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Abstract One of the most common methods to protect electronic and telecommunication systems in a high‐power electromagnetic (HPEM) environment is using a conductive enclosure. Amplifiers are the vital parts in transmitter and receiver systems as the main components of a telecommunication system, so investigating the effects of HPEM waveform on their performance is very important. The Presence of apertures in the body of the conductive enclosure, as well as non‐linear elements such as transistors in amplifiers, adds to the complexity of examining the coupling of electromagnetic fields on the performance of amplifiers. Considering the importance of the topic, in this study, the impact of the HPEM waveform on the power amplifier inside the conductive enclosure has been investigated. By using the finite difference delay modelling (FDDM) numerical method as a stable method followed by the vector fitting (VF) method, the electromagnetic problem has become a circuit problem, which allows examining the response of the power amplifier and any circuit, including non‐linear elements against the interference field. Responses of bipolar linear and non‐linear components in the perforated conductive enclosure by the proposed method have been compared with the results obtained by computer simulation technology microwave studio (CST‐MWS) for verification.

The Safavid period is considered one of the significant eras in Iranian history. Understanding the characteristics of this period is possible through the preserved texts. Many frequently used concepts in these texts align closely with the religious approaches dominant within the power structure. The extensive use of Quranic verses and hadiths, especially those that underscore Shia rituals, is prominent in these writings. Among the notable sources from this period is the book Jahanara-ye Abbasi. This study aims to analyze the speech acts and Quranic citations of this text using a descriptive-analytical method and both quantitative and qualitative data, addressing the question: How are Quranic citations employed in this book, and what is the frequency of each speech act? It appears that, given the explanatory and descriptive approach of the writers and historians of the Safavid era, the most frequent type of speech act in the Quranic citations of Tarikh-e Jahanara-ye Abbasi is assertive speech acts.

Introduction: Depression during adolescence can lead to various psychological and social problems that often persist into adulthood. Objective: The aim of this research was to investigate the effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy based on mental imagery on depression symptoms and autobiographical memory in adolescents. Method: The present study employed a multiple baseline case study design. The study population included adolescents aged 12-18 who sought treatment at non-governmental psychological clinics in the city of Rasht during the years 1401-1402. The sample size consisted of three participants selected through purposive sampling. The instruments used were the Beck Depression Inventory (Beck et al., 1996) and the Autobiographical Memory Test (Williams & Broadbent, 1986). Descriptive statistics, effect size, percentage of improvement, and mixed regression were used for data analysis with SPSS 24 software. Results: The results indicated that the cognitive-behavioral therapy package based on mental imagery significantly reduced depression symptoms in adolescents (p < 0.05) and increased meaningful self-report memories while decreasing more general self-report memories (p < 0.05). Conclusion: When individuals approach specific memories through mental imagery instead of avoiding or neglecting them, hidden emotions become apparent, providing the individual with new meanings of those images and contributing to mood improvement. Considering the effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy based on mental imagery on depression symptoms and autobiographical memories in adolescents, it is recommended that healthcare practitioners working with individuals diagnosed with depression take note of the findings of this research

Introduction: In infectious diseases, there are essential indices used to describe the disease state. In this study, we estimated the basic reproduction number, R0, peak level, doubling time, and daily growth rate of COVID-19. Methods: This ecological study was conducted in 5 provinces of Iran. The daily numbers of new COVID-19 cases from January 17 to February 8, 2020 were used to determine the basic reproduction number (R0), peak date, doubling time, and daily growth rates in all five provinces. A sensitivity analysis was conducted to estimate epidemiological parameters. Result: The highest and lowest number of deaths were observed in Hamedan (657 deaths) and Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari (54 deaths) provinces, respectively. The doubling time of confirmed cases in Kermanshah and Hamedan ranged widely from 18.59 days (95% confidence interval (CI): 17.38, 20) to 76.66 days (95% CI: 56.36, 119.78). In addition, the highest daily growth rates of confirmed cases were observed in Kermanshah (0.037, 95% CI: 0.034, 0.039) and Sistan and Baluchestan (0.032, 95% CI: 0.030, 0.034) provinces. Conclusion: In light of our findings, it is imperative to tailor containment strategies to the unique epidemiological profiles of each region in order to effectively mitigate the spread and impact of COVID-19. The wide variation in doubling times underscores the importance of flexibility in public health responses. By adapting measures to local conditions, we can better address the evolving dynamics of the pandemic and safeguard the well-being of communities.

Background. Diabetes is one of the most common chronic and metabolic diseases. This systematic review and meta-analysis study aimed to compare the effects of multiple daily insulin injections against permanent subcutaneous insulin injections on glycated hemoglobin (HbA1C) levels in type 2 diabetic patients. Methods. Studies that compared the impacts of multiple daily insulin injections against permanent subcutaneous insulin injections on HbA1C levels and were published until the end of 2022 in international databases were searched and retrieved (nine randomized clinical trial studies). The Chi-squared test and I2 were used to determine the presence and size of heterogeneity. Results. The results of the analysis demonstrated that compared to the group of multiple daily insulin injections, HbA1C was significantly reduced in the group of permanent subcutaneous insulin injections, so that the standardized mean difference was equal to -0.26 (95% confidence interval: -0.46– -0.06 P=0.025). According to the results of Egger’s (P=0.333) and Begg’s (P=0.667) tests, publication bias was not observed in this study. Conclusion. Based on the available evidence, permanent subcutaneous injection of insulin could be significantly successful in reducing and controlling the level of HbA1C because the patients in the permanent subcutaneous injection group had lower levels of HbA1C. Practical Implications. In patients with type 2 diabetes, insulin treatment with the permanent subcutaneous injection method can better control the level of HbA1C than the multiple daily injection method.

