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Background: SARS-CoV-2, the causative agent of the COVID-19 pandemic, spreads through both direct and indirect pathways. Among the latter, surface contamination is a significant concern due to the virus’s prolonged viability on surfaces. There is ongoing discussion over the impact of environmental surface contamination, especially in light of the introduction of novel viral types. The present study aimed to examine the extent of environmental surface contamination across different hospital wards and evaluate the effectiveness of disinfectants in inactivating the virus. Methods: The samples were collected from critical areas in a hospital, both pre-disinfection (n = 40) and post-disinfection (n = 17), using reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) to detect SARS-CoV-2. Results: The findings indisputably confirm the presence of SARS-CoV-2 on swab samples from frequently-touched surfaces. Notably, 10 samples were virus-positive before disinfection, highlighting persistent viral contamination in vital hospital zones. Conclusion: This study underscores the critical role of environmental surface contamination in SARSCoV- 2 transmission, particularly in healthcare settings. Detecting the virus on frequently-handled surfaces underscores the urgent need for rigorous and frequent surface disinfection. Effective surface disinfection remains a rapid, straightforward, and practical strategy to mitigate virus transmission to healthcare workers and patients. These findings hold significant implications for infection control, particularly amid emerging virus variants. They emphasize the need to maintain stringent hygiene and disinfection practices within healthcare facilities to combat the spread of COVID-19.

This research addresses the urgent challenges posed by rapid urbanization and climate change through an integrated interdisciplinary approach combining advanced technologies with rigorous scientific exploration. The comprehensive analysis focused on Wuhan, China, spanning decades of meteorological and land-use data to trace extreme urbanization trajectories and reveal intricate temporal and spatial patterns. Employing the innovative 360° radial Fibonacci geometric growth framework, the study facilitated a meticulous dissection of urban morphology at granular scales, establishing a model that combined fixed and mobile observational techniques to uncover climatic shifts and spatial transformations. Geographic information systems and computational fluid dynamics were pivotal tools used to explore the intricate interplay between urban structures and their environments. These analyses elucidated the nuanced impact of diverse morphosectors on local conditions. Furthermore, genetic algorithms were harnessed to distill meaningful relationships from the extensive data collected, optimizing spatial arrangements to enhance urban resilience and sustainability. This pioneering interdisciplinary approach not only illuminates the complex dynamics of urban ecosystems but also offers transformative insights for designing smarter, more adaptable cities. The findings underscore the critical role of green spaces in mitigating urban heat island effects. This highlights the imperative for sustainable urban planning to address the multifaceted challenges of the 21st century, promoting long-term environmental sustainability and urban health, particularly in the context of tomorrow’s climate-adaptive smart cities.

Abstract Beta-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) scaffolds manufactured through the foam replication method are widely employed in bone tissue regeneration. The mechanical strength of these scaffolds is a significant challenge, partly due to the rheological properties of the original suspension. Various strategies have been explored to enhance the mechanical properties. In this research, β-TCP scaffolds containing varying concentrations (0.25–1.00 wt%) of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) were developed. The findings indicate that the addition of MWCNTs led to a concentration-dependent improvement in the viscosity of β-TCP suspensions. All the prepared slurries exhibited viscoelastic behavior, with the storage modulus surpassing the loss modulus. The three time interval tests revealed that MWCNT-incorporated β-TCP suspensions exhibited faster structural recovery compared to pure β-TCP slurries. Introducing MWCNT modified compressive strength, and the optimal improvement was obtained using 0.75 wt% MWCNT. The in vitro degradation of β-TCP was also reduced by incorporating MWCNT. While the inclusion of carbon nanotubes had a marginal negative impact on the viability and attachment of MC3T3-E1 cells, the number of viable cells remained above 70% of the control group. Additionally, the results demonstrated that the scaffold increased the expression level of osteocalcin, osteoponthin, and alkaline phosphatase genes of adiposed-derived stem cells; however, higher levels of gene expersion were obtained by using MWCNT. The suitability of MWCNT-modified β-TCP suspensions for the foam replication method can be assessed by evaluating their rheological behavior, aiding in determining the critical additive concentration necessary for a successful coating process.

