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Abstract Background Today, the human population faces an increasing array of emerging environmental challenges. Despite its importance, nurses often neglect ecological issues, which can compromise patient health. While the ecological nursing perspective has the potential to lead to innovative care approaches that benefit patients, the nursing profession, and the environment, the concept of ecological care lacks a clear definition and its dimensions remain unclear. This study aimed to analyze and clarify the concept of ‘ecological care’ in the nursing discipline. Methods Walker and Avant’s analysis method was used to identify descriptions, antecedents, consequences, and empirical referents of the concept of ‘ecological care’ in nursing. We searched the databases (PubMed, Scopus, PsycINFO, CINAHL, ERIC, SID, and IranDoc) using the keywords “ecological,” “nurse,” and “nursing” using Boolean operators “AND” and “OR” in the title and abstract fields both in English and Persian to identify relevant literature on ecological care in nursing. Results Ecological care, as a multidimensional concept, encompasses ecological thinking, ecological attitude, ecological awareness, ecological sensitivity, and ecological literacy. This entails the optimal utilization of environmental factors to provide patients with high-quality care and preserve ecological sustainability through environmentally friendly behaviors. Conclusions The findings highlight the need to elucidate, endorse, and solidify ecological thinking in all aspects of nursing care including nursing management, education, and research, which can lead to improved care quality, patient safety, and sustainability. Within this framework, nursing educators could play an essential role in integrating ecological care into nursing education. The study emphasizes the need to integrate ecological thinking into all aspects of nursing.

Abstract Background This meta-analysis aims to establish a more precise association between gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) incidence and H. pylori infection by amalgamating findings from prior case–control and cohort studies. Methods To identify relevant studies, we conducted a comprehensive search using the Excerpta Medica Database (Embase), PubMed (Medline), Web of Science (ISI), and Scopus from January 1990 to November 2022. The screening process involved reviewing the entire text, abstracts, and titles of retrieved articles. Subsequently, data extraction was performed from the selected articles, and their quality was assessed using the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale checklist. Version 17 of STATA software was utilized for the analysis, with relative risks (RR) calculated along with their 95% confidence intervals (CI) to quantify the impact of the included studies. Results This meta-analysis included eight observational and analytical studies. The combined risk of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) in pregnant women with H. pylori infection was found to be 1.97 times higher compared to pregnant women without infection (RR: 1.97; 95% CI 1.57–2.47; I2 = 0.00%; P = 0.84). Conclusion Pregnant women with H. pylori infection are at an increased risk of developing gestational diabetes.

Abstract The influenza virus (IFV) imposes a considerable health and economic burden globally, requiring a comprehensive understanding of its pathogenic mechanisms. Ferroptosis, an iron-dependent lipid peroxidation cell death pathway, holds unique implications for the antioxidant defense system, with possible contributions to inflammation. This exploration focuses on the dynamic interplay between ferroptosis and the host defense against viruses, emphasizing the influence of IFV infections on the activation of the ferroptosis pathway. IFV causes different types of cell death, including apoptosis, necrosis, and ferroptosis. IFV-induced ferroptotic cell death is mediated by alterations in iron homeostasis, intensifying the accumulation of reactive oxygen species and promoting lipid peroxidation. A comprehensive investigation into the mechanism of ferroptosis in viral infections, specifically IFV, has great potential to identify therapeutic strategies. This understanding may pave the way for the development of drugs using ferroptosis inhibitors, presenting an effective approach to suppress viral infections.

Abstract The need for intubation in methanol-poisoned patients, if not predicted in time, can lead to irreparable complications and even death. Artificial intelligence (AI) techniques like machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL) greatly aid in accurately predicting intubation needs for methanol-poisoned patients. So, our study aims to assess Explainable Artificial Intelligence (XAI) for predicting intubation necessity in methanol-poisoned patients, comparing deep learning and machine learning models. This study analyzed a dataset of 897 patient records from Loghman Hakim Hospital in Tehran, Iran, encompassing cases of methanol poisoning, including those requiring intubation (202 cases) and those not requiring it (695 cases). Eight established ML (SVM, XGB, DT, RF) and DL (DNN, FNN, LSTM, CNN) models were used. Techniques such as tenfold cross-validation and hyperparameter tuning were applied to prevent overfitting. The study also focused on interpretability through SHAP and LIME methods. Model performance was evaluated based on accuracy, specificity, sensitivity, F1-score, and ROC curve metrics. Among DL models, LSTM showed superior performance in accuracy (94.0%), sensitivity (99.0%), specificity (94.0%), and F1-score (97.0%). CNN led in ROC with 78.0%. For ML models, RF excelled in accuracy (97.0%) and specificity (100%), followed by XGB with sensitivity (99.37%), F1-score (98.27%), and ROC (96.08%). Overall, RF and XGB outperformed other models, with accuracy (97.0%) and specificity (100%) for RF, and sensitivity (99.37%), F1-score (98.27%), and ROC (96.08%) for XGB. ML models surpassed DL models across all metrics, with accuracies from 93.0% to 97.0% for DL and 93.0% to 99.0% for ML. Sensitivities ranged from 98.0% to 99.37% for DL and 93.0% to 99.0% for ML. DL models achieved specificities from 78.0% to 94.0%, while ML models ranged from 93.0% to 100%. F1-scores for DL were between 93.0% and 97.0%, and for ML between 96.0% and 98.27%. DL models scored ROC between 68.0% and 78.0%, while ML models ranged from 84.0% to 96.08%. Key features for predicting intubation necessity include GCS at admission, ICU admission, age, longer folic acid therapy duration, elevated BUN and AST levels, VBG_HCO3 at initial record, and hemodialysis presence. This study as the showcases XAI's effectiveness in predicting intubation necessity in methanol-poisoned patients. ML models, particularly RF and XGB, outperform DL counterparts, underscoring their potential for clinical decision-making.