Introduction: The Japanese quail is a species known for its short production period and high productivity. Due to their small size and low feed requirements, they are considered a cost-effective option for egg production compared to other poultry species. Additionally, quail eggs are recognized for their superior nutritional value compared to regular chicken eggs. However, there is a need for effective methods to enhance productivity, especially in stressful situations. Previous research has indicated that the use of certain dietary supplements can address this issue and improve the productive traits of birds. Therefore, there is considerable scientific interest in studying the effects of natural compounds such as black seed and L-carnitine on the productive performance of laying Japanese quails, both under normal conditions and during heat stress. Investigating these factors can provide valuable insights into the development of strategies to effectively manage and optimize egg production in laying Japanese quails. This, in turn, would contribute to the sustainability and profitability of the poultry industry. In this study, we aimed to examine the effects of black seed, L-carnitine, and vitamin E on the productive performance, carcass characteristics, blood biochemical parameters, and immune responses of Japanese laying quails.Materials and Methods: A total of 500 Japanese laying quails were included in this study. They were divided into two temperature conditions: normal temperature and high temperature (36 degrees Celsius for 6 hours per day). Additionally, there were five experimental treatments: control diet (without any additives), black seed (1.5% black seed diet), L-carnitine (250 ppm + control diet), 1.5% black seed + 250 ppm L-carnitine diet, and Vitamin E diet (200 ppm + control diet). This resulted in a 5x2 factorial experiment with a total of 10 treatments, 5 replications, and 10 quails per replication. The study consisted of three phases: an adaptation period to the experimental diets lasting two weeks, exposure to the designated temperature conditions for five weeks, and a three-week recovery period. During these phases, various parameters were measured and recorded, including productive performance, carcass characteristics, and blood biochemical and immune indicators (such as triglyceride, cholesterol, LDL, HDL concentrations, heterophil, and lymphocyte percentages) under both heat stress and recovery periods in Japanese laying quails. Data analysis was performed using the Generalized Linear Model (GLM) method with the assistance of SAS software. Mean comparisons were conducted using Tukey's multiple range tests.Results and Discussion: The results of this study revealed several important findings. During the initial two weeks of the experiment, the consumption of feed containing black seed + L-carnitine led to the highest feed intake, while diets containing black seed, black seed + L-carnitine, and vitamin E demonstrated the highest egg mass compared to the control group (P

Introduction: Lung cancer is the second most common cancer in the world. Smoking occupational and environmental exposures are the most important causes of lung cancer. Cadmium is known as a human carcinogen due to its ability to increase lung cancer risk. This study estimates the general results of all studies on the relationship between cadmium and lung cancer. Material and Methods: In the present study, studies that evaluated the relationship between cadmium and lung cancer until May 2022 were searched and retrieved. From the funnel plot to determine the existence of diffusion skew, from the statistical tests Chi-squared test (x2) and I2 to determine heterogeneity, from the meta-regression method to identify the root of heterogeneity, and from the sensitivity analysis approach to identify the effect of each study on the result, it was generally used. This study performed all analyses with Stata statistical software version 15. Results: In this study, it was observed that the chance of developing lung cancer compared to the base group, in the people exposed to a higher dose than the base level of cadmium is equal to 1.31 (95% CI: 1.06-1.62; p-value = 0.024), which is statistically significant. Based on Egger’s test (p-value = 0.178) and Begg’s (p-value = 0.276), no diffusion bias was observed in this study. Conclusion: ccording to the final results of this review research, exposure to cadmium leads to a 31% increase in lung cancer risk, which is statistically significant. Therefore, cadmium is a risk factor for lung cancer.

Background: Online education allows students and instructors to participate regardless of distance or time zone. Online learning systems can be utilized to determine learners’ requirements. Learning approach principles and the student’s learning scheme should be considered for successful instruction. In this study, we aimed to review the literature on major learning approaches for online medical education. Methods: Given the fundamental role of learning theory principles in the online learning environment, specifically in medical education, and to improve online instruction, we reviewed and categorized four crucial learning theories and their implications for online medical education. We utilized the ERIC, Scopus, Google Scholar, and ProQuest databases to review the literature from 2000 to 2023 on various aspects of learning theories and their implications in online medical education. Results: This review study revealed various implications of online medical education based on the major learning schools which can be utilized in online learning situations based on the instructional design goals and objectives. This study retrieved 59 published articles that considered behaviorism, cognitivism, constructivism, and connectivism as the major learning theories and revealed that all these learning theories are applicable in online learning environments in various aspects, specifically in the medical field. Conclusion: The fundamental ideas and structures of various schools of thought share similarities, providing an opportunity to incorporate principles from different approaches into online medical education materials. Learning theories can be utilized for selecting appropriate practice for various learning goals.

Abstract Motorway incidents are frequent & varied in nature. Incident management on motorways is critical for both driver safety & road network operation. The expected duration of an incident is a key parameter in the decision-making process for control room operators, however, the actual duration for which an incident will impact the network is never known with true certainty. This paper presents a study which compares the ability of different machine learning algorithms to estimate the duration of motorway incidents on Ireland’s M50 motorway, using an extensive historical incident database. Results show that the support vector machine has the best performance in most cases, but a different method may need to be used to improve accuracy in some situations. Results highlight the main challenges in accurately forecasting incident durations in real time & recommendations are made for improving prediction accuracy through systematic recording of various additional incident details.

Background: The expansion of E-learning has brought about new ethical challenges concerning academic integrity, privacy, inclusivity, technological impacts, and power dynamics, necessitating careful examination. This article reviews the literature related to ethical issues in online education to prioritize considerations for instructors and educators. Methods: A review of 49 articles on E-learning ethics published during 2005-2022 was conducted. Manuscripts were retrieved via Google Scholar, ERIC, and Education Source databases utilizing “online learning ethics,” “e-learning ethics,” “academic integrity,” and “learner privacy keywords. The articles were analyzed using qualitative synthesis.Results: Key ethical priorities in this study include preserving academic integrity through comprehensive policies, safeguarding learner privacy via data security mechanisms, enhancing inclusivity through design considerations, evaluating technological impacts, and exercising responsible instructor power. Conclusion: Actively addressing ethical complexities enhances academic integrity in digital classrooms, but sustainable engagement with the evolution of e-learning requires continuous participation. The findings shed light on the responsibilities of online educators in empowering diverse learners.

