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In this research, silver was loaded onto ZnO using the photoreduction method to enhance the photocatalytic activity of ZnO in the visible region. The photocatalytic activity of ZnO and Ag/ZnO was investigated for the gas‐phase degradation of volatile organic compounds such as ethyl acetate, ethanol, and toluene under visible light irradiation. The Ag/ZnO effectively decomposed ethyl acetate, toluene, and ethanol separately and in a mixed state. The characteristics of Ag/ZnO and ZnO were studied using XRD, SEM, EDAX, XPS, BET, UV–vis DRS, and PL analyses. The XRD pattern confirmed the formation of metallic silver in the Ag/ZnO photocatalyst. The PL results showed that the loading of Ag on the ZnO significantly reduces the photoelectron‐hole pairs recombination in Ag/ZnO. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study aims to elucidate the cognitive underpinnings of language abnormalities in Alzheimer's Disease (AD) using a computational cross‐linguistic approach and ultimately enhance the understanding and diagnostic accuracy of the disease. Methods: Computational analyses were conducted on language samples of 156 English and 50 Persian speakers, comprising both AD patients and healthy controls, to extract language indicators of AD. Furthermore, we introduced a machine learning‐based metric, Language Informativeness Index (LII), to quantify empty speech. Results: Despite considerable disparities in surface structures between the two languages, we observed consistency across language indicators of AD in both English and Persian. Notably, indicators of AD in English resulted in a classification accuracy of 90% in classifying AD in Persian. The substantial degree of transferability suggests that the language abnormalities of AD do not tightly link to the surface structures specific to English. Subsequently, we posited that these abnormalities stem from impairments in a more universal aspect of language production: the ability to generate informative messages independent of the language spoken. Consistent with this hypothesis, we found significant correlations between language indicators of AD and empty speech in both English and Persian. Interpretation: The findings of this study suggest that language impairments in AD arise from a deficit in a universal aspect of message formation rather than from the breakdown of language‐specific morphosyntactic structures. Beyond enhancing our understanding of the psycholinguistic deficits of AD, our approach fosters the development of diagnostic tools across various languages, enhancing health equity and biocultural diversity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of electromagnetic (EM) radiation have received increased attention, closely associated with the widespread use of electronics and wireless communication. A significant development in the area is the recent adoption of metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs) to effectively enable electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding. MOF tunable molecular scaffold architecture offers numerous pathways to generate customizable magnetic and electrical properties, which are prerequisite materials characteristics for efficient EMI shielding performance. Their flexibility in terms of structural design, accompanied by high porosity and large specific surface area, makes MOFs excellent candidates to shield EM waves at multiple scales. Herein, the crucial role of molecular‐, nano‐, micro‐, and macro‐scale structural design is reviewed in accordance with the shielding performance of MOFs. The current design strategies of MOF‐based EMI shields are systematically outlined, and the shielding mechanisms are also expounded based on their structural features. The factors that hinder the widespread utilization of functional MOF‐derived EMI shields are also examined. Future research directions are unveiled for the rational design of the next‐generation MOF‐based EMI shields to address the pressing EM radiation concerns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The COVID‐19 pandemic has compelled governments globally to formulate policies addressing the unique needs of their populations. These policies are critical in disseminating accurate information and enhancing health literacy during crises. Objective: This narrative review aims to identify and assess effective information and health literacy policies implemented during pandemics. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was performed across five electronic information sources (PubMed, Science Direct, ProQuest, Emerald Insight, Scopus), supplemented by Google Scholar. The analysis employed Walt and Gilson's health policy triangle framework to categorize and evaluate the findings. Results: The review revealed that the policies could be grouped into several key categories: educational programs, laws and regulations, knowledge sharing, national programs, and different information sources. The development of these policies involved multifaceted processes influenced by political, scientific, economic, cultural and social factors, as well as the involvement of multiple stakeholders. Conclusions: This review offers significant insights and actionable recommendations for policymakers and stakeholders. By understanding the dimensions and components of effective information and health literacy policies, stakeholders can better prepare for and respond to future pandemics and similar health crises. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article presents an extremum‐seeking control (ESC) algorithm for unmodeled nonlinear systems with known steady‐state gain and generally non‐convex cost functions with bounded curvature. The main contribution of this article is a novel gradient estimator, which uses a polyhedral set that characterizes all gradient estimates consistent with the collected data. The gradient estimator is posed as a quadratic program, which selects the gradient estimate that provides the best worst‐case convergence of the closed‐loop Lyapunov function. We show that the polyhedral‐based gradient estimator ensures the stability of the closed‐loop system formed by the plant and optimization algorithm. Furthermore, the estimated gradient provably produces the optimal robust convergence. We demonstrate our ESC controller through three benchmark examples and one practical example, which shows our ESC has fast and robust convergence to the optimal equilibrium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Levels of anticancer agents in cancer patients' body fluids are typically measured to adjust drug dosages or improve treatment results. The goal of this research is to present a new method for extracting bicalutamide (BCT) from biological samples using a responsive polymeric nanoadsorbent that reacts to temperature and near‐infrared radiation (NIR). To achieve this, the surface layers of tungsten disulfide nanosheets are modified using poly (N‐vinylcaprolactam) and three generations of polymeric dendrimers. The adsorbent product is then characterized using thermogravimetric analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy, and X‐ray diffraction techniques. The drug loading operation on the proposed adsorbent is studied through central composite design and response surface strategy, with optimization for temperature (25–45°C), pH (5–9), and contact time (2–18 min). Nonlinear kinetic and adsorption isotherm analysis results show the best fit with Langmuir and pseudo‐second‐order models. The drug release process from the BCT‐loaded adsorbent is investigated via an HPLC‐UV system under both NIR‐irradiated and non‐irradiated conditions. The suggested method demonstrates remarkable recovery rates for BCT spikes from urine (95.23%) and plasma (93.33%), respectively. Overall, the recommended strategy can be regarded as a potent analytical tool for evaluating BCT in complex biosamples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Epilepsy is associated with significant mortality risk. There is limited research examining how traumatic brain injury (TBI) timing affects mortality in relation to the onset of epilepsy. We aimed to assess the temporal relationship between epilepsy and TBI regarding mortality in a cohort of post‐9/11 veterans. Methods: This retrospective cohort study included veterans who received health care in the Defense Health Agency and the Veterans Health Administration between 2000 and 2019. For those diagnosed with epilepsy, the index date was the date of first antiseizure medication or first seizure; we simulated the index date for those without epilepsy. We created the study groups by the index date and first documented TBI: (1) controls (no TBI, no epilepsy), (2) TBI only, (3) epilepsy only, (4) TBI before epilepsy, (5) TBI within 6 months after epilepsy, and (6) TBI >6 months after epilepsy. Kaplan–Meier estimates of all‐cause mortality were calculated, and log‐rank tests were used to compare unadjusted cumulative mortality rates among groups compared to controls. Cox proportional hazard models were used to compute hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Results: Among 938 890 veterans, 27 436 (2.92%) met epilepsy criteria, and 264 890 (28.22%) had a TBI diagnosis. Mortality was higher for veterans with epilepsy than controls (6.26% vs. 1.12%; p <.01). Veterans with TBI diagnosed ≤6 months after epilepsy had the highest mortality hazard (HR = 5.02, 95% CI = 4.21–5.99) compared to controls, followed by those with TBI before epilepsy (HR = 4.25, 95% CI = 3.89–4.58), epilepsy only (HR = 4.00, 95% CI = 