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Abstract Owning pets offers various potential health benefits; however, it can be associated with gastrointestinal illnesses due to poor food safety knowledge and practices. This study aimed to evaluate the level of food safety knowledge and practices among pet owners in Lebanon, exploring the association between their knowledge/practices and socio-demographic characteristics. The participants included 300 pet owners, representing various genders, ages, educational levels, educational backgrounds, and incomes. They completed a questionnaire of 72 food handling practices and knowledge questions related to preparation, cross-contamination, storage and hygiene. In parallel, 300 non-pet owners with comparable sociodemographic characteristics to pet owners (control group) completed the questionnaire. On average, food safety knowledge scores were 62.1 ± 14.9% and 58.7 ± 15.5% among pet and non-pet owners, respectively, and the difference was significant (p = 0.05). On the other hand, mean food safety practice scores were 41.3 ± 14.8% and 40.4 ± 15.3% among pet and non-pet owners, respectively, and the difference was not significant (p = 0.41). In the food safety knowledge part, non-pet owners who were young, high income, university graduate, and from health-related majors scored significantly (p

Abstract Cartilage tissue engineering aims to develop functional substitutes for treating cartilage defects and osteoarthritis. Traditional two-dimensional (2D) cell culture systems lack the complexity of native cartilage, leading to the development of 3D regenerative cartilage models. In this study, we developed a 3D model using Gelatin Methacryloyl (GelMA)-based hydrogels seeded with Y201 cells, a bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell line. The model investigated chondrogenic differentiation potential in response to Wnt3a stimulation within the GelMA scaffold and validated using known chondrogenic agonists. Y201 cells demonstrated suitability for the model, with increased proteoglycan content and upregulated chondrogenic marker expression under chondrogenic conditions. Wnt3a enhanced cell proliferation, indicating activation of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway, which plays a role in cartilage development. GelMA hydrogels provided an optimal scaffold, supporting cell viability and proliferation. The 3D model exhibited consistent responses to chondrogenic agonists, with TGF-β3 enhancing cartilage-specific extracellular matrix (ECM) production and chondrogenic differentiation. The combination of Wnt3a and TGF-β3 showed synergistic effects, promoting chondrogenic differentiation and ECM production. This study presents a 3D regenerative cartilage model with potential for investigating cartilage biology, disease mechanisms, and drug screening. The model provides insights into complex cartilage regeneration mechanisms and offers a platform for developing therapeutic approaches for cartilage repair and osteoarthritis treatment.

Diabetes Mellitus (DM) disrupts the body's capability to control blood glucose statuses. Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) arises from inadequate insulin production and is treated with insulin replacement therapy. Stem cell therapy is a hopeful treatment for T1DM that involves using adult stem cells to generate insulin-producing cells (IPCs). Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are particularly advantageous for generating IPCs. The islet cells require interactions with the extracellular matrix for survival, which is lacking in conventional 2D culture systems. Natural or synthetic polymers create a supportive 3D microenvironment in tissue engineering. We aim to construct superior differentiation conditions employing polyethersulfone (PES)/Fish gelatin scaffolds to differentiate Wharton's jelly-derived mesenchymal stem cells (WJ-MSCs) to IPCs. In this study, the PES/fish gelatin scaffold (3D) was manufactured by electrospinning, and then its biocompatibility and non-toxicity were investigated by MTT assay. After that, scaffold-supportive effects on WJ-MSCs differentiation to IPCs were studied at the gene and protein levels. After exposure to the differentiation media, 2D and 3D (PES/Fish gelatin) cultured cells were slowly aggregated and developed spherical-shaped clusters. The viability of cells was found to be comparable in both 2D and 3D cultures. The gene expression analysis showed that efficiency of differentiation was more elevated in 3D culture. Additionally, ELISA results indicated that C-peptide and insulin release were more significant in 3D than in 2D culture. In conclusion, the PES/fish gelatin scaffold is highly promising for pancreatic tissue engineering because it supports the viability, growth, and differentiation of WJ-MSCs into IPCs.

Non-healing fractures, a global health concern arising from trauma, osteoporosis, and tumours, can lead to severe disabilities. Adenosine, integral to cellular energy metabolism, gains prominence in bone regeneration via adenosine A2B receptor activation. This study introduces a controlled-release system for localized adenosine delivery, fostering human mesenchymal stromal cell (hMSC) differentiation into functional bone cells. The study investigates how the ratio of lactic acid to glycolic acid in microparticles can influence adenosine release and explores the downstream effects on gene expression and metabolic profiles of osteogenic differentiation in hMSCs cultured in growth and osteoinductive media. Insights into adenosine-modulated signalling pathways during MSC differentiation, with osteogenic factors, provide a comprehensive understanding of the pathways involved. Analysing gene expression and metabolic profiles unravels adenosine's regulatory mechanisms in MSC differentiation. Sustained adenosine release from microparticles induces mineralization, synergizing with osteogenic media supplements, showcasing the potential of adenosine for treating critical bone defects and metabolic disorders. This study highlights the efficacy of a polymeric microparticle-based delivery system, offering novel strategies for bone repair. Unveiling adenosine's roles and associated signalling pathways advances our comprehension of molecular mechanisms steering bone regeneration, propelling innovative biomaterial, combined with metabolites, approaches for clinical use.

Biomass is an inexpensive adsorbent that has attracted considerable interest. The sol-gel process produced xerogel from Palm kernel shell biochar (PKSB). This study aims to synthesize and characterize palm kernel shell biochar xerogel (PKSBX) and compare it with commercial (AC). The synthesized xerogel, raw material, and AC were characterized using different characterization, including Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR), Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET), and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The FTIR spectrum analysis showed a wide range of bonds and confirmed the presence of C=C alkenes, amines N-H, and aromatic C-H functional groups. TGA analysis of samples was conducted at 10 ℃/min. The sample's thermal degradation undergoes several setups of loss mass. The degrades occurred between 50- 200 ℃ first setups, second between 200- 700℃, and third setups between 950- 1000 ℃. The surface morphological structure of each sample has been defined and compared using SEM data, which is further confirmed by XRD data. Based on the characterization findings, it can be determined that the xerogel obtained from the synthesis process using PKSB as the raw material exhibits favorable characteristics for its potential usage as an adsorbent.

Abstract Extensive research efforts have been dedicated to developing electrode materials with high capacity to address the increasing complexities arising from the energy crisis. Herein, a new nanocomposite was synthesized via the sol–gel method by immobilizing K6ZnW12O40 within the surface of NiZn2O4. ZnW12O40@NiZn2O4 was characterized by FT-IR, UV–Vis, XRD, SEM, EDX, BET, and TGA-DTG methods. The electrochemical characteristics of the materials were examined using cyclic voltammogram (CV) and charge–discharge chronopotentiometry (CHP) techniques. Multiple factors affecting the hydrogen storage capacity, including current density (j), surface area of the copper foam, and the consequences of repeated cycles of hydrogen adsorption–desorption were evaluated. The initial cycle led to an impressive hydrogen discharge capability of 340 mAh/g, which subsequently increased to 900 mAh/g after 20 cycles with a current density of 2 mA in 6.0 M KOH medium. The surface area and the electrocatalytic characteristics of the nanoparticles contribute to facilitate the formation of electrons and provide good diffusion channels for the movement of electrolyte ions throughout the charge–discharge procedure.