Purpose: The Internet, as a symbol of the new era of information and communication technologies, plays a crucial role in human development and professional growth. This study aimed to explore how Internet self-efficacy mediates the relationship between digital competence and professional growth in teachers.Methodology: The research employed a quantitative approach and a correlational method. The statistical population consisted of teachers in Kermanshah City, with a sample size of 310 teachers selected through available sampling. Data were collected using standardized questionnaires on digital competence, professional development, and Internet self-efficacy. Analysis involved descriptive and inferential statistics, as well as structural equation modeling using SPSS-23 and Smart PLS software.Findings: The study revealed a positive and significant direct impact of digital competence on Internet self-efficacy, on professional growth, and on Internet self-efficacy with professional growth. Additionally, the indirect impact of digital competence on professional development through Internet self-efficacy was positive and significant.Conclusion: Internet self-efficacy plays a crucial role in predicting the relationship between digital competence and teachers' professional growth. Enhancing digital skills enables individuals to leverage resources on the Internet, while self-efficacy beliefs contribute to professional growth. Recognizing the psychological aspects of self-efficacy is essential in achieving professional goals.Value: This research provides a conceptual model for teacher professional growth based on digital competence, highlighting the mediating role of Internet self-efficacy.

Introduction: Considering the importance of agrin, mTOR and AKT proteins in cognitive and physiological function, knowing the effects of different exercise programs is of particular importance. Aim: The purpose of this study was to investigate the responses of agrin, mTOR and AKT proteins in dual resistance-cognitive exercises of healthy people. Method: The research method is semi-experimental. 10 healthy men were randomly divided into two groups (resistance-cognitive group of 5 people and resistance group of 5 people). Resistance contraction included eccentric and concentric knee extension with maximum strength and speed. The contractions included 12 sets of 10 repetitions for the right leg, and in the cognitive group, cognitive task exercises included counting numbers in reverse, multiplying and dividing numbers, counting the months of the year, and counting coins simultaneously with facial resistance exercises. Took A biopsy was performed at the beginning and end of the study. To analyze the data, dependent t statistical method and covariance test were performed in SPSS21 software. Results: The results showed that the intra-group changes of mTOR and AKT proteins after one activity session were significant in the resistance-cognitive and resistance groups (p≤0.05). However, the inter-group changes of agrin, mTOR and AKT proteins showed no difference between the two groups. Conclusion: The present study showed that a session of resistance and resistance-cognitive activity leads to changes in the factors involved in the strength and hypertrophy of skeletal muscles. In addition, these changes are generally more resistance-cognitive in the resistance group.

Abstract Acetophenones are naturally occurring phenolic compounds which have found in over 24 plant families and also fungi strains. They are exist in both free or glycosides form in nature. The biological activities of these compounds have been assayed and reported including cytotoxicity, antimicrobial, antimalarial, antioxidant and antityrosinase activities. Herein, we review the chemistry and biological activity of natural acetophenone derivatives that have been isolated and identified until January 2024. Taken together, it was reported 252 acetophenone derivatives in which the genera Melicope (69) and Acronychia (44) were the principal species as producers of acetophenones. Graphical Abstract

Abstract Handedness is a manifestation of brain hemispheric specialization. Left-handedness occurs at increased rates in neurodevelopmental disorders. Genome-wide association studies have identified common genetic effects on handedness or brain asymmetry, which mostly involve variants outside protein-coding regions and may affect gene expression. Implicated genes include several that encode tubulins (microtubule components) or microtubule-associated proteins. Here we examine whether left-handedness is also influenced by rare coding variants (frequencies ≤ 1%), using exome data from 38,043 left-handed and 313,271 right-handed individuals from the UK Biobank. The beta-tubulin gene TUBB4B shows exome-wide significant association, with a rate of rare coding variants 2.7 times higher in left-handers than right-handers. The TUBB4B variants are mostly heterozygous missense changes, but include two frameshifts found only in left-handers. Other TUBB4B variants have been linked to sensorineural and/or ciliopathic disorders, but not the variants found here. Among genes previously implicated in autism or schizophrenia by exome screening, DSCAM and FOXP1 show evidence for rare coding variant association with left-handedness. The exome-wide heritability of left-handedness due to rare coding variants was 0.91%. This study reveals a role for rare, protein-altering variants in left-handedness, providing further evidence for the involvement of microtubules and disorder-relevant genes.

