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Abstract Pregnancy as a sensitive period has a critical effect on the mother and infant's life. It is well understood that dietary habits and mother awareness can improve health status and prevent pregnancy complications such as gestational diabetes, pre-eclampsia, and nausea and vomiting. The current study was conducted to investigate the association between dietary habits and self-care behaviors with pregnancy complications. This cross-sectional study was conducted across 300 pregnant women in their third trimester referred to healthcare centers and Yas hospital in Tehran, Iran. Dietary habits and self-care behaviors were assessed by valid and reliable questionnaires. Dietary intake and physical activity were evaluated using valid and reliable Food Frequency Questionnaires and Pregnancy Physical Activity questionnaires, respectively. Women with self-care behaviors had a lower rate of pre-eclampsia (P = 0.9). Regarding food habits, pregnant women who ate their meals faster had a non-significantly higher rate of gestational diabetes and pre-eclampsia. Pregnant women who consumed red meat on a daily frequency had a significantly higher rate of nausea and vomiting (OR 1.85; 95% CI 1.05–3.28, P = 0.03). Also, there was a significant positive association between the mother's pre-pregnancy BMI and gestational diabetes and pre-eclampsia [(OR 2.03; 95% CI 1.03–3.98, P = 0.03) and (OR 4.23; 95% CI 1.12–16.0, P = 0.03) respectively]. There was no significant association between pregnant women's dietary habits and GDM and pre-eclampsia. However, pregnant women with pre-pregnancy overweight and obesity had increased odds of gestational diabetes and pre-eclampsia significantly.

Abstract Alzheimer’s disease is the most prevalent neurodegenerative disorder characterized by significant memory loss and cognitive impairments. Studies have shown that the expression level and activity of the butyrylcholinesterase enzyme increases significantly in the late stages of Alzheimer’s disease, so butyrylcholinesterase can be considered as a promising therapeutic target for potential Alzheimer’s treatments. In the present study, a novel series of 2,4-disubstituted quinazoline derivatives (6a–j) were synthesized and evaluated for their inhibitory activities against acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinestrase (BuChE) enzymes, as well as for their antioxidant activities. The biological evaluation revealed that compounds 6f, 6h, and 6j showed potent inhibitory activities against eqBuChE, with IC50 values of 0.52, 6.74, and 3.65 µM, respectively. These potent compounds showed high selectivity for eqBuChE over eelAChE. The kinetic study demonstrated a mixed-type inhibition pattern for both enzymes, which revealed that the potent compounds might be able to bind to both the catalytic active site and peripheral anionic site of eelAChE and eqBuChE. In addition, molecular docking studies and molecular dynamic simulations indicated that potent compounds have favorable interactions with the active sites of BuChE. The antioxidant screening showed that compounds 6b, 6c, and 6j displayed superior scavenging capabilities compared to the other compounds. The obtained results suggest that compounds 6f, 6h, and 6j are promising lead compounds for the further development of new potent and selective BuChE inhibitors.

Abstract Background To investigate the genetics of early-onset progressive cerebellar ataxia in Iran, we conducted a study at the Children’s Medical Center (CMC), the primary referral center for pediatric disorders in the country, over a three-year period from 2019 to 2022. In this report, we provide the initial findings from the national registry. Methods We selected all early-onset patients with an autosomal recessive mode of inheritance to assess their phenotype, paraclinical tests, and genotypes. The clinical data encompassed clinical features, the Scale for the Assessment and Rating of Ataxia (SARA) scores, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) results, Electrodiagnostic exams (EDX), and biomarker features. Our genetic investigations included single-gene testing, Whole Exome Sequencing (WES), and Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS). Results Our study enrolled 162 patients from various geographic regions of our country. Among our subpopulations, we identified known and novel pathogenic variants in 42 genes in 97 families. The overall genetic diagnostic rate was 59.9%. Notably, we observed PLA2G6, ATM, SACS, and SCA variants in 19, 14, 12, and 10 families, respectively. Remarkably, more than 59% of the cases were attributed to pathogenic variants in these genes. Conclusions Iran, being at the crossroad of the Middle East, exhibits a highly diverse genetic etiology for autosomal recessive hereditary ataxia. In light of this heterogeneity, the development of preventive strategies and targeted molecular therapeutics becomes crucial. A national guideline for the diagnosis and management of patients with these conditions could significantly aid in advancing healthcare approaches and improving patient outcomes.

Abstract The design and synthesis of novel cytotoxic agents is still an interesting topic for medicinal chemistry researchers due to the unwanted side effects of anticancer drugs. In this study, a novel series of uracil–azole hybrids were designed and synthesized. The cytotoxic activity, along with computational studies: molecular docking, molecular dynamic simulation, density functional theory, and ADME properties were also, evaluated. The compounds were synthesized by using 3-methyl-6-chlorouracil as the starting material. Cytotoxicity was determined using MTT assay in the breast carcinoma cell line (MCF-7) and Hepatocellular carcinoma cell line (HEPG-2). These derivatives demonstrated powerful inhibitory activity against breast and hepatocellular carcinoma cell lines in comparison to Cisplatin as positive control. Among these compounds, 4j displayed the best selectivity profile and good activity with IC50 values of 16.18 ± 1.02 and 7.56 ± 5.28 µM against MCF-7 and HEPG-2 cell lines respectively. Structure–activity relationships revealed that the variation in the cytotoxic potency of the synthesized compounds was affected by various substitutions of benzyl moiety. The docking output showed that 4j bind well in the active site of EGFR and formed a stable complex with the EGFR protein. DFT was used to investigate the reactivity descriptors of 4a and 4j. The outputs demonstrated that these uracil–azole hybrids can be considered as potential cytotoxic agents.