Highlights A significant proportion of 35/60 (58.33%) tumor tissue and 42/60 (70%) urine samples of the CRC patients were found to be positive for JCV DNA (P = 0.25). The parallel analysis of tumor and urine samples for JCV DNA further supports the potential for non-invasive screening tools. screening JCV DNA in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and stool of CRC patients may further support the potential for non-invasive screening tools. The study offers new insights into rearranged NCCR variants isolated from colorectal cancer (CRC) patients’ tissue. The screening and analysis of the rrNCCR region of JCV DNA in CRC patients’ stool may indicate the pathogenesis of the JCV virus in CRC development. The presence of JCV LTAg in tumor tissue is significantly higher than in normal tissue (p =

Abstract The evaluation of natural ventilation potential for effective sustainable options and innovative green building design strategies is of great interest to architects, researchers and governments. From a retrospective review, we found that the potential evaluation of natural ventilation (NV) cooling effectiveness in the same category based on similar meteorological uncertainty, research objectives and objects showed significant differences. Uncertainties added and uncertainty propagation (both model form uncertainties and parameter uncertainties) could result in large discrepancies between simulation outcomes and real scenarios, especially in the design performance modeling (DPM) phase. In this conceptual design stage, a few parameters are available and therefore decisive. It is necessary to review and identify the key performance indicators and explore the extent to which deviations are caused by inconsistencies or biases in model information. As a basis for more concrete research, we propose statistical tests based on quantitative evaluations to explore the rule of natural ventilation potential volatility and identify whether there is a significant potential improvement resulting from the critical parameter enhancement with the optimal relationship. The showcase is applied in China, where there has been a significant amount of criticism regarding the current building climate zoning due to the perceived coarseness of the system and where there has been an active exploration into the possibility of redefining building climate zoning with a view toward improving its accuracy and effectiveness.

Abstract Background However, misoprostol is often used to terminate a pregnancy, but it can also cause side effects. Isosorbide mononitrate (ISMN) can help the cervix mature by increasing the production of prostaglandin E2 and vasodilation. Considering that the results of studies in this field are contradictory, it is the purpose of this study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of vaginal ISMN plus misoprostol compared to misoprostol alone in the management of first- and second-trimester abortions. Method The search process was conducted for MEDLINE through the PubMed interface, Scopus, Web-of-Science, Science Direct, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), Google Scholar, ClinicalTrials.gov, and the World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform until November 10, 2023. Our assessment of bias was based on version 2 of the risk-of-bias tool (RoB2) for randomized trials and our level of evidence quality was determined by GRADE. Meta-analysis of all data was carried out using Review Manager (RevMan) version 5.1. Result Seven randomized clinical trials were included in the systematic review and three in the meta-analysis, with mixed quality. The results of the meta-analysis revealed that in the second-trimester abortion, the inclusion of ISMN in conjunction with vaginal misoprostol results in a noteworthy reduction in the induction abortion interval, specifically by 4.21 h (95% CI: -7.45 to -0.97, P = 0.01). The addition of vaginal ISMN to misoprostol, compared to vaginal misoprostol alone, increased the odds of a completed abortion by 3.76 times. (95% CI: 1.08 to 13.15, P = 0.04). Conclusion The findings of this study can offer valuable insights aimed at enhancing counseling and support for non-surgical methods of medication abortion within professional settings. Moreover, it improves the effectiveness of clinical treatment and reduces the occurrence of unnecessary surgical interventions in the abortion management protocol.

The PI3K/AKT/mTOR (PAM) signaling pathway is a highly conserved signal transduction network in eukaryotic cells that promotes cell survival, cell growth, and cell cycle progression. Growth factor signalling to transcription factors in the PAM axis is highly regulated by multiple cross-interactions with several other signaling pathways, and dysregulation of signal transduction can predispose to cancer development. The PAM axis is the most frequently activated signaling pathway in human cancer and is often implicated in resistance to anticancer therapies. Dysfunction of components of this pathway such as hyperactivity of PI3K, loss of function of PTEN, and gain-of-function of AKT, are notorious drivers of treatment resistance and disease progression in cancer. In this review we highlight the major dysregulations in the PAM signaling pathway in cancer, and discuss the results of PI3K, AKT and mTOR inhibitors as monotherapy and in co-administation with other antineoplastic agents in clinical trials as a strategy for overcoming treatment resistance. Finally, the major mechanisms of resistance to PAM signaling targeted therapies, including PAM signaling in immunology and immunotherapies are also discussed.

