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Cisplatin is an anticancer drug that can be used to treat a variety of solid tumors, where clinical use may be affected by several factors, including dose-limiting side effects and the emergence of drug resistance. Micellar-forming polymeric conjugates are a type of polymeric nanocarrier that can preferentially accumulate in tumors, thereby increasing therapeutic efficacy. In the current study, carboxylated PiPOx was synthesized first using a click reaction of 2-isopropenyl 2-oxazoline (iPOx) with thioglycolic acid (TGA) or methyl thioglycolate, followed by methyl triflate-initiated cationic ring opening polymerization (CROP). Next, different strategies were employed to prepare carboxylated PiPOx-mPEG copolymers: (a) CROP was initiated by iPOx-modified mPEG-thiol, (b) TGA-modified PiPOx were end-capped with mPEG-NH2, or (c) TGA-modified iPOx and iPOx-modified mPEG-thiol were randomly copolymerized. 1H-NMR, FT-IR, SEC, and potentiometric titration methods were used to characterize the synthesized polymers. Cisplatin-polymer conjugation was performed at three ratios of drug-to-polymer carboxyl groups (0.25, 0.5, and 1), and the conjugated cisplatin content was determined using UV–vis spectroscopy at 705 nm with O-phenylenediamine reagent. The cisplatin loading efficiencies (%) were 59.3, 26.7, and 91.0 for the respective copolymers at the chosen cisplatin/carboxyl 1:1 mol ratio. Cisplatin-conjugated PiPOx(TGA)-b-mPEG and mPEG-g-PiPOx(TGA) had mean hydrodynamic sizes of 113.3 and 178.8 nm, respectively. TEM imaging confirmed the formation of discrete and spherical particles of the cisplatin-conjugated copolymer. The MTT cytotoxicity assay demonstrated higher cytotoxicity of PiPOx(TGA)-b-mPEG compared to PiPOx(TGA)-g-mPEG polymers in both sensitive and resistant ovarian cancer cells. The IC50 values were approximately 113 µg/ml for PiPOx(TGA)-b-mPEG and 232 µg/ml for PiPOx(TGA)-g-mPEG in resistant tumor cells, confirming the potential application of cisplatin-conjugated copolymers in cancer chemotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Leishmaniasis is a parasitic disease caused by the Leishmania protozoan affecting millions of people worldwide, especially in tropical and subtropical regions. The immune response involves the activation of various cells to eliminate the infection. Understanding the complex interplay between Leishmania and the host immune system is crucial for developing effective treatments against this disease. Methods: This study collected extensive transcriptomic data from macrophages, dendritic, and NK cells exposed to Leishmania spp. Our objective was to determine the Leishmania-responsive genes in immune system cells by applying meta-analysis and feature selection algorithms, followed by co-expression analysis. Results: As a result of meta-analysis, we discovered 703 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), primarily associated with the immune system and cellular metabolic processes. In addition, we have substantiated the significance of transcription factor families, such as bZIP and C2H2 ZF, in response to Leishmania infection. Furthermore, the feature selection techniques revealed the potential of two genes, namely G0S2 and CXCL8, as biomarkers and therapeutic targets for Leishmania infection. Lastly, our co-expression analysis has unveiled seven hub genes, including PFKFB3, DIAPH1, BSG, BIRC3, GOT2, EIF3H, and ATF3, chiefly related to signaling pathways. Conclusions: These findings provide valuable insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying the response of immune system cells to Leishmania infection and offer novel potential targets for the therapeutic goals. Author summary: Leishmaniasis is a group of diseases caused by protozoan parasites belonging to the genus Leishmania. The infection involves various cells, and effective diagnosis and treatment require a clear understanding of its multiple aspects. We conducted a study using meta-analysis and feature selection algorithms combined with co-expression analysis to shed light on the key responsive genes and mechanisms involved in Leishmania infection. Our findings revealed transcriptional signatures associated with essential cellular metabolic functions and immune system response. We also confirmed the critical role of transcription factor families, including bZIP and C2H2 ZF, in response to Leishmania infection. The applied feature selection techniques identified two genes that show potential as Leishmania infection biomarkers and treatment targets. Moreover, our co-expression analysis identified seven crucial hub genes in signaling pathways. These findings provide valuable insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying the immune system cells' response to Leishmania infection and present novel potential targets for therapeutic intervention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we explore the noncommutative space–time to revive the idea that gamma-ray excess in the galactic center may stem from the annihilation of particle dark matter. In the noncommutative theory, the photon spectrum is produced by direct emission during this annihilation wherein a photon can be embed in the final state together with other direct products in new vertices. In the various configurations of dark matter phenomenology, we pursue the most prevalent model known as singlet scalar. Calculating the relevant aspects of the model and determining the parameters phase space, we derive the photon flux in the galactic center. This region, known for its high density and occasional existence of robust magnetic fields, serves as an ideal location for investigating theories that encompass the concept of Lorentz symmetry breaking. Upon comparing our numerical achievements with experimental data, it becomes evident that noncommutative space–time can be a reliable framework to explain the gamma-ray excess. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An examination was undertaken on the alkali-silica reaction (ASR) in alkali-activated slag (AAS) mixtures in comparison with ordinary portland cement (OPC) mortars and concretes. The ASR expansion in AAS mortars and concretes with different alkali contents (5%, 6%, 7%, and 8%) was examined. Changes in mechanical properties (compressive strength, tensile strength, and flexural strength) resulting from ASR expansion were evaluated. A correlation was sought between the changes in the mechanical properties of mixtures caused by ASR and ASR expansion. The test results revealed that the ASR expansion of all AAS mixtures was less than that of OPC mixtures. The expansion of AAS mixtures was below the threshold value established by the standard specifications. Additionally, it was possible to use mechanical properties to assess the occurrence of ASR due to the significant drop in these parameters caused by ASR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coordinated peri-ripple activity in the hippocampal-neocortical network is essential for mnemonic information processing in the brain. Hippocampal ripples likely serve different functions in sleep and awake states. Thus, the corresponding neocortical activity patterns may differ in important ways. We addressed this possibility by conducting voltage and glutamate wide-field imaging of the neocortex with concurrent hippocampal electrophysiology in awake mice. Contrary to our previously published sleep results, deactivation and activation were dominant in post-ripple neocortical voltage and glutamate activity, respectively, especially in the agranular retrosplenial cortex (aRSC). Additionally, the spiking activity of aRSC neurons, estimated by two-photon calcium imaging, revealed the existence of two subpopulations of excitatory neurons with opposite peri-ripple modulation patterns: one increases and the other decreases firing rate. These differences in peri-ripple spatiotemporal patterns of neocortical activity in sleep versus awake states might underlie the reported differences in the function of sleep versus awake ripples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Non-targeted persistent immune activation or suppression by different drug delivery platforms can cause adverse and chronic physiological effects including cancer and arthritis. Therefore, non-toxic materials that do not trigger an immunogenic response during delivery are crucial for safe and effective in vivo treatment. Hydrogels are excellent candidates that can be engineered to control immune responses by modulating biomolecule release/adsorption, improving regeneration of lymphoid tissues, and enhancing function during antigen presentation. This review discusses the aspects of hydrogel-based systems used as drug delivery platforms for various diseases. A detailed investigation on different immunomodulation strategies for various delivery options and deliberate upon the outlook of such drug delivery platforms are