Abstract Background Phospholipase-associated neurodegeneration (PLAN) caused by mutations in the PLA2G6 gene is a rare neurodegenerative disorder that presents with four sub-groups. Infantile neuroaxonal dystrophy (INAD) and PLA2G6-related dystonia-parkinsonism are the main two subtypes. In this cohort, we reviewed clinical, imaging, and genetic features of 25 adult and pediatric patients harboring variants in the PLA2G6. Methods An extensive review of the patients’ data was carried out. Infantile Neuroaxonal Dystrophy Rating Scale (INAD-RS) was used for evaluating the severity and progression of INAD patients. Whole-exome sequencing was used to determine the disease's underlying etiology followed by co-segregation analysis using Sanger sequencing. In silico prediction analysis based on the ACMG recommendation was used to assess the pathogenicity of genetic variants. We aimed to survey a genotype-genotype correlation in PLA2G6 considering all reported disease-causing variants in addition to our patients using the HGMD database and the chi-square statistical approach. Results Eighteen cases of INAD and 7 cases of late-onset PLAN were enrolled. Among 18 patients with INAD, gross motor regression was the most common presenting symptom. Considering the INAD-RS total score, the mean rate of progression was 0.58 points per month of symptoms (Standard error 0.22, lower 95% − 1.10, and upper 95% − 0.15). Sixty percent of the maximum potential loss in the INAD-RS had occurred within 60 months of symptom onset in INAD patients. Among seven adult cases of PLAN, hypokinesia, tremor, ataxic gate, and cognitive impairment were the most frequent clinical features. Various brain imaging abnormalities were also observed in 26 imaging series of these patients with cerebellar atrophy being the most common finding in more than 50%. Twenty unique variants in 25 patients with PLAN were detected including nine novel variants. Altogether, 107 distinct disease-causing variants from 87 patient were analyzed to establish a genotype–phenotype correlation. The P value of the chi-square test did not indicate a significant relationship between age of disease onset and the distribution of reported variants on PLA2G6. Conclusion PLAN presents with a wide spectrum of clinical symptoms from infancy to adulthood. PLAN should be considered in adult patients with parkinsonism or cognition decline. Based on the current knowledge, it is not possible to foresee the age of disease onset based on the identified genotype.

IntroductionIn recent years, due to the excessive consumption of agricultural inputs, especially chemical fertilizers and common methods of crop production, problems have arisen that have led to more attention to sustainable agriculture.Zeolite is one of the natural minerals that also has nutritional value and can be considered a step towards achieving sustainable agriculture.Materials and methodsIn order to investigate the effect of type and amount of zeolite on the yield of common millet, an experiment was conducted in the crop year of 2017-17 at the research farm of the Faculty of Agriculture of Birjand University. This factorial experiment was performed using randomized complete block design with 3 replications. Experimental treatments included two types of calcium and potash zeolites in two forms of powder and granules, which were considered at two levels (5 and 10 tons per hectare) with a control treatment without zeolite. In this study, common millet (Pursu) was used for cultivation.Results and discussionNumber of clusters per plant: Analysis of variance of data showed that the effect of treatment on this trait was not statistically significant at the level of 5% probability. However, the control treatment had fewer clusters than the potassium powder and granular treatments of 10 tons per hectare and the calcic powder and granule treatments of 10 tons per hectare. Also, the control treatment had more clusters than the calcium granular and powder treatments of 5 tons per hectare and the potassium granular and powder treatments of 5 tons per hectare. Comparison of the average effect of zeolite content on the number of clusters per plant showed that increasing the application of zeolite from 5 tons per hectare to 10 tons per hectare caused a significant increase in the number of clusters per millet plant at a probability level of 5%.Thousand-grain weight: Analysis of variance of 1000-grain weight data as a treatment, to compare with the zeolite control treatment showed that the effect of zeolite treatment on millet 1000-grain weight was significant at 5% probability level. The results of factorial analysis of variance showed that the simple effect of zeolite type on 1000-grain weight was significant at 5% probability level. But the simple effect of zeolite content as well as the interaction effect of type and amount of zeolite on this trait was not significant.Grain yield: The results of analysis of variance of grain yield data to compare treatments containing zeolite with control treatment without zeolite showed that the effect of zeolite treatment on grain yield was significant at the level of 1% probability. The results of factorial analysis of variance showed that the simple effect of zeolite content at 1% probability level and the effect of type and amount of zeolite at 5% probability level on grain yield were significant. But the simple effect of zeolite type had no significant effect on this factor. The results of comparing the average amount of zeolite on grain yield showed that increasing the amount of zeolite increased millet grain yield at a probability level of 5%.Water use efficiency: The results showed a significant effect of zeolite treatment on water use efficiency at a probability level of 1%. The results of variance for water use efficiency showed that this trait was significantly affected by the simple effect of zeolite content and the interaction between type and amount of zeolite at 5% level but the effect of zeolite type on it was not significant. The results of comparing the average amount of zeolite on water use efficiency showed a statistically significant difference between the application of 5 and 10 tons per hectare of zeolite at the level of one percent.ConclusionThe results showed that the application of different types of zeolite caused a significant increase in 1000-grain weight and number of grains per panicle at a probability level of 5% and grain yield, water use efficiency at a probability level of one percent compared to control treatment (no application of zeolite). Increasing the application of zeolite from 5 to 10 tons per hectare significantly increased the number of spikes per plant, number of seeds per spike, 1000-seed weight, biological yield, grain yield and water use efficiency. Therefore, with the optimal using of this fertilizer, the effects of drought stress on plants are somewhat reduced and it is recommended for using in dry areas.

BackgroundLeishmaniasis 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.MethodsThis 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.ResultsAs 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.ConclusionsThese 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.

