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Language classroom anxiety is a significant concern for applied linguists and English language teachers. As an affective variable, foreign language anxiety has the potential to harm learners' language learning and performance. While the impact of language anxiety on the academic achievement of learners of English as a foreign language (EFL) has been extensively studied, little research has investigated the coping strategies of teachers to address learners' anxiety. This study aimed to explore such EFL teacher strategies in online English language classes, using a qualitative phenomenological research approach. The study involved in‐depth interviews with 20 teachers selected through theoretical sampling. The researchers used thematic analysis to analyze the interview data. The results revealed three factors that emerged from 24 identified coping strategies: creating a safe environment for EFL learners, utilizing learners' first language (L1), and engaging learners in classroom activities. These findings have theoretical and practical significance for teachers, educators, and administrators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Resveratrol (RSV), as a natural polyphenol exhibiting antioxidative properties, is studied in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. However, RSV has low oral bioavailability. In this study and in order to overcome the issue, RSV was encapsulated into the solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs). In this study, RSV‐loaded solid lipid nanoparticles (RSV‐SLNs) were prepared by the solvent emulsification‐evaporation technique, and their physicochemical properties were optimized using Box–Behnken response surface methodology. The morphology of the particles was evaluated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The neuroprotective effects of the nanoparticles were investigated in animal models using the Morris water maze (MWM). Then after, the rats were sacrificed, their brains were collected, and the extent of lipid peroxidase (LPO) as well as the level of reduced glutathione (GSH) were determined in the hippocampus section samples. Finally, the collected brain tissues were histologically studied. The particle size, polydispersity index (PDI), zeta potential, entrapment efficiency (EE%), and drug loading (DL%) of the optimized nanoparticles were 104.5 ± 12.3 nm, 0.322 ± 0.11, −3.1 ± 0.15 mV, 72.9 ± 5.31% and 14.6 ± 0.53%, respectively. The microscopic images revealed spherically shaped and nonaggregated nanoparticles. The in vivo studies demonstrated higher efficiency of RSV‐SLN in the reduction of escape latency time and improvement in the time spent in the target quadrant compared to free RSV. Moreover, it was demonstrated that RSV‐SLN posed a higher potency in the reduction of LPO as well as elevation of the GSH levels in the brain samples. The histological studies revealed a decline in neural degeneration and an improvement in the CA1 pyramidal cell morphology. The obtained data revealed that RSV‐SLNs caused more reduction in Alzheimer‐related symptoms rather than free RSV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Despite extensive research on the use of low‐power lasers for TMD treatment, the extent of their effectiveness remains uncertain. Objective: This study aimed to investigate the therapeutic or placebo effect of LLLT for TMD, and to compare it with standard treatment methods. A unique aspect of this study was the inclusion of a control group that received only standard treatment, allowing for an assessment of the placebo effect of LLLT. Methods: A total of 42 patients with TMD were referred to Kerman Dental School Pain Clinic and were randomly assigned to three groups: group A received LLLT, group B was a placebo group and group C was a control group that received only standard treatment. The laser groups received gallium‐aluminium‐arsenide laser treatment twice a week for 10 sessions. Patients' jaw movement rate indicators and VAS index were evaluated at the start of treatment, and indicators were re‐recorded every week for 5 weeks. SPSS 21 was used for statistical analysis, including ANOVA and Tukey's post hoc tests for inter‐group comparisons. The repeated measurement test was used to analyse the data. Results: All groups showed significant improvement in VAS indicators (p =.0001), lateral jaw movements (p =.0001), forward jaw movement (p =.007) but not for maximum mouth opening. No significant difference was observed between the groups at the end of the study (p =.000). Conclusion: Our study provides insights into LLLT's effectiveness for TMD, suggesting it cannot replace standard treatment alone. These findings contribute to the literature and emphasise the importance of including a control group in future studies to assess the placebo effect of LLLT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Growth differentiation factor 11 (GDF11), also known as bone morphogenetic protein 11 (BMP11), has been identified as a key player in various biological processes, including embryonic development, aging, metabolic disorders and cancers. GDF11 has also emerged as a critical component in liver development, injury and fibrosis. However, the effects of GDF11 on liver physiology and pathology have been a subject of debate among researchers due to conflicting reported outcomes. While some studies suggest that GDF11 has anti‐aging properties, others have documented its senescence‐inducing effects. Similarly, while GDF11 has been implicated in exacerbating liver injury, it has also been shown to have the potential to reduce liver fibrosis. In this narrative review, we present a comprehensive report of recent evidence elucidating the diverse roles of GDF11 in liver development, hepatic injury, regeneration and associated diseases such as non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), liver fibrosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. We also explore the therapeutic potential of GDF11 in managing various liver pathologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hippocampal synaptic dysfunction, oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, and neuronal loss play critical roles in the pathophysiology of diabetes‐associated cognitive decline (DACD). The study aimed to investigate the effects of