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Abstract Gladiolus, a widely cultivated cut flower known for its aesthetically pleasing multicoloured spikes, has earned significant commercial popularity. A comprehensive understanding of the rhizosphere bacterial community associated with gladiolus is imperative for revealing its potential benefits. Molecular characterization is considered an effective method to gain insights into the structural and functional aspects of microbial populations. The soil characteristics and bacterial communities in the rhizosphere are typically influenced by quorum sensing (QS) and quorum quenching (QQ) mechanisms. This study aims to explore the niceties and diversity of rhizospheric bacterial populations linked with gladiolus corms, with a specific focus on understanding the dynamics of QS and QQ mechanisms in their complex interactions. The isolation of bacterial strains was achieved through the serial dilution method on nutrient agar (NA) media. The identification of the isolates was accomplished by amplifying 16 S rRNA gene sequences via polymerase chain reaction (PCR) via the use of universal primers. Sequence analysis was conducted via BLAST on the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) database. The characteristics of the isolated bacteria were elucidated via biosensors. This study identified three QS strains and five QQ strains. A consortium of quenchers was formulated utilizing five strains that demonstrated efficacy in mitigating the impact of disease on gladiolus and fostering growth. Among the three treatments—Scale, Descale, and Descale and Cut Half (DSC)—the DSC treatment emerged as the most effective. This treatment exhibited a broader range of variation in biological parameters over time, aligning with prevailing trends in the local market.

As the COVID-19 pandemic began spreading worldwide in late 2019 and early 2020, many vaccine candidates were developed to combat the disease. However, new COVID-19 variants such as Omicron and Delta continue to emerge globally despite advancements in vaccine technology, leaving certain countries and variants more vulnerable than others to future outbreaks of these variants. This research aims to analyze the susceptibility of different countries to a COVID-19 outbreak, present the first visualization of the spread of COVID-19, and predict which countries are at greater risk for future outbreaks of new variants based on various factors. We created interactive maps to understand the pandemic’s spread and identify high-risk countries based on their vaccination percentages. Then we employed binary classification, K-nearest neighbors (KNN), and neural network machine learning models to predict each country’s risk factor. The risk factor determines whether a country is safe from a new COVID-19 variant based on vaccine percentage and government stringency. The neural network achieved the highest accuracy, classifying countries as high risk or low risk with 94% accuracy. Inspired by the Albert Barabasi model, we graphed connections between countries based on vaccination percentages. These graphs illustrate the correlation between the two countries and better demonstrate how their vaccination rates relate to the probability of a new COVID-19 outbreak.

Background: Preeclampsia (PE) is a serious pregnancy condition with a complex etiology involving both environmental and genetic factors. This study investigated the association between polymorphisms in the microRNA (miRNA) biogenesis genes DICER (rs3742330) and RAN (rs14035) and the risk of PE among Jordanian women. Methods: A total of 224 pregnant Jordanian women were recruited. Genotypes of rs3742330 and rs14035 were determined using polymerase chain reaction techniques. This was a cross-sectional case–control study conducted in Jordan. Genotype and allele frequencies were compared using Chi-square tests, and hematological parameters were compared using t-tests. Results: The G allele and AG/GG genotypes of rs3742330 were more frequent in the PE group than controls (P < 0.05). However, no association was found between rs14035 and PE. Higher body mass index (BMI) was associated with increased PE risk (P < 0.001). Conclusion: The DICER rs3742330 polymorphism and increased BMI were associated with PE in Jordanian pregnant women. This suggests that genetic variations in miRNA biogenesis pathways may contribute to the development of PE.

Abstract Microalgae like Chlamydomonas are beneficial organisms employed as biological stimulants to improve plants’ growth, fruit quality, and stress tolerance. In the current study, the effects of Chlamydomonas sp. foliar spraying (0, 20, and 40 ml L−1) were assayed on Camarosa strawberry plants under salinity stress (0, 40, and 80 mM NaCl). The results showed that the foliar application of Chlamydomonas extract influenced strawberry’s morphological, physiological, and biochemical characteristics under salinity stress. Foliar treatment of Chlamydomonas extract with and without salinity stress increased the leaf number and leaf area, the leaf relative water content, and photosynthetic pigments content. Moreover, the foliar application of Chlamydomonas extract decreased lipid peroxidation and hydrogen peroxide content and, on the other hand, enhanced the antioxidant enzymes activity (superoxide dismutase, guaiacol peroxidase, and peroxidase), phenolics, flavonoids, and anthocyanins content under salinity stress. For instance, the highest total antioxidant capacity was found in the plants foliar treated with 40 ml L−1 of Chlamydomonas algae extract under 80 mM salinity stress, which increased by 102.4% compared to the controls, as well as the highest total phenolic compounds and anthocyanin’s content were 30.22, and 7.2% more than the control plants, respectively. Overall, the foliar application of Chlamydomonas algae extracts, especially at a concentration of 20 ml L−1 enhanced the strawberry’s growth, yield, and physiological traits under saline conditions. The results with more detailed evaluations will be advisable for the pioneer farmers and extension section.

Abstract The challenges of long-term graft survival and the side effects of current immunosuppressive therapies in kidney transplantation highlight the need for improved drugs with fewer adverse effects. Biomarkers play a crucial role in quickly detecting post-transplant complications, with new biomarkers showing promise for ongoing monitoring of disease and potentially reducing the need for unnecessary invasive biopsies. The chemokines such as C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 10 (CXCL10), are particularly promising protein biomarkers for acute renal rejection, with urine samples being a desirable source for biomarkers. The aim of this review is to analyze the literature on the potential role of urinary CXCL10 protein in predicting kidney graft injuries. The results of this study demonstrate that evaluating urinary CXCL10 levels is more successful in identifying post-transplant injuries compared to assessing the CXCL10/Cr ratio.

Abstract We implemented research-based learning (RBL) as an alternative to traditional frontal classroom lectures and laboratory sessions to impart knowledge on the emerging topic of microplastics in soil to students. The RBL module aimed at studying how microplastics (MPs) affect soil processes. We designed low-cost, small-scale and simple experiments for master’s students in Environmental Engineering at the Hamburg University of Technology. Students reported a clear understanding of concepts underlined by their presentation of the results and enthusiasm towards future exploration for their master’s or doctoral projects evidenced by a number of students carrying out research projects in the same field after finishing the module. The experiments were consequently published as an online learning module with the Hamburg Open Online University, to make them accessible for other students. The recent push in the education sector to include innovative teaching and learning methodologies offers new opportunities for RBL that are practical and replicable learning experiences that foster students’ research and problem-solving skills in areas of chemical, soil physics and environmental engineering fields.

Abstract Fail-safe design of devices requires robust integrity assessment procedures which are still absent for 2D materials, hence affecting transfer to applications. Here, a combined on-chip tension and cracking method, and associated data reduction scheme have been developed to determine the fracture toughness and strength of monolayer-monodomain-freestanding graphene. Myriads of specimens are generated providing statistical data. The crack arrest tests provide a definitive fracture toughness of 4.4 MPa $$\sqrt{{{{{{\rm{m}}}}}}}$$ m . Tension on-chip provides Young’s modulus of 950 GPa, fracture strain of 11%, and tensile strength up to 110 GPa, reaching a record of stored elastic energy ~6 GJ m−3 as confirmed by thermodynamics and quantized fracture mechanics. A ~ 1.4 nm crack size is often found responsible for graphene failure, connected to 5-7 pair defects. Micron-sized graphene membranes and smaller can be produced defect-free, and design rules can be based on 110 GPa strength. For larger areas, a fail-safe design should be based on a maximum 57 GPa strength.