Background and Objectives: Vitamin D deficiency in viral infection associated with autoimmune diseases is well documented. This study assessed the prevalence of JC virus in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and its correlation with vitamin D level. Materials and Methods: Serum and urine samples were collected from 50 patients with RA and SLE. DNA was extracted and subjected to PCR test. Positive PCR products were sequenced, phylogenetic tree was constructed to determine the JC virus genotype. The patient’s vitamin D level was evaluated. Results: Of 50 patients, 19 (38%) were diagnosed as RA, and 31 (62%) were identified as SLE. JC virus DNA was detected in 17 (34%) patients’ urine samples including 5 (26.3%) RA and 12 (38.7%) SLE cases. JC virus DNA was detected 2 (4%) in patients’ serum samples (one RA. and one SLE). JC virus genotype 3A was dominant. Interestingly, the SLE patients with positive JC virus showed lowered vitamin D compared to patients with negative JC virus (P

Background and Objectives: Gastric cancer (GC) is the third most common cause of cancer-related mortality. Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is associated with several human tumors. The present research was performed to investigate the prevalence of EBV-associated gastric cancer (EBVaGC) among Iranian patients. Materials and Methods: Seventy cases of gastric cancer and 30 cases of gastric ulcer, all preserved in formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE), were examined in a case-control study conducted between 2011 and 2018. The specimens underwent analysis to detect the presence of the EBV genome using a Nested-PCR method targeting EBNA1. Subsequently, samples testing positive for the EBNA1 underwent further testing for the presence of the EBER gene using PCR. Finally, Positive samples were subjected to sequencing. Results: Five out of 70 cases (7%) were found to be positive for EBV based on EBNA1 testing, while all EBNA1 positive samples were negative for EBER. Notably, EBV was not detected in patients with gastric ulcer. The mean age of EBV-positive gastric carcinomas pateints was 64.5 years. Within this group, 60% were male and 40% were female. A higher prevalence of EBV association was observed in diffuse-type cases, with 60% (3 out of 24) testing positive, compared to intestinal-type cases where 40% (2 out of 46) were EBV-positive. Most cases of EBVaGC belonged to grade Ⅰ. Conclusion: This research demonstrates a low prevalence of EBVaGC in Iran. Discrepancies in EBVaGC occurrence among countries could be attributed to epidemiological variables and dietary practices. A comprehensive studies will provide significant contributions to understanding of its etiology.

Minor amounts of tungsten (W) are well known to improve Ni‐rich layered oxide‐based cathode active materials (CAMs) for Li ion batteries. Herein, W impacts are validated and compared for varied concentrations and incorporation routes in aqueous media for LiNi0.90Co0.06Mn0.04O2 (NCM90‐6‐4), either via modification of a precursor NixCoyMnz(OH)2 (pCAM) within a sol–gel reaction or directly during synthesis, i.e., either via an W‐based educt or during co‐precipitation in a continuously operated Couette–Taylor reactor. In particular, the sol–gel modification is shown to be beneficial and reveals >500 cycles for ≈80% state‐of‐health NCM90‐6‐4||graphite cells. It can be related to homogeneously W‐modified surface as well as smaller and elongated primary particles, whereas the latter are suggested to better compensate anisotropic lattice stress and decrease amount of microcracks, consequently minimizing further rise in surface area and the accompanied failure cascades (e.g., phase changes, metal dissolution, and crosstalk). Moreover, the different incorporation routes are shown to reveal different outcomes and demonstrate the complexity and sensitivity of W incorporation.