vanillic acid (VA), a phenolic compound, against DACD and explore the potential underlying mechanisms. Following confirmation of diabetes, rats were treated with VA (50 mg/kg/day; P.O.) or insulin (6 IU/rat/day; S.C.) for 8 consecutive weeks. The cognitive performance of the rats was evaluated using passive‐avoidance and water‐maze tasks. Long‐term potentiation (LTP) was induced at hippocampal dentate gyrus (DG) synapses in response to high‐frequency stimulation (HFS) applied to the perforant pathway (PP) to evaluate synaptic plasticity. Oxidative stress factors, inflammatory markers, and histological changes were evaluated in the rat hippocampus. This study showed that streptozotocin (STZ)‐induced diabetes caused cognitive decline that was associated with inhibition of LTP induction, suppression of enzymatic antioxidant activities, enhanced lipid peroxidation, elevated levels of inflammatory proteins, and neuronal loss. Interestingly, chronic treatment with VA alleviated blood glucose levels, improved cognitive decline, ameliorated LTP impairment, modulated oxidative‐antioxidative status, inhibited inflammatory response, and prevented neuronal loss in diabetic rats at a level comparable to insulin therapy. The results suggest that the antihyperglycemic, antioxidative, anti‐inflammatory, and neuroplastic properties of VA may be the mechanisms behind its neuroprotective effect against DACD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vaccination for monkeypox prevention in persons with high-risk sexual behaviours to control on-going outbreak of monkeypox virus clade 3. It is important to consider patients as infectious from the beginning of the prodrome or rash until the scabs fall off.[[8]] The preferred diagnostic test for identifying a person with suspected active Mpox infection is to examine samples taken from a skin lesion using molecular tests such as polymerase chain reaction.[[8], [10]] To effectively treat Mpox, it is necessary to develop medications with specific viral targets.[6] Antiviral medications for Mpox treatment have not yet received official approval.[11] Considering the number of reported Mpox mortalities and the severity of Mpox in some patients, immunocompromised individuals, and pregnant women, the study of antiviral therapies should continue to be an option.[11] This review attempts to summarize the preventive approaches and current applicable treatment options against Mpox infection. Keywords: drug interactions; monkeypox; prevention; treatment; viral infection EN drug interactions monkeypox prevention treatment viral infection 659 666 8 07/04/23 20230701 NES 230701 Monkeypox (Mpox) virus was first observed in cynomolgus monkeys kept for research in Denmark in 1958,[1] and Mpox in humans was first determined in Central Africa in 1970 with clinical similarities and different epidemiology to smallpox.[2] Throughout history, the Mpox virus has caused several outbreaks, the most recent of which occurred in endemic and nonendemic regions around the world in 2022.[[3]] Mpox virus, with a double-stranded DNA genome, belongs to the Poxviridae family, the Chordopoxvirinae subfamily, and the genus I Orthopoxvirus i (OPXV).[5] Two genetically different Mpox viral strains (clades) have been discovered, one in Central Africa and the other in West Africa. Anti-Monkeypox Infection Approaches: From Prevention to Therapeutic Lines. [Extracted from the article]

Layered pseudo‐2D perovskites are new and emerging candidates for optoelectronic applications, exhibiting excellent physical properties and very high stability compared to bulk perovskite structures. Herein, two synthesized inorganic layered perovskites with Ruddlesden–Popper phase Cs2XI2Cl2 (X = Pb, Sn) are investigated. The optoelectronic properties of these structures are calculated using density‐functional theory (DFT). In addition, single junction solar cells and a Cs2PbI2Cl2/Cs2SnI2Cl2 tandem cell, are investigated using the finite‐difference time‐domain method and drift‐diffusion model. The optimal absorption coefficient and suitable bandgap for solar cells are indicated by the results obtained from DFT. Based on the deformation potential theory, the ultrahigh charge‐carrier mobility of 104 order are predicted for these structures, which is much higher than the mobility of 3D known organic perovskites. Remarkable power conversion efficiencies of 24.09% and 21.94% for Cs2SnI2Cl2 and Cs2PbI2Cl2 solar cells, respectively, are shown in the calculated results, which are among highest reported efficiencies for layered perovskite solar cells. Also, the simulated tandem cell achieves a high open‐circuit voltage (Voc) of 1.68 V, which is higher than the Voc of single‐junction cells. The high potential of inorganic layered perovskites in optoelectronic devices with excellent efficiency and long‐term stability is implied by the obtained results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The multi‐country outbreak of monkeypox virus (MPXV) infection, while the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic is still an ongoing issue, has caused a new challenge. The re‐emergence of MPXV and the rising incidence in non‐endemic countries is turning into an upcoming threat to global health. Hence, rapid identification of the virus with appropriate methodology with the lowest false results plays a critical role in estimating the global extent of the crisis and providing preventive measures. This review summarised the main applicable strategies for primary detection and confirmation of MPXV and highlighted available data in biosafety, requirements, standard operating procedures, specimen collection, transportation and storage of clinical samples, and waste disposal of the viral agent. Also, various assays including molecular techniques, immunoassays, histopathological methods, electron microscopy, genomic sequencing, and cell culture have been illustrated. Moreover, we reflected on current knowledge of the advantages and disadvantages of each approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human astroviruses (HAstVs) have frequently been detected in individuals with acute gastroenteritis (AGE). However, a precise estimate of the overall prevalence of the virus in children with AGE as well as the possible association of the virus with gastrointestinal complications is not available up to now. The present