Abstract Purpose Malignant Mesothelioma (MM) is a rare malignancy of the serosa membranes with a high mortality rate and long latent period. The relationship between a group of mineral fibers known as asbestos and mesothelioma is now well accepted in which people can be exposed to these fibers by various means during their lifetime and has been its usage has banned in many countries, such as Iran, which announced its gradual elimination from 1999 over a period of 7 years by using safe substitutes. However, the mineral particles are able to sustain itself in the environment, air, water, and soil and on the other hand, symptoms may take up to half a century to develop in exposed individuals. Also, there remains a shortage of comprehensive investigation on the effects of asbestos exposure within the familial context (household or domestic exposure) or on individuals residing in proximity to asbestos mines or factories (environmental exposure). Based on the high number of MM cases in Iran, and also our hypothesis that residuals of asbestos in the environment and petroleum products may be the etiological factor for MM, we conducted this study to evaluate the clinic epidemiological features of MM in the south of Iran its relation to possible asbestos exposure. Methods In this study, we analyzed the demographic features and occupations of confirmed cases of MM in Shiraz, southern Iran along with the follow‐up of the patients’ disease from 2008 to 2018, while also comparing the features of our patients with a control group compromising of 105 non‐MM patients. Results Among the 35 confirmed cases of MM, with an average age of 61 years, 9 (25.7%) were female, and 26 (74.3%) were male. During our assessment, 12 patients had already died, with a mean time of 11.26 months post‐diagnosis. Our findings revealed a higher prevalence of MM among housekeepers and employees of oil companies. In comparison to the control group, individuals with occupational exposure and those residing near refinery locations were at a heightened risk of developing MM. However, based on regression analysis, only occupations associated with refineries exhibited a significant correlation with MM (p = 0.028; OR: 14.602; 95% CI: 1.328–160.499). Conclusion Both occupational and para‐occupational exposure demonstrated a significant correlation with MM, whereas our regression analysis did not affirm geographical and environmental factors as contributors to MM. Despite the industry's prohibition of direct asbestos usage, the persistent existence of asbestos particles in the environment for decades, coupled with the long latency period of MM, warrants further investigation. Health authorities and policymakers should recognize this potential hazard, prompting an enhancement of early detection within at‐risk groups.

Introduction Water quality assessment is paramount for various sectors, including environmental planning, public health, and industrial operations. With the increasing importance of ensuring safe water sources, especially for drinking and irrigation purposes, modern methodologies like data mining offer valuable tools for predictive analysis and classification of water quality. Knowledge of water quality is considered one of the most important needs in planning, developing, and protecting water resources. Determining the quality of water for different uses, including irrigation and drinking in different areas of life. The use of modern data mining methods can be beneficial for predicting and classifying the quality of provider water. In the current study, the water quality of the Qizil-Uzen River was evaluated at Qara Gunei stations. In this regard, the drinking water quality index (WQI) using the chemical compounds of glass hardness, alkalinity (PH), electrical conductivity, total dissolved substances, calcium, sodium, magnesium, potassium, chlorine, carbonate, bicarbonate and sulfate in the statistical period of 21 years (2000-2020) was estimated. Water quality assessment is paramount for various sectors, including environmental planning, public health, and industrial operations. With the increasing importance of ensuring safe water sources, especially for drinking and irrigation purposes, modern methodologies like data mining offer valuable tools for predictive analysis and classification of water quality. Materials and Methods Due to the relatively large number of variables, principal component analysis and independent component analysis methods were used to reduce dimensions, and then different machine learning algorithms including decision tree, logistic regression, and multi-layer perceptron artificial neural network were used to model the water quality index. By using these methods, the number of parameters needed to calculate the quality index was reduced from 12 to 2. Reducing the dimensions of the data saves the time of sampling, monitoring the samples, and determining the quality of the water and reduces the costs required for modeling to a significant amount. The results showed that among the dimensionality reduction methods, the principal component analysis method can perform better than the independent component analysis method. In the current research, the WQI index was modeled using machine learning algorithms including decision tree, logistic regression, and artificial neural network method. The quality of water in the Qizil-Uzen Qara Gunei river station has been evaluated. Then, to estimate the numerical values of the WQI index, TH, pH, EC, TDS, Ca, Na, Mg, K, Cl, CO3, HCO3, and SO4 parameters of the mentioned station in the statistical period of 21 years (1378-1398) were used. PCA and ICA methods have been used to select different input parameters. Modeling has been done in a Python programming environment. Among the available samples, 75% are considered for training and 25% for testing. Results and Discussion In the present research, to model the water quality index in the first stage, different dimensionality reduction methods such as PCA and ICA were used to reduce the time and cost of implementation. In the second stage, machine learning methods such as decision tree, linear regression, and multilayer perceptron were used. In the method used by Tripathi and his colleagues, by using the principal component analysis method, they reduced the number of parameters needed to calculate the quality index from 28 to 9 and calculated the water quality index with the number of 9 parameters. Examining the two methods of PCA and ICA has reduced the dimensions of the problem from 12 dimensions to 2 dimensions. The results show that the PCA method can help us improve performance with little cost and high accuracy. Because of the PCA dimensions. The comparison of the results of the models was done using different numerical and graphical evaluation criteria, including R2, RMSE, and modified Wilmot coefficient as numerical criteria and Taylor diagram as graphical criteria. Because the PCA algorithm can help reduce noise in data, feature selection, and generate independent and unrelated features from data. The results show that multi-layer perceptron, decision tree, and logistic regression methods accurately perform the water quality index. In this research, for the first time, using the ICA dimension reduction algorithm, while reducing the dimensions of the problem, the water quality index is predicted with an accuracy of over 90%. Conclusion Water quality index modeling holds significant relevance in agricultural practices, where access to clean water is crucial for irrigation and crop growth. Surprisingly, only a limited number of studies have explored variable reduction methods in water quality index modeling, with none incorporating the relatively novel Independent Component Analysis (ICA) method for dimensionality reduction. Thus, the current research fills this gap by employing PCA and ICA techniques to reduce the dimensionality of large datasets in water quality index modeling. By utilizing these advanced methods, the study aims to enhance efficiency and accuracy in assessing water quality, thereby offering valuable insights for agricultural water management. Following dimensionality reduction, the dataset is then subjected to modeling using various machine learning algorithms. This approach not only optimizes computational resources but also facilitates a deeper understanding of the complex interrelationships among water quality parameters. Through this pioneering research endeavor, the efficacy of ICA alongside PCA in addressing water quality index modeling challenges is evaluated. By integrating these techniques with machine learning methodologies, the study endeavors to provide actionable intelligence for agricultural stakeholders, aiding in informed decision-making and resource allocation. Moreover, by venturing into unexplored territory with the inclusion of ICA, the research contributes to expanding the methodological toolkit available for water quality assessment. As agriculture faces increasing pressure from climate change and resource scarcity, such innovative approaches hold promise in ensuring sustainable water management practices.

The study examines how misleading sales techniques, such as deceptive point-of-sale practices, affect customers' willingness to buy things or their purchase intention in Iraq, where laws protecting consumers are weak and uncontrolled. The researchers also looked at how a customer's overall impression (attitude) of a product plays a role in this connection. The surveyed 400 shoppers at various supermarkets in Erbil, Iraq. 382 valid responses were received. A Partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) was used to analyze the data and test the study's hypothesis. The findings show that deceptive sales tactics hurt a customer's desire to buy. Additionally, a customer's perspective on a product plays a part in the link between those tactics and purchase intention. These results suggest that honest marketing practices benefit both businesses and customers by creating positive feelings towards products and ultimately increasing sales. JEL Codes: M31, M37 Received: 06/04/2024. Accepted: 05/07/2024. Published: 25/07/2024.

Background and Objective: Self-care is one of the best and most cost-effective measures to deal with diabetes that has attracted the attention of several health planners today. The current study aimed to perform a psychometric analysis of the Diabetes Self-Care Scale-I (DSCS-I) in Qazvin medical centers in Iran. Materials and Methods: The present study was methodological. The statistical population consisted of all patients in the medical centers of Qazvin city. The sample size was determined to be 256 people. After collecting the data, they were subjected to exploratory factor analysis with the principal component analysis method. Data were analyzed in SPSS22 software. Kaiser-Meyer and Bartlett's tests were used to measure the suitability of the sample and the significance of the results. Results: The mean age of the participants was 59.12±11.14 years, and the mean years of diabetes was 10.76±7.55. Based on the results of exploratory factor analysis, self-care of diabetic people was observed in four factors, namely healthy diet, physical activity, blood sugar monitoring, and foot health monitoring. The results showed that four explanatory factors of self-care could explain 95.22% of the variance of self-care in diabetic patients. Conclusion: The psychometric analysis of the DSCS-I in the Iranian population showed that this tool had very good validity and reliability. Therefore, it is necessary to use this scale to check the self-care status of diabetic patients.

