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The distribution of wealth among the people of society is one of the most important subject in the economy, distribution and its methods keep the economic balance among the people of the society. Therefore, fair distribution of wealth leads to the welfare and comfort of all people in society. Distribution theory has been remained a hot discussion and argument among the different economic schools for a long time. Capitalism believes in the freedom of the individual in all areas, the general law in the capitalist system is that each production factor determines its part in wealth. The factors of production are land, workforce, capital and employment. The theory of capitalism in the domain of the division of wealth is that that the land gets lease or rent, the workforce gets wages, capital gains profit and the employer gains benefit. Socialists believe that the equal distribution of wealth is the key solution to all the problems of society and argue: Due to the lack of reasonable distribution of wealth, numerous major problems raised in society. According to socialists, in fact the unequal distribution of wealth in a society is the basic reason of all economic problems among the people of society. They suggest that all tools and factors of production should be taken from individuals and should be controlled by government. The people of society should have fair access to the wealth produced from it, and the government itself should have a mechanism for wealth distribution. However, the Islamic economic system has another theory. Its crux is: the variance in the wealth of the people of the society is a natural matter, all human beings are not equal in wealth. Distribution from the perspective of the Islamic economy has three stages: The first stage is possession of items, the second stage is the distribution based on the contribution of each production factor in wealth production and the third stage is the redistribution of wealth distribution by some distributing mechanism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In severe COVID-19 cases, a hypercoagulable state may occur. Antiphospholipid syndrome-related auto-antibodies (APSRAs) contribute to coagulopathy, but their role in COVID-19 remains unclear. We aimed to investigate the prevalence of positive APSRAs and their effect on clinical outcomes in confirmed COVID-19 patients. Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, severe hospitalized COVID-19 cases were enrolled. Demographic and clinical data were obtained from the day of admission. APSRAs including IgG and/or IgM anticardiolipin (aCL) and anti-ß2-glycoprotein1 (anti-ß2GP1) as well as lupus anticoagulant (LAC) were measured. Results: In this study, 54 severe COVID-19 cases with positive RT-PCR and chest CT scans were recruited. Positive APSRAs were found in 7 (12.9%) patients. Positive LAC was a more prevalent marker as compared to other tests (11.1%). The prevalence of positive aCL (IgM or IgG) and anti-ß2 GPI (IgM or IgG) w as 1.8% (in an elderly woman). Lower oxygen saturation was found in the positive APSRAs group as opposed to the negative APSRAs group (70.3±9 vs. 84.8±9.7%). The mortality rate in the positive APSRAs group was significantly higher relative to the negative APSRAs group (83.3% vs. 27.1%; Pvalue: 0.01). Likewise, the mechanical ventilation requirement in the positive group was also higher (50% vs. 27.1%, P-value: 0.28). Conclusion: This study indicated that LAC might be associated with critical cases and high mortality of COVID-19. Nonetheless, the mortality was not related to macrothrombotic incidence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Neuropsychological manifestations are increasingly reported in patients with COVID-19, but the subject is poorly understood and our knowledge about cognitive impairment is limited. This study aimed to investigate neuropsychological involvement of COVID-19 and its relation to laboratory data. Material and methods: This study was conducted among patients admitted to a tertiary medical center in Iran, in the period March 2020 to March 2021. Neuropsychiatric assessments were carried out by the Addenbrooke’s Cognitive Examination (ACE) test in all patients and interpreted by a specialist. It was performed using the Persian version of ACE in six domains consisting of attention, orientation, memory, language, visual perception and visuospatial skills. Laboratory data were assessed among all patients. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS. Results: Among 114 patients with COVID-19, the mean age was 48.46 ±13.61 years, and the male/female ratio was 1.32. The mean values of some abnormal laboratory data were: erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) 57.2 ±29.8, C-reactive protein (CRP) 81.7 ±59.8 and D-dimer 459.3 ±395.4. Cognitive impairment was detected in 41 patients (63%). The mean score of ACE was 80.68 ±19.29. Statistical analysis showed correlations between total result of the ACE test and laboratory findings that were not statistically significant. Conclusions: In our study, no relation was found between laboratory test results and the overall cognitive examination score but statistical analysis showed a correlation between CRP and verbal fluency, between hemoglobin level and language and visuospatial domains, and also between total level of bilirubin and memory. These relations may suggest that we should follow the neurocognitive features in COVID-19 patients earlier. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The hydrangea (Hydrangea macrophylla (Thunb). Ser.), an ornamental plant, has good marketing potential and is known for its capacity to change the colour of its inflorescence depending on the pH of the cultivation media. The molecular mechanisms causing these changes are still uncertain. In the present study, transcriptome and targeted metabolic profiling were used to identify molecular changes in the RNAome of hydrangea plants cultured at two different pH levels. De novo assembly yielded 186,477 unigenes. Transcriptomic datasets provided a comprehensive and systemic overview of the dynamic networks of the gene expression underlying flower colour formation in hydrangeas. Weighted analyses of gene co-expression network identified candidate genes and hub genes from the modules linked closely to the hyper accumulation of Al3+ during different stages of flower development. F3′5′H, ANS, FLS, CHS, UA3GT, CHI, DFR, and F3H were enhanced significantly in the modules. In addition, MYB, bHLH, PAL6, PAL9, and WD40 were identified as hub genes. Thus, a hypothesis elucidating the colour change in the flowers of Al3+-treated plants was established. This study identified many potential key regulators of flower pigmentation, providing novel insights into the molecular networks in hydrangea flowers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is an inflammatory autoimmune disease that mostly affects different joints of the body. Macrophages are the predominant cells that mediate disease progression by secreting several pro-inflammatory mediators. Different receptors are involved in macrophages' function including the adenosine receptors (AR). Our main objective in this study was to assess the effect of applying A2A adenosine receptor agonist (CGS-21,680) on the gene expression of inflammatory mediators including bone morphogenetic proteins (BMP)-2, 4 and matrix metalloproteinases (MMP)-3, 8, 9, and 13 on the macrophages from AS patients compared to healthy macrophages.Methods: Monocytes were isolated from the whole blood of 28 individuals (AS patients and healthy controls in a 1:1 ratio). Macrophages were differentiated using macrophage colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF), and flow cytometry was performed to confirm surface markers. CGS-21,680 was used to treat cells that had been differentiated. Using SYBR green real-time PCR, relative gene expression was determined.Results: Activating A2AAR diminished MMP8 expression in healthy macrophages while it cannot reduce MMP8 expression in patients' macrophages. The effect of A2AAR activation on the expression of BMP2 and MMP9 reached statistical significance neither in healthy macrophages nor in the patients' group. We also discovered a significant positive connection between MMP8 expression and patient scores on the Bath ankylosing spondylitis functional index (BASFI).Conclusion: Due to the disability of A2AAR activation in the reduction of MMP8 expression in patients' macrophages and the correlation of MMP8 expression with BASFI index in patients, these results represent defects and dysregulations in the related signaling pathway in patients' macrophages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Oligocene Nasrand intrusive rocks (NIRs), located in the central part of the Urumieh–Dokhtar magmatic arc, are mainly composed of granite and subordinate diorite and gabbro. These rocks are characterized by the enrichment of light rare earth elements (LREEs), Nb‐Ta negative anomalies, and high LILE/HFSE, suggesting a subduction‐related origin. The felsic rocks with granite compositions have high SiO2 content (69.77–77.88 wt.%), low Mg# (0.02–0.43), low Nb/Ta, and Zr/Hf (Avg: 12.53, and 33.08, respectively). The initial 87Sr/86Sr ratio and εNd(t) values in felsic rocks range from 0.70577 to 0.70576 and 0.4 to −0.3, respectively. These data suggest that these felsic rocks originated from juvenile crust by heat rising from basaltic magmas in an orogenic setting. The mafic‐intermediate rocks and dikes are gabbro, gabbroic diorite, and monzodiorite, with low SiO2 content (48.08–56.11 wt.%) and high Mg# (0.37–0.68), with average ratios of Nb/Ta and Zr/Hf are 27.88 and 39.84, respectively. The initial 87Sr/86Sr ratio and εNd(t) values for mafic‐intermediate rocks and dikes are 0.70583 to 0.70476 and −0.1 to +2.6, respectively. These characteristics indicate magma from a mantle source that had undergone minor mixing with juvenile crust. It seems mantle‐derived juvenile magma underplating played an important role in the crustal growth in the Urumieh–Dokhtar magmatic belt during the Ediacaran to Early Cambrian, relative to other time frames. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effectiveness of inactivated H9N2 influenza vaccines is doubtful due to changes in antigenic regions of the virus hemagglutinin (HA) protein. One strategy for the development of the efficacious vaccine is the use of nanoparticles that display more immunogenic regions of the influenza virus. In this study, chitosan (CS)-based nanoparticles were developed as a delivery system for intranasal immunization using recombinant H9N2 virus HA1 and nucleoprotein (NP), for the induction of humoral and cellular responses. CS-HA1 and CS-NP nanoparticles were prepared by the ionic gelation method and characterized for their physicochemical properties and shape. The immunogenicity and the protective efficacy were evaluated by measuring antibody titers, T cell proliferation response, CD4+/CD8+ ratio, and quantitative real-time RT-PCR following intranasal administration of the prepared nanoparticles alone or in combination in chickens compared to an inactivated H9N2 vaccine. The average size, surface charge, and spherical structure of the synthesized nanoparticles showed high quality. Serologic analysis revealed that the immunization of inactivated vaccine groups resulted in strong influenza antibodies, which were significantly (p < 0.05) higher compared to the other groups. The vaccinated chickens with CS-HA1+CS-NP developed higher specific anti-influenza antibodies than in those vaccinated with each of rHA1 and rNP. Administration of a combination of the protein-based nanoparticles has stimulated the activation of both CD4+ and CD8+T cells and induced a significantly higher T cell proliferation. The viral shedding was significantly lower in CS-HA1+CS-NP and inactivated vaccine groups compared with other challenged groups. The data demonstrate the potential of CS-HA1+CS-NP nanoparticles for eliciting specific influenza antibodies and conferring protection in chickens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zircon U-Pb-Hf isotopes, integrated with bulk-rock major, trace element, and isotopic compositions of amphibolites from the Makran ophiolitic mélange complex (OMC), carry implications on the evolution of the Neo-Tethys Ocean. Field and petrographical-geochemical data confirm these amphibolites as products of the metamorphism of a mafic protolith. Zircons from the amphibolites have U-Pb ages of Late Early Permian (273 