Background and Objective: Sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) is involved in regulation of proliferation, differentiation, hypertrophy and anti-apoptosis and activation of satellite cells. This study was done to evaluated the effect of 8 weeks resistance training on sphingosine-1-phosphate level and gene expression of SK1 enzyme, isoforms of MHCs in skeletal muscles of male Wistar rats. Materials and Methods: This experimental study was done on Twenty four 8-week-old 190-250 gr male Wistar rats. The rats were allocated randomly into control (N=12) and training (N=12) groups. Resistance training was done using a 1 meter height ladder with 2 cm grid with an 85 degree incline, and weights attached to rat's tails. The content of S1P present in the chloroform layer was determined by means of high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Determination of relative mRNA expression was performed by Real-time PCR. Data were analyzed using SPSS-17, Kolmogorov-Smirnov and independent t-test. Results: Resistance exercise training increased the total content of S1P in FHL (fast-twitch) and soleus (slow-twitch) muscles in comparison with control group (P

Background It is necessary to improve the knowledge and attitude of dental practitioners toward teledentistry for its implementation in the oral healthcare system. The objective of the current study was to investigate the knowledge and attitude of Iranian dental practitioners toward teledentistry. Methods This descriptive, cross-sectional survey was performed among 387 dental practitioners working in two big cities in Iran. An online self-structured questionnaire that included 34 questions was applied to collect information about the general profile of participants (age, sex, work experience, city of work, and dental specialty), their knowledge, and attitude about teledentistry. Results Most participants were males (57.9%) and general practitioners (79.6%). Dental practitioners expressed poor knowledge and only 23.50% of them were familiar with teledentistry. However, most of the participants, mainly in Zahedan city, expressed agreement on the potential benefits of teledentistry for patient care and access. More than 80% of dental practitioners agreed with the statement on the application of teledentistry in enhancing access to guidelines, recommendations, and preventive dentistry. However, the majority of dental practitioners believe that the diagnosis by teledentistry is not as accurate as the diagnosis in clinical practice. Conclusion Our study reveals a positive attitude toward teledentistry among Iranian dentists with a significant knowledge gap. This knowledge gap may be a barrier to teledentistry adoption. Educational programs tailored to address these knowledge gaps are necessary to pave the way for the successful integration of teledentistry into routine dental practice.

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to determine the relationship between organizational citizenship behavior, leader-member exchange, and perceived supervisor support among employees of public libraries in Kurdistan province.Method: The present research method is a survey type in terms of practical purpose and data collection method. The statistical population of this study includes all employees of public libraries in Kurdistan province, totaling 99 people, which was determined using the census method due to the small population size. Three standard questionnaires were utilized to collect data on Organizational Citizenship Behavior (Kanuski, 1996), Leaders-Member Exchange (Gran and Joey Bain, 1995), and perceived support for the Supervisor (Rubin, 2013). The content validity of the questionnaire was confirmed by five professors of information science, and the reliability was assessed using Cronbach's alpha, resulting in values of 0.785, 0.845, and 0.938. Data analysis was conducted using statistical coefficients such as correlation coefficient and multiple linear regression in SPSS software version 22.Findings: The findings showed a significant relationship between leader-member exchange and all five dimensions of organizational citizenship behavior, as well as the perceived support of the supervisor. Additionally, a significant relationship was found between the perceived support of the supervisor and organizational citizenship behavior. The perceived support of the supervisor was identified to play a mediating role in the relationship between leader-member exchange and the dimensions of altruism, respect, and humility. Lastly, the gender of the respondents was found to be related to the altruistic dimension.Conclusion: Based on the results obtained, it can be said that employees are more likely to engage in organizational citizenship behavior in response to perceived support from the supervisor rather than as a tool for rewarding. In other words, employee's express organizational citizenship behavior because they feel satisfied with the support of their supervisor. What is certain is that it is not only the role of the supervisor that strengthens the behavior of organizational citizenship in the workplace; organizational citizenship behavior is a team effort.

