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Extended Abstract Background: The production of peanuts (Arachis hypogaea L.) as one of the vital industrial plants is affected by the environment, genotype, and their interaction. Therefore, the environment × genotype interaction on peanut yield should be evaluated before the introduction of cultivars. Evaluation of the genotype × environment interaction provides valuable information regarding the performance of plant cultivars in different environments. It plays a crucial role in evaluating the stability of the performance of breeding materials. This experiment evaluated the stability and yield of superior peanut genotypes in three regions of Guilan province, Iran, in the 2018 and 2019 crop years. Methods: In this study, the top 10 peanut genotypes (130, 140, 113, 115, 128, 176, 178, 192, 201, and 208 from ICRISAT) along with the NC2 variety as a control were assessed in a complete randomized block design trial with three replications across three regions Rasht, Masal, and Talash. Each plot comprised six lines, each with 5 m long, 50 cm row spacing, and 20 cm plant spacing. Upon reaching physiological ripeness, a 5-m2 area was harvested from the middle four rows of each plot after removing 0.5 m from both ends to eliminate marginal effects. The plant height (cm), average number of sub-branches per plant, number of pods per plant, and number of seeds per pod were randomly recorded and counted from 10 plants. After drying, biomass, pod, and seed yields were calculated in kg/ha. Following seed separation from the shell, five random samples of 100 seeds were taken from each plot to measure the 100 seed weight (HSW). Additionally, the length and width of peanut pods and seeds were recorded (in mm) using a digital caliper. To determine seed oil percentage, 150 g of peanut seeds were randomly selected from each plot, and their oil percentage was measured using the Soxhlet method after grinding the samples. Composite variance analysis was conducted after ensuring the uniformity of experimental error, and the mean traits were compared using the least significant difference (LSD) method. The stability of peanut genotypes was assessed using the GGE bi-plot analysis. Results: The variance analysis revealed that the interaction of location × genotype significantly affected the peanut plant's height, sub-branches, and pod diameter at a one percent probability level. Additionally, the year × location × genotype interaction significantly affected other traits such as pods per plant, seeds per pod, HSW, pod yield, seed yield, seed oil percentage, oil yield, shell yield, pod length, and peanut seed length and width at the 1% probability level. Notably, genotype 208 in the Rasht region exhibited the tallest average plant height (103.5 cm), which was not significantly different from line 201. Furthermore, the highest number of peanut pods (31.72 pieces) was observed for genotype 128 in the Rasht region in the first crop year, showing no significant difference with line 128 in the first and second crop years. Significant differences were also noted in the number of seeds per pod across different genotypes and regions. For instance, the second crop year in the Rasht region and genotype 113 yielded the highest peanut HSW (71.45 g), which was not significantly different from some lines in the two crop years in the Masal and Rasht regions. Furthermore, the pod yield of genotype 192 in the first crop year was superior in Rasht (5583 kg/ha), Masal (5233 kg/ha), and Talash (4166 kg/ha) regions compared to the other genotypes. Genotype 192 exhibited the highest seed yield (3777 kg/ha) in the first crop year in Rasht, representing a 133% increase compared to the control (NC2). These results underscore the significant influence of climatic conditions on peanut seed yield and the genetic potential variations among different genotypes in diverse regions. Additionally, genotype 192 in the first cropping year and Rasht region attained the highest peanut oil yield (1841 kg/ha), aligning with findings from other researchers regarding varying oil yields among different peanut lines. Conclusion: Based on the findings of this study, all traits measured in peanuts were impacted by the interaction of genotype and environment. Line 192 displayed significantly superior quantitative and qualitative performance of peanut seeds to the NC2 variety, known as the Goli native variety, and the other studied lines. The increase in the number of pods per plant, seeds per pod, and the peanut HSW were important agronomic indicators in improving the performance of line 192 in the Guilan region. The results indicated that the interaction effect of genotype and environment led to changes in the yield components, resulting in changes in the yield of peanut seeds and pods per unit area, with the oil yield increasing in parallel with the grain yield. Using the GGE bi-plot method to evaluate performance stability, peanut line 192 was identified as a high-yielding line with high performance and stability in all environments. Therefore, groundnut genotype 192 is recommended for achieving the highest seed yield in the region's climatic conditions.