Abstract CDH1 (E-cadherin) bi-allelic inactivation is the hallmark alteration of breast invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC), resulting in its discohesive phenotype. A subset of ILCs, however, lack CDH1 genetic/epigenetic inactivation, and their genetic underpinning is unknown. Through clinical targeted sequencing data reanalysis of 364 primary ILCs, we identified 25 ILCs lacking CDH1 bi-allelic genetic alterations. CDH1 promoter methylation was frequent (63%) in these cases. Targeted sequencing reanalysis revealed 3 ILCs harboring AXIN2 deleterious fusions (n = 2) or loss-of-function mutation (n = 1). Whole-genome sequencing of 3 cases lacking bi-allelic CDH1 genetic/epigenetic inactivation confirmed the AXIN2 mutation and no other cell-cell adhesion genetic alterations but revealed a new CTNND1 (p120) deleterious fusion. AXIN2 knock-out in MCF7 cells resulted in lobular-like features, including increased cellular migration and resistance to anoikis. Taken together, ILCs lacking CDH1 genetic/epigenetic alterations are driven by inactivating alterations in other cell adhesion genes (CTNND1 or AXIN2), endorsing a convergent phenotype in ILC.

Summary: Background and aim: According to increasing attention to the protective effects of saffron in liver disease and increasing prevalence of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), the present study aimed to investigate the mechanism effects of saffron consumption on treatment of NAFLD in a rat model. Materials and Methods: In this study 24 male Sprague-Dawley rats were studied for 13 weeks. Rats were divided in 4 groups, including group 1 that was fed HFHS+ 250 mg/kg S, group 2 that was fed HFHS+ 125 mg/kg S, group 3 that was fed HFHS, and group 4 that was fed chow diet. Results: Saffron consumption in HFHS+ 250 mg/kg S group and in HFHS + 150 mg/kg S group led to a significant reduction in ALT, AST, blood glucose, insulin, and significant elevation in TAC versus HFHS group. Saffron consumption in HFHS+250, 150 mg/Kg S caused a significant reduction in TG and significant elevation in HDL serum levels. The difference between HFHS+250 mg/kg S and HFHS for PPARα gene expression was significant (p=0.01). SREBP 1-c gene expression reduction among groups was significant and there was a significant difference between HFHS+250 mg/kg S and HFHS (p=0.02 and 0.05, respectively). DGAT2 gene expression was decreased significantly among groups, and HFHS+125 mg/kg S and HFHS+250 mg/kg S versus to HFHS (p=0.05). Conclusions: This study showed that consumption of Saffron could treat NAFLD in Rats at least partially through modulation in gene expression of PPARα, SREBP 1-c, and DGAT2, liver enzymes, glycemic indices and TAC.

Objective: This descriptive-correlational study aimed to predict students' coronavirus anxiety and health-oriented behaviors (observance of health protocols) based on the components of psychological capital. Methods: The statistical population included university students coming from two public universities in south of Iran, 154 of whom were recruited as the sample of the study. The data gathering procedure was done through Google forms, the links of which were shared with the participants through WhatsApp. Corona Disease Anxiety Scale (CDAS) and Luthans’s (2017) Psychological Capital Questionnaire were used as the main instruments and the collected data were analyzed by Pearson Correlation, simple, and multiple regression analysis. Results: It was found that the higher the amount of psychological capital and its components in individuals, the more health-oriented behaviors (adherence to health protocols) and the less coronavirus anxiety in students. The obtained results also showed that students’ health-oriented behaviors (wearing masks, hygienic hand disinfection, and social distancing practices) were strongly correlated with psychological capital and its components as well as their perceived coronavirus anxiety. Conclusions: According to the results of this study, it is recommended to hold training courses to promote psychological capital to increase health-oriented behaviors and reduce anxiety induced by such pandemics.

Abstract Background Opioid-related overdose deaths remain a common cause of death in many settings, and opioid maintenance treatment is evidence-based for the treatment of opioid use disorders. However, access to such treatment varies and is limited in many settings. Methods The present study examines the longitudinal effects of a regional patient choice reform which substantially increased availability to opioid maintenance treatment in one Swedish county, starting from 2014. A previous follow-up, limited in time, indicated a possible effect on mortality from this intervention, demonstrating a lower increase in overdose deaths than in counties without this reform. The present study follows overdose deaths through 2021, and compares the intervention county to the remaining parts in the country, using death certificate statistics from the national causes of death register. Results The present study does not demonstrate any significant difference in the development of overdose mortality in the county where this reform substantially expanded treatment access, compared to other counties in the country. Conclusions The study underlines the importance to maintain extensive efforts against overdose deaths over and above the treatment of opioid use disorders, such as low-threshold provision of opioid antidotes or other interventions specifically addressing overdose risk behaviors.

Abstract Gas hydrates are crystalline inclusion compounds formed by trapping gas molecules inside water cages at high pressures and low temperatures. Hydrates are promising materials for hydrogen storage, but their potential depends on understanding their mechanical properties. This work integrates density functional theory (DFT) simulations with a geometry-inspired composite material model to explore the bulk moduli of structure II hydrogen hydrates subjected to pressure loads of − 0.2 to 3 GPa, representative of the hydrogen hydrate formation conditions. Our findings reveal that structure II hydrate comprises a bi-continuous composite of small and large cages with nearly equal volume fractions. The bulk modulus increases with rising pressure but decreases with increasing composition. Notably, these results align closely with the ideal laws of mixtures, especially at low pressures and compositions, where cage interactions are minimal. This integrated DFT-laws of mixtures methodology provides a key database for fast estimation of hydrate mechanical properties without costly computations.

Abstract Background Most women with anovulatory infertility show polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), and androgen excess is known as a key factor involved in pathogenicity of PCOS. However, the mechanism of follicular developmental arrest in PCOS is not completely understood. The reproductive function of Neuropeptide Y (NPY) in the ovary during folliculogenesis was previously reported; NPY function in apoptosis and proliferation of granulosa cells (GCs) is follicular-stage dependent. The objective of this study was to investigate the role of NPY in ovarian follicular development and the pathogenesis of PCOS. Methods To simulate the PCOS phenotype using a rat model, 21-day old Sprague Dawley rats were implanted with dihydrotestosterone (DHT) capsule (83 µg/day) and euthanized after 28 days. mRNA and protein content of NPY and its receptors were assessed in GCs from DHT treated rats using RT-qPCR and Western blot, respectively. Proliferation and apoptosis of GCs was assessed using Ki67- and TUNEL assays. Finally, NPY levels were measured in human follicular fluid (FF) from matched PCOS and non-PCOS patients using ELISA. Results GCs from DHT treated rats (PCOS-GCs) contained significantly less NPY protein and Npy mRNA by 0.16- and 0.56-fold, respectively, and more NPY receptor type 2 and 5 protein by 2.21- and 3.17-fold, respectively, when compared to sham control. Addition of recombinant NPY to PCOS-GCs culture did not alter Ki67-positive but significantly decreased TUNEL-positive cells by 0.65-fold, but not to baseline levels. There was no significant difference in NPY levels in FF between PCOS and non-PCOS subjects. Conclusions These results indicate that DHT modulates expression of NPY and its receptors, NPY decreases DHT-induced GCs apoptosis. That alterations in NPY’s function might be involved in follicular developmental failure of PCOS.