Abstract Background Natural products are one of the best candidates for controlling drug-resistant pathogens, the advantages of which include low production costs and low side effects. In this study, as potential antimicrobials, the anti-bacterial and antibiofilm activities of several Iranian native medicinal plants were screened. Methods The antibacterial/antifungal and anti-biofilm activities of 18 medicinal plants including Reseda lutea L., Nepeta sintenisii Bunge., Stachys turcomanica Trautv., Stachys lavandulifolia Vahl, Diarthron antoninae (Pobed.) Kit Tan., Ziziphora clinopodioides Lam., Euphorbia kopetdaghi Prokh, Euphorbia serpens Kunth., Hymenocrater calycinus Benth., Scutellaria pinnatifida A.Ham., Viola tricolor L., Hypericum helianthemoides (Spach) Boiss., Hypericum scabrum L., Convolvulus lineatus L., Scabiosa rotata M.Bieb Greuter & Burdet, Delphinium semibarbatum Bien. Ex Boiss., Glycyrrhiza triphylla Fisch. & C.A.Mey., and Ziziphus jujuba Mill., against two Gram-positive bacteria, Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus, as well as two Gram-negative bacteria, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli; and Candida albicans as a fungal strain, were evaluated. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal/fungicidal concentration (MBC/MFC) values of the extracts against tested microorganisms were reported and we investigated their effect on the biofilm inhibition of Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1, Staphylococcus epidermis, Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus mutans. In addition, the effect of the extracts on the eradication of the biofilms of these bacteria was evaluated. Results In this study, H. scabrum was found to exhibit potentially significant activity against Gram-positive bacteria with the MIC range of 6.25–25 µg/mL. This extract also showed a significant effect on inhibiting the biofilm of S. aureus, S. mutans, and S. epidermidis and eradicating the biofilm of S. epidermidis DSMZ 3270. In addition, Hymenocrater calycinus root extract had moderate antibacterial activity against B. cereus with the MIC and MBC 62.5 µg/mL, respectively. Conclusions The results of this study showed that the root extracts of two plants, Hypericum scabrum and Hymenocrater calycinus, had antimicrobial and anti-biofilm effects. Based on the observed anti-biofilm effects, these two plants may be considered in future studies to find responsible antimicrobial compounds.

Background and purpose: Extracellular electron transferring (EET) or redox bacteria employ a shuttle of flavins to transfer electrons to the oxygen in the intestinal mucosa. Although clinical studies suggest that the gut microbiome modulates the efficiency of immune checkpoint therapy in patients with cancer, the modulation mechanisms have not been well-characterized yet. Experimental approach: In the present study, the oral gavage administration of Shewanella oneidensis MR-1 as a prototypic EET bacteria was assayed in a mouse model of lung cancer to determine the effect of EET bacterium on the efficacy of the programmed cell death protein 1 (PD1)-immune checkpoint therapy. Findings/Results: It was indicated that in vitro EET from S. oneidensis was mediated by riboflavins that were supplied through extrinsic sources. Co-administration of S. oneidensis and anti-PD 1 antibodies represent better tumor remission compared to the single-administration of each one; however, no statistically significant change was observed in the tumor volume. Conclusion and implications: More detailed studies are needed to definitively confirm the therapeutic effects of electrogenic bacteria in patients with cancer. Given the findings of the present study, increasing flavin compounds or EET bacteria in the intestine may provide novel strategies for modulating cancer immunotherapy.

AbstractDust storms are a common natural phenomenon in the world, especially in the arid and semi-arid regions of the world. This phenomenon, like other natural hazards, can have harmful effects on the plants. This study investigates the effects of dust under simulated conditions on the biochemical properties of wild pistachio (Pistacia atlantica). Two-year-old seedlings were provided by a state nursery. As a completely randomized design, seedlings were put in simulated dust chamber. The dust was applied at concentrations of 5000, 7000 and 9000 mg/m3 for 10 weeks with intervals of 12 days. At the same time, ten seedlings were selected as control seedlings. At the end of each dusting period, the leaves of the treated and control seedlings were collected from the middle part of the crowns and stored in the freezer for further analysis. The results showed a decrease in chlorophyll pigments and carotenoids with increasing dust concentration, while carbohydrates and catalase and peroxidase enzymes increased. No significant differences were observed in the proline content of the treated and control seedlings. This could be due to the short time of treatment as well as the intensity of the induced dust storm stress. In conclusion, the results can be considered as basic information on the variations of physiological characteristics of forest trees to natural dust storms and their adaptability to climatic changes.