What is clear is that judges usually judge cases based on their knowledge, experience, personality, and sentiment. Due to high pressures and stress, it may be difficult for them to carefully examine documents and evidence, which leads to more subjective judgments. Legal judgment prediction with artificial intelligence algorithms can benefit judicial bodies, legal experts, and litigants as well as judges. In this research, we are looking at predicting legal sentences in drug cases involving the purchase, possession, concealment, or transportation of illicit drugs, using machine learning methods, and the effect of sentiment and emotions in case texts on predicting the severity of whipping, fines, and imprisonment. So, the text documents of 6000 Persian drug-related cases were pre-processed and then the translation of the NRC Glossary of Emotions and sentiment was used to give each item a score for positive or negative sentiment and a score for emotion. Then machine learning methods were used for modeling. BERT, TFIDF+Adaboost, and Skipgram+LSTM+CNN methods had the highest accuracy, respectively. Also, evaluation criteria were analyzed in situations where sentiment scores, emotional scores, or both were used in the prediction process along with judicial texts. Finally, it was found that the use of sentiment and emotion scores improves the accuracy of legal judgment predictions for all three types of sentences and that sentiments have a greater impact on the accuracy of legal judgment predictions than emotions

Abstract Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) is one of the most successful parasites in the world, because about a third of the world's population is seropositive for toxoplasmosis. Treatment regimens for toxoplasmosis have remained unchanged for the past 20 years, and no new drugs have been introduced to the market recently. This study, performed molecular docking to identify interactions of FDA-approved drugs with essential residues in the active site of proteins of T. gondii Dihydrofolate Reductase (TgDHFR), Prolyl-tRNA Synthetase (TgPRS), and Calcium-Dependent Protein Kinase 1 (TgCDPK1). Each protein was docked with 2100 FDA-approved drugs using AutoDock Vina. Also, the Pharmit software was used to generate pharmacophore models based on the TgDHFR complexed with TRC-2533, TgPRS in complex with halofuginone, and TgCDPK1 in complex with a bumped kinase inhibitor, RM-1–132. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulation was also performed for 100 ns to verify the stability of interaction in drug–protein complexes. Molecular Mechanics Poisson-Boltzmann Surface Area (MMPBSA) analysis evaluated the binding energy of selected complexes. Ezetimibe, Raloxifene, Sulfasalazine, Triamterene, and Zafirlukast drugs against the TgDHFR protein, Cromolyn, Cefexim, and Lactulose drugs against the TgPRS protein, and Pentaprazole, Betamethasone, and Bromocriptine drugs against TgCDPK1 protein showed the best results. These drugs had the lowest energy-based docking scores and also stable interactions based on MD analyses with TgDHFR, TgPRS, and TgCDPK1 drug targets that can be introduced as possible drugs for laboratory investigations to treat T. gondii parasite infection.

Background: Mental disorders can significantly impact maternal health and neonatal health and development. This study investigated maternal anxiety, depression, and stress during pregnancy concerning their children's development.Methods: In this follow-up study, all pregnant women with gestational age > 12 weeks referring to an obstetrics and gynecology clinic affiliated with Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences over six months were included. Data on mothers were collected using a personal information questionnaire and the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS)-42 standard questionnaire. Finally, based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria, the children of 73 mothers were included in the study. Infant development was assessed based on the Persian version of the Ages and Stages Questionnaire (ASQ) at six months postpartum.Data analysis was conducted using the Pearson correlation test and multiple regression analysis. Statistical analyzes were carried out using SPSS 21. A P-value

Abstract Herein, we reported the synthesis of nineteen novel 1,2,4-triazole derivatives including 1,3-diphenyl-2-(1H-1,2,4-triazol-1-yl) propan-1-ones (7a-e), 1-(1,3-diphenylpropan-2-yl)-1H-1,2,4-triazole (8a-c) and 1,4-diphenyl-2-(1H-1,2,4-triazol-1-yl) butane-1,4-diones (10a-k). The structures of these derivatives were confirmed by spectroscopic techniques like IR, 1H-NMR, Mass spectroscopy and Elemental analysis. The cytotoxic activities of the synthesized compounds were evaluated against three human cancer cell lines including MCF-7, Hela and A549 using MTT assay. Compounds 7d, 7e, 10a and 10d showed a promising cytotoxic activity lower than 12 μM against Hela cell line. The safety of these compounds was also, evaluated on MRC-5 as a normal cell line and relieved that most of the synthesized compounds have proper selectivity against normal and cytotoxic cancerous cell lines. Finally, molecular docking studies were also, done to understand the mechanism and binding modes of these derivatives in the binding pocket of aromatase enzyme as a possible target.

Background: Social relations are a complex process and originate from the interaction of a person with the environment. People have an inherent need to establish social relations to have the approval and respect of the others. The current study was conducted to design a model of approval and respect in the social relations of the people of Quchan. Methods: The research philosophy was in the realm of pragmatism and the research method was mixed. Also, the research strategy in the qualitative part was foundational data theorizing, and in the quantitative part, the survey. To analyze the data of this research, in the qualitative part, MAXQDA software was used, and in the quantitative part, SPSS software (version 22) and PLS software were used. Results: The results obtained from the analysis of qualitative data show that the model of approval and respect in the social relations of the people of Quchan includes 19 open codes, of which 5 codes are related to the category of causal factors, 2 codes are related to the central category, 2 codes related to the strategy category, 4 codes related to the consequences category, 3 codes related to the context category, and 3 codes related to the intervention category. Also, in the quantitative part, the results of the data showed that the mentioned model has the required validity. Conclusion: It can be concluded that social relations imply desirable learned behaviors that enable people to have effective relationships with others and avoid unreasonable social reactions.

Abstract Background Giant axonal neuropathy (GAN) is a progressive childhood hereditary polyneuropathy that affects both the peripheral and central nervous systems. Disease‐causing variants in the gigaxonin gene (GAN) cause autosomal recessive giant axonal neuropathy. Facial weakness, nystagmus, scoliosis, kinky or curly hair, pyramidal and cerebellar signs, and sensory and motor axonal neuropathy are the main symptoms of this disorder. Here, we report two novel variants in the GAN gene from two unrelated Iranian families. Methods Clinical and imaging data of patients were recorded and evaluated, retrospectively. Whole‐exome sequencing (WES) was undertaken in order to detect disease‐causing variants in participants. Confirmation of a causative variant in all three patients and their parents was carried out using Sanger sequencing and segregation analysis. In addition, for comparing to our cases, we reviewed all relevant clinical data of previously published cases of GAN between the years 2013–2020. Results Three patients from two unrelated families were included. Using WES, we identified a novel nonsense variant [NM_022041.3:c.1162del (p.Leu388Ter)], in a 7‐year‐old boy of family 1, and a likely pathogenic missense variant [NM_022041.3:c.370T>A (p.Phe124Ile)], in two affected siblings of the family 2. Clinical examination revealed typical features of GAN‐1 in all three patients, including walking difficulties, ataxic gait, kinky hair, sensory‐motor polyneuropathy, and nonspecific neuroimaging abnormalities. Review of 63 previously reported cases of GAN indicated unique kinky hair, gait problem, hyporeflexia/areflexia, and sensory impairment were the most commonly reported clinical features. Conclusions One homozygous nonsense variant and one homozygous missense variant in the GAN gene were discovered for the first time in two unrelated Iranian families that expand the mutation spectrum of GAN. Imaging findings are nonspecific, but the electrophysiological study in addition to history is helpful to achieve the diagnosis. The molecular test confirms the diagnosis.