Ma) to Late Triassic (210 Ma), and their εHf(t) values vary from +6.32 to +15.4. The Makran amphibolites are geochemically similar to transitional- or enriched-MORBs. The 143Nd/144Nd(t) ratios for amphibolites range from 0.51260 to 0.512551, and 87Sr/86Sr(t) from 0.704433 to 0.706244. The Pb-isotope composition of these rocks is radiogenic, ranging from 15.61-15.64 for 207Pb/204Pb(t), 18.98-19.21 for 206Pb/204Pb(t) and 38.88-39.36 for 208Pb/204Pb(t). The isotopic and geochemical signatures of these rocks suggest that they were most likely formed during continental rifting and originated from a relatively enriched mantle source. This is also attested by their high zircon Ce/Ce* ratios. We interpret these amphibolites related to the Permian-Triassic plumes that triggered Gondwana rifting to open the Neo-Tethyan Ocean before metamorphosed, fragmented, and accreted into the Makran accretionary complex probably during Early to Late Cretaceous time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: Probiotics are added into the food or feed systems and provide beneficial effects to the human or animal health. This study aimed to isolate the gastrointestinal native Lactobacillus strains with high probiotic, cholesterol-assimilation and aflatoxin-degradation capabilities from native chickens. Materials and Methods: About 70 Lactobacillus isolates were isolated from ileum of the Fars province native chickens and were investigated for their probiotic properties. Results: Of 70 Lactobacillus isolates, 10 showed high probiotic capabilities, including survival at acidic conditions (pH up to 2.5), tolerance of 0.5% bile and 6-10% NaCl salts, growth in a wide range of temperature from 15 to 45°C, antagonistic effects against different important bacterial pathogens (Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, Streptococcus mutans, Clostridium defficile, Enterococcus hirae, Salmonella enterica and Staphylococcus aureus) and sensitivity to some important antibiotics. The selected strains had an aggregation time less than 120 min. The 16S-rDNA sequencing showed that the selected strains were highly related to Lactobacillus reuteri and L. casei. Finally, the selected strains in this study along with 10 other probiotic strains isolated and characterized in our pervious study were used to evaluate their cholesterol assimilation and aflatoxin B1 degradation capabilities. The potentials of cholesterol assimilation of the selected strains were significantly different (P<0.05) and ranged from 2.3% to 99%. The highest content of cholesterol assimilation was obtained in isolates M20 and M4 with more than 98% absorption. Moreover, four strains 43, OR7, M21 and OR9 were able to absorb AFB1 with 58.6%, 52.33%, 47% and 31.6% efficiency respectively. Conclusion: It could be concluded that the strains 43, M21 and OR7 showed high probiotic potentials for application in the poultry industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Utilizing subunit vaccines is one of the strategies to address influenza infection. Recent innovations have focused on high doses of vaccine antigens and immune enhancers or adjuvant to induce more robust and long-lasting immune responses. Here, an effect of the B cell-activating factor receptor (BAFF-R) to increase the magnitude and durability of immune responses of the recombinant HA1 (rHA1) protein against the H1N1 influenza virus was studied. The HA1 protein and the effector domain of BAFF-R were expressed in the pET-28a (+) vector. Eight-week-old BALB/c mice were equally grouped into five groups (n=20). The 15 and 25 μg/μL of rHA1 were mixed with 2 μg/μL of rBAFF-R and injected three times for vaccinated groups. Three control groups were received normal saline and two concentrations of rHA1. The ability of rBAFF-R in eliciting HA-specific antibody response and stimulating T lymphocyte proliferation to induce the cell-mediated immunity was assayed. Induction of protection was evaluated following the challenge with PR8 strain. Analysis of immune responses showed that the co-administration of rBAFF-R with rHA1 boosted HI responses to the antigen in mice, whilst it was not able to promote the T cell proliferation responses against influenza. Compared to rHA1alone, the rBAFF-R/rHA1 generated efficient protection for the animals. There were no significant differences in eliciting the immune responses in mice immunized with the lower dose of rHA1 than that with the higher dose. The data indicate the rBAFF-R can enhance the primary and memory immune responses to protect against influenza infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article proposes a controller for dc–dc converters to achieve fast load-transient responses. The controller is developed for both continuous conduction mode (CCM) and discontinuous conduction mode (DCM) of operation. The main idea is developed for buck converters, but it is shown that the proposed controller can be applied to other topologies, such as the noninverting buck–boost converter. The controller derivation, analysis, and experimental verifications are provided in both CCM and DCM, and its performance is compared with other methods. The main advantage of the proposed controller is that it minimizes the recovery times associated with load-transient responses in dc–dc converters while maintaining component sizes and other system parameters within the acceptable range. The proposed controller can be used to minimize load transients in electronic portable devices and electric vehicle charging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, the use of nuclear density gauges, due to the ability to work in harsh industrial environments, is very common. In this study, to reduce error related to the ρ of continuous measuring density, the combination of backscatter and transmission are used simultaneously. For this reason, a 137Cs source for Compton scattering dominance and two detectors are simulated by MCNP4C code for measuring the density of 3 materials. Important advantages of this combined radiometric gauge are diminished influence of μ and therefore improving linear regression.

