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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]

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.

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]

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]

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]

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]

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]

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]

Once blackouts occur the system operators should re‐energise the affected system in the shortest time. To attain this, restoration plans should be developed beforehand. A deliberate restoration plan considers the supply duration of the cranking power to non‐black‐start units (NBSUs), besides the static and dynamic constraints of the power system. Hence, there should be a method to estimate the restoration duration of NBSUs considering the failure in breakers operating mechanism and the stochastic nature of restoration actions. Accordingly, in this study, generally distributed transition stochastic Petri net is employed to calculate the supply duration of NBSUs, critical loads and the execution time of restoration actions. This is significant because the planners can validate their restoration plans from the NBSUs critical times' point of view or determine energisation time of critical loads. The proposed method has been applied in three test cases, two of these are used for benchmarking, and the other one is a part of Iran bulk power system, which includes a real black‐start test. The results show the effectiveness of the method in estimating the restoration duration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Score equivalency of two Computer-Based Testing (henceforth CBT) and Paper-and-Pencil-Based Testing (henceforth PBT) versions has turned into a controversial issue during the last decade in Iran. The comparability of mean scores obtained from two CBT and PBT formats of test should be investigated to see if test takers' testing performance is influenced by the effects of testing administration mode. This research was conducted to examine score equivalency across modes as well as the relationship of gender, and testing mode preference with test takers' performance on computerized testing. The information on testing mode preference and attitudes towards CBT and its features was supported by a focus group interview. Findings indicated that the scores of test takers were not different in both modes and there was no statistically significant relationship between moderator above variables and CBT performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, new steady-state analysis is proposed for a series resonant converter (SRC) that provides closed-form expressions for converter waveforms. Using the proposed analysis, explicit equations are obtained to design the converter components. It is shown that an SRC can be modeled through a nonlinear differential equation with discontinuous inputs. A Laplace-based theorem (LBT) is provided to obtain the steady-state analytic solution of the resonant converter differential equations. Using the LBT, a flowchart is proposed to analyze the converter where the nonlinearity of differential equation is removed by defining intermediate variables. The variable duty ratio SRC is analyzed using the proposed flowchart. Accurate, closed-form, and explicit equations for converter waveforms, voltage gain, current phase lag, zero voltage switching, and discontinuous conduction mode boundaries are derived. The proposed analysis is compared with conventional methods and its accuracy is validated through simulations and experimental results. Moreover, using the proposed method, a novel procedure is provided for the optimal design of the converter and is compared with conventional design approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Noise, emitted by wind turbines, is one of the main health risk factors which has been recently considered in many researches. Noise annoyance is among the most important human responses to noise. The aim of this work was to modeling of annoyance due to noise at workplace coming from wind turbines in workers. All workers of a wind power plant consisted the study sample. The equivalent noise level was measured using a task-based method. Moreover, data related to noise annoyance and noise sensitivity were acquired by standardized methods. Based on the results, noise exposure, noise sensitivity, visibility, age, and experience affected noise annoyance. According to path analysis, the most indirect and direct effect on noise annoyance were attributed to noise exposure. Age, sensitivity, and noise exposure were positively associated to annoyance. It can be concluded that there is a significant relationship between age, experience, sensitivity to noise, and exposure to the wind turbine noise with noise annoyance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Lower Cretaceous siliciclastic fluvial to shallow marine Shurijeh–Shatlyk formations together form one of the main reservoir successions in the Kopeh Dagh–Amu Darya Basin (NE Iran, Turkmenistan, and north of Afghanistan). Sedimentary facies and thickness changes in the Shurijeh–Shatlyk formations show complex variations throughout the basin, which highlight the importance of understanding the controlling factors on facies distribution and depositional setting for future hydrocarbon exploration. Integration of 3D seismic data, 13 boreholes, and five surface stratigraphic sections led to identification of lithofacies and facies associations. The results allow subdivision of this siliciclastic succession into four stratigraphic units (A, B, C, and D). Our study indicates that base‐level changes interacted with palaeotopography inherited from Middle Jurassic basin rifting, Upper Jurassic carbonate reefs/patch reef distributions, and reactivation of the deep basin faults, to control the Shurijeh–Shatlyk depositional setting and sedimentary facies distribution. Our findings show that the Aghdarband and Badkhyz–Maimana palaeo‐highs affected the Kopeh Dagh–Amu Darya Basin throughout deposition of the Shurijeh–Shatlyk formations. Allogeneic processes and active tectonics, related to the Valanginian Late Cimmerian Orogeny, caused a base‐level fall, exposure of Upper Jurassic carbonate sediments, and deposition of a carbonate pebbly conglomerate unit in the western part of the study area. This base‐level fall led to the deposition of thick evaporites in the western area and conglomerate in the eastern parts of the Kopeh Dagh. Due to a Hauterivian sea‐/base‐level rise, several deltas formed in the basin, which form the main reservoir zone in the Murgab Depression and Khangiran Field in Turkmenistan and Iran. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new inverter control approach, called enhanced virtual synchronous machine (eVSM), is proposed based on the VSM concept. Unlike existing VSM approaches, the eVSM does not emulate the rotating inertia based on an assumption of the unlimited energy storage, but it deploys the physically existing inertia of the dc-link element. The eVSM adopts an innovative way of enlarging the inertia utilization range, which obviates the need for having a large dc-link element or a dedicated battery storage system, while still providing the same inertia response of an equivalent synchronous machine. Theoretical developments and numerical results presented in this paper confirm that the proposed eVSM can present a stabilizing support to the grid similar to a synchronous machine despite the small size of its dc-link element. Moreover, its transient responses can be improved beyond those of conventional synchronous machines thanks to the possibility of more flexibly adjusting damping and governor functions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Learning could not be thought of as unrelated to cognitive processes and cognitive processes are not unrelated to affective ones; thus, the current study tried to empirically examine the influence of Emotion Based Language Instruction (EBLI) in fostering teaching oral skills to EFL learners. An IELTS test was utilized to measure the progress of both control and experimental groups at the beginning of the research and also at the end. The content of the material chosen to be taught for experimental group was selectively written based on the Metric of Emotioncy designed by Pishghadam (2016). The differences in scores of pre and posttest of IELTS were statistically calculated to observe the effect of EBLI. The results revealed a significant change in speaking skill in experimental group and a change in listening skill, though it was not statistically significant. The results of the current investigation can increase the knowledge on applying EBLI in teaching foreign/second languages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Quality of Working Life (QWL) is a vital concept in the employees' life which can confirm the efficiency of the organisation and job satisfaction of employees. Aim: The present study investigated the interactive effects of background variables (job and demographic characteristics) and workload parameters on the Work-Related Quality of Life (WRQoL) among nurses working in highly complex hospital units (ICU, CCU and Emergency). Materials and Methods: This was a cross-sectional study conducted in 2017, among all male and female volunteer nurses (n=840). For this purpose, NASA-Task Load Index (NASA-TLX) and WRQoL were used. A general questionnaire was also used to collect the job and demographic information of nurses. The statistical analyses were performed through MANOVA, tests between-subject's effects, Box's M, pair-wise comparisons, Bonferroni method, and multiple regression. Results: The findings indicated that the difference in mean score of WRQoL was statistically significant in all groups of the studied background variables except gender and Body Mass Index (BMI). The relationship between the variables of age, work experience, and the number of patients per shift and scores of work-related quality of life was statistically significant. Also, based on the results of multivariate regression analysis, the variables of overtime hours, the number of patients per shift, age, and the level of workload remained in the regression model and their coefficients of influence were estimated -43%, -23%, -19%, and -15%, respectively. Conclusion: The results indicated the simultaneous effect of the studied variables on the nurses' WRQoL. Of these, the variables of overtime hours, the number of patients per shift, age, and workload level were finally kept in the regression model to explain the most percentage of changes in the WRQoL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study was conducted to investigate whether test scores of Iranian English as Foreign Language (EFL) learners were equivalent across CBT and PBT modes, with 58 intermediate learners studying at a private language academy located in Behshahr city in northern Iran. Moreover, test takers' computer familiarity, attitudes, aversion, and testing mode preference were regarded as the potential issues to influence CBT test scores. Data were collected using CBT and PBT versions of Nelson Proficiency Multiple-Choice Tests and Computer Aversion, Attitudes, and Familiarity Index (CAAFI) questionnaire as well as a simple testing administration mode preference question. The participants produced similar scores across modes, although they insignificantly outperformed on the CBT version. Additionally, analysis of the overall scores on the CAAFI and mode preference question obtained from CBT testing session indicated no statistically significant correlation between computer familiarity, attitude, aversion, and mode preference variables and test takers' CBT scores. The qualitative findings of this study obtained by semi-structured interview revealed that most of the participants showed high preference and more advantages for CBT over PBT to rationalize why they preferred this mode of testing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, a combined ON/OFF and conformal mapping method is applied to the permanent magnet shape optimisation of the surface-mounted permanent magnet synchronous motor (SPMSM). The magnet shape has a profound impact on the cogging torque and torque profile of the SPMSM. The proposed method is based on the combination of the conformal mapping and ON/OFF methods, which can reduce computation time significantly as compared with methods that are based on the finite-element method (FEM). For the optimisation process, genetic algorithms are used and applied to three cases. Finally, the FEM is used to verify the magnetic model and characteristics of the optimised machine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Affective factors play a role in learning in general and language learning in particular. The current study tried to empirically examine the influence of one of these factors namely 'Emotional Intelligence' to check its influence on Speaking Skill. Participants were Intermediate level students who took the IELTS test (International English Language Testing System), so that the researchers could evaluate their proficiency in speaking skill at the beginning of the project. Next, the Emotional Intelligence of them was calculated and afterwards Emotional Intelligence (EI) was taught. After a one-educational-year course of simultaneously teaching EI and Speaking skill, the same IELTS along with the Emotional Quotient (EQ) questionnaire was administered in experimental and control group. To observe the development in each category, the difference in scores of both EQ and IELTS test (pre-test and post-test) were calculated. Ultimately, it was found that both EQ and speaking skill of the learners in treatment group were developed in a significant way whereas only speaking skill of control group progressed but it was not significant. The findings of the study can contribute in the promotion of the knowledge on the effect of EI in language learning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Initial low cost of pesticides and lack of knowledge on the part of agricultural producers has led to an overuse of pesticides, with dangerous consequences. On the other hand, today, pesticides have an important role in the increment of agriculture products. Therefore, in recent years, the major aims of agricultural, environmental and even the food industry researchers have been to reduce the usage of chemical materials in agricultural applications. To achieve this, variable rate application in sprayers using different technologies such as machine vision, ultrasonic sensors, spectrometry, laser scanning, as well as pest identification and classification, have been applied in recent studies. This paper reviews these works reported in the 21 century. In addition, the best result is suggested in the conclusion section for future studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