Extended Abstract Introduction and Objective: Today, the intensity and speed of production in the laying hens causes multiple anomalies such as bone and skeletal problems which leads to heavy economic losses. Conducting studies on stem cells obtained from laying hens can improve our knowledge and understanding of the differentiation and molecular mechanisms at cellular level in these birds. For this reason, the aim of this study was to extract mesenchymal stem cells from the fat tissue of laying hens and culture these cells in laboratory conditions. Material and Methods: In this research, mesenchymal stem cells were isolated in a laboratory environment under sterile conditions from fat tissue of laying hens (Hy-Line strain-w36). Then in an standard culture conditions the mentioned cells were separated from other cells by treatment of collagenase enzyme. The obtained cells after several steps of centrifugation and purification were cultured in DMEM-F12 medium containing 10% fetal bovine serum. During 21 days, cell growth process (PDT) and cell colony formation test were performed to evaluate the performance of isolated cells and the ability of cell growth and proliferation. Results: About 3 to 4 days after culturing the cells, the adherent cells filled 70-80% of the flask. Cells were passaged up to 14 times with normal morphology. To check the speed of cell growth, this test was repeated in passages 2, 4, and 8 in order to investigate the decrease in the ability of cells to grow with increasing age. The average cell growth rate (PDT) for passages 2, 4, and 8 was 37.03, 60.92, and 101.42%, respectively, which indicates the relationship between stem cells' ability to reproduce and self-renew with their age. After 9 days of cell culture, the number of colonies formed from passage 2 and 5 with concentrations of 175, 350, and 520 cells per 2 cm in 6-well plates were counted as 22, 62 and 84, respectively. Conclusion: The results of this research showed that mesenchymal stem cells extracted from the fat tissue of laying hens have the ability to maintain their basic characteristics during multiple cell divisions and can maintain their morphological structure and specific characteristics such as growth elated function

Introduction: Zinc is an essential trace element involved in different physiological functions. During pregnancy, it plays a crucial role in healthy embryogenesis. Abortion is the most severe problem associated with early pregnancy complications. This study aims to compare the levels of Zn in mothers with and without abortion. Methods: This study is a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies published between 1980 and 2022 in PubMed, Science Direct, Pro Quest, Wiley, Web of Science, and Scopus databases. The search was conducted using both main and Mesh keywords, specifically targeting terms related to abortion, pregnancy loss, and zinc. Heterogeneity in the studies included in the meta-analysis was evaluated using statistical tests such as the chi-square test, I2, and forest plots. Publication bias was assessed using Begg's and Egger's tests. All analyses were conducted using Stata 15, and statistical significance was considered at p

ABSTRACT: Declining semen quality will have a negative impact on the fertility of aged roosters. Various factors influence this decrease in quality. This study was conducted to investigate the effects of different levels of Moringa plant extract on semen characteristics, fertility, and hatchability in aged broiler breeder roosters. A total of 24 roosters were fed 1 of 4 dietary supplements for 10 wk: Control, 100 μL/kg (Moringa oleifera leaf extract [MOLE]-100), 200 μL/kg (MOLE-200), or 400 μL/kg body weight (MOLE-400) of Moringa oleifera extract. Results showed supplementation with MOLE-200 significantly improved (P < 0.05) semen concentration, total motility, progressive motility, sperm membrane integrity compared to other treatments. However, semen volume and body weight were unaffected (P > 0.05). Sperm lipid peroxidation, as indicated by malondialdehyde concentration, was lowest in MOLE-200. There was a significant difference observed among the treatments in terms of total antioxidant capacity (TAC) results. The testosterone concentration in the MOLE-200 treatment was significantly higher than the other treatments (P < 0.05). However, no significant differences were observed in the levels of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) hormones among the experimental treatments. Fertility and hatchability rates were measured at the end of the trial. Fertility, defined as the number of fertilized eggs, was greatest in the MOLE-200 treatment compared to the other treatments. Similarly, hatchability (hatched chicks/fertilized eggs %) was highest at 88.02% for MOLE-200. In conclusion, dietary supplementation with M. oleifera extract improved semen quality, fertility, and hatchability in aged broiler breeder roosters.

Abstract Due to the increasing demand for electrical energy, efforts to increase the thermal efficiency of the steam and gas power plants have led to extensive reform in these cycles. One of these common reforms is employing a conventional combined gas‐steam cycle. In combined cycle power plants that are built to produce power, a significant portion of the input energy is lost. In this research to achieve the thermodynamic properties of a combined cycle power plant after modeling the cycle and determining the cycle potential independent variables, multiobjective optimization by imposing restrictions on cost functions and changing them concerning exergy efficiency has been analyzed. The results show that increasing the parameters of superheated temperature, pinch point temperature difference, pump exhaust pressure, and condenser inlet flow rate improves the system performance and increases exergy efficiency. It is shown by two‐objective optimization that when costs are increased up to 40%, exergy efficiency is increased, and when an increase is more than 40% repeated results would be obtained. Applying costs lower than 5% is not considered according to software limitations. Also, the results show that it is possible to increase exergy efficiency up to 79.7% with a 40% investment cost.

Purpose: Irrigation with saline water and poor quality and fertility of the soil are the most important factors limiting the growth, establishment, and yield of pistachio trees in many pistachio farming areas of Iran. In addition, phosphorus plays an important role in plant growth, especially under environmental stress conditions. Thus, the purpose of this experiment is to investigate the role of P use in improving the growth of pistachio seedlings at different levels of irrigation water salinity. Research method: A greenhouse study was conducted as a factorial combination based on a completely randomized design with three replications. The treatments include two levels of P [Control (P0) and 30 mg kg-1 soil (P1) as triple superphosphate] and three levels of irrigation water salinity (0, 5, and 10 dS m-1). Findings: Irrigation with saline water (10 dS.m-1) significantly decreased the shoot dry weight (94%), root dry weight (64%), leaf area (62%), plant height (35%), shoot and root P content (41% and 52%), shoot K content (40%) and shoot and root K/Na (85% and 28%) of pistachio seedlings. However, P application increased the growth parameters and the concentration of P and K elements in the pistachio seedlings shoot and root under water salinity stress. Research limitations: No limitations were encountered. Originality/Value: According to the results of this experiment, phosphorus application increased the growth of pistachio seedlings in saline condition. Therefore, according to soil and water salinity in pistachio farming areas of Iran, optimal nutrition with nutrients such as P can increase the tolerance of pistachio seedlings to salinity stress and their establishment.