An ultra-sensitive immunosensor was designed for the accurate determination of Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA). To enhance the performance of immunosensor, an MWCNT/Ni(OH)2 nanocomposite was utilized as the electrochemical interface and modifier of the electrode surface. The simple preparation procedures for MWCNT/Ni(OH)2 composite were provided. Its characteristics and properties were investigated by HRTEM, FESEM, XRD, and FTIR techniques. Leveraging the unique electrochemical characteristics shown by the MWCNT/Ni(OH)2 nanocomposite and its correlation with CEA, high accuracy in CEA detection was achieved. Experimental findings provide evidence that the proposed immunosensor has the ability to detect CEA in laboratory samples. This research contributes towards achieving precise and rapid CEA detection in cancer diagnosis and prognosis. Across a wide concentration range of CEA, the designed immunosensor demonstrated a linear response from 0.0001 ng/mL to 2 ng/mL, and its limit of detection (LOD) was just 0.076 pg/mL. To evaluate the practical applicability of the electrochemical immunosensor, blood serum samples were examined, revealing the immunosensor's remarkable specificity and longevity. Its high accuracy and stability make it a valuable tool in clinical settings and biomedical research, paving the way for improved cancer management and patient outcomes.

Purpose: The aim of this study is to validate the proposed model of knowledge management and investigate the status of knowledge management in scientometrics units of medical universities in Iran. Understanding how knowledge is created and managed, identifying the components of knowledge management within these units, determining a suitable knowledge management model for medical universities, and assessing the role of scientometrics units in knowledge management are essential. Method: The present study is practical in terms of purpose and was conducted using a descriptive survey. The data gathering tool was a researcher-made questionnaire based on the proposed model in the study. It included 5 knowledge management components: identification components (18 items), acquisition (11 items), application (9 items), registration (6 items), and presentation (8 items), set up in the Likert spectrum. The study community consisted of all managers and staff affiliated with the University of Medical Sciences in Iran. 164 people were identified by reviewing the websites of active scientometrics units at the medical universities in Iran. According to Morgan's table, the number of samples required was determined to be 115 by a random selection process. 84 completed questionnaires were received. Data from 84 questionnaires were analyzed, as the return rate exceeded 70%. The content validity method has been utilized to assess the validity of the questionnaire. In the present study, the questionnaire was formulated and validated based on the input of seven experts, including four faculty members and three specialists who are also authors of relevant articles. The validity of the study was also examined through confirmatory factor analysis. The reliability of this study was assessed using the internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha) method with the assistance of SPS software. The obtained reliability coefficient for the entire questionnaire was 0.949. Information analysis was conducted using structural equations and PLS software to assess model validity. Additionally, sample and bipolarized TT exams were employed to investigate the status of knowledge management components. Findings: The proposed model of knowledge management was formulated in medical universities, encompassing five components: identification (12 items), acquisition (10 items), application (eight items), registration (five items), and presentation (seven items). The measurement model test includes a reliability test (observable variables, composite reliability, and Cronbach's alpha), a narrative test (involving convergence validity and divergent validity), and a validity test for quality, which was approved. For the knowledge management variable and the two components of identifying and acquiring knowledge, the significance level of the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test was greater than 0.5. Therefore, data skewness is not significant, and the data is considered to be normally distributed. Therefore, the T-test is used to examine their status. The data is not normal for the components of application, registration, and presentation of knowledge, and a two-sample test is used. The results of the single-variable t-test and the two-sample t-test showed that the knowledge management variable and the components of knowledge identification, knowledge acquisition, and knowledge application are statistically above average (score of 3). However, for the two components of registering and presenting knowledge, the results were not statistically significant and were average (score of 3). Given that knowledge management in Iranian organizations is not very well-established, most research has reported that the status of knowledge management and its components in Iranian organizations is at a moderate and inadequate level. However, the conclusion of this study indicates that the status of knowledge management components, including identifying knowledge, acquiring knowledge, and applying knowledge in the field of scientometrics, is moderately high. However, in the components of registration and presentation, the status was lower. Conclusion: The proposed model of knowledge management in medical universities comprises five components: identification, acquisition, registration, application, and dissemination of knowledge. This model can serve as a reference and framework for implementation in other universities.

Background and purpose: Bacterial infections are treated with antibiotics, but the development of multi-drug resistant strains, which are growing at an increasing rate, is a phenomenon that threatens human societies. Therefore, alternative strategies are needed to combat infectious diseases. Today, compounds that reduce the pathogenicity of bacteria and do not interfere with their survival or growth are introduced as the next generation of antibiotics. Pseudomonas aeruginosa is one of the important and hazardous pathogens that employs its quorum-sensing network to regulate pathogenicity and virulence factors production. Here, we investigated the effect of a natural naphthoquinone compound, Lawsone (isolated from Henna), and its synthetic derivatives on the quorum-sensing system of P. aeruginosa PAO1. Materials and methods: First, the MIC of each compound was evaluated. Then, the effect of the selected compounds on biofilm formation and survival rate of biofilm sessile cells was investigated by colorimetric method. Finally, the virulence factors secretion of P. aeruginosa, including pyocyanin, pyoverdine, and protease was studied in the presence of the selected compounds. Results: The results indicated that Lawsone and NO2-481 reduced the production of P. aeruginosa biofilm by about 79% and 92%, respectively. Moreover, Lawsone and NO2-481 (at both concentrations, 250 and 125 µg/mL) decreased the viability of biofilm cells by about 70%. Furthermore, NO2-481 reduced the production of virulence factors including pyocyanin and pyoverdine by about 55% and 81%, respectively; however, it did not affect the protease production. Conclusion: NO2-481 derivative has the ability to reduce the pathogenicity of P. aeruginosa, and if it is proven to be non-cytotoxic, it can be assessed through animal and clinical studies, to be applied as an alternative compound along with antibiotics or disinfectants