Abstract Background Heart failure (HF) is a major public health issue worldwide, affecting approximately 64.3 million people in 2017. Non-adherence to medication is a common and serious issue in the management of HF. However, new reminder systems utilizing mobile technology, such as text messaging, have shown promise in improving medication adherence. The purpose of this study was to compare the impact of tailored text messaging (TTM) and pillbox organizers on medication adherence in individuals with HF. Methods A randomized controlled trial was conducted, involving 189 eligible patients with HF who were randomly assigned to either the TTM, pillbox organizer, or control group. Medication adherence was evaluated using pill counting and the Medication Adherence Rating Scale (MARS) over a period of three months and compared across the groups. The data were analyzed using Kruskal-Wallis, Analysis of Variance (ANOVA), and Repeated Measures ANOVA tests. Results The results indicate that both the TTM and pillbox organizers groups had significantly higher medication adherence compared to the control group, as measured by pill counting (MD = 0.05, 95%CI = 0.03–0.06; p

Background: Nowadays, the quality of nursing care is one of the most essential factors in health services and patient care. The quality of end-of-life care is of high importance, especially in vulnerable groups such as children. In the final stages of life, the needs of patients and their companions, as well as stressful conditions cause avoidance of participation in treatment, and dissatisfaction of caregivers which can reduce the quality of patient care. The present study aimed to examine the quality of nursing care in children from the point of view of nurses in hospitals related to Birjand, Iran. Materials and methods: The present descriptive study was conducted on 350 nurses. The data collection tools used in this study were demographic questionnaire and Quality Patient Care Scale (QUALPAC). Results: A total of 270 completed questionnaires were entered into the statistical analysis. The average quality of nursing care score in dying children was 266.17 ± 27.79. Also, the results of the present study showed that the gender, age, marital status, and work experience of nurses have no significant effect on the quality of nursing care in dying children from the nurses’ viewpoint. Conclusion: The quality of nursing care of dying children from the point of view of nurses was satisfactory. Nurses reported that the physical dimension of nursing care had the highest quality and the psychosocial dimension had the lowest quality. Therefore, psychological support and follow-ups for improving social support for these clients are suggested to the nursing managers and healthcare administrators.

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact globally, presenting significant social and economic challenges. This study aims to explore the factors affecting mortality among hospitalized COVID-19 patients and construct a machine learning-based model to predict the risk of mortality. Methods: The study examined COVID-19 patients admitted to Imam Reza Hospital in Tabriz, Iran, between March 2020 and November 2021. The Elastic Net method was employed to identify and rank features associated with mortality risk. Subsequently, an artificial neural network (ANN) model was developed based on these features to predict mortality risk. The performance of the model was evaluated by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. Results: The study included 706 patients with 96 features, out of them 26 features were identified as crucial predictors of mortality. The ANN model, utilizing 20 of these features, achieved an area under the ROC curve (AUC) of 98.8 %, effectively stratifying patients by mortality risk. Conclusion: The developed model offers accurate and precipitous mortality risk predictions for COVID-19 patients, enhancing the responsiveness of healthcare systems to high-risk individuals.

Objective According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 1 billion people (approximately 15% of world population) live with disability. Also, about half of these people lack access to healthcare facilities. Therefore, providing timely healthcare services, especially rehabilitation, is of great significance for these people. The goal of the study was to determine the objectives and policies in the field of rehabilitation in middle- and high-income countries and compare them with Iran. Materials & Methods Based on available databases, a comprehensive review of documents, papers, and books was performed in the field of rehabilitation related to high- and middle-income countries. Results Due to a lack of coordinated services, inappropriate access, unplanned distribution, unclear service delivery levels, neglect of health promotion and prevention levels, lack of a transparent referral system, unclear insurance system, and weak financial resources, the need for a national program with a service integration approach is strongly felt. The review of the rehabilitation programs and documents in other countries help us to design a conceptual framework of the rehabilitation service model, which is based on three principles: Removing barriers and developing access to healthcare services and programs; strengthening and developing rehabilitation using technology, community-based support, and rehabilitation services; and promoting comparable international data collection on disability and supporting research on disability and related rehabilitation services. Conclusion The national rehabilitation program, with a service integration approach, provides a good platform for fair access to rehabilitation services for all people with disability. In this program, the health system is the most important reference to meet these needs. Therefore, it is suggested that this program pursue three main objectives: Fair promotion of the healthcare services of rehabilitation for recipients, improving the response to the needs of rehabilitation service recipients, and reducing the financial and social risks of service recipients.

Background: Failure to fulfill the physical and psychological needs of breast cancer patients and their partners can result in anxiety, depression, and marital problems. Aim: The present study was performed with aim to elucidate the experiences of breast cancer women regarding partner's unsupportive behaviors. Method: This qualitative study was conducted with a Dickelman descriptive phenomenological approach in the chemotherapy and oncology department of Shahid Ghazi Tabatabai and Shahid Madani hospitals of Tabriz city in 2021. A total of 9 female breast cancer patients were included. Individual in-depth interviews and note-taking were used to collect data using MAXQDA Software. The semi-structured interviews were used to collect data. Interviews were analyzed using the Dickelman, Allen, and Turner method. Results: A total of 1500 primary codes were obtained, and finally 3 main categories were extracted including financial inadequacy, emotional impoverishment and breakdown of shared life, and existential devaluation as a woman. Implications for Practice: The results showed need for the husband to pay more attention to the impact of his behavior on his wife; also talking about the problem on the part of the couple is the biggest factor in understanding the support that can be expressed. Also, men and women do not think the same in understanding the needs of their sick partner. Male caregivers are usually less understanding of their spouses. Therefore, health professionals should pay more attention and help men cope with this problem and bear the suffering of their wives.

Abstract In this research, a new and eco-friendly heterogeneous catalyst (ND@Tannicacid-Cu) was synthesized based on nanodiamond and copper tannic acid via esterification process. The as-prepared catalyst was characterized by Fourier transforms infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) methods. The catalytic efficacy of the intended catalyst was examined by one-step three-component reaction of 1,4-benzodiazepine derivatives from a mixture of ortho-phenylenediamine, aromatic aldehydes, and dimedone under mild conditions. In all instances, corresponding 2,4-benzodiazepines derivatives were synthesized with high efficiency, short reaction time, straightforward work up procedure, no requirement for column-chromatography, and cost-effective catalyst. The heterogeneous catalyst was easily recycled using fillers, and it can be reused for eight cycles without significantly diminishing its performance.

Abstract Characterization of the microbial activity impacts on transport and storage of hydrogen is a crucial aspect of successful Underground Hydrogen Storage (UHS). Microbes can use hydrogen for their metabolism, which can then lead to formation of biofilms. Biofilms can potentially alter the wettability of the system and, consequently, impact the flow dynamics and trapping mechanisms in the reservoir. In this study, we investigate the impact of microbial activity on wettability of the hydrogen/brine/rock system, using the captive-bubble cell experimental approach. Apparent contact angles are measured for bubbles of pure hydrogen in contact with a solid surface inside a cell filled with living brine which contains sulphate reducing microbes. To investigate the impact of surface roughness, two different solid samples are used: a “rough” Bentheimer Sandstone sample and a “smooth” pure Quartz sample. It is found that, in systems where buoyancy and interfacial forces are the main acting forces, the impact of biofilm formation on the apparent contact angle highly depends on the surface roughness. For the “rough” Bentheimer sandstone, the apparent contact angle was unchanged by biofilm formation, while for the smooth pure Quartz sample the apparent contact angle decreased significantly, making the system more water-wet. This decrease in apparent contact angle is in contrast with an earlier study present in the literature where a significant increase in contact angle due to microbial activity was reported. The wettability of the biofilm is mainly determined by the consistency of the Extracellular Polymeric Substances (EPS) which depends on the growth conditions in the system. Therefore, to determine the impact of microbial activity on the wettability during UHS will require accurate replication of the reservoir conditions including surface roughness, chemical composition of the brine, the microbial community, as well as temperature, pressure and pH-value conditions.

Background: Understanding the experiences of patients’ family members witnessing resuscitation helps develop care plans. Accordingly, this study aimed to explore the experiences of witnessing resuscitation among the patients’ family members.Methods: A total of 15 patients’ family members were interviewed over a 4-month period (from April to July 2019). The participants were recruited through purposive sampling, and they were enlisted from three educational hospitals in Tabriz. Data were analyzed using Smith’s interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) via the MAXQDA12 software.Results: Data analysis led to the identification of four main themes and nine subthemes. The main themes included “the insistence on being present”, “achieving calmness”, “partnership and collaboration” and “hindrance”.Conclusion: Although family members reported feelings of agitation towards the health professionals, there was also strong evidence of the benefits of witnessing resuscitation such as open communication, psychological support, and facilitating acceptance of the patient’s prognosis. The study highlighted the importance of developing formal policies based on a family-centered care (FCC) approach to observe family presence during resuscitation while maintaining the patient’s and family’s rights.