conducted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is the first-line treatment in couples suffering from various causes of subfertility and infertility. Considering the relatively low rate of pregnancy achieved with each cycle in this method, optimizing various steps in the process including the time interval from sperm collection to IUI may result in an increased rate of success. The goal of this study was to assess the impact of time intervals from the end of sperm processing to IUI (SP-IUI) on the pregnancy rate in IUI. Materials and methods: This single-center prospective cohort study evaluated couples with normal male partner sperm analysis and idiopathic female infertility undergoing IUI from 2018 to 2021. Cycles were stimulated using subcutaneous recombinant FSH and oral Letrozole. Ovulation was triggered using GnRH antagonist when the leading follicle's size reached greater than 14mm. The participants were placed in one of the three groups based on SP-IUI: group 1 (0--60 min), group II (60--90 min), and Group III: (>90 min). Results: 269 couples were included in the study. Sperm processing expectedly resulted in an increased concentration of total sperm count and sperm motility (P<0.001). The rate of chemical or clinical pregnancy, abortion, IUFD, multigestation, pregnancy, term birth, and ectopic pregnancy was not significantly different across study groups (P>0.05). Conclusion: The results of this study suggest that SP-IUI intervals evaluated in this study do not vary in terms of pregnancy rate or adverse pregnancy outcomes in IUI with normal male partner semen analysis. Hence, infertile couples can be flexible in the collection of semen specimens without time and site (at home or hospital) limitations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel series of diphenylquinoxaline-6-carbohydrazide hybrids 7a–o were rationally designed and synthesized as anti-diabetic agents. All synthesized compounds 7a–o were screened as possible α-glucosidase inhibitors and exhibited good inhibitory activity with IC50 values in the range of 110.6 ± 6.0 to 453.0 ± 4.7 µM in comparison with acarbose as the positive control (750.0 ± 10.5 µM). An exception in this trend came back to a compound 7k with IC50 value > 750 µM. Furthermore, the most potent derivative 7e bearing 3-fluorophenyl moiety was further explored by kinetic studies and showed the competitive type of inhibition. Additionally, the molecular docking of all derivatives was performed to get an insight into the binding mode of these derivatives within the active site of the enzyme. In silico assessments exhibited that 7e was well occupied in the binding pocket of the enzyme through favorable interactions with residues, correlating to the experimental results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The magnitude of the health problems caused by leishmaniasis has been a major driving factor behind the development and implementation of leishmaniasis control programs by the national authorities in Iran, with a priority for health and environmental management. Such programs are not achievable unless all of the factors leading to the infection, including the parasite's life-cycle, vectors and reservoirs, are recognized. So far in Iran, humans and rodents have been considered the principal reservoirs of Leishmania tropica and Leishmania major, respectively, both associated with cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL), with domestic dogs considered to be the main reservoir for Leishmania infantum, associated with visceral leishmaniasis (VL). The role of other mammals in maintaining the Leishmania parasite has remained unclear. This study aimed to investigate Leishmania infection among livestock in endemic areas of VL and CL in Fars province, southern Iran, using serological and molecular methods. Methods: Blood samples from 181 clinically healthy livestock, including 49 sheep, 114 goats, 16 cattle and two donkeys, were screened to detect Leishmania DNA and anti-Leishmania antibodies using qPCR (quantitative PCR) and the direct agglutination test (DAT), respectively. Four qPCR-positive samples were amplified using the internal transcribed spacer one (ITS1) primers in conventional PCR and sent for directional sequencing. Results: Of the 181 livestock tested, 51 (28.2%) were infected with Leishmania, using serological and molecular methods. Anti-Leishmania antibodies were detected in 70 (38.7%) (95% confidence interval [CI]: 31.5–46.2) and Leishmania DNA in 93 (51.4%) (95% CI: 43.9–58.9) livestock. The identified Leishmania spp. were L. infantum and L. major. Conclusions: The findings of the present study show a relatively high prevalence of Leishmania infection among livestock in endemic areas of the disease, in Fars province, southern Iran. Given the large population of this group of animals and the fact that they live in the vicinity of the main reservoirs of the disease and vectors, it seems that sand flies regularly bite these animals. Further studies are needed to determine the role of livestock in the parasite's life-cycle and the epidemiology of Leishmania infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Query ID="Q1" Text="Graphical abstract: As per journal requirements, graphical abstract is necessary. Kindly check and provide the same."The magnitude of the health problems caused by leishmaniasis has been a major driving factor behind the development and implementation of leishmaniasis control programs by the national authorities in Iran, with a priority for health and environmental management. Such programs are not achievable unless all of the factors leading to the infection, including the parasite's life-cycle, vectors and reservoirs, are recognized. So far in Iran, humans and rodents have been considered the principal reservoirs of Leishmania tropica and Leishmania major, respectively, both associated with cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL), with domestic dogs considered to be the main reservoir for Leishmania infantum, associated with visceral leishmaniasis (VL). The role of other mammals in maintaining the Leishmania parasite has remained unclear. This study aimed to investigate Leishmania infection among livestock in endemic areas of VL and CL in Fars province, southern Iran, using serological and molecular methods. Methods: Blood samples from 181 clinically healthy livestock, including 49 sheep, 114 goats, 16 cattle and two donkeys, were screened to detect Leishmania DNA and anti-Leishmania antibodies using qPCR (quantitative PCR) and the direct agglutination test (DAT), respectively. Four qPCR-positive samples were amplified using the internal transcribed spacer one (ITS1) primers in conventional PCR and sent for directional sequencing. Results: Of the 181 livestock tested, 51 (28.2%) were infected with Leishmania, using serological and molecular methods. Anti-Leishmania antibodies were detected in 70 (38.7%) (95% confidence interval [CI]: 31.5–46.2) and Leishmania DNA in 93 (51.4%) (95% CI: 43.9–58.9) livestock. The identified Leishmania spp. were L. infantum and L. major. Conclusions: The findings of the present study show a relatively high prevalence of Leishmania infection among livestock in endemic areas of the disease, in Fars province, southern Iran. Given the large population of this group of animals and the fact that they live in the vicinity of the main reservoirs of the disease and vectors, it seems that sand flies regularly bite these animals. Further studies are needed to determine the role of livestock in the parasite's life-cycle and the epidemiology of Leishmania infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To evaluate the diagnostic performance of five alternative serodiagnostic tests, serum samples from 100 confirmed visceral leishmaniasis (VL) patients, 197 healthy endemic individuals, and 58 non-VL patients living in southern Iran were compared. The VL patients were defined as individuals with a positive result of the immunofluorescent antibody test (IFAT), having clinical signs and symptoms and appropriate response to treatment. The index tests were two direct agglutination tests, DAT-ITM (Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium) and DAT-KIT (Royal Tropical Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands), and three rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs), Kalazar Detect (InBios International Inc., USA), IT Leish (Bio-Rad, catalog 710124), and Leishmania test (Cypress Diagnostic Company, Belgium). Sensitivities of DAT-ITM and DAT-KIT were low, respectively, 56% and 59%, while specificities were acceptable, respectively, 98% and 93%. Observed sensitivities and specificities of RDTs were higher (71%, 81%, 70% and 99%, 99%, 98% for Kalazar Detect, IT Leish, and Leishmania test, respectively). Even with a maximum sensitivity of 81%, RDTs missed almost one-fifth of VL patients that were positive in IFAT. We conclude that RDTs in VL patients do not possess adequate performance in southern Iran and require some improvement, but they can still be helpful in the diagnosis and screening of the disease in this region due to their high specificity and speed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