Background. Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer in men and the fifth leading cause of death worldwide. Our aim in this study was to investigate the relationship between exposure to cadmium and the incidence of prostate cancer through conducting a systematic review and meta-analysis method. Methods. The Studies that investigated the relationship between cadmium and prostate cancer were searched and retrieved from the international databases until May 2022. (x2) and (I2) statistical tests were used respectively to determine the presence and size of heterogeneity; Egger's and Bagg's tests were used to determine the existence of diffusion bias; and meta-regression and sensitivity analysis were used to identify the source of heterogeneity. All analyses were performed by Stata (Version 15) statistical software. Results. It was observed that the relative risk of prostate cancer occurrence compared to the base group, in people exposed/exposed to a dose higher than the base level was equal to 1.05(95% CI:0.94-1.17; P=0.372); Meanwhile, no statistically significant relationship was observed between exposure to cadmium or exposure levels exceeding the baseline and prostate cancer. According to the results of Egger's test (P = 0.989) and Begg's (P= 0.787), diffusion distortion was not observed in this study. Conclusion. Based on the available evidence, although exposure to cadmium leads to an increase in the risk of prostate cancer, this risk increase is not statistically significant. Practical Implications. The World Health Organization should think with a more serious approach to the relationship between environmental health and cancers.

Abstract While trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX) is the first-line therapy of Stenotrophomonas maltophilia infections, colistin is one of the therapeutic options in cases of allergy or resistance to TMP-SMX. However, understanding the global status of resistance to colistin amongst S. maltophilia isolates could be helpful for appropriate antibiotic prescription. This study aimed to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis to examine the prevalence of colistin resistance in clinical S. maltophilia isolates worldwide. According to eligibility criteria, a total of 61 studies were included in the analysis. The pooled prevalence for colistin resistance was 42% (95% CI: 35-49%), ranging from 0.1 to 97%. Subgroups analysis indicated that, the pooled prevalence of colistin resistance was 44% (95% CI: 29-60%) in 15 studies during 2000–2010, and it was estimated to be 41% (95% CI: 33-50%) in 46 articles from 2011 to 2021. It was 46% (95% CI: 35-58%) in the studies that used broth microdilution method, and 39% (95% CI: 30-49%) in the studies with other used methods. The resistance rate in Asian countries was 45% (95% CI: 31-60%), in European countries was 45% (95% CI: 34-56%) and in the countries of North and South America was 33% (95% CI: 20-46%). Our review showed notable resistance to colistin in clinical S. maltophilia isolates. Given the estimated resistance rates, alternative antibiotics could be preferred to treat serious infections due to S. maltophilia.

IntroductionIn recent years, several studies have reported on the relationship between diabetes and carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). However, due to their contradictory results, a systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted to investigate this subject.MethodsThis study is a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies published in ISI Web of Science, Scopus, PubMed, Cochrane, Google Scholar, and Embase databases. Heterogeneity in the studies included in the meta-analysis was evaluated using statistical tests such as the Chi-square test, I2, and forest plots. Publication bias was assessed using Begg's and Egger's tests.ResultsThis investigation analyzed data from 42 studies conducted between 1985 and 2022, with a total of 3,377,816 participants. The meta-analysis demonstrated that the odds ratio (OR) of CTS in participants with a history of diabetes compared to those without was 1.90 (95% CI: 1.64-2.21; P-value < 0.001). Given that publication bias was observed in this study (Begg's test P-value = 0.01), the modified OR was calculated with consideration of missed studies, which was 1.68 (95% CI: 1.45-1.94; P-value < 0.001).ConclusionThe results of this study suggest that diabetic patients have 90% higher odds of developing CTS compared to non-diabetic individuals, which is statistically significant.

Introduction: Prior studies on the association between erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs) and cardiovascular mortality in hemodialysis patients have yielded conflicting findings. We aimed to clarify this relationship through a systematic review and meta-analysis of current evidence. Methods: We comprehensively searched major databases for observational and interventional studies on ESA use and cardiovascular mortality in hemodialysis patients published from 1980 to September 2023. Pooled risk ratios (RR) with 95 % confidence intervals (CI) were calculated using random-effects models. Sources of heterogeneity were explored through subgroup analyses and meta-regression. The study data were analyzed using Stata 15 software. Findings: Upon conducting the initial search, we extracted 792 articles and, after screening and considering the research criteria, 17 studies with 372,156 participants were included in the meta-analysis. Overall, ESA use was associated with a 27 % increased risk of cardiovascular mortality (RR 1.27, 95 % CI: 1.15–1.40, p

Students’ engagement is a fundamental challenge in large classrooms in higher education. In recent years, innovative technologies such as electronic learning and online polling platforms have made learning more engaging, effective, and interactive. By using these platforms, educators can create more inclusive and enriching learning environments. This paper presents a novel approach in which an online technology is employed to enhance students’ learning experience. In this approach, features of an online polling platform, i.e., Slido, are employed to enhance students’ engagement in an engineering module, i.e., ‘Mechanics of Solids’, which is recognised as a fundamentally challenging module with difficult subjects. This study investigates how the interactive features of such technologies, such as real-time polls, question and answer (Q&A) sessions, and quizzes, can provide a more active and practical learning environment by improving student engagement in the classroom. In total, six online polls were designed: one for ice-breaking, two on the topics of shear forces and bending moment, two on stresses, and one on deflection. Each poll was presented to the students, and they participated in them by scanning a QR code or typing the poll’s code online. The rate of students’ participation in polls is extensively discussed to show the effectiveness of the proposed method. The findings of this study show a significant increase in student participation in classroom activities compared to traditional methods. Student feedback also indicates a positive learning experience with the use of the proposed approach. It is shown that the proposed approach has the potential to transform the way engineering students engage with challenging subjects, leading to enhanced learning outcomes and a more positive learning experience.

