and thermal history. Particularly, the recrystallization was effectively mitigated at a slow ramp to 590 °C (a typical brazing temperature for AlMn alloys) whereas a full recrystallization occurred during a faster ramp. Such behavior was explained by the competitive kinetics of Al3(Sc,Zr) precipitation and recrystallization phenomenon at intermediate and high-temperature ranges upon heating to 590 °C. The introduction of a pre-aging treatment within the intermediate temperature range (i.e., 250–400 °C), prior to the fast ramp, was shown to prevent recrystallization due to the stabilization effect of a large aerial number density of finely-dispersed Al3(Sc,Zr) precipitates. A higher Sc content in the alloy enhances such a stabilization effect. Mn additions not only enhance the mitigation of recrystallization (through a refinement of Al3(Sc,Zr) precipitates) but also refines the evolution of α-Al(Mn,Fe)Si dispersoids resulting in a higher yield strength. The Mg addition, on the other hand, has no impact on the evolution of Al3(Sc,Zr) precipitates nor on the recrystallization status, though it causes a refinement of α-Al(Mn,Fe)Si dispersoids and thus leads to a higher final yield strength. The extraordinary high-temperature stability of cold-rolled thin sheets, obtained by the alloy and process design in this study, can be effectively utilized for many light-weight applications of AA3xxx Al alloys.

Background: The main objective of the current study was to investigate on the cryopreservation of protoscoleces of Echinococcus granulosus, a causative agent of cystic hydatidosis in man. Methods: This study was conducted on isolated protoscoleces from hydatid cysts infected livers collected from slaughterhouse of Tehran, Iran in 2016. Viability of protoscoleces was evaluated by dye test. Cryopreservation of isolated protoscoleces in the presence of Dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) and glycerol using a three-step cooling protocol involving an initial period at -20 °C, -80 °C and liquid nitrogen was performed. Results: The mean viability rate of 10% DMSO and 15% glycerol were 9% and 8% respectively. The protoscoleces of Echinococcus granulosus have been successfully thawed and recovered after 6 months storage in liquid nitrogen. Conclusion: Cryopreservation method needs to be improved for each species of helminthes and can be useful for other immunological and laboratorial studies.

The non-equilibrium phase evolution during laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) of AlSi10Mg alloy is thoroughly characterized and analyzed by means of advanced electron microscopy and analytical simulation of rapid solidification phenomenon. The evolution of microstructural strengthening agents such as inter-cellular eutectic phase and intra-cellular precipitates is presented in correspondence with the local variation of cellular/dendritic solidification patterns within a typical melt pool. The eutectic phase exhibits two different morphologies: lamellar and fibrous. As with the cell size variation, the overall volume fraction of eutectic phase and the lamella spacing is shown to gradually decrease by moving away from the melt-pool boundary (MPB), i.e., through crossing over from a coarse to a fine cellular zone. The eutectic-free regions within the α-Al cells contain a large number density of nano-sized precipitates that are predominantly Si-rich and are either fully or semi-coherent with the Al matrix. The formation of nano-precipitates is linked to the increased (non-equilibrium) solubility limits of α-Al cells due to the rapid solidification effect. For the first time, we identify such nano-precipitates with non-equilibrium crystal structures and morphologies: “Spheres” and “Ellipsoids” with Face Centered Cubic (FCC), and “Plates” and “Needles” with a Diamond Cubic (DC) superlattice structure that emerges from within the Al matrix. The microstructure in the heat-affected zone (HAZ) right underneath the MPB exhibits an absence of cell boundaries and eutectic phases while consisting primarily of large Si-rich and Mg-rich precipitates. Finally, the local variation of nano-hardness across a solidified melt pool is shown to correlate well with the corresponding profile of microstructural refinement, i.e., exhibiting a minimum at the HAZ and a peak at around the melt-pool centerline. The findings here can significantly advance the state of knowledge for the strengthening behavior in an as-built LPBF-processed AlSi10Mg alloy.

A hot-swaged/annealed CrCoNi medium-entropy alloy (MEA) was surface-treated by pulsed laser at two different powers (400 and 200 W). Microstructural characteristics of the laser-modified zo...

A high-purity Ti sheet was treated by laser surface alloying (LSA) with Cr at two different powers (100 and 200 W), with microstructural features in various laser-modified zones characterized by energy-dispersive spectrometry, electron channeling contrast imaging, and electron backscatter diffraction techniques. Hardness variation induced by the LSA was also examined and correlated with these microstructural features. Results show that at both laser powers there are two modification zones with distinct microstructural characteristics: (i) melted zone (MZ) near the surface, composed of martensitic α plates supersaturated with Cr and dense nanotwins inside them; (ii) heat-affected zone (HAZ) beneath the MZ, featured by irregular-shaped grains and substructures with varied sizes and little Cr in their interiors. Hardness measurements show that remarkable hardness increase (~ 2.5 times that of the matrix) could occur in the MZ after the LSA treatments. This can be ascribed to combined contribution from grain refinement, the presence of abundant nanotwins, and solid solution of Cr. The subgrains in the HAZ, produced by dislocation recovery, have only marginal contribution to hardness increase. The hardness of the Ti(Cr)-200W specimen is slightly lower than that of the Ti(Cr)-100W specimen, which is related to the dilution of Cr and the reduced cooling rate associated with enlarged modification zone at higher power. After comparing with laser surface treatments without alloying, it is confirmed that the LSA with Cr in the present work is much more effective in hardening the surface of pure Ti.

Toxascaris leonina is an ascaridoid nematode of dogs and cats, this parasite affects the health of these animals. This study estimated the global prevalence of Ta. leonina infection in dogs and cats using random effects meta-analysis as well as subgroup, meta-regression and heterogeneity analyses. The data were stratified according to geographical region, the type of dogs and cats and environmental variables. A quantitative analysis of 135 published studies, involving 119,317 dogs and 25,364 cats, estimated prevalence rates of Ta. leonina in dogs and cats at 2.9% and 3.4%, respectively. Prevalence was highest in the Eastern Mediterranean region (7.2% for dogs and 10.0% for cats) and was significantly higher in stray dogs (7.0% vs. 1.5%) and stray cats (7.5% vs. 1.8%) than in pets. The findings indicate that, worldwide, ~26 million dogs and ~23 million cats are infected with Ta. leonina, these animals would shed substantial numbers of Ta. leonina eggs into the environment each year and might represent reservoirs of infection to other accidental or paratenic hosts. It is important that populations of dogs and cats as well as other canids and felids be monitored and dewormed for Ta. leonina and (other) zoonotic helminths.

Toxascaris leonina is an ascaridoid nematode of dogs and cats; this parasite affects the health of these animals. This study estimated the global prevalence of Ta. leonina infection in dogs and cats using random effects meta-analysis as well as subgroup, meta-regression and heterogeneity analyses. The data were stratified according to geographical region, the type of dogs and cats and environmental variables. A quantitative analysis of 135 published studies, involving 119,317 dogs and 25,364 cats, estimated prevalence rates of Ta. leonina in dogs and cats at 2.9% and 3.4%, respectively. Prevalence was highest in the Eastern Mediterranean region (7.2% for dogs and 10.0% for cats) and was significantly higher in stray dogs (7.0% vs. 1.5%) and stray cats (7.5% vs. 1.8%) than in pets. The findings indicate that, worldwide, ~26 million dogs and ~23 million cats are infected with Ta. leonina; these animals would shed substantial numbers of Ta. leonina eggs into the environment each year and might represent reservoirs of infection to other accidental or paratenic hosts. It is important that populations of dogs and cats as well as other canids and felids be monitored and dewormed for Ta. leonina and (other) zoonotic helminths.

Background: Nowadays, universities are not only the place for producing knowledge, but also they must take steps to adopt global standards in order to play their role in meeting social needs. This research was conducted with the aim of investigating the impact of university education globalization on entrepreneurship and Knowledge-Based companies and presenting the model. Materials and Methods: The present study is a descriptive-analytical type with two qualitative and quantitative phases. In the qualitative phase of the research, six experts and professionals related to the research topic selected by snowball sampling method were interviewed and the data obtained from these interviews was analyzed by using Strauss and Corbin's three-step coding method, and the related questionnaire was designed. In the quantitative phase, a researcher-made questionnaire was provided for 384 University professors of the universities of Medical Sciences of Ferdowsi, and Azad university of Mashhad, selected by stratified random sampling. Descriptive and inferential statistics and SPSS-19 and Smart PLS-3 software were used to analyze the data. Results: According to the research findings, 293 participants were men and almost half of them had a bachelor's degree. Also, the significance level for the relationship between the university educations globalization and entrepreneurship, the relationship between the university education globalization on the development of Knowledge-Based companies and, finally the relationship between entrepreneurship and the development of Knowledge-Based companies were reported less than 0.05, as a result of which it can be said that there is a significant relationship between these variables. Conclusion: Regarding the role of Knowledge-Based companies in the economic and scientific development of countries and the impact of universities on supporting these companies, it is suggested that universities, by approximating themselves to the global criteria, play their role in advancing this route.

In the present work, efficient Solution-processed green light-emitting diodes based on a phosphorescent emitter with wide bandgap host are reported. A maximum efficiency of 25 cd/A was obtained using the green emitter tris[2-(p-tolyl)pyridine]iridium(III) blended with diphenyl-4-triphenylsilylphenyl-phosphine oxide as the emission layer. The maximum luminance exceeded 10,000 cd/m2, indicating that by simply blending a wide bandgap host with a phosphorescent emitter, efficient electroluminescence with a simplified device structure can be obtained.

Background Neglected parasitic diseases (NTDs) like cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) have caused high mortality and morbidity rate in developing countries. This disease is considered as one of the six major tropical diseases, and has a great importance in HIV infected individuals as an opportunistic infection in those areas that both infections are endemic. This study evaluated the therapeutic effects of the Urtica dioica L (U. dioica) aqueous extract as an anti-leishmanial herbal drug in-vitro and in-vivo, and in addition to that, evaluated two vital immune system cytokines including gamma interferon (IFN-γ) and interleukin-4 (IL-4) plus nitric oxide (NO) and arginase activity against Leishmania major (L. major) infected mice. Methodology/Principal findings In-vitro anti-leishmanial activity of U. dioica aqueous extract was determined using MTT method and also Parasite Rescue Transformation Assay. Also, the footpad lesion size and parasite load in BALB/c mice infected with L. major were quantified for in-vivo assessment. Furthermore, for evaluating the immune responses, the levels of IFN-γ, IL-4, NO and arginase were measured in the BALB/c mice. These results indicated that U. dioica extract significantly reduced the L. major promastigotes viability. According to the in-vitro cytotoxicity assay of the extract on Leishmania parasites (CC50) and infected macrophages (EC50), the extract had no toxicity to the macrophages, however it efficiently killed the L. major amastigotes. In addition, the lesion size, parasite load, IL-4, and ARG were decreased in the treated infected mice, however IFN-γ and NO were significantly increased. Conclusions/Significance This study established satisfactory results in Leishmania parasite clearing both in-vivo and in-vitro. Therefore, U. dioica extract can be considered as an effective and harmless herbal compound for killing the parasite without toxicity to the host macrophages. Furthermore, it also can treat the CL by switching the mouse immune response towards a cell-mediated response (Th1); hence, it may be identified as a perfect therapeutic herbal drug for CL treatment., Author summary Nowadays, neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) like leishmaniasis have increased the mortality and morbidity rate in developing countries, especially in tropical regions, and is considered as responsible for more than 20 million deaths per year. Although, cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) is rapidly spreading in all over the world, but this disease controlling has remained insufficient because of low-cost treatment and the lack of an effective vaccine. Therefore, new treatment approaches for leishmaniasis are immediately required. Up to now, application of natural herbal products has been considered as one of the major effective ways in treating the protozoan parasitic infections like CL. In this study, we evaluated the therapeutic effects of the Urtica dioica L (U. dioica) aqueous extract as an anti-leishmanial herbal drug in-vitro and in-vivo, and also quantified the immune cytokines IFN-γ, IL-4 against CL caused by Leishmania major (L. major). The in-vitro activity of U. dioica aqueous extract on L. major was determined using MTT method and Parasite Rescue Transformation Assay. Moreover, the footpad lesion size was assessed and parasite load in the mice infected with L. major was quantified for in-vivo. In order to evaluate the immune responses, IFN-γ, IL-4, NO and arginase were measured in the Leishmania infected mice. Accordingly, U. dioica is one of the effective herbal plant in L. major parasite clearing without any harmful toxicity to the murine cells, and can strongly cure the zoonotic CL.

Treatment of Al-Cu-Mg alloy was performed by friction stir spot processing (FSSP). Parametric analysis on the microstructure modification by employing tool rotation speed (ω) and pin dwell-time (t) was performed on several samples processed in air and underwater. It was demonstrated that ω.t could better elucidate the stir zone refinement. Microscopy inspections pointed to the formation of a wide variety in the morphological and size evolution of second-phase particles in the air-treated samples as opposed to uniformly refined spherical particles in the underwater specimens.

A comprehensive analysis of solidification patterns and microstructural development is presented for an Al10SiMg sample produced by Laser Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF). Utilizing a novel scanning strategy that involves counter-clockwise rotation of the scan vector by 67° upon completion of each layer, a relatively randomized cusp-like pattern of protruding/overlapping scan tracks has been produced along the build direction. We show that such a distribution of scan tracks, as well as enhancing densification during LPBF, reduces the overall crystallographic texture in the sample, as opposed to those normally achieved by commonly-used bidirectional or island-based scanning regimes with 90° rotation. It is shown that, under directional solidification conditions present in LPBF, the grain structure is strictly columnar throughout the sample and that the grains' orientation aligns well with that of the α-Al cells. The size evolution of cells and grains within the melt pools, however, is shown to follow opposite patterns. The cells'/grains' size distribution and texture in the sample are explained via use of analytical models of cellular solidification as well as the overall heat flow direction and local solidification conditions in relation to the LPBF processing conditions. Such a knowledge of the mechanisms upon which microstructural features evolve throughout a complex solidification process is critical for process optimization and control of mechanical properties in LPBF.

We have already established that a short cationic peptide (CM11) has high antimicrobial activity against a number of bacterial pathogens. Considering the untreatable problem of burn infections caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Acinetobacter baumannii, this study evaluated and compared antibacterial effects of the CM11 peptide and 1% silver-doped bioactive glass (AgBG) against extensively drug-resistant strains of these bacteria which were isolated from burn patients. Accordingly, the bacteria were isolated from burn patients and their antibiotic resistance patterns and mechanisms were fully determined. The isolated bacterial from patients were resistant to almost all commonly used antibiotics and silver treatment. The isolates acquired their resistance through inactivation of their porin, the overexpression of efflux pump, and beta-lactamase. CM11 peptide and 1% AgBG had minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of ≥ 16 μg ml−1 and ≥ 4 mg ml−1 for clinical isolates, respectively. The minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of peptide and 1% AgBG for resistant bacteria was ≥ 32 μg ml−1 and ≥ 4 mg ml−1, respectively. Among the clinical isolates, two P. aeruginosa isolates and one A. baumannii isolate were resistant to 1% AgBG disk. The CM11 peptide also showed high biocompatibility in vivo and no cytotoxicity against fibroblasts and adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells in concentrations ≤ 64 μg ml−1 and ≤ 32 μg ml−1, respectively, while the safe concentration of 1% AgBG for these cells was ≤ 16 μg ml−1. In conclusion, these findings indicated that the 1% silver is not safe and effective for treatment of such infections. The data suggest that CM11 peptide therapy is a reliable and safe strategy that can be used for the treatment of burn infections caused by antimicrobial-resistant isolates. The next stage of the study will be a multicenter clinical trial.

Objective We evaluated the effect of melatonin, as a potent antioxidant agent, on glutathione (GSH) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, as well as histone H3 lysine 9 (H3K9), and H4 lysine 12 (H4K12) acetylation when added to oocytes culture medium. Materials and Methods In this experimental study, two in vitro and in vivo groups were used. In the in vitro group, cumulus oocyte complexes (COCs) from the ovaries of B6D2F1 mice were cultured in maturation medium containing two doses of melatonin (10-9 and 10-6 M) and without melatonin [control group treated with dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO)] for 22-24 hour. The cumulus expansion and nuclear status were monitored by an inverted microscope. Next, COCs were isolated from the oviducts of superovulated mice and studied as the in vivo group. In in vitro and in vivo matured oocytes, GSH and ROS levels were assessed by monochlorobimane (MCB) and 2-7-dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate (H2DCFDA) staining, respectively. Changes in histone acetylation were examined by immunofluorescent staining with specific antibodies against acetylated H3K9 and H4K12. Results The H4K12 acetylation and ROS levels were significantly higher in the oocytes matured in the in vitro group compared to the in vivo group (P

Efficient organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) can be obtained using multilayered architectures where the processes of charge injection, transport and recombination are separated and optimized in each layer. Processing these structures from solution requires strategies to avoid redissolution or damage of the previously deposited layers. Several reports have demonstrated the development of cross-linkable hole transport materials, while less literature describes the synthesis and applications of such wide bandgap host materials for multilayered OLEDs. In this work we introduce a cross-linkable derivative of 9-(4-(10-phenylanthracene-9-yl)phenyl)-9H-carbazole incorporating styrene moieties (SPhPC) which can be efficiently cross-linked via radical polymerization. We present the synthesis and characterization of SPhPC, as well as its application as the host in the light-emitting layer to prove the concept of solution processed blue OLEDs.

A processing route is devised to enhance the precipitate strengthening in a continuous-cast/cold-rolled Al-3Mg-0.36Sc-0.14Zr alloy. Retaining sufficient Sc in the solid solution due to a higher cooling rate in a belt-caster, the thin as-cast slab also exhibits a fine-grained, uniformly equiaxed grain structure throughout the thickness. In the absence of any homogenization/solutionising treatment, the cold-rolled sheets are heat treated to produce precipitation either during an intermediate or a final age-hardening treatment. It is shown that the Al 3 Sc precipitates are considerably more effective in strengthening if precipitation occurs between the cold-roll passes, i.e. through an intermediate anneal process, as opposed to an age-hardening treatment at the final gauge. The strengthening mechanism is suggested to be precipitate-induced work hardening through a hybrid shearable/non-shearable interaction between the coherent Al 3 Sc precipitates and the moving dislocations. Such interactive deformation conditions create a uniform precipitate/dislocation network across the microstructure, as opposed to a heterogeneous slip structure developed in the absence of precipitates. The processing concept developed here enables one to further maximize the strength for a given Sc content in the alloy, thus not only lowering the overall need for Sc but also enabling potential higher-strength applications.

Background: Cystic echinococcosis (CE) is a zoonotic disease with global prevalence, which causes considerable health problems and economic losses throughout the world. The aim of this study was to assess the seroepidemiology of CE in Doroud City, Lorestan Province, Iran, considered a neglected endemic location. Methods: An ELISA was performed using recombinant AgB from Apr to Jul 2015 in Lorestan Province, Western Iran. The commercial Hydatidosis IgG ELISA kit (Vircell SL, Granada, Spain) was used to confirm the obtained results. Results: In the present study, out of 927 collected sera, 25 samples (2.6%) were found as seropositive for E. granulosus IgG antibodies. The prevalence of IgG antibodies against E. granulosus was significantly higher in rural areas (3.24%) than in urban area (1.20%) (P0.05). Moreover, there was no statistically significant difference between the prevalence of CE in males (13/349, 3.72%) and females (12/553, 2.12%). With regard to occupation, farmers and ranchmen had the highest rate of infection (5.5%). There was a significant association between eating unwashed vegetables and seropositivity (P

BACKGROUND Constitutional mismatch repair deficiency syndrome (CMMRD) is a severe cancer predisposition syndrome resulting in early onset central nervous system (CNS) and other cancers. International guidelines for surveillance exist but no study has systematically evaluated the efficacy of this protocol. METHODS We surveyed all confirmed CMMRD patients in the International Replication Repair Deficiency Consortium. A surveillance protocol consisting of frequent biochemical, endoscopic and imaging (CNS and total body MRI) studies were employed. Survival analyses and efficacy of each method were assessed. RESULTS Surveillance data were collected from 105 CMMRD individuals from 41 countries. Of the 193 malignant tumors, CNS malignancies were the most common (44%). The surveillance protocol uncovered 49 asymptomatic tumors including 16 glioblastomas and medulloblastomas. Five-year overall survival was 89% for tumors discovered by surveillance, and 61% for symptomatic tumors (p6 months as per protocol. Finally, of the low grade tumors identified asymptomatically, 5 were low grade gliomas. All of the low grade gliomas, which were not resected transformed to high grade tumors at a median of 1.6 ± 0.9 years. CONCLUSION These data support a survival benefit in CMMRD patients undergoing a surveillance protocol. Adherence to protocol and resection of lower grade lesions may improve survival for patients with CNS tumors.

Acute myeloid leukemia has a rare subtype in French-American-British classification as M7 or acute megakaryoblastic leukemia. Chromosome abnormalities in cases with acute megakaryoblastic leukemia can affect their prognosis. Evaluation of these abnormalities and their impact are not fully elucidated. This case presentation is about 16 months female who has a rare abnormality (trisomy 3) alongside acute megakaryoblastic leukemia. The remarkable point is that her malignancy is as primary or non-Down syndrome acute megakaryoblastic leukemia. The author's suggestion through this case presentation is the necessity of drawing a cytogenetic profile, especially in cases with acute megakaryoblastic leukemia for better treatment strategies.

Background Human toxocariasis is an important neglected disease. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis study to estimate the global and regional prevalence of anti-Toxocara serum antibodies (referred to as ‘T-seroprevalence’) in human populations around the world. Methods We searched five international databases (PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, SciELO and Scopus) for seroprevalence studies published from 1 January 1980 to 15 March 2019. We used random effect models to calculate the overall T-seroprevalence (with 95% CIs) in all six WHO regions and worldwide. We also conducted subgroup and linear meta-regression analyses to evaluate the impact of socio-demographic, geographical and climatic parameters on seroprevalence. Results We identified 250 eligible studies (253 datasets) comprising 265,327 participants in 71 countries for inclusion in the present meta-analysis. The estimated global T-seroprevalence rate was 19.0% (95%CI, 16.6–21.4%; 62,927/265,327); seroprevalence was highest in the African region (37.7%; 25.7–50.6%) and lowest in the Eastern Mediterranean region (8.2%; 5.1–12.0%). The pooled seroprevalence for other WHO regions was 34.1% (20.2–49.4%) in the South-East Asia; 24.2% (16.0–33.5%) in the Western Pacific; 22.8% (19.7–26.0%) in the American; and 10.5% (8.5–12.8%) in the European regions. A significantly higher T-seroprevalence was associated with a lower income level; lower human development index (HDI); lower latitude; higher humidity; higher temperature; and higher precipitation (P-value < 0.001). Potential risk factors associated with seropositivity to Toxocara included male gender; living in a rural area; young age; close contact with dogs, cats or soil; consumption of raw meat; and the drinking of untreated water. Conclusions The present findings indicate high levels of infection with, or exposure to Toxocara spp. in many countries, which calls for increased attention to human toxocariasis and improved measures to prevent adverse health risks of this disease., Author summary There have been many epidemiological studies on the seroprevalence of Toxocara infection or toxocariasis in humans in individual countries, but there has been no systematic review/meta-analysis to estimate the extent of Toxocara infection or exposure in human populations worldwide. By reviewing 250 studies of 265,327 people from 71 countries, we provide the first comprehensive global estimates of T-seroprevalence in humans to date. The findings indicate that almost one fifth (19%) of the world’s human population is seropositive to Toxocara. The highest seroprevalence rates were found in Africa (37.7%) and the lowest in the Eastern Mediterranean region (8.2%). Individual countries with high HDIs and high income levels usually had low T-seroprevalence rates. Our findings also showed that T-seroprevalence varies markedly among countries, according to geographical location (coordinates) and climatic features. Evidence from this study indicates that human toxocariasis is a prevalent, neglected tropical disease and potentially one of major importance to global public health. Our study emphasizes the need for governmental authorities to pay increased attention to the risks and socioeconomic impact of HT in many countries around the world, and for them to design and implement HT prevention or control programs, considering risk predictors identified here.

The importance of a thorough and systematic approach to parameter optimization in the laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) of AlSi10Mg alloy is demonstrated, particularly in the event of varying the physical attributes of the input powder (i.e., upon changing from one powder source to another). The proposed approach involves the effective use of prevalent energy density/enthalpy models complimented by an in-depth microstructural and mechanical characterization. Using a formulation derived from the functioning characteristics of a pulsed-wave laser system, a reliable volumetric energy density (VED) model is developed, from which a trend in VED-porosity relationship is identified. Particularly, it is shown that a multi-stage optimization through porosity minimization, followed by a microstructural screening step, can successfully result in achieving excellent tensile properties; In the first and second screening steps, using a VED/enthalpy approach, the as-built porosity content is correlated with VED, and then a number of optimized parameter sets are identified; In the third screening step, the number of potentially optimized parameter sets is reduced via a microstructural screening for the least amount of lack of fusion and lowest density of melt pool boundaries; In the fourth screening step, through tensile testing, the final parameter set representing the “best optimized” condition is identified (i.e., exhibiting an excellent combination of ultimate tensile strength and elongation-to-fracture of ~461 MPa and ~11.5%, respectively). Furthermore, it is demonstrated that the optimized VED value is a strong function of the physical attributes of the powder source, e.g., the particle morphology and size distribution (the effect of which will be thoroughly investigated in a separate study). The novel parameter optimization methodology described here represents a standard practice that can be potentially adopted in the LPBF processing of many metallic alloys.

We herewith introduce a 9-year-old boy presenting with leukocytosis, anemia and high lymphoblast count who had a pale complexion as well as weight loss.

Background: Contamination of water and soil through non-point sources such as road runoff causes environmental concern. The aim of this study is to determine the effect of Zanjan – Chavarzagh road on the total organic carbon (TOC) content of sediments in tributaries and the river that lead to Taham Lake. Methods: In tributaries and the river 69 soil and sediment samples were taken and the Total organic carbon (TOC) was measured according to Walkely-Black method. Also, Taham Dam Basin area and its hydrologic properties were calculated by Global Information System (GIS) software. Results: Results showed that, TOC concentration has a significant negative relationship with the distance from the lake. TOC in soil samples taken from hillside of the road had significantly lower mean and median concentration ( median= 3262 , mean = 4083 ± 3461 mg/kg) than the valley side ( median = 5324 , mean = 6178 ± 3980 mg/kg). The check dams across the tributaries and the river have not been effective in the reduction of TOC in sediments. Conclusion: Roads in the Taham Dam Basin, increases TOC content of soil and sediments in Taham dam basin. TOC moves toward Taham dam lake.

Soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infections are responsible for significant burden of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Consumption of raw vegetables without proper washing is one of the major routes of such infections. We evaluate the prevalence of STH contamination in commonly used vegetables in Mazandaran province, northern Iran. A total of 772 fresh raw vegetables were obtained from retail markets. Each sample was divided into two groups. One group was used as the unwashed sample and the second group was washed with standard washing procedures. Then, samples were examined for helminth eggs by using standard methods. Data analysis was performed using SPSS20. The overall prevalence of STHs was 14.89% (115/772). The rate of STH contamination was significantly higher in warm seasons (20.5%, 79/386) than in cold seasons (9.32%, 36/386) among the unwashed vegetables (OR=2.50; CI 95%=1.64-3.8; P

This study attempted to explore and analyse the indifference management trend in the Educational system of Iran. This objective was achieved through a qualitative approach and grounded theory. The population included all educational management professionals and experts who had at least two years of management experience. Twenty-four individuals were selected through purposive sampling based on theoretical data saturation. In order to collect research data, semi-structured interviews were adopted. Moreover, the results were evaluated through systematic analysis method based on open, core and selective coding. The findings suggested that the causal conditions affecting indifference management entail eight dimensions: job motivation, employee development, organisational culture, organisational climate, attitude and manager's performance, employee attitude, work environment and nature of work. Organisational culture, organisational climate and workplace conditions were the underlying factors of indifference management, while behaviour and performance of managers were mediating or confounding conditions, playing a dramatic role in indifference management.

Using Atom Probe Tomography (APT) and Phase Field Crystal ( PFC ) modelling, the early-stage precipitation phenomenon is investigated for naturally- and artificially-aged Al–Mg–Si alloys of two different Mg/Si ratios, i.e. 1 and 2. It is shown that, regardless of alloy composition and aging history, the earliest precipitates appear as finely-dispersed Si-rich clusters which gradually undergo a simultaneous coarsening and Mg-enrichment. In addition, the energetic factors for the instability of natural aging clusters are analysed. The energy analysis also suggests that the initial Si-enrichment of the earliest precipitates is due to the affinity of locally-strained areas for higher Si concentrations when achieving a meta-stable equilibrium with the strain-free surrounding matrix. The subsequent Mg-enrichment is shown to be energetically necessary for an evolving precipitate to survive and grow. The alloy with smaller Mg/Si ratio shows a delay in the onset of Mg-enrichment during natural aging, which is attributed to the higher average Si content, as well as the slow kinetics of diffusion at natural aging temperatures. It is shown that this alloy exhibits a smaller nucleation barrier and critical nucleus size as well. We suggest that the above described mechanisms govern the evolution of early-stage clustering in the common range of age-hardenable Al–Mg–Si alloy compositions.

One to five BN units have been embedded in corannulene at spoke location with two different orientation patterns. The effect of the number and orientation of BN units have been investigated employing the density functional theory (DFT). The BN-embedded corannulene structures show the significant changes in geometric structure, aromaticity and the first static hyperpolarizability (β0). The key role of BN orientation in bowl-shaped π-conjugated polyaromatic hydrocarbons with many BN units have been investigated for the first time. The aromaticity concept was evaluated employing NICS parameter. The bowl depth, dipole moment (μ) and β0 values have been obtained 0.0 A, 0.0 Debye, 1.9 au for 5BN structure and 1.612 A, 4.4 Debye, 963.6 au for 5NB structure. The HOMO-LUMO gap (HLG) value was reduced 11% for 5NB structure and increased 2% for 5BN structure. The average NICS(0) values increase in BN-orientation and decrease in NB-orientation structures. This work represents a new class of organic materials with appealing properties, which can indicate the importance of precise control of the BN substitution patterns in bowl-shaped π-conjugated polyaromatic hydrocarbons.