Mitophagy, the cellular process of selectively eliminating damaged mitochondria, plays a crucial role in maintaining metabolic balance and preventing insulin resistance, both key factors in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) development. When mitophagy malfunctions in diabetic neuropathy, it triggers a cascade of metabolic disruptions, including reduced energy production, increased oxidative stress, and cell death, ultimately leading to various complications. Thus, targeting mitophagy to enhance the process may have emerged as a promising therapeutic strategy for T2DM and its complications. Notably, plant-derived compounds with β-cell protective and mitophagy-stimulating properties offer potential as novel therapeutic agents. This review highlights the intricate mechanisms linking mitophagy dysfunction to T2DM and its complications, particularly neuropathy, elucidating potential therapeutic interventions for this debilitating disease.

Abstract Intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) is a chronic degenerative disease involving the aging and loss of proliferative capacity of nucleus pulposus cells (NPCs), processes heavily dependent on mitochondrial dynamics and autophagic flux. This study finds that the absence of BCL2/adenovirus E1B 19 kDa interacting protein 3 (BNIP3) is associated with senescence‐related NPC degeneration, disrupting mitochondrial quality control. Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) have multidirectional differentiation potential and produce extracellular vesicles containing cellular activators. Therefore, in this study, BMSCs are induced under hypoxic stimulation to deliver BNIP3‐rich extracellular vesicles to NPCs, thereby alleviating aging‐associated mitochondrial autophagic flux, promoting damaged mitochondrial clearance, and restoring mitochondrial quality control. Mechanistically, BNIP3 is shown to interact with the membrane‐bound protein annexin A2 (ANXA2), enabling the liberation of the transcription factor EB (TFEB) from the ANXA2‐TFEB complex, promoting TFEB nuclear translocation, and regulating autophagy and lysosomal gene activation. Furthermore, a rat model of IVDD is established and verified the in vivo efficacy of the exosomes in repairing disc injuries, delaying NPC aging, and promoting extracellular matrix (ECM) synthesis. In summary, hypoxia‐induced BMSC exosomes deliver BNIP3‐rich vesicles to alleviate disc degeneration by activating the mitochondrial BNIP3/ANXA2/TFEB axis, providing a new target for IVDD treatment.

Urbanization presents significant challenges to air quality and climate resilience, necessitating pioneering urban design solutions to enhance air circulation and mitigate pollutants. This urgency intensifies in densely populated and rapidly evolving regions like Wuhan, China, where effective strategies are crucial for sustainable development. This study introduces an innovative 3D Urban Form Optimization (3D-UFO) methodology aimed at advancing urban block design configurations to improve urbanization quality. The 3D-UFO approach systematically addresses the multifaceted challenges of climate change and air quality degradation in rapidly urbanizing areas. Integrating GIS-based analysis for comprehensive Land-Use and Land-Cover Change (LULCC) evaluation with Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), our approach employs systematic exploration guided by established urban airflow study protocols. Robust metrics—Airspeed-Ratio (ASR) and Average-Age-of-Local-Air (ALA)—quantify the impact of diverse urban block design strategies on air-circulation efficiency and pollutant dispersion. Analysis across various urban scenarios, yielded by the proposed 3D-UFO approach, reveal significant variations in air-circulation efficiency at street and building levels (SBLs). Optimal urban air circulation achieves efficiency levels of 50–70 % when airflow aligns orthogonally across and parallel to streets. Adjusting street-level building heights, especially incorporating taller structures, boosts ventilation efficiency by 20–30 %, which is crucial for improving airflow dynamics in urban settings. Higher Height-to-Width (H/W) ratios (>5.5) yield a 218.5 % increase in ventilation in specific urban layouts. Notably, the synergy of street-aspect-ratio and building-height-ratio adjustments significantly enhance ASR and ALA, providing a quantitative foundation for sustainable urban development. This 3D-UFO methodology, fusing LULCC analysis, CFD simulations, and systematic exploration, emerge as a valuable framework for urban planners and designers. The study offers informed insights into urban sustainability challenges, demonstrating advancements in addressing environmental concerns and improving living conditions within densely populated environments.