Simplified methods are often used for load estimations during the initial design of the foundations of offshore wind turbines (OWTs). However, the reliability of simplified methods for designing different OWTs needs to be studied. This paper provides a comparative study to evaluate the reliability of simplified approaches. The foundation loads are calculated for OWTs at the mudline level using a simplified approach and OpenFAST simulations and compared. Three OWTs, NREL 5 MW, DTU 10 MW, and IEA 15 MW, are used as reference models. An Extreme Turbulence Model wind load at a rated wind speed, combined with a 50-year Extreme Wave Height (EWH) and Extreme Operating Gust (EOG) wind load and a 1-year maximum wave height are used as the load combinations in this study. In addition, the extreme loads are calculated using both approaches for various metocean data from five different wind farms. Further, the pile penetration lengths calculated using the mudline loads via two methods are compared. The results show that the simplified method provides conservative results for the estimated loads compared to the OpenFAST results, where the extent of conservativism is studied. For example, the bending moment and shear force at the mudline using the simplified approach are 23% to 69% and 32% to 53% higher compared to the OpenFAST results, respectively. In addition, the results show that the simplified approach can be effectively used during the initial phases of monopile foundation design by using factors such as 1.5 and 2 for the shear force and bending moment, respectively.

Abstract Background Tinnitus impact on persons’ lifestyle, function, and emotion is of significant importance that has been the leader for conducting an increasing amount of research in the field of tinnitus pathophysiology, assessment, and management. Binaural beats (BB) are one of acoustic neuromodulation approaches used in psychological disorders, such as distress and anxiety. Thus, we hypothesized that binaural beat could be helpful in the relief of tinnitus distress and annoyance. Methods Seventeen chronic tinnitus subjects participated in this quasi-experimental (quantitative research) study. In this study, the effect of binaural beat stimuli was evaluated subjectively using the tinnitus handicap inventory (THI) scores, the visual analog scale for loudness and annoyance (VAS_L, VAS_A), and objectively by the 40-Hz ASSR after 1 month of listening to binaural beats, and the correlation between these two assessments was evaluated. Results After 1 month of binaural beat stimuli listening, all of the subjective findings were significantly improved, and the amplitude of 40-Hz ASSR was increased in the right auditory and anterior frontal regions at 2000-Hz carrier frequency. Besides, there was a high correlation between the decreasing of the subjective scores with the rising of the amplitude of 40-Hz ASSR. Conclusion The use of binaural beat as an acoustic neuromodulation method for tinnitus management may be recommended according to the current study findings. However, more investigations on the effectiveness supported by data from controlled clinical trials and more correlations with ASSR alteration are highly suggested.

Background: Disturbance in relationships is the basis and foundation of emotional disorders. Due to the growth of mood and communication problems in families, the concern about the quality of the parent-child relationships during adolescence has increased significantly in recent years. Aims: Considering the importance of the role of attachment in solving the communication problems of families, the present study was conducted to investigate the effectiveness of a therapeutic program developed based on attachment and by Iranian culture in improving the relationship between depressed and anxious adolescents and their parents. Methods: This research method was semi-experimental with a pre-test, post-test design with a control group, and a 6-week follow-up using a random selection of group members. The statistical population of the present study was 93 depressed and anxious teenagers visiting Rasht counseling centers in the age group of 14 to 18 years; based on the screening program (interview and implementation of the DASS-21 test), 48 people were selected and randomly replaced in the experimental and control groups. The experimental group received the indigenous program of attachment-based intervention developed by Diamond, Diamond, & Levy (2014). Analysis of variance with repeated measurements was used to analyze the data. Results: The results showed that the intervention used caused a significant difference in the improvement of the relationship between the test group and the control group, which indicates the effect of the intervention and the family therapy program developed based on attachment, in improving the communication context between depressed and anxious teenagers and their parents, and the effect of this The intervention did not return in the follow-up phase and remained stable. Conclusion: Considering that the developed treatment provides useful solutions for the quality of the attachment relationship and improving the communication between teenagers and their parents, this program can be considered an effective treatment method.

Background: Research anxiety and academic self-concept are among the factors that can be effective in improving the level of students’ capabilities in research in the field of medical education.Objectives: The present study was conducted to determine the relationship between research anxiety and academic self-concept in master’s and doctoral students of Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences.Methods: This cross-sectional descriptive-analytical research was conducted on 102 graduate students of Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences in the master’s and doctoral degrees in 2019. Sampling was performed using a convenience method. The data collection tool included the Higgins Research Anxiety Inventory and the Academic Self-Concept Questionnaire (ASCQ). The data were analyzed by calculating the mean and standard deviation, the independent t-test, and the Pearson correlation coefficient in SPSS software.Results: In master’s students, research anxiety was inversely and significantly correlated with academic self-concept (r = -0.339, P = 0.002) and academic self-confidence (r = -0.425, P < 0.001). Also, academic self-concept was directly and significantly associated with academic self-confidence (r = 0.876, P < 0.001) and academic effort (r = 0.821, P < 0.001). In doctoral students, academic self-concept also showed a direct and significant association with academic self-confidence (r = 0.835, P < 0.001) and academic effort (r = -0.753, P < 0.001).Conclusion: Research anxiety was associated with academic self-concept in master’s students of Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, but such a relationship was not found in doctoral students.