In hypothermia, the core temperature of the body decreases below 35°C. In this situation, the body initiates some thermal regulatory process. Thermal regulation is the balance between heat production (thermogenesis) and heat loss (thermolysis) during thermal changes. Thermoregulation in skin blood flow can maintain body temperature and so homeostasis. A large body of literature has shown that in cold exposure, the hypothalamus contributes to thermoregulation by affecting skin blood flow. Moreover, some peripheral factors contribute to thermoregulation through modification of skin blood flow. Furthermore, the sympathetic nervous system can regulate the body temperature through a noradrenergic vasoconstrictor and a vasodilator system. As orexin receptors are also found in several peripheral mammal tissues, the activation of the orexin may stimulate the autonomic nervous system to increase blood pressure leading to control of heat balance. The present study aimed to evaluate the activity level and involvement of thermal regulators in cold stress. Generally, more experiments should be accomplished to find the regulatory pathways in these situations. Furthermore, this study was focused on the effect of orexin on thermoregulatory functions. This brief review intended to report the studies revealing the prime effects of orexin on the body temperature through influences exerted on the sympathetic nervous system.

Abstract 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.

In recent years, resistance to conventional antimicrobial drugs has become a serious concern in the clinic. Hence, the discovery of novel and effective antimicrobial agents with improved properties is of great value. In this study, the antibacterial and anticandidal activities of some imidazole, benzimidazole and benztriazole derivatives (C1-C8) against several species of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pyogenes, Escherichia coli and Salmonella typhi as well as one species of fungi including Candida albicans, were evaluated using Clinical & Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) method. Antimicrobial evaluation revealed that among the tested compounds, imidazole derivative (C5) indicated the highest activity against bacterial strains and Candida albicans. It was found that compound C5 is more potent than ampicillin against S. aureus strain (MIC =2-16 µg/mL) and possessed excellent anticandidal activity (MIC =1 µg/mL) which was comparable to Amphotericin B as the positive control. In addition, cytotoxic activity of the tested compounds was investigated using MTT assay. The results of MTT assay demonstrated that the toxicity of the tested compounds was less than 35%. Please cite this article as: Sara Sadeghian, Ahmad Gholami, Soghra Khabnadideh, Razieh Razmi, Issa Sadeghain, Younes Ghasemi & Zahra Rezaei. Evaluation of Antibacterial and Anticandidal Activities of Some Imidazole, Benzimidazole and Benztriazole Derivatives. Trends in Pharmaceutical Sciences. 2022;8(2):75-84 .doi: 10.30476/TIPS.2022.93637.1126

Abstract 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. Graphical Abstract

Abstract A series of 2-aryl/alkyl-2,3-dihydro-1H-naphtho[1,2-e][1,3]oxazines (S 1 –S 11 ) were synthesized with an eco-friendly and recoverable nanocatalyst (GO-Fe3O4–Ti(IV)) as an efficient magnetic composite. The new nanocatalyst was characterized by FT-IR, XRD and, EDS analysis. A conformable procedure, easy to work up and having a short reaction time with high yields are some advantages of this method. The new catalyst is also thermal-stable, reusable and, environment-friendly. The chemical structures of the synthesized 1,3-oxazine compounds were confirmed by comparing their melting points with those reported in literature. Then, the anticonvulsant activity of these compounds was assessed by the intraperitoneal pentylenetetrazole test (ipPTZ). Compounds S 10 and S 11 displayed considerable activity against chemically-induced seizure tests. The molecular simulation was also done to achieve their binding affinities as γ‐aminobutyric acid A (GABA‐A) receptor agonists as an assumptive mechanism of their anticonvulsant action. The result of molecular studies represented strongly matched with biological activity. Molecular docking simulation of the potent compound ( S 10 ) and diazepam as the positive control was performed and some critical residues like Thr262, Asn265, Met286, Phe289, and Val290 were identified. Based on the anticonvulsant results and also in silico ADME predictions, S 11 can be to become a potential drug candidate as an anticonvulsant agent.

إن الجانب التربوي لقصة الأطفال جعلها أداة مناسبة لتعليم الناشئيين في المجالات المختلفة، منها تعليم التاريخ، لأن السرد والتاريخ يتلاقيان في رواية حادثة ما في تسلسل زمني مثير يجذب القارئ ولكنهما يختلفان في تناولها من حيث الواقع والمتخيل. اذن تضافر الواقع التاريخي والمتخيل السردي في قصة الأطفال أمر جدير بالبحث والمناقشة، وهذا ما حدث في مجموعة «حياة محمّد (ص) في عشرين قصة» لعبدالتواب يوسف، الكاتب المصري، فإنّها رواية تاريخية لحياة رسول الله (ص) تحكي أحداثا واقعية مستمدة من اللعب الإيهامي المستعمل في قصة الأطفال. فامتازت قصص عبدالتواب يوسف بـ«الأنا» الراوي الشاهد الممتثل في الشخصية الخيالية التي تروي الحوادث كشاهدة من شهود الواقعة التاريخية فلايشوب قولها الكذب ليثق المتلقي بالحوادث التاريخية عن حياة النبي (ص) الوصف والحوار، أداةً بنيت عليها عناصر المتخيل السردي للرواية، فأُستخدم التقرير السردي لسرد الحوادث والوصفُ لإعطاء صورة سردية عن الأشخاص، والحوادث، والأماكن والمشاهد و الحوارُ لتحديد الرؤية الفنية السردية للمتلقي.