Background and aims: Maladaptive cognitive patterns including negative cognitive style and dysfunctional attitudes are major risk factors for depression. This study aimed to investigate the relationship of depression symptoms with emotional maturity and dysfunctional attitudes mediated by emotional divorce in married students. Methods: The statistical population included all married students at the Islamic Azad University of Ahvaz (Iran) during the academic year 2021–2022. A total of 301 students were selected as the research sample based on the research variables. The research instrument included Beck’s Depression Inventory, Emotional Maturity Scale, Dysfunctional Attitudes Scale, and Emotional Divorce Scale. Path analysis was used to evaluate the proposed model in SPSS version 27 and AMOS version 25. Results: The relationship between emotional maturity and emotional divorce was negative and significant (β=-0.45, P

Background: Considering the development of a knowledge-based economy in the world and Iran, identifying the effective components in the development of knowledge-based companies in the medical field is essential in line with the policy and economic development of the country. Methods: In this qualitative research, data was collected through in-depth and semi-structured interviews from faculty members, specialists and managers of organizations in charge of the country's knowledge-based ecosystem. The statistical population was selected by snowball sampling, and the scientific interviews continued until the theoretical saturation stage, and finally 19 interviews were conducted. All data were analyzed based on Brovan and Clark's six-step theme analysis method. Results: From data analysis, three main themes including the factors of " revision of the general policies of the country", "creating a suitable economic platform" and "revision of the performance of institutions in charge of knowledge-based economy" and 37 subthemes were extracted which were regarded as effective factors in the development of knowledge-based companies in the medical field. Conclusion: It is necessary to review the general and executive policies of the country for the development of knowledge-based companies, and the government must provide the basis for the development of knowledge-based companies by creating a suitable economic context, fighting economic rents, creating economic stability and reforming the banking network. It is also necessary to review the processes in the Deputy of Science, Technology and Knowledge-Based Economy and the Ministry of Health, Treatment and Medical Education.

Background: Breast cancer can cause significant emotional and psychological challenges for women and their families. The stress and anxiety associated with a cancer diagnosis can pave the way for the development of a variety of psychological disorders. This study investigated the potential mediating role of physical health in the association between distress tolerance and metaemotional awareness in women diagnosed with breast cancer.Methods: This study employed a descriptive correlational design, enrolling a convenience sample of women diagnosed with breast cancer who were receiving treatment at the hematology department of Shafa Hospital in Ahvaz City, Iran, between March and August 2023. A sample of 207 patients was selected using convenience sampling method. Distress Tolerance Scale, Meta-Emotion Scale, and Physical Health Questionnaire were used to collect data. The hypothesized model was assessed using structural equation modeling (SEM) with maximum likelihood estimation. Data analysis was performed using the SPSS version 27 and Amos version 25.Results: The results showed a significant correlation between physical health and distress tolerance in women with breast cancer (P

Abstract DNA nanostructures exhibit versatile geometries and possess sophisticated capabilities not found in other nanomaterials. They serve as customizable nanoplatforms for orchestrating the spatial arrangement of molecular components, such as biomolecules, antibodies, or synthetic nanomaterials. This is achieved by incorporating oligonucleotides into the design of the nanostructure. In the realm of drug delivery to cancer cells, there is a growing interest in active targeting assays to enhance efficacy and selectivity. The active targeting approach involves a “key‐lock” mechanism where the carrier, through its ligand, recognizes specific receptors on tumor cells, facilitating the release of drugs. Various DNA nanostructures, including DNA origami, Tetrahedral, nanoflower, cruciform, nanostar, nanocentipede, and nanococklebur, can traverse the lipid layer of the cell membrane, allowing cargo delivery to the nucleus. Aptamers, easily formed in vitro, are recognized for their targeted delivery capabilities due to their high selectivity for specific targets and low immunogenicity. This review provides a comprehensive overview of recent advancements in the formation and modification of aptamer‐modified DNA nanostructures within drug delivery systems.