Objective: To assess associations between various clinic-demographic factors and clinical outcomes among patients treated for sepsis. Methods: The retrospective study was conducted at the Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi, and comprised data of all patients aged >18 years diagnosed with sepsis from January to December 2019. Multivariable logistic regression was used to evaluate independent associations between predictors and outcomes. Data was analysed using R packages. Results: Of the 1,136 patients, 621(54.6%) were male and 515(45.3%) were female. The overall mean age was 59.05±16.91 years. Female gender (odds ratio: 1.029; 95% confidence interval: 1.03-1.64) to be an independent predictor of septic shock, while hypertension (odds ratio0.75; 95% confidence interval: 0.59-0.95) emerged as a protective factor. Chronic kidney disease (odds ratio: 1.539; 95% confidence interval: 1.14-2.07) was an independent predictor of prolonged length of stay, while older age appeared to be protective (odds ratio: 0.98; 95% confidence interval: 0.98-0.99). Mortality was associated with a significantly lower odds of Escherichia coli on culture (odds ratio: 0.26; 95% confidence interval: 0.12-0.54). Conclusion: Independent associations were found between specific patient characteristics and adverse clinical outcomes. Key Words: Sepsis, Septic shock, Mortality, Morbidity.

Abstract Objectives: to determine efficiency and safety of three misoprostol regimens for 2nd trimester pregnancy termination in individuals with two or more cesarean section scars. Methods: a cross-sectional study included 100 pregnant ladies at 13th-26th weeks gestation with previous two cesarean sections (CSs) who were scheduled for pregnancy termination using misoprostol. Patients were conveniently assigned to 100µg/3h, 200µg/3h or 400 µg/3h regimens. Primary outcome was time to abortion, secondary outcomes were side effect and complications. Results: a significant association was found between number previous CSs and longer time to abortion (p=0.01). A highly significant association was identified between earlier gestational age and longer time to abortion (p

The cholinergic hypothesis is one of the basic approaches for designing and discovering novel anti-Alzheimer drugs. Application of the pharmacophore of well-known drugs like donepezil helps us achieve new molecules. In the current project, a new series of benzamide derivatives (6a–6l) were designed and synthesized. Spectroscopic techniques (NMR, IR, MS) were utilized for characterization. Subsequently, Ellman’s protocol was carried out for acetylcholinesterase assay and the obtained results were compared to donepezil (IC50 = 0.6 ± 0.05 µM). Compound 6b which bears a chlorine atom at position meta of the phenyl ring was the most potent derivative in this series (IC50 = 0.14 ± 0.03 nM) and exhibited higher activity than donepezil. In addition, molecular docking was performed to explore the binding mode and related interactions. The in silico results demonstrated that compound 6b binds to the active site of the AChE through a hydrogen bond with Trp279. This compound could be suggested as a potential lead compound and more experimental and in vivo tests are needed to prove its eligibility as a drug candidate.

The aim of the present study was to compare the effectiveness of brain-based learning and cognitive rehabilitation interventions on the inhibition and attention shifting functions in 10-12 year-old children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. The research employed an experimental method with a pre-test-post-test design, with a control group. Participants were selected by random sampling and assigned to two experimental groups and one control group (with 15 members in each group) using the random assignment method. Data was collected using the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function (BRIEF). Brain-based learning and cognitive rehabilitation interventions were carried out in the experimental groups, while no intervention was performed in the control group. The data was analyzed using SPSS software version 26. The MANCOVA analysis for the scores of inhibition and attention shifting functions showed there was a significant difference between groups (p

Abstract Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a complex multi-factorial syndrome associated with androgen excess and anovulatory infertility. In the current study, we investigated the role of dihydrotestosterone-induced exosomal miR-379-5p release in determining the destiny of the developing follicles. Our hypothesis was that androgen regulates granulosa cell miR-379-5p content by facilitating its exosomal release in a follicular-stage dependent manner, a process which determines granulosa cell fate. Compared to human non-PCOS subjects, individuals with PCOS exhibit higher follicular fluid free testosterone levels, lower exosomal miR-379-5p content and granulosa cell proliferation. Androgenized rats exhibited lower granulosa cell miR-379-5p but higher phosphoinositide-dependent kinase-1 (PDK1; a miR-379-5p target) content and proliferation. Androgen reduced granulosa cell miR-379-5p content by increasing its exosomal release in preantral follicles, but not in antral follicles in vitro. Studies with an exosomal release inhibitor confirmed that androgen-induced exosomal miR-379-5p release decreased granulosa cell miR-379-5p content and proliferation. Ovarian overexpression of miR-379-5p suppressed granulosa cell proliferation, and basal and androgen-induced preantral follicle growth in vivo. These findings suggest that increased exosomal miR-379-5p release in granulosa cells is a proliferative response to androgenic stimulation specific for the preantral stage of follicle development and that dysregulation of this response at the antral stage is associated with follicular growth arrest, as observed in human PCOS.

Background and aims: Domestic violence against women is a problem that might cause irreparable damage to women’s health. This study aims to review the studies on the strategies regarding domestic violence against women in Iran. Methods: This study is a narrative review of published articles on strategies to prevent domestic violence against women in Iran from 2009 to 2019. Two scholars on valid databases searched. Articles were selected based on the time and setting of studies, purpose, and research structure framework. The full text of the articles and the publication language were included in the study. The quality of the articles was assessed using the "checklist of original research articles," which comprises five sections; the structure of the abstract, the title and introduction, the review method, the results, the conclusion, and the keywords. The general opinion of the reviewer was also taken into consideration. Results: 13 eligible articles were reviewed, including 11 in Persian and 2 in English. The finding of the reviews indicated the interventions implemented to reduce and prevent domestic violence against women in Iran. These interventions focused on life skills in three categories (a) Communication and Interpersonal Skills (such as resilience based on spirituality, mindfulness techniques, motivational interview, and emotionally focused couple therapy), (b) decision-making and critical thinking skills, including problem-solving, decision-making, narrative exposure therapy, and conflict resolution related to domestic violence against women), and (c) coping and self-management skills (such as anger management, marital adjustment, and self-defense). Conclusion: The effective implementation of life skills can serve as practical methods to prevent domestic violence against women.

Introduction: Remote ischemic conditioning upregulates endogenous protective pathways in response to ischemia-reperfusion injury. This study tested the hypothesis that limb remote ischemic per- conditioning (RIPerC) exerts cardioprotective effects via the renin-angiotensin system (RAS)/inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS)/apelin pathway. Methods: Renal ischemia-reperfusion injury (I/R) was induced by bilateral occlusion of the renal pedicles for 60 minutes, followed by 24 hours of reperfusion; sham-operated rats served as controls. RIPerC was induced by four cycles (5 minutes) of limb ischemia-reperfusion along with bilateral renal ischemia. The functional disturbance was evaluated by renal (BUN and creatinine) and cardiac (troponin I and lactate dehydrogenase) injury biomarkers. Results: Renal I/R injury increased renal and cardiac injury biomarkers that were reduced in the RIPerC group. Histopathological findings of the kidney and heart were also suggestive of amelioration injury-induced changes in the RIPerC group. Assessment of cardiac electrophysiology revealed that RIPerC ameliorated the decline in P wave duration without significantly affecting other cardiac electrophysiological changes. Further, renal I/R injury increased the plasma (322.40±34.01 IU/L), renal (8.27±1.10 mIU/mg of Protein), and cardiac (68.28±10.28 mIU/mg of protein) angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) activities in association with elevations in the plasma and urine nitrite (25.47±2.01 & 16.62±3.05 μmol/L) and nitrate (15.47±1.33 & 5.01±0.96 μmol/L) levels; these changes were reversed by RIPerC. Further, renal ischemia-reperfusion injury significantly (P=0.047) decreased the renal (but not cardiac) apelin mRNA expression, while renal and cardiac ACE2 (P

Objectives: The aim of this in vitro study was to assess the quantity of nickel and chromium ions released from orthodontic wires when subjected to various beverage solutions and distilled water. Materials and Methods: Orthodontic appliances composed of five brackets, one band and 0.016-inch stainless steel and nickel titanium wires were immersed in Coke, tea, coffee and distilled water. The samples were incubated at 37℃ for 1 hour, 6 hours, 24 hours, and one week. There was a total of 120 appliances divided into 24 groups (n=5 in each group). Atomic absorption spectroscopy was used to examine the amount of released ions. Two-way and one-way ANOVA followed by Tukey test were used for statistical analysis and P

BackgroundMultiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease. Ellagic acid is a natural polyphenol and affects the fate of neurons through its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. The present study aimed to investigate ellagic acid effects on disease severity, the expression of involved genes in the pathogenesis of MS, and the levels of related cytokines.MethodsThe present study was a triple-blind clinical trial. Eligible patients were randomly assigned to two groups: Ellagic acid (25 subjects) for 12 weeks, receiving 180 mg of Ellagic acid (Axenic, Australia) and the control group (25 subjects) receiving a placebo, before the main meals. Before and after the study, the data including general information, foods intake, physical activity, anthropometric data, expanded disability status scale (EDSS), general health questionnaire (GHQ) and pain rating index (PRI), fatigue severity scale (FSS) were assessed, as well as serum levels of interferon-gamma (IFNγ), interleukin-17 (IL-17), interleukin-4 (IL-4) and transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β), nitric-oxide (NO) using enzyme-linked immunoassay (ELISA) method and expression of T-box transcription factor (Tbet), GATA Binding Protein 3 (GATA3), retinoic acid-related orphan receptor-γt (RORγt) and Glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) genes were determined using Real-Time Quantitative Reverse Transcription PCR (RT-qPCR) method.FindingsEllagic acid supplementation led to a reduction in IFNγ, IL-17, NO and increased IL-4 in the ellagic acid group, however in the placebo group no such changes were observed (−24.52 ± 3.79 vs. -0.05 ± 0.02, p 0.05). Also, the Tbet and RORγt genes expression decreased, and the GATA3 gene expression in the group receiving ellagic acid compared to control group significantly increased (0.52 ± 0.29 vs. 1.51 ± 0.18, p 0.05).ConclusionEllagic acid supplementation can improve the health status of MS patients by reduction of the inflammatory cytokines and Tbet and RORγt gene expression, and increment of anti-inflammatory cytokines and GATA3 gene expression.Clinical trial registration: (https://en.irct.ir/trial/53020), IRCT20120415009472N22.

Background: This study assessed the potential cost-effectiveness of high (80–100%) vs low (21–35%) fraction of inspired oxygen (FiO2) at preventing surgical site infections (SSIs) after abdominal surgery in Nigeria, India, and South Africa. Methods: Decision-analytic models were constructed using best available evidence sourced from unbundled data of an ongoing pilot trial assessing the effectiveness of high FiO2, published literature, and a cost survey in Nigeria, India, and South Africa. Effectiveness was measured as percentage of SSIs at 30 days after surgery, a healthcare perspective was adopted, and costs were reported in US dollars ($). Results: High FiO2 may be cost-effective (cheaper and effective). In Nigeria, the average cost for high FiO2 was $216 compared with $222 for low FiO2 leading to a −$6 (95% confidence interval [CI]: −$13 to −$1) difference in costs. In India, the average cost for high FiO2 was $184 compared with $195 for low FiO2 leading to a −$11 (95% CI: −$15 to −$6) difference in costs. In South Africa, the average cost for high FiO2 was $1164 compared with $1257 for low FiO2 leading to a −$93 (95% CI: −$132 to −$65) difference in costs. The high FiO2 arm had few SSIs, 7.33% compared with 8.38% for low FiO2, leading to a −1.05 (95% CI: −1.14 to −0.90) percentage point reduction in SSIs. Conclusion: High FiO2 could be cost-effective at preventing SSIs in the three countries but further data from large clinical trials are required to confirm this.

Abstract Background and aim Previous studies have shown that Rheum ribes (R. ribes) could be effective in controlling the blood glucose levels. This study was conducted to determine the effects of R. ribes supplementation on glycemic indices and apolipoproteins in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Methods In the present randomized double-blind controlled trial, 60 type 2 diabetic patients aged 30–60 years with a body mass index (BMI) of 20–30 kg/m2 and hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) of 6–8% were enrolled. Patients were randomly assigned to receive 450 mg of aqueous R. ribes extract (AG), 450 mg of ethanolic R. ribes extract (EG), or placebo (PG) three times daily for 6 weeks. At the baseline and at the end of the study, blood glucose levels, homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) and the homeostatic model assessment of β-cell dysfunction (HOMA-B), as well as apolipoprotein A-I (ApoA1) and apolipoprotein B (ApoB) were measured. Results There was a significant decrease in the serum levels of insulin in AG and EG groups (P = 0.003 and P = 0.001, respectively), HOMA-IR (P = 0.01 and P = 0.001, respectively), HOMA-B (P = 0.002 and P = 0.001, respectively), ApoB (P = 0.006 and P = 0.03, respectively), ApoB/ApoA1 ratio (P = 0.016 and P = 0.04, respectively). However, a significant increase in ApoA1 (P = 0.08 and P = 0.05, respectively) with no significant changes in blood glucose, at the end of study compared to beginning values, were observed. None of the variables showed a significant change in PG. At the end of the study; while there were significant differences in insulin (P = 0.04), HOMA-IR (P = 0.03), HOMA-B (P = 0.01), ApoB (P = 0.02), and ApoB/ApoA1 ratio (P = 0.03) among the groups but ApoA1 had no significant change. Conclusion Consumption of R. ribes intake could have beneficial effects on insulin resistance and apolipoproteins in type 2 diabetic patients. (Registered at en.irct.ir, identification number: IRCT201410142709N31).

Pregnancy-associated anemia is a widespread condition that can have varying impacts on both the mother and the developing fetus, depending on the level of hemoglobin in the mother's blood and the stage of pregnancy at which the anemia occurs. In Iraq, 27% of all registered thalassemia cases are thalassemia minor. Pregnancy may aggravate mild undiagnosed thalassemia early in pregnancy. The objective of the study was to access the prevalence of undetected thalassemia minor in primigravida women who received prenatal care before 20 weeks and to compare the demographic and socioeconomic characteristic features between women with iron-deficiency anemia (IDA) and those without any anemia. A total of 298 primigravida women who attended prenatal care at 20 weeks or less were recruited and their hematocrit level was assessed. Participants were segregated into two groups regarding the presence of anemia. Patients who had packed cell volume lower than 33% underwent iron study and standard Hb electrophoresis. Information about women's demographics, socioeconomic status, and family history of hereditary anemia were recorded. The participants had a mean age of 22.7 years, with an age range spanning from 16 to 43 years. 33.33% of 298 women had pathological anemia. All the participants exhibited microcytic anemia, with 26.85%, had confirmed IDA, whereas 6.71% had β thalassemia minor (BTM) phenotype. Both BTM and IDA patients frequently reported a positive family history of anemia at 80% and 68.7%, respectively, which was significantly greater than the control group at 39.9% (P = 0.001). No significant differences were seen between BTM and IDA in terms of age or socioeconomic status. Anemia due to undetected thalassemia minor was common among primigravida women. Screening for BTM carriers pregnant can help in monitoring their status, assessing the fetus's risk of developing thalassemia, and making a diagnosis in communities with high rates of consanguineous marriages, such as Iraq.