Compared to the uniform linear array (ULA), the sparse linear array (SLA) has many advantages such as a greater degrees of freedom (DOF), a higher resolution, and robustness against mutual coupling. The optimal placement of elements to achieve the maximum DOF in SLA has been an old problem in array signal processing. Finding the optimum placement is limited to an exhaustive computer search as yet. Therefore, some familiar SLAs (such as ‘nested’ and ‘coprime’ arrays) have been suggested to improve DOF although none of them necessarily can achieve the maximum DOF with a certain number of sensors. In this paper, first we have proposed a novel hole-free SLA that yields the minimum number of sensors (MSA) for the desired DOF. The optimization problem associated with such an array is a nonlinear binary optimization problem. Then, the problem is transformed into a binary linear programming (BLP) problem which could be solved exactly. Using the proposed method, a fast and efficient solution to the minimum redundancy array(MRA) is found. Finally, the simulation results show that the proposed array has a higher DOF compared to the other competitive methods for a given number of sensors, which is the maximum possible DOF. This can lead to a better target resolution and DOA estimation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gastrointestinal (GI) cancers with a high global prevalence are a leading cause of morbidity and mortality. Accordingly, there is a great need to develop efficient therapeutic approaches. Curcumin, a naturally occurring agent, is a promising compound with documented safety and anticancer activities. Recent studies have demonstrated the activity of curcumin in the prevention and treatment of different cancers. According to systematic studies on curcumin use in various diseases, it can be particularly effective in GI cancers because of its high bioavailability in the gastrointestinal tract. Nevertheless, the clinical applications of curcumin are largely limited because of its low solubility and low chemical stability in water. These limitations may be addressed by the use of relevant analogues or novel delivery systems. Herein, we summarize the pharmacological effects of curcumin against GI cancers. Moreover, we highlight the application of curcumin's analogues and novel delivery systems in the treatment of GI cancers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: This study aimed to investigate the effect of circadian rhythm stability and amplitude on musculoskeletal disorder prevalence and work–family conflict among nurses. Design: This cross‐sectional study was conducted on 386 nurses working in three hospitals, in Shahroud, Iran. Method: The data were collected using the Circadian Rhythm Inventory, Nordic Musculoskeletal Disorders, and Carlson Work‐Family Conflict questionnaires. Results: The highest prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders was reported in the lower back (68.4%), upper back (65.5%) and shoulders (53.6%), respectively. No significant relation was found between circadian rhythm stability and amplitude, and musculoskeletal disorders prevalence. The nurses who could not overcome drowsiness reported more Work Interference with Family (WIF), Family Interference with Work (FIW) (time‐based) and FIW (strain‐based) compared to the nurses who overcame drowsiness. In addition, the appropriate nurses for shift work experienced less WIF, FIW (behavioural‐based) and WIF (strain‐based) compared to the nurses who could not work overtime or at night. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Achieving sustainable development is one of the most important agricultural resources. Therefore, the overall purpose of this study is to investigate the factors affecting farmers' desire to change the cultivation pattern to cultivation of medicinal plants. The research method is allowed as a field-library. After determining the variables through questionnaires and software SPSS. The statistical population of this study is rural producers in Targabah district in Khorasan Razavi Province in Iran. The statistical sample for this study was 204 rural households. The sample was calculated using random sampling based on Cochran formula. The results show that the farmers' desire to change the cultivation pattern to cultivation of medicinal plants has a significant positive correlation with its level of economic, social, technical and environmental awareness. Also, it has a significant and positive relationship with his understanding of the production of medicinal plants which can enhance the protection of the environment. The results of the diagnostic analysis showed that the level of economic awareness and awareness of processing plants and product packaging can affect the farmers' desire to change the cultivation pattern to cultivation of medicinal plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The virulent Newcastle disease virus (NDV) strains cause an economically important infectious disease in poultry. The common vaccination program with genotype II NDV strains is routinely practiced to provide a better protection level against Newcastle disease (ND). Nevertheless, the emergence of new antigenic and genetic variants within the circulating NDVs raises the importance of improved control strategies. The genotype VII NDV is associated with many of the most recent outbreaks of the disease worldwide. Methods: We evaluated the impacts of genetic divergence between the genotypes II and VII on the immunity against NDV to choose a suitable vaccine virus candidate by focusing on the F and HN proteins. Comparative bioinformatics analyses based on B- and T-cell epitopes binding affinity, protein secondary structure and physicochemical properties predictions were applied for genotypes II and VII. Results: Although the results showed more differences in HN protein than F protein, there was no major difference between the predicted antigenicity values, epitope regions, affinity binding to MHC-I and MHC-II, secondary structures, surface accessibility, and stability of these immunogens between genotypes II and VII. Conclusion: The results suggest that genotype II-based live vaccines can induce immune responses against NDV; however, an inactivated vaccine formulated by genotype VII should be considered in combination with the traditional live vaccine to provide better protection in controlling programs against ND. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new fault diagnosis method for detecting the rotor eccentricity faults including static, dynamic and mixed eccentricity is proposed for brushless doubly‐fed induction machines (BDFIMs). BDFIMs are attractive alternatives for the conventional doubly‐fed induction generator (DFIG) for offshore wind power generation; therefore, paying attention to their fault detection is essential. Existing fault detection methods for conventional induction machines cannot be directly applied to the BDFIM due to its special rotor structure and stator winding configurations as well as complex magnetic field patterns. This article proposes a novel fault detection method based on motor current signal analysis to determine stator current harmonics, induced by the nested‐loop rotor slot harmonics (NRSHs), as fault indices. The analysis is performed under healthy conditions and with different types of rotor eccentricity. Finally, a sensitivity analysis is carried out to confirm the practicability of the proposed technique with various fault intensities and load conditions. Analytical winding function approach, finite element analysis and experimental tests on a prototype D180 BDFIM are used in this study to validate the proposed fault detection technique. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Friction is created in the gas seals due to the relative motion of the two fixed and rotary surfaces, causing power dissipation, erosion, heat generation and temperature rise of the surfaces so a distance between two surfaces should be created. In the structure of Dry Gas Seals (DGS), the grooves on the rotating surface are created, which is the key to the gas penetration between the surfaces. The geometrical parameters of grooves would have substantial effect on the amount of leakage, so it is of high importance to indicate the best shape and operating condition of grooves. In this research, the effect of geometric parameters of a DGS with trapezoidal grooves on the leakage rate and open force is investigated. The geometric parameters are the depth of the triangular and square sections, the length of the groove, the angle of the square part and the angle of the groove. The length of the groove has a substantial impact on leakage, and by doubling the length, the leakage rate is raised to 58%. It is concluded that when the angle of the square section is 7° and the angle of groove is 22°, the minimum leakage occurs in the range of parameters studied. Taguchi algorithm is also applied to optimize the shape parameters of the groove to minimize open force and leakage of the seal. Optimal dimensions for grooves in the range of operating conditions in this study are triangle depth = 3μm, quad - depth = 10μm, Length = 8mm, groove angle = 18°, rectangle angle = 5°. The same optimum conditions are obtained by considering energy and exergy terms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The present study was conducted to investigate the relationship between metabolic syndrome and the risk of respiratory and sleep disorders in professional drivers. Methods: This case-control study was conducted on professional drivers in Shahroud, Iran. The snoring, tiredness during daytime, observed apnea, high blood pressure, body mass index, age, neck circumference, gender (STOP-Bang) questionnaire was first used to assess obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Then, based on the questionnaire scores, the participants were divided into two groups: those with and those without OSA. The relationship between this disorder and metabolic syndrome was then studied. Data were analyzed using descriptive and analytical tests (P<0.05). Results: Based on the STOP-Bang questionnaire, 214 drivers with a high risk of OSA and 214 drivers with low risk were recruited for the study. According to the Adult Treatment Panel III criteria, 204 drivers (47.7%) had metabolic syndrome. There was a significant relationship between driver's license class and the risk of OSA. Metabolic syndrome components including fasting blood sugar, triglycerides, and hypertension, but not high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, were able to predict OSA in the professional drivers. Conclusion: Given the high prevalence of metabolic syndrome and OSA, especially in drivers of high risk who may spend long hours transporting good and operating passenger vehicles, screening and treating these disorders are crucial in this part of the population. The researchers recommend holding regular training sessions about these disorders for professional drivers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective(s): The contribution of classic progesterone receptors (PR) in interceding the neuroprotective efficacy of progesterone (P4) on the prevention of brain edema and long-time behavioral disturbances was assessed in traumatic brain injury (TBI). Materials and Methods: Female Wistar rats were ovariectomized and apportioned into 6 groups: sham, TBI, oil, P4, vehicle, and RU486. P4 or oil was injected following TBI. The antagonist of PR (RU486) or DMSO was administered before TBI. The brain edema and destruction of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) were determined. Intracranial pressure (ICP), cerebral perfusion pressure (CPP), and beam walk (BW) task were evaluated previously and at various times post-trauma. Long-time locomotor and cognitive consequences were measured one day before and on days 3, 7, 14, and 21 after the trauma. Results: RU486 eliminated the inhibitory effects of P4 on brain edema and BBB leakage (P<0.05, P<0.001, respectively). RU486 inhibited the decremental effect of P4 on ICP as well as the increasing effect of P4 on CPP (P<0.001) after TBI. Also, RU486 inhibited the effect of P4 on the increase in traversal time and reduction in vestibulomotor score in the BW task (P<0.001). TBI induced motor, cognitive, and anxiety-like disorders, which lasted for 3 weeks after TBI; but, P4 prevented these cognitive and behavioral abnormalities (P<0.05), and RU486 opposed this P4 effect (P<0.001). Conclusion: The classic progesterone receptors have neuroprotective effects and prevent long-time behavioral and memory deficiency after brain trauma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a decision‐driven stochastic adaptive‐robust microgrid operation optimization model considering the uncertainties of wind and solar generations, electricity price, and demand as well as the availability uncertainties of microgrid's components. Unlike previous works, this paper utilizes stochastic adaptive‐robust optimization approach to model both continuous and binary uncertainties simultaneously. To do so, adaptive‐robust optimization is used to model the continuous uncertainties, while the binary uncertainties are modelled by means of stochastic programming. An operating dispatchable unit usually exhibits a higher forced outage rate than a de‐committed one. Hence, due to the effect of the optimization decisions on the availability uncertainties, this research work proposes an intrinsic scenario production technique to model these binary uncertainties. In addition, a tri‐level decomposition method is introduced to solve the proposed microgrid operation optimization problem. In this decomposition method, the worst‐case realization of continuous uncertain parameters and unit commitment decisions are determined at each iteration considering the produced scenarios in the previous iteration. Case studies on the IEEE 69‐bus test system exhibit the effectiveness of the proposed decision‐driven stochastic adaptive‐robust model and the proposed solution method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Considering the vital role of water in all periods of human life and the increasing population, water deficit crisis was predictable. This condition lead the water experts to implement the water resource projects to supply suitable water for public population. In this paper, analysis the impact of construction the water resource projects used the Bayesian networks. The Hana dam as a case study has investigated in Iran. In this research by used the questionnaire tools score based on indexes was calculated, then by use the Netica software the total impacts index was calculated. This managerial pattern has been presented based on talents, relative advantages and sensitivity of this study. After the determining the most important parameters of Hana dam construction affect in agricultural sector through literature review and interview, summarized these effects in three groups in social, economic and ecological dimension. Then by use the sensitivity test were prioritized the major factors of the dam construction effects. Effects were classified in three categories of good, average and weak. Also the results of research indicate that the most of effects of this project (Hana dam construction for agricultural sector) was in good class category with 51.6% of total positive effects. The results of the sensitivity analysis showed that the economic nodes have the positive effect but ecological and social nodes have the positive and negative effects in Hana areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Infectious laryngotracheitis (ILT) is a poultry respiratory disease associated with considerable mortality in chicken and decreasing egg production. Vaccination along with biosecurity measures are considered as the main strategy for ILT control. This study was aimed to evaluate the potency of an inactive ILT vaccine candidate derived from a local ILTV isolate. The isolated virus was characterized and treated with various chemicals and their concentrations. The virus infectivity was entirely abolished by treatment of 3 mM binary ethylene imine following 16 h incubation. The immune response of inactivated ILTV suspension with adjuvans was evaluated in both SPF chickens (experiment-I) and Hyline pullets (experiment-II). Efficacy of the inactivated and live ILT vaccines combination was compared. The results of experiment-I showed that the inactivated antigen induced specific antibody titers against ILTV. In experiment-II, despite the increase in serum antibody level administration of the inactivated antigen alone did not offer sufficient protection. The full protection was found in chickens that received the combination regimen. We conclude that simultaneous administration of the inactivated and live ILT vaccines was efficient for induction of immunity against ILTV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Non-ionic surfactant, Tween-80 (TW80) is commonly used for drug delivery due to its effect on the cell membrane permeation. The change in permeability can also increase viral infectivity in cells. This study was undertaken to improve upon Newcastle disease virus (NDV) titer cultivated with embryonic chicken eggs. Methods: The toxicity of TW80 was investigated against chicken embryos at varying concentrations, and changes in the morphology and weights of the heart, liver, and spleen of 4-day old chicken embryos were analyzed. Also, the effect of non-toxic concentrations of TW80 was examined on the infectivity of NDV. The virus was titrated in the allantoic fluid, using a 50% embryo infectious dose (EID50). Results: At high concentrations of TW80, hemorrhage-induced mortality was observed in embryos at the early stages of incubation. The embryos' viability was not affected at low TW80 concentrations, indicating that its toxicity to the chicken embryos was dose-dependent. The infectivity titer of NDV was increased in the presence of TW80 compared to those inoculated with NDV only. Conclusion: The data suggest that TW80 is toxic to chicken embryos at high concentrations, but it enhances cell membrane permeability for NDV particles at low concentrations without affecting the embryos' viability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article proposes a methodology for critical path selection and delay sensor insertion for aging monitoring in field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs). The aging information can be used to reconfigure FPGAs to achieve better performance or wear leveling. To filter out the paths aging less aggressively, our methodology decides based on both physical-level parameters [e.g., path delay, process variation, temperature, static stress (duty cycle), and dynamic stress (switching activity) as well as aging-relevant parameters (e.g., fan-out, and endpoint physical location)]. After selection of an optimal set of paths, age sensors, introduced in our earlier work, are placed in a distributed fashion throughout the FPGA area to provide aging information of its various parts as they are being used. Accurate aging models for FPGAs are required to determine the contribution of the above-mentioned parameters in aging. In this article, ASICs’ aging models are adapted for FPGAs through measurement-based fitting approach. The experimental results using various benchmarks reveal that our algorithm selects paths with a minimum error. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, we propose a fine-grained FPGA aging mitigation method. Our method focuses on Look Up Tables (LUTs) on which Boolean functions are mapped. Based on our observations, for any configuration, even if it is carefully selected, a number of LUT transistors experience severe stress rates. Therefore, an algorithm is presented to select several alternative configurations for each LUT. Alternative configurations are obtained by LUT input reordering. These alternative configurations are rotationally loaded into the FPGA. Experimental results shows that our method achieves 263 and 14.1 percent Mean Time To Failure (MTTF) improvement for Hot Carrier Injection (HCI) and Bias Temperature Instability (BTI), respectively. Additionally, due to changing only local routings, our method imposes up to 1 percent performance overhead to the systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Makran complex in southeast Iran provides a spectacular subduction-related accretionary complex to understand the mechanism of oceanic accretion and the evolution of subduction zones. In this paper, we present new major and trace element data as well as isotopic compositions of mafic volcanic blocks from the Makran ophiolitic mélange complex (OMC). Our aim is to assess the genesis of these rocks and discuss their implications on the evolution of Neotethys Ocean. These volcanic blocks are composed mainly of basalts with minor trachytes. The Makran lavas are occasionally interlayered with tuff layers. Zircons from these tuffs give U-Pb ages of 95 Ma, which is well in accordance with the reposted microfossil data for the interlayered pelagic limestones with pillow lavas. Makran basalts can be geochemically subdivided into four groups; normal to transitional MORB, enriched-MORB, Plume-type MORB and alkaline (-OIB-like) basalts. The OIB-like pillow lavas are represented by high values of Th/Tb (6.3–7.4) which are higher than other basalts (group 1 = 0.3–0.8; groups 2 = 0.7–1.6; group 3 = 1.58–1.36).143Nd/144Nd(t) ratios for basalts ranges from 0.51247 to 0.51292, whereas 87Sr/86Sr(t) isotopic composition of the OMC lavas varies from 0.704433 to 0.709466. The Pb isotopic composition of the lavas are quite high, ranging from 15.49–15.66 for 207Pb/204Pb(t), 18.09–19.12 for 206Pb/204Pb(t) and 37.80–39.23 for 208Pb/204Pb(t). The chemistry of these rocks suggests that they were formed most likely in an oceanic setting with clear plume-ridge interaction. These rocks can form from partial melting of a highly heterogeneous mantle source, which is extensively metasomatized with deep mantle OIB-type components. We suggest these rocks have been generated in an oceanic ridge with plume-ridge interaction, similar to the Iceland-Reykjanes Ridge, before being fragmented and accreted into the Makran accretionary complex. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article proposes and demonstrates a fault-detection method to locate interturn short circuits (ITSCs) in the stator windings of a brushless doubly fed induction machine (BDFIM). The detection of ITSC is important in machine health prognostics as ITSC is an early stage fault that may lead to other faults such as coil-to-coil and coil-to-ground. BDFIM consists of power and control windings in the stator that are magnetically coupled through a nested-loop rotor winding. Existing ITSC detection algorithms use rotor slot harmonics in stator current spectra as fault indicators for only conventional doubly fed induction machines. However, these algorithms cannot be applied to BDFIM due to its different stator/rotor winding structure. This article primarily proposes a new analytical formulation for the nested-loop rotor slot harmonics (NRSHs) as ITSC fault indicators in BDFIMs. Using NRSHs, a detection algorithm is also proposed to detect and locate ITSC in power/control windings of BDFIMs. The proposed algorithm is verified based on numerical analysis of a BDFIM using the finite-element method. The accuracy of the proposed fault-detection algorithm is also experimentally investigated and demonstrated using a BDFIM test rig. Both numerical and experimental test results confirm effectiveness of the proposed ITSC fault-detection algorithm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Extremely low-frequency magnetic fields (ELF-MFs) have raised some concerns due to their possible effects on workers' health. In this study ELF-MFs were measured in different units of the thermal power plant based on gridding the indoor space. The exposure level was measured by spot measurement based on the IEEE Std C95.3.1 and then simulated in units with the highest magnetic field intensity by using ArcGIS software. The operators and balance of plant (BOP) technicians (12.64 ± 9.74 μT) and office workers (2.41 ± 1.22 μT) had the highest and lowest levels of both measured and estimated ELF-MFs exposure. The highest measured ELF-MFs were in the vicinity of the power transmission lines in the transformers' building (48.2 μT). Our simulation showed the high and low exposure areas and ranked exposure well; but, the actual measurements of ELF-MFs exposure were in all cases higher than the estimated values, which means we still need to improve our estimations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, the use of medicinal plants has increased and rangelands are the main sources of these plants. Excessive harvesting has resulted in degradation and reduction of diversity. Cultivation or seeding in nature could reduce the process of destruction, but the seed germination capacity of these species is limited. Methods of seed enhancement such as seed priming can improve these problems. In this research, the possibility of germination improvement of Silybum marianum (L.) Gaertn. was investigated by using potassium nitrate treatment. Different concentrations of 0, 1, 2 and 3 percent of