Abstract Background Human immunodeficiency virus and acquired immune deficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS) is still among the leading causes of disease burden and mortality in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), and the world is not on track to meet targets set for ending the epidemic by the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Precise HIV burden information is critical for effective geographic and epidemiological targeting of prevention and treatment interventions. Age- and sex-specific HIV prevalence estimates are widely available at the national level, and region-wide local estimates were recently published for adults overall. We add further dimensionality to previous analyses by estimating HIV prevalence at local scales, stratified into sex-specific 5-year age groups for adults ages 15–59 years across SSA. Methods We analyzed data from 91 seroprevalence surveys and sentinel surveillance among antenatal care clinic (ANC) attendees using model-based geostatistical methods to produce estimates of HIV prevalence across 43 countries in SSA, from years 2000 to 2018, at a 5 × 5-km resolution and presented among second administrative level (typically districts or counties) units. Results We found substantial variation in HIV prevalence across localities, ages, and sexes that have been masked in earlier analyses. Within-country variation in prevalence in 2018 was a median 3.5 times greater across ages and sexes, compared to for all adults combined. We note large within-district prevalence differences between age groups: for men, 50% of districts displayed at least a 14-fold difference between age groups with the highest and lowest prevalence, and at least a 9-fold difference for women. Prevalence trends also varied over time; between 2000 and 2018, 70% of all districts saw a reduction in prevalence greater than five percentage points in at least one sex and age group. Meanwhile, over 30% of all districts saw at least a five percentage point prevalence increase in one or more sex and age group. Conclusions As the HIV epidemic persists and evolves in SSA, geographic and demographic shifts in prevention and treatment efforts are necessary. These estimates offer epidemiologically informative detail to better guide more targeted interventions, vital for combating HIV in SSA.

Objective: The purpose of the current study was to investigate the effectiveness of a social cognitive theory-based distance educational intervention on anxiety in families of patients with COVID 19. Methods: This interventional study was conducted on families of patients with COVID-19 in Shahrekord, Iran in 2021. Based on the list received from the health center, 100 adult members from families with Covid-19 patients randomly were selected and assigned to the intervention and the control groups (50 per each group). The intervention group received a distance education framed as the structure of social cognitive theory while the control group received some educational material not related to the study by sending pamphlets, educational materials through the What Sapp group. The data used in the study were collected at three stages, including before the intervention, immediately after, and three months after the intervention. Using SPSS software version 25, the data were analyzed Results: Before the intervention, there were no significant differences between the study groups in terms of the mean scores of the constructs of social cognitive theory and anxiety. However, after the intervention and three months after trainings the mean scores of the constructs of social cognitive theory increased significantly in experimental group. The mean scores of anxiety in the experimental group also decreased significantly three months after trainings. Conclusion: Distance training based on the social cognitive theory was effective in decreasing anxiety in families of patients with Covid-19.

In this research, we try to improve the performance of ultraviolet (UV) photodetector based on ZnO nanorods through decoration with Au nanoparticles. One-dimensional ZnO nanorods were grown on the quartz substrates by the vapor phase transport (VPT) method. Then, Au nanoparticles by depositing a thin nanometric Au layer with thicknesses 3, 6, 9, and 12 nm via sputtering technique and a heating process were coated on the ZnO nanorods. The morphology and structure of the samples were characterized by using a Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) and X-ray diffractometer (XRD). The results showed formation of rather aligned ZnO nanorods with wurtzite hexagonal crystalline structure and preferred orientation along the c-axis which are coated with Au nanoparticles. The obtained data from measuring ultraviolet photoresponse shows that the decorated sample with 9 nm thick Au film possesses a higher on/off ratio (6.5), responsivity (568 ± 33 mA/W), and faster rise and decay times. In addition, with presence of Au nanoparticles, responsivity in the visible region (λ= 520 nm) increased from 6 ±0.5 mA/W to 19±1 mA/W. This improved detecting behavior results from Localized Surface Plasmons (LSPs) of the Au nanoparticles and the formation of localized Schottky barriers between Au nanoparticles and ZnO.

Supplement of ω-3 fatty acids can decrease the harmful effects of stress. However, the potential molecular mechanisms that are modulated by dietary ω-3 fatty acids in laying hens under stress remain unknown. Hence, RNA-sequencing (RNA-Seq) technology was used to gain new insights into different gene expression profiles and potential pathways involved in response to stress in the liver of 35-week-old Lohmann LSL-Lite laying hens supplemented with ω-3. Three groups including control (non-stress), stress, and stress_ω-3 fatty acids (three layers per each group) were applied. A total of 1,321 genes were detected as differentially expressed genes of which 701, 1,049, and 86 DEGs belonged to stress vs. control, stress_ω-3 vs. control, and stress vs. stress_ω-3 pairwise comparisons, respectively. Gene ontology and KEGG pathway analysis indicated that the DEGs were enriched in particular regulation of steroid and cholesterol biosynthetic process, fatty acid degradation, AMPK signaling pathway, fatty acid biosynthesis, and immune response. Our data represented a promising approach regarding the importance of ω-3 as anxiolytic and anti-stress. In this context, UNC13B and ADRA1B genes were downregulated in the stress_ω-3 group compared to the stress group, which are associated with decreased activity of glutamatergic stimulatory neurons and probably play important role in facilitating the response to stress. This study extends the current understanding of the liver transcriptome response to physiological stress, and provides new insights into the molecular responses to stress in laying hens fed a diet supplemented with ω-3 fatty acids.

Offshore wind energy is considered as one of the most promising resources of clean and renewable energy to replace fossil fuels. Additionally, its cost is expected to be lower than onshore wind energy as the technology matures. Offshore wind turbines (OWTs) normally operate in harsh ocean environments, which could impact their structural integrity. Scour erosion around foundations of OWTs can substantially change the overall stiffness of these structures and shorten their lifetime. Currently, there are a limited number of studies on countermeasures and their engineering requirements for decreasing the scouring effect; this is due to their different hydraulic circumstances, such as their stability, reliability, and resistance capacity. To this end, advancements in scour protection measures in the offshore energy sector are evaluated in this paper through a thorough and critical review following the PRISMA systematic literature mapping approach. This includes 68 papers on scour protection and over 30 scour protection designs for various types of wind turbine foundations. Here, we aim to provide an overview of the latest scouring protection measures and their comprehensive assessment, as well as their prospects and future challenges. The findings of this study will provide key insights into scour protection measures for OWTs and will subsequently contribute to the future growth of the offshore renewable energy sector.

In recent years, there has been a notable surge in investments directed towards developing new railway lines and revitalising existing ones, reflecting a global commitment to enhance transportation infrastructure [...]