Background: Anemia in pregnancy can considerably elevate the maternal mortality risk and can negatively distress the development of fetus. Object of the Current Work: To assess the association between neonatal outcomes and maternal anemia (MA) among pregnant women (PW). Subjects and Methodology: The present work is a clinical prospective one performed at Al-Elwiya Maternity Teaching Hospital in Baghdad from January 1, 2022 to June 30, 2022. Current study selected 120 term PW with anemia admitted to hospital for caesarian section. Data were collected as a questionnaire. The data were directly taken from PW. The acquired data from anemic PW were distributed as followings: Age of anemic PW, which was classified into two groups; 25–29 years and 30–35 years. The gestational age of anemic PW, which was categorized into three groups; 37th week, 38th week, and 39th week of gestation. Anemia characteristics were studied, which included hemoglobin level (Hb) and packed cell volume test (PCV), which were done by taking 5 ml blood from each PW for s. ferritin, s.iron, Hb level, and blood film in laboratory of Al-Elwiya Maternity Teaching Hospital. The Hb helped in detecting anemic PW joined this study, as Hb was

Recently, a drastic increase in medical imaging such as X-rays, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), and Computed Tomography (CT) offers essential anatomical and functional details related to different body parts for monitoring, treatment planning, detection, and classification. The use of Content-Based Medical Image Retrieval (CBMIR) technologies helps to handle massive amounts of medical images, and also encryption can be considered an effective solution to attain security in the CBMIR process. In this regard, this research develops an optimal deep transfer learning enabled secure CBMIR technique, called ODTL-SCBMIR model. The proposed ODTL-SCBMIR prototype aim is to provide image encryption techniques with retrieval procedures. To accomplish this, the presented ODTL-SCBMIR model initially employs multikey homomorphic encryption (MKHE) with an oppositional jellyfish search optimizer (OJSO) algorithm for security. Next, the image retrieval process includes a series of processes namely capsule network (CapsNet) based feature extraction, chaos game optimization (CGO) based hyperparameter optimizer, and Manhattan distance based similar measurement. The performance validation of the ODTL-SCBMIR prototype is experimented with by employing a set of medical images. The investigational results implied the enhanced performance of the ODTL-SCBMIR prototype over current approaches.

Because direct measurement of evapotranspiration is costly and time-consuming, researchers have turned to the estimation of evapotranspiration via indirect approaches. The aim of this study is to investigate the capability of kernel-based, tree-based, bagging-based data-driven, and empirical models to estimate reference evapotranspiration. For this purpose, data related to meteorological parameters such as average temperature, hours of sunshine, maximum and minimum temperature, wind speed, precipitation, and relative humidity were collected over a period of 39 years. A correlation matrix, relief algorithm, and trial and error based on the author’s own experience were used to select input scenarios. The performance of these methods was evaluated using correlation coefficient (R2), root mean square error (RMSE), scattering index (SI), Nash Sutcliffe (NS), and Wilmot indexes (WI). Based on the results, scenario 13 includes maximum temperature and monthly time index based on the relief algorithm was selected as the best scenario, also on the other hand the random tree model with R=0.99, RMSE=0.04 mm/day, and SI=0.01 was selected as the superior method. Thus, the maximum temperature was defined as the efficient meteorological parameter for the reference evapotranspiration modeling.

IntroductionThe ovarian follicle consists of the oocyte, somatic cells, and follicular fluid (FF). Proper signalling between these compartments is required for optimal folliculogenesis. The association between polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and extracellular vesicular small non-coding RNAs (snRNAs) signatures in follicular fluid (FF) and how this relates to adiposity is unknown. The purpose of this study was to determine whether FF extracellular vesicle (FFEV)-derived snRNAs are differentially expressed (DE) between PCOS and non-PCOS subjects; and if these differences are vesicle-specific and/or adiposity-dependent.MethodsFF and granulosa cells (GC) were collected from 35 patients matched by demographic and stimulation parameters. FFEVs were isolated and snRNA libraries were constructed, sequenced, and analyzed.ResultsmiRNAs were the most abundant biotype present, with specific enrichment in exosomes (EX), whereas in GCs long non-coding RNAs were the most abundant biotype. In obese PCOS vs. lean PCOS, pathway analysis revealed target genes involved in cell survival and apoptosis, leukocyte differentiation and migration, JAK/STAT, and MAPK signalling. In obese PCOS FFEVs were selectively enriched (FFEVs vs. GCs) for miRNAs targeting p53 signalling, cell survival and apoptosis, FOXO, Hippo, TNF, and MAPK signalling.DiscussionWe provide comprehensive profiling of snRNAs in FFEVs and GCs of PCOS and non-PCOS patients, highlighting the effect of adiposity on these findings. We hypothesize that the selective packaging and release of miRNAs specifically targeting anti-apoptotic genes into the FF may be an attempt by the follicle to reduce the apoptotic pressure of the GCs and stave off premature apoptosis of the follicle observed in PCOS.

This study investigates the language of career services webpages in the top seven UK and the top seven PK (Pakistani) QS-ranked universities. Career services webpages of universities address career-related issues of students and serve as a remedy to the social problem of unemployment. These platforms train their students according to the requirements of employers by strengthening them with employability skills. Therefore, this research aims to highlight the notion of ‘career’ and ‘job’ in career services webpages of the UK and PK universities. The methodology used is corpus-based critical discourse analysis and the data is analyzed with Antconc 3.5.8 version. The sample size consisting of 353473 words of PK corpus and 323234 words of UK corpus is selected by using the judgmental sampling technique and the corpus is built by usingSketch Engine. The results show the inclination of PK universities towards the ‘academic career’ of their students because whenever they talk about the career and jobs of students, they show their concern about not having third division or D grade in their academic career to get a degree.This preference of PK universities is promoting rot culture of defining capabilities of students through their degrees that needs to be addressed. Whereas, UK universities show their concern about the skills and employability of their students by providing them knowledgeable and conceptual tasks to get an ideal job. The analysis concludes that the language of both UK and PK universities put emphasis on career development and employability skills, but their approach seems to be different in making their graduates employable. The findings of this research can be beneficial in creating awareness among students and academicians regarding the outcomes of language that isused by university websites and its influence on their professional choices.

Data driven models are proposed as an alternative to hydrological methods in sediment estimation calculations. The aim of this study was to compare the performance and accuracy of hydrological and data-based methods in estimating the amount of suspended sediment. For this purpose, discharge and sediment data were collected in the period of 20 yr (2001-2011) and then the amount of suspended sediment of Bagh Kalayeh hydrometric station on Alamut River in Qazvin province was estimated. In this study hydrological methods including Smearing, FAO and Sediment Rating Curves versus data driven methods including Gene Expression Programming, Instance-Based Learning with parameter K and Linear Regression methods were used. The model performances were compared using two statistical methods of RRMSE and NS. The results showed that two techniques such as IBK model with evaluation criteria of (R = 0.94, RRMSE = 0.29 and NS = 0.24) and the GEP model with (R = 0.85, RRMSE = 0.59 and NS = 0.65) estimated suspended sediment in more accurate way than other studies methods. Thus, the superiority of data-driven methods in estimating the amount of suspended sediment in the study area was proved. Therefore, the use of data-based techniques as a competitor and alternative to hydrological methods to estimate the amount of suspended sediment in areas similar to the study area is recommended.

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is associated with hyperandrogenemia and ovarian antral follicle growth arrest. We have previously demonstrated that androgen-induced exosomal release of miR-379-5p (miR379) from preantral follicle granulosa cells increases the proliferation of target cells via phosphoinositide-dependent kinase 1 (PDK1) upregulation. Androgen also increases inflammatory M1 macrophage abundance, but reduces anti-inflammatory M2 polarization in rat antral and preovulatory follicles. However, the role of small extracellular vesicles (sEVs; also known as exosomes) secretion in determining the cellular content and function of miRNAs in exosome-receiving cells is largely unknown. Our objectives were to determine: 1) the regulatory role of granulosa cells (GC)-derived exosomal miR379 on macrophage polarization and ovarian inflammation; 2) whether miR379-induced M1 polarization regulates GC proliferation; and 3) if this regulated process is follicular stage-specific. Compared with non-PCOS subjects, PCOS subjects had a higher M1/M2 ratio, supporting the concept that PCOS is an inflammatory condition. Ovarian overexpression of miR379 increased the number of M1 macrophages and the M1/M2 ratio in preantral follicles specifically. Transfection of macrophages with a miR379 mimic reduced the cellular content of PDK1 and induced M0→M1 polarization; whereas its inhibitor polarized M0→M2. Conditioned media from macrophages transfected with miR379 mimic and follicular fluid from PCOS subjects had higher galectin-3 content, a pro-inflammatory cytokine which specifically suppresses human antral follicle GC proliferation. These results indicate that miR379 inhibits M2 macrophage polarization, a condition which suppresses GC proliferation in a follicle stage-dependent manner, as exhibited in PCOS.