BackgroundThe association between viral infections and colorectal cancer (CRC) remains an enigma in cancer research. Certain types of Human Papillomaviruses (hr-HPVs), known for their oncogenic properties, have been observed in particular CRC biopsies, further adding to the enigma surrounding this association.Materials and methodsThis cross-sectional study was conducted on 40 confirmed cases of CRC adenocarcinoma. The presence and genotyping of HPV DNA in colorectal fresh tissue and urine samples was assessed using an HPV DNA hybridization kit. A subset of serum samples from both CRC cases and healthy volunteers was randomly chosen and subjected to western blot to investigate the presence of HPV16 E6/E7 oncoproteins carried by exosomes.ResultsIt was observed that 26/40 HPV-positive CRC patients demonstrated 7 times more chance to develop colorectal cancer when compared to those 8/40 normal tissue (odds ratio [OR] = 7.4; confidence interval [CI] 95% = 0.483156–0.793718; p

Bioactive films based on sodium carboxymethyl tragacanth gum (CMT) and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) enriched with clove extract (CE) for potential wound healing applications were fabricated by the solution casting method. The fabricated films were characterized by FTIR, XRD, EDX, SEM, and TGA analyses. The XRD pattern of CMT/PVA/CE5 % showed an amorphous structure with broad peaks, suggesting that the presence of CE led to a reduction in crystallinity and an increase in amorphousness in the polymer film. The fabricated films showed a high water absorption capacity and swelled up to 80 % over 24 h for the CMT/PVA/CE5 % formulation crosslinked with 15 % citric acid. Excellent biodegradability with 88 % was observed in soil over 40 days for CMT/PVA/CE5 %. The presence of CE in CMT/PVA improved the antioxidant activity by up to 92 % within 30 min. Strong antibacterial effects of CMT/PVA/CE5 % film were observed against Salmonella enterica and Staphylococcus aureus, with inhibition zone diameters of 20 mm and 18 mm, respectively. Across concentrations from 25 to 600 μg/mL, CMT/PVA/CE5 % films displayed over 80 % cell viability on cultured human dermal fibroblasts after 48 h. The results indicated that CMT/PVA/CE5 % bioactive film can be employed as effective, non-toxic wound dressings with infection prevention and healing promotion capabilities.

Abstract Cancer therapy necessitates the development of novel and effective treatment modalities to combat the complexity of this disease. In this project, we propose a synergistic approach by combining chemo-photothermal treatment using gold nanorods (AuNRs) supported on thiol-functionalized mesoporous silica, offering a promising solution for enhanced lung cancer therapy. To begin, mesoporous MCM-41 was synthesized using a surfactant-templated sol–gel method, chosen for its desirable porous structure, excellent biocompatibility, and non-toxic properties. Further, thiol-functionalized MCM-41 was achieved through a simple grafting process, enabling the subsequent synthesis of AuNRs supported on thiol-functionalized MCM-41 (AuNR@S-MCM-41) via a gold-thiol interaction. The nanocomposite was then loaded with the anticancer drug doxorubicin (DOX), resulting in AuNR@S-MCM-41-DOX. Remarkably, the nanocomposite exhibited pH/NIR dual-responsive drug release behaviors, facilitating targeted drug delivery. In addition, it demonstrated exceptional biocompatibility and efficient internalization into A549 lung cancer cells. Notably, the combined photothermal-chemo therapy by AuNR@S-MCM-41-DOX exhibited superior efficacy in killing cancer cells compared to single chemo- or photothermal therapies. This study showcases the potential of the AuNR@S-MCM-41-DOX nanocomposite as a promising candidate for combined chemo-photothermal therapy in lung cancer treatment. The innovative integration of gold nanorods, thiol-functionalized mesoporous silica, and pH/NIR dual-responsive drug release provides a comprehensive and effective therapeutic approach for improved outcomes in lung cancer therapy. Future advancements based on this strategy hold promise for addressing the challenges posed by cancer and transforming patient care.

Abstract Background Preterm labor (PTL) is a common and serious pregnancy disorder that can cause long-term neurological issues in the infant. There are conflicting studies concerning whether sildenafil citrate (SC) reduces preterm labor complications. Therefore, the meta-analysis aimed to examine the clinical outcomes in women with threatened PTL who received nifedipine plus SC therapy versus only nifedipine. Methods For the original articles, six databases were searched using relevant keywords without restriction on time or language until January 13, 2024. The Cochrane risk-of-bias tool for randomized trials (RoB) and the Risk of Bias Assessment Tool for Nonrandomized Studies (RoBANS) were both used to assess the risk of bias in randomized and non-randomized studies, and GRADE determined the quality of our evidence. Meta-analysis of all data was carried out using Review Manager (RevMan) version 5.1. Results Seven studies with mixed quality were included in the meta-analysis. The study found that combining nifedipine and SC resulted in more prolongation of pregnancy (MD = 6.99, 95% CI: 5.32, 8.65, p