UMP2 calculations with aug-cc-pVTZ basis set used to analyse intermolecular interactions in X3C···PH2Y···ClY (X = H, CH3; Y = CN, NC) complexes constructed via halogen bond and single-electron pnicogen bond in two discovered minima in the potential energy surface. The first minima presents short P−C distances and, in all cases, high interaction energies compared to the second one that shows long P−C distances with a typical weak pnicogen bond interaction. The impacts of the halogen bonds on the single-electron pnicogen interaction in each complex are systematically investigated by the means of cooperative effects. In all cases studied, a favorable cooperativity is observed but these values are much higher for first minima, which ranges from −19.73 to −36.82 kJ mol−1, than second minima with cooperative energy values between −0.75 and −4.69 kJ mol1. In order to unveil the mechanism of the cooperativity, these effects are analysed in terms of geometric, energetic, electrostatic potential analysis, electron charge density analysis performed using (QTAIM), many-body interaction analysis and electron density analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and aims: COVID-19 is a pandemic and infectious disease with high morbidity and mortality rates as well as a global spread. This study aimed to investigate the clinical outcomes for patients afflicted with COVID-19 and treated with remdesivir. Methods: In this clinical trial study, patients with severe COVID-19 confirmed by molecular testing and hospitalized at Hajar Hospital of Shahrekord in Iran were divided into standard care group (including 52 patients) and standard + remdesivir group (including 51 patients). The patients were examined for clinical symptoms, laboratory data, as well as mortality and recovery rates during the treatment period. Then the data were analyzed by SPSS version 23 using chi-square, independent t-test and repeated-measures ANOVA. Result: Clinical and laboratory monitoring on days 5, 10, and 14 showed that there was no significant difference between two groups (P>0.05). In addition, there was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of hospitalization duration and ICU rate (58.8% versus 51.9%, P=0.48). The trend of Lymph count and platelet decreased significantly in the standard group (P=0.003, P=0.04, and P=0.03, respectively). Conclusion: Patients with severe COVID-19 were investigated and it was concluded that remdesivir produced no improvement in the remdesivir group compared to the standard group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Blastocystis sp., located in the large intestine, is one of the most common zoonotic parasites. Risk factors affect its prevalence and pathogenicity, and it causes gastrointestinal disorders. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the Blastocystis sp. prevalence and its relationship with gastrointestinal disorders, in patients referred to laboratories, and provide some prevention strategies. Methods: In this descriptive-analytical study, 1,000 stool specimens were collected from patients referred to Ilam, Iran laboratories from 2018-2019. Wet mount method was conducted on samples, and suspected specimens were confirmed using trichrome staining. The demographic and clinical information was recorded in a questionnaire. Finally, the results were analyzed using the SPSS. Results: Blastocystis infection was detected in 81 out of 1,000 patients (8.1%) including 61 (75.3%) males and 20 (24.7%) females. and illiterate people were more at risk. The prevalence in rural was more than urban areas, and it was more in the age group of 31-50 year. Conclusion: There was a significant relationship between Blastocystis sp. and risk factors (age, sex, level of education, and residence) and clinical symptoms (stomach ache and nausea) (P<0.05), but interestingly there was no significant relationship between bloating and diarrhea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Synthesis of a new class of 2-[1-({[2,2,2-trifluoro-1-(arylamino)ethylidene]amino}methyl)cyclohexyl]acetic acids and 2,2,2-trifluoro-N-({1-[2-oxo-2-(arylamino)ethyl]cyclohexyl}methyl)acetamides are described by one-pot reaction of gabapentin and trifluoroacetimidoyl chlorides in the presence and absence of titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2-NPs) as a catalyst and sodium hydride as a base under an N2 atmosphere. Subsequently, a series of potentially biologically active of 2-[1({[(dialkoxyphosphoryl)(phenyl)methyl]amino}methyl)cyclohexyl] acetic acid derivatives were synthesized via reaction of gabapentin, benzaldehyde imino derivatives and trialkyl phosphites in the presence of I2/CH3COOH as catalyst. The structures of products are supported by FT-IR, ¹HNMR, 13C-NMR, 19F-NMR spectral and X-Ray crystallography data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The VHH displaying phage fabricated for VEGF detection. • The preparation and operation simplified by labeling steps elimination. • The results revealed excellent specificity and reliability of proposed immunosensor. • Analysis of results showed valuable LOD, LOQ and wide linear range. Herein the pioneering label-free electrochemistry-based immunosensor with exceptional sensitivity for the rapid and efficient detection of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) was precisely designed based on the phage display technique. The specific variable domain of a heavy-chain antibody (VHH)-displaying phage against VEGF 8–109 was successfully immobilized on Au nanoparticles deposited gold electrode modified by 3-mercapto propionic acid and 11-mercaptoundecanoic acid and then, carbodiimide coupling reaction using N-hydroxysuccinimide and N-(3-dimethylaminopropyl)-N′-ethylcarbodiimide hydrochloride. Electrochemical characterizations of the proposed immunosensor were performed by PM-FT-IRRAS, scanning electron microscopy, cyclic voltammetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy techniques. Electrochemical measurements were performed using differential pulse voltammetry in phosphate buffer containing [Fe(CN) 6 ]3–/4– ions as a probe, where the decline in the peak current value was related to a concentration of the antigen cast on the surface of the immunosensor. Under the optimum conditions (pH 7.4, interval time 20 s, and step potential 0.1 V), a linear range of response for the detection of VEGF 8–109 by immunosensor was 0.03–10,000 pg/mL (in log concentration), with a limit of detection of 11 fg/mL. The specificity of the immunosensor was also investigated against some typical blood growth factors. The novel immunosensor was applied to evaluate VEGF levels in human serum specimens clinically. The recommended immunosensor was uncomplicated, reasonably priced, and showed adequate accuracy and specificity, which could be applied in the early diagnosis of tumors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Toxoplasma gondii is an intracellular protozoan parasite responsible for systemic disease in a wide range of warm-blooded animals. The current study is aimed at evaluating the prevalence of Toxoplasma infection in dogs, using serological and molecular methods in rural areas in Kazeroun Township, Fars province, southern Iran. Methods. Blood samples were obtained from 60 clinically healthy dogs with an age range of 1 to 7 years in three rural areas of Fars province, southern Iran. Sera and buffy coats were used to assess the T. gondii infection using both modified agglutination test (MAT) and real-time PCR. Results. Antibodies against T. gondii were detected in 5 out of 60 (8.3%) dogs by the MAT method, and T. gondii DNA was detected in 17 out of 60 (28.3%) studied animals. There was no significant association between sex and seropositivity to Toxoplasma (p > 0.05). Fair agreement (kappa = 0.27) was seen between molecular and serological findings where three dogs with positive serological results had a positive molecular test. Conclusion. Findings of the present study show a relatively high prevalence of T. gondii infection in dogs in rural areas in Fars province, southern Iran. Finding the parasite genotype in dogs deserves further study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Deficiency of the proteins involved in oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) can lead to mitochondrial dysfunction. Polyribonucleotide nucleotidyltransferase 1 (PNPT1) is one of the genes involved in the OXPHOS and encodes the mitochondrial polynucleotide phosphorylase (PNPase) which is implicated in RNA-processing exoribonuclease activity. Herein, we report a 34-month-old boy who presented with global developmental delay, muscular hypotonia, hearing impairment, and movement disorders including chorea and dystonia. Mitochondrial genome sequencing and whole-exome sequencing (WES) were performed and a variant in PNPT1:c.1453A>G; p. (Met485Val) was identified. A number of patient's neurologic problems had been already reported in previous studies, however, lower limbs spasticity and bulbar dysfunction were novel phenotypic findings. In addition, delayed myelination during infancy, progressive basal ganglia atrophy, and brain stem abnormal signals including transverse pontine fibers and superior colliculus involvement were also novel neuroimaging findings in this case. Different crystallographic modeling and stereochemical analysis of the c.1453A>G; p. (Met485Val) variant showed this variant affects the active site of the protein and disrupts the normal protein function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this study is the futurology of big data management in public libraries affiliated with the Iran Public Libraries Foundation in the 21st century. It has also presented a strategic model. Research Method: This is a futurology study using a mixed-method that includes the Delphi technique in three rounds and the Survey method. The statistical population of the Delphi panel consists of 20 managers and experts of information science and information technology, employed in the Iran Public Libraries Foundation. Based on the Delphi Panel Consensus Questionnaire, 77 experts in provincial centers were selected based on Morgan's table. They were asked about the priorities of big data usage and their certainty and uncertainty by comparing the current and future situations. Then, the optimal strategic model is proposed using confirmatory factor analysis. 30 questionnaire items were confirmed in terms of two relative content validity coefficients (CVR) and content validity index (CVI) and the reliability of the questionnaire was calculated based on Cronbach's alpha coefficient of 86%. Findings: Currently, the Iran Public Libraries Foundation uses few amounts of big data. Using big data enables quick access to updated data and providing and producing data in different formats and from different sources. The necessities of using big data according to the experts' views are providing data analysis tools, information integration infrastructures, and connecting public libraries, providing the costs associated with powerful servers and equipment, and updating the knowledge and skills of librarians. Originality: This study uses futurology to examine the big data in public libraries and present a strategic model for big data management in foundation public libraries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Leishmania infantum is the most common cause of visceral leishmaniasis (VL) in Iran, where mainly the patients are children under the age of 5 years. Timely, less invasive, and accurate diagnosis and proper treatment of the disease are necessary. This retrospective study aimed to search for a less invasive but robust algorithm on VL diagnostic tests in children. Four hundred and fifteen patients with clinical suspicion of VL, 50 healthy children from VL endemic areas, 46 healthy individuals from non-endemic VL areas, and 47 non-VL diseases were tested using three diagnostic tests: indirect immunofluorescent antibody test (IFAT), rK39-rapid diagnostic test (rK39-RDT), and quantitative PCR (qPCR). One hundred and two suspected VL cases were positive in at least one test and were cured after receiving appropriate treatment. Of these 102 VL patients, 94 were positive in qPCR, 84 in IFAT, and 79 in rK39-RDT. None of the tests detected all the patients, but overall, qPCR is capable of detecting more VL patients than serological tests, i.e., 92.2%, compared to IFAT, 82.4%, and rK39, 77.5%. There was only a significant difference between the sensitivity of qPCR and rK39-RDT (p = 0.024). The specificity was 100% for qPCR and IFAT (≥128) and 98.6% for rK39-RDT. qPCR alone is capable of detecting most of the VL-suspected children. Serological tests like IFAT and rk39-RDT are recommended to increase the overall sensitivity of detection in patients with a negative molecular test. Combining qPCR with a serological test (IFAT or rK39-RDT) can help diagnose 98% of VL. In laboratories without molecular facilities, we recommend testing with the combination of rK39-RDT and IFAT yielding a combined sensitivity of 93.1% equivalent to that of qPCR in our study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Because of the critical role of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in angiogenesis and its significantly increased serum levels in early stages of cancer, VEGF is considered an important prognostic biomarker in different cancers. Herein, the amplification power of PCR combined with phage displaying anti-VEGF VHH, a sensitive real-time immunoassay, was precisely designed based on phage display-mediated immuno-PCR (PD-IPCR) for the detection of VEGF. This system benefits from strong and specific binding of antigen and antibody in a sandwich immunosorbent assay platform using avastin (anti-VEGF monoclonal antibody) as the capture antibody. The anti-VEGF phage particles were used as both anti-VEGF agent and DNA template in the PD-IPCR. Anti-VEGF phage ELISA showed a linear range of 3–250 ng/ml and a limit of detection (LOD) of 1.1 ng/ml. Using the PD-IPCR method, the linear range of VEGF detection was found to be 0.06–700 ng/ml, with a detection limit of 3 pg/ml. The recovery rate in serum ranged from 83% to 99%, with a relative standard deviation of 1.2–4.9%. These values indicate that the method has good sensitivity for use in clinical analysis. The proposed method was successfully applied to the clinical determination of VEGF in human serum samples, and the results showed excellent correlation with conventional ELISA (R2 = 0.995). The novel immunoassay provides a specific and sensitive immunoassay protocol for VEGF detection at very low levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Health-related studies have been recently at the heart attention of the media. Social media, such as Twitter, has become a valuable online tool to describe the early detection of various adverse drug reactions (ADRs). Different medications have adverse effects on various cells and tissues, sometimes more than one cell population would be adversely affected. These types of side effect are occasionally associated with the direct or indirect influence of prescribed drugs but do not have general unfavorable mutagenic consequences on patients. This study aimed to demonstrate a quick and accurate method to collect and classify information based on the distribution of approved data on Twitter. Materials and Methods: In this classification method, we selected "ask a patient" dataset and combination of Twitter "Ask a Patient" datasets that comprised of 6,623, 26,934, and 11,623 reviews. We used deep learning methods with the word2vec to classify ADR comments posted by the users and present an architecture by HAN, FastText, and CNN. Results: Natural language processing (NLP) deep learning is able to address more advanced peculiarity in learning information compared to other types of machine learning. Moreover, the current study highlighted the advantage of incorporating various semantic features, including topics and concepts. Conclusion: Our approach predicts drug safety with the accuracy of 93% (the combination of Twitter and "Ask a Patient" datasets) in a binary manner. Despite the apparent benefit of various conventional classifiers, deep learningbased text classification methods seem to be precise and influential tools to detect ADR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It has been documented that the genotypic traits in symptomatic and asymptomatic cases of visceral leishmaniasis (VL) may be different. The current study aimed to find out and compare the genotype and intraspecies diversity of Leishmania Internal Transcribed Spacer 1 (ITS1) from asymptomatic and symptomatic VL cases in southern Iran. Methods. Buffy coat samples from seven VL patients, with clinical signs and symptoms, and seven asymptomatic VL cases, were evaluated in this study. Samples of asymptomatic individuals were obtained from children living in a VL endemic area in southern Iran, while the samples of symptomatic subjects were obtained from patients admitted to hospitals with a diagnosis of VL. DNA was extracted from the buffy coats of the samples and PCR-amplified, targeting the ITS1of Leishmania. The PCR products were sequenced, and the consensus sequences were assembled and multiple-aligned with a set of Leishmania strains retrieved from the GenBank, using Clustal W. The phylogenetic tree was rooted, using MEGAX software, and the diversities based on haplotype and nucleotides, as well as the number of polymorphic sites, were measured using DnaSP v5.0 software. The results of ITS1 sequencing in 5 out of 7 asymptomatic VL cases showed 99.25% to 100% similarity with the Leishmania infantum ITS1 sequence (accessed number: MN648746), and one isolate was