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This study proposes the optimum design of chevron braced friction dampers (CBFDs) for the vulnerability control of steel moment–resisting frames (SMRFs) under mainshock-aftershock (MS-AS) sequences. First, the optimum parameters of the CBFD systems installed in the stories of an inelastic SMRF are found through minimizing the maximum damage index of stories averaged over seven scaled earthquake excitations. The uniform distribution of the story damage along the height of the controlled SMRF is adopted as constraint in the optimization procedure. The damage index is calculated based on the Park-Ang damage model which is expressed based on a linear combination of deformation, moment, and absorbed hysteretic energy of structural elements imposed by an earthquake excitation. Results reveal that the optimized CBFDs-equipped SMRF exhibits better distribution of the story damage than that of the uncontrolled SMRF. Finally, the vulnerability assessment of the optimized CBFDs-equipped SMRF under MS and MS-AS ground motions is investigated by the fragility curves. The fragility assessment emphasize that the optimized CBFDs effectively mitigate the seismic vulnerability of the controlled SMRF under MS-AS sequences at different damage states. • The optimum design of CBFDs was proposed for the vulnerability control of SMRFs under MS-AS sequences. • The maximum of the damage index of stories was considered as the objective function. • The objective function was averaged over seven scaled earthquake excitations. • The uniform distribution of the damage along the height of SMRF was defined as a constraint. • The CBFDs-equipped SMRF enhances structural/overall system performance under MS-AS sequences in all damage states. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Given the emergence of SARS-CoV-2 virus as a life-threatening pandemic, identification of immunodominant epitopes of the viral structural proteins, particularly the nucleocapsid (NP) protein and receptor-binding domain (RBD) of spike protein, is important to determine targets for immunotherapy and diagnosis. In this study, epitope screening was performed using a panel of overlapping peptides spanning the entire sequences of the RBD and NP proteins of SARS-CoV-2 in the sera from 66 COVID-19 patients and 23 healthy subjects by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Our results showed that while reactivity of patients' sera with reduced recombinant RBD protein was significantly lower than the native form of RBD (P  < 0.001), no significant differences were observed for reactivity of patients' sera with reduced and non-reduced NP protein. Pepscan analysis revealed weak to moderate reactivity towards different RBD peptide pools, which was more focused on peptides encompassing amino acids (aa) 181–223 of RBD. NP peptides, however, displayed strong reactivity with a single peptide covering aa 151–170. These findings were confirmed by peptide depletion experiments using both ELISA and western blotting. Altogether, our data suggest involvement of mostly conformational disulfide bond-dependent immunodominant epitopes in RBD-specific antibody response, while the IgG response to NP is dominated by linear epitopes. Identification of dominant immunogenic epitopes in NP and RBD of SARS-CoV-2 could provide important information for the development of passive and active immunotherapy as well as diagnostic tools for the control of COVID-19 infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Placement of Vegetated Filter Strips (VFS) along roadways may facilitate removal of nutrients from stormwater runoff. The objective of this research is to compare water quality performance of a VFS containing engineered media to that of typical Florida sandy soil. Storms of variable intensity were simulated over two 1:1 scale physical models of typical one- and two-lane roadway shoulders, one with engineered media (treatment), and one without (control). Simulated roadway runoff was introduced as sheet flow from the roadway and precipitation was applied with a rainfall simulator. Samples of runoff and infiltrate were tested for Dissolved Oxygen (DO) concentration and pH at regular intervals along each model and analyzed to detect changes both in time and location. Within four hours of the experiment start, pH decreased on average by 0.74 ± 0.21 in the treatment model, and less so (by 0.39 ± 0.16) in the control model (p<0.0001). pH continued to decrease with time in both models, though more significantly in the treatment model. The DO saturation decreased in the treatment model by a mean 12.18 ± 18.54% and increased in the control model by a mean 6.74 ± 13.21% over 4 hours (p<0.001). However, DO monitoring over 72 hours indicated minimum DO concentrations of 5.83 ± 1.28 mg/L and 7.84 ± 0.92 mg/L in treatment and control models, respectively, suggesting that pore water was not oxygen limited. This analysis provides a deeper understanding of how nutrient removal processes may have varied within each media type. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present research aims at examining the role of consumer-brand identification (CBI) in attitude toward brand extension regarding the congruency between the values of consumers and brands. In this way, the benefits of CBI to consumers and brand managers are outlined. This research has been conducted through designing a survey and collecting data through a questionnaire. For data mining and investigating the model, the SEM approach is implemented. According to the findings, high levels of CBI lead to positive attitudes toward the brand extension, and that value congruity positively impacts this relationship. The results outline that CBI impacts fit and tie in separate ways, so that CBI effect on fit is more substantial. Furthermore, according to the results, in comparison to the role of tie, the role of fit is more significant in predicting attitudes toward brand extension. The sample from university students is appropriate for testing theory, but limits generalizing the results of the research. In addition, this research has studied one product category and is limited in this perspective. The findings have remarkable recommendations for implementing brand extension as they emphasize the role of perceived fit. Moreover, by reexamining CBI in a less known market, the research has outlined its positive outcomes for firms. This research has used perceived tie in a brand extension context and, similar to perceived fit, has implemented it as another factor to predict attitude toward brand extension. In addition, this research is unique, as it has investigated CBI in a new context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The knowledge of the astonishing diversity of intracellular, photosynthetic dinoflagellates in the family Symbiodiniaceae, which have crucial symbioses with scleractinian