3.67–4.36), and TBI >6 months after epilepsy (HR = 2.49, 95% CI = 2.17–2.85). These differences were significant across groups. Significance: TBI timing relative to epilepsy affects time to mortality; TBI within 6 months after epilepsy or before epilepsy diagnosis was associated with earlier time to death compared to those with epilepsy only or TBI >6 months after epilepsy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The risk of flooding has become more significant in many parts of the world due to climate change and increased urbanization. Flood has devastating effects on infrastructure, and communities, causing damage to property and loss of life. Simulation of flood extent in a particular area is done by using various mathematical models, hydrologic‐hydraulic models, and datasets. Flood modeling using hydraulic‐hydrological models has many errors due to the lack of hydraulic‐hydrologic data and insufficient statistical period length. This study demonstrates the fact that the geomorphological index (GI) method, which is based on the digital elevation model and requires little hydraulic‐hydrologic data, is an effective method for flood modeling. Flood zoning based on GI was performed within the Kashafroud basin with 25, 100, and 200‐year return periods by using geomorphic flood area (GFA) plugin in QGIS software. The true positive rates were 0.985, 0.989, and 0.992, respectively, which showed the high accuracy of flood zoning based on the GI method. Here proposed method showed that using the GFA plugin offers a good way for the flood risk assessment in a basin with the lack of measured data as an alternative to the hydraulic‐hydrological methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study investigates the metabolic differences between normal, prediabetic and diabetic patients with good and poor glycaemic control (GGC and PGC). Design: In this study, 1102 individuals were included, and 50 metabolites were analysed using tandem mass spectrometry. The diabetes diagnosis and treatment standards of the American Diabetes Association (ADA) were used to classify patients. Methods: The nearest neighbour method was used to match controls and cases in each group on the basis of age, sex and BMI. Factor analysis was used to reduce the number of variables and find influential underlying factors. Finally, Pearson's correlation coefficient was used to check the correlation between both glucose and HbAc1 as independent factors with binary classes. Results: Amino acids such as glycine, serine and proline, and acylcarnitines (AcylCs) such as C16 and C18 showed significant differences between the prediabetes and normal groups. Additionally, several metabolites, including C0, C5, C8 and C16, showed significant differences between the diabetes and normal groups. Moreover, the study found that several metabolites significantly differed between the GGC and PGC diabetes groups, such as C2, C6, C10, C16 and C18. The correlation analysis revealed that glucose and HbA1c levels significantly correlated with several metabolites, including glycine, serine and C16, in both the prediabetes and diabetes groups. Additionally, the correlation analysis showed that HbA1c significantly correlated with several metabolites, such as C2, C5 and C18, in the controlled and uncontrolled diabetes groups. Conclusions: These findings could help identify new biomarkers or underlying markers for the early detection and management of diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Enantiomerically enriched crown ethers (CE) exhibit strong asymmetric induction in phase transfer catalysis, supramolecular catalysis and molecular recognition processes. Traditional methods have often been used to access these valuable compounds, which limit their diversity and consequently their applicability. Herein, a practical catalytic method is described for the gram scale synthesis of a class of chiral CEs (aza‐crown ethers; ACEs) using Rh‐catalyzed hydroamination of bis(allenes) with diamines. Using this approach, a wide range of chiral vinyl functionalized CEs with ring sizes ranging from 12 to 36 have been successfully prepared in high yields of up to 92 %, dr of up to >20 : 1 and er of up to >99 : 1. These vinyl substituted CEs allow for further diversification giving facile access to various CE derivatives as well as to their three‐dimensional analogues using ring‐closing metathesis. Some of these chiral CEs themselves display high potential for use in asymmetric catalysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Unsustainable development in the industry has increased the challenge of proper disposal of industrial by‐products and has caused environmental pollution on a large scale. Furthermore, minimizing the carbon dioxide emissions due to industrial and environmental activities is a crucial