considered as just Leishmania sp. In one sample, 99.75% similarity was seen with the ITS1 sequence of Crithidia fasciculata. Of the symptomatic VL patients, the PCR product revealed a 340 bp band corresponding to L. infantum in all of the samples. By analyzing the ITS1 sequences, all seven sequences formed a clade somewhat different from other Leishmania species and considered as Leishmania sp. Haplotype and nucleotide diversity were much more prevalent in symptomatic cases where six haplotypes were seen in the ITS1 of Leishmania from symptomatic patients and only two haplotypes were observed in the samples from asymptomatic cases. The findings of the current study showed that the Leishmania ITS1 from symptomatic VL and asymptomatic cases has significant genetic differences. Besides, infection with Crithidia fasciculata was reported, for the first time, in an asymptomatic case, which deserves further study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fatigue is one of the main and serious problems that affects haemodialysis patients' quality of life. It should be actively evaluated and, in this process, cooperation between the patient, their family, and healthcare staff is needed to examine fatigue and improve the quality of healthcare and the patient's life. The aim of the present research was to investigate haemodialysis patients' experiences of fatigue. In this qualitative phenomenological study, 12 participants were selected from haemodialysis patients in two health centres in Iran through purposeful sampling. Data were collected through semi-structured in-depth interviews and the collected data were analysed using Colaizzi's method. Two main themes, the nature of fatigue and the perception of fatigue, were found. In addition, the results revealed six secondary themes: physical problems, psychosocial problems, behavioural problems, limitations, need for support, and burnout. The results help to clarify the concept and nature of fatigue for this group of haemodialysis patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present an analytic theory for Smith–Purcell device in which a cylindrical metal–dielectric grating was derived by an annular electron beam propagating along the grating axis. A dispersion relation is obtained for azimuthally symmetric modes. Also, the first-order and second-order growth rates of the modes which are in phase with the beam are compared. It is shown that the second-order growth rate gives a more accurate description of beam–wave interaction for beams with larger thicknesses, as well as grating slots, with smaller depths and greater lengths. The start current for BWO operation of the SP-FEL is presented too. The importance of the minimum value of start current is that above it, the SP-FEL will operate as an oscillator, even in the absence of external feedback. In this case, the group velocity of the synchronous evanescent wave is negative, while the electron beam travels in the forward direction. It is shown in this paper that the dielectric and grating parameters affect the value of start current. So, by changing these parameters, the minimum value for the start current can be obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the increase in the number of cancer patients, because of environmental parameters, high stress, low immunity, etc., there is an urgent need to develop cost-effective sensors for early targeted detection of cancerous cells with adequate selectivity and efficiency. Early disease diagnosis is important, as it is necessary to start treatments before disease progression. On the other hand, we need new, more efficient cancer treatment approaches with minimized side effects, more biocompatibility, and easy disposal. Nanobiotechnology is a field that can assist in developing new diagnostic and treatment approaches, specifically in fatal cancers. Herein, a study on the different applications of nanofibers in cancer detection as well as its treatment has been done. Here, a very brief survey on the main structure of biosensors and their different categories has been conducted and will precede the discussion of the study to serve as a reference and guide the reader's understanding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An analysis of Smith–Purcell (SP) radiation is presented for a cylindrical grating filled with dielectrics and an annular electron beam propagating along the grating axis. The dispersion relations are obtained for the azimuthally symmetric modes when the transverse perturbation of the electron beam is included, and it is compared with the case when the beam motion is restricted in the z-direction. It is shown that the growth rate changes by the transverse perturbation. The effects of the grating parameter and dielectric constant on the growth rate up to second-order are found. The best parameters of the grating to maximize the growth rate of these modes are also obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Kinesin-related gene diversity among strains and species of Leishmania may impact the sensitivity and specificity of serodiagnostic tests for visceral leishmaniasis (VL). Methods: In this study, we report on the recombinant expression of this novel Iranian Leishmania infantum (MCAN14/47) homologue of rK39 (Li-rK39), in L. tarentolae. The diagnostic potential of the Li-rK39 antigen was evaluated in an ELISA, using sera from 100 VL patients, 190 healthy endemic controls, 46 non-endemic healthy controls and 47 patients with other infections. Results: The results showed a sensitivity of 96% and a specificity of 93.8%. A commercial rK39 immunochromatographic test (ICT) was 90% sensitive and 100% specific on the same cohort. Conclusions: Here, we show that the K39 gene from an Iranian L. infantum isolate is heterozygous as compared to the sequence of the Brazilian L. infantum (former L. chagasi), whose antigen is incorporated in most rK39-based immunochromatographic tests. Therefore, Li-rK39 has the potential to be used as an alternative for VL diagnosis in Iran. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The LHC measurements of the differential cross section of the Drell–Yan process is used to constrain the noncommutative space-time (NCST) phase space. A χ2 method is utilized to exclude the part of the parameters space which is not consistent with the LHC measurements. Depending on other NCST parameters, the scale can be pushed up to ΛNC > 655 GeV. The effect of other parameters is also investigated. To our knowledge, it is the first time that a detailed statistical analysis is performed to compare the NCST results with the Hadron Collider measurements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Accurate and accessible diagnosis is key for the control of visceral leishmaniasis (VL). Yet, current diagnostic tests for VL have severe limitations: they are invasive or not suitable as point of care (POC) test or their performance is suboptimal in East Africa. We analysed the antigens in the VL serodiagnostics development pipeline to identify shortcomings and to propose strategies in the development of an alternative POC test for VL in East Africa. Objectives: The objective of this study was to identify and to analyse all antigens for VL serodiagnosis that have been published before 2018 in order to identify candidates and gaps in the pipeline for a new POC test in East Africa. Methods: A systematic literature search was performed on PubMed for original research articles on Leishmania-specific antigens for antibody detection of VL in humans. From each article, the following information was extracted: the antigen name, test format and characteristics, its reported sensitivity and specificity and study cohort specifications. Results: One hundred and seven articles containing information about 96 tests based on 89 different antigens were included in this study. Eighty six of these tests, comprising 80 antigens, were evaluated in phase I and II studies only. Only 20 antigens, all of which are native, contain a carbohydrate and/or lipid moiety. Twenty-four antigens, of which 7 are non-native, are composed of antigen mixtures. Nineteen tests, comprising 18 antigens, have been evaluated on East African specimens, of which only 2 (rK28 based immunochromatographic test and intact promastigote based indirect fluorescent antibody technique) consistently showed sensitivities above 94 and specificities above 97% in a phase III study and one in a phase II study (dot blot with SLA). Only rK28 is a non-native mixture of antigens which we consider suitable for further evaluation and implementation. Conclusions: The development pipeline for an alternative serodiagnostic test for VL is almost empty. Most antigens are not sufficiently evaluated. Non-protein antigens and antigen mixtures are being neglected. We propose to expand the evaluation of existing antigen candidates and to investigate the diagnostic potential of defined non-native carbohydrate and lipid antigens for VL serodiagnosis