Abstract Background Fragile X syndrome (FXS), the most prevalent inherited intellectual disability and one of the most common monogenic forms of autism, is caused by a loss of fragile X messenger ribonucleoprotein 1 (FMR1). We have previously shown that FMR1 represses the levels and activities of ubiquitin ligase MDM2 in young adult FMR1-deficient mice, and treatment by a MDM2 inhibitor Nutlin-3 rescues both hippocampal neurogenic and cognitive deficits in FMR1-deficient mice when analyzed shortly after the administration. However, it is unknown whether Nutlin-3 treatment can have long-lasting therapeutic effects. Methods We treated 2-month-old young adult FMR1-deficient mice with Nutlin-3 for 10 days and then assessed the persistent effect of Nutlin-3 on both cognitive functions and adult neurogenesis when mice were 6-month-old mature adults. To investigate the mechanisms underlying the persistent effects of Nutlin-3, we analyzed the proliferation and differentiation of neural stem/progenitor cells isolated from these mice and assessed the transcriptome of the hippocampal tissues of treated mice. Results We found that transient treatment with Nutlin-3 of 2-month-old young adult FMR1-deficient mice prevents the emergence of neurogenic and cognitive deficits in mature adult FXS mice at 6 months of age. We further found that the long-lasting restoration of neurogenesis and cognitive function might not be mediated by changing intrinsic properties of adult neural stem cells. Transcriptomic analysis of the hippocampal tissue demonstrated that transient Nultin-3 treatment leads to significant expression changes in genes related to the extracellular matrix, secreted factors, and cell membrane proteins in the FMR1-deficient hippocampus. Conclusions Our data indicates that transient Nutlin-3 treatment in young adults leads to long-lasting neurogenic and behavioral changes likely through modulating adult neurogenic niche that impact adult neural stem cells. Our results demonstrate that cognitive impairments in FXS may be prevented by an early intervention through Nutlin-3 treatment.

Objective(s): Acute lung injury (ALI) is a common complication of distant organ dysfunction induced by acute kidney injury (AKI). Toll-like receptors (TLRs) have a critical role in progression of AKI. The main goal of this study was to determine whether lung gene expression of TLR2 and TLR4 change by ischemic (renal bilateral ischemic-reperfusion; BIR) and uremic (bilateral nephrectomy; BNX) AKI.Materials and Methods: Forty male rats were divided into five groups. Two kidneys were removed in BNX, and renal pedicles were clamped in BIR for 45 min. The kidney and lung tissue, and blood samples were collected and saved after 24 hr in all groups. The bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells were immediately injected (1×106,IV) into the treated groups. The expression of TLR2, TLR4, TNF-α, and VEGF was checked by RT-PCR in the tissue samples. MDA level, SOD, and CAT activity were evaluated in the tissue samples.Results: Structural disturbance of ALI was detected as alveolar hemorrhage and vascular congestion after BIR and BNX. Lung TLR2 and TLR4 but not TNF-α and VEGF up-regulated in these groups. Oxidative stress stabilized after the BIR and BNX in the tissue samples. BMSCs reduce the expression of TLR2 and TLR4 and oxidative stress in the treated groups. Conclusion: Acutely gathering systemic mediators after renal ischemic or uremic injury induce ALI through overexpression of TLR2 and TLR4 and oxidative stress. Therefore, the Lung protective effect of BMSCs may be related to modulation of TLR2 and TLR4 and oxidative stress in the kidney and lung tissue.

Motivation as a catalyst for human conduct has been associated with lots of variables. However, self-efficacy and resilience as two important components of the individuals' psychological capital have not received enough scientific attention. This gets more significance considering the global COVID-19 pandemic with noticeable psychological consequences for the learners receiving online education. Hence, the current study proceeded to investigate the relationship between students' self-efficacy, resilience, and academic motivation in online education. To this aim, a convenience sample of 120 university students coming from two state universities in south of Iran participated in an online survey. The questionnaires used in the survey included the self-efficacy questionnaire, resilience questionnaire, and academic motivation questionnaire. Pearson correlation and multiple regression statistical methods were applied to analyze the obtained data. The results pointed to a positive relationship between self-efficacy and academic motivation. In addition, those with a higher degree of resilience were found to experience higher academic motivation. Moreover, the results of multiple regression test revealed that self-efficacy and resilience can significantly predict the academic motivation of the students involved in an online mode of education. The research proposes a number of recommendations for developing the learners' level of self-efficacy and resilience through enacting various pedagogical interventions. In this way, a heightened level of academic motivation would enhance EFL learners' learning rate.

Binary ZrCu nanocomposite amorphous films are synthetized by pulsed laser deposition (PLD) under vacuum (2 × 10−3 Pa) and 10 Pa He pressure, leading to fully amorphous compact and nanogranular morphologies, respectively. Then, post-thermal annealing treatments are carried out to explore thermal stability and crystallization phenomena together with the evolution of mechanical properties. Compact films exhibit larger thermal stability with partial crystallization phenomena starting at 420 °C, still to be completed at 550 °C, while nanogranular films exhibit early-stage crystallization at 300 °C and completed at 485 °C. The microstructural differences are related to a distinct evolution of mechanical properties and residual stress, with compact TFMGs showing the highest values of Young’s modulus (157 GPa), hardness (12 GPa), strain rate sensitivity (0.096), and local residual stress (+691 MPa) upon annealing at 550 °C, while nanogranular films reach the maximum values of mechanical properties at 485 °C followed by relaxation at higher temperatures due to complete crystallization. We show that PLD in combination with post-thermal annealing can generate different families of amorphous films with varying nanoscale morphologies, resulting in tunable mechanical properties and thermal stability, which can thus be used for designing novel film configurations for different fields of application.

Abstract Precipitation and temperature are the most important climate parameters, which vary both spatially and temporally. In the present study, rainfall data of 11 synoptic stations and 40 rain gauge stations and mean air temperature data of 11 synoptic stations of Ardabil province for the period 2009–2019 collected from the Meteorological Organization of Ardabil province, were considered for investigation. The descriptive statistics of rainfall and temperature such as mean, median, coefficient of variation, skewness and kurtosis were analyzed for monthly scale data. A higher coefficient of variation signified a greater degree of variation in precipitation and temperature data across different months. To evaluate the temporal stability over several months, Pearson linear correlation analysis at a significance level of 5% was performed for each variable. Kriging geostatistical estimator and GIS interface (ArcMap 10.4.1) were used for spatial interpolation with the aid of root mean square and SRMS standards. The results revealed that the spatial variation of temperature was greater than that of precipitation.

Purpose: Drowsy driving accounts for many accidents and has attracted substantial research attention in recent years. Electroencephalography (EEG) signals are shown to be a reliable measure for the early detection of drowsiness. Unfortunately, there is no comprehensive study showing the applicability of drowsiness detection systems with EEG signals. In this research, we targeted the studies under the category of drowsiness detection, which adopted an EEG-based approach, to inspect the applicability of these systems from different aspects. Materials and Methods: We included documented studies that utilized clinical devices and consumer-grade EEG headsets for detection of drowsiness and investigated the selected studies from different aspects such as the number of EEG channels, sampling frequency, extracted features, type of classifiers, and accuracy of detection. Among available headsets, we focused on the most popular ones, namely Muse, NeuroSky, and EMOTIV brands. Results: Considerable number of studies have used EEG headsets, and their reports showed that the highest average accuracy belongs to EMOTIV, and the highest maximum detection accuracy, 98.8%, was achieved by the Muse headset. Spectral features extracted from short periods of 1, 2, or 10 secs are the most popular features, and the support vector machine is the most commonly used classifier in drowsiness detection systems. Therefore, implementing a reliable detection system does not necessarily include complicated features and classifiers. Conclusion: It is shown that, despite their few electrodes, commercial headsets have gained decent detection accuracy. This study sheds light on the current status of drowsiness detection systems and paves the way for future industrial designs of such systems.