This manuscript aims to provide an update on the current status of COVID-19 worldwide and the necessary measures to be taken to prevent an increase in the number of cases in the future. As we already know, COVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), which was first identified in December 2019 in Wuhan, China. Since then, the virus has spread globally, causing a pandemic that has affected millions of people. As of July 30, 2023, over 490 million confirmed cases and more than 6.1 million deaths (a case fatality rate of 1.24%) have been recorded worldwide. On May 5, 2023, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared an end to COVID-19 as a global public health emergency. Despite efforts to control the spread of the virus, significant challenges still need to be addressed. A range of measures should be implemented to prevent further increases in new cases of COVID-19, mortality, and economic, social, and mental-psychological problems. Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent severe disease and death from COVID-19, and it is crucial to increase vaccine coverage worldwide. Countries successfully controlling the pandemic have implemented comprehensive vaccination programs, including outreach to underserved communities.

Objectives: Auditory processing disorder (APD) is due to the deficits in perceptual processing of acoustic information in the auditory system, characterized by poor speech perception of noise, regardless of normal hearing. The variability in speech function of APD children can be partly explained by changes in the encoding of spectro-temporal modulations (STMs) which have been overlooked, despite their significance. Given that enhancing STM sensitivity and its processing can be an appropriate way to improve the listener’s ability to retrieve and integrate speech segments covered by noise, we decided to evaluate the effects of STM-based auditory training on speech perception in noise and the reliability of this training in children with APD. Methods: Thirty-five children with APD (8-12 years old) were randomly divided into the training (n=17) and control groups (n=18) to evaluate the effectiveness and reliability of STM training on speech in noise perception. The intervention group was trained to detect STM by 120 trials every day for ten days. The STM detection thresholds and speech perception in noise were evaluated before and immediately after the finalization of formal training sessions in both groups. To address the training reliability, the tests were repeated one month after practice in the training group. Results: Following the completion of STM auditory training, the trained APD children improved notably in STM detection tasks and speech in noise tests (P0.05), but the word in the noise test, especially in the right ear, was not retained (P

Objectives: Eye infections can be caused by several microorganisms and the most common causative bacterial agents are staphylococci, streptococci, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, viridans group streptococci, and P. aeruginosa as the cause of ocular infections in Iran. Methods: We conducted a systematic search on the studies published by Iranian authors from January 2000 to December 2020 in Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, and Embase. Eligible studies were selected according to the defined inclusion/exclusion criteria. Statistical heterogeneity between and within groups was estimated by the Q-statistic and I2 index. The funnel plots, Duval and Tweedie trim, and fill methods were obtained to evaluate the evidence of publication bias. Results: Twenty-seven studies were included in this review. According to the meta-analysis results, the prevalence of S.epidermidis was 19.1% (95% CI: 12.5–28.1). It was estimated 6.9% (95% CI: 4.4–10.6), 6.7% (95% CI: 4.6–9.6), and 3.3% (95% CI: 1.8–5.8) for P.aeruginosa, S. aureus, and viridans streptococci, respectively. Conclusions: S. epidermidis is the prevalent bacterial agents responsible for eye-associated infections in Iran.

Summary: Background: The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted gaps in health surveillance systems, disease prevention, and treatment globally. Among the many factors that might have led to these gaps is the issue of the financing of national health systems, especially in low-income and middle-income countries (LMICs), as well as a robust global system for pandemic preparedness. We aimed to provide a comparative assessment of global health spending at the onset of the pandemic; characterise the amount of development assistance for pandemic preparedness and response disbursed in the first 2 years of the COVID-19 pandemic; and examine expectations for future health spending and put into context the expected need for investment in pandemic preparedness. Methods: In this analysis of global health spending between 1990 and 2021, and prediction from 2021 to 2026, we estimated four sources of health spending: development assistance for health (DAH), government spending, out-of-pocket spending, and prepaid private spending across 204 countries and territories. We used the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD)'s Creditor Reporting System (CRS) and the WHO Global Health Expenditure Database (GHED) to estimate spending. We estimated development assistance for general health, COVID-19 response, and pandemic preparedness and response using a keyword search. Health spending estimates were combined with estimates of resources needed for pandemic prevention and preparedness to analyse future health spending patterns, relative to need. Findings: In 2019, at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, US$9·2 trillion (95% uncertainty interval [UI] 9·1–9·3) was spent on health worldwide. We found great disparities in the amount of resources devoted to health, with high-income countries spending $7·3 trillion (95% UI 7·2–7·4) in 2019; 293·7 times the $24·8 billion (95% UI 24·3–25·3) spent by low-income countries in 2019. That same year, $43·1 billion in development assistance was provided to maintain or improve health. The pandemic led to an unprecedented increase in development assistance targeted towards health; in 2020 and 2021, $1·8 billion in DAH contributions was provided towards pandemic preparedness in LMICs, and $37·8 billion was provided for the health-related COVID-19 response. Although the support for pandemic preparedness is 12·2% of the recommended target by the High-Level Independent Panel (HLIP), the support provided for the health-related COVID-19 response is 252·2% of the recommended target. Additionally, projected spending estimates suggest that between 2022 and 2026, governments in 17 (95% UI 11–21) of the 137 LMICs will observe an increase in national government health spending equivalent to an addition of 1% of GDP, as recommended by the HLIP. Interpretation: There was an unprecedented scale-up in DAH in 2020 and 2021. We have a unique opportunity at this time to sustain funding for crucial global health functions, including pandemic preparedness. However, historical patterns of underfunding of pandemic preparedness suggest that deliberate effort must be made to ensure funding is maintained. Funding: Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

Introduction: This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of online acceptance and commitment therapy and behavioral activation therapy on repetitive negative thinking in obsessive patients. Materials and Methods: In this study, 45 obsessive-compulsive patients who were referred to psychotherapy clinics in Mashhad city, Iran in 2020 were selected and randomly divided into 3 equal groups (2 experimental groups and one control group). They responded to McEvoy et al. (2010) and the obsessive-compulsive disorder questionnaire of Maudsley (1997). The first experimental group underwent eight sessions of an online Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and the second experimental group underwent eight sessions of ninety-minute group behavioral activation therapy. The control group did not receive any intervention. The data analyzed through descriptive statistics, ANOVA, Chi-square tests, Shapiro-Wilk test, repeated measures analysis of variance, and SPSS software version 22. Results: The results showed that the mean of negative thinking in the ACT group and behavioral activation in the post-test was significantly decreased (P< 0.05). In the ACT group, the effect of intervention was persistent in the follow-up. Conclusion: The results showed that both therapies were effective on repetitive negative thinking in obsessive-compulsive individuals, but online ACT intervention was significantly more effective than behavioral activation therapy.