Abstract Introduction The age-standardized incidence rate for gastric cancer is estimated to be 11.1% worldwide and 39.1% for Ardabil province in northwest Iran. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) occur in coding and non-coding regions, contributing to cancer susceptibility. To identify SNPs predisposing individuals to gastric cancer in this region, we compared 263 variants between the Ardabil population and other populations. Materials and methods Whole exome sequencing was used to determine the distribution of variants in the genomic DNA of 150 volunteers (aged

Abstract Surfaces on transit vehicles are frequently touched and could potentially act as reservoirs for micro-organism transmission. Regular cleaning and disinfection to minimize the spread of micro-organisms is operationally challenging due to the need to keep vehicles in circulation. The application of copper (Cu) alloys to high- touch surfaces could help reduce the risk of cross-contamination, however, little is known about the durability and efficacy of engineered copper surfaces after prolonged use. Three Cu products (decal, thermal fabrication, and alloy covers) were assessed over a 12-month period. These Cu products were randomly installed on 110 stanchions on three buses and four train (SkyTrain) cars in Vancouver and three buses, two subway cars, and two streetcars in Toronto with mirrored control surfaces directly opposite. Bacterial counts (Colony forming units, CFU) and ATP bioluminescence (ATPB) were measured every two months after peak morning routes. Durability of the Cu products were assessed monthly through visual inspection and colorimetry assays or by ex-situ microscopy. Cu products on stanchions reduced the mean colony forming units (CFU) of all vehicles by 42.7% in the mean CFU (0.573 (CI 95% 0.453–0.726), p-value

Abstract Background Patients in the post-resuscitation period experience critical conditions and require high-quality care. Identifying the challenges that critical care nurses encounter when caring for resuscitated patients is essential for improving the quality of their care. Aim This study aimed to identify the challenges encountered by critical care nurses in providing care during the post-resuscitation period. Methods A qualitative study was conducted using semi-structured interviews. Sixteen nurses working in the intensive care units of three teaching hospitals were selected through purposive sampling. The Data collected were analyzed using qualitative content analysis. Results Participants experienced individual, interpersonal, and organizational challenges when providing post-resuscitation care. The most significant challenges include inadequate clinical knowledge and experience, poor management and communication skills, lack of support from nurse managers, role ambiguity, risk of violence, and inappropriate attitudes of physicians towards nurses’ roles. Additionally, nurses expressed a negative attitude towards resuscitated patients. Conclusion Critical care nurses face several challenges in providing care for resuscitated patients. To enhance the quality of post-resuscitation care, address the challenges effectively and improve long-time survival it is crucial to implement interventions such as In-service education, post-resuscitation briefing, promotion of interprofessional collaboration among healthcare teams, providing sufficient human resources, clarifying nurses’ roles in the post-resuscitation period and increasing support from nursing managers.

The rice blast disease caused by Pyricularia oryzae Cavara is among the most severe plant diseases in the world. The utilization of natural antagonists, such as fungal endophytes, can be a good method to control the spread of this disease. In the present study, 68 fungal isolates were obtained from 160 rice samples collected in Guilan province fields, Iran. Morphological and molecular characteristics were used for the identification of these fungi. According to the results, the fungal isolates were Alternaria citri (Penz.) Mussat, Alternaria infectoria Simmons, Aspergillus fumigatus Fresen, Fusarium verticillioides (Sacc.) Nirenberg, Trichoderma harzianum Rifai, Trichoderma virens (Mill., Giddens & Foster) Arx, Trichoderma viride Pers., Ulocladium consortiale (Thum) Simmons, and Pyricularia oryzae . Eight isolates that did not cause any plant disease were selected for biocontrol studies in vitro . The dual culture, culture filtrate, slide culture, and volatile metabolites methods were used in search of natural endophytic antagonists of Pyricularia oryzae . It was found that T. harzianum, T. virens, T. viride, A. fumigatus , and A. citri isolates caused the highest percentage of mycelial growth inhibition of P. oryzae in vitro . In the greenhouse experiments, all of the studied isolates reduced the P. oryzae disease rating, with T. harzianum isolate being the most effective antagonist (27.36% reduction in the disease rating), followed by T. virens, T. viride , and A. fumigatus (20.75%, 17.92%, and 16.98%, respectively). Furthermore, in greenhouse conditions, these antagonistic fungi increased the height, fresh weight, and dry weight of plants. The results of this research showed that there are various fungi in the natural flora of rice plants that possess potential biological properties against rice blast disease that can be implemented into practice.

Due to a synergy effect, using dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) plasma technology combined with catalysts for CO2 decomposition, a major contributor to global warming, is recognized as an effective approach to transforming CO2 into valuable products such as CO, which is a crucial feedstock for chemical synthesis. Herein, HKUST-1 was synthesized using the hydrothermal method for CO2 conversion in the DBD reactor. To enhance catalyst performance in the plasma region, HKUST-1 was treated with O2 plasma to increase its specific surface area. Additionally, HKUST-1 was calcined at 300 °C to produce the CuO/Cu2O catalyst. Since the recombination reaction in the CO2 conversion is increased at higher temperatures, the reactor heat is removed using fan cooling and a water circulation system. In the presence of the HKUST-1 catalyst, the CO2 conversion rate significantly increased by 132 %, 82 %, and 12 % in reactors operating without cooling, with fan cooling, and with water cooling circulation, respectively compared to the reactors without catalyst, at a flow rate of 50 ml/min and maximum input power. The catalysts have been characterized using a comprehensive suite of analytical techniques, including FTIR, XRD,TEM, SEM, EDS, and BET analysis. The BET analysis indicates that the specific surface area of HKUST-1 after O2 plasma treatment is increased by 52 %, which causes an increasing conversion rate of up to 18 %. The CuO/Cu2O catalyst demonstrated maximum CO2 conversion of 21 % at an input power of 140 W and achieved energy efficiency of 8.6 % at 40 W. The presence of oxygen vacancies within this catalyst enhances the process of CO2 decomposition.

Mayonnaise is a commonly used oil-in-water emulsion food product. Due to their toxicological properties/genotoxicity and carcinogenicity, chloropropanols’ oral exposure has raised concerns over the past decade. The present study reports the occurrence level of free forms of 3-chloropropane-1,2-diol (3-MCPD) and 1,3-dichloro-2-propanol (1,3-DCP) in mayonnaise samples and the risk of oral exposure to these chemicals through consumption of the analyzed samples. Mayonnaise (low- and high-fat, from 6 brands, totally 120 samples) were analyzed for 1,3-DCP and 3-MCPD by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The mean level of chemicals was higher in the high-fat samples, with no significant difference among the brands. Generally, 1,3-DCP level was significantly lower in both high-fat and low-fat samples compared to 3-MCPD. Hazard Index (HI) values calculated for oral exposure to 3-MCPD for Iranian adults using probabilistic methods, were less than 1.0, reflecting no major risk. In the Margin of Exposure scenario, low- and high-fat mayonnaise samples were of de minimis health concern at the 50th, 80th, and 95th centiles. Nevertheless, in order to safeguard consumer interests, it is imperative to implement online real-time methodologies for monitoring reactions that result in generation of thermal process contaminants such as 3-MCPD and 1,3-DCP, and to innovate novel technologies to minimize the occurrence of such chemicals while preserving both safety and sensory attributes.

