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Most of the cities in Iran have experienced very rapid development. The urban population in the last decade has been increased by migration, and cities in Iran are faced with many problems. Housing is becoming one of the major problems, and standard housing indices have taken an important place in urban planning to provide good conditions for better urban planning. Region 6 of Tehran municipality is home to a large portion of upper-middle social class people for whom owning a house is more than merely a place to live. The aim of the research was to analyze qualitative and quantitative indices for Region 6 of Tehran municipality. The study is based on analytical and descriptive methods. The secondary data collected from the latest Iran census report in 2016 and composite methods used to measure the special effects of changes in population size, growth rate, and indices of quantitative and qualitative assessment are wide-ranging housing which was analyzed based on the t-test, correlation test and regression with SPSS and GIS software. GIS software is used as an effective tool for generating maps to better understanding the behaviors of residents in a neighborhood. The result shows that Region 6 of Tehran is among the areas of serious urban decline and neighborhoods in the neighboring regions are influenced by the activities of other bordering neighborhoods.

Despite numerous studies in the field of dementia and Alzheimer's disease (AD), a comprehensive understanding of this devastating disease remains elusive. Bulk transcriptomics have provided insights into the underlying genetic factors at a high level. Subsequent technological advancements have focused on single-cell omics, encompassing techniques such as single-cell RNA sequencing and epigenomics, enabling the capture of RNA transcripts and chromatin states at a single cell or nucleus resolution. Furthermore, the emergence of spatial omics has allowed the study of gene responses in the vicinity of amyloid beta plaques or across various brain regions. With the vast amount of data generated, utilizing gene regulatory networks to comprehensively study this disease has become essential. This review delves into some techniques employed in the field of AD, explores the discoveries made using these techniques, and provides insights into the future of the field.

Purpose: Recent studies show that lowest bidder tech­nique is mainly used in developing countries such as India to award a contract. It has been demonstrated that the lowest bid is not always the accurate one and can lead to cost overruns and time extensions amongst other prob­lems. The aim of this study was to investigate the critical factors impacting contractor’s efficiency in Indian con­struction projects. Research approach: A survey was sent to participants of construction projects awarded by the government with the lowest bidder technique in Uttar Pradesh, India. For further research, snowball sampling was used, and struc­tured interviews were conducted amongst experienced managers and engineers of these projects on both client’s and contractor’s side.Findings: It was observed that, to a greater extent, the delays were caused due to contractor’s opportunistic behaviour. The main findings are that new bidding meth­odologies are to be tested as they can lead to the choice of a more accurate and realistic bidder. In addition, subjec­tive evaluation components, such as schedule and work­force, should be reflected in contract award methods in addition to the cost criteria. Further studies should be per­formed on the choice of contract awarding methodology based on the project size and type. Originality value: The researcher’s focus was to analyze the influence of contracting methodologies and factors affecting contractor’s performance in lowest bid award project, where this is an area of least focus amongst researchers in the Indian subcontinent.

As an alternative solution to solve different reading comprehension problems in learning English as a foreign language (EFL), it is necessary to implement a blended learning model that combines both online and face-to-face (f2f) teaching modes. This study aimed at investigating the impact of blended learning on Iranian intermediate EFL learners' reading proficiency. Sixty EFL learners were chosen based on their performance on Oxford Placement Test. Then, they were divided into two groups (an experimental and a control group). The experimental group received reading materials through blending learning techniques and the control group received training in the traditional way. During treatment, the teacher designed and assigned activities for students to read the text effectively and reinforce their comprehension. The activities were designed to teach reading like scanning, skimming, and reading for accurate comprehension. Afterward, both groups participated in the reading post-test at the end of the study. The results showed that the experimental group outperformed the control group in the post-test of reading comprehension and the intra-group progress was higher for the experimental group than the control group.

Sharing human brain data can yield scientific benefits, but because of various disincentives, only a fraction of these data is currently shared. We profile three successful data-sharing experiences from the NIH BRAIN Initiative Research Opportunities in Humans (ROH) Consortium and demonstrate benefits to data producers and to users.