To minimize potential damage, it is crucial to carefully harvest greenhouse crops like tomatoes at the optimal time. To improve this process, the use of robotic harvesting methods has been proposed. The robotic harvester consists of important components including a mobile platform with robotics, displacement units that can move linearly or rotationally, a manipulator, a gripper, a camera, an image processing-based fruit detection unit, and a depth sensor. A robotic manipulator with three linear degrees of freedom was created in the Cartesian coordinate system. To enhance its capabilities, a gripper mechanism was incorporated, providing an additional rotational degree of freedom. The primary objective of this robot was to autonomously detect the position of ripe tomatoes. To achieve this, the displacement control of both the robot arms and gripper was executed through commands from the image processing unit. Different channel of some color space was studied. The effectiveness of this channels was assessed by conducting tests in the presence of tomato plants. The accuracy of the system in approaching the crop were thoroughly evaluated. Channels H of HSV color space, Cr of YCrCb color space, and a of Lab color space showed better result. The accuracy of detecting ripe tomatoes in channel H of HSV color space was the highest and 87%.

Abstract Background Despite the globally reducing hospitalization rates and the much lower risks of Covid-19 mortality, accurate diagnosis of the infection stage and prediction of outcomes are clinically of interest. Advanced current technology can facilitate automating the process and help identifying those who are at higher risks of developing severe illness. This work explores and represents deep-learning-based schemes for predicting clinical outcomes in Covid-19 infected patients, using Visual Transformer and Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs), fed with 3D data fusion of CT scan images and patients’ clinical data. Methods We report on the efficiency of Video Swin Transformers and several CNN models fed with fusion datasets and CT scans only vs. a set of conventional classifiers fed with patients’ clinical data only. A relatively large clinical dataset from 380 Covid-19 diagnosed patients was used to train/test the models. Results Results show that the 3D Video Swin Transformers fed with the fusion datasets of 64 sectional CT scans + 67 clinical labels outperformed all other approaches for predicting outcomes in Covid-19-infected patients amongst all techniques (i.e., TPR = 0.95, FPR = 0.40, F0.5 score = 0.82, AUC = 0.77, Kappa = 0.6). Conclusions We demonstrate how the utility of our proposed novel 3D data fusion approach through concatenating CT scan images with patients’ clinical data can remarkably improve the performance of the models in predicting Covid-19 infection outcomes. Significance Findings indicate possibilities of predicting the severity of outcome using patients’ CT images and clinical data collected at the time of admission to hospital.

Abstract A two‐degrees‐of‐freedom (2DOF) dual‐rotor axial‐flux induction motor (2DOF‐DRAFIM) is proposed with independent movement capability of rotors and its performance is evaluated in detail. First, using the analytical equations, the steady‐state model of the motor is presented and the electrical equivalent circuit is extracted along with an electromagnetic design algorithm for the proposed motor. In the next step, using two‐dimensional and three‐dimensional finite element modelling (FEM), the performance of the proposed motor is investigated. The results of the experimental measurements on the manufactured prototype confirm the validity of the results of theoretical modelling and finite element simulations. The proposed structure provides some unique features. One of the fascinating behaviours of the proposed 2DOF‐DRAFIM is that the higher‐speed rotor produces higher output torque and the lower‐speed rotor has lower torque. In this regard, the 2DOF structure can be considered a potential concept for electric vehicles (EVs) without needing a conventional mechanical differential.