The main aim of this study was to entrap a fat-soluble vitamin (D3) and Tannic acid (TA) in nanophytosomes (NPHYs) to improve their stability and controlled release. The effects of phosphatidyl choline: TA ratio (P1:T2, P1:T1, and P2:T1) and the presence of D3 on the transmission electron microscope (TEM), particle size distribution and span, zeta potential, turbidity, stability, pH, total phenolic content (TPC), encapsulation efficiency (EE), particle size, antioxidant activity and in vitro release of TA and D3 were studied. A fine dispersion with particle size less than 100 nm was achieved for all NPHYs. Based on TEM, all samples had a smooth, spherical surface and formed small vesicles. The zeta potential varied from -65.2 to -55.26 mV. The P1:T2-D sample had the highest polyphenol content and antioxidant activities. Based on the thermal stability results, all samples were stable up to 50 °C. The P2:T1-D sample had the highest EE values for both D3 and TA (93.70 and 92.22%, respectively) and the lowest release rate in gastric conditions. The presence of D3 did not affect the stability of NPHYs. Therefore, the incorporation of TA and D3 in NPHYs can be considered a promising strategy in the food and pharmaceutical industries due to the improved physical and biological stabilities.

Introduction Families with children who have cystic fibrosis (CF) face a multitude of challenges. They require complex and time-consuming daily care, various forms of knowledge and intricate care responsibilities. One of the most critical challenges that Iranian families of children with CF face is the lack of adequate support from health teams in the early stages of diagnosis, frequent hospitalisation and the postdischarge process. Unfortunately, limited studies have been conducted in this field, and the Iranian society lacks a comprehensive support programme for these families after leaving treatment centres or home care teams. Therefore, it is necessary to identify and redefine the needs of these families for better care and support in Iran.Methods and analysis A mixed-method research design with an exploratory sequential approach will be used in this study. The study consists of three stages: stage (1) the qualitative phase (conventional content analysis and scoping review); stage (2) the programme design phase (development of a support programme) and stage (3) the quantitative phase (validation of the programme through the Delphi method). In the first stage, data will be collected through interviews. Key concepts, evidence and gaps in research will also be identified, collected and analysed through a scoping review. In the second stage, a support programme will be designed based on the results of the content analysis of interviews and the findings from the scoping review. In the final phase, the study will aim to validate the designed programme through a Delphi study.Ethics and dissemination This study formed part of a Ph.D. degree and was approved by the ethics committee of Tabriz University of Medical Sciences (IR.TBZMED.REC.1402.395). Informed consent will be obtained from all study participants. Findings will be published in a peer-reviewed journal.

Background: Selenium and zinc play as antioxidants in biological systems, playing important roles in spermatogenesis and protecting against oxidative damage caused by oxygen radicals. This study aimed to investigate the effects of dietary intake of zinc and selenium, either separately or in combination, on antioxidant parameters in the blood and semen of ram. Methods: Twenty mature fat-tailed Sanjabi rams, weighing 50.01 ± 5.6 kg and 20 months of age, were randomly assigned to four different treatments for a period of 120 days (from July to November). The experimental groups included: 1) the basal diet (control group, with 0.11 mg.kg−1 selenium and 20.52 mg.kg−1 zinc) (C), 2) the basal diet supplemented with 0.3 mg.kg−1 selenium (Se), 3) the basal diet supplemented with 40 mg.kg−1 zinc (Zn), and 4) the basal diet supplemented with both selenium (0.3 mg.kg−1) and zinc (40 mg.kg−1) (ZS). Blood samples were collected at eight-week intervals for analysis. Specifically, the levels of total antioxidant status (TAS), malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and zinc (Zn) in serum, as well as GSH-Px, Zn and MDA concentrations in semen were measured. Results: During the first two months of the experiment, the serum total antioxidant status (TAS) in all of the treated animals was significantly higher than that of the control group (P0.05). The serum glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activity was significantly higher in the selenium (Se) group compared to the other groups (P

Background: Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) has a high prevalence at early age and in children and regard to life expectancy index this disease cause to losing many years of life in these patients. Two well-known European protocols called United Kingdom (UK-ALL) and Berlin-Frankfurt-Munster (BFM-ALL) protocols are used to treat the disease in most countries of the world and in Iran, so the objective of this study is modelling of the treatment process using both protocols to estimate more ‎cost-effectiveness method. Methods: A decision tree model was applied to depict the real treatment process to calculate costs per quality-adjusted life-year (QALY). Total costs were included to the model. Results: The cost effectiveness ratio of UK-ALL is lower than BFM-ALL (1145.52 USD /3.87 QALY for UK-ALL and 1942.35 USD /3.02 QALY for BFM-ALL). Therefore, the UK-ALL is dominant and BFM-ALL is dominated.‎ Conclusions: The modeling results showed a double difference between the two studied options so to better cancer management, policymakers and oncologist ‎should advocate the economic evaluation methods and modeling to select a real option in the treatment of patients to save resources like UK-ALL.

This research aims to analyze the improvement of junior high school students' mathematical communication skills through Problem Based Learning (PBL) assisted by Geogebra and Direct Instruction assisted by Geogebra. The research also considers the level of student learning independence. The research method used was a quasi-experiment with a pretest-posttest design and a control group, involving two treatment groups. groups that underwent the PBL approach with the help of Geogebra and Direct Instruction with the help of Geogebra. Students in this study were divided based on their level of learning independence. Data was collected through an initial test (pretest), implementation of learning, and a final test (posttest). Data analysis involved a comparison between the increase in students' mathematical communication skills before and after treatment in the two treatment groups, as well as the influence of the level of learning independence on increasing mathematical communication skills. The research results show that both learning approaches contribute to improving students' mathematical communication skills. However, the group that took part in PBL assisted by Geogebra showed more significant improvement compared to the Direct Instruction group assisted by Geogebra. In addition, it was identified that the level of student learning independence influences the results of improving mathematical communication skills, where students with a high level of learning independence tend to benefit more from PBL assisted by Geogebra. In order to improve students' mathematical communication skills in learning spatial material, it is recommended that educators consider using Geogebra-assisted PBL and pay attention to students' level of learning independence in designing effective learning strategies.

Abstract Background Breast cancer remains a primary global health concern due to its limited treatment options, frequent disease recurrence, and high rates of morbidity and mortality. Thereby, there is a need for more effective treatment approaches. The proposal suggests that the combination of targeted therapy with other antitumoral agents could potentially address drug resistance. In this study, we examined the antitumoral effect of combining metformin, an antidiabetic drug, with targeted therapies, including tamoxifen for estrogen receptor-positive (MCF-7), trastuzumab for HER2-positive (SKBR-3), and antibody against ROR1 receptor for triple-negative breast cancer (MDA-MB-231). Methods Once the expression of relevant receptors on each cell line was confirmed and appropriate drug concentrations were selected through cytotoxicity assays, the antitumor effects of both monotherapy and combination therapy on colony formation, migration, invasion were assessed in in vitro as well as tumor area and metastatic potential in ex ovo Chick chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) models. Results The results exhibited the enhanced effects of tamoxifen when combined with targeted therapy. This combination effectively inhibited cell growth, colony formation, migration, and invasion in vitro. Additionally, it significantly reduced tumor size and metastatic potential in an ex ovo CAM model. Conclusions The findings indicate that a favorable strategy to enhance the efficacy of breast cancer treatment would be to combine metformin with targeted therapies. Graphical Abstract