in East Africa. Author summary: Visceral leishmaniasis is a potentially fatal disease that affects more than 20 000 people every year. Its diagnosis is difficult since the clinical symptoms are not specific and the existing diagnostic tests are not useful in limited resource countries or they a not accurate enough in East Africa. In this review we performed a systematic search of the published literature to analyse the potential candidate antigens in the pipeline for a new antibody detection test in East Africa. We found 96 tests based on 89 antigens. Eighty six of these tests were evaluated in a study design that is insufficient (phase I and II) to make conclusions on their performance in clinical practice. We found that the candidate antigens either lacked carbohydrate or lipid structures or are based on single antigens as opposed to mixtures or are extracted from the causative parasite itself, making them expensive and prone to variations. Considering that the most widely used diagnostic test does not detect all cases of visceral leishmaniasis in East Africa, we analysed how many of the candidate antigens were tested on East African specimens: We found that only 2 tests (rK28 based immunochromatographic test and the intact promastigote based indirect fluorescent antibody technique) that were tested in a phase III study and only one (dot blot with SLA) that was tested in a phase II study performed well according to our criteria. Due to the antigen characteristics we consider only the rK28 based test as suitable for further evaluation and implementation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Accurate and accessible diagnosis is key for the control of visceral leishmaniasis (VL). Yet, current diagnostic tests for VL have severe limitations: they are invasive or not suitable as point of care (POC) test or their performance is suboptimal in East Africa. We analysed the antigens in the VL serodiagnostics development pipeline to identify shortcomings and to propose strategies in the development of an alternative POC test for VL in East Africa. Objectives: The objective of this study was to identify and to analyse all antigens for VL serodiagnosis that have been published before 2018 in order to identify candidates and gaps in the pipeline for a new POC test in East Africa. Methods: A systematic literature search was performed on PubMed for original research articles on Leishmania-specific antigens for antibody detection of VL in humans. From each article, the following information was extracted: the antigen name, test format and characteristics, its reported sensitivity and specificity and study cohort specifications. Results: One hundred and seven articles containing information about 96 tests based on 89 different antigens were included in this study. Eighty six of these tests, comprising 80 antigens, were evaluated in phase I and II studies only. Only 20 antigens, all of which are native, contain a carbohydrate and/or lipid moiety. Twenty-four antigens, of which 7 are non-native, are composed of antigen mixtures. Nineteen tests, comprising 18 antigens, have been evaluated on East African specimens, of which only 2 (rK28 based immunochromatographic test and intact promastigote based indirect fluorescent antibody technique) consistently showed sensitivities above 94 and specificities above 97% in a phase III study and one in a phase II study (dot blot with SLA). Only rK28 is a non-native mixture of antigens which we consider suitable for further evaluation and implementation. Conclusions: The development pipeline for an alternative serodiagnostic test for VL is almost empty. Most antigens are not sufficiently evaluated. Non-protein antigens and antigen mixtures are being neglected. We propose to expand the evaluation of existing antigen candidates and to investigate the diagnostic potential of defined non-native carbohydrate and lipid antigens for VL serodiagnosis in East Africa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Leukodystrophies are heterogeneous group of genetic white matter disorders with a wide range of neurologic and systemic manifestations. Defects in genes encoding aminoacyl tRNA (transfer ribonucleic acid) synthetase enzymes (aaRSs) are recently identified as the etiology of some leukodystrophies. Herein, we described two unrelated children referred to Children's Medical Center, Tehran, Iran, with developmental delay, nystagmus, seizures, psuedo-bulbar palsy and dystonia. Whole exome sequencing (WES) in both patients identified a homozygous (c.2T > C) variant in exon one of RARS gene, encoding cytoplasmic arginyl-tRNA synthetase. Our finding was confirmed by segregation analysis. In silico analyses of the c.2T > C variant showed its possible pathogenic role due to the absence of the start codon. Severe hypomyelination was the common neuroimaging finding of both cases. Spinal cord involvement was found in one of our patients which was not previously reported in studies. We, therefore, showed that RARS -related hypomyelination might affect spinal cord. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS) is a serious complication of Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART). Some studies show that intravenous calcium infusion decreases the risk of OHSS in high-risk patients. Some life-threatening complications may occur following intravenous calcium gluconate infusion, but oral calcium carbonate is a cheap and easy-to-use medication with no/minor side-effects. The present clinical trial was therefore designed to identify the role of oral calcium in OHSS prevention in high-risk patients. A total of 99 patients who had received an antagonist protocol for ovarian stimulation in their ART cycles and were at risk of OHSS were recruited for the study. The patients were allocated into two groups to receive either 500-mg BID calcium carbonate tablets or placebo tablets from their puncture date for five days. The findings showed no significant differences in oocyte and grade A, B and C embryo counts between the two groups. Moreover, the clinical pregnancy rate and the frequency of OHSS symptoms were not significantly different between the two groups. The frequencies of mild, moderate and severe OHSS were not significantly different between the two groups either. Since oral calcium is an easy-to-use method with limited side-effects, we recommend further studies to examine its effects on OHSS prevention in high-risk patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quinazoline is one of the most widespread scaffolds amongst natural and synthetic bioactive compounds. Recently the quinazoline derivatives and in particular the 4-anilinoquinazolines have attracted much attention for their anticancer properties due to their capability to stabilize the kinase activity of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). A series of fifteen previously designed and synthesized 4-anilinoquinazoline analogs (4-18) were evaluated for cytotoxic activity on two breast cancer cell lines (MCF-7 and MDA-MB-468). Ligand efficiency and binding mode studies were also done and evaluated for their potentially EGFR inhibitory effects in comparison with imatinib and erlotinib as reference drugs. Among the tested 4-anilinoquinazolines, compound 11, which contains diethoxy at phenyl ring and morpholino pendants at positions 5 and 7 of the quinazoline ring, demonstrated the most potent biological activity on both cell lines. Our new quinazoline derivatives with different substituents such as cyclic or linear ethers and flour groups may be a promising cytotoxic lead compounds for further anti-breast cancer research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Diagnosis of Visceral Leishmaniasis (VL) is still challenging. This review highlighted current status and challenges in the serological diagnosis of VL. Furthermore, the drawback of currently available serological tests and the most recent advancement in the designing and application of these assays for the diagnosis of VL are addressed. Methods: All the published literature cited within PubMed, ISI Web of Science, Google Scholar, Scopus, and IranMedex, regarding the immunodiagnosis of VL in human were sought from 2000 till Mar 2017. The search terms were "visceral leishmaniasis", or "kala-azar" subsequently combined with the search terms "diagnosis", "serodiagnosis", "human", "serological", "antigen detection" or "antibody detection". Data were extracted from literature which fulfilled our eligibility criteria. Results: Direct agglutination test (DAT) and rk39 dipstick have made a great improvement in the serological diagnosis of VL. Besides, other kinesin-related protein including K26, K28, and KE16 provided promisingly diagnostic accuracy in the diagnosis of VL. The Latex Agglutination Test for the diagnosis of VL (KAtex), with moderate sensitivity but high specificity, made a substantial contribution to the field. Moreover, a range of protein antigens has recently been detected in the urine of VL patients with encouraging diagnostic value. Conclusion: The suboptimal diagnostic accuracy of the currently available serological assays for the diagnosis of human VL necessitates further research and development in this field. Outcomes of immunodiagnostic tests based on recombinant antigens are favorable. These proteins might be the most appropriate antigens to be further evaluated and utilized for the diagnosis of human VL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Successful frozen-thawed embryo transfer (FTET) depends on multiple factors among which the woman's vaginal microbiota has recently been considered important. Using probiotic products, such as Lactovag in infertile women, the vaginal microbiome can become close to the healthy status. Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of Lactovag on normalizing vaginal microbiome, as well as its role in improving pregnancy outcomes in FTET cycles. Patients and methods: This randomized blinded clinical trial was conducted on 103 patients undergoing Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) treatment at a tertiary university-based hospital between January and August of 2019. In the experiment group, the vaginal suppository Lactavag was prescribed, whereas in the control group, patients did not receive any microbiome supplements. Then, the pregnancy rate was compared in the two groups. Results: There were no significant differences in baseline characteristics between the two study groups (p > 0.05). Positive B hCG was present in 28% (n = 26) of women, clinical pregnancy was achieved in 23.4% (n = 22) of them and fetal heart rate was detected in 21.3% (n = 20). These proportions were higher in the Lactovag group, although these differences were not significant (p > 0.05). Results showed that although transferring fetuses with grade A increased the odds of pregnancy with 1.53 (p = 0.001) folds, this ratio would be improved using Lactovag;1.68 (P value = 0.008). Conclusions: It seems that the vaginal microbiota critically interplays with women's health and reproduction. A probiotic agent such as Lactovag can be useful in normalizing this environment and improving pregnancy outcomes in infertile women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Childhood leukodystrophies are a fast-growing field of pediatric neurology practice. Epidemiologic studies on the incidence of these disorders in children show different results. This is the first report of childhood leukodystrophies incidence from Iran. The enrolled patients were recruited from the neurometabolic bioregistry system that was organized in 2010 in the Children’s Medical Center, Tehran, Iran. Herein is reported the incidence rate of leukodystrophies in those patients who were residents of 2 big popular provinces near Iran’s capital city Tehran, with an average child population of 2 988 800 children. Ninety cases of leukodystrophies from Tehran and Alborz provinces who were registered between 2010 and 2016 in the bioregistry system were enrolled in this study. The annual incidence of inherited white matter disorders was 3.01/100 000, the highest number compared with those found in other studies using similar methods throughout the world. One of the main cause of this higher incidence could be the higher number of consanguineous marriages in Iran. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heart disease is the leading cause of death worldwide and imposes a significant burden on healthcare systems globally. A major hurdle to the development of more effective therapeutics is the reliance on animal models that fail to faithfully recapitulate human pathophysiology. The predictivity of in vitro models that lack the complexity of in vivo tissue remain poor as well. To combat these issues, researchers are developing organ-on-a-chip models of the heart that leverage the use of human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes in combination with novel platforms engineered to better recapitulate tissue- and organ-level physiology. The integration of novel biosensors into these platforms is also a critical step in the development of these models, as they allow for increased throughput, real-time and longitudinal phenotypic assessment, and improved efficiency during preclinical disease modeling and drug screening studies. These platforms hold great promise for both improving our understanding of heart disease as well as for screening potential therapeutics based on clinically relevant endpoints with better predictivity of clinical outcomes. In this review, we describe state-of-the-art heart-on-a-chip platforms, the integration of novel biosensors into these models for real-time and continual monitoring of tissue-level physiology, as well as their use for modeling heart disease and drug screening applications. We also discuss future perspectives and further advances required to enable clinical trials-on-a-chip and next-generation precision medicine platforms. • Review of recent advances in the design of heart-on-a-chip platforms. • Review of novel biosensors integrated into heart-on-a-chip devices. • Review of disease modeling and phenotypic drug screening in heart-on-a-chip platforms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rhabdomyolysis is a common condition with potentially devastating complications, and only few therapeutic options are available for the treatment of acute Rhabdomyolysis. In this case, a 56-year-old male who had been drinking alcohol, presented to the emergency department for evaluation of slurred speech, ataxic gait, mood instability, and cognitive disorder. On admission, his creatine kinase (CK) level was 2882 U/L. Despite aggressive fluid repletion, his CK level continued to increase, peaking at 11350 U/L. On administration and after the fluid transfusion with isotonic saline, his CK levels and clinical symptoms improved dramatically. We report this case as it is a rare condition of rhabdomyolysis due to alcohol, with the intent to highlight its clinical features and paraclinical finding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is one of the leading causes of death throughout the world. Usual methods for detecting AMI are expensive, time-consuming and using blood samples as biological samples. Therefore, creating an ultra-fast, sensitive and non-invasive diagnostic test is necessary. Herein, a novel ultra-sensitive, fluorescent, plasmon-exciton coupling hybrid of a gold nanoparticle-quantum dot (PQ)-based aptamer nanobiosensor is presented for the detection of human cardiac troponin I (cTnI), the golden biomarker of AMI, and a preclinical test is performed within saliva. The binding of the cTnI protein to aptamer leads to a fluorescence enhancement of the plexcitonic hybrid system. The response range of this nanobiosensor is 0.4-2500 fM and the limit of detection is 0.3 fM. It seems that this novel design of nanobiosensor in the form of the PQ plexcitonic hybrid system can presents new opportunities for nanobiosensor progress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An efficient and straightforward method has been developed for the preparation of triazolo-fused benzazepines by a facile, one-pot Ugi multi-component reaction/click reaction. In this strategy, the Ugi-reaction products were coupled by a click reaction, thus integrating the triazole fragment into the benzazepine structure using an intramolecular C-H arylation. The corresponding products were obtained in good yields without unfavourable by-products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Infertility is a health problem which affects about 10-20% of married couples. Male factor infertility is involved approximately 50% of infertile couples. Most of male infertility is regarding to deletions in the male-specific region of the Y chromosome. Objective: In this study, the occurrence of deletions in the AZF region and association between infertility and paternal age were investigated in Iranian men population. Materials and Methods: To assess the occurrence of Y chromosomal microdeletions and partial deletions of the AZF region, 100 infertile men and 100 controls with normal spermatogenesis were analyzed. AZFa, AZFb, AZFc and partial deletions within the AZFc region were analyzed using multiplex PCR method. Finally, the association between paternal age and male infertility was evaluated. Results: No AZFa, AZFb or AZFc deletions were found in the control group. Seven infertile men had deletions as the following: one AZFb, five AZFc, and one AZFab. Partial deletions of AZFc (gr/gr) in 9 of the 100 infertile men (9/100, 9%) and 1 partial AZFc deletions (gr/gr) in the control group (1/100, 1%) were observed. In addition, five b2/b3 deletions in five azoospermic subjects (5/100, 5%) and 2 partial AZFc deletions (b2/b3) in the control group (2/100, 2%) were identified. Moreover, the risk of male infertility was influenced by the paternal age. Conclusion: The results of this study suggested that the