Abstract Background Low back pain (LBP) is a multifactorial disorder associated with a high range of physical and psychological burden on the society. Patient-led goal-setting approach has shown potential effects for improving chronic LBP. However, there are few studies investigating its benefits when combined with a supplementary intervention. This paper, therefore, presents a protocol for a randomized control trial (RCT) to study the effect of a patient-led goal-setting approach combined with pain neuroscience education (PNE) or manual therapy (MT) among patients with chronic LBP. Methods A total of 105 patients suffering from chronic LBP will be recruited via flyers displayed in hospitals and universities, and those meeting the study’s criteria will randomly be allocated into a patient-led goal-setting approach with the PNE group, and/or with the MT program group, and/or a control group. The primary outcomes will be the pain intensity and disability. Secondary outcomes include quality of life, depression, anxiety and stress, fear avoidance beliefs, kinesophobia, pain self-efficacy, catastrophic pain, neurophysiology of pain, and central sensitivity. All the outcomes will be recorded at 2 months after receiving the treatment as post-test sessions and after 4 and 12 months as follow-up sessions. The Ethics Committee in Research at Sport Sciences Research Institute of Iran approved the protocol of this trial (IR.SSRC.REC.1400.084). Written, informed consent to participate will be obtained from all participants. All methods will be conducted in accordance with the ethical standards of the Declaration of Helsinki and in accordance with relevant guidelines and regulations. We will disseminate the findings through peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations and send them to the participants. Discussion This trial will demonstrate which supplementary intervention can better improve the impact of a patient-led goal-setting approach to treat LBP. If successful, the results will potentially have implications for athletic trainers, physiotherapists, and health care practitioners. Trial registration IRCT Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials IRCT20210927052616N1. Registered on November 03, 2021.

Background and purpose: Gingivitis is an inflammatory disease of the gums caused by accumulation of dental plaque. It can become a chronic periodontal disease if plaque spread below the gum line. The most common pathogens that contribute to periodontal disease include Streptococcus mutans, Streptococcus pyogenes, and Candida albicans. Due to the side effects of common treatment by chlorhexidine mouthwash, novel treatments to fight such microbes are much of interest. This study aimed at comparing the antimicrobial effect of herbal mouthwash containing the extracts of nut-grass and thyme and chlorhexidine mouthwash on common periodontal pathogens. Materials and methods: First, Cyperus rotundus and Thymus vulgaris were collected, powdered, and the hydro alcoholic extract of the mixture of two plants and the methanol extract of each plant were taken. Then, a mouthwash containing combined extract of the two plants was prepared using different exipients. To evaluate the antimicrobial effect of the extracts, S. mutans, S. pyogenes, and C. albicans were used. After determining the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC), the effect of mouthwash on S. mutans biofilm formation and degradation was investigated. Results: The MIC of the mouthwash formulation against S. mutans, S. pyogenes, and C. albicans were 0.625, 0.039, and 2.5 mg/ml, respectively. The MBC of the mouthwash for each microorganism was 1.25, 0.078, and 10 mg/ml, respectively. The herbal mouthwash significantly inhibited biofilm formation compared to the positive control (P0.05). Findings showed no significant difference in biofilm destruction between the herbal mouthwash and the positive control (P>0.05). Conclusion: The prepared herbal mouthwash showed significant antimicrobial and anti-biofilm effects, and was much more effective in preventing biofilm formation than the standard treatment by chlorhexidine.

Abstract The tumor microenvironment is overwhelmingly dictated by macrophages, intimately affiliated with tumors, exercising pivotal roles in multiple processes, including angiogenesis, extracellular matrix reconfiguration, cellular proliferation, metastasis, and immunosuppression. They further exhibit resilience to chemotherapy and immunotherapy via meticulous checkpoint blockades. When appropriately stimulated, macrophages can morph into a potent bidirectional component of the immune system, engulfing malignant cells and annihilating them with cytotoxic substances, thus rendering them intriguing candidates for therapeutic targets. As myelomonocytic cells relentlessly amass within tumor tissues, macrophages rise as prime contenders for cell therapy upon the development of chimeric antigen receptor effector cells. Given the significant incidence of macrophage infiltration correlated with an unfavorable prognosis and heightened resistance to chemotherapy in solid tumors, we delve into the intricate role of macrophages in cancer propagation and their promising potential in confronting four formidable cancer variants—namely, melanoma, colon, glioma, and breast cancers.

Background: Large-volume paracentesis is the preferred treatment for patients with severe and refractory ascites. Several complications were reported during therapeutical paracentesis. However, there are very few published studies on the change in blood cell count after paracentesis. This study aimed to evaluate any changes in blood cell counts after ascites fluid drainage. Methods: This study was conducted on patients with severe ascites and chronic liver disease who underwent large-volume paracentesis at Namazi Hospital, in Shiraz, Iran, between March 2021 and February 2022. A data gathering form containing the patient’s medical history, cause of cirrhosis, ascites fluid volume, as well as routine tests including primarily sodium, potassium, and basal creatinine, was filled out. Before and after the surgery, the total blood cell count was measured. Before the procedure, adjustment was made in the case of coagulopathy and albumin deficiency. The effect of factors such as the volume of drained fluid, splenomegaly, antibiotics, and steroid use was assessed on the changes in the number of blood cells. Using the JAMOVI 2.3.9 software, a paired t test and multiple regression were applied for statistical analysis (P0.001).Conclusion: The findings of the present study showed that children with tense ascites who had large-volume paracentesis might experience a sharp drop in blood cell count after the procedure, which was a transient physiological condition.