AbstractBackground: The rapid growth of global population and urbanization has resulted in disorder in urban spaces, diminishing their effectiveness and exacerbating transportation issues. Furthermore, the lack of foresight by urban managers in long-term planning has hindered sustainable urban development. Consequently, policymakers and urban planners have been compelled to address these challenges through appropriate measures and strategies. The Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) approach has been presented as a viable solution to these disruptions. This approach aims to revitalize surrounding land uses and improve the movement of goods and services by making adjustments in the vicinity of public transportation systems. The metro station of Meydan Sā'at (Line 1) in the two-municipality area of Tabriz City holds significant potential to evolve into a TOD center due to its numerous challenges.Objective: The research endeavored to foster sustainable development, cultivate a welcoming environment, and restructure land use in accordance with TOD criteria.Research Method: The methodology employed was descriptive-analytical with practical objectives and the research was conducted through the preparation of a questionnaire, data extraction from GIS software, and the use of the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP).Findings: Upon analyzing 4 primary criteria and 9 influential sub-criteria, the results underscored the significance of options, such as enhancing economic efficiency, improving the public transportation system's effectiveness, and increasing density with the selection priority scores of 0.25, 0.183, and 0.161, respectively.Keywords: Transit-Oriented Development (TOD), Regeneration of Urban Land Use, Metro Station, Meydan Sā'at, Line 1 IntroductionContemporary urban transportation system design involves formulating comprehensive urban plans to maximize the alignment between urban development policies and the need to reevaluate land use in accordance with urban network characteristics. Coordinated and simultaneous planning for transportation and other influential urban factors, such as land use and density, can reduce citizens' time and cost in utilizing urban spaces to fulfill their needs. However, the lack of attention to this issue and continuation of separate planning for individual elements hinder the achievement of an optimal city shape and structure, particularly given the escalating population and traffic trends in cities. This situation leads to increased costs for citizens to access different parts of the city and transforms traffic problems into formidable challenges for city managers. Consequently, utilization and spatial distribution of urban lands play a crucial role in optimizing urban space usage. In general, defining land use encompasses various types of land use, density, land use per parcel, building height, architectural appearance, and integration of commercial, residential, and healthcare facilities within each neighborhood. In response to emerging urban issues, such as traffic congestion, air pollution, and haphazard city expansion, Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) has been proposed as an advanced perspective. Sustainable development, through the interconnectedness of transportation and urban development within the framework of smart growth and new urbanism movements, emphasizes public transportation to foster healthier societies and a more dynamic economy. By integrating transportation planning and land use, this approach aims to curb the scattered expansion of physical development and marginalization of cities. Materials & MethodsIn line with the research objectives, a descriptive-analytical research method based on document analysis and library studies was employed with a practical orientation. Consequently, data collection involved a synthesis of global experiences, the structure and principles of Transit-Oriented Development (TOD), and the information extracted from GIS software to elucidate the research theoretical foundations. Field observations were also conducted to gather the necessary data and information within the study scope. The Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) technique and Expert Choice software were utilized to analyze and evaluate the data derived from the completed field reports. In this context, the criteria and sub-criteria for regenerating the land use of Meydan Sā'at Station (Line 1) were selected based on an investigation of the study area and relevant fundamentals. Subsequently, expert opinions were incorporated through the creation of questionnaires to facilitate pairwise comparisons.Research FindingsEvaluation of the sub-criteria revealed that "increasing economic efficiency" held the highest importance with a score of 0.232 in the economic criterion followed by "increasing the efficiency of the public transportation system" at 0.183 in the traffic criterion and "increasing density" at 0.161 in the economic criterion. Consequently, revisions were made based on the priority of the criteria and sub-criteria. Conversely, "increasing social interactions" scored 0.058 in the social criterion, "expansion of green space" scored 0.044 in the environmental criterion, and "increasing the safety of pedestrians" scored 0.064 in the traffic criterion indicated their relatively minor roles in achieving the research goals. Additionally, "increasing public services" scored 0.095 in the economic criterion, "expanding green space" scored 0.044 in the environmental criterion, "reducing biological pollution" scored 0.077 in the environmental criterion, and "reducing parking" scored 0.086 in the traffic criteria were identified as next in priority. Discussion of Results & ConclusionSuccessful development of Transit-Oriented Developments (TODs) hinges on the convergence of numerous intricate factors, including social conditions, demographics, economic conditions, political support, and promotion of alternative transportation among others. However, without a solid foundation, these factors become inconsequential. Therefore, the researchers’ objective in this study, based on the conducted research and theoretical concepts, was to assess the influential elements in integrating the efficiency of public transportation systems and land use according to TOD criteria with a focus on land use intensification within a city. To this end, analysis, evaluation, and prioritization of the research criteria and sub-criteria were conducted by using the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) technique and Expert Choice software. The results obtained from the AHP technique indicated that the "economic," "social," and "environmental" criteria held the weights of 0.48, 0.27, and 0.15, respectively. Furthermore, the sub-criteria of "increasing economic efficiency," "enhancing transportation system efficiency," and "general transportation" followed by "increasing density" emerged as the most significant factors with the respective weights of 0.232, 0.183, and 0.161. These findings aligned with the results of previous studies by Rafiyan et al. (2011), Saatian et al. (2010), Faramarzi Asli et al. (2021), and Mirfatahi et al. (2021).

Context: Cigarette smoking is a global public health concern, particularly in developing countries. Saudi Arabia has a high prevalence of smoking among young individuals, highlighting the need for interventions to address this issue. Aims: This study aimed to evaluate the awareness, attitude, smoking rates, and perception of health risks among young individuals in the Jazan region of Saudi Arabia. The goal was to identify areas for improvement and develop effective strategies to combat smoking and promote healthier lifestyles. Methods and Materials: A cross-sectional survey was conducted at the out-patient department of the College of Dentistry, Jazan University, over a 3-month period. A questionnaire consisting of 15 open-ended questions was administered to eligible patients. Statistical Analysis Used: Statistical analysis was performed using the Chi-squared test with a P- value of

Abstract During the cryopreservation of sperm, the production of highly reactive oxygen species (ROS) can reduce their viability and fertility. However, the addition of antioxidants can help reduce the harmful effects of ROS. One such antioxidant is selenium, which is a co-factor of the glutathione peroxidase enzyme that is effective in scavenging ROS. Cysteamine can also take part in the structure of this enzyme. The use of nanoparticles can be less toxic to cells than their salt form. To this end, researchers synthesized Se-NPs using the streptococcus bacteria and loaded cysteamine onto the synthesized Se-NPs. The biosynthesis of Se-NPs and cysteamine loaded on Se-NPs was confirmed by UV–visible spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (EDX), Fourier transforms infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope (FE-SEM). For cryopreservation, ram semen samples were diluted, and different concentrations (0, 1, 5, 25, and 125 µg/mL) of cysteamine, Se-NPs, cysteamine loaded on Se-NPs, and sodium selenite were added. An extender containing no supplement was considered as control group. After cooling the semen samples, they were frozen and stored in liquid nitrogen for evaluation. The samples were thawed and analyzed for mobility, viability, membrane and DNA integrity, and sperm abnormalities, as well as malondialdehyde level (MDA) and superoxide dismutase (SOD). The data was processed using SPSS, and a significance level of p

Background: The rise in healthcare expenditures, particularly drug costs, has posed a significant challenge to the healthcare system. This issue is particularly critical for chronic diseases such as diabetes, as various factors influence patients' access to these medications and their financial ability to pay for them. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the access and purchasing power for anti-diabetic drugs in pharmacies and hospitals in Khorramabad city in 2022. Materials and Methods: This descriptive-analytical study included patients and visitors to private pharmacies and hospitals in Khorramabad. The required information was collected through patient prescriptions, pharmacy records, interviews, and checklists based on the World Health Organization protocol. Data analysis was performed using t-test, chi-square, ANOVA, and logistic regression, utilizing SPSS version 21 software. Results: The findings revealed that among the socio-economic factors affecting the financial ability to pay for diabetes medications, income level is identified as a significant factor, particularly in patients with underlying conditions, where their income is adversely impacted. Additionally, the results indicated that, unlike the free market, in the healthcare and pharmaceutical market, no socio-economic factor from the demand side (i.e., patients) influences pharmacies as drug suppliers in terms of the accessibility index. Conclusion: Despite the good availability of medications in pharmacies, the financial constraints faced by patients in covering medication costs suggest that government intervention through measures such as enhanced insurance coverage and medication subsidies could support economically disadvantaged groups.