Infected wounds pose significant challenges in clinical settings due to the risk of complications and delayed healing of wounds. The most common wound dressings are cotton balls and gauze, and yet these traditional wound dressings have inherent shortcomings including low antibacterial properties, less oxygen permeation, mechanical properties, and moisture content essential for wound healing of infected wounds. Herein, we fabricate polyvinyl alcohol/chitosan/pectin (PVA/CH/PEC) hydrogel loaded with green-synthesized nanometals, and synthetic antibiotics for the treatment of infected wounds with enhanced mechanical properties, synergistic antibacterial properties, higher moisture, and oxygen permeation content. The silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), synthesized via sea buckthorn leaf extract, and ciprofloxacin were incorporated in the bio-nanocomposite hydrogels. The particle size of AgNPs was found to be in the range of 15 to 42 nm. The synthesized bio-nanocomposite hydrogels confirm its biocompatible nature because of reduction in the percentage hemolysis from 1.7% to 1.4% and cell viability exceeding 87% in PVA/CH/PEC and poly vinyl alcohol/chitosan/pectin–Silver/ ciprofloxacin (PVA/CH/PEC-Ag/cipro) hydrogel membranes, respectively. Microscopic observation of PVA/CH/PEC/Ag-Ciprofloxacin hydrogels demonstrated the last stages of regeneration and skin reformation towards normal skin as compared to hydrogel scaffold without ciprofloxacin. The hydrogel promoted advanced stages of regeneration and skin reformation, signifying its potential as a promising dressing material for infected wound healing applications.

The purpose of the current study was to examine the effectiveness of mentalization-based treatment in improving the self-consciousness and quality of life of mothers who have children diagnosed with intellectual developmental disorder. The study was quasi-experimental in nature, employing a pretest-posttest control group design with a two-month follow-up period. The statistical sample for the spring and summer of 2021 comprised the mothers of children diagnosed with intellectual developmental disorder residing in the town of Ardebil. A purposive sampling method was employed to select 37 mothers of children diagnosed with intellectual developmental disorder. These mothers were then randomly assigned to either the experimental or control group. Over the course of two months, the mothers in the experimental group attended eight sessions of mentalization-based treatment. This research employed the Self-Conscious Affect Questionnaire (SCAQ) and the Quality of Life Questionnaire (FQLQ). The data were analyzed utilizing SPSS-25 software and the mixed variance analysis procedure. Positive self-conscious affect (F=42.86; Eta=0.55; P=0001), negative self-conscious affect (F=51.84; Eta=0.59; P=0001), and quality of life (F=33.93; Eta=0.49; P=0001) were all significantly improved by mentalization-based treatment in mothers of children with intellectual developmental disorder. On the basis of the study’s results and findings, it is possible to conclude that mentalization-based treatment can be an effective method for enhancing the quality of life and self-awareness of mothers of children with intellectual developmental disorder. This is accomplished through the use of mindfulness-related techniques, including those involving thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.

Objective: The present study aimed to compare the effectiveness of cognitive behavioral couple therapy and Gottman couple therapy on marital satisfaction and problem solving styles of couples. Methods: The statistical population is all the referrals to the counseling and psychological services center in Mohr and Lamard cities in Fars province, Iran. Participants were 45 people that randomly selected and randomly assigned to cognitive-behavioral couple therapy group (15 people), Gottman couple therapy group (15 people) and control group (15 people). The ENRICH Marital Satisfaction (EMS) Scale was used to measure marital satisfaction and Cassidy and Long (1996) Problem-solving style questionnaire was used to measure problem solving styles. In order to analyze data, the mean and standard deviation were calculated in the descriptive statistics part and multivariate covariance analysis method was used in the inferential statistics part. Results: According to the results, cognitive behavioral couple therapy had a significant effect on marital satisfaction and problem solving styles. Also, results indicated that Gottman couple therapy had a significant effect on marital satisfaction and problem solving styles. Conclusions: According to the results there is a significant difference between two interventions in problem solving styles but there is no significant difference between two approaches.