Abstract Background The apparent lack of additional missense mutations data on mixed-phenotype leukemia is noteworthy. Single amino acid substitution by these non-synonymous single nucleotide variations can be related to many pathological conditions and may influence susceptibility to disease. This case-control study aimed to unravel whether the ZAP70 missense variant (rs104893674 (C > A)) underpinning mixed-phenotype leukemia. Methods The rs104893674 was genotyped in clients who were mixed-phenotype acute leukemia-, acute lymphoblastic leukemia- and acute myeloid leukemia-positive and matched healthy controls, which have been referred to all major urban hospitals from multiple provinces of country- wide, IRAN, from February 11’ 2019 to June 10’ 2023, by amplification refractory mutation system-polymerase chain reaction method. Direct sequencing for rs104893674 of the ZAP70 gene was performed in a 3130 Genetic Analyzer. Results We found that the AC genotype of individuals with A allele at this polymorphic site (heterozygous variant-type) contribute to the genetic susceptibility to acute leukemia of both forms, acute myeloid leukemia and acute lymphoblastic leukemia as well as with a mixed phenotype. In other words, the ZAP70 missense variant (rs104893674 (C > A)) increases susceptibility of distinct cell populations of different (myeloid and lymphoid) lineages to exhibiting cancer phenotype. The results were all consistent with genotype data obtained using a direct DNA sequencing technique. Conclusion Of special interest are pathogenic missense mutations, since they generate variants that cause specific molecular phenotypes through protein destabilization. Overall, we discovered that the rs104893674 (C > A) variant chance in causing mixed-phenotype leukemia is relatively high.

Abstract This study investigates using magnesium foliar spray to enhance mint plants' growth and physiological performance under cadmium toxicity. It examines the effects of foliar application of magnesium oxide (40 mg L−1), in both nano and bulk forms, on mint plants exposed to cadmium stress (60 mg kg−1 soil). Cadmium stress reduced root growth and activity, plant biomass (32%), leaf hydration (19%), chlorophyll levels (27%), magnesium content (51%), and essential oil yield (35%), while increasing oxidative and osmotic stress in leaf tissues. Foliar application of magnesium increased root growth (32%), plant biomass, essential oil production (17%), leaf area (24%), chlorophyll content (10%), soluble sugar synthesis (33%), and antioxidant enzyme activity, and reduced lipid peroxidation and osmotic stress. Although the nano form of magnesium enhanced magnesium absorption, its impact on growth and physiological performance was not significantly different from the bulk form. Therefore, foliar application of both forms improves plants' ability to withstand cadmium toxicity. However, the study is limited by its focus on a single plant species and specific environmental conditions, which may affect the generalizability of the results. The long-term sustainability of such treatments could provide a more comprehensive understanding of magnesium's role in mitigating heavy metal stress in plants.

Abstract Data access committees (DAC) gatekeep access to secured genomic and related health datasets yet are challenged to keep pace with the rising volume and complexity of data generation. Automated decision support (ADS) systems have been shown to support consistency, compliance, and coordination of data access review decisions. However, we lack understanding of how DAC members perceive the value add of ADS, if any, on the quality and effectiveness of their reviews. In this qualitative study, we report findings from 13 semi-structured interviews with DAC members from around the world to identify relevant barriers and facilitators to implementing ADS for genomic data access management. Participants generally supported pilot studies that test ADS performance, for example in cataloging data types, verifying user credentials and tagging datasets for use terms. Concerns related to over-automation, lack of human oversight, low prioritization, and misalignment with institutional missions tempered enthusiasm for ADS among the DAC members we engaged. Tensions for change in institutional settings within which DACs operated was a powerful motivator for why DAC members considered the implementation of ADS into their access workflows, as well as perceptions of the relative advantage of ADS over the status quo. Future research is needed to build the evidence base around the comparative effectiveness and decisional outcomes of institutions that do/not use ADS into their workflows.