Abstract Background Recurrent aphthous stomatitis has a complex and inflammatory origin. Among the great variety of medications it is increasingly common to use herbal medicines due to the adverse side effects of chemical medications. Considering the anti-inflammatory properties of cinnamaldehyde and the lack of studies related to the effectiveness of its nano form; This study investigates the effect of cinnamaldehyde and nano cinnamaldehyde on the healing rate of recurrent aphthous stomatitis lesions. Methods In a laboratory experiment, cinnamaldehyde was converted into niosomal nanoparticles. The niosome vesicles diameter and polydispersity index were measured at 25°C using a dynamic light scattering (DLS) Mastersizer 2000 (Malvern Panalytical technologies: UK) and Zetasizer Nano ZS system (Malvern Instruments Worcestershire: UK). After characterizing these particles, the (2,3-Bis-(2-Methoxy-4-Nitro-5-Sulfophenyl)-2H-Tetrazolium-5-Carboxanilide) [XTT] assay was used to assess the toxicity of cinnamaldehyde and nano cinnamaldehyde on gingival fibroblast (HGF) and macrophage (THP-1) cells. By determining the release of TNF-α, IL-6, and TGF-β cytokines using ELISA kits, the level of tissue repair and anti-inflammatory capabilities of these two substances were evaluated. Results The size and loading rate of the cinnamaldehyde nanoparticles were established after its creation. The optimized nanovesicle exhibited the following characteristics: particle size of 228.75 ± 2.38 nm, PDI of 0.244 ± 0.01, the zeta potential of -10.87 ± 1.09 mV and the drug encapsulation percentage of 66.72 ± 3.93%. PDIs range was between 0.242–0.274. The zeta potential values at 25°C were from -2.67 to -12.9 mV. The results of the XTT test demonstrated that nano cinnamaldehyde exhibited dose-dependent toxicity effects. Moreover, nano cinnamaldehyde released more TGF-β and had better reparative effects when taken at lower concentrations than cinnamaldehyde. Conclusion Nano cinnamaldehyde and cinnamaldehyde are effective in repairing tissue when used in non-toxic amounts. After confirmation in animal models, it is envisaged that these substances can be utilized to treat recurrent aphthous stomatitis.

Background. Root canals feature a high incidence of post-treatment flare-ups, characterized by pain, swelling, or discomfort following endodontic procedures, which remain a concern in dental practice. This study aims to evaluate the host-related factors behind the prevalence of post-endodontic flare-ups. Methodology. A retrospective study was conducted on the records of 93 patients who were treated endodontically between January 2017 and December 2021. Data extracted from records included age, medical conditions, diagnosis, and tooth type. SPSS 27.0 was used to analyze the data. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was employed to identify significant predictors while controlling for potential confounding factors. Results. The flare-up rate among patients who had received endodontic treatment was 31.2% in the study population. Multivariate logistic regression analysis demonstrated that age and the presence of a vital pulp were significant predictors of flare-ups. Older patients exhibited an increased likelihood of experiencing flare-ups (p 0.05). Conclusion. The study provided insights into the frequency of post-endodontic flare-ups and the impact of host-related factors on their occurrence. Age and vital pulp were found to be important predictors, highlighting the significance of individualized treatment planning. These results highlight the possibility of improved patient outcomes through a thorough understanding of post-endodontic problems and contribute to evidence-based endodontic practice.

Background and purpose: Dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) with the ability to differentiate into different types of adult cells have provided a new vision in the treatment of various diseases. However, different challenges remain with differentiation methods to produce insulin-producing cells (IPCs). In the present study, the differentiation of dental pulp stem cells into IPCs using platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has been addressed. Materials and methods: In this experimental study for generation of IPCs, DPSCs were cultured in the first step, and then to confirm the characteristics of stem cells, the morphology of stem cells was confirmed by microscopic observation, and then the expression of CD90 and CD105 markers assessed by flow cytometry. After confirming the pluripotency of the stem cells, a 18days differentiation protocol into IPCs began. Following that, pancreatic endocrine genes such as insulin, pdx1, glut2 and glucagon were analyzed using Real-Time PCR. Insulin and C-peptide release was assessed using ELISA. To investigate the effect of platelet-rich plasma on cell viability, the MTT test was performed. Results: Results showed that the use of the above-mentioned differentiation protocol, in the differentiation group containing PRP, the cells resembled Langerhans islet clusters. The expression of pancreatic endocrine genes in the differentiation group containing PRP was significantly higher than the other groups. Additionally, in two differentiation groups with and without PRP, the cells responded differently to glucose concentrations compared to insulin and C-peptide release. Furthermore, the rate of cell proliferation in the differentiation group containing PRP was higher than the other groups. Conclusion: Based on the availability of dental pulp stem cells and PRP, the absence of invasive methods for obtaining these resources, as well as the low immunogenicity due to the use of the patient's tissues, seems to be appropriate method for producing insulin-secreting cells.

Background: The second victim phenomenon is an incident that occurs after an adverse medical event; while the patient is the first victim of the incident, the nurses and healthcare personnel become the second victims because they feel ashamed after that. The present research aimed to investigate various dimensions of the second victim phenomenon among nurses in South Khorasan Province, Iran.Materials and Methods: The current research was a descriptive study. The sample selection method was multi-stage cluster randomization, including 200 nurses working in South Khorasan Province, Iran. The data was collected using a demographic questionnaire and the second victim experience and support tool (SVEST) and analyzed using SPSS version 21.Results: The scores of incidence of psychological distress (14.60), professional self-efficacy (9.42), supervisor support (15.97), institutional support (10.71), turnover intentions and absenteeism (13.35), non-work-related support (expected sources of support) (25.25) and the total score of second victim phenomenon (114.55) were higher than the expected average; but other scores including colleague support (8.56), family support (5.41), and physical distress (11.31) were significantly lower than the expected average (p

Background and purpose: Pseudoviruses, due to their immunity and adaptability, are valuable tools for developing vaccines and therapeutic drugs, particularly for emerging viruses. SARS-CoV-2, due to its high mortality rate and ease of transmission, should be handled under Biosafety Level 3 conditions, making the development of vaccines and therapeutic drugs challenging in many research centers. The present study aimed to produce a lentivirus pseudotype that can be used in neutralization assays based on pseudovirus under Biosafety Level 2 conditions. Materials and methods: The SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein gene was inserted into the HIV-1 genome. Confirmation of entry was obtained through flow cytometry, electron microscopy, and immunofluorescence. Finally, the neutralization capacity of convalescent COVID-19 patients' sera was measured using the pseudovirus-based neutralization assay. Results: The results of flow cytometry, electron microscopy, and immunofluorescence confirmed the entry of the Spike gene. Furthermore, the sera of convalescent patients showed significantly higher neutralizing capacity compared to the control group that had not been exposed to SARS-CoV-2. Conclusion: The results of this study demonstrated that the use of the produced lentivirus pseudotype can measure the neutralizing capacity of patients' sera, and the pseudovirus-based neutralization assay serves as a suitable alternative for assessing the neutralization of live SARS-CoV-2. Moreover, this test can effectively evaluate vaccines or therapeutic drugs for combating this deadly virus.

In the current investigation, the fracture toughness of plexiglass specimens was accurately measured employing Edge Notched Disc (END) type specimens. Besides, the Notched Brazilian Discs (NBD) were used in order to validate the results of the conducted END experiments. Moreover, a numerical analysis was carried out on the END tests to verify the accuracy of the measured fracture toughness values. In the first stage, the splitting tensile test was used to accurately calibrate the micro-scale properties of the Flat Joint (FJ) model. In the second phase, the numerical simulation of END and NBD models was created, in which the notch lengths in END and NBD were set to 5, 15, 25, 40 and 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60 in millimeters, respectively. According to the obtained results, the considered FJ model is capable of making an accurate determination of the potential crack growth path and crack initiation stress like the experimentally obtained results for plexiglass specimens. It was also derived that lengthening the notch could not have a considerable effect on the fracture toughness of the models. The Tensile stress distribution on the failure surface of END test could be the main cause of the lower fracture toughness levels of END test. Besides, the same fracture extension patterns were seen from the experimental investigations and numerical simulations.

Abstract Aim This study aimed to explore nurses' experiences of providing family‐centred care in the postresuscitation period. Design An exploratory‐descriptive qualitative design was used. Methods In this qualitative study, in‐depth, semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 22 nurses in three educational hospitals. There were six participants who completed follow‐up interviews to resolve questions generated during initial interviews. Data were analysed using conventional content analysis. Results Five main categories were extracted: continuous monitoring, facilitation of attendance, involvement in care, informing and emotional support. Despite the lack of organizational policies and guidelines, nurses explained how they work to provide family‐centred care for families, especially those they assessed as having less possibility of aggressive behaviour and those with a better understanding of their loved one's condition. To provide postresuscitation family‐centred care, nurses facilitated family attendance, involved them in some basic nursing care, and provided information and emotional support to the family members. Conclusion Nurses attempted to follow the basic principles of family‐centred care in the postresuscitation period. However, to improve the provision of care by nurses, it is necessary to embed family‐centred care principles in institutional policies and guidelines and to conduct training for nurses. Implications for the Profession Iranian nurses are interested in engaged families in the postresuscitation period. Correct implementations of such care that include all families need institutional policies and guidelines. Patient or Public Contribution No patient or public contribution.

A nanostructured material, ordered mesoporous carbon (OMC), was synthesised in metal- and halide-free form and its use for the sequestration of crystal violet, a hazardous triphenylmethane dye, is reported for the first time. The OMC material is characterised using scanning transmission electron microscopy with energy-dispersive spectroscopy for chemical analysis, by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, and by nitrogen gas physisorption. The ideal conditions for the uptake of crystal violet dye were determined in batch experiments covering the standard parameters: pH, concentration, contact time, and adsorbent dosage. Experimental data are validated by applying Langmuir, Freundlich, Dubinin–Radushkevich, and Temkin isotherms. The thermodynamic parameters, ΔH°, ΔG°, and ΔS°, are calculated and it has been found that the adsorption process is spontaneous and endothermic with increasing disorder. An in-depth analysis of the kinetics of the adsorption process, order of the reaction and corresponding values of the rate constants was performed. The adsorption of crystal violet over OMC has been found to follow pseudo-second-order kinetics through a film diffusion process at all temperatures studied. Continuous flow column operations were performed using fixed bed adsorption. Parameters including percentage saturation of the OMC bed are evaluated. The exhausted column was regenerated through a desorption process and column efficiency was determined.

In this study, a biodegradable and eco-friendly biocatalyst (eggshell/Fe3O4) was synthesized utilizing eggshell impregnated with Fe3O4 nanoparticles. The characterization of prepared catalyst was carried out by Fourier transform infrared radiation (FT-IR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX), thermal gravimetric analysis-differential thermogravimetry (TGA-DTG), vibrating sample magnometer (VSM), and atomic force microscopy (AFM). The eggshell/Fe3O4 biocatalyst was served in multi-component reactions (MCRs) for the synthesis of 2-amino thiophene derivatives from variety aromatic aldehydes, malononitrile, ethyl acetoacetate, and sulfur (S8). To achieve optimal reaction conditions, a thorough examination was conducted on key factors, such as the solvent type, reaction time and temperature, and the ratio of eggshell to Fe3O4. The findings suggest that high yield product can be obtained at microwave temperature (MW) in EtOH solvent within 10 min. Additionally, the eggshell/Fe3O4 biocatalyst exhibited high catalytic activity, which was sustained over the five cycles, without any significant decline in its performance.

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is known as a harmful pollutant for the environment and human health, and its emission control is a high priority. Non-thermal plasma is an effective technology in this field. In this study, for the first time, the performance of direct and indirect H2S plasma conversion methods was compared, optimized, and modeled with the CCD method. H2S was diluted in zero air, and the study investigated the effect of discharge power, relative humidity, total flow rate, initial H2S concentration, and their interactions. ANOVA results showed that the models for H2S conversion efficiency and energy yield were significant and efficient. The direct method achieved a maximum conversion efficiency of 56 % and energy yield of 3.43 g/kWh, while the indirect method produced 68 % conversion efficiency and 1.59 g/kWh energy yield. According to the process optimization results, the direct conversion method is more optimal than the indirect conversion method due to the presence of active species and high-energy electrons in the plasma treatment, and it is a better choice if there are suitable working conditions.

Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) as carbon dioxide adsorption in combination with metal oxides have shown catalyst application in CO2 conversion. Herein, the MgO/HKUST-1 catalyst is synthesized to direct conversion of CO2 upon dilution by argon in a cylindrical dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) reactor. A water-cooling circulation adjusts the reactor temperature, and aluminum powder is used as a high-voltage electrode. The effect of the discharge power, feed flow rate, CO2 fraction, and their interaction in plasma and plasma catalyst method on CO2 conversion (R1), effective CO2 conversion (R2), and energy efficiency (R3) is evaluated by central composite design (CCD) based on response surface methodology. The Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) results demonstrate that the quadratic regression model describes CO2 conversion and effective CO2 conversion, and the reduced cubic model describes energy efficiency. The results indicate that the method (plasma, plasma catalyst) and discharge power on R1 and R2 have a considerable effect. Also, the method and CO2 fraction on R3 have the greatest impact, respectively. In the plasma and plasma catalyst method maximum CO2 conversion is 12.3% and 20.5% at a feed flow rate of 80 ml/min, CO2 fraction of 50%, and discharge power of 74 W.

Abstract Sulfur compounds are among the most unfavorable constituents of petroleum derivatives, so stringent regulations have been established to curb their atmospheric emissions. In this regard, a new nanocomposite ((n-C4H9)4N)4H[PW11FeO39]@NiO) was synthesized composed of quaternary ammonium bromide salt of ironIII-substituted Keggin-type polyoxometalate immobilized on nickel(II) oxide nanoceramics via sol–gel method. The assembled (n-C4H9)4N)4H[PW11FeO39]@NiO nanocomposite was identified by FT-IR, UV–Vis, XRD, SEM, EDX, and TGA-DTG methods. The characterization results exhibited that ((n-C4H9)4N)4H[PW11FeO39] dispersed uniformly over the surface of the NiO nanoceramics. The ((n-C4H9)4N)4H[PW11FeO39]@NiO nanocomposite was employed as a heterogeneous nanocatalyst in the extractive coupled oxidation desulfurization (ECOD) of real gas oil and dibenzothiophene (DBT) as a model compound. Under relatively moderate conditions, the catalytic performance of the ((n-C4H9)4N)4H[PW11FeO39]@NiO in the ECOD procedure was studied by incorporating acetic acid/hydrogen peroxide as an oxidant system at a volume ratio of 1:2. According to the ECOD results, the ((n-C4H9)4N)4H[PW11FeO39]@NiO demonstrated the effectiveness of up to 95% with 0.1 g at 60 °C under optimal operating conditions. Moreover, the ((n-C4H9)4N)4H[PW11FeO39]@NiO nanocatalyst could be separated and reused for five runs without a noticeable decrease in the ECOD process. This study provides a promising way to meet the target of ultra-low sulfur as an essential process in oil refineries.

Abstract Aim The aim of the study was to examine the experiences of nursing students in internship during the COVID‐19 pandemic. Design A qualitative study. Methods Purposeful sampling was conducted among undergraduate nursing students at Tabriz School of Nursing in November 2021. Students participated in 14 in‐depth open‐ended interviews and stated their experiences and opinions on internships during the COVID epidemic until full data saturation. Data analysis was performed using the conventional content analysis method. This study followed the Standards for Reporting Qualitative Research (SRQR) checklist. Results Findings were extracted and classified into five main categories, including a lack of facilities and equipment, psychological disturbances, physical risk, disturbances in education and learning activities and movement to continue clinical learning in the situation. Conclusion Nursing students in clinical training during the COVID epidemic have experienced physical and mental health issues, as well as educational challenges. During an infectious disease epidemic period, education administrators should adopt appropriate strategies to protect students' health and facilitate their educational and learning activities.

Background & Aims One of the concerns of nurses and physicians is the adherence to treatment in patients with heart diseases. In Iran, there are no accurate statistics on the treatment adherence of patients with coronary artery stents, and the risk of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) in these patients has not been investigated. Therefore, this study aims to determine the relationship between treatment adherence and the risk of CVDs in patients with coronary artery stents. Materials & Methods This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from June to August 2021 in Shahid Madani Hospital in Tabriz, Iran. Participants were 200 patients who underwent coronary angioplasty in the past year and had coronary artery stents. They were selected by a simple random sampling method. To collect data, a demographic form, the treatment adherence questionnaire, and the Framingham risk score (FRS) were used. The collected data were analyzed in SPSS software, version 22 using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation test, t-test, and one-way analysis of variance. Results The mean age of the patients was 61.6±10.62 years. Most of them were male (60.5%) and married (68%). The overall mean score of treatment adherence was 41.50±8.48, indicating moderate adherence. Patients had poor adherence in domains of dietary regimen and regular physical activity such that most of them used high-fat food (87%) and had the least amount of physical activity per week (92.4%), but they used prescribed medicines on time (70.3%). Based on the FRS, men were twice as likely to have CVDs as women. There was a significant association between treatment adherence and the risk of CVDs, such that the risk of CVDs in the next 10 years among patients decreased with increasing their adherence to treatment (r=-0.25, P

Abstract Siltation significantly threatens a reservoir’s original storage capacity and lifespan. Pressure flushing is an effective measure against siltation through the partial drawdown of the reservoir water level with limited flushed cone volumes in front of the bottom outlet. In this study, a novel configuration with submerged vanes has been proposed and tested experimentally to increase the flushed sediment volume during pressure flushing. In the new configuration, submerged vanes aligned with ten skew angles (θ) of 10°, 20°, 30°, 45°, 70°, 110°, 135°, 150°, 160°, and 170° to the flow direction in noncohesive sediment bed materials were used. The results showed that increasing the skew angle at 45° ≤ θ ≤ 160° increased the flushing cone geometry. The minimum and maximum flushing cone dimensions and volume occurred at skew angles of θ = 45° and 135° ≤ θ ≤ 160° around the bottom outlet. The sediment flushing volume in the presence of submerged vanes at 135° ≤ θ ≤ 160° increased 25 times compared to tests without submerged vanes. Eventually, nonlinear regression analysis yielded an equation for estimating flushing cone volumes. The developed equation was tested in real case studies of a target reservoir, and an acceptable correlation between the calculated and experimental results was obtained.

Abstract Reservoir simulations for subsurface processes play an important role in successful deployment of geoscience applications such as geothermal energy extraction and geo-storage of fluids. These simulations provide time-lapse dynamics of the coupled poromechanical processes within the reservoir and its over-, under-, and side-burden environments. For more reliable operations, it is crucial to connect these reservoir simulation results with the seismic surveys (i.e., observation data). However, despite being crucial, such integration is challenging due to the fact that the reservoir dynamics alters the seismic parameters. In this work, a coupled reservoir simulation and time-lapse seismic methodology is developed for multiphase flow operations in subsurface reservoirs. To this end, a poromechanical simulator is designed for multiphase flow and connected to a forward seismic modeller. This simulator is then used to assess a novel methodology of seismic monitoring by isolating the reservoir signal from the entire reflection response. This methodology is shown to be able to track the development of the fluid front over time, even in the presence of a highly reflective overburden with strong time-lapse variations. These results suggest that the proposed methodology can contribute to a better understanding of fluid flow in the subsurface. Ultimately, this will lead to improved monitoring of reservoirs for underground energy storage or production.

Abstract Background Inborn errors of immunity (IEIs) are considered significant challenges for children with IEIs, their families, and their medical providers. Infections are the most common complication of IEIs and children can acquire coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) even when protective measures are taken. Objectives To estimate the incidence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection in children with IEIs and analyse the demographic parameters, clinical characteristics and treatment outcomes in children with IEIs with COVID-19 illness. Methods For this systematic review, we searched ProQuest, Medline, Embase, PubMed, CINAHL, Wiley online library, Scopus and Nature through the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta Analyses (PRISMA) guideline for studies on the development of COVID-19 in children with IEIs, published from December 1, 2019 to February 28, 2023, with English language restriction. Results Of the 1095 papers that were identified, 116 articles were included in the systematic review (73 case report, 38 cohort 4 case-series and 1 case–control studies). Studies involving 710 children with IEIs with confirmed COVID-19 were analyzed. Among all 710 IEIs pediatric cases who acquired SARS-CoV-2, some children were documented to be admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) (n = 119, 16.8%), intubated and placed on mechanical ventilation (n = 87, 12.2%), suffered acute respiratory distress syndrome (n = 98, 13.8%) or died (n = 60, 8.4%). Overall, COVID-19 in children with different IEIs patents resulted in no or low severity of disease in more than 76% of all included cases (COVID-19 severity: asymptomatic = 105, mild = 351, or moderate = 88). The majority of children with IEIs received treatment for COVID-19 (n = 579, 81.5%). Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) due to COVID-19 in children with IEIs occurred in 103 (14.5%). Fatality in children with IEIs with COVID-19 was reported in any of the included IEIs categories for cellular and humoral immunodeficiencies (n = 19, 18.6%), immune dysregulatory diseases (n = 17, 17.9%), innate immunodeficiencies (n = 5, 10%), bone marrow failure (n = 1, 14.3%), complement deficiencies (n = 1, 9.1%), combined immunodeficiencies with associated or syndromic features (n = 7, 5.5%), phagocytic diseases (n = 3, 5.5%), autoinflammatory diseases (n = 2, 3%) and predominantly antibody deficiencies (n = 5, 2.5%). Mortality was COVID-19-related in a considerable number of children with IEIs (29/60, 48.3%). The highest ICU admission and fatality rates were observed in cases belonging to cellular and humoral immunodeficiencies (26.5% and 18.6%) and immune dysregulatory diseases (35.8% and 17.9%) groups, especially in children infected with SARS-CoV-2 who suffered severe combined immunodeficiency (28.6% and 23.8%), combined immunodeficiency (25% and 15%), familial hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (40% and 20%), X-linked lymphoproliferative diseases-1 (75% and 75%) and X-linked lymphoproliferative diseases-2 (50% and 50%) compared to the other IEIs cases. Conclusion Children with IEIs infected with SARS-CoV-2 may experience higher rates of ICU admission and mortality in comparison with the immunocompetent pediatric populations. Underlying immune defects does seem to be independent risk factors for severe SARS-CoV-2 infection in children with IEIs, a number of children with SCID and CID were reported to have prolonged infections–though the number of patients is small–but especially immune dysregulation diseases (XLP1 and XLP2) and innate immunodeficiencies impairing type I interferon signalling (IFNAR1, IFNAR2 and TBK1).

Background: One reason for family breakups is failing to treat the problems of incompatible couples. The aim of this study was to compare the effectiveness of emotion regulation (ER) and logotherapy (LT) on the psychological distress of incompatible couples.Methods: This study used an experimental design with pre- and post-tests and a control group. The statistical population comprised all incompatible couples who had sought counseling services at Avaye Kherad, Neday Baran, and the Life Counseling Center in Sari City, Iran, in 2021. The research sample comprised 69 couples who were selected using purposive sampling and divided into two experimental groups (18 people in each group) and a control group (18 people). To collect data, the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS) Questionnaire (Lovibond & Lovibond, 1995) was used. The collected data were analyzed using the ANCOVA test (with a significance level set at α=0.05) and SPSS version 25.Results: The results of the analysis showed that ER and LT were effective in reducing the psychological distress of incompatible couples. The mean depression score was significantly lower in the ER group (10.27±2.19) compared to the LT group (11.61±2.30) and the control group (15.05±2.38; P=0.001). The mean anxiety score was also significantly lower in the ER group (8.77±2.07) compared to the LT group (13.72±2.24) and the control group (13.94±2.18; P=0.004). The effectiveness of ER (10±1.87) in reducing stress was significantly higher than LT (13.38±2.59) and the control group (15.38±2.42; P=0.001).Conclusions: Based on the findings of this study, it can be concluded that emotion regulation and logotherapy can be effective therapies to reduce the problems of incompatible couples.