Background and Purpose: The psychological wellbeing of adolescents has always been a focal point of research topic. Ignoring this issue could have irreversibly adverse effects on individuals and societies. The present study investigated the mediating role of sexual intimacy in relationships between the attitude and sexual health and self-differentiation of mothers with the psychological wellbeing of adolescents living in Ahvaz City, Iran. Materials and Methods: Conducted during the academic year 2021–2022, the descriptive-correlational recruited study students from Ahvaz senior high schools and their mothers. Using the stratified cluster sampling, 300 students and their mothers participated in this study as the study sample. The research instruments included the psychological wellbeing scale, the attitude scale toward sexual health, the differentiation of self-inventory, and the marital intimacy questionnaire. The Pearson correlation coefficient was used to assess the correlation between the study variables. Bootstrap analysis gauged the significance of mediating relationships. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was employed to evaluate the proposed model using SPSS software, version 27 and AMOS software, version 25. Results: The results showed that all direct paths to the psychological wellbeing of adolescents were significant, except for the self-differentiation of mothers (P

Abstract Among the causative agents of neonatal diarrhoea in calves, two of the most prevalent are bovine coronavirus (BCoV) and the intracellular parasite Cryptosporidium parvum. Although several studies indicate that co-infections are associated with greater symptom severity, the host–pathogen interplay remains unresolved. Here, our main objective was to investigate the modulation of the transcriptome of HCT-8 cells during single and co-infections with BCoV and C. parvum. For this, HCT-8 cells were inoculated with (1) BCoV alone, (2) C. parvum alone, (3) BCoV and C. parvum simultaneously. After 24 and 72 h, cells were harvested and analyzed using high-throughput RNA sequencing. Following differential expression analysis, over 6000 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified in virus-infected and co-exposed cells at 72 hpi, whereas only 52 DEGs were found in C. parvum-infected cells at the same time point. Pathway (KEGG) and gene ontology (GO) analysis showed that DEGs in the virus-infected and co-exposed cells were mostly associated with immune pathways (such as NF-κB, TNF-α or, IL-17), apoptosis and regulation of transcription, with a more limited effect exerted by C. parvum. Although the modulation observed in the co-infection was apparently dominated by the virus, over 800 DEGs were uniquely expressed in co-exposed cells at 72 hpi. Our findings provide insights on possible biomarkers associated with co-infection, which could be further explored using in vivo models.

In Iran, a large number of adolescents compete every year to enter university, given the better job opportunities that may exist after graduation. The hope of having more education affects students' academic engagement. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between academic hope and academic engagement with the mediating role of academic buoyancy, using the Academic Hope Scale, Academic Buoyancy Scale, and Academic Engagement Scale. The participants in the study were 353 Iranian students in the last year of high school who had applied to enter university in 2019. Data were analysed using structural equation modelling procedures. The results showed that there was a direct significant relationship between academic hope (p [less than or equal to] 0.01, [beta] = 0.19) and academic buoyancy (p [less than or equal to] 0.01, [beta] = 0.25) with academic engagement. There was a direct and significant relationship between academic hope and academic buoyancy (p [less than or equal to] 0.01, [beta] = 0.33). And academic buoyancy partially mediated the relationship between academic hope and academic engagement. The discussion concerns the potential benefits of implementing interventions designed to enhance academic hope to increase learners' academic engagement.

Background: Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 was first reported in December 2019 and it has spread globally ever since. The HLA system is crucial in directing anti-viral immunity and recent studies are investigating the possible involvement of the HLA genes on the severity of immune inflammation in different phases of COVID-19. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, peripheral blood-extracted genomic DNAs of 109 COVID-19 patients and 70 healthy controls were genotyped for different alleles of HLA-A, HLA-B, and HLA-DRB1 loci using sequence-specific primer PCR method. Results: The results indicated that frequencies of HLA-DRB1*11:01 and HLA-DRB1*04:03 were significantly higher in severe patients rather than moderates (p: