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Abstract Lack of bone volume to place dental implants is frequently a problem in the reconstruction of edentulous patients. Even though autografts are the gold standard for jaw regeneration, morbidity associated with the harvesting site stimulates the demand for other substitutes. The aim of this study is to characterize the incorporation and the osteogenic ability of a viable cryopreserved human bone graft (VC-HBG) in the mandibular augmentation in rats. Bone chips from fresh human vertebrae cadaveric donors were processed, cryoprotected and deep-frozen at − 80 °C maintaining its cell viability. A jaw augmentation model was used in 20 athymic nude rats allocated into 2 groups to either receive the VC-HBG or an acellular graft as control (A-HBG). The assessment of the grafts' incorporation was performed at 4 and 8 weeks by micro-CT, histomorphometry and immunohistochemistry. Bone volume gain was significantly higher for the VC-HBG group at both time points. At 4 weeks, the A-HBG group presented significantly higher mineral density, but at 8 weeks, the VC-HBG group showed significantly higher values than the A-HBG. There was no statistical difference between VC-HBG and A-HBG groups at 4-weeks for remaining graft particles, while at 8 weeks, the VC-HBG group showed significantly less graft remnants. Collagen I, osteopontin and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase expression were significantly higher in the VC-HBG group at both time points, while osteocalcin expression was significantly higher in the VC-HBG group at 8-weeks compared to the A-HBG group. This experimental research demonstrated that the VC-HBG shows positive osteogenic properties, greater bone formation, higher rate of bone remodeling and a better overall incorporation in rats' mandibles compared to the A-HBG.

The paper presents the results of a comprehensive study of the structural-phase composition, morphology, optical, luminescent, and scintillation characteristics of thick ZnO films fabricated by magnetron sputtering. By using a hot ceramic target, extremely rapid growth (~50 µm/h) of ZnO microfilms more than 100 µm thick was performed, which is an advantage for the industrial production of scintillation detectors. The effects of post-growth treatment of the fabricated films in low-temperature plasma were studied and a significant improvement in their crystalline and optical quality was shown. As a result, the films exhibit intense near-band-edge luminescence in the near-UV region with a decay time of 550 nm) green-yellow emission originates mainly from bulk parts of the films.

Background: Azerbaijan is an upper middle-income country in South Caucasus with an area of 86,600 km 2 and a total population of 10 million people and gross domestic product of US $4480 per capita. The aim of this research is to estimate fungal infection burden and highlight the problem at national and international levels. Methods: Fungal infection burden was estimated using data from epidemiological papers and population at risk and LIFE (Leading International Fungal Education) modelling. Results: The number of people living with human immunodeficiency virus (PLHIV) in 2018 was 6193, 29% of them not receiving antiretroviral therapy. Based on 90% and 20% rates of oral and oesophageal candidiasis in patients with CD4 cell count

Moringa is multipurpose promising tree particularly for medicinal use. With its high nutritive and pharmaceutical values, every part of the tree is suitable for human consumptions. The use of vegetate parts, seeds or extracts requires toxicological evaluations to prove and verify safety uses before being added to pharmaceutical medicine, or any other products related to human diet. In this study, Moringa peregrina seeds, grown in high elevation mountain in Saint Catherin area, were investigated and evaluated for their toxicity with respect to its topological potential through histological and biochemical studies in Albino rats. Daily doses of 0, 500, 1000 and 2000 mg/kg body weight of dry seed of M. peregrina were administered orally to 4 groups of rats for 14 days. Biochemical and histopathological results were evaluated by standard methods. Measured biochemical parameters, insulin, albumin, total protein, creatinine, urea, uric acid, Follicle-stimulating hormone, Luteinizing hormone and Testosterone, revealed normal levels compared to control group. However, measured level of blood sugars, cholesterol, triglyceride and liver enzyme, displayed significant decreases. No histopathological changes were detected in the body tested organs. In consequences, intake of different doses of M. peregrina, even high one, exhibit no organ toxicity and are safe for human use. Keywords: Histopathological studies, Biochemical studies, Moringa peregrina, Toxicological evaluation

Functionalized glutathione on chitosan-genipin cross-linked beads (CS-GG) was synthesized and tested as an adsorbent for the removal of Fe(II) and Cu(II) from aqueous solution. The beads were characterized by several techniques, including Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), CNS elementary analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and atomic force microscopy (AFM). The effect of several parameters such as the pH, the temperature, and the contact time was tested to optimize the condition for the adsorption reaction. The beads were incubated in aqueous solutions contaminated with different concentrations of Fe(II) and Cu(II) (under the range concentration from 10 to 400 mg·L−1), and the adsorption capacity was evaluated by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES). The adsorption equilibrium was reached after 120 min of incubation under optimal pH 5 for Fe(II) and after 180 min under optimal pH 6 for Cu(II). According to the Langmuir isotherm, the maximum adsorption capacities (qmax) for Fe(II) and Cu(II) were 208 mg·g−1 and 217 mg·g−1, respectively. Our results showed that the adsorption efficiency of both metals on CS-GG beads was correlated with the degree of temperature. In addition, the adsorption reaction was spontaneous and endothermic, indicated by the positive values of ΔG0 and ΔH0. Therefore, the present study demonstrated that the new synthesized CS-GG beads had a strong adsorption capacity for Fe(II) and Cu(II) and were efficient to remove these trace metals from aqueous solution.

A critical hurdle in ant venom proteomic investigations is the lack of databases to comprehensively and specifically identify the sequence and function of venom proteins and peptides. To resolve this, we used venom gland transcriptomics to generate a sequence database that was used to assign the tandem mass spectrometry (MS) fragmentation spectra of venom peptides and proteins to specific transcripts. This was performed alongside a shotgun liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) analysis of the venom to confirm that these assigned transcripts were expressed as proteins. Through the combined transcriptomic and proteomic investigation of Paraponera clavata venom, we identified four times the number of proteins previously identified using 2D-PAGE alone. In addition to this, by mining the transcriptomic data, we identified several novel peptide sequences for future pharmacological investigations, some of which conform with inhibitor cysteine knot motifs. These types of peptides have the potential to be developed into pharmaceutical or bioinsecticide peptides.

Ants (Formicidae) represent a taxonomically diverse group of hymenopterans with over 13,000 extant species, the majority of which inject or spray secretions from a venom gland. The evolutionary success of ants is mostly due to their unique eusociality that has permitted them to develop complex collaborative strategies, partly involving their venom secretions, to defend their nest against predators, microbial pathogens, ant competitors, and to hunt prey. Activities of ant venom include paralytic, cytolytic, haemolytic, allergenic, pro-inflammatory, insecticidal, antimicrobial, and pain-producing pharmacologic activities, while non-toxic functions include roles in chemical communication involving trail and sex pheromones, deterrents, and aggregators. While these diverse activities in ant venoms have until now been largely understudied due to the small venom yield from ants, modern analytical and venomic techniques are beginning to reveal the diversity of toxin structure and function. As such, ant venoms are distinct from other venomous animals, not only rich in linear, dimeric and disulfide-bonded peptides and bioactive proteins, but also other volatile and non-volatile compounds such as alkaloids and hydrocarbons. The present review details the unique structures and pharmacologies of known ant venom proteinaceous and alkaloidal toxins and their potential as a source of novel bioinsecticides and therapeutic agents.

Abstract Background Malnutrition, wasting, and obesity among children under 6 years old pose a serious global health concern, increasing the risk of various infectious and non-infectious diseases. Therefore, regular monitoring of these conditions is crucial. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of malnutrition in children under 6 years of age from 2018 to 2023. Method This cross-sectional study was conducted on children under 6 years old who were referred to the urban and rural health centres in south Iran for routine health care. The researchers extracted the data from the health electronic records (SIB system) from 2018 to 2023. Results This study showed the average prevalence of overweight and obesity is 20%, underweight and severe underweight is 4.9%, wasting and severe wasting is 7.4%, and stunted and severe shortness is 3.8%, 2018–2023. The average annual percentage change of severe wasting was 8.9% (95% CI 0.1% to 18.6%), underweight and severely underweight 5.7% (1.4–10.3) during the study years. The decreasing trend of stunted, particularly severe stunted, − 1.1% (− 0.7–5.2), the probability of overweight − 1.6% (95% CI − 4.7–1.5), and obesity − 1.1% (95% CI − 7–5.2) was seen. Conclusion This study revealed a higher prevalence of overweight and obesity than previously reported, although the annual percentage change remained relatively stable. In contrast, a significant increase in underweight and wasting was observed over the past 5 years. Consequently, healthcare managers and policymakers should prioritize interventions to address these trends.

Abstract Background Childhood malnutrition remains a critical public health challenge in low- and middle-income countries, contributing significantly to morbidity and mortality among children aged 2–5 years. This study was undertaken to assess the nutritional status of 2–5 y children and to explore the main determinants of child malnutrition in eight food insecure provinces of Iran. Methods In each province, participants were invited to attend the health house/center to complete the questionnaire on the pre-appointed day. In this study, an android application comprising electronic questionnaires was employed for data collection. Anthropometric, dietary, food security and socioeconomic status (SES) assessments were performed. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was done to assess the structural relationship of malnutrition indicators (z-score of height to age (HAZ), z-score of weight to age (WAZ) and z-score of weight to height (WHZ)) with other variables. Results Overall, 2247 children aged 42.2 ± 0.3 months were enrolled in the study, of whom 1048 (46.6%) were female and 1438 (64%) were urban residents. Based on Z score criteria, 216 (10.1%) of the studied children had less than − 2SD HAZ, 193 (8.4%) had lower than − 2SD WHZ and 188 (8.1%) had lower than − 2SD WAZ. The prevalence rates of stunting, wasting and underweight were not significantly different between boys and girls. Nevertheless, the occurrence of stunting was significantly higher in children residing in rural than in urban areas (p = 0.025). SEM analysis revealed that higher SES had a positive relationship with HAZ (0.089), WAZ (0.163) and WHZ (0.109). The effect of SES was greatest on WAZ, indicated by the highest absolute value of a path coefficient. There were specific indirect effects of father’s education on HAZ (0.032, p = 0.001), WHZ (0.045,

Summary: Background: COVID-19 is a newly emerging pathogen responsible for respiratory infections and has caused high morbidity and mortality globally. To date, there is no effective treatment protocol for this virus. Objectives: The current study has reviewed the probable mechanisms involved in relation between probiotic supplementation and corona virus disease. It also has found the most beneficial strains of probiotic in this regard. Methods: Major search engines such as Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, Medline, and Google Scholar have been used for searching English papers and SID, Magiran, and IranMedex for Persian language papers through keywords such as COVID-19, corona virus, probiotic, clinical trials since early 2020 until the end of 2023. Next, we manually reviewed the contents of these articles. Inclusion criteria included clinical trials on both sexes without any comorbidity. Results: Based on the clinical trials that were assessed in this review, we found that probiotics decrease fever, cough, nasal congestion, shortness of breath and diarrhea in patients with corona virus disease. Furthermore, remission and modification of main symptoms of disease occur sooner in patients who receive oral bacterio therapy compared to those who receive only drug regimen. It also seems that probiotic supplementation not only can reduce requirement to use mechanical ventilation in patients, but also decrease the mortality rate caused by disease. One of the interesting findings of this review is that the most beneficial effects of bacterio therapy, could be attributed to Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus genus. Conclusions: Consuming probiotics against coronavirus seems promising in prevention and treatment. Probiotics' health and safety benefits have been confirmed, including their role in fighting certain viral infections. Further research is needed to confirm their appropriate performance as a new approach to remission COVID-19 viruses.

Background and Purpose: Onychomycosis is a common nail infection characterized by the discoloration, thickening, and detachment of nails. This study aimed to provide valuable insights into this pathology by assessing its prevalence, clinical aspects, related comorbidities, and causative agents in patients from a Moroccan population.Materials and Methods: This retrospective study was conducted on 1,606 subjects at the Mycology-Parasitology laboratory of the National Institute of Hygiene in Rabat, Morocco, over five years (2016-2020). Nail samples were collected from both fingernails and toenails and processed through microscopic examination and culture. The incubated tubes were kept at a temperature range of 28-30°C for 4-5 weeks.Results: Onychomycosis was mycologically confirmed in 1,794 samples (93.24%). It occurred commonly in the 41-60 age group, with a higher incidence among females (74.53%). Diabetes, alongside other chronic diseases, was prevalent among patients with underlying conditions, comprising 131 cases (40.56%). Disto-lateral subungual onychomycosis emerged as the most prevalent clinical presentation, comprising 1,536 cases (79.92%). Fingernails primarily affected by yeasts, notably Candida albicans, accounted for 565 cases (29.80%), while toenails were predominantly impacted by dermatophytes, primarily Trichophyton rubrum (n=1,230, 64.87%). Mixed infections exclusively featured yeasts and dermatophytes, predominantly T. rubrum and C. albicans, which accounted for 79 (4.40%) cases. The study explored the influence of molds, yielding insights into their rarity in onychomycosis.Conclusion: These findings hold significant implications for the clinical management and diagnosis of onychomycosis, particularly in patients with underlying chronic conditions. Further epidemiological studies across Morocco are needed for meaningful comparisons.

Objective: To evaluate the effect of Grifola frondosa polysaccharides (GFP) in a rat model of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Methods: Seventy-five rats were divided into five groups: the normal control group and the AD group treated with or without GFP (100, 200, and 400 mg/kg). Behavioral responses in the open field test and elevated plus maze test were assessed. Additionally, the levels of malondialdehyde and ferric-reducing ability of plasma, and the mRNA expressions of TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β in the hippocampus were measured. Results: Treatment with GFP significantly improved AD-induced behavioral changes in the open field test and elevated plus maze test (P < 0.05). In addition, the level of malondialdehyde and the mRNA expressions of TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β were decreased by GFP treatment in a dose-dependent manner in AD rats (P < 0.05), while the level of ferric-reducing ability of plasma was significantly increased (P < 0.05). Conclusions: Oral administration of GFP can reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, as well as improve behavioral responses associated with AD, suggesting its potential use in AD treatment. However, additional studies are needed to elucidate its underlying mechanisms and efficacy.

Abstract The p53 protein, encoded by the TP53 gene, serves as a critical tumor suppressor, playing a vital role in maintaining genomic stability and regulating cellular responses to stress. Dysregulation of p53 is frequently observed in hematological malignancies, significantly impacting disease progression and patient outcomes. This review aims to examine the regulatory mechanisms of p53, the implications of TP53 mutations in various hematological cancers, and emerging therapeutic strategies targeting p53. We conducted a comprehensive literature review to synthesize recent findings related to p53's multifaceted role in hematologic cancers, focusing on its regulatory pathways and therapeutic potential. TP53 mutations in hematological malignancies often lead to treatment resistance and poor prognosis. Current therapeutic strategies, including p53 reactivation and gene therapy, show promise in improving treatment outcomes. Understanding the intricacies of p53 regulation and the consequences of its mutations is essential for developing effective diagnostic and therapeutic strategies in hematological malignancies, ultimately enhancing patient care and survival.