English language is an important international language and a considerable part of time and expenses is devoted to learning it. Since many academicians and common people invest a lot of time on learning it, an increase in learning speed is certainly an urgent need. The current study tried to empirically examine the influence of an affective factor namely Emotional Intelligence on Reading Skill as affective factors play a role in learning in general and language learning in particular. Intermediate EFL learners in Iran were given an IELTS test for evaluating their reading proficiency. Next, the Emotional Quotient of the subjects were calculated and after that teaching Emotional Intelligence was started. The subjects received instructions for one year on both Emotional Intelligence and Reading Skill. The difference in scores of both Emotional Intelligence and IELTS tests were then statistically calculated to observe the progress in each issue. The findings of the study showed a significant progress both in Emotional Intelligence and Reading Skill of the subjects in the experimental group, but no significance was observed in the control group. The results of the present research could help develop the knowledge on Emotional Intelligence enhancement and its possible effect(s) on language learning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Working at height has always been considered as one of the most dangerous industrial activities. Workers' fitness including their physical and psychological ability plays a key role in prevention of occupational accidents. This research was conducted to investigate the physical and mental fitness of telecommunication tower climbers as well as their job stress. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among employees of a contracting company which worked in the field of telecommunication tower installation in Iran during 2016. Sixty out of 93 workers voluntarily participated in this study. Data collection tools were the Persian version of the Work Ability Index (WAI), the Persian version of the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) Stress Indicator Tool and an author-developed measure to assess socio-demographic characteristics. Data was analyzed through statistical tests such as independent t-test, univariate analyses of variance (ANOVAs), Pearson's correlation coefficient, and multivariate linear regression; using SPSS 1 9 software. Results: Workers' mean ± SD WAI score was 29.17± 10.33 and for work-related stress was 3.08 ± 1.80. There was a significant relation between WAI and educational level, job tenure, hours of sleep per day, regular exercise, and second job. The repression modeling explained 67.4% of the total variance (adjusted R2) 0f the WAI score. Among the dimensions of work related stress, control (β = 0.21) and changes (β = -0. 40) were significant predictors of the WAI score. Conclusions: To improve the worker's work ability, intervention programs should focus on promoting level of job control, sleep quality and exercise. Additionally, implementing a comprehensive macroergonomics and participatory program for increase involvement the workers in organization changes should be considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction Work-related stress and its causes are among the most important issues which can seriously challenge organizational efficiency and employees' health. Different occupational environments and groups have different levels of job stress. The present study aimed to investigate relationships between job stress and its dimensions with three occupational groups (administrative, administrative-operational, and operational) among a subsidiary company workers of Iranian Oil Refining and Distribution Company. Methods The present study had descriptive-analytical and cross-sectional type and was conducted among 468 out of 503 employees (with entry condition of a year of work experience as well as an official and contractual membership) volunteered to participate in research. Data collection tools included demographic questions and job stress questionnaire as well as human resource department information to determine occupational group of employees. Descriptive statistics, statistical tests, Independent test, and oneway ANOVA in addition to SPSS 21 software were used for data analysis. Results There were significant relationships between age, education levels, work experience and smoking with mean score of job stress (P-value <0.05). Mean score of employees' job stress in operational occupation group was significantly higher than other two occupational groups (P-value=0.004), and there were significant relationships between employees' occupational group variables with five dimensions of job stress (demand, relationships and role, managerial support, and peer support) (P-value<0.05). There were not any significant relationships between other variables and job stress (Pvalue> 0.05). Conclusions Exposure to different occupational harmful agents, facing with different safety risks, being far from family, heavy workload, and uncertain employee roles have significantly increased job stress in both operational and executive occupation groups compared to other two occupational groups; hence, there is a positive correlation between high job stress and operational jobs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]