frequency of Y chromosome AZF microdeletions increased in subjects with severe spermatogenic failure and gr/gr deletion associated with spermatogenic failure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To determine usage of polytetrafluoroethylene, Gore-Tex, as a stent in patients with congenital cervicovaginal agenesis. Design: Follow-up study. Setting: Tertiary center referral hospital. Patients: Eight patients with Mullerian agenesis who had congenital cervical agenesis, associated with partial or complete vaginal aplasia. Interventions: Laparoscopic uterovaginal anastomosis with placement of a polytetrafluoroethylene stent for reconstruction of cervical agenesis. In cases associated with vaginal agenesis, modified McIndoe vaginoplasty was done concomitantly. Measurements and main results: Eight patients with cervical agenesis who had partial and complete vaginal aplasia underwent vaginoplasty. Mean (SD) follow-up after surgery (3 years old). All patients except three of them, (62.5 %) experienced relief of abdominal pain and regular menstruation. Due to ascending infection three of them (37.5 %) needed reoperation. So, they underwent laparotomy. Two of these three patients had total abdominal hysterectomy and one case tolerated resection of right obstructed side of didelphys uterus, then she became pregnant spontaneously. Four out of these eight cases were married and the others were single. One out of our married patients conceived three times. Her first pregnancy was aborted. She delivered two alive babies after inserting transabdominal Shirodkar suture in her other pregnancies. Conclusion: Uterovaginal anastomosis assisted laparoscopy with polytetrafluoroethylene (Gore-Tex) is effective and hopeful to relieve patients' symptoms, menstruation regularity, and saving fertility. If ascending infection threatening health happens, hysterectomy will be recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

UMP2 calculations with aug-cc-pVDZ basis set were used to analyse intermolecular interactions in R3C···XCN···LiCN and R3C···LiCN···XCN triads (R = H, CH3; X = Cl, Br) which are connected via lithium bond and halogen bond. To understand the properties of the systems better, the corresponding dyads are also studied. Molecular geometries and binding energies of dyads, and triads are investigated at the UMP2/aug-cc-pVDZ computational level. Particular attention is paid to parameters such as cooperative energies, and many-body interaction energies. All studied complexes, with the simultaneous presence of a lithium bond and a halogen bond, show cooperativity with energy values ranging between −1.20 and −7.71 kJ mol−1. A linear correlation was found between the interaction energies and magnitude of the product of most positive and negative electrostatic potentials (VS,maxVS,min). The electronic properties of the complexes are analysed using parameters derived from the atoms in molecules (AIM) methodology. According to energy decomposition analysis, it is revealed that the electrostatic interactions are the major source of the attraction in the title complexes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Low-intensity BLA electrical stimulation by itself induces reward responses. • High-intensity BLA electrical stimulation suppresses morphine-induced CPP. • BLA blockade with lidocaine suppresses morphine-induced CPP. In the present study, to evaluate the role of the basolateral amygdala (BLA) in morphine addiction, the BLA was stimulated electrically, or inactivated temporarily using lidocaine. The electrical stimulation (ES) was delivered to BLA with low or high intensities (LI or HI: 25 or 150 µA, respectively), and five minutes before morphine administration with effective or ineffective doses, lidocaine was microinjected into the BLA. Using a 5-day conditioned place preference (CPP) paradigm, the dependence on morphine was evaluated. The results showed that LI-ES of BLA induced CPP in both the acquisition and expression phases, in the control and the ineffective dose of morphine groups. HI-ES had no effect on CPP acquisition but induced aversion in the expression, with both effective and ineffective doses of morphine. Inactivation of BLA using lidocaine, inhibited morphine-induced CPP in both acquisition and expression phases. The results of the present study indicate the prominent role of BLA in morphine addiction and dependence. Considering the contradictory results of different intensities of ES, it can be inferred that there are different neural circuits in this area of the brain, in relation to the reward responses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

UMP2 calculations with aug-cc-pVDZ basis set were used to analyze intermolecular interactions in RC···HY···LiY and RC···LiY···HY triads (R=H, CH; Y=CN, NC), which are connected via lithium and hydrogen bonds. To better understand the properties of these systems, the corresponding dyads were also studied. Molecular geometries and binding energies of dyads, and triads were investigated at the UMP2/aug-cc-pVDZ computational level. Particular attention was paid to parameters such as cooperative energies, and many-body interaction energies. All studied complexes, with the simultaneous presence of a lithium bond and a hydrogen bond, showed cooperativity with energy values ranging between −1.71 and −9.03 kJ mol. The electronic properties of the complexes were analyzed using parameters derived from atoms in molecules (AIM) methodology. Energy decomposition analysis revealed that the electrostatic interactions are the major source of the attraction in the title complexes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: We study acoustic vortex in media with screw dislocation using the Katanaev–Volovich theory of defects. It is shown that the screw dislocation affects the beamʼs orbital angular momentum and changes the acoustic vortex strength. This change is a manifestation of topological Dirac phase and is robust against fluctuations in the system. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The cause of neural tube defects (NTDs) is multifactorial and in this case folic acid has an important role. Since the neural tube is closed during 21-28 days of pregnancy, most of women are not informed about their pregnancy at this time, and as a result the golden time of folic acid consumption is missed. The aim of this study was evaluating the performance of pregnant women attending to Tehran Women's Hospital in regard to folic acid intake during pre-conceptional period between 2011 and 2012. This cross-sectional study was conducted in 370 pregnant women attending the prenatal clinic of a hospital affiliate to Tehran University of Medical Sciences between 2011 and 2012. Data were collected through interview using a questionnaire. Although 70% of the pregnancies were planned, but 70.5% of pregnant women had not taken folic acid before conception or in necessary time. There was found a significant relationship between level of education, history of abnormalities in children and the number of abortions and taking folic acid before pregnancy (P=0.005, P=0.000 and P=0.000, respectively). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The scope of this research limited to papers between 2016 and 2020 years. • Breast imaging, segmentation, feature extraction, and tumor classification are investigated. • A summary of each category is presented at the end of each subsection. • The main issues and gaps in the existing approaches are discussed. • Available software and datasets are introduced. The breast cancer as the most life-threatening disease among the woman has emerged in the worldwide. It is supposed that the early testing and treatment for breast cancer detection would be avoided the surgeries and increase the survival rate. A variety of research studies have motivated to improve the diagnostic methods for early diagnosis of breast cancer. This study investigates the automatic and semi-automatic image-based approaches for breast cancer diagnosis. The scope of this research has limited to the images based diagnosis application journal that are published between 2016 and 2020 years. The principles and associated risk factors for diagnosis the breast cancer and existing imaging techniques are presented. The steps of diagnosis including preprocessing, segmentation, extracting tumor features, and tumor classification are investigated. The publicly available datasets for breast imaging are briefly introduced as well. The application issues, challenges of breast imaging technologies and future directions are discussed. Based on the detailed study, most proposed methods use one type of imaging modalities, however, the doctor need to investigate the multiple imaging techniques to accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. Moreover, handling the multiple imaging require the processing of big data using a cluster computing framework. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]