Introduction: In postmodern art, the body has been a focal point as a subject, medium, and tool for artistic creation, as well as a site for experiencing and perceiving art. Scholars in the humanities have challenged conventional definitions of the body, and artists have visually depicted these new interpretations. One postmodern approach to body representation in painting is the depiction of fragmented bodies and disembodied limbs. This study aims to explain the theoretical origins of the emergence of disembodied limbs in Iranian paintings of the late 14th century A.H. and the semantic implications of this visual fragmentation. The research seeks to answer the question: “What is the reference for depicting disembodied limbs in 1990s Iranian paintings, and what themes do these visual representations convey”?Methodology: This qualitative research employs a descriptive-analytical method based on documentary data. From the statistical population, which includes paintings by Iranian artists featuring fragmented bodies or disembodied limbs from the 1990s, samples that primarily depict disembodied limbs were selected and analyzed based on the theoretical foundations of the study.Findings: The decentralization of the body’s unity in the research samples does not refer to disability, physical suffering, or death. Instead, it signifies abstract concepts such as transformation and metamorphosis, challenging classical definitions of the body, social critique, expressions of mental and metaphysical states, and recollecting a lost past that exists only in memory.Conclusion: The emergence of disembodied limbs in 1990s Iranian paintings is influenced by postmodern rationality and a shift in human perspectives towards the external and internal worlds. By defamiliarizing conventional methods of body representation, painters create a space for critiquing and challenging predetermined thought patterns and generating new concepts that reflect the human condition in the contemporary era.

Summary: Background: Based on available data, acarbose may have an effect on body weight reduction. Nevertheless, the results were inconsistent and inconclusive. Therefore, the purpose of this review and meta-analysis of randomized placebo-controlled trials (RCTs) was to assess the existing data as thoroughly as possible. Methods: The relevant keywords were used to search the online databases to identify RCTs that examined the effect of acarbose on body weight, body mass index (BMI), and waist circumference (WC) up to April 2023. A random-effects model was applied to examine the weighted mean difference (WMD) and 95% confidence interval (CI). Results: Seventy-one RCTs with 73 effect sizes were included in this meta-analytic work. The effect sizes for body weight, BMI, and WC were 45, 47, and 9, respectively. The pooled analysis demonstrated significant decrease in body weight (WMD = −1.21 kg; 95%CI, −1.67, −0.75; p

Antibiotic resistance remains a critical challenge for public health. In this study, we investigate the antibacterial potential of Moroccan Allium sativum L. essential oil (EO) through both in vitro and in silico approaches. The EO was extracted using hydrodistillation, and its physicochemical properties were analyzed alongside its chemical composition via gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS). We assessed antibacterial efficacy through disk diffusion assays targeting Escherichia coli (E. coli), methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa), and determined the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) values. Finally, an in silico molecular docking analysis and ADMET (absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity) prediction were performed. Our analysis identified 13 sulfur-based compounds within the EO, with diallyl disulfide (42.85 %), methylallyl disulfide (18.84 %), methylallyl trisulfide (15.38 %), and diallyl trisulfide (13.11 %) as major constituents. The EO demonstrated robust activity against MRSA, with an inhibition zone of 22 mm and an MIC of 0.75 mg/mL, whereas E. coli exhibited lower sensitivity, with an MIC of 1.51 mg/mL. Molecular docking analysis suggested that the primary sulfur compounds may effectively inhibit bacterial resistance-related enzymes. These findings highlight the potential of Allium sativum L. EO as a natural antibacterial agent, attributed largely to its sulfur compound content. This activity is likely linked with the EO's interaction with the complex structures of bacterial cell membranes, offering promise in combating resistant bacterial strains.

Glanzmann’s thrombasthenia (GT) is a rare genetic platelet disorder that leads to bleeding problems in affected individuals. We present a 28-year-old woman with GT who experienced a rare symptom of painless gross hematuria in the last month of pregnancy. To provide the best care, an interdisciplinary approach was followed by a team of obstetricians and gynecologists, hematologists, neonatologists, and anesthesiologists. The IUGR fetus was delivered by cesarean section and had mild acidosis and thrombocytopenia at birth. Both the baby and the mother were carefully cared for and treated. Hematuria also improved spontaneously within two weeks after delivery. Gross hematuria during pregnancy rarely occurs due to the pressure of the presenting part of the fetus on the mother’s bladder (due to engagement). Aggravation of any clinical symptoms in pregnant women with GT should alert maternal and fetal health care providers to make individualized decisions.

Abstract Aims L-carnitine plays a role related to cardiometabolic factors, but its effectiveness and safety in CVD are still unknown. We aim to assess the effect of L-carnitine supplementation on CVD risk factors. Methods A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus until October 2022. The main outcomes were lipid profiles, anthropometric parameters, insulin resistance, serum glucose levels, leptin, blood pressure, and inflammatory markers. The pooled weighted mean difference (WMD) was calculated using a random-effects model. Results We included the 21 RCTs (n = 2900) with 21 effect sizes in this study. L-carnitine supplementation had a significant effect on TG (WMD = − 13.50 mg/dl, p = 0.039), LDL (WMD = − 12.66 mg/dl, p

Abstract Background The purpose of this study is to investigate the impact of social media-based microlearning (SMBM) on enhancing the knowledge, self-care, and self-efficacy behaviors of patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) receiving care at a hospital-based diabetes clinic in Zahedan, Iran. Methods This intervention study was conducted from September 2021 to the end of 2022, with an intervention group (SMBM) and a control group (conventional-based training) consisting of patients with T2D. A total of 80 eligible patients were selected using a convenience sampling method and randomly assigned to either the intervention group (n = 40) or the control group (n = 40). The knowledge level, self-care, and self-efficacy of the samples were assessed before and two weeks after the educational intervention. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS version 24, and independent and paired T-tests were used for analysis. Results The results of the study revealed that after the intervention, the levels of knowledge, self-care, and self-efficacy in the intervention group were significantly higher than those in the control group (p-value

Resistance exercise leads to the stimulation of muscle protein synthesis, known as exercise-induced muscle hypertrophy. Several hormonal and nutritional factors, directly or indirectly impacting cellular pathways activated by exercise, influence muscle protein synthesis. Among these, acute and chronic alcohol consumption disrupts the balance between anabolic and catabolic mechanisms and affects muscles and heart activity in a different process. However, there is uncertainty regarding the precise mechanisms involved. This systematic review discusses the effects of alcohol consumption on muscle protein synthesis and degradation with emphasis on the hypertrophy pathway of mTOR and hormones involved in exercise-induced muscle protein synthesis. For this purpose, comprehensive searches were performed in Pubmed, Google Scholar, and Web of Science regarding the impact of alcohol consumption on protein synthesis processes, with an emphasis on the mTOR pathway in skeletal muscle following resistance exercise, in the time frame of 2010 to 2024. The following keywords were used to search in the title and keywords: protein synthesis, alcohol, ethanol, skeletal muscle, mTOR signaling, resistance exercise, and hypertrophy. After reviewing the articles, a total of 71 articles were selected for the current review. Previous studies indicate a decrease in growth hormone, testosterone, and insulin-like growth factor along with a negative effect on mTOR due to acute alcohol consumption, which ultimately leading to reduced hypertrophy. 15-20% decrease in basal protein synthesis in skeletal muscle is observed twenty-four hours after alcohol consumption, mostly in type II fibers, and particularly in type IIx fibers, which provide the greatest response to muscular hypertrophy after regular exercise. Chronic alcohol consumption also increases cortisol levels and activates the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway, leading to the activation of atrophic pathways and subsequent muscle mass reduction. Over consumption of alcohol is associated with a 50% prevalence of alcoholic myopathy, which also causes abnormal hypertrophy and diastolic dysfunction in the left ventricle of the heart. Chronic alcohol consumption leads to cardiomyopathy or structural and functional abnormalities of the cardiac muscle. Therefore, considering that alcohol can have negative effects on muscle protein synthesis even up to one day after consumption and disrupt hypertrophic signaling pathways, can have an effect on cardiovascular health, and athletes need to be aware of the detrimental effects and consequences. Understanding the negative effects of alcohol on these physiological processes is crucial for promoting a healthy lifestyle and optimizing exercise outcomes in health and sports.

Background and aims: Apical patency (AP), a technique in endodontics, involves keeping a small opening in the apical foramen during root canal instrumentation. However, there has been a debate about its effect on postoperative pain. To clarify this issue, this systematic review aimed to study the literature and determine the impact of AP on postoperative pain after endodontic procedures. Methods: A systematic search was conducted across multiple databases, including PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library, up to November 2, 2023. Studies on the relationship between AP and postoperative pain in endodontic treatments were included in this research. Relevant articles were independently screened, and data were extracted based on our study aims. Results: Eleven randomized controlled trial studies met the inclusion criteria. The findings indicated that among the included studies, six demonstrated no differences between the AP and non-AP (NAP) groups in terms of postoperative pain scores. In addition, four studies reported a decrease in operative pain in the AP group compared to the NAP group, and only one study showed that AP increases postoperative pain. However, conflicting evidence was observed in a subset of studies; there were no significant differences between the AP and NAP groups in terms of the postoperative pain scores. Conclusion: Compared with NAP, AP does not intensify the postoperative pain in teeth with vital and necrotic pulp.

Congenital toxoplasmosis in Morocco, and other middle-income countries, remains challenging due to high cost and potential toxicity of existing treatment, limiting their widespread application. This highlights the urgent need for affordable, safe and accessible alternatives. Plants used in traditional medicine and purchased in markets are good candidates. Aqueous extract of Ammi visnaga seeds had no inhibitory effect against T. gondii tachyzoites in vitro (50% inhibitory concentration, IC50 = 679.6 ± 243.6 µg/mL) and induced a cytotoxic effect on host cells (50% cytotoxic concentration, CC50 = 313.3 ± 357.6 µg/mL). Ethanolic extract of A. visnaga seeds showed anti-Toxoplasma effect (IC50 = 192.3 ± 70.2 µg/mL) with low cytotoxicity (CC50 = 515.9 ± 312.0 µg/mL), indicating that different compounds were extracted. Aqueous extracts of Punica granatum peel and Syzygium aromaticum flower buds showed anti-Toxoplasma effect (IC50 = 413.5 ± 271.4 and 473.5 ± 196.0 µg/mL, respectively) with low cytotoxicity (CC50 = 1007.4 ± 286.3 and 985.6 ± 388.6 µg/mL, respectively). All extracts, particularly of A. visnaga, induced apoptosis-like in tachyzoites, characterized by phosphatidylserine exposure and DNA fragmentation. Finally, the aqueous extracts of A. visnaga seeds, P. granatum peel and S. aromaticum flower buds exhibited antioxidant properties. The observed effects are likely due to coumarins and sterols (A. visnaga aqueous extract), saponins (A. visnaga ethanolic extract), gallic tannins (P. granatum extract), and phenols (S. aromaticum extract). P. granatum peel show promise as potential preclinical candidates for the toxoplasmosis treatment, warranting further investigation into its potential for safe and effective therapeutic use.

Neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) are a class of neurological disorders marked by the progressive loss of neurons that afflict millions of people worldwide. These illnesses affect brain connection, impairing memory, cognition, behavior, sensory perception, and motor function. Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and Huntington's diseases are examples of common NDDs, which frequently include the buildup of misfolded proteins. Cognitive-behavioral impairments are early markers of neurodevelopmental disorders, emphasizing the importance of early detection and intervention. Neurotrophins such as brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) are critical for neuron survival and synaptic plasticity, which is required for learning and memory. NDDs have been associated with decreased BDNF levels. Physical exercise, a non-pharmacological intervention, benefits brain health by increasing BDNF levels, lowering cognitive deficits, and slowing brain degradation. Exercise advantages include increased well-being, reduced depression, improved cognitive skills, and neuroprotection by lowering amyloid accumulation, oxidative stress, and neuroinflammation. This study examines the effects of physical exercise on cognitive-behavioral deficits and BDNF levels in the limbic system impacted by neurodegeneration. The findings highlight the necessity of including exercise into NDD treatment to improve brain structure, function, and total BDNF levels. As research advances, exercise is becoming increasingly acknowledged as an important technique for treating cognitive decline and neurodegenerative disorders.

ABSTRACT Objectives: to assess the association between indicators of emotional distress and dispositional mindfulness in health students at a Brazilian federal public university. Methods: a cross-sectional study, developed with university students in the health area of a public institution from May to June 2022. In the analysis, multiple linear regression was used using SPSS software. Results: the sample was mostly female, ≤ 22 years old, non-white, studying the first semesters, with a higher prevalence for the medicine course. Students presented moderate dispositional mindfulness scores. It was observed that the variables of stress, depression and current suicide risk were associated with the capacity for mindfulness. Conclusions: knowing the indicators of emotional distress that are related to the potential of mindfulness can contribute as a situational diagnosis to better design strategies that promote the improvement of emotional indicators of health students.

BackgroundThe COVID-19 pandemic, which emerged in late 2019, influenced nearly all aspects of human life, including food choices and dietary habits.MethodologyA web-based search was conducted from March to April 2024 in MEDLINE/PubMed, CINAHL, Embase, and the Cochrane Library for published reports of large-scale surveys of dietary changes during or shortly after the coronavirus pandemic lockdown in Iran. The keywords used were coronavirus OR COVID-19, diet OR nutrition, household, and Iran. Studies that focused on specific areas, subgroups (such as students), or just one city or province were not included. To monitor dietary changes from the years before the lockdown, we used and plotted data from the Household Income and Expenditure Survey (HIES), as provided by the Statistical Center of Iran.ResultsThe overall results of the nationwide studies conducted during the lockdown period in Iran revealed that a significant proportion of the households reduced their consumption of milk, yogurt, cheese, red meat, white meat, eggs, and rice/bread. In approximately 47% of the households where weekly consumption of animal protein sources decreased, the consumption of rice and bread increased. Accordingly, 35 and 44% of households reported a decrease in the consumption frequency of fruits and snacks, respectively. Additionally, 21% of those who reduced their fruit consumption completely removed fruits from their food basket. Meanwhile, the use of dietary supplements, especially vitamin D, vitamin C, zinc, and multivitamins, had increased in households, particularly among those with higher incomes. Decreased income was a common reason for all of these dietary changes, which can have major health consequences in the long term.ConclusionThis review provides evidence that the observed changes had already begun years before the pandemic and presumably have not yet returned to the pre-pandemic situation. Finally, we suggest some strategies for policymakers to overcome the crisis and enhance community the nutrition and health of general population.

Objetivo: descrever as estratégias utilizadas para enfrentar as adversidades decorrentes da pandemia da COVID-19 pelos profissionais de enfermagem brasileiros e compreender suas experiências e sentimentos resultantes desse contexto. Métodos: estudo misto, do tipo paraleloconvergente, realizado com amostragem não probabilística com 1737 enfermeiros de diferentes regiões do Brasil, por questionário virtual, sobre dados sociodemográficos e o Inventário de Estratégias de Coping de Folkman e Lazarus. As variáveis associadas ao estudo foram verificadas por análise bivariada. Os dados qualitativos foram discutidos por meio da Análise de Conteúdo Temático-Categorial. Resultados: na fase quantitativa, as estratégias de coping mais utilizadas pelos enfermeiros foram a Reavaliação positiva (1,26±0,62), a Resolução de problemas (1,14±0,56) e o Autocontrole (1,14±0,56). Verificou-se também uma comparação significativa entre as estratégias Apoio Social (1,01±0,53), Distanciamento (0,89±0,50), Aceitação da responsabilidade (0,86±0,65), Fuga/Evitação (0,85±0,56) e Confrontação (0,85±0,65). Os profissionais atribuíram a motivação para seguir em frente, o apoio coletivo para lidar com situações de stress e a responsabilidade de cumprir as suas obrigações profissionais mesmo quando enfrentam uma carga de trabalho elevada. Conclusões: a maioria dos profissionais de enfermagem utilizou estratégias funcionais para enfrentar os problemas no contexto da pandemia. A utilização das estratégias não exclui a disponibilização de espaço para discussão das dificuldades relacionadas ao cotidiano de trabalho desses profissionais.

Objetivo: descrever as estratégias utilizadas para enfrentar as adversidades decorrentes da pandemia da COVID-19 pelos profissionais de enfermagem brasileiros e compreender suas experiências e sentimentos resultantes desse contexto. Métodos: estudo misto, do tipo paraleloconvergente, realizado com amostragem não probabilística com 1737 enfermeiros de diferentes regiões do Brasil, por questionário virtual, sobre dados sociodemográficos e o Inventário de Estratégias de Coping de Folkman e Lazarus. As variáveis associadas ao estudo foram verificadas por análise bivariada. Os dados qualitativos foram discutidos por meio da Análise de Conteúdo Temático-Categorial. Resultados: na fase quantitativa, as estratégias de coping mais utilizadas pelos enfermeiros foram a Reavaliação positiva (1,26±0,62), a Resolução de problemas (1,14±0,56) e o Autocontrole (1,14±0,56). Verificou-se também uma comparação significativa entre as estratégias Apoio Social (1,01±0,53), Distanciamento (0,89±0,50), Aceitação da responsabilidade (0,86±0,65), Fuga/Evitação (0,85±0,56) e Confrontação (0,85±0,65). Os profissionais atribuíram a motivação para seguir em frente, o apoio coletivo para lidar com situações de stress e a responsabilidade de cumprir as suas obrigações profissionais mesmo quando enfrentam uma carga de trabalho elevada. Conclusões: a maioria dos profissionais de enfermagem utilizou estratégias funcionais para enfrentar os problemas no contexto da pandemia. A utilização das estratégias não exclui a disponibilização de espaço para discussão das dificuldades relacionadas ao cotidiano de trabalho desses profissionais.

This research focuses on the enhancement of the tribological behavior of commercial pure titanium (Cp-Ti) in a simulated body fluid (SBF) via surface reinforcement by titanium borides. The protective boride coatings were formed through the pack cementation process at two different temperatures (950 and 1050 °C) to create diverse hard compositions of TiB and TiB–TiB2 in the coating, with hardness of 1032 and 1291 Hv, respectively. The roughness and wettability of top surfaces were evaluated before the tribology studies due to their impacts on the tribology behavior. Box-Behnken design (BBD) was applied to investigate the effects of the wear parameters in dry and SBF environments. The duration of the wear tests was 53, 35, and 26 min for low, medium, and high speed. It was found that the abrasion wear type was dominant at the beginning of sliding, and then changed to the plastic deformation in the dry conditions, while there is no sign of the abrasion and adhesion wear features at the surface of the reinforced samples abraded in the SBF solution. Results confirmed a high coincidence between BBD predictions and actual findings. The released debris from the coatings was also investigated to find origins. Results showed that majority of the debris in the SBF solution belonged to the calcium phosphate particles demonstrating the bioactivity of the TiB–TiB2 coatings. According to findings, hard TiB–TiB2 coatings could significantly improve the tribological behavior of the Ti implants, which could in turn result in expanding the biological application of Cp-Ti.

Abstract Mesenchymal stromal/stem cells (MSCs) are used in many studies due to their therapeutic potential, including their differentiative ability and immunomodulatory properties. These cells perform their therapeutic functions by using various mechanisms, such as the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines, growth factors, direct cell-to-cell contact, extracellular vesicles (EVs) production, and mitochondrial transfer. However, mechanisms related to immune checkpoints (ICPs) and their effect on the immunomodulatory ability of MSCs are less discussed. The main function of ICPs is to prevent the initiation of unwanted responses and to regulate the immune system responses to maintain the homeostasis of these responses. ICPs are produced by various types of immune system regulatory cells, and defects in their expression and function may be associated with excessive responses that can ultimately lead to autoimmunity. Also, by expressing different types of ICPs and their ligands (ICPLs), tumor cells prevent the formation and durability of immune responses, which leads to tumors' immune escape. ICPs and ICPLs can be produced by MSCs and affect immune cell responses both through their secretion into the microenvironment or direct cell-to-cell interaction. Pre-treatment of MSCs in inflammatory conditions leads to an increase in their therapeutic potential. In addition to the effect that inflammatory environments have on the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines by MSCs, they can increase the expression of various types of ICPLs. In this review, we discuss different types of ICPLs and ICPs expressed by MSCs and their effect on their immunomodulatory and therapeutic potential.

Purpose: Mental disorders account for a large part of the burden of disease in young population. The present study aimed to investigate the relationship between carbohydrate intakes and the risk of depression, anxiety, and stress among female adolescents. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 263 female adolescents aged 15–18 years participated. Depression, anxiety, and stress scores were determined by DASS-21 (Depression Anxiety Stress Score-21 items) questionnaire, and dietary intakes were assessed using a validated 168-item food frequency questionnaire. Crude and multivariable-adjusted odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated through logistic regression analysis. Results: Adolescents with depression consumed more glucose and sucrose and less lactose compared to adolescents without depression. After adjustment for all confounders, higher intakes of glucose and sucrose were significantly associated with increased risk of depression (OR glu = 1.3, P = 0.035 and OR suc = 1.41, P = 0.034), anxiety (OR glu = 1.3, P = 0.019 and OR suc = 1.81, P = 0.027), and stress (OR glu = 1.41, P = 0.046 and OR suc = 1.8, P = 0.044). In addition, increasing lactose intake was significantly associated with reducing the risk of depression (OR = 0.96, P = 0.013) and stress (OR = 0.96, P = 0.015). Conclusions: This study found significant associations between dietary carbohydrate intake and mental disorders among female adolescent.