challenge to controlling the global warming crisis and climate change. The use of industrial by‐product‐based supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) can reduce fossil fuel consumption through the reduction in cement production and contribute to suitable waste management. In this research, a meta‐model was developed using integration of the decision tree‐based method named reduced error pruning tree (REPtree) and ensemble approaches (boosting and bagging) to improve the pruning phase for strength simulation of concrete mixtures incorporating industrial by‐products. Then, ensemble multiple learning algorithms were applied to develop a meta‐model using the artificial neural network and Gaussian process regression. A comprehensive experimental‐based database incorporating 3836 records from short‐term to long‐term compressive strength (CS) was collected from the literature. Performance measures present that the proposed ensemble boosting‐REPtree model outperforms other benchmark and ensemble models with a correlation coefficient of 0.960 and root mean square error of 7.884 MPa. Also, uncertainty evaluation was done based on the Monte Carlo simulation algorithm in the modeling process. The FAST and SOBOL methods, as global sensitivity analysis, presented water‐to‐binder (W/B) ratio, curing time, and SCMs to binder ratio (SCM/B) as critical components to estimate the CS of concrete mixtures. The computational simulation of the influential parameters on concrete mixtures incorporating industrial by‐products revealed that the experimental factors yielding the highest CS of the mixtures were calculated as follows: cement content of 584 kg/m3, W/B ratio of 0.17, superplasticizer‐to‐cement ratio of 1.88%, and SCM/B ratio of 0.15. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease caused by numerous factors, such as immune system dysfunction and genetic factors. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play a crucial role in UC pathogenesis, particularly via the JAK‐STAT pathway. Our aim was to investigate the association between miRNA‐101 and JAK2‐STAT3 signaling pathway with inflammatory cytokines in UC patients. Methods: We enrolled 35 UC patients and 35 healthy individuals as the control group, referred to Shariati Hospital, Tehran, Iran. Patients were diagnosed based on clinical, laboratory, histological, and colonoscopy criteria. RNA and protein extracted from tissue samples. Real‐time PCR was used to assess the expression levels of miRNA‐101, interleukin (IL)‐1β, IL‐6, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α, and IL‐10 genes, while western blot was employed to measure levels of P‐STAT3, total STAT3, and JAK2 proteins. Results: Expression of pro‐inflammatory cytokines TNF‐α, IL‐1β, and IL‐6 significantly increased, while the expression of IL‐10 significantly decreased in the case group versus controls. Additionally, miRNA‐101 expression was significantly higher in UC patients. A significant correlation between miRNA‐101 and IL‐6 expression was observed, indicating their relationship and possible impact on cell signaling pathways, JAK2‐STAT3. No significant changes were observed in phosphorylated and total STAT3 and JAK2 protein expression. Conclusion: This study provides evidence of increased miRNA‐101 expression in UC tissue, suggesting a potential correlation between miRNA‐101 and IL‐6 expression and their involvement in the JAK2‐STAT3 pathway. The study confirms alterations in UC patients' pro‐inflammatory cytokines and anti‐inflammatory IL‐10. However, further investigations are needed to understand the exact role of miRNA‐101 in UC pathogenesis fully. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This systematic review and meta‐analysis aimed to evaluate the diagnostic value of the neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (PLR) in women with a history of abortion (missed and threatened) and recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) in comparison with healthy pregnancies. Methods: Electronic databases including MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, and Cochrane Library were searched for NLR and PLR in women who experienced early pregnancy loss up to January 1, 2023 with a combination of proper keywords. Meta‐analysis was done for comparison with three or more studies and summary estimates were measured. Results: A total of 390 citations were retrieved initially, and after screening, 16 articles were deemed eligible for the final review. Among these, 14 studies underwent meta‐analysis. The meta‐analysis revealed that the standard mean of the NLR was significantly higher in abortion cases compared to the control group. However, there was no significant difference in the PLR between the pregnancy loss group and the control group. Conclusion: NLR was significantly higher among RPL patients compared to the control group, according to these data, NLR may be capable of being used in the diagnosis of RPL as an easy, cheap, and accessible modality. Further studies, which take these variables into account, will need to be undertaken to determine the diagnostic value of NLR and PLR in early pregnancy loss. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study investigated the wound healing potential of Piascledine (an avocado/soybean mixture) alone and in combination with bacterial nanocellulose on rat cutaneous wounds. Full‐thickness excisional wounds (2 cm in diameter) were induced on the backs of 60 Sprague–Dawley rats, divided into four groups, treated with daily topical application of bacterial nanocellulose (BNC), Piascledine 10% (PSD 10%) and Piascledine+bacterial nanocellulose (PSD + BNC) (10 mg/disk) and normal saline (control) for 20 days. Wounds were monitored daily, and at 10, 20 and 30 days post‐injury (DPI), tissue samples were collected for biochemical, histopathological and molecular analyses. Treated rats with PSD and PSD + BNC showed a significant decrease in the wound area compared with other groups. PSD and particularly PSD + BNC modulated inflammation, improved fibroplasia and angiogenesis and scar tissue formation at short term. At the long term, they reduced the scar tissue size and improved collagen fibres alignment, tissue organization and remodelling as well as re‐epithelialization. PSD enhanced matrix metalloproteinase‐3 (MMP‐3) gene expression, collagen and glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) synthesis and decreased tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase‐1 (TIMP‐1) gene expression at various stages of wound healing. The study concluded that topical application of Piascledine, particularly in combination with bacterial nanocellulose, promotes wound healing activity by modulating inflammation, regulating MMP‐3 expression and enhancing collagen and GAGs synthesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, for the first time, the bismuth telluride (Bi2Te3) nanoparticles functionalized graphene oxide (GO) were synthesized for the removal of nonylphenol (NP). The surface of the GO‐Bi2Te3 nanocomposite was modified by hyperbranched dendrimer and characterized by different spectroscopic and morphological techniques such as Fourier transform infrared (FT‐IR) spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction (XRD), field‐emission scanning electron microscope (FE‐SEM), energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDX), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). In this paper, to enhance the capacity, the surface of GO‐Bi2Te3@GlyTsCl dendrimer was modified by 5‐amino‐2‐hydroxybenzoic acid (5‐ASA). The effects of parameters on the removal of NP were also studied. This study reports the utilization of nanoadsorbent (GO‐Bi2Te3@GlyTsCl/5‐ASA) for the removal of NP by high‐performance liquid chromatography with fluorescence detector (HPLC‐FLD). Under optimal conditions, the removal values for the method were in the range of 90–96 %. Additionally, the Langmuir model was found to be fit with the isotherms data. The best kinetic model fit for the adsorption of NP from nanoadsorbent was the pseudo‐second‐order model. Moreover, GO‐Bi2Te3@GlyTsCl/5‐ASA nanoadsorbent exposed good reusability even after six consecutive cycles (from 100 % to 93 %) with high stability. Consequently, synthesized GO‐Bi2Te3@GlyTsCl/5‐ASA composites could be potentially used as an efficient nanoadsorbent for NP removal in water samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Key Clinical Message: It seems that the association of two connective tissue disorders, including Marfan syndrome and systemic sclerosis, the first is associated with the loosening of the subcutaneous tissue and the second with its tightening, is a very interesting and controversial paradox at the same time and need finding possible genetic etiologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of the study was to fabricate tailored extended‐release tablets of blood thinner Ticagrelor as once‐daily dosing using additive manufacturing for better compliance in heart failure therapy. The solid work design of the tablet was printed using hot melt extrusion (HME) based 3D printing by optimized mixture of Eudragit RS‐100, plasticizer and drug for producing extrudable and printable filaments. FTIR and TGA results showed no covalent interaction among ingredients and no decomposition during HME process, respectively. Friability, weight variation, assay and content uniformity tests met USP requirements, while the mean hardness of the tablets was calculated in a value between 40 and 50 kg. According to DSC and XRD results, the crystallinity state of the Ticagrelor was converted to an amorphous one in the tablet matrix. Smooth surfaces with multiple deposited layers were observed using SEM. In comparison, the maximum Ticagrelor release of 100% after 120 min from Brilinta® tablets was decreased to 97% in 400 min from the 3D tablet at infill of 90%. Korsmeyer‐Peppas kinetic model showed the drug release mechanism is affected by diffusion and swelling. In general, fabrication of the extended‐release 3D printed tablet of Ticagrelor using HME‐based‐additive manufacturing has the potential to provide specific doses with tailored kinetic release for personalized medicine, improving adherence at point‐of‐care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Impairments of auditory processing are among frequent findings in dyslexia. However, it is unclear how auditory signals are gated from brainstem to higher central processing stages in these individuals. The present study was done to investigate auditory sensory gating in children with developmental dyslexia (DD), and to determine whether sensory gating correlates with performance on behavioural tasks. Auditory sensory gating at P50, N1 and P2 waves was evaluated in two groups including 20 children with DD and 19 children with typical reading development (TRD). Behavioural tests were used to evaluate phonological working memory (PWM) and selective attention abilities. Sensory gating in children with DD was significantly less efficient than their peers at P50, N1 and P2 waves. Lower auditory evoked potential (AEP) amplitudes were found in the DD group. The children with TRD scored better in all the behavioural tests. Relationships were reported between sensory gating at P50, N1, P2 and behavioural performance in the two groups. Children with dyslexia had deficient sensory gating in comparison with controls. In addition, children with dyslexia experienced problems with PWM and selective attention tasks. The function of sensory gating was associated with attentional and PWM performances in this group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Flooding is one of the most serious and frequent natural hazards affecting human life, property, and the environment. This study develops and tests a deep learning approach for large‐scale spatial flood modeling, using Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) and optimized versions combined with the Gray Wolf Optimizer (GWO) or the Imperialist Competitive Algorithm (ICA). With Sweden as an application case for nation‐wide flood susceptibility mapping, this modeling approach considers ten geo‐environmental input factors (slope, elevation, aspect, plan curvature, length of slope, topographic wetness index, distance from river, distance from wetland, rainfall, and land use). The GWO and ICA optimization improves model prediction by 12% and 8%, respectively, compared with the standalone CNN model performance. The results show 40% of the land area, 45% of the railroad, and 43% of the road network of Sweden to have high or very high flood susceptibility. They also show the aspect to have the highest input factor impact on flood susceptibility prediction while, for example, rainfall ranks only seven of the total 10 considered geo‐environmental input factors. In general, accurate nation‐wide flood susceptibility prediction is essential for guiding flood management and mitigation efforts. This study's approach to such prediction has emerged as well‐performing and cost‐effective for the case of Sweden, calling for further application and testing in other world regions. Plain Language Summary: Floods have the potential to negatively affect human wellbeing, infrastructures and the natural environment. Identifying regions prone to flooding is essential in avoiding such catastrophes. In the current study, standard and optimized convolutional neural network models are used to generate maps identifying the regions of Sweden with highest probability of flooding. Various topographic, hydrological, and anthropogenic factors are taken into account for the modeling. The analysis reveals numerous areas in Sweden prone to flooding, especially in the northern, central, and southeastern parts of the country. Malmo (the third largest city in Sweden) and some areas of Stockholm (capital) are the cities most susceptible to flooding. Additionally, considerable extensions of Sweden's roadways and railways might be impacted by floods. Accurate flood susceptibility mapping is required to assist policymakers and urban planners in implementing measures aimed at mitigating flood vulnerability. Furthermore, the findings show the ability of deep learning models for detecting flood‐susceptible areas, which can be implemented worldwide to improve flood management strategies and protect lives. Key Points: Deep learning model of convolutional neural network (CNN) was optimized