The aim of this study was to examine the effectiveness of positive thinking skills training on distress tolerance and quality of life in mothers of students with special learning disabilities. The method of the present study was quasi-experimental pretest-posttest with a control group. The statistical population of this study included all mothers of children aged 6 to 12 years with special learning disorders in Islamshahr, Iran in 2020. 30 mothers were selected by convenience sampling method and randomly assigned to experimental and control groups (15 people in each group). Simons and Gaher (2005) Distress Tolerance Scale and the World Health Organization Quality of Life Scale (2000) were used to collect data. In the experimental group, positive thinking skills training was performed in seven sessions. The control group did not receive any intervention during this period. Multivariate analysis of covariance was used to test the hypotheses. The results indicated that positive thinking skills training significantly increased distress tolerance and quality of life in mothers (P

Abstract Background The genus Eryngium is a member of the Apiaceae family that has shown different pharmacological effects mainly including anti-inflammatory, analgesic, anti-cancer, hepatoprotective, and anti-oxidant. Previous research on the anti-cancer activity of Eryngium in some cancer cell lines has led us to explore the anti-proliferative activity of E. caucasicum in the B16F10 cell line. Objective In this study, the antiproliferative activity of E. caucasicum on melanoma cancer cells (B16F10) and non-cancerous cells (HFFF2) were evaluated in vitro. Methods The dried plant sample of E. caucasicum was extracted by Soxhlet apparatus with n-Hexane, dichloromethane, and methanol solvents. The effects of cytotoxicity of the extracts by the MTT method on melanoma cancer cells (B16F10) and noncancerous cells (HFFF2) was investigated for 24 and 48 hours. Then, the cytotoxicity of different fractions of the strong extract against normal and cancer cells was evaluated by this method. Annexin V/PI assay was used to study the induction apoptosis via the fractions in cancer cells. Findings According to the results of the MTT test, n-Hexane extract is the most effective extract against the B16F10 cell line and is a candidate for fractionation with VLC. Among the fractions, 40 and 60% VLC fractions of n-Hexan extract inhibited the growth of B16F10 cells at 24 and 48 hours while, these fractions at IC50 concentration had no cytotoxic effects on normal cells. Treatment of cancer cells with effective extract caused apoptosis and necrosis and 40 and 60% more fractions induced apoptosis in these cells. Conclusion The n-Hexane extract of E. caucasicum and its 40 and 60% fractions showed the highest cytotoxic effect against the B16F10 cell line compared to other extracts and control groups. This inhibition was made through induction of apoptosis.

AbstractBackground and Objective: This research was conducted in order to study the possibility of increasing yield, yield components and chlorophyll content of artichoke (Cynara scolymus L.) by mycorrhizal inoculation and living and non-living mulches.Materials and Methods: Experiment was conducted during 2017 and 2018 at the research farm of the University of Zanjan. A three-replicate split plot design based on randomized complete block design (RCBD) was conducted. Two levels of inoculation (inoculation with Rhizophagus irregularis and non- inoculation) were considered as main plots and a variety of living mulches (Trifolium alexandrinum, Lathyrus sativus), non-living mulches (plastic mulch (silver external side and black internal one), wheat straw) and Complete handweeding, one-hand weeding and no-weeding were considered as sub plots. Results: The highest of fresh weight (336.01 ton/ha) and dry weight (34.21 ton/ha) were recorded in plastic mulch treatment under mycorrhizal inoculation conditions. Mycorrhizal colonization increased plant height, Leaf Area Index (LAI), chlorophyll a and chlorophyll (a+b) by 2.1%, 9.1%, 6.6% and 5.2%, respectively. Highest plant height (167 cm), leaf area index (122.18), number of leaves per plant (43), chlorophyll a, b and )a+b( (0.697, 0.388 and 1.085 mg g -1 FW) were obtained in plastic mulch treatment. Conclusion: Generally, mycorrhizal inoculation and the use of living and non-living mulches can be suggested as a solution to increase the yield of artichoke.Keywords: Mycorrhizal inoculation, Dry weight, Hand weeding, Height, Leaf area index, Mulch

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.

Background: Frequent hand washing and prolonged mask use during the Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic may cause contact dermatitis in hospital staffs. This study was conducted to investigate the prevalence of contact dermatitis and its related factors among hospital staff during the COVID-19 pandemic. Materials and Methods: The present cross-sectional study was conducted among the hospital personnel of Aligoudarz Shahid Valian Hospital, Lorestan, Iran, from March to June 2020. Sampling was performed using the complete enumeration method and 142 hospital staff (physicians, nurses, service personnel, nurses' aides, secretaries, and laboratory and radiology experts) participated in the study. Data were collected using a 3-part questionnaire containing a demographic characteristics form, job information form, and the Nordic Occupational Skin Questionnaire (NOSQ). The obtained data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Chi-square, and Spearman's correlation coefficient in SPSS. Results: The prevalence of hand dermatitis in participants was 88.02%, and facial dermatitis with the surgical mask was 71.83% and with n95 mask was 81.69%. The most-reported symptom was dryness of the hand. The most common symptom observed after prolonged use of surgical (55 Samples; 38.73%) and n95 masks (79 Samples; 55.63%) was redness. The frequency of hand washing (F = 8; p = 0.017) and the use of liquid soap (F = 4; p = 0.047) had a significant interrelation with the severity of dermatitis. Conclusions: Planning for preventive actions and management of the current situation should be a priority among the policies of hospital managers given the high prevalence of hand and face dermatitis among hospital staff.

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.

Resistance of Candida species is a major problem in the management of Candida infection. This study investigated in vivo antifungal activities of several new imidazole and triazole derivatives in a C. albicans systemic infection. The efficacy of derivatives was determined against systemic infection by C. albicans in mice with cyclophosphamide-induced immunosuppression, and the antifungal activities of the synthesized compounds were evaluated in comparison with fluconazole. Compounds 3 and 8 had the highest efficacy with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values of 0.5–1 μM against the C. albicans pathogen. In vivo activities in immunosuppressed mice were also greater than fluconazole. Furthermore, docking analysis was carried out to know the binding mode of imidazole and triazole derivatives to the CYP51 active site of C. albicans and dihydrofolate reductase as a valid antifungal target. The docking study found that the antifungal results are well correlated with docking results. ADMET and in silico physicochemical parameters were also performed. This study demonstrates that compounds 3 and 8 are potential antifungal candidates against the C. albicans pathogen.