BACKGROUND: Nursing education in Iran suffers from challenges such as inadequate training time, non-scientific methods, lack of facilities, and so on. Nursing students can better discuss these issues and identify variables affecting their education. Thus, this study sought to uncover factors affecting education quality from nursing students’ perspectives. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This is a qualitative study that was conducted on nursing students in 2022. Purposive sampling chose 20 undergraduate nursing students from Abadan University of Medical Sciences, Abadan, Iran. The data was acquired using a semi-structured interview. Content analysis was performed using MAXQDA-10 software to extract relevant themes. RESULTS: The factors derived from content analysis were classified into two internal and external main themes and six sub-themes, including professors, students, the university/education department, hospitals, and the educational system. CONCLUSIONS: Analyzing the strengths and weaknesses of trainers and professors in practical programs and teaching new practical teaching methods can effectively enhance the quality of nursing education. Also, giving training and welfare equipment and necessities in educational hospitals and changing the headlines and contents of some nursing courses will improve education quality.

This paper presents a biologically inspired flocking-based aggregation behaviour of a swarm of mobile robots. Aggregation behaviour is essential to many swarm systems, such as swarm robotics systems, in order to accomplish complex tasks that are impossible for a single agent. In this work, we developed a robot controller using Reynolds’ flocking rules to coordinate the movements of multiple e-puck robots during the aggregation process. To improve aggregation behaviour among these robots and address the scalability issues in current flocking-based aggregation approaches, we proposed using a K-means algorithm to identify clusters of agents. Using the developed controller, we simulated the aggregation behaviour among the swarm of robots. Five experiments were conducted using Webots simulation software. The performance of the developed system was evaluated under a variety of environments and conditions, such as various obstacles, agent failure, different numbers of robots, and arena sizes. The results of the experiments demonstrated that the proposed algorithm is robust and scalable. Moreover, we compared our proposed algorithm with another implementation of the flocking-based self-organizing aggregation behaviour based on Reynolds’ rules in a swarm of e-puck robots. Our algorithm outperformed this method in terms of cohesion performance and aggregation completion time.

In this study, nonlinear optical (NLO) properties of nitro-thieno [3,2-b] thiophene-fullerene (C20) molecule was systematically investigated using density functional theory (DFT) methods at the B3LYP level with a 6-31 + G(d,p) basis set. Fullerene (electron-donor) is associated with thieno [3,2-b] thiophene (π-conjugated bridge), forming a charge-transfer framework, and nitro is a strong electron-acceptor. The dynamic properties of the molecule, including first and second hyperpolarizability, resulting from second harmonic generation β(-2ω; ω,ω), third harmonic generation γ(– 2ω; ω, ω, ω), Pockels effect β(-ω; ω,0), and Kerr effect γ(–ω; ω, 0, 0), were investigated, which are essential evaluation indexes for creating nonlinear materials. The molecule exhibits excellent nonlinear responses, where it was found that the highest linear response of the coefficients above at the wavelength 455.6 nm. Absorption spectra reveal that these molecules have infrared transparent regions and are novel nonlinear molecules. Therefore, linking nitro-thieno[3,2-b]thiophene with fullerene (C20) efficiently designs high-performance nonlinear molecules.

Introdução: A Técnica em enfermagem exerce um papel central no bom funcionamento das salas de vacinação, tornando-se crucial conhecer a rotina desse contexto de trabalho, sob sua perspectiva. Objetivo: Compreender o cotidiano de trabalho e formação da equipe de enfermagem nas salas de vacina sob a percepção das Técnicas em Enfermagem. Métodos: Trata-se de um estudo descritivo, exploratório com abordagem qualitativa, realizado nas salas de vacina da zona urbana da região sul de Teresina-Piauí. Participaram da pesquisa 15 Técnicas em enfermagem que trabalham nas salas de vacina que foram escolhidas de forma não aleatória por conveniência. A coleta de dados aconteceu no período de julho a agosto de 2021, por meio de entrevista semiestruturada. Resultados: Os achados deste estudo demonstraram que as técnicas em enfermagem desempenham contribuições valorosas nas salas de vacina, atuando em aspectos estruturais, organizacionais, operacionais e educacionais, no que se refere a manipulação adequada de imunobiológicos e ambientação apropriada destes setores. Além disso, pode-se conhecer mais sobre a atuação da Enfermeira nas salas de vacina, delimitando-se os déficits e contribuições relacionados a supervisão desta profissional. Considerações Finais: Através deste estudo pode-se constatar que os cuidados realizados pelas Técnicas em Enfermagem estão de acordo com as orientações previstas pelo Ministério da Saúde. Entretanto, é importante que a Enfermeira atue de forma mais presente nestas salas, contribuindo para melhorar o processo de trabalho em sala de vacina.

Abstract Background Implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICD), as a gold and standard treatment for fatal cardiac arrhythmia, may lead to some physical and psychological problems for the patients. Therefore, performing some interventions to reduce or eliminate these issues is crucial. This study aimed to determine the effect of virtual interactive nurse-led support group intervention on fatigue, shock anxiety, and acceptance of ICD patients. Methods This is a clinical trial study on 72 patients with ICD. They were randomly allocated to the intervention (n = 36) and control (n = 36) groups. A virtual interactive nurse-led support group intervention through WhasApp was performed for one month. Multidimensional fatigue inventory, Florida Shock Anxiety Scale, and Florida Patient Acceptance Scale were used. Data were analyzed to perform the analysis of data through SPSS, using independent and paired-t test, Mann-Whitney U test, Wilcoxon test, and ANCOVA. Results Before the intervention, no significant difference was observed between the two groups with regard to fatigue, shock anxiety, and ICD acceptance. However, after the intervention, a significant difference was found between the two groups with regard to fatigue, shock anxiety, and ICD acceptance (P

The quest for content differentiation and audience engagement is paramount in the competitive landscape of Video-on-Demand (VOD) platforms. The paper proposes a system investigating VOD platform series data to recommend actors and themes to VOD vendors. To achieve this, we analyzed the storylines of 72 VOD movie series to extract keywords. Using these keywords, we generated a network using Social Network Analysis. By examining the network, we identified content gaps. After semantic clustering, we utilized TOPSIS to determine keywords with high centrality scores. These are a foundation for connecting peripheral keywords and generating new content. The paper’s findings suggest that the proposed content-based recommender system can help VOD platforms create innovative storylines by leveraging structural holes in a TV series content keyword graph. The study also suggests that successful directors take risks by combining different keywords from various network parts. This approach allows them to attract a wider range of audiences and increase their chances of success.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory rheumatic disease with an autoimmune component that preferentially affects the small joints of the hands and feet. Extra-articular manifestations may be associated with it. These are rather long-term complications compared to the inaugural forms of the disease.