BACKGROUND: Oncology nurses are confronted with various occupational hazards; consequently, it is of great importance to identify and measure their occupational health needs. Due to the fact that standard tools are not available to assess these needs, this study was conducted to develop a tool for assessing oncology nurses’ occupational health needs. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study consisted of two phases from 2020 to 2021. The first phase was item generation and tool design. The initial development of the item pool was based on the result of the qualitative study and literature search. The second phase was item reduction and psychometric evaluation of the formulated tool including, face, content, and construct validity and reliability. Construct validity was assessed using exploratory factor analysis and convergent validity with the participation of 300 oncology nurses. The reliability of the tool was assessed using internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha) and test-retest (intra-cluster correlation coefficient). RESULTS: The mean content validity index (CVI) of the tool was 0.95. The results of exploratory factor analysis showed that this tool consisted of 69 items and four factors, explaining 65.88% of the variance. The results of the convergent validity assessment showed a significant positive correlation between the mean scores of occupational health needs and occupational stress (P < 0.0001 and r = 0.40). Cronbach’s alpha coefficient (0.98) and tool stability (0.98) confirmed the appropriate reliability of the tool. CONCLUSION: The developed tool is recommended as a valid and reliable tool for assessing oncology nurses’ occupational health needs that can be used both in practice and in future studies.

One of the most important eras in the development of Iran’s art and architecture, especially in the format of murals, is the Qajar era. The dominant attributes of this period are relations with the West and adopting its culture and art. Qajar’s mural art was represented in different buildings, including houses. Nasir al-Mulk House of Shiraz is one of the buildings of the Qajar era, and in its Shahneshin Hall, there are prominent and diverse ceiling paintings. Given that the existing paintings on the ceilings of this building provide a combination of Iranian and Western concepts and contents, the comparative study of their motifs becomes significant both for a better understanding of the visual and topical approaches of the ceiling painting art of the Qajar and also to fill the gap of the comparative information in this field.The ceiling painting of the aforementioned building was studied to answer the following question: What contents and representations do these paintings imply based on the iconographical comparative analysis?This research aims to identify, study, and carry out a comparative evaluation of the motifs in the ceiling of the Nasir al-Mulk House based on the iconography method.In addition to the library studies, this research was supplemented by data from field investigations, including in-site examination, documenting the paintings, and also describing and explaining them.The results of this research provoke the readers’ attention not only to the existing motifs in each mural but also to their latent concepts. The semantic perspective of the art of this era discloses the fact that despite the imitation and separation from originality, this art reached an individual identity that could be named as Qajar style. In the end, this research was an endeavor to provide a deep understanding of the existing concepts in the murals of this era in Shiraz and to discover the ontological viewpoints of individuals in this period.

Background and purpose: Pain is one of the most common problems after hysterectomy which causes long-term complications in postoperative recovery or delayed recovery. Today, there is a lot of tendency toward complementary medicine, including massage, to reduce the side effects of drugs. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of foot massage on postoperative pain after hysterecxtomy. Materials and methods: A randomized controlled clinical trial was performed in 60 eligible hysterectomy patients. They were selected by convenience sampling at Tehran Shariati Hospital and Tehran Valiasr Hospital and divided into two groups using simple random allocation (n=30 per group) in 2017. In intervention group, foot massage was given for 20 minutes daily on two consecutive days after the operation, while the control group received routine care. Visual analog scale was used to measure pain intensity before the intervention and 24 hr after the intervention and also five days after the surgery. Data were analyzed by descriptive statistics, independent t-test, Chi-square, and Fisher's exact test. Results: We observed significant differences in the mean scores for pain intensity before the intervention and 24 hr after the intervention between the intervention group (2.01±0.41) and the control group (0.47±0.21) (P

Micro-morphological characteristics of leaves such as stomata and trichomes are reliable indicators of plant response to environmental conditions. The aim of this study was to determine the adaptation strategies of 10 woody species growing in semi-arid Zagros forests in western Iran based on leaf microstructures, focusing on trichomes and stomata using light and scanning electron microscopy. Different types of trichomes and stomata were recognized. Stomata were generally more visible on the abaxial sides of leaves, a feature that helps reduce water loss from leaf surfaces exposed to direct airflow and radiation. Trichomes were classified into two different types: glandular trichomes and non-glandular trichomes with subgroups such as solitary, two-armed T-shaped unicellular, crypt, hooked hairs with cystoliths, fasciculate, stellate, long coiled, tufted stellate, long multiradiate, short bristles with cystoliths, peltate scales, and dendritic hairs. The abundance of trichomes on the leaves indicates their role as biological control parameters. Eucalyptus camaldulensis was the only introduced species studied that lacked trichomes on both sides of the leaf. The most frequently observed types of stomata were "Anomocytic" and "Paracytic". The striking differences between the micro-morphological characteristics of the leaves of different species are an expression of the plants adaptations to the environmental ecological conditions.