Abstract We reported an association between SARS‐CoV‐2 infection and Guillain–Barre syndrome (GBS). From 37 patients with GBS, previous SARS‐CoV‐2 clinical clues, including fever, cough, and diarrhea, were recorded in 18 patients. Among them, SARS‐CoV‐2 IgG was detected in seven patients, considered confirmed as cases. SARS‐CoV‐2 PCR was positive in just one patient. Although we found no increase in patient recruitment during the pandemic compared to previous years, our study indicated that SARS‐CoV‐2 is associated with poorer outcomes regarding GBS disability scale and hospital stay.

Abstract Background Frail older adults who are hospitalized, are more likely to experience missed nursing care (MNC) due to high care needs, communication problems, and complexity of nursing care. We conducted a qualitative study to examine the factors affecting MNC among hospitalized frail older adults in the medical units. Methods This qualitative study was carried using the conventional content analysis approach in three teaching hospitals. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 17 nurses through purposive and snowball sampling. The inclusion criteria for the nurses were: at least two years of clinical work experience on a medical ward, caring for frail older people in hospital and willingness to participate. Data were analyzed in accordance with the process described by Graneheim and Lundman. In addition, trustworthiness of the study was assessed using the criteria proposed by Lincoln and Guba. Results In general, 20 interviews were conducted with nurses. A total of 1320 primary codes were extracted, which were classified into two main categories: MNC aggravating and moderating factors. Factors such as “age-unfriendly structure,” “inefficient care,” and “frailty of older adults” could increase the risk of MNC. In addition, factors such as “support capabilities” and “ethical and legal requirements” will moderate MNC. Conclusions Hospitalized frail older adults are more at risk of MNC due to high care needs, communication problems, and nursing care complexity. Nursing managers can take practical steps to improve the quality of care by addressing the aggravating and moderating factors of MNC. In addition, nurses with a humanistic perspective who understand the multidimensional problems of frail older adults and pay attention to their weakness in expressing needs, can create a better experience for them in the hospital and improve patient safety.

Objective: This research is aimed at understanding the roots and axial concept of Managers Decidophobia with Using Grounded Theory Ministry of the Interior and Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs. Methods: This Mixed-methods research uses a systematic integration of quantitative and qualitative data. Research Onion Saunders (2009) Rationalistic philosophies, Combined approach, Strategies grounded theory, choices Mixed methods, Time horizons Cross-Sectional, Techniques and procedures Library -square. The qualitative part is the GT and the quantitative part utilizes a structural equation modeling. The qualitative part used semi-structured interviews for its data collection and a researcher ‎made questionnaire quantitative section the validity and reliability of the confirmed. Results: The data analysis, identified 169 open codes and 22 axial, 10 selective categories. Among these dimensions is evasion in decision-making, inability to understand the problem, fear of facing decision‎making and abstract decision‎making related to the variable of Managers Decidophobia (the axial phenomenon) and weakness in decision‎making, fear of consequences decision, organizational climate, lack of program-oriented organizational decisions, lack of decision‎making experience, lack of access to real information, related to the causative conditions affecting the axial phenomenon were identified. Conclusion: Based on the findings of the qualitative part and the confirmation of the relationship between dimensions and variables using the identified codes it was determined that causal conditions with acceptable effect coefficients and significance coefficients affect the phenomenon of Managers Decidophobia. The GOF, Q2, Rsquare and Fsqare criteria for the structural model and the measurement models were calculated using the Smart PLS 3 software. It is also worth mentioning that all of the mentioned variables had allowed and acceptable values.

Background: Providing a proper learning environment promotes motivation, satisfaction, and an overall positive perception in students; therefore it is essential for training skillful proficient doctors. Hence, the present study aims to assess the viewpoints of medical students on learning environment, field of study, career prospects, and the correlation between them.Methods: This study is a descriptive cross-sectional correlational study with a sample size of 165. Data was collected through standard questionnaires of DREEM to assess the learning environment as well as the Hasanloo et al. questionnaire to assess attitudes toward the field of study and career prospects. Data normality was measured using Kolmogrov Smirnov test. Correlation between attitude toward learning environment, field of study, and career prospect was evaluated by Pearson test.Results: The mean total score of 97.83 obtained in DREEM test, indicated a semi-optimal environment and did not show a significant difference in preclinical, and clinical students. Scores regarding the perception of the field of study and career prospects were 31.60 and 21.20, respectively, which indicates the students' optimal perception of the field of study and career prospects. Career prospect' score in preclinical students was higher than clinical students (p

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 (P0.05). 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 Canine visceral leishmaniasis (CVL) is endemic in the southern parts of Iran. The current study aimed at molecular and serological evaluation of zoonotic visceral leishmaniasis in dogs in Fars province, southern Iran. Blood samples were collected from 60 dogs in the three villages in Fars Province. Serum samples were tested for antibodies against L. infantum by direct agglutination test (DAT). DNA was extracted from each dog's buffy coat and tested by PCR, targeting the Leishmania ITS‐2 region. From a total of 60 studied dogs, 25 (41.7%) were female, and 35 (58.3%) were male. Dogs' age ranged from 1 to 7 years, with a mean age of 2.97 (±1.4) years. Anti‐Leishmania antibodies were detected in sera samples of 28 (46.7%) dogs, (titre ≥ 1:320). Out of 28 seropositive cases, 13 (46.4%) were female, and 15 (53.6%) were male. Association between seropositivity and dogs’ clinical signs was statistically significant (p

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 Background Artemisia splendens from the Asteraceae family is a new source of biologically active compounds. The current study investigated to evaluate antimicrobial and cytotoxicity activity of methanolic extracts and their fractions obtained from aerial parts by agar disk diffusion and MTT methods, respectively. The active fractions were subjected to preparative HPLC for isolating the pure compounds, which were structurally elucidated, by 1H and 13C NMR. Results The results showed that the methanolic extract and its 60% SPE fraction have the anti-proliferative activity on A549 cell line in comparison with the control group. Meanwhile, the methanolic extract and its 40% SPE fraction can inhibit the growth of Gram-positive strains as anti-microbial activity. The 60% SPE fraction also illustrated anti-proliferative activity on the HT-29 cell line compared to the control group. Chromatographic separations via preparative HPLC yielded 5 flavonoids and three flavonoid glycosides. Conclusion Based on the results it can be concluded that A. splendens as a potential source of cytotoxic and antimicrobial compounds can be used in pharmaceutics.