corals, is essential to anticipate the adaptive response of corals to environmental stressors. Coral reefs in the northern Persian Gulf (nPG) and Gulf of Oman (nGO) experience a wide range of natural (e.g., high and low water temperature, high salinity) and anthropogenic (e.g., different levels of turbidity) disturbances, and so are excellent models to study the effects of these conditions on the biogeography of symbiotic alga. In this regard, the algal component of an acroporid coral was genotyped using chloroplastic 23S, nuclear 28S and the internal transcribed spacer 2 of ribosomal DNA across the nPG and nGO. Two genera (three distinct taxa) were detected, all of which corresponded to previously reported phylogenetic lineages. Durusdinium trenchii was found to be widely distributed in nearly all examined locations in the nPG and nGO. The turbid waters of the nGO and the harsh conditions in the eastern nPG may to some extent explain the ecological success of D. trenchii in these areas. However, in the westernmost nPG (Kharkoo Island), Acropora sp. solely harbored Cladocopium thermophilum. The occurrence of this thermotolerant species only at the westernmost nPG (with higher salinity and water clarity) may reveal the potency of low salinity and excessive turbidity as distribution barriers for the association of these symbiont lineages and corals (at least acroporids) outside the Persian Gulf. Highlights • Acroporids enduring extreme conditions harbor tolerant lineages of Symbiodiniaceae. • Cladocopium thermophilum was found in the northwestern Persian Gulf. • Rest of the northern Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman were dominated by Durusdinium trenchii. • Salinity and turbidity may act as distribution barriers for C. thermophilum. • Acropora corals were host to C. thermophilum in the northwestern Persian Gulf. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper addresses the problem of energy consumption management of a large population of plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs). A PHEV can be derived either on its gasoline or the battery modes while traveling, and can be either charged from or discharged to the grid while parking at home, respectively. This feature is the main novel consideration in our system model, besides taking into account the constraints like traveling time and distance, and the bounds on the charging power and state of charge of the battery. On the basis of the proposed model of PHEV, the optimal battery-gasoline energy management strategy is obtained in order to minimize the cost of energy and battery degradation for each user. Such a strategy can also compensate the peak load. Since the strategy of each PHEV affects other users’ cost through the electricity price, we model such an interaction as a game problem and we prove that there exist a unique Nash equilibrium point of the game. Then, due to the fact that the effect of a single PHEV of a large population on the other users’ costs is negligible, the theory of mean filed (MF) game is utilized to develop a decentralized control strategy for PHEVs. The lightweight information exchange of the proposed MF algorithm ensures a low computational cost and communication overhead. The proof of convergence for the proposed algorithm is given and it is shown that as the number of PHEVs goes to infinity the MF optimal strategy of the players converges to the unique Nash equilibrium point of the game. In simulation results, the effectiveness of the proposed method in terms of demand side management, peak shaving, convergence rate, and robustness is studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Processes underlying the temporal and spatial variations observed in the distribution of jellyfish and non-gelatinous zooplankton in the Gulf of Oman are not well understood. This information gap is clearly a major issue in controlling the harmful blooms of jellyfish and non-gelatinous zooplankton. Samples of jellyfish and non-gelatinous zooplankton were collected from six stations in Chabahar Bay and three stations in Pozm Bay within four seasons. At each station, environmental variables were also recorded from bottom and surface water. A total of 83 individuals of medusae representing four species of Scyphozoa (i.e., Cyanea nozakii, Chrysaora sp., Pelagia noctiluca, Catostylus tagi) and species of Hydrozoa (i.e., Diphyes sp., Rhacostoma sp., Aequorea spp.) were observed in the study area. A total of 70,727.25 individuals/m-3 of non-gelatinous zooplankton dominated by copepods and cladocerans were collected in nine stations within the four seasons. The results of a RELATE analysis yielded no significant association between species composition for jellyfish and non-gelatinous zooplankton. Among environmental variables, water transparency, nitrite concentration, water depth and temperature were better associated with the total variation in jellyfish species composition than with that of non-gelatinous zooplankton. Dissolved oxygen, pH, and phosphate concentration were significant environmental variables associated with the variation in the spatial and temporal distribution patterns of non-gelatinous zooplankton assemblages. Although some jellyfish species (i.e., Rhacostoma sp., Pelagia noctiluca, Catostylus tagi) occur independently of non-gelatinous zooplankton assemblages, other jellyfish (i.e., Chrysaora sp., Aequorea spp., Cyanea nozakii, Diphyes sp.) are strongly correlated with non-gelatinous zooplankton assemblages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Sugar- and artificially-sweetened beverage consumption have been connected to cardio metabolic hazard factors, which rise the danger of cerebrovascular illness and dementia. Purpose: We studied whether sugar or artificially sweetened beverage intake was related with the prospective dangers of incident stroke or dementia. Materials and methods: We studied 361 members aged more than 45 years for incident stroke (mean age 61 [SD, 10] years; 163 men) and 185 participants aged >60 years for incident dementia (mean age 68 [SD, 7] years; 85 men). Beverage consumption was computed using a food-frequency questionnaire at cohort studies. We quantified latest consumption at investigation 7 and cumulative intake by averaging across examinations. Surveillance for incident events commenced at examination 7 and continued for 5 years. We observed 12 cases of incident stroke (10 ischemic) and 10 cases of incident dementia (8 consistent with Alzheimer's disease). Results: After modifications for age, gender, education (for analysis of dementia), caloric consumption, diet feature, physical activity, and smoking, higher recent and higher cumulative consumption of artificially sweetened soft drinks were related with an increased risk of ischemic stroke, all-cause dementia, and Alzheimer's disease dementia. When comparing day-to-day aggregate consumption to 0 per week (reference), the risk ratios were 2.87 (95% confidence interval, 1.24-6.89) for ischemic stroke and 2.91 (95% confidence interval, 1.15-6.99) for Alzheimer's disease. Sugar-sweetened beverages were not associated with stroke or dementia. Conclusions: Artificially sweetened soft drink consumption was allied with a higher risk of stroke and dementia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human activities have increased in the Caspian Sea in last decades, impacting the coastal zone ecosystems. One of the increasing activities is recreation, including bathing areas in the south of the Caspian Sea, which have been scarcely studied and assessed. Investigating the interactions between human activities and the resulting environmental status in bathing areas, by using adequate indicators and assessment methods, is necessary to undertake management measures for ecosystem restoration. In this study, for the first time, we use the Nested Environmental status Assessment Tool (NEAT) outside the European waters to assess environmental status in bathing waters, to differentiate areas impacted and non-impacted by bathing activities. We have assessed the status in winter and summer seasons, by combining multiple indicators from different ecosystem components (8 physico-chemical, 4 bacteria, 2 plankton, and 1 benthos indicators). Despite the interactions between season and human affection, NEAT determined that the Caspian Seas is not in good status, differentiating, in summer, between impacted and non-impacted bathing areas, with a significant correlation with the number of beach users. Accordingly, management measures should be taken in the southern Caspian Sea to improve the environmental status in general and that of bathing areas in particular. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study is to appraise the photocatalytic degradation of imidacloprid pesticide in an aqueous solution. To this end, imidacloprid was degraded using TiO2nanoparticles immobilized on a glass plate under UV light illumination. The effects of operational parameters (initial concentration of imidacloprid, pH, and light intensity) on the activity of TiO2nanophotocatalyst and the kinetics of the reaction were investigated. The results indicated that TiO2had impressive photocatalytic proficiency in the presence of UV-C light irradiation for the removal of imidacloprid from the aqueous solution. The highest efficiency for the removal of imidacloprid (R% = 90.24) was obtained in the initial concentration of 20 mg L−1imidacloprid, pH = 5, and light intensity of 17 W m−2after 180 min. The results of the mineralization studies represented a subtractive trend of total organic carbon (TOC) and an increase in the mineralization products during the reaction time. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

In this study, Ag-ZnO nanophotocatalyst has been synthesized through microemulsion technique and the effect of silver modification on ZnO nanorods has been evaluated. The photocatalytic activity of nanocatalyst was examined by degradation of Acid Yellow 23 (AY23) as a model of mono azo dye under UV illumination. Ag-ZnO catalyst was characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDXS) and diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS) analysis. The degradation of AY23 was studied under different operational parameters. Results show that the photocatalytic reaction followed the pseudo-first-order kinetic. The highest photocatalytic degradation of 20 mg/L AY23 dye solution under UV irradiation (light intensity = 50 W/m2 , [Ag-ZnO]0 = 400 mg/L with 2 wt% Ag doped ZnO, calcined at 450 °C) was about 93.3% during 30 minutes of reaction that shows an enhancement in comparison to pure ZnO which was 65.48%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective karstification assessment is a key component of hydrogeological studies of aquifers. In this research, surface and subsurface karst development have been assessed, based on different methods, to get insights into karstification processes in the area of the Cheshme-Ali karstic aquifer, located in northeast Iran. GIS information, remote sensing, and field measurements of fracture density and frequency have been used to determine surface karst development. The monthly spring discharge rate and physicochemical parameters of the Cheshmeh-Ali Spring in 2003-2004 were used to determine subsurface karstification rate. Additional monthly measurements of discharge rate and chemical parameters were carried out in 2010-2011. The evaluation of surface karstification (Sk) illustrates moderate karstification of 51.47 percent. The response of the aquifer to precipitation shows the impact of one or more conduits in the water level fluctuation zone that generate a rapid response of the spring to large precipitation events. The spring hydrograph analysis indicates a pseudo-diffuse flow system in the region. The hydrograph and chemograph analyses demonstrate average subsurface karstification index of 1.7 m. Finally, it is concluded that although both methods demonstrate karstification processes in an aquifer, these kind of reservoirs still require more intelligible approaches, as well as comparable methods for their description. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The impacts of a beach seine fishery on macroinvertebrate communities and sediment characteristics were investigated in the Southwest Caspian Sea. Samples from a single impacted site that was regularly seined were compared with two control sites outside the fishing area. Benthic macroinvertebrates were sampled on four occasions: 6 months prior to the opening of the beach seine fishery (Time 1), 1 day immediately after the closing of beach seining (Time 2), 1 week after closing (Time 3), and 1 month after closing (Time 4). No significant differences were detected in total density, Shannon diversity, or evenness of the macroinvertebrate assemblages between impact and control sites. Unlike density, species richness increased significantly immediately after fishery closure at all sites. A significant difference was detected in the number of species between Time 2 and Time 3 at all sites and the number of species was reduced at Time 4 in all sites. Pontogammarids increased by twofold in the impact site 1 day immediately after closing beach seine fishery and leveled off toward the end of the closed season. The amplified density of pontogammarids 1 day after fishery closing at the impact site might be driven in part by an increase in sediment oxygen content resulting from disturbance of the sea floor. An alternative explanation is that the effect of fish predation on pontogammarids has largely been minimized at the impact site after 6 months of continuous fishing activity. No significant changes in the sedimentary organic content and chlorophyll- a between the impact and control sites were observed during the courses of sampling; however, a significant change occurred between the average sedimentary pheopigment content of the control sites and that of the impact site. The conclusion from the present study is that beach seine fishery does not harm to benthic communities. The closed season also seemed to allow recovery to pre-season levels of macroinvertebrate richness and sedimentary chlorophyll- a. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a new strategy for treating excess nutrients in roadway runoff, a self-filtering roadway could be accomplished by including engineered infiltration media within a vegetated filter strip (VFS) located in the roadway shoulder. However, nutrient removal performance will depend on the design to effectively infiltrate roadway runoff and the capacity of subsurface media to sequester or remove nutrients from infiltrated runoff. The objective of this study is to test hydraulic and nutrient removal performance of a roadside VFS over varied rainfall-runoff event sizes and filter widths. Two identical 1:1 scale physical models of roadway shoulders and embankments, one containing engineered media (Treatment model) and the other without (Control model), were tested with simulated rainfall and runoff from 1- and 2-lane roadways. Overall, 32 paired hydraulic experiments and 28 paired nutrient removal experiments were completed to assess performance across frequent and extreme rainfall-runoff events. The results indicate that scalability of performance with filter width varied by parameter. Runoff generation scaled predictably with filter width, as runoff generated close to the pavement and total infiltration increased with filter length. A 6 m-wide VFS containing the engineered media infiltrated all rainfall-runoff except during the most extreme storm events (1-h storms of 76.2 mm and 50.8 mm), where respectively 35% and 22% of rainfall-runoff did not infiltrate and left the system as surface runoff. A majority of phosphorus was retained within a 1.5 m filter while nitrate removal was not observed until 6 m. The Treatment model strongly outperformed the Control model with respect to nitrate (arithmetic mean ± standard deviation of 94 ± 6% reduction vs. 23 ± 64% increase, p <.001) and total nitrogen removal (80 ± 5% vs. 38 ± 23% reduction, p <.001) due to higher rates of microbially-mediated denitrification in the Treatment model. The two models performed comparably with regard to phosphorus reduction (84 ± 9% vs. 82 ± 12% reduction). A minimum 6 m filter width is recommended to ensure sufficient infiltration of runoff and nitrogen removal. Results of this study address uncertainty regarding nutrient removal performance of VFS in urban runoff applications and highlight a potential strategy for standardizing VFS performance across varied soil properties by including engineered media within the filter. [Display omitted] • Engineered media can be used within a road shoulder VFS to treat urban runoff. • A VFS with engineered media removed more nitrate and total nitrogen than sandy soil. • Denitrification rates were greater in engineered media than in sandy soil. • Greatest nitrogen removal was observed with a 6 m filter width. • Infiltration rate through engineered media was adequate for roadway drainage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ever-increasing anthropogenic activities have adversely impacted coral reef ecosystems and their ecological functions. This calls for an urgent assessment of the health state of these valuable ecosystems to justify the need for mitigation and proper management efforts. In this contribution, we used multiple indicators to assess the impact of intense oil-related activities on coral reefs in two near-by impacted and non-impacted islands in the northwestern Persian Gulf. The efficacy of indices was assessed using estimations of the effect size (omega-squared), precision, and decision trees (Classification and Regression Tree (CART)). The results demonstrated that the combination of bioaccumulation of ƩPAH in coral tissues, the percent of live coral cover, and the Sediment Constituent (SEDCON) Index were the most robust proxies reflecting the influence of human activities on reef's health. Based on sedimentary PAH concentration, the CART classified most of the indicators into two classes consisting of those in impacted and those in non-impacted locations, further supporting the feasibility of the employed indices. The findings of this study provided a warning of degradation in coral reefs of the island subjected to PAH pollution. This encourages decision-makers to execute routine monitoring and mitigation practices to maintain healthy reefs in the study areas. ga1 • Ʃ 15 PAHs were much higher in corals tissue than the ambient sediment and seawater. • Phenanthrene that causes oxidative damage had the highest concentration in corals. • Sedimentary Σ 15 PAH was positively correlated with silt/clay content. • The CART classified most indicators into two classes (impacted vs. non-impacted). • Live coral cover, β-diversity, and SEDCON were reliable oil pollution indicators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Convolutional operations suffer from efficiently capturing global information. • Saliency models can benefit from non-local blocks to capture long-range dependencies. • Non-local blocks make FCNs more efficient in extracting global features. • Non-local neural networks help to find salient similar regions far from each other. • Non-local blocks are effective in extracting global appearance and motion clues. Detection of salient objects in image and video is of great importance in many computer vision applications. In spite of the fact that the state of the art in saliency detection for still images has been changed substantially over the last few years, there have been few improvements in video saliency detection. This paper proposes a novel non-local fully convolutional network architecture for capturing global dependencies more efficiently and investigates the use of recently introduced non-local neural networks in video salient object detection. The effect of non-local operations is studied separately on static and dynamic saliency detection in order to exploit both appearance and motion features. A novel deep non-local fully convolutional network architecture is introduced for video salient object detection and tested on two well-known datasets DAVIS and FBMS. The experimental results show that the proposed algorithm outperforms state-of-the-art video saliency detection methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although natural killer (NK) cells play a crucial role in the maintenance of a successful pregnancy, their cytotoxic activity should be tightly controlled. We hypothesized that endometrial mesenchymal stromal/stem cells (eMSCs) could potentially attenuate the functional features of NK cells. Herein, we assessed immunomodulatory effects of menstrual blood-derived stromal/stem cells (MenSCs), as a surrogate for eMSCs, on NK cells function. Our results showed that MenSCs induced proliferation of NK cells. However, IFN-γ/IL-1β pretreated MenSCs significantly inhibited NK cell proliferation. Of 41 growth factors tested, MenSCs produced lower levels of insulin-like growth factor binding proteins (IGFBPs) 1–4, VEGF-A, β-NGF, and M-CSF compared to bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs). MenSCs displayed high activity of IDO upon IFN-γ treatment. The antiproliferative potential of IFN-γ/IL-1β-pretreated MenSCs was mediated through IL-6 and TGF-β. MenSCs impaired the cytotoxic activity of NK cells on K562 cells, consistent with the lower expression of perforin, granzymes A, and B. We also observed that in vitro decidualization of MenSCs in the presence of IFN-γ reduced the inhibitory effect of MenSCs on NK cell cytotoxicity against K562 target cells. Additionally, MenSCs were found to be prone to NK cell-mediated lysis in an MHC-independent manner. Our findings imply that dysregulation of NK cells in such pregnancy-related disorders as miscarriage may stem from dysfunctioning of eMSCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Variations in environmental factors can alter the species distribution pattern in intertidal rocky shores. The Persian Gulf (PG) and the Gulf of Oman (GO) vary substantially with respect to environmental and oceanographic conditions. The abundance and biodiversity of intertidal rocky gastropods in five locations across the northern PG and the GO were compared, and the environmental variables underlying the distribution pattern of these organisms were investigated. A total of 67 gastropod species were identified. The largest average density (294 ind./m2) and diversity (N = 43) for gastropods occurred in the Hotel Lipar station (LIP) located in Chabahar Bay in the GO. Clypeomorus bifasciata (107.43 ind./m2) followed by Cerithium caeruleum (94.67 ind./m2) were the most abundant species. Planaxis sulcatus and Siphonaria spp. occurred in all locations during both sampling occasions. Species richness and abundance of gastropods showed significant differences between LIP and remaining locations. A significant difference was found in assemblage structure across locations. In general, the species richness and density in the locations at GO were significantly larger than those locations in the PG, suggesting that the harsh environmental condition in the PG might be the forcing factor for this diminish. Distinct grouping was observed in both assemblage structure and species composition between locations in the PG and the GO. The spatial and temporal distribution patterns of gastropods assemblages were significantly correlated with variation in salinity and substrate rugosity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Effects of thermal discharge from Neka power plant on macrobenthic diversity and abundance was studied in the southern coast of the Caspian Sea. Samples were collected with Van Veen grab of 0.0250 m 2 surface area from 7 stations in winter and summer. A total of 42 species were identified that belonged to 22 genera, 18 families, 13 orders, six classes and three phyla. Bivalve with a total abundance of 90% in winter and 86% in summer constituted the most abundant group throughout samplings, the highest abundance of which belonged to the family Cardiidae. Gastropods followed bivalve in total abundance (8%) in summer and polychaetes (7%) in winter. Statistical analysis indicated significantly higher macrobenthos density at the thermal discharge stations that also took separate positions in the cluster analysis. Temperature was an important factor on the amount of organic matter. Chlorophyll and phaeopigment at the thermal discharge stations were lower than the other stations because of the increased turbulence. The CCA test indicated that temperature was the most influential among all the studied physicochemical factors. The Spearman rank correlation coefficient also showed that the majority of macrobenthic groups had a positive correlation with the organic matter (r = 0.34, p < 0.05). Macrobenthic species were grouped according to their commonalities relative to these three classes using a Bray-Curtis similarity index and similarity profile (SIMPROF) permutation tests analysis (PRIMER 6). Based on the SIMPER analysis, the cockle Hypanis minima and the polychaete Hypaniola kowalewskii with high abundances played the most important role in making differences among the stations, but won’t be taken as the “thermal indicating species”. The PERMANOVA test showed that the combination of season and stations had a significant effect. The density of macrobenthos was higher in the thermal discharge stations, but diversity in these stations reduced in comparison with the other stations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Bipolar disorder is a chronic relapsing and mostly severe psychiatric disorder accompanied with a significant psychiatric comorbidity, considerable role impairment, and significant risk of suicide attempts according to recent researches. Mood stabilizers and antipsychotic medications have proved to be effective in managing symptoms for many patients. Nevertheless, medication noncompliance for some patients is a raising concerns. Additional risk for increased symptom severity and relapse when subjected to high levels of psychosocial stress, such as living in a negative family environment has also been reported. Psychosocial treatments, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and family-focused therapy (FFT) were hence introduced in hope of an integrated strategy for the management of bipolar disorder. Objective of the Study: This article is intended to review the optimal approach for the management of bipolar disorder. Advances in biopsychosocial treatments are also briefly reviewed, including new health service models for providing care. Methods: Electronic search in the scientific database from 1960 to 2017- The studies in this comprehensive review were selected for inclusion based on clinical relevance, importance, and robustness of data related to diagnosis and treatment of bipolar disorder. The search terms that were initially used on MEDLINE/PubMed and Google Search terms included "bipolar disorder," "mania," "bipolar depression," "mood stabilizer," "atypical antipsychotics," and "antidepressants." High-quality, recent reviews of major relevant topics were included to supplement the primary studies. Results: Bipolar disorder is a major public health concern. Management includes a lifetime course of medication and attention to psychosocial issues for patients and their families. Standardized treatment guidelines for the management of acute mania have been developed. New potential treatments are being investigated. Conclusion: Bipolar disorder have a very dynamic and chronic nature and thus, careful selection of a treatment should be tailored to the phases of the disorder, together with the safety profile identified in clinical trials. Nevertheless, Psychosocial interventions, such as CBT and FFT should be employed in combination with pharmacological therapy for bipolar patients in order to increase medication compliance, decrease depressive symptoms and recognize early warning signs of an affective episode should ideally help to optimize the course and outcome of this devastating condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Barbatia decussatais a member of intertidal communities occurring at rocky shores in the northern Persian Gulf. Population dynamic for this clam was explored from August 2011 to September 2012 on rocky intertidal shores in the northern Persian Gulf. The results showed that the Ark clam mostly occurred in the middle followed by lower intertidal zones and its distribution was associated with substrate morphology mostly occurring on shaded sides of boulders and cobbles followed by in crevices. Total shell length (SL) for 7064 individuals of Ark clams ranged from 2.21 to 53.93 mm. The growth parameters for the von Bertalanffy function wereL∞ = 57.75 mm,K = 0.47 year− 1, andt0 = − 0.29 year. The growth performance index (Φ′), longevity, asymptotic weight (W∞), and natural mortality were 3.2, 6.29 years, 40.38 g, and 1.79 year− 1, respectively. The exponent “b” value was 3.181 indicating that this clam bears a positive allometric growth pattern. The recruitment pattern was continuous with two major peaks. The sex ratio did not deviate from 1:1. The SL–total live weight (TLW) relationship, the SL–wet weight (WW) relationship, the SL–dry weight (DW) relationship, and the SL–ash-free dry weight (AFDW) relationship were TLW = 0.0001 × SL3.181, WW = 0.000015SL3.347, DW = 0.000009SL3.047, and AFDW = 0.000009SL3.22, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• PBMCs of endometriosis patients express lower levels of AHR and IDO1 genes compared to those of normal individuals. • TCDD increases the expression of AHR, IDO1 and FOXP3 genes in endometriosis compared to non-endometriosis PBMCs. • In response to TCDD treatment, endometriosis PBMCs produce higher levels of kynurenine and IL-6. Endometriosis happens following the implantation of endometrial-derived tissues outside the uterine cavity. It has been suggested that 2, 3, 7, 8-Tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) is involved in endometriosis development. Furthermore, aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR), as a TCDD receptor, has been demonstrated to regulate immune responses. Nonetheless, data regarding the mechanisms, through which TCDD influences the immune system in endometriosis, are still inconclusive. Therefore, frequency of regulatory T cells (Tregs) and the expression of FOXP3 , AHR and indoleamine 2, 3-dioxygenase 1 (IDO1) from endometriosis and non-endometriosis individuals were investigated in the absence and presence of TCDD; also, the concentration of IL-6 and kynurenine in the supernatant of cultures was assessed. The impact of TCDD-treated PBMCs on the migration capacity of menstrual blood-derived stromal stem cells (MenSCs) and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) and IL-6 production was determined. Here, we found that AHR and IDO1 expression levels were lower in endometriosis PBMCs; however, TCDD treatment increased AHR , FOXP3 , IDO1 , IL-6, and Treg levels in the endometriosis group (P ≤ 0.05−0.0001). TCDD-treated PBMCs increased the migration capacity of MenSCs and up-regulated MCP-1 and IL-6 levels in the PBMCs/MenSCs co-culture (P ≤ 0.01−0.0001). In conclusion, these results shed light on the probable mechanisms, through which AHR activation by chemical toxicants can impact inflammatory immune mediators involved in the development of endometriosis; also, these data support the idea that TCDD could promote endometriosis progression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Regulatory T cells (Tregs) play an important role in fine-tuning of immune responses and are pivotal for a successful pregnancy. Recently, the importance of mesenchymal stem cells in regulation of immune responses in general and Tregs in particular has been highlighted. Here, we hypothesized that menstrual stromal/stem cells (MenSCs) contribute to uterine immune system regulation through induction of functionally active Tregs. Methods: MenSCs were collected from 18 apparently healthy women and characterized. Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) served as a control. The effect of MenSCs on proliferation of anti-CD3/CD28-stimulated T CD4 + cells and generation of Tregs with or without pre-treatment with mitomycin C, IFN-γ and IL-1β was evaluated by flow cytometry. The potential role of IDO, PGE2, IL-6, IL-10, and TGF-β on proliferation of T CD4 + cells and generation of Tregs was assessed using blocking antibodies or agents. IDO activity was evaluated in MenSCs and BMSCs culture supernatants by a colorimetric assay. IL-10 and IFN-γ production in MenSCs-primed T CD4 + was measured using intracellular staining. To investigate the functional properties of Tregs induced by MenSCs, Treg cells were isolated and their functional property to inhibit proliferation of anti-CD3/CD28-stimulated PBMCs was assessed by flow cytometry. Results: According to the results, proliferation of T CD4 + lymphocytes was enhanced in the presence of MenSCs, while pre-treatment of MenSCs with pro-inflammatory cytokines reversed this effect. PGE2 and IDO were the major players in MenSCs-induced T cell proliferation. Non-treated MenSCs decreased the frequency of Tregs, whereas after pre-treatment with IFN-γ and IL-1β, they induced functional Tregs with ability to inhibit the proliferation of anti-CD3/CD28-stimulated PBMCs. This effect was mediated through IL-6, IL-10, TGF-β and IDO. IFN-γ/IL-1β-treated MenSCs induced IL-10 and IFN-γ production in CD4 + T cells. Conclusion: Collectively, these findings indicate that immunomodulatory impact of menstrual blood stem cells (MenSCs) on generation of Tregs and inhibition of T cells proliferation is largely dependent on pre-treatment with IFN-γ and IL-1β. This is the first report on immunomodulatory impact of MenSCs on Tregs and highlights the pivotal role of endometrial stem cells in regulation of local endometrial immune responses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• MenSCs downregulate RORC and inhibit T CD4 + TH17 polarization. • MenSCs managed to generate Tregs in a TH17 favored condition. • Inhibition of PGE2 synergize with the capacity of MenSCs to hinder TH17 differentiation. • MenSCs produce a considerable amount of IDO and increased Treg/Th17 ratio. Uncontrolled TH17 differentiation has been suggested to play a role in the pathogenesis of pregnancy loss. We recently showed that menstrual blood stromal/stem cells (MenSCs) alter functional features of natural killer cells. Here, we hypothesized that MenSCs could modulate differentiation of TH17 cells. MenSCs were collected from 18 apparently healthy women and characterized. Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) served as a control. TH17 polarization and proliferation of purified T CD4+ cells were assessed by flow cytometry in a well-defined co-culture system containing T CD4+ cells and MenSCs or BMSCs. Indoleamine 2,3-Dioxygenase (IDO) activity was evaluated in MenSC and BMSC culture supernatants by a colorimetric assay. The impact of MenSCs on expression of transcription factors, RORC, T-bet, Gata3, NRP-1 and Helios were studied by qPCR. MenSCs significantly inhibited TH17 differentiation (p = 0.0383) and percentage of the cells co-expressing IL-17 and IFN-γ (p = 0.0023). PGE2 blockade significantly reduced percentage and proliferation of T CD4+IL-17+ (p = 0.003, p = 0.0018), T CD4+ IFN-γ+ (p = 0.002, p = 0.0022) and T CD4+IL-17+ IFN-γ+ (p = 0.004, p = 0.02) cells. MenSCs produced a considerable activity of IDO (p = 0.0002), induced a significant rise in the Treg frequency (p = 0.0091) and a sharp increase in TH17/Tregs ratio (p = 0.0022). MenSCs increased expression of NRP1 (p = 0.001), while downregulated expression of RORC in T cells (p = 0.001). Our results suggest a supportive role for MenSCs in establishing a pregnancy-friendly microenvironment in the uterus and put forth the idea that inherent abnormalities of MenSCs may be a basis for dysregulated endometrial immune network leading to pregnancy loss. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Melanoma has increased in incidence worldwide prompting investigators to search for new biomarkers for targeted immunotherapy of this disease. Placenta specific 1 (PLAC1) is a new member of cancer-testis antigens with widespread expression in many types of cancer. Here, we aimed to study for the first time the expression pattern of PLAC1 in skin cancer samples including cutaneous melanoma, basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) in comparison to normal skin and nevus tissues and potential therapeutic effect of anti-PLAC1 antibody in melanoma cancer cell lines in vitro. Polyclonal and monoclonal antibodies were applied for immunohistochemical profiling of PLAC1 expression using tissue microarray. The cytotoxic action of anti-PLAC1 antibody alone or as an antibody drug conjugate (with anti-neoplastic agent SN38) was investigated in melanoma cell lines. We observed that 100% (39 of 39) of melanoma tissues highly expressed PLAC1 with both cytoplasmic and surface expression pattern. Investigation of PLAC1 expression in BCC (n = 110) samples showed negative results. Cancer cells in SCC samples (n = 66) showed very weak staining. Normal skin tissues and nevus samples including congenital melanocytic nevus failed to express PLAC1. Anti-PLAC1-SN38 exerted a specific pattern of cytotoxicity in a dose- and time-dependent manner in melanoma cells expressing surface PLAC1. Our findings re-inforce the concept of re-expression of embryonic/placental tissue antigens in cancer and highlight the possibility of melanoma targeted therapy by employing anti-PLAC1 antibodies. The data presented here should lead to the future research on targeted immunotherapy of patients with melanoma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• In addition to peripheral blood-NK cells, functional activity of bone marrow-NK cells are suppressed in chronic lymphocytic leukemia. • rhIL-27 can boost CD69 expression of NK cells in chronic lymphocytic leukemia. • rhIL-27 induced degranulation on bone marrow-NK cells of CLL patients. • rhIL-27 enhanced bone marrow-NK cell cytotoxicity. • NK cell purification may lead to elimination of immunomodulatory components in CLL. Interleukin 27 (IL-27) belongs to IL-12 cytokine family, has shown anti-tumor potential in several solid tumors, as well as hematologic malignancies. IL-27 can inhibit tumor growth and progression through direct and indirect mechanisms, such as inhibition of proliferation, angiogenesis, induction of apoptosis in tumor cells, and anti-tumor immune response. B-CLL is characterized by remarkable immune perturbation, which leads to disease complications and reduced effectiveness of the treatment. Natural killer cells (NK) are considered as an important arm for the elimination of transformed cells. However, NK cells have shown significant impairment in patients with CLL. Here we analyzed the activity of recombinant human (rh) IL-27-stimulated NK cells in bone marrow (BM) and peripheral blood (PB) of CLL patients using cell surface flow cytometry assessment, and cytotoxicity assay. We showed that rhIL-27 can increase CD69 on NK cells both in BM and PB. Interestingly, BM-NK cells treated with rhIL-27 exhibited a significant increase in degranulation and NK cell-mediated cytotoxicity as compared with untreated NK cells, whereas it did not improve NK cell activity of PB. These observations added further explanation to the anti-tumor activity of IL-27 and also could pave the way to adoption immunostimulatory adjuvant for therapies in CLL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While the impact of ocean warming on single species is well described, the impact on marine biofouling communities is not well understood. Effluents of power plants have higher temperatures and can be used as natural large-scale test sites to investigate warming effects on marine ecosystems. In the present study, we evaluated the impact of elevated temperatures in the vicinity of a power plant on macro-biofouling communities in the northern coast of the Persian Gulf. The impact site was on average 2 °C warmer than the control site. Our results demonstrate a significantly different structure and composition of biofouling communities between control and impact sites. Warming led to a 1.5-fold increase in the mean coverage of biofouling communities and slightly decreased functional and species richness. Our results indicated that future warming will likely increase biofouling pressure, while decreasing diversity of communities, particularly in habitats where organisms exist at their upper tolerance limits of temperature. • Structure and composition of biofouling communities were different between control and impact sites. • Warming led to a 1.5-fold increase in the mean coverage of biofouling communities. • Warming slightly decreased functional and species richness of biofouling communities. • Future ocean warming will likely increase biofouling pressure in the northern Persian Gulf. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: It is more than sixty years that the concept of the fetal allograft and immunological paradox of pregnancy was proposed and in this context, several regulatory networks and mechanisms have been introduced so far. It is now generally recognized that mesenchymal stem cells exert potent immunoregulatory activity. In this study, for the first time, the potential impact of Menstrual blood Stem Cells (MenSCs), as surrogate for endometrial stem cells, on proliferative capacity of CD4+ T cells was tested. Methods: MenSCs and Bone marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells (BMSCs) were isolated and assessed for their immunophenotypic features and multi-lineage differentiation capability. BMSCs and MenSCs with or without IFNγ pre-stimulation were co-cultured with purified anti-CD3/CD28-activated CD4+ T cells and the extent of T cell proliferation at different MenSCs: T cell ratios were investigated by CSFE flow cytometry. IDO activity of both cell types was measured after stimulation with IFNγ by a colorimetric assay. Results: MenSCs exhibited dual mesenchymal and embryonic markers and multi-lineage differentiation capacity. MenSCs significantly increased proliferation of CD4+ cells at ratios 1:2, 1:4 and 1:8. IFNγ pre-treated BMSCs but not MenSCs significantly suppressed CD4+ T cells proliferation. Such proliferation promoting capacity of MenSCs was not correlated with IDO activity as these cells showed the high IDO activity following IFNγ treatment. Conclusion: Although augmentation of T cell proliferation by MenSCs can be a basis for maintenance of endometrial homeostasis to cope with ascending infections, this may not fulfill the requirement for immunological tolerance to a semi-allogeneic fetus. However, more investigation is needed to examine whether or not the immunomodulatory properties of these cells are affected by endometrial microenvironment during pregnancy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Astara Fault System (AFS) is located in the northwest Alborz, east of Talesh Mountain (TM) and west of the South Caspian Basin (SCB). The AFS is one of the basement rock faults in Iran that is heavily involved in seismotectonic activity of the Talesh region, and to which subsidence of the SCB is attributed. There is little information available concerning previous AFS seismic activities and its properties. In order to elucidate the seismic behavior and activities of the AFS, we conducted a research study on paleoseismology of the fault. Based on paleoseismic evidence, two scenarios could be taken into consideration, one of which has three and another has four seismic events with magnitudes Mw in the range of 6.7 to 7.2. Evidence of these seismic events is within sedimentary succession as they have occurred during the past 3 ka (this age is determined based on the deposition rate of the region). Six carbon samples were taken for C14 age determination tests, the results of which clearly demonstrated that the EvIV (scenario A) and EvIII (scenario B) had occurred before 27,444 cal BP, while other events occurred in the time period between 27,444 cal BP and 3 ka ago. If we consider the occurrence of three or four seismic events (based on the two scenarios) to be between 27,444 cal BP and 3 ka ago, the average recurrence interval is 7,119 ± 1,017, but evidence for these events has been removed. If we assume EvI to be the youngest event (in both scenarios), the minimum elapsed time is therefore 3 ka. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this research, a simple, efficient, inexpensive, rapid and high yield method for the purification of 6 × histidine-tagged recombinant protein was developed. For this purpose, manganese ferrite magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) were synthesized through a co-precipitation method and then they were conveniently surface-modified with tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS) in order to prevent oxidation and form high density of hydroxyl groups. Next, the salen ligand was prepared from condensation reaction of salicylaldehyde and 3-aminopropyl (trimethoxy) silane (APTMS) in 1:1 molar ratio; followed by complexation with Ni(OAc) 2 .4H 2 O. Finally, the prepared Ni(II)-salen complex conjugated to silica coated MNPs and MnFe 2 O 4 @SiO 2 @Ni-Salen complex nanoparticles were obtained. The functionalized nanoparticles were spherical with an average diameter around 70 nm. The obtained MNPs had a saturation magnetization about 54 emu/g and had super paramagnetic character. These MNPs were used efficiently to enrich recombinant histidine-tagged (His-tagged) protein-A from bacterial cell lysate. In about 45 min, highly pure His-tagged recombinant protein was obtained, as judged by SDS-PAGE analysis and silver staining. The amount of target protein in flow through and washing fractions was minimal denoting the high efficiency of purification process. The average capacity of the matrix was found to be high and about 180 ± 15 mg g −1 (protein/MnFe 2 O 4 @SiO 2 @Ni-Salen complex). Collectively, purification process with MnFe 2 O 4 @SiO 2 @Ni-Salen complex nanoparticles is rapid, efficient, selective and whole purification can be carried out in only a single tube without the need for expensive systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Blanket filters are a new biotechnology for improving nitrogen removal in stormwater dry basins. • Nitrogen removal efficiency is tied to both groundwater fluctuations and storm types. • Nitrogen removal efficiencies are also influenced by the population of nitrifiers and denitrifiers in blanket filters. Removing excess nutrient from stormwater runoffs is necessary to protect the water quality of receiving water bodies such as rivers, lakes, springs, and groundwater aquifers. Silver Springs Springshed, located in the vicinity of Ocala, Florida, has received widespread attention from the local government and residents due to its long-term nutrient impact, which has resulted in eutrophication. Blanket filters containing Bio-sorption Activated Media (BAM) were implemented with different depths of the vadose zone in a stormwater retention basin. The design combined the interaction with groundwater as an innovative Best Management Practice can potentially boost the performance of nutrient removal. Selected storm runoffs were collected at multiple points that cover the runoff timeframe to determine the pollutant load. Infiltrating water samples were collected at various depths within BAM using lysimeters to validate the treatment effectiveness. Significant pollutant load reduction of nutrients was confirmed with highest 99% and 91% removal of nitrate and nitrite (NO x) and total nitrogen (TN) at the deep blanket filter (with more groundwater intrusion impacts) due to more effective denitrification and longer contact time. Yet the highest pollutant load reduction of 93% and 84% removal of NO x and TN was also observed at the shallow blanket filter (with less groundwater intrusion impacts). On the other hand, better pollutant load reduction of ammonia in the BAM layer was found at the shallow blanket filter presumably due to more available oxygen for nitrification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]