Abstract The median lethal concentration (LC50) of unionized ammonia (NH3‐N) in longfin yellowtail, Seriola rivoliana juveniles was assessed after 96 h of exposure using a semistatic water system. Experimental fish were exposed in triplicate to different ammonia concentrations: 0.55 ± 0.00; 0.94 ± 0.02; 1.18 ± 0.00; 1.72 ± 0.02, and 1.97 ± 0.09 NH3‐N mg/L. Additionally, a control group (0.00 ± 0.00 NH3‐N mg/L) was included. The 96 h LC50 of unionized ammonia in S. rivoliana was 0.58 mg/L. Fish exposed to different ammonia concentrations for 96 h displayed several lesions on gill tissues, that is, hyperplasia, epithelial lifting, fusion of the secondary lamellae, and some irreversible damage. Erratic behavior, such as swimming in circles and hyperventilation was observed before the fish died. The safe concentration of unionized ammonia in this study was estimated at 0.06 and 1.68 mg/L of total ammonia nitrogen (TAN). The outcomes observed in this study provide valuable insights into unionized ammonia effects for better water quality management in semi‐intensive and intensive systems for S. rivoliana culture.

Background: Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is known as one of the most chronic conditions, having significant effects on physical and mental health status in infected individuals, and thus reducing their quality of life (QoL).Methods: I n t his s ystematic r eview, t he d ata w ere i nitially collected from the databases of Scopus, PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Google Scholar from January 2000 to September 2020 based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria of the study. The data were then analyzed by using the R software.Results: A total number of 25 research articles addressing the QoL in 5,952 HIV/AIDS patients were evaluated using three valid questionnaires, including the Medical Outcomes Study HIV Health Survey (MOS-HIV), the 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36), and the World Health Organization Quality of Life in HIV-Infected Persons (WHOQoL-HIV). Based on the MOS-HIV, the SF-36, and the WHOQoL-HIV questionnaires, the QoL mean scores in HIV/AIDS patients were 51.80 (49.4- 54.57), 54.81 (52.68-56.93), and 13.62 (11.97-15.26), respectively. In addition, the physical items gained a higher mean score than the mental ones in all the questionnaires. The QoL showed higher mean scores in the SF-36 and the WHOQoL-HIV questionnaires in Africa, except for the MOS-HIV questionnaire, which had the highest mean score in North America.Conclusion: Overall, the QoL in HIV/AIDS patients in this study was acceptable, even though further changes and studies are still required to support the findings.

Introduction: Serum vitamin D levels are related to a wide spectrum of factors including low sunlight exposure, high oxidative stress, low physical activity and sleep disorders. In this paper we are going to investigate the most crucial parameters associated with serum vitamin D levels in survey of ultraviolet intake by nutritional approach (SUVINA) study with a data mining approach.Material and Methods: Data including demographic, anthropometric, clinical and laboratory information were extracted from the SUVINA dataset comprising 289 subjects who were enrolled into our study. The XGBoost algorithm was used to define the most important features related to vitamin D level in our population.Results: Applying XGBoost modeling for vitamin D level showed that the presented scheme can determine the most important determinants of serum vitamin D level with an accuracy of 91%. Pro-oxidant anti-oxidant balance (PAB), body fat percentage, physical activity level (PAL), age, restless leg syndrome (RLS), and dietary inflammatory index (DII) density were the most important variables correlated with vitamin D deficiency.Conclusion: Using XGBoost and with an accuracy of more than 90%, we showed that the six most important risk factors for vitamin D deficiency are PAB, PAL, age, body fat percentage, RLS and DII density, respectively.

Abstract Background Inadequate fruits and vegetables intake is associated with several diseases. This study aimed to explore changes in fruits and snack consumption during the COVID-19-related lockdown in Iran. Methods An online cross-sectional survey among Iranian households was conducted from the 4th to 25th April 2020, during the COVID-19 lockdown. Data were collected about any changes in frequency consumption of the fruits and snacks and the reasons for the changes. Ordinal logistic regression was performed to examine which factors contributed to changes in consumption. To account for the complex sampling design and allow inferences valid for the population, sampling weights were used in all analyses. Results A total of 21,290 households took part in the survey. During the epidemic, consumption of fruits and snacks decreased by 35% and 44%, respectively. Among the households whose fruit intake was decreased, about 21% fully omitted it from their food baskets. Residing in rural areas, having more than six members in the household, income loss, and residing in deprived provinces were directly associated with decreased consumption of fruits and snacks. Being a female-headed household was positively associated, and having persons with COVID-19 in the households was inversely associated, with decreased consumption of fruits. The main reason for reducing fruit and snack consumption was income loss. Conclusions A significant decline in fruit and snack consumption because of COVID-19 lockdown was seen among the Iranian households. It is likely that these changes in dietary habits will become longstanding with consequent adverse health outcomes.

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is acknowledged as the main causative factor of dementia that affects millions of people around the world and is increasing at increasing pace. Okadaic acid (OA) is a toxic compound with ability to inhibit protein phosphatases and to induce tau protein hyperphosphorylation and Alzheimer's-like phenotype. Kolaviron (KV) is a bioflavonoid derived from Garcinia kola seeds with anti-antioxidative and anti-inflammation properties. The main goal of this study was to assess whether kolaviron can exert neuroprotective effect against okadaic acid-induced cognitive deficit. Rats had an intracerebroventricular (ICV) injection of OA and pretreated with KV at 50 or 100 mg/kg and examined for cognition besides histological and biochemical factors. OA group treated with KV at 100 mg/kg had less memory deficit in passive avoidance and novel object discrimination (NOD) tasks besides lower hippocampal levels of caspases 1 and 3, tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) and interleukin 6 (IL-6) as inflammatory factors, reactive oxygen species (ROS), protein carbonyl, malondialdehyde (MDA), and phosphorylated tau (p-tau) and higher level of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity, mitochondrial integrity index, superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione (GSH). Moreover, KV pretreatment at 100 mg/kg attenuated hippocampal CA1 neuronal loss and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) reactivity as a factor of astrogliosis. In summary, KV was able to attenuate cognitive fall subsequent to ICV OA which is partly mediated through its neuroprotective potential linked to mitigation of tau hyperphosphorylation, apoptosis, pyroptosis, neuroinflammation, and oxidative stress and also improvement of mitochondrial health.

Objective: Prior studies have shown statins provide neuroprotection by targeting secondary brain injury pathways and regulating cytokine production. We aimed to evaluate the association between statin administration and molecular outcomes in acute Intracranial hemorrhages (ICHs). Methods: Adult patients with acute spontaneous ICH were recruited and randomly allocated into two groups: group A received atorvastatin (40 mg/day) orally in addition to routine antihypertensive medications, while group B only received routine antihypertensives. Serum levels of matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), as primary outcomes, were measured at baseline, and after 45 days. Results: Thirty-nine ICH patients (group A: 20; group B: 19) were analyzed. A notable elevation in VEGF and a reduction in MMP-9 levels were detected in group A compared to those in group B (P-value = 0.024 and 0.008, respectively). Conclusion: Our data suggest that atorvastatin in the acute phase of ICH could improve the serum levels of neuroprotective molecular biomarkers.