Introduction: Curriculum needs to be re-evaluated during implementation Graduates' low ability can be related to non-compliance of curriculum content with job need. This study sought to investigate the degree of compliance of content of the general dentistry curriculum with job needs from perspective of Dentists in Birjand and their skills. Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in the academic year 2020 in Birjand. Target group was general dentists in Birjand, namely census sampling. Data were gathered through a researcher-made questionnaire with three sections like this: demographic information, degree of compliance of curriculum content with job need (including 6 subgroups, 93 questions of theoretical courses before and after basic sciences, practical courses before and after basic sciences, pre-clinic courses and internship courses) and skill of dentist at beginning of work (51 items) with 5-point Likert scale The link of electronic questionnaire was sent for dentists via social media (Telegram and WhatsApp). Data were assessed by descriptive statistics Using excel 2013 software. Results: Seventy four questionnaire were completed and analyzed. In basic sciences course, the two lessons of anatomical sciences (3.565 ± 0.882) as well as oral health and society (3.42 ± 0.961) had the most and parasitology (2.116 ± 0.85) and biochemistry (2.159 ± 0.98) had the lowest compliance with job need. In other lessons, compliance with job need was favorable. The dentists' skill level was very low on treatment of the opened sinus, medical emergencies, construction of orthodontic plaque, and crown lengthening. Conclusion: Due to the low degree of compliance of theoretical and practical courses in basic sciences, the use of novel pedagogical methods as horizontal or vertical integration of the curriculum seems to be necessary to establish a relationship between basic and clinical sciences.

Background: Investigating the effect of environmental factors, such as parental guidance and upbringing, on the individuals’ growth during their childhood and adolescence requires a long-term longitudinal study. So that, its effect on the individual cannot be sought immediately after an educational or psychological intervention. This article describes the designed protocol for the longitudinal survey of the development of Iranian children and adolescents. Methods: After performing a comparative study and reviewing similar global experiences in designing such surveys, the Iranian longitudinal survey on the development of children and adolescents was designed for five waves with a two-year interval. The longitudinal sample at the beginning of the study comprised children aged 0 to 11 years. Several questionnaires were designed for families, parents, children, adolescents and young people, teachers, and principals of schools in which the child was studying, as well as caregivers at home and kindergarten. In this survey, a three-stage probability sampling method with stratum at the provincial and national levels with two different scenarios was proposed. Findings: A roadmap for longitudinal study on the development of Iranian children and adolescents was designed and presented. Thirteen questionnaires were prepared and also, the sampling method and the method of implementing survey in different waves was determined. Conclusion: In this survey, for the first time, Iranian longitudinal studies of children and adolescents’ development have been designed with the aim of in-depth and comprehensive study of the children and adolescents’ development process and the effect of individual, family, and educational factors on their growth and development. Keywords: Longitudinal studies; Child development; Adolescents; Sampling studies; Surveys and questionnaires

Background and objectives: Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a recurrent chronic inflammatory disease of the gastrointestinal tract. In Iranian traditional medicine, the oleo-gum-resin of the genus Pistacia is recommended for treatment of various diseases including gastrointestinal disorders. The present study investigated the therapeutic action of a combination of Pistacia atlantica subspecies kurdica oleo-gum-resin and honey in acetic acid-induced colitis in rats. Methods: Pistacia atlantica oleo-gum-resin was mixed with honey. The mixture was suspended in distilled water. Following induction of colitis with 4% acetic acid in all animals, except in sham group,themixture was orally administered for two consecutive days at the concentrations of 100, 200, 400 mg/kg. Other groups included the control, sham and a standard group (dexamethasone). Microscopic and histopathologic examinations were conducted in inflamed colonic tissue. The inflammatory biomarkers of colitis including interleukin 6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α), and myeloperoxidase (MPO) and the gene expression level of toll like receptor-4 (TLR-4) were assessed. Results: Pistacia atlantica oleo-gum-resin+ honey induced significant progress in macroscopic and microscopic scores. Colonic levels of MPO, IL-6, and TNF-α significantly declined in rats treated with the mixture; while significant decrease in mucosal gene expression of TLR-4 and significant improvement of colitis were observed. Pistacia atlantica oleo-gum-resin (400 mg/kg) + honey (400 mg/kg)reduced inflammation of the bowel and colonic ulcer severity shown by downregulation of inflammation cytokines, reduction of neutrophil infiltration, and suppression of TLR-4 expression. Conclusion: The combination might be a promising supplement for treatment of inflammatory disorders.

Abstract Background One of the most challenging issues for the elderly population is the clinical state of frailty. Frailty is defined as a cumulative decline across psychological, physical, and social functioning. Hospitalization is one of the most stressful events for older people who are becoming frail. The aim of the present study was to determine the effectiveness of interventions focused on management of frailty in hospitalized frail older adults. Methods A systematic review and meta-analysis of research was conducted using the Medline, Embase, Cochrane, ProQuest, CINAHL, SCOPUS and Web of Science electronic databases for papers published between 2000 and 2019. Randomized controlled studies were included that were aimed at the management of frailty in hospitalized older adults. The outcomes which were examined included frailty; physical, psychological, and social domains; length of stay in hospital; re-hospitalization; mortality; patient satisfaction; and the need for post discharge placement. Results After screening 7976 records and 243 full-text articles, seven studies (3 interventions) were included, involving 1009 hospitalized older patients. The quality of these studies was fair to poor and the risk of publication bias in the studies was low. Meta-analysis of the studies showed statistically significant differences between the intervention and control groups for the management of frailty in hospitalized older adults (ES = 0.35; 95% CI: 0. 067–0.632; z = 2.43; P

Abstract Autosomal recessive cerebellar ataxias are a group of heterogeneous early‐onset progressive disorders that some of them are treatable. We performed a 4‐year follow‐up for 25 patients who had treatable ataxia. According to our study, patients would benefit from early detection of treatable ataxia, close observation, and follow‐up.