Introduction: In January 2020, WHO declared the 2019 Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) a pandemic. Though COVID-19 vaccines are recommended, ongoing surveillance is crucial due to potential unforeseen events. Evaluation of long-term effectiveness and safety and addressing emerging variants are vital. This study integrates systematic reviews to assess COVID-19 vaccine efficacy, immunogenicity, and safety comprehensively. Methods: This study was an umbrella review study on the feasibility and effectiveness of vaccines for COVID-19. We conducted a comprehensive search in PubMed, Web of Sciences, and Scopus, using MeSH terms and keywords related to COVID-19 vaccines. Inclusion criteria comprised peer-reviewed systematic reviews and meta-analyses in English, focusing on feasibility and effectiveness. Exclusion criteria targeted non-systematic reviews exclusively on vaccine safety and duplicates. Two independent reviewers screened and resolved discrepancies. Data extraction included key details. Methodological quality was assessed using the ROBIS tool. Data synthesis involves narrative and, if applicable, quantitative synthesis (meta-analysis). Reporting followed PRISMA guidelines. Results: A total of 32 systematic reviews were included in the study, of which 20 also conducted a meta-analysis. The studies investigated in the included reviews ranged from 7 to 74. The included articles were conducted in various countries around the globe. The findings indicated that COVID-19 vaccines are generally safe and effective for individuals with various medical conditions. The overall risk of bias for the included studies was assessed as low risk. Conclusion: The study outcomes indicated that mRNA vaccines exhibit a higher incidence of adverse events but demonstrate greater efficacy. Conversely, inactivated and protein subunit vaccines are safer but exhibit lower efficiency. Moreover, the vaccine is considered safe for individuals with specific conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease, solid organ transplant recipients, children, pregnant individuals, and those with hematologic problems. Ultimately, the acceptance of the COVID-19 vaccine among individuals is influenced by various factors, including geographic, socioeconomic, and pandemic-related considerations.

Abstract While considerable scholarship has explored responsibilities owed to research participants at the conclusion of explanatory clinical trials, no guidance exists regarding responsibilities owed at the conclusion of a pragmatic clinical trial (PCT). Yet post‐trial responsibilities in PCTs present distinct considerations from those emphasized in existing guidance and prior scholarship. Among these considerations include the responsibilities of the healthcare delivery systems in which PCTs are embedded, and decisions about implementation for interventions that demonstrate meaningful benefit following their integration into usual care settings—or deimplementation for those that fail to do so. In this article, we present an overview of prior scholarship and guidance on post‐trial responsibilities, and then identify challenges for post‐trial responsibilities for PCTs. We argue that, given one of the key rationales for PCTs is that they can facilitate uptake of their results by relevant decision‐makers, there should be a presumptive default that PCT study results be incorporated into future care delivery processes. Fulfilling this responsibility will require prospective planning by researchers, healthcare delivery system leaders, institutional review boards, and sponsors, so as to ensure that the knowledge gained from PCTs does, in fact, influence real‐world practice.

Abstract In this report, we investigate dynamic light scattering (DLS) from both randomly diffusing silica particles and acousto-responsive microgels in aqueous dispersions under ultrasonic vibration. Employing high-frequency ultrasound (US) with low amplitude ensures that the polymers remain intact without damage. We derive theoretical expressions for the homodyne autocorrelation function, incorporating the US term alongside the diffusion term. Subsequently, we successfully combined US with a conventional DLS system to experimentally characterize compact silica particles and microgels under the influence of US. Our model allows us to extract essential parameters, including particle size, frequency, and amplitude of particle vibration, based on the correlation function of the scattered light intensity. The studies involving non-responsive silica particles demonstrate that the US does not disrupt size determination, establishing them as suitable reference systems. In addition, we could be able to experimentally resolve the µs-order motion of particles for the first time. Microgels subjected to the US show the same swelling/shrinking behavior as that induced by temperature but with significantly faster kinetics. The findings of this study have potential applications in various industrial and biomedical fields such as smart coatings and drug delivery that benefit from the characterization of macromolecules subjected to the US. Furthermore, the current work may lead to characterizing the mechanical properties of soft particles based on their vibration amplitude extracted using this method.