study estimated the overall prevalence of HAstVs in children with gastrointestinal complications as well as the association between the virus and symptoms. We systematically searched four international databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google scholar) to find studies on the prevalence of HAstVs in people with AGE published between Jan 2000 and Sep 2021. Analysis of the 223 included studies presented a 4.2% (95% CI 3.8%–4.8%) prevalence of the virus in AGE individuals. Based on case‐control studies, a significant association between these viruses and AGE was detected (OR: 2.059, 95% CI; 1.438–2.949). HAstV‐1 and HAstV‐VA‐2 is the most and least common genotypes in the AGE patients, respectively (59.0%, 95% CI: 52.1%–65.6% vs. 4.9%, 95% CI: 2.6%–9.1%). Due to the statistically significant association between HAstV and gastrointestinal complications, more attention should be paid to these viruses in people with AGE and more studies should employ case‐control design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Sapovirus (SaV) is an emerging cause of children gastrointestinal complications such as acute gastroenteritis (AGE). The aim of the present systematic review and meta‐analysis was to estimate the global prevalence of the SaV in children and association of infection with SaVs and AGE in children based on case–control studies. Four international databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Sciences and Google Scholar) were used to retrieve English‐language studies published between January 2000 and December 2020. Comprehensive Meta‐Analysis software was applied to estimate the overall prevalence, publication bias and heterogeneity index. The pooled prevalence of SaV infection among children with gastroenteritis was 3.4% [95% confidence interval (CI): 2.9%–3.9%] based on a random‐effects meta‐analysis. Genogroup I was the dominant genogroup of SaV in children with gastroenteritis [2.2% (95% CI: 1.6%–3.0%)], association analysis showed that SaV was associated with gastroenteritis [OR: 1.843 (95% CI: 1.27–2.66)]. Given the significant prevalence of the virus in children, it is necessary to pay more attention to this situation. Therefore, preventive health measures in children should be a priority. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Since the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2), our understanding regarding the pathophysiology and clinical manifestations of this disease have been improving. However, we still have limited data on long‐term effects and lingering symptoms of post COVID‐19 recovery. Despite predilection of COVID‐19 for lungs, multiple extra‐pulmonary manifestations appear in multiple organs and biological systems and with continued infection and recovery worldwide. It is necessary that clinicians provide patients with previous SARS‐CoV‐2 infection with expectations of long‐term effects during or after recovery from COVID‐19. Herein, we review the long‐term impact of COVID‐19 on different organ systems reported from different clinical studies. Understanding risk factors and signs and symptoms of long‐term consequences after recovery from COVID‐19 will allow for proper follow‐up and management of the disease post recovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a type of horizontal curve, the reverse horizontal curves (RHCs) are one of the most critical types of road locations where many accidents occur due to slippage resulting from the centrifugal force of the vehicles. These crashes can increase dramatically if the RHC is combined with a longitudinal slope (downgrade or upgrade). In this study, by using the vehicle dynamic modeling (VDM) method, the lateral acceleration of vehicles (including E-Class Sedan, E-Class SUV, and Truck) passing through the RHC combined with three scenarios of downgrades, upgrades, and no slope was evaluated. Finally, in order to present the final model, the RHC lateral acceleration model was presented based on the effective parameters, including different design velocities (V), the direct distance between two horizontal curves (D), and different longitudinal slopes (G) by the multiple regression model method. The results of the VDM modeling showed that the slide potential of Sedans, SUVs, and Trucks when crossing the RHC combined with the downgrade was more significant than the upgrade and the no-slope paths. On the other hand, the modeling results showed that the proposed models for Sedans and SUVs with a very high level of importance (R2 = 0.920 and R2 = 0.967) could be used to assess the safety of vehicles crossing the RHC. According to the mentioned models, increasing the speed (V) and reducing the direct distance (D) in both models reduced the lateral acceleration (increased safety) of both Sedans and SUVs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose. To report on the efficacy of early pars plana vitrectomy (PPV), silicone oil (SO) tamponade, and intravitreal ganciclovir injection in the treatment of a case with progressive outer retinal necrosis (PORN). Case Presentation. A 33-year-old man with a history of shingles on the chest skin 2.5 months ago presented with progressive vision loss in both eyes over the past 20 days. Fundus examination revealed retinal necrosis with perivascular clearance. Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection was confirmed by western blot analysis. Treatment with intravenous acyclovir and intravitreal ganciclovir injections was unable to stop the progression of retinitis. Along with highly active antiretroviral therapy, the patient underwent PPV with SO tamponade and intravitreal ganciclovir injection in both eyes. A few days after surgery, retinal lesions started to improve. Conclusion. Early PPV, SO tamponade, and intravitreal ganciclovir injection may be considered an effective intervention in PORN patients with an unfavorable response to medical treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: As a health problem, obesity has several risk factors; it has been suggested that human adenovirus type 36 (HAdV‐36) infections may possibly be associated with obesity. This updated meta‐analysis was designed and conducted with an emphasis on articles published from 2015 to 2020. The PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus databases were searched up to 1 December 2020. Overall, pooled prevalence and odds ratio of antibodies against HAdV‐36 in people with obesity and controls was assessed among different ages. Case‐control and cohort studies were included in the analysis. The overall prevalence of HAdV‐36 infection in obese population was 31% (CI: 0.24%–0.38%) which was 32% in cases and 27% in controls, respectively; a significant association was found between the cases and the controls (OR, 1.84; 95% CI, 1.39–2.43), especially in children younger than 18 years of age (OR, 2.44; 95% CI, 1.85–3.22). A significant association between adenovirus infection and obesity was found, especially in adolescents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Essential oil was extracted from Pistaciaatlantica subsp. kurdica hulls and encapsulated in chitosan nanoparticles (NPs) by an emulsion‐ionic gelation method. A desirable retention rate (43.3–61.5%) of P. atlantica subsp. kurdica hulls' essential oil (PAHEO) encapsulated in chitosan NPs was confirmed. In addition, the Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and X‐ray diffraction analysis results revealed the success of PAHEO encapsulation. The formed NPs illustrated a shrunk and spherical shape with a size range of 187.2–632.5 nm as indicated by scanning electron microscopy and dynamic light scattering. The encapsulated PAHEO had a high antifungal activity against Botrytiscinerea under both the invitro and invivo conditions. It also significantly decreased the incidence and disease severity of grey mould on strawberries during storage. The spoilage process was postponed by the 8th days of storage at 4 °C in the strawberry fruit treated by PAHEO‐incorporated chitosan NPs. These findings imply that NP‐encapsulated PAHEO will have promising novel applications in food industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: In a large‐scale study, 128176 non‐pregnant patients (228 studies) and 10000 pregnant patients (121 studies) confirmed COVID‐19 cases included in this Meta‐Analysis. The mean (confidence interval [CI]) of age and gestational age of admission (GA) in pregnant women was 33 (28–37) years old and 36 (34–37) weeks, respectively. Pregnant women show the same manifestations of COVID‐19 as non‐pregnant adult patients. Fever (pregnant: 75.5%; non‐pregnant: 74%) and cough (pregnant: 48.5%; non‐pregnant: 53.5%) are the most common symptoms in both groups followed by myalgia (26.5%) and chill (25%) in pregnant and dysgeusia (27%) and fatigue (26.5%) in non‐pregnant patients. Pregnant women are less probable to show cough (odds ratio [OR] 0.7; 95% CI 0.67–0.75), fatigue (OR: 0.58; CI: 0.54–0.61), sore throat (OR: 0.66; CI: 0.61–0.7), headache (OR: 0.55; CI: 0.55–0.58) and diarrhea (OR: 0.46; CI: 0.4–0.51) than non‐pregnant adult patients. The most common imaging found in pregnant women is ground‐glass opacity (57%) and in non‐pregnant patients is consolidation (76%). Pregnant women have higher proportion of leukocytosis (27% vs. 14%), thrombocytopenia (18% vs. 12.5%) and have lower proportion of raised C‐reactive protein (52% vs. 81%) compared with non‐pregnant patients. Leucopenia and lymphopenia are almost the same in both groups. The most common comorbidity in pregnant patients is diabetes (18%) and in non‐pregnant patients is hypertension (21%). Case fatality rate (CFR) of non‐pregnant hospitalized patients is 6.4% (4.4–8.5), and mortality due to all‐cause for pregnant patients is 11.3% (9.6–13.3). Regarding the complications of pregnancy, postpartum hemorrhage (54.5% [7–94]), caesarean delivery (48% [42–54]), preterm labor (25% [4–74]) and preterm birth (21% [12–34]) are in turn the most prevalent complications. Comparing the pregnancy outcomes show that caesarean delivery (OR: 3; CI: 2–5), low birth weight (LBW) (OR: 9; CI: 2.4–30) and preterm birth (OR: 2.5; CI: 1.5–3.5) are more probable in pregnant woman with COVID‐19 than pregnant women without COVID‐19. The most prevalent neonatal complications are neonatal intensive care unit admission (43% [2–96]), fetal distress (30% [12–58]) and LBW (25% [16–37]). The rate of vertical transmission is 5.3% (1.3–16), and the rate of positive SARS‐CoV‐2 test for neonates born to mothers with COVID‐19 is 8% (4–16). Overall, pregnant patients present with the similar clinical characteristics of COVID‐19 when compared with the general population, but they may be more asymptomatic. Higher odds of caesarean delivery, LBW and preterm birth among pregnant patients with COVID‐19 suggest a possible association between COVID‐19 infection and pregnancy complications. Low risk of vertical transmission is present, and SARS‐CoV‐2 can be detected in all conception products, particularly placenta and breast milk. Interpretations of these results should be done cautiously due to the heterogeneity between studies; however, we believe our findings can guide the prenatal and postnatal considerations for COVID‐19 pregnant patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Angular cracks are one of the types of cracks in asphalt mixtures that can be created due to the location of coarse aggregates as well as the weakness of the soft asphalt matrix (SAM). In this study, pure mode I was modeled to simulate the fracture behavior of hot mix asphalt (HMA) mixture containing angular cracks using the extended finite element method (XFEM). To improve HMA performance, calcium lignosulfonates (CL) additive and polyester fiber (PE), which were both environmentally and economically justifiable, were used. Numerical and experimental results showed that the proposed samples in both pure mode I (angular crack) and pure mode II (vertical crack) were able to model the fracture behavior of HMA; therefore, it can be used as suitable samples to study the pure mode crack deformation of HMA at low and intermediate temperatures. Also, the presence of coarse aggregate in the ligament section of the samples turned out to be an important factor in increasing fracture energy, fracture toughness, and reducing brittleness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the commonest primary malignant brain tumor and has a remarkably weak prognosis. According to the aggressive form of GBM, understanding the accurate molecular mechanism associated with GBM pathogenesis is essential. Growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF‐15) belongs to transforming growth factor‐β superfamily with important roles to control biological processes. It affects cancer growth and progression, drug resistance, and metastasis. It also can promote stemness in many cancers, and also can stress reactions control, bone generation, hematopoietic growth, adipose tissue performance, and body growth, and contributes to cardiovascular disorders. The role GDF‐15 to develop and progress cancer is complicated and remains unclear. GDF‐15 possesses tumor suppressor properties, as well as an oncogenic effect. GDF‐15 antitumorigenic and protumorigenic impacts on tumor development are linked to the cancer type and stage. However, the GDF‐15 signaling and mechanism have not yet been completely identified because of no recognized cognate receptor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. The aim is to report an atypical presentation of ocular toxoplasmosis which led to the diagnosis of Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS). Case Report. The 38-year-old woman was referred with metamorphopsia and reduced vision in the right eye over the past 3 weeks. Slit-lamp examination revealed granulomatous keratic precipitates (KPs), 2+ cells in the anterior chamber, and posterior synechiae. Fundus examination was remarkable for a white patch surrounding a scar, inferonasal to the optic disc with fibrous bands emanating from the lesion, and the retina around this region was detached with considerable extension towards the periphery, while no breaks could be appreciated. She mentioned anorexia and losing 10 kg in the past three months, and signs of anemia like paleness of face skin, bed nails, and bilateral angular cheilitis were observed on systemic evaluation. The results of the patient's complete blood count revealed anemia and leukopenia and CD4 lymphocytes: 79 cells/μL. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) for HIV antibodies came back positive which was later confirmed with the Western blot test. Brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed multiple ring-enhancing lesions in both cerebral cortices. The patient underwent antitoxoplasmosis and anti-HIV treatment and serous retinal detachment completely resolved. Conclusion. This report highlights the fact that sometimes, the eyes are the site of the first presentation of a systemic life-threatening condition and emphasizes the role of ophthalmologists in such cases. In cases of atypical presentation, appropriate laboratory tests and CNS imaging should be requested. Systemic treatment with antitoxoplasmosis regimens and highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) is mandatory in AIDS patients with ocular toxoplasmosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: We compared clinical symptoms, laboratory findings, radiographic signs and outcomes of COVID‐19 and influenza to identify unique features. Depending on the heterogeneity test, we used either random or fixed‐effect models to analyse the appropriateness of the pooled results. Overall, 540 articles included in this study; 75,164 cases of COVID‐19 (157 studies), 113,818 influenza type A (251 studies) and 9266 influenza type B patients (47 studies) were included. Runny nose, dyspnoea, sore throat and rhinorrhoea were less frequent symptoms in COVID‐19 cases (14%, 15%, 11.5% and 9.5%, respectively) in comparison to influenza type A (70%, 45.5%, 49% and 44.5%, respectively) and type B (74%, 33%, 38% and 49%, respectively). Most of the patients with COVID‐19 had abnormal chest radiology (84%, p < 0.001) in comparison to influenza type A (57%, p < 0.001) and B (33%, p < 0.001). The incubation period in COVID‐19 (6.4 days estimated) was longer than influenza type A (3.4 days). Likewise, the duration of hospitalization in COVID‐19 patients (14 days) was longer than influenza type A (6.5 days) and influenza type B (6.7 days). Case fatality rate of hospitalized patients in COVID‐19 (6.5%, p < 0.001), influenza type A (6%, p < 0.001) and influenza type B was 3%(p < 0.001). The results showed that COVID‐19 and influenza had many differences in clinical manifestations and radiographic findings. Due to the lack of effective medication or vaccine for COVID‐19, timely detection of this viral infection and distinguishing from influenza are very important. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Grid side converters of renewable power plants have to be capable of dealing with severe grid disturbances, such as, grid faults and voltage sags. Model‐based predictive control provides outstanding performance to grid side converters: fast dynamic response, good tracking error and high‐quality currents. However, choosing the best set of vectors for the modulation requires assessing all the possible combinations of vectors using a cost function, which is very time consuming. Thus, the modulation is normally carried out with only 1 or 2 vectors per PWM period to save computing time, but this turns the modulation non‐linear. This lack of linearity makes it impossible to use symmetrical components in unbalanced grids. A linear multi‐vector model‐based predictive control that controls the power of both sequences using a sole cost function and analyses the effect of the transient response of several sequence decomposition systems on the model‐based predictive control predictions and dynamic response is proposed. Moreover, the proposed multi‐vector provides low THD currents while keeping the computing time low. In addition, the paper addresses the extrapolation of the proposed multi‐vector model‐based predictive control to N‐level converters. The good performance obtained is supported by the results obtained in simulations and the laboratory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, graphene oxide was modified during consecutive functionalization steps with 1,4‐diphenylamine, cyanuric chloride, and ethylenediamine. Then, star‐shaped CuO nanoparticles were synthesized on modified graphene oxide using the seed‐mediated growth method in which nucleation, growth stages, and reduction of graphene oxide to graphene occurred simultaneously. After ensuring successful synthesis of CuO nanoparticles and to facilitate recycling, a magnetization process was utilized by adding iron oxide nanoparticles. This nanocomposite was characterized by transmission electron microscopy, X‐ray powder diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The prepared heterogeneous catalyst was investigated for the reduction of organic dyes in the presence of NaBH4 as a reducing reagent. The kinetic data obtained for the reduction of methyl orange (MO), methylene blue (MB), 4‐nitrophenol (4‐NP), and rhodamine 6G (Rh6G) were fitted to first‐order rate equations, and the calculated rate constants for the reduction of MO, MB, 4‐NP and Rh6G were as follows: −0.091, −0.071, −0.045, and 0.040, respectively. As star‐shaped CuO nanoparticles showed a higher antibacterial effect compared to spherical‐shaped CuO nanoparticles, the antibacterial activity of star‐shaped CuO nanoparticles immobilized on magnetic functionalized graphene was evaluated against Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative bacteria through an agar well diffusion assay and demonstrated more antibacterial activity against gram‐positive bacteria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The operation and maintenance activity of off‐shore wind turbines (WTs) increases the cost of the generated energy. Although significant efforts have been made to improve the reliability of the mechanical subassemblies, electrical and electronic subassemblies fail more frequently, causing undesirable downtimes and loss of revenues. Since off‐shore WTs and wave energy converters (WECs) share the electrical and electronic subassemblies, the reliability of WECs is expected to be affected by the same causes. This study presents a robust model predictive control for a WEC consisting of an oscillating water column (OWC) installed in a point absorber. The control system is capable of dealing with open switch faults in one or two insulated‐gate bipolar transistors of the same arm in any of the voltage source converters (VSCs), or even in both VSCs at the same time. The system allows the OWC WEC to generate energy, although under certain restrictions, thereby reducing the urgency of repair and loss of revenues. The performance of the proposed approach is tested for several cases of open switch faults, experimentally in the laboratory using an OWC WEC emulator. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent reports indicated that curcumin had beneficial effects in animal models of liver injury and cirrhosis. Current study aimed to investigate the effects of curcumin supplementation in patients with liver cirrhosis. In this randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial, 70 patients with liver cirrhosis aged 20-70 years were randomly divided into two groups to receive 1,000 mg/day curcumin (n = 35) or placebo (n = 35) for 3 months. Model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) (i), MELD, MELD-Na, and Child-Pugh scores were used to assess the severity of cirrhosis. Sixty patients (29 in the curcumin group and 31 in the placebo group) completed the study. MELD(i) (15.55 ± 3.78 to 12.41 ± 3.07), MELD (15.31 ± 3.07 to 12.03 ± 2.79), MELD-Na (15.97 ± 4.02 to 13.55 ± 3.51), and Child-Pugh (7.17 ± 1.54 to 6.72 ± 1.31) scores decreased significantly in the curcumin group after 3-month intervention (p < .001, p < .001, p = .001, and p = .051, respectively), whereas they increased significantly in the placebo group (p < .001, p < .001, p < .001, p = .001, respectively). Significant differences were only observed between the two groups in MELD(i), MELD, MELD-Na, and Child-Pugh scores after 3-month intervention (p < .001 for all of them). In this pilot study, beneficial effects of curcumin supplementation were observed in decreasing disease activity scores and severity of cirrhosis in patients with cirrhosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Modular Multilevel Converters (MMC) are traditionally used in high‐power applications although their field of application has lately widened to lower powers. In medium and low‐power applications such as electric drives, a fast control system is usually required and model‐based predictive control approaches (MPC) are highly suitable to obtain superior performance. Unfortunately, although MPC is widely used with two‐level three‐phase power converters, typically in motor and generator control applications, it has been barely developed for MMC. Recent studies discuss MPC approaches for MMC but they are primarily focused on improving the internal operation of MMC. In contrast, this paper presents an MPC which is designed to control the torque and the magnetic field of a surface permanent magnet synchronous generator (SPMSG) by means of an MMC. The proposed approach features a new and fast method to find the location of the reference voltage vector among the large number of multilevel vectors present in typical MMCs. The performance of the new control system has been demonstrated for an oscillating water column (OWC) based power plant simulation. The control system stands out for its fast response, low THD currents and reasonably low computing time which enables its easy implementation in microcontrollers (MCU). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phase-locked loops (PLLs) are well known tools for synchronisation and measurement of the fundamental parameters of power grid signals. Signals measured in the electrical industry may contain disturbances such as harmonic distortion, dc offset, noise and unbalanced conditions which destroy the pure sinusoidal form of signals. The present study improves the trade-off between PLL disturbance-rejection capability and dynamic-response speed. An improved PLL is proposed based on frequency and initial-phase-angle detectors (FIPD) and moving average filter for measurement of the signal parameters in both single-phase and three-phase applications. The proposed PLL is called improved FIPD-based PLL (IFIPPLL) and provides satisfactory disturbance rejection and response time. The proposed structure effectively decreases the estimation error. Simulation and experimental results show the superiority of IFIP-PLL over conventional PLLs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In spite of strong commitment of humanitarian and development communities with the protection of our planet, expressed through the Sustainable Development Goals in the Agenda 2030, environmental sustainability still remains an overlooked aspect in humanitarian supply chains (HSCs). Using a collaborative mixed‐methods research with an international humanitarian organization, this paper