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

Background: T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia is an aggressive hematologic malignancy that results from the transformation of T-cell progenitors. Despite the significant advances in the current treatments, the side-effects of conventional chemotherapy regimens are still a major concern. Pterostilbene (PT) is a natural compound reported to have antitumor effects. This study aimed to investigate the effect of PT combined with dexamethasone on the proliferation inhibition and apoptosis stimulation in a lymphoblastic leukemia cell line. Methods: In this experimental study, we cultured Jurkat cell line in RPMI1640 culture medium under standard conditions. We incubated the cells with different concentrations of PT and dexamethasone, separately or in combination for 48 h. MTS assay investigated the cell viability. We assessed apoptosis induction by annexin V-FITC/PI and flow cytometry analysis. Results: PT and dexamethasone reduced the viability of the cells with inhibition concentrations of 60.97±3.36 and 451.1±10.1 μM, respectively, in 48 h. None of the concentrations of dexamethasone, employed alone, significantly reduced the cell viability. The combination of 450 μM dexamethasone with 60 μM PT induced apoptosis in more than 70% of the cells with a significant difference compared to control. Conclusion: PT increased the antiproliferative and apoptosis-inducing activity of dexamethasone in Jurkat cell line. This combination drug strategy can be a novel approach for a more powerful anticancer therapy.

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.

Generalized lymphangiomatosis (GLA) is a rare lymphatic abnormality, mostly affects children and young individuals and can be a diagnostic challenge because of wide spectrum of clinical manifestations. A 26-year-old woman presented to the emergency department of our institution with respiratory distress and hypoxia. The patient reported similar episodes for the past 10 years without a definite diagnosis. The imaging study demonstrated findings suggestive of GLA with pulmonary, retroperitoneal and osseous involvements which was confirmed on pathological studies from a lung biopsy. A concise review of the clinical, imaging and pathological findings of GLA is provided in this study. A comprehensive history and physical examination, laboratory and pathological work up and imaging is required to make the diagnosis of GLA. The characteristic imaging findings play an essential role to rule out other possible diagnoses and raise the possibility of GLA.

The extensive use of antifungal drugs and their resistance against fungal infections have led to develop novel antimicrobial compounds. In this research, 14 new pyranopyrazole compounds (D1-D14) which were synthesized before, screened for antimicrobial activity. These compounds consist of a pyranopyrazole scaffold with a phenyl substitution at the 4-position of the pyran ring. Antimicrobial evaluation of the above compounds were investigated against different species of fungi, gram positive and gram negative bacteria by broth micro dilution methods as recommended by CLSI. The specific binding mode or the binding orientation of the compounds to CYP51 active site, have been also performed by molecular modeling investigations. Our results implies that some of our compounds possess desirable inhibitory activity against the tested microorganisms. Our docking study results also showed that the binding free energy values of the compounds are in agreement with the corresponding experimental activity values. By comparison the relationship between chemical structures and biological activities revealed that the presence of a withdrawing substituent at4-position of phenyl group at para position of the pyran ring enhance the antimicrobial activity.

Abstract Objectives The current study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of parasitic infections and their possible association with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), through a case–control study. Stool samples were collected from patients with IBS and healthy subjects and were examined microscopically to detect intestinal parasites. Results A total of 200 subjects were enrolled in the study including 100 patients with IBS and 100 healthy controls. The patients were selected based on the Rome III criteria. Of the 100 patients with IBS, 65 (65%) were female and 35 (35%) were male, with a mean age of 42.57 (± 4.07) years. Of these, 30 (30%) were infected with at least one intestinal parasite; the most common ones were Blastocystis hominis and Giardia lamblia. Of the control cases, 64 (64%) were female and 36 (36%) were male, with a mean age of 41.82 (± 11.75) years. Of these, 16 (16%) were infected with at least one intestinal parasite; the most common were B. hominis and Endolimax. There was a significant difference between the rate of parasitic infections between the patients with IBS and the control in particular, B. hominis and G. lamblia. The findings of the study support a possible link between parasitic infections and IBS.

The relationship between drug and its side effects has been outlined in two websites: Sider and WebMD. The aim of this study was to find the association between drug and its side effects. We compared the reports of typical users of a web site called: “Ask a patient” website with reported drug side effects in reference sites such as Sider and WebMD. In addition, the typical users’ comments on highly-commented drugs (Neurotic drugs, Anti-Pregnancy drugs and Gastrointestinal drugs) were analyzed, using deep learning method. To this end, typical users’ comments on drugs' side effects, during last decades, were collected from the website “Ask a patient”. Then, the data on drugs were classified based on deep learning model (HAN) and the drugs’ side effect. And the main topics of side effects for each group of drugs were identified and reported, through Sider and WebMD websites. Our model demonstrates its ability to accurately describe and label side effects in a temporal text corpus by a deep learning classifier which is shown to be an effective method to precisely discover the association between drugs and their side effects. Moreover, this model has the capability to immediately locate information in reference sites to recognize the side effect of new drugs, applicable for drug companies. This study suggests that the sensitivity of internet users and the diverse scientific findings are for the benefit of distinct detection of adverse effects of drugs, and deep learning would facilitate it.

In this paper, a new series of isatin-sulphonamide based derivatives were designed, synthesised and evaluated as caspase inhibitors. The compounds containing 1-(pyrrolidinyl)sulphonyl and 2-(phenoxymethyl)pyrrolidin-1-yl)sulphonyl substitution at C5 position of isatin core exhibited better results compared to unsubstituted derivatives. According to the results of caspase inhibitory activity, compound 20d showed moderate inhibitory activity against caspase-3 and −7 in vitro compared to Ac-DEVD-CHO (IC50 = 0.016 ± 0.002 μM). Among the studied compounds, some active inhibitors with IC50s in the range of 2.33–116.91 μM were identified. The activity of compound 20d was rationalised by the molecular modelling studies exhibiting the additional van der Waals interaction of N-phenylacetamide substitution along with efficacious T-shaped π-π and pi-cation interactions. The introduction of compound 20d with good caspase inhibitory activity will help researchers to find more potent agents.

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.