Abstract Background Parents play a critical role in caring for their children with diabetes and bear a significant burden of care. Health education has increasingly focused on empowering parents through new strategic methods. The present study aims to investigate the impact of a family-centered empowerment model on the burden of care in parents and blood glucose levels of children with type I diabetes. Methods An interventional study was conducted in Kerman, Iran, where 100 children with type I diabetes and their parents were randomly selected as participants. The study aimed to implement a family-centered empowerment model in the intervention group, which consisted of four stages (educational phase, increasing self-efficacy, improving self-confidence, and evaluation) over a period of one month. The control group received routine training. The Zarit Caregiver Burden questionnaire and HbA1c log sheet were utilized to evaluate the effectiveness of the intervention. Questionnaires were administered before, after, and two months post-intervention, and data were analyzed using SPSS 15. Non-parametric tests were employed, and statistical significance was set at p

In the context of increasing energy demands and the integration of renewable energy sources, this review focuses on recent advancements in energy storage control strategies from 2016 to the present, evaluating both experimental and simulation studies at component, system, building, and district scales. Out of 426 papers screened, 147 were assessed for eligibility, with 56 included in the final review. As a first outcome, this work proposes a novel classification and taxonomy update for advanced storage control systems, aiming to bridge the gap between theoretical research and practical implementation. Furthermore, the study emphasizes experimental case studies, moving beyond numerical analyses to provide practical insights. It investigates how the literature on energy storage is enhancing building flexibility and resilience, highlighting the application of advanced algorithms and artificial intelligence methods and their impact on energy and financial savings. By exploring the correlation between control algorithms and the resulting benefits, this review provides a comprehensive analysis of the current state and future perspectives of energy storage control in smart grids and buildings.

Endometriosis (EMT) is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by the presence and growth of endometrial-like glandular epithelial and stromal cells outside the uterus. Natural Killer (NK) cell dysfunction/exhaustion has been shown in patients with EMT. In this case-control study, we compared the frequency of exhausted PD-1 or TIM-3 positive NK cells in peripheral blood (PB) and peritoneal fluid (PF) of women with advanced endometriosis to control fertile women. PB and PF were collected from women aged 25–40 who underwent the laparoscopic procedure, including 13 stages III/IV endometriosis and 13 control samples. Multicolor flowcytometry was used to compare the frequency of PD-1 or TIM-3 positive NK (CD3−CD56+) cells in PB and PF of two groups. We demonstrated a higher percentage of PD-1+ NK cells in the peritoneal fluid of patients with endometriosis rather than controls (P-value = 0.039). This significance was related to stage IV of endometriosis (P-value = 0.047). We can not show any significant difference in the number of PD-1 or TIM-3 positive NK cells in peripheral blood. Our results suggest a local exhausted NK cell response in endometriosis that can be a leading factor in the endometriosis pathogenesis.

Introduction : L’objectif de l’étude était d’évaluer l'impact de la durée de la raideur matinale rapportée par le patient sur l'évaluation de l'activité de la polyarthrite rhumatoïde. Matériels et méthodes : L’étude QUEST-RA (Quantitative Standard monitoring of patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis) est une étude transversale multinationale inspirée de l'étude finlandaise, menée par des rhumatologues publics et privés au Maroc pendant la période allant de janvier 2008 à décembre 2010. Un pré-questionnaire comportant des informations sociodémographiques, cliniques et paracliniques a été rempli pour chaque patient. La durée de la raideur matinale (RM) a été évaluée depuis le réveil des patients jusqu'à l'amélioration maximale de la douleur. Quatre groupes ont été constitués en fonction de l'activité de la maladie. Nous avons effectué une analyse de corrélation pour établir la relation entre la raideur matinale et l'activité de la maladie sur la base du DAS28. Une analyse de régression linéaire a été utilisée pour identifier les déterminants de cette relation. Résultats : L'âge moyen de nos patients était de 48,82 ± 12,72 ans, avec une prédominance féminine (87,3%). La durée médiane de la maladie était de 6 ans (3-12). Le DAS28 moyen était de 4,93 ± 1,68, la durée moyenne de la sclérose en plaques était de 60 (30-90) minutes. Une corrélation significative a été notée entre le DAS28 (r = 0,318), l’EVA fatigue (r = 0,343), l’EVA global (r = 0,315), la VS (r = 0,144) et la durée de la raideur matinale (tous p < 0,05). Plus de deux tiers de nos patients avaient une activité sévère 43% et 98% d'entre eux avaient une durée de raideur matinale supérieure à 60 minutes. La durée de la raideur matinale chez les patients ayant une activité sévère était différente de celle des sujets des autres groupes (p< 0,0001). En analyse univariée et multivariée et en ajustant les facteurs confondants, le DAS28 augmente de 8,6 à 10,2 lorsque la durée de la raideur matinale augmente d'une minute. Conclusion : Notre étude suggère que la raideur matinale rapportée par les patients influence l'activité de la maladie évaluée par le DAS28.

Objective: To identify the factors related to infection by the new coronavirus in workers of fast-track basic health units. Methods: Cross-sectional study carried out in the capital of Piauí with 114 health workers in four fast-track basic units between August and November 2021. Questionnaires were applied with sociodemographic, occupational and performance-related variables during the COVID-19 pandemic. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. A significance level of 0.05 was adopted. Results: Among the sample, 93.9% tested for COVID-19, and 48.2% of them had a positive result. The most used protective equipments were: surgical mask (92.1%), caps (87.7%) and procedure/sterile gloves (64.0%). Regarding access to biosafety training, the participants said they had participated in training for the placement and removal of PPE (57.9%) and hand hygiene (64%). Regarding the use of the N95 mask or similar, 28.9% said they did not use it. Conclusion: Ensuring access to protective equipment of sufficient quality and quantity, the rational use of these inputs, proper handling and disposal and actions aimed at avoiding physical and emotional exhaustion of workers are fundamental strategies to overcome the crisis and preserve the health of these individuals.

O objetivo do estudo foi avaliar a percepção dos pacientes quanto ao atendimento nas Redes de Atenção à Saúde, desde o surgimento dos sintomas até o diagnóstico de hanseníase. Trata-se de um estudo qualitativo com 15 pacientes com hanseníase atendidos em um centro de referência no estado do Piauí. A coleta de dados foi realizada entre agosto e setembro de 2022, com o uso de um roteiro de entrevista semiestruturado de três blocos: 1) perfil sociodemográfico e econômico; 2) dados clínicos; e 3) questões semidirigidas relacionadas ao itinerário terapêutico para o diagnóstico e tratamento. Foram incluídos pacientes com hanseníase em tratamento e idade superior a 18 anos. Excluiu-se aqueles que não responderam questionamentos essenciais para os objetivos do estudo ou tangenciaram o tema nesse sentido. Predominaram pacientes mulheres, casadas, com média de idade de 58 anos, ensino fundamental completo, que recebiam menos de um salário mínimo, autodeclaradas como pardas, residentes em Teresina e com a forma multibacilar da doença. Após a análise de conteúdo, emergiram três categorias temáticas: 1) dificuldades no autorreconhecimento das manifestações clínicas da hanseníase; 2) itinerário terapêutico do usuário com hanseníase na rede de atenção à saúde; e 3) percepção dos pacientes com hanseníase sobre o atendimento dos profissionais de saúde. A percepção dos pacientes permite concluir que a busca pelo diagnóstico e o atendimento em saúde foi um processo longo e conflituoso até que estes chegassem a ser atendidos na Atenção Primária.

Abstract This work aims to obtain the solubility, density and thermodynamic parameters of deferiprone in propylene glycol and ethanol. For this purpose, a shake-flask technique was applied for solid–liquid equilibration and the spectrophotometry method was employed for solubility measurement. Solubility and density of deferiprone in non-aqueous mixtures of propylene glycol and ethanol were measured in the temperatures 293.2–313.2 K. Some equations including van’t Hoff, the Jouyban-Acree, the Jouyban-Acree-van’t Hoff, the mixture response surface and modified Wilson equations were used for the mathematical data modeling. The apparent thermodynamic parameters of the deferiprone dissolution process were computed and reported.