Introduction: Despite increasing advances, various industries are still involved in various accidents caused by Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) risks. These accidents, in addition to human and environmental damage, impose high economic costs. Accordingly, risk identification in order to prevent losses and Unfavorable results of events are performed. Therefore, the health, safety and environmental hazards of the safety shoe industry were identified and evaluated. Methods: This descriptive study was conducted, in 2020, in one of the safety shoe industries using Failure Modes and Effects Analysis technique (FMEA). The FMEA team was first formed to collect the required information, and then, the potential hazards were identified and recorded. Then, the Risk Priority Number (RPN) was obtained by multiplying the three factors of risk severity, occurrence and detection. Finally, modifications were proposed for unacceptable risks. All calculations were performed by Excel. Results: In 204 risks were identified 40 potential hazards with RPN from 108 to 300 and 164 potential hazards with RPN from 12 to 100 were identified. Gas with RPN= 300 and accumulation of explosive gases and vapors with RPN= 270 and electricity with RPN= 252 also inadequate lighting had the lowest RPN of 12. Conclusion: The results of the present study show that FMEA is an appropriate method for identifying risks and assessing the risk of devices, equipment and machinery in the footwear industry that can identify and prioritize existing potential hazards.

Background and purpose: Appendicitis is the most common cause of acute abdominal pain requiring surgical intervention. Diagnostic tests with high accuracy could lead to immediate diagnosis and timely surgery could prevent further complications. This study was performed to assess the diagnostic value of serum fibrinogen level in diagnosis of acute appendicitis. Materials and methods: This cross-sectional diagnostic study was performed in patients (n=165) attending the emergency department in Sari Imam Khomeini Hospital with an initial diagnosis of appendicitis and available histopathologic examination results in 2016-2017. Fibrinogen levels were measured before surgery. Student's t test, Mann-Whitney test, and Chi-square were used to examine the relationship between fibrinogen level, demographic and clinical variables, acute appendicitis, and complicated/uncomplicated appendicitis. ROC Curve test was also performed and indicators associated with diagnostic accuracy were calculated. Results: The mean fibrinogen level in patients with normal appendices was 278.0±50.5, while it was 349.4 ± 68.7 in those with appendicitis (P

Objectives The current study was conducted to compare the perceptions of aging between young and adolescent individuals. The perception of aging is defined as the individual’s perception of one’s aging in their socio-cultural context. This concept subsumes all aspects of consciousness, perception, experience, assessment, interpretation, and cognition related to the process of aging. Methods & Materials This qualitative study was carried out according to the grounded theory methods in 2019 in Tehran, Iran. A total of 20 young (10 males) and 17 adolescent (8 females) participants were selected by purposive sampling, and the data were collected through semi-structured interviews until data saturation was reached. Results 121 concepts were selected, of which 83 were from interviews with adolescents and 37 from the young. After analysis and categorization of concepts, 32 subcategories were found, including 18 related to adolescents and 14 related to the young, and 5 main categories, with 3 and 2 categories related to adolescents and the young. Conclusion In comparing the pattern of perception of old age in adolescents and young people, although in terms of frequency and semantic diversity of categories, slight differences are observed in these two groups in terms of the process of formation and movement of the final pattern, no distinction is seen between the two groups.

BackgroundIn recent years, various studies have been conducted to investigate the relationship between erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs) and mortality in hemodialysis patients, who showed contradictory results. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the relationship between ESAs and mortality in hemodialysis patients.MethodsThe current study is a systematic review and meta-analysis based on observational and interventional studies published in the Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Science Direct, PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases between 1980 and the end of 2022. Jadad scale checklist and Newcastle Ottawa scale were used to evaluate the quality of articles. The study data were analyzed using Stata 15 software.ResultsIn the initial search, 3933 articles were extracted, and by screening and considering the research criteria, 68 studies were finally included in the meta-analysis. According to the meta-analysis results, the risk ratio (RR) of overall mortality in hemodialysis patients receiving ESAs was equal to 1.19 (95% CI: 1.16-1.23, P ≤ 0.001). The RR of mortality in patients aged 60 years and under was equal to 1.33 (1.15-1.55, P ≤ 0.001), in the age group over 60 years was equal to 1.13 (1.10-1.16, P ≤ 0.001), in randomized clinical trial studies was equal to 1.06 (0.80-1.40, P = 0.701), in cohort studies was equal to 1.20 (1.16-1.25, P ≤ 0.001), in American countries was equal to 1.19 (1.10-1.29, P ≤ 0.001), in Asian countries was equal to 1.15 (1.10-1.19, P ≤ 0.001), and in European countries was equal to 1.18 (1.05-1.34, P = 0.007).ConclusionThe results of the study show that receiving ESAs is associated with a 19% increase in the risk of overall mortality in hemodialysis patients.

Today, eliminating the effects of cyber-attacks is essential for stability and synchronization in island microgrids. In this article, island microgrid has been investigated from the view of multiagent systems and graph theory. This study uses the cooperative distributed hierarchical controller in two primary and secondary layers to control the hijacking cyber-attack in the islanded microgrid. Hijacking attacks’ impact on the control of distributed generators (DGs) has been mathematically formulated, and a suitable controller has been designed. Then, global stability and simultaneous synchronization of the frequency and voltage of the microgrid in the presence of a hijacking attack have been investigated by introducing the new Lyapunov function and proving the appropriate theorems. A case study has been simulated in MATLAB/Simulink in a microgrid. Also the effects of false data injection (and its comparison with the hijacking attack) and the time delay in the communication channel of the controller have been discussed. The theory and simulation results confirm the performance of the designed controller in solving this cyber-attack and other disturbances compared to other controllers.