Introduction: Acute kidney injury (AKI) induced by renal ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury is a pro-inflammatory process that activates toll-like receptors (TLRs). Stem cell therapy holds a great promise for kidney repair. Therefore, we investigated the immunomodulatory role of bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs) on TLR2 and TLR4 expression in AKI in male Sprague-Dawley rats. Methods: BMSCs were isolated from the bone marrow of male rats, cultured in DMEM, and characterized using appropriate markers before transplantation. Renal I/R was induced by 45 minutes bilateral ischemia followed by 24 hours of reperfusion. Rats received intraperitoneal injections of BMSCs (1.5 × 106 cells, i.p, per rat) immediately after termination of renal ischemia. Serum samples were collected pre-and post-stem cells injection for assessment of blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine (Cr) levels. The kidneys were harvested after 24 hours of reperfusion for structural and molecular analysis. Results: Renal I/R caused severe tissue injuries and increased the level of BUN (166.5 ± 12.9 vs. 18.25 ± 1.75) and Cr (3.7 ± 0.22 vs. 0.87 ± 0.06) compared to the sham group. In addition, mRNA expression of TLR2 and TLR4 elevated in the renal I/R group. Administration of BMSCs improved the functional and structural state of the kidney induced by I/R and down-regulated TLR2 and TLR4 gene expression. Conclusion: The results showed a highly significant renoprotection by BMSCs that indicates their therapeutic potential in I/R injures. These effects are most likely associated with the TLR2/4 signaling pathway via modulation of the inflammatory response cascades.

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a common source of functional impairment among athletes, military personnel, and the general population. Professional fighters in both boxing and mixed martial arts (MMA) are at particular risk for repetitive TBI and may provide valuable insight into both the pathophysiology of TBI and its consequences. Currently, effects of fighter weight class on brain volumetrics (regional and total) and functional outcomes are unknown. Fifty-three boxers and 103 MMA fighters participating in the Professional Fighters Brain Health Study (PRBHS) underwent volumetric magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and neuropsychological testing. Fighters were divided into lightweight (?139.9 lb), middleweight (140.0?178.5 lb), and heavyweight (>178.5 lb). Compared with lightweight fighters, heavyweights displayed greater yearly reductions in regional brain volume (boxers: bilateral thalami; MMA: left thalamus, right putamen) and functional performance (boxers: processing speed, simple and choice reaction; MMA: Trails A and B tests). Lightweights suffered greater reductions in regional brain volume on a per-fight basis (boxers: left thalamus; MMA: right putamen). Heavyweight fighters bore greater yearly burden of regional brain volume and functional decrements, possibly related to differing fight dynamics and force of strikes in this division. Lightweights demonstrated greater volumetric decrements on a per-fight basis. Although more research is needed, greater per-fight decrements in lightweights may be related to practices of weight-cutting, which may increase vulnerability to neurodegeneration post-TBI. Observed decrements associated with weight class may result in progressive impairments in fighter performance, suggesting interventions mitigating the burden of TBI in professional fighters may both improve brain health and increase professional longevity.

Background and Aim: One of the essential methods of evaluating academic libraries’ mobile websites is the usability analysis method; websites’ usability means their ease and simplicity of use. This study aims to evaluate the usability of the mobile website of the libraries of top medical universities in Iran. This study aims to evaluate the usability of mobile websites of the libraries of top Iranian universities of medical sciences. Materials and Methods: This study was done by the descriptive-survey method. The study’s statistical population includes mobile websites of the libraries of the top 50 universities of medical sciences in Iran, which have gained the highest rank in universities’ webometrics ranking in January 2019. The tool used in this study was a checklist. Data analysis was performed by descriptive and analytical statistical methods and SPSS software. Results: The data analysis showed that in terms of usability of the mobile websites of university libraries, Kerman, Birjand, and Tehran universities of medical sciences were in the first to third ranks with 89.23%, 84.62%, and 81.54%, respectively. Neishabour, Gonabad, and Semnan universities of medical sciences were the last ranks with 40%, 43.08%, and 44.62%., respectively. The evaluation of the research components showed that “system visibility status,” “assisting the user in identifying, detecting and compensating for errors,” and “guidance and documentation” were in the best situation, and components of “error prevention,” “flexibility and system efficiency,” and “User control and freedom” were in their worst condition. Conclusion: Given the increasing influence and popularity of smart cell phones in the professional life of academics, it is necessary for administrators and designers of mobile websites of academic libraries to consider the applicability and effectiveness of mobile websites of the research community, taking into account the practical findings of the present study.

Abstract Design and development of efficient processes for continuous manufacturing of solid dosage oral formulations is of crucial importance for pharmaceutical industry in order to implement the Quality-by-Design paradigm. Supercritical solvent-based manufacturing can be utilized in pharmaceutical processing owing to its inherent operational advantages. However, in order to evaluate the possibility of supercritical processing for a particular medicine, solubility measurement needs to be carried out prior to process design. The current work reports a systematic solubility analysis on decitabine as an anti-cancer medicine. The solvent is supercritical carbon dioxide at different conditions (temperatures and pressures), while gravimetric technique is used to obtain the solubility data for decitabine. The results indicated that the solubility of decitabine varies between 2.84 × 10–05 and 1.07 × 10–03 mol fraction depending on the temperature and pressure. In the experiments, temperature and pressure varied between 308–338 K and 12–40 MPa, respectively. The solubility of decitabine was plotted against temperature and pressure, and it turned out that the solubility had direct relation with the pressure due to the effect of pressure on solvating power of solvent. The effect of temperature on solubility was shown to be dependent on the cross-over pressure. Below the cross-over pressure, there is a reverse relation between temperature and solubility, while a direct relation was observed above the cross-over pressure (16 MPa). Theoretical study was carried out to correlate the solubility data using several thermodynamic-based models. The fitting and model calibration indicated that the examined models were of linear nature and capable to predict the measured decitabine solubilities with the highest average absolute relative deviation percent (AARD %) of 8.9%.

Accurate estimation of reference evapotranspiration has great importance in irrigation scheduling. Moreover, the lack of availability of lysimetric data has led researchers to use indirect methods, including data-driven approaches. In the present study, the ability of Gaussian process regression (GPR), support vector regression (SVR) and random forest (RF) data-driven methods was investigated to estimate the evapotranspiration of the reference plant. For this purpose, meteorological data on average temperature, wind speed, relative humidity and sunny hours in the period 2013-18 were collected in nine northern stations of Iran including Astara, Bandar Anzali, Rasht, Ramsar, Nowshahr, Sari, Turkmen port, Gorgan, and Gonbad Kavous. Evapotranspiration calculated using FAO-Penman-Montith method was considered as the target output and four combined scenarios of meteorological parameters were considered to calibrate and validate the studied methods. The accuracy of the mentioned methods was compared using the statistical parameters of correlation coefficient, scatter index, and Wilmott’s coefficient. The results showed that GPR4 model with scatter index in the range of 0.132 to 0.179 in Astara, Bandar Anzali, Rasht, Ramsar, Nowshahr and Sari stations, SVR4 model with dispersion index of 0.116 to 0.120 in Turkmen and Gonbad Kavous stations and the Hargreaves-Samani method with a scatter index of 0.509 at Gorgan station had much more accurate estimates of the evapotranspiration of the reference plant.

Viewing Shelley’s The Cenci from the political upheavals of the nineteenth century would limit one’s response to the play to the issues of that century. However, this play continues to be played in the twenty first century, which makes one wonder how a modern spectator with a feminist inclination might react to the theme of rape and revenge. The Cenci shares with a number of movies flourishing with the rise of the second wave feminism during the 1970s, the theme of a female victim transformed into a hero-avenger, who takes law into her own hands and avenges herself in the face of a dysfunctional legal state. As revisions of the archetypal narratives of violation-revenge-violation, these modern movies have been praised for depicting heroines who are no longer powerless, miserable and victimized, but strong enough to avenge themselves with impunity. Though The Cenci repeats the traditional pattern of violation-revenge-violation, it focuses on the corruption and irresponsibility of the patriarchal legal system as well as its reformation, which have been neglected by both mythical narratives and modern rape-revenge movies. By reading The Cenci along with William Blake’s “Visions of the Daughters of Albion” and Shelley’s “Prometheus Unbound,” we examine how The Cenci challenges the modern rape-revenge movies and how Beatrice could have used her agency and her anger in a more effective way to fight against tyranny.