Abstract Introduction Pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period cause significant physical and psychological changes in mothers, leading to changes in their sexual self-concept and adverse effects on their sexual self-confidence and self-efficacy. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the effect of sexual education on postpartum women’s sexual self-efficacy and self-confidence. Method This randomized interventional study was conducted on 115 women who had given birth at least six weeks ago and attended healthcare centers. Using convenience sampling, the researchers randomly allocated the participants into two intervention and control groups through a block size of six. The intervention group received six 90-minute online training sessions based on the sexual self-concept model over one month, while the control group received routine care. To collect data, the self-efficacy and sexual confidence questionnaires by Buzwell and Rosenthal were used before the intervention, immediately after the intervention, and one month later. Results The study findings demonstrated no significant differences in demographic characteristics, sexual self-confidence, and sexual self-efficacy scores between the two groups before the intervention. However, the repeated measures ANOVA results revealed a substantial increase in sexual self-confidence and self-efficacy scores over time in the intervention group immediately after participating in the training sessions and one month later. Conclusion Considering the effect of training based on the sexual self-concept model on postpartum women, the researchers recommend using this model to improve their sexual self-efficacy and self-confidence after childbirth. Clinical trial registration This study is registered at the Iranian Registry Clinical Trial (IRCT20220530055025N1).

Background and Objectives: During the coronavirus pandemic, the overuse of antibiotics to reduce coinfections and mortality may be contributing to the rise of antimicrobial resistance. In this study, we aim to investigate the antibiotic resistance changes of Acinetobacter baumannii post-COVID-19 pandemic in Northern Iran. Materials and Methods: The current study is a cross-sectional study. Between 2022 and 2023, 2190 clinical samples were collected from patients with healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) at four hospitals in Sari, which served as corona centers after the COVID-19 pandemic. Antimicrobial sensitivity was determined using standard broth macro-dilution, and resistance genes were detected using multiplex PCR. Results: Based on the results co-amoxiclav had a resistance rate of 100%, while piperacillin/tazobactam showed the least resistance rate of 29.82%. In terms of GM MIC values, colistin was the most potent against multi-drug resistant isolates. The frequency of blaOXA-51, ampC, aphA6, and blaNDM genes were 100%, 99.12%, 90.35%, and 69.30% respectively. Conclusion: Our study revealed high multi-drug resistance rates. Piperacillin/tazobactam recommended for treating multidrug resistant Acinetobacter baumannii infections in Northern Iran.

Background. Copper is an essential trace element found in the human body in an oxidized (Cu II) and reduced (Cu I) form. It plays a crucial role in the integrity and function of proteins and enzymes. Short-term and long-term exposure to copper can result in harmful effects and lead to clinical manifestations in multiple bodily systems, including the gastrointestinal tract, liver, kidneys, eyes, respiratory, cardiovascular, central nervous, endocrine, and hematopoietic systems. Objective. The purpose of this study is the importance of early recognition and diagnosis of copper poisoning immediate and necessary measures and the use of chelators. Materials and Methods. In this review article, authors from Pub Med, Scopus, and a toxicologic emergencies reference book from 1996 to 2024 are used. Result. An excessive increase in copper level produces reactive oxygen species that can cause lipid peroxidation in cell membranes, direct oxidation of proteins, and the breakdown of DNA and RNA molecules. All of these can generally be reasons for cell death. Conclusion. Assessing levels of copper in whole blood, free serum copper, 24-hr urine copper, liver biopsy for copper concentration, and ceruloplasmin play a crucial role in the diagnosis. The blood copper concentration is directly related to the severity of poisoning. Treatment for copper poisoning typically involves removing the source of exposure and administering medications to help remove the excess copper from the body. Supportive care for copper intoxication usually includes managing vomiting, correcting fluids and electrolytes, and stabilizing vital signs. Chelators like D-penicillamine, succimer, trientine, tetrathiomolybdate, and PBT-2 have been utilized in treatment.