Abstract The study aimed to determine the accuracy of diagnosing periodontal conditions using the developed web-based PocketPerio application and evaluate the user’s perspective on the use of PocketPerio. First, 22 third-year dental students (DS3) diagnosed ten cases without PocketPerio (control) and with PocketPerio (test) during a mock examination. Then, 105 DS3, 13 fourth-year dental students (DS4), and 32 senior second-year International Standing Program students (ISP2) used PocketPerio chairside. Statistical analysis was performed using a non-parametric paired two-tailed test of significance with the Wilcoxon matched-pairs signed rank test. The null hypothesis that PocketPerio did not increase the accuracy of periodontal diagnoses was rejected at α

BackgroundWe report follow-up data from an ongoing prospective cohort study of COVID-19 in pediatric kidney transplantation through the Improving Renal Outcomes Collaborative (IROC).MethodsPatient-level data from the IROC registry were combined with testing, indication, and outcomes data collected to describe the epidemiology of COVID testing, treatment, and clinical outcomes; determine the incidence of a positive COVID-19 test; describe rates of COVID-19 testing; and assess for clinical predictors of a positive COVID-19 test.ResultsFrom September 2020 to February 2021, 21 centers that care for 2690 patients submitted data from 648 COVID-19 tests on 465 patients. Most patients required supportive care only and were treated as outpatients, 16% experienced inpatient care, and 5% experienced intensive care. Allograft complications were rare, with acute kidney injury most common (7%). There was 1 case of respiratory failure and 1 death attributed to COVID-19. Twelve centers that care for 1730 patients submitted complete testing data on 351 patients. The incidence of COVID-19 among patients at these centers was 4%, whereas the incidence among tested patients was 19%. Risk factors to predict a positive COVID-19 test included age > 12 years, symptoms consistent with COVID-19, and close contact with a confirmed case of COVID-19.ConclusionsDespite the increase in testing and positive tests over this study period, the incidence of allograft loss or death related to COVID-19 remained extremely low, with allograft loss or death each occurring in

Abstract The Eurasian lynx (Lynx lynx) exhibits geographic variability and phylogenetic intraspecific relationships. Previous morphological studies have suggested the existence of multiple lynx subspecies, but recent genetic research has questioned this classification, particularly in Central Asia. In this study, we aimed to analyse the geographic and genetic variation in Central Asian lynx populations, particularly the Turkestan lynx and Altai lynx populations, using morphometric data and mtDNA sequences to contribute to their taxonomic classification. The comparative analysis of morphometric data revealed limited clinal variability between lynx samples from the Altai and Tien Shan regions. By examining mtDNA fragments (control region and cytochrome b) obtained from Kazakhstani lynx populations, two subspecies were identified: L. l. isabellinus (represented by a unique haplotype of the South clade, H46) and L. l. wrangeli (represented by haplotypes H36, H45, and H47 of the East clade). L. l. isabellinus was recognized only in Tien Shan Mountain, while Altai lynx was likely identical to L. l. wrangeli and found in northern Kazakhstan, Altai Mountain, Saur and Tarbagatai Mountains, and Tien Shan Mountain. The morphological and mtDNA evidence presented in this study, although limited in sample size and number of genetic markers, renders the differentiation of the two subspecies challenging. Further sampling and compilation of whole-genome sequencing data are necessary to confirm whether the proposed subspecies warrant taxonomic standing.

Introduction Substance abuse in women has an increasing trend in all socio-economic classes. In addition to the fetal consequences, this problem has many other economic and social consequences as well.This study aimed to determine the prevalence of substance abuse and its related factors in pregnant women. Materials and MethodsThis descriptive cross-sectional study was performed employing a self-administered valid questionnaire on 587 pregnant women in Kerman, Iran who referred to public health centers and private offices to receive prenatal care. Participants were recruited from January to February 2020 using a multistage sampling method.ResultsThe most prevalent substances used during pregnancy (current use) were waterpipe (8.5%), opium (2.6%), and alcohol (1.7%).Substance abuse in first-degree relatives was a very strong correlate of substance abuse in pregnant women (OR = 7.26). The low level of education of pregnant women's husbands was also a strong predictor of substance abuse in pregnant women. (OR = 3.15).ConclusionSince substance abuse by family members was the strongest correlate of drug abuse during pregnancy, family-based interventions should be tailored to address early detection of such vulnerable women and necessary counseling services.

ObjectivesFentanyl is a highly potent opioid and has, until recently, been considered an unwanted contaminant in the street drug supply among people who use drugs (PWUD). However, it has become a drug of choice for an increasing number of individuals. This systematic review evaluated intentional non-medical fentanyl use among PWUD, specifically by summarizing demographic variance, reasons for use, and resulting patterns of use.MethodsThe search strategy was developed with a combination of free text keywords and MeSH and non-MeSH keywords, and adapted with database-specific filters to Ovid MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, and PsychINFO. Studies included were human studies with intentional use of non-medical fentanyl or analogues in individuals older than 13. Only peer-reviewed original articles available in English were included.ResultsThe search resulted in 4437 studies after de-duplication, of which 132 were selected for full-text review. Out of 41 papers included, it was found that individuals who use fentanyl intentionally were more likely to be young, male, and White. They were also more likely to have experienced overdoses, and report injection drug use. There is evidence that fentanyl seeking behaviours are motivated by greater potency, delay of withdrawal, lower cost, and greater availability.ConclusionsAmong PWUD, individuals who intentionally use fentanyl have severe substance use patterns, precarious living situations, and extensive overdose history. In response to the increasing number of individuals who use fentanyl, alternative treatment approaches need to be developed for more effective management of withdrawal and opioid use disorder.Systematic review registrationhttps://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, identifier CRD42021272111.

IntroductionAdvances in the field of genetic testing have spurred its use in transplantation. Potential benefits of genetic testing in transplant nephrology include diagnosis, treatment, risk stratification of recurrent disease, and risk stratification in potential donors. However, it is unclear how to best apply genetic testing in this population to maximize its yield. We describe our transplant center's approach to selective genetic testing as part of kidney transplant candidate and donor evaluation.MethodsTransplant recipient candidates were tested if they had a history of ESRD at age

Abstract Background The purpose of this study is to describe a patient who experienced simultaneous central retinal vein and cilioretinal artery occlusions, as well as perifoveal hemorrhage in the Henle fiber. Case presentation A 67-year-old Iranian woman presented with a 3-day history of reduced vision in her left eye. Venous tortuosity and retinal hemorrhage were observed in the retina, together with whitened regions around the fovea, consistent with the diagnosis of central retinal vein occlusion in conjunction with cilioretinal artery occlusion. In structural and en face optical coherence tomography, star-shaped hemorrhages were observed around the fovea, which looked hyperreflective in the Henle fiber layer. Conclusions We present a case of central retinal vein occlusion exacerbated by cilioretinal occlusion and hemorrhage in the Henle fiber layer. The hemorrhage is most likely the result of increased intraluminal pressure in the deep capillary plexus.

There are limited data on the impact of COVID-19 in children with a kidney transplant (KT). We conducted a prospective cohort study through the Improving Renal Outcomes Collaborative (IROC) to collect clinical outcome data about COVID-19 in pediatric KT patients. Twenty-two IROC centers that care for 2732 patients submitted testing and outcomes data for 281 patients tested for SARS-CoV-2 by PCR. Testing indications included symptoms and/or potential exposures to COVID-19 (N = 134, 47.7%) and/or testing per hospital policy (N = 154, 54.8%). Overall, 24 (8.5%) patients tested positive, of which 15 (63%) were symptomatic. Of the COVID-19-positive patients, 16 were managed as outpatients, six received non-ICU inpatient care and two were admitted to the ICU. There were no episodes of respiratory failure, allograft loss, or death associated with COVID-19. To estimate incidence, subanalysis was performed for 13 centers that care for 1686 patients that submitted all negative and positive COVID-19 results. Of the 229 tested patients at these 13 centers, 10 (5 asymptomatic) patients tested positive, yielding an overall incidence of 0.6% and an incidence among tested patients of 4.4%. Pediatric KT patients in the United States had a low estimated incidence of COVID-19 disease and excellent short-term outcomes.

Claudin proteins constitute the backbone of tight junctions (TJs) regulating paracellular permeability for solutes and water. The molecular mechanism of claudin polymerization and paracellular channel formation is unclear. However, a joined double-rows architecture of claudin strands has been supported by experimental and modeling data. Here, we compared two variants of this architectural model for the related but functionally distinct cation channel-forming claudin-10b and claudin-15: tetrameric-locked-barrel vs octameric-interlocked-barrels model. Homology modeling and molecular dynamics simulations of double-membrane embedded dodecamers indicate that claudin-10b and claudin-15 share the same joined double-rows architecture of TJ-strands. For both, the results indicate octameric-interlocked-barrels: Sidewise unsealed tetrameric pore scaffolds interlocked with adjacent pores via the β1β2 loop of the extracellular segment (ECS) 1. This loop mediates hydrophobic clustering and, together with ECS2, cis- and trans-interaction between claudins of the adjacent tetrameric pore scaffolds. In addition, the β1β2 loop contributes to lining of the ion conduction pathway. The charge-distribution along the pore differs between claudin-10b and claudin-15 and is suggested to be a key determinant for the cation- and water permeabilities that differ between the two claudins. In the claudin-10b simulations, similar as for claudin-15, the conserved D56 in the pore center is the main cation interaction site. In contrast to claudin-15 channels, the claudin-10b-specific D36, K64 and E153 are suggested to cause jamming of cations that prevents efficient water passage. In sum, we provide novel mechanistic information about polymerization of classic claudins, formation of embedded channels and thus regulation of paracellular transport across epithelia.

Abstract To compare the functional and anatomical outcome of fluorescein angiography (FA) versus indocyanine green angiography (ICGA) guided photodynamic therapy (PDT) in the treatment of non-resolving central serous chorioretinopathy (CSCR). In this prospective interventional case series, all patients with non-resolving CSCR, defined as persistent SRF involving subfoveal area for at least three months, were nonrandomly assigned to receive either FA or ICGA-guided half dose PDT. Baseline and 4 months post-treatment data including best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), the status of foveal subretinal fluid, subfoveal choroidal thickness, choroidal vascularity index, pigment epithelial detachment area, treatment and PDT spot numbers were collected. Thirty-six eyes were included; 24 received ICGA-guided and 12 received FA-guided PDT. Overall, improvement in BCVA and choroidal parameters were observed in all patients. There was no significant difference in baseline parameters as well as follow-up measurements between groups. However, the mean total energy dose and spot number in the IGCA-guided PDT were significantly higher than the FA-guided PDT group (P = 0.001). Both FA-guided and ICGA-guided half-dose PDT were effective in the treatment of non-resolving CSCR, with favorable functional and anatomical outcome. In FA group, PDT with smaller spot sizes and fewer numbers of spots were applied.

Objectives Social participation is a determining factor for promoting health and well-being. This study aims to investigate the factors facilitating and inhibiting the social participation of the elderly in Kerman, Iran based on their health-promoting behaviors. Methods & Materials This cross-sectional study was conducted on 276 elderly people over 60 years old in Kerman city in 2020. They completed a demographic from, the questionnaire of social participation based on the Canadian Community Health Survey, and the questionnaire of health- promoting behaviors. Descriptive statistics and statistical tests including univariate and multivariate regression were used for data analysis. Data were analyzed in SPSS software, version 26, and P

Abstract In this article we study a constant-roll inflationary model in the context of the DGP brane-world cosmology caused by a quintessence scalar field. We determine an analytical solution for the Friedman equation coupled to the equation of motion of the scaler field. The evolution of the primordial scalar and tensor perturbations is also studied. To check the viability of the model we use numerical approaches and plot some figures. Our results for the scalar spectral index and the tensor to scaler ratio show good consistency with observations for given values of model parameters.

Abstract Background To evaluate the additive effect of topical or sub-tenon injection of interferon (IFN)-α 2b in the treatment of refractory diabetic macular edema. Methods In this prospective study patients with center-involved DME who were unresponsive to 3 monthly consecutive IVB injections were recruited. Patients were divided into three groups: group1, received IFN- α 2b topical drop at a dose of 1mIU/ml four times a day for 3 months. Group 2, received a single sub-tenon injection of 1mIU/ml IFN- α 2b at the enrollment. Group 3 received artificial tears four times a day for 3 months (control group). All groups received three consecutive monthly IVB injections and were evaluated monthly up to 1 month following the last IVB injection. Results In this study, 59 eyes of 35 patients with refractory DME were assessed. The final follow-up showed that although CMT decreased in all groups, only patients in Group 2 had statistically significant lower CMT compared to their baseline values (change in CMT: − 117 ± 213 µm; p-value = 0.025). Comparison of CMT changes between three groups showed no statistically significant difference, although it was higher in group 2 (change in CMT: − 117 ± 213 µm (Group2) vs. − 49 ± 173 (Group 1) vs. − 36 ± 86 (Group 3); p-value = 0.085). Considering eyes with baseline CMT > 400 µm, sub-tenon injection of IFN α2b led to a significant reduction of CMT at the first month and final follow-up visit (CMT change: − 166 ± 210, − 145 ± 231 µm; p-value = 0.018 and 0.035, respectively). In this subgroup, eyes in Group 2 had lower CMT at the first month following treatment in comparison with the control group (CMT: 444 ± 123 µm vs. 544 ± 96 µm, p-value = 0.042). Alterations of CDVA were not statistically significant among groups, although patients in Group 1 had a significant improvement in vision at second and last follow up (CDVA change: − 0.23 ± 0.39, − 0.20 ± 0.43 logMAR; p-value = 0.030 and 0.010, respectively). Conclusions In short term, Sub-tenon injection of IFN might have an additive anatomical effect in eyes with refractory DME. Validation of this observation requires further prospective controlled studies.