sheds light on the causes of unsustainable operations in HSCs and investigates the impact of regional hubs on the environmental sustainability. First, an in‐depth focus group was conducted involving the organization's employees and the research team to identify the main causes contributing to unsustainable HSC in the organization. Five categories of causes were identified, namely, supply chain configuration (SCC), transportation, donors, material and waste, and humanitarian specificities. Then, based on respondents' prioritization, SCC was selected as the most important category. Carbon footprinting for three SCC scenarios was conducted: the current SCC and two conceptual SCC with two hubs in East and West Africa with different replenishment windows. The results reveal that the SCCs with hubs outperform the current SCC in terms of carbon footprint. Finally, the challenges of implementing the conceptual SCCs and possible solutions to address them were discussed through follow‐up individual interviews. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Purpose: FGF21 has emerged as a therapeutic strategy for treating type 2 diabetes mellitus due to its antidiabetic effects, and this has led to the development of long-acting analogues of FGF21. However, these compounds have some limitations, including a need to be administered by s.c. injection and their prolonged pharmacodynamic effect compared with native FGF21, which might be responsible for their reported side effects.Experimental Approach: We have previously demonstrated that i.p. administration of haem-regulated eukaryotic translation initiation factor 2α kinase (HRI) activators increases hepatic and circulating levels of FGF21. In this study, we examined the effects of p.o. administration of a new HRI activator, EPB-53, on high-fat diet (HFD)-induced glucose intolerance, hepatic steatosis, and hypertriglyceridaemia, and compared them with those of metformin.Key Results: EPB-53 administration for the last 2 weeks, to mice fed a HFD for 10 weeks, reduced body weight gain, improved glucose intolerance, and prevented hepatic steatosis and hypertriglyceridaemia, whereas metformin only ameliorated glucose intolerance. Moreover, EPB-53, similar to the reported effects of FGF21, reduced lipogenesis in cultured human hepatocytes and in the liver of mice fed a HFD. Administration of EPB-53 to Fgf21-knockout mice had no effects, demonstrating that its efficacy is dependent on this hormone.Conclusions and Implications: Overall, the findings of this study demonstrate that p.o. administration of HRI activators, by increasing FGF21, is a promising strategy for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dear Editor, We read with great interest an article from Li et al1 describing "The Neuroinvasive Potential of SARS-CoV2 May Play a Role in the Respiratory Failure of COVID-19 Patients." We speculate that infection as a miscellaneous cause of SAH had taken place, based on previous data that showed infection triggers SAH.2 DISCUSSION Pediatric COVID-19 appeared with mild symptoms3 with severe complications of COVID-19 less frequent than adults.4 However, the clinical course and complications related to the COVID-19 in children are still unclear. Thus, patients with blood-type O might have protection against severe COVID-19.12 However, patients with blood group type A, as the patient described in this report, might be more predisposed to severe infection. [Extracted from the article]

ABSTRACT Chlorpyrifos (CPF) is the most commonly used organophosphorus insecticide which causes neurodevelopmental toxicity. So far, animals have been used as ideal models for neurotoxicity studies, but working with animals is very expensive, laborious, and ethically challenging. This has encouraged researchers to seek alternatives. During recent years, several studies have reported successful differentiation of embryonic and adult stem cells to neurons. This has provided an excellent model for neurotoxicologic studies. In this study, neural differentiation of mouse adipose tissue-derived stem cells (ADSCs) was used as an in vitro model for investigation of CPF neurotoxicity. For this purpose, mouse ADSCs were cultured in a medium containing knockout serum replacement and were treated with different concentrations of CPF at several stages of differentiation. Cytotoxic effect of CPF and the expression of neuron-specific genes and proteins were studied in the differentiating ADSCs. Furthermore, the activity of acetylcholinesterase was assessed by Ellman assay at different stages of differentiation. This study showed that up to 500 μM CPF did not alter viability of the undifferentiated ADSCs, whereas viability of the differentiating cells decreased with 500 μM CPF. CPF upregulated the expression of some neuron-specific genes and seemed to decrease the number of β-tubulin III and MAP2 proteins-expressing cells. There was no detectable acetylcholine esterase activity in differentiated ADSCs. In summary, it was shown that CPF treatment can decrease the viability of ADSC-derived neurons and dysregulate the expression of some neuronal markers through acetylcholinesterase-independent mechanisms. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol 31: 1510-1519, 2016. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose. To compare subfoveal choroidal, central retinal, and peripapillary nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness after panretinal photocoagulation (PRP) with red and green laser in diabetic patients. Study Design. Randomized clinical trial. Methods. A total of 50 patients with bilateral proliferative diabetic retinopathy and no diabetic macular edema underwent PRP. One eye was randomly assigned to red or green laser. Subfoveal choroidal, central retinal, and RNFL thicknesses were evaluated at baseline and 6 weeks after treatment. Results. The mean subfoveal choroidal, central retinal, and peripapillary nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness increased significantly in each eye 6 weeks after PRP (P values in red laser group: <0.01, 0.03, and <0.01, resp., and in green laser group <0.01, <0.01, and <0.01). There was no difference between red and green laser considering subfoveal choroidal, central retinal, and peripapillary nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness increase after PRP (P values: 0.184, 0.404, and 0.726, resp.). Conclusion. Both red and green lasers increased mean subfoveal choroidal, central retinal, and peripapillary nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness significantly 6 weeks after PRP, but there is no difference between these two modalities in this regard. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a simple and robust direct current control based predictive approach for rotor side converter (RSC) of the doubly fed induction generator (DFIG), which operates at a constant switching frequency and has a fast dynamic response. First, sector of required rotor voltage vector is predicted in this strategy, and according to this predicted sector, two active vectors and two zero vectors are elected in each switching period. Derivatives of rotor current in the synchronous frame are determined for each predicted voltage vector in every period. These derivatives are used to compute the duration of the vectors in such a way that the current error at the end of the switching period gets minimized. The accuracy of the proposed control strategy under variation of rotor speed is evaluated in Matlab/Simulink environment for a 2 MW DFIG. Moreover, the impact of parameter variations on the system is examined for this suggested technique. Furthermore, the dynamic response and stator current total harmonic distortion (THD) of proposed strategy is compared with traditional vector control (VC), direct power control (DPC) and predictive direct power control (PDPC) methods. Finally, the performance of the proposed method is evaluated under disturbance voltage. The results demonstrate that suggested control technique has the lowest stator current THD and operates perfectly near the synchronous speed and under grid voltage dip. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was carried out to assess and compare the efficacy of tacrolimus and clobetasol in the treatment of oral lichen planus ( OLP). The Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, PubMed, Scopus, Science Direct, Springer Journals, and Elsevier databases were searched using specific keywords relevant to the research question for articles published from 1998 to December 31, 2012. Finally, 15 articles that assessed the effects of tacrolimus, clobetasol, and pimecrolimus on improvements in OLP were reviewed. In addition, a meta-analysis of odds ratios ( ORs) was carried out for data in 10 of the 15 articles. The results showed that the ORs for improvements in OLP in patients taking clobetasol or tacrolimus, compared with those taking placebo or other drugs, were 1.19 and 8.00, respectively. It appears that topical tacrolimus is an effective alternative to topical clobetasol and may be considered as a first-line therapy in the management of OLP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human keratinocytes could be used in the repair of damaged skin, in tissue engineering applications, gene therapy and recently, the generation of iPS cells. We isolated human keratinocytes from foreskin and subsequently cultured them on fibronectin, collagen type I, gelatin and laminin-coated dishes that contained three different types of serum-free medium (epilife, KSM or CnT). We developed improved conditions for efficient transfection of these human keratinocytes by testing three common transfection methods and a GFP plasmid vector. The isolated cells showed typical keratinocyte morphology and expressed the epithelial cell specific antigen, cytokeratin 14. Collagen type 1, epilife medium and lipofectamin 2000 gave the best results for isolation and transfection of human keratinocytes. Our protocol can be used as a reproducible, simple and efficient method for isolation, cultivation and genetic manipulation of human keratinocytes, which may be useful in cell and gene therapy applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The oxidation of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT) to 1,3,5-trinitrobenzene (TNB) in one step, 2,4,6-trinitrobenzoic acid (TNBA), and 2,4,6-trinitrobenzaldehyde (TNBAl) with an ozone-oxygen mixture in different solvents, catalysts, and temperatures has been investigated. Reducing the number of steps in the oxidation of TNT to TNB is the major advantage of this procedure with respect to conventional processes such as chromic acid and potassium permanganate. The oxidation of TNT to TNB was completed in one step as compared to two steps in the conventional approach. The products were obtained with relatively good yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Antiepileptic drug (AED) intoxications are common due in part to wide clinical application and availability. Because AEDs usually depress central nervous system function, overdosing may be potentially life-threatening or lead to a range of adverse outcomes. The aim of this study was to identify risk factors for nonbenzodiazepine AED (NBAED) intoxication. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, all consecutive adult and adolescent (>12 years old) poisoned patients who presented to the Loghman-Hakim Poison Hospital (LHPH) during a 6-month period were evaluated. Patients with NBAED intoxication were identified and compared to a control group of those other pharmaceutical intoxications. The risk factors for AED intoxication were identified using univariate analyses and multivariate modeling. Results: Among 9,809 cases of pharmaceutical agent overdose, there were 474 cases (4.8%) with NBAED intoxication. Mean age of the subjects was 24.5 ± 8.9 years. The most frequent NBAED was carbamazepine (n = 117), followed by phenobarbital (n = 77) and sodium valproate (n = 51). The most frequent motivation was intentional intoxication (95.3%). Multivariate analysis revealed that presence of medical disorders, a history of psychological events, and loneliness were associated with AED intoxication, whereas educational level had a protective effect. There was no association between previous history of parasuicide, sex, age, occupation status, and AED intoxication. Discussion: In conclusion, this study showed that the majority of AED intoxications are due to deliberate self poisoning. The presence of psychological events, medical disorders, and loneliness are risk factors for AED intoxication, whereas higher education level has a protective effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]