the solution of KNO3 were applied for 24 and 48 hours at 25 °C. An experiment was conducted in a factorial arrangement with a completely randomized design with three replications. The germination components (germination percentage, germination rate, seedling, root length, shoot length, seedling length, root and shoot fresh and dry weight) were measured in laboratory conditions (petri dish) and cultivation trays. Also, the leaf area index determined. Results showed significant differences in time interaction and different concentrations of KNO3 in germination rate, shoot fresh weight, shoot dry weight, seedling dry weight and leaf area index. In the experiments designed in the petri dish, the interaction between time and various concentrations of KNO3 affected all measured factors except shoot and seedling dry weight (P<0.01). The optimum treatment was 1% concentration and 24 hours, which is caused a significant increase compared to control in the studied traits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the recent years chemical control of weeds has become a dominant method of weed control. The heavy use of these chemicals has had a negative impact on the environment and human health. So this study tries to investigate the analysis paddy farmers' knowledge about integrated weed management (IWM) in Iran. The study was done by a descriptive-surveying method that including field and documentary data. The population of the study consisted of selected Dooreh - CHegeni farmers that cultivation wheat and rice together. Sample population was selected by using the Cochran formula (n=198). The main instrument used in this study was a questionnaire. The validity of research tool was obtained by the idea of experts and for reliability of questionnaires a pilot test was conducted. The Cronbach' Alpha coefficient of higher than 0.7 showed that research tool was reliable (learning style (0.818), economic characteristic (0.700) and social characteristic (0.723) respectively). The result of correlation analysis showed that the variables such as: belief in discussion with other farmers about sustainable weed management, the importance of dialogue and implement the recommendations of experts, quality and quantity of extension programs, attitude towards the impact of SWM (Sustainable Weed Management) on healthy crop production and farmers 'attitude toward the effects of this type of management on increasing production has a significant effect on farmers' awareness of integrated weed management in the field The results also showed that farmers' use of appropriate seed (weed-free) and farmers' appropriate attitude toward discussion with other farmers about integrated weed management in the field is the most important variable could be predicted the rice farmers' knowledge of IWM(Integrated Weed Management) in the field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heat stress causes physiological changes, and changes in hematological parameters and hormonal levels in the human body, known as thermal strain. This study was conducted to determine the effect of exposure to heat stress on hematological parameters and oxidative stress in the bakers of Shahroud City, Iran. A total of 163 bakery workers (exposed group) and 135 office workers (unexposed group) with a minimum of 1-year working experience were selected. Exposure to heat stress was measured using ISO-7243 criteria on the hottest days of the year (late July and August). Wet-bulb globe temperature (WBGT) was calculated based on indoor environments. Oxidative stress indices including malondialdehyde (MDA), nitric oxide (NO), total antioxidant capacity (TAC) in the bakers' and office workers' serum and hematological parameters were measured. Statistical analysis was done through independent t -test, and multivariate linear regression using SPSS v24. Analysis of hematological parameters showed that about 70% and 68% of the bakers had abnormal mean cell volume (MCV) and white blood cell (WBC) count, respectively, while only around 12% of them had abnormal mean cell hemoglobin concentration (MCHC). The counts of red blood cells (RBC), WBC, lymphocytes (LYM), and MCV showed significant differences in different occupational groups (p < 0.05). The levels of MDA and NO were significantly higher in bakers with WBGT more than the threshold value (p < 0.05). The WBGT index for assessing heat stress can be used as a predictor variable for MDA and NO levels. In addition, heat stress exposure could be a risk factor for abnormal WBC, RBC, LYM, and MCV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: This study was designed to investigate the possible effect of exposure to extremely low frequency electromagnetic fields (ELF‐EMFs) on occupational burnout syndrome and the severity of depression experienced among thermal power plant workers and the role of oxidative stress. Methods: In this cross‐sectional study, 115 power plant workers and 124 administrative personnel of a hospital were enrolled as exposed and unexposed groups, respectively, based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. Levels of oxidative stress biomarkers, including malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (Cat), and total antioxidant capacity were measured in serum samples. Exposure to electric and magnetic fields was measured using the IEEE Std C95.3.1 standard at each workstation. The burnout syndrome and the severity of depression were assessed using the Maslach Burnout and Beck Depression Inventory. Results: The levels of MDA and SOD were significantly lower in the exposed group than the unexposed group. The exposed group reported a higher prevalence of burnout syndrome and higher depression severity. Multiple linear regression showed that work experience, MDA level, and levels of exposure to magnetic fields are the most important predictor variables for burnout syndrome and severity of depression. In addition, a decrease in the level of Cat was significantly associated with increased burnout syndrome. Conclusion: The thermal power plant workers exposed to ELF‐EMFs are at risk of burnout syndrome and depression. These effects may be caused directly by exposure to magnetic fields or indirectly due to increased oxidative stress indices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]