and improved with gray wolf optimizer (GWO) and imperialist competitive algorithm (ICA) to detect flood‐prone areasDuring both the training and testing phases, the CNN‐GWO model demonstrated superior performance compared to CNN‐ICA and the standalone CNN modelThe results show 40% of the land area, 45% of the railroad, and 43% of the road network of Sweden to have high or very high flood susceptibility [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A closed‐form solution for localising and synchronising an acoustic sensor node with respect to a Wireless Acoustic Sensor Network (WASN) is presented. The aim is to allow efficient scaling of a WASN by individually calibrating newly joined sensor nodes instead of recalibrating the entire array. A key contribution is that the sensor to be calibrated does not need to include a built‐in emitter. The proposed method uses signals emitted from spatially distributed sources to compute time difference of arrival (TDOA) measurements between the existing WASN and a new sensor. The problem is then modelled as a set of multivariate non‐linear TDOA equations. Through a simple transformation, the non‐linear TDOA equations are converted into a system of linear equations. Then, weighted least squares is applied to find an accurate estimate of the calibration parameters. Signal sources can either be known emitters within the existing WASN or arbitrary sources in the environment, thus allowing for flexible applicability in both active and passive calibration scenarios. Simulation results under various conditions show high joint localisation and synchronisation performance, often compared to the Cramér‐Rao lower bound. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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A new N2O2‐tetradentate Schiff base ligand entitled as N,N′‐((ethane‐1,2‐diybis [oxy])bis (ethan‐2,1‐diyl))bis(3‐(4‐methoxyphenyl)prop‐2‐en‐1‐imine was prepared by direct reaction between 3‐(4‐methoxyphenyl)‐2‐propenal and 1,8‐diamino‐3,6‐dioxaoctane. After characterization of the ligand, some novel cadmium coordination compounds formulated as CdLX2 (X: Cl−, Br−, I−, N3−, SCN−and NO3−) were synthesized and characterized by physical and spectral techniques. Typically crystal structure of cadmium nitrate coordination compound was determined suggesting crystallization in monoclinic system (with space group of I2/a) and a coordination geometry of square anti‐prism around the Cd (II) ion. Moreover, CdLBr2 and CdLI2 compounds were prepared in nanostructured dimensions by sonochemical method confirmed by SEM, EDX, and XRD techniques. In continuation, thermal behavior investigation of the compounds including thermal stabilities, thermal decomposition steps, and thermo‐kinetic parameters was performed based on Coats‐Redfern equations from room temperature to 900 °C. Furthermore, all the compounds were subjected to bioassay against two Gram‐positive bacteria of Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus subtilis, two Gram‐negative bacteria of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli, and two fungal strains of Aspergillus oryzae and Candida albicans. The results showed that all the synthesized compounds act well as antimicrobial agents. DNA cleavage power of the materials was also evaluated using extracted DNA from E. coli bacterium. The cytotoxic activities of some compounds were investigated against the prostate cancer cell lines (PC3) and human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) (as normal cells) by MTT assay and nitric oxide level evaluation method as compared with cis‐platin confirming anti‐cancer effects of them. Finally, the antioxidant properties of the N2O2‐ligand and its cadmium coordination compounds were examined by DPPH and FRAP methods suggesting all the compounds have good antioxidant activity as compared with standard samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: This study aims to investigate experiences of frontline nurses about human caring during COVID‐19 pandemic based on the Ten Caritas Processes® of Watson's Human Caring Theory. Design: A directed content analysis was performed. Methods: A total of 15 frontline nurses were recruited by purposive sampling from Razi hospital (north of Iran), in 2020 and semi‐structured interviews were conducted. Results: Extracted categories based on Ten Caritas Processes® included feeling satisfied in providing care to patients, effective presence with patients, moving towards self‐actualization (moving towards transcendence), care with trust and compassion, experience positive and negative emotions, creativity in providing care, self‐directing learning experience in the field of care, unfavourable environment for providing care, feeling acceptance and worth, uncertainty (facing the unknown). This study showed that communication skills, self‐sensitivity, patient dignity, teaching‐learning and problem‐solving skills, holistic attention to the patient, and the provision of a healing environment are necessary for patient care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims: Considering the increasing prevalence of dental services in the community and the impossibility of identifying each infected patient, hand sanitation is the most critical factor in controlling infection in these centers. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the effect of educational intervention on the hand health behavior of the staff of Tehran dentistry clinics based on the health belief model (HBM). Methods: In this quasi‐experimental study in 2017, 128 employees of the health centers were selected through a multistage sampling method and they were placed in two groups of intervention and control (each 64 people). The data was collected using a questionnaire devised by the researcher. The validity and reliability of the questionnaire were determined. The questionnaire consisted of demographics, knowledge, structures of the HBM, and behavior variables. Then, the intervention was administered based on HBM‐based education. Data were analyzed by SPSS16 and independent t test, χ2, and repeated measurement analysis of variance. Results: Before the intervention, the two intervention and control groups did not differ significantly in terms of demographic variables, mean scores of knowledge, constructs of HBM, and hand hygiene behavior (p > 0.05), while the intervention group was scored higher significantly compared to the control one after the intervention (p < 0.001). Conclusion: According to the findings, the HBM can be used as a framework for designing educational interventions to improve hand hygiene behavior to control infection in health centers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quercus infectoria Oliv. is a taxon with high morphological variation, and many infra‐specific have been described in this species, of which Q. infectoria Oliv. subsp. veneris (A.Kern) Meikle is present in the flora of Iran. In a taxonomic review of the Quercus L. taxa in Iran, based on morphological and micromorphological evidence, we recognized a new combination: Q. infectoria Oliv. subsp. boissieri (Reut.) O. Schwarz var. pfaeffingeri (Kotschy) Jamzad and Panahi, as a distinct taxon. Since the valid subspecific name for this taxon is subsp. veneris (A.Kern) Meikle var. pfaeffingeri, and the basionym of this name was not defined in the published manuscript. Here we correct the authorship and validate this name. Furthermore, we present the taxonomic history of Q. infectoria, descriptions of infraspecific taxa, a distribution map in Iran, ecological notes, and an identification key to infraspecific taxa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present work, a combination of microwave‐assisted extraction with magnetic ionic liquid–based dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction was developed for the extraction of chloramine–T from fish samples. In this method, the sample was mixed with a hydrochloric acid solution and exposed to microwave irradiations. By doing so, chloramine–T was converted to p–toluenesulfonamide and extracted from the sample into an aqueous phase. Then, a mixture of acetonitrile (as a dispersive solvent) and magnetic ionic liquid (as an extraction solvent) was rapidly injected into the obtained solution. In the following, the magnetic solvent droplets including the extracted analytes were isolated from the aqueous solution in the presence of an external magnetic field and after diluting with acetonitrile injected into high‐performance liquid chromatography equipped with a diode array detector. Under the optimum extraction conditions, high extraction recovery (78%), low limits of detection (7.2 ng/g) and quantification (23.9 ng/g), good repeatability (relative standard deviations ≤5.8 and 6.8% for intra– and inter‐day precisions, respectively), and wide linear range (23.9–1000 ng/g) were obtained. Finally, various fish samples marketed in Tabriz city (East Azarbaijan, Iran) were analyzed with the suggested method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Equine semen cryopreservation is one of the major procedures for the genetic conservation of rare and endangered genotypes. The current study was conducted to evaluate the effect of egg yolk plasma (EYP) enriched with β‐carotene as an antioxidant supplement on INRA‐96 extender regarding freezing Arabic stallion sperm. For this purpose, β‐carotene various concentrations were utilized as a supplementary ingredient in formulating the diets of laying hens. Birds were randomly divided into four groups, fed with 0 (control), 500, 1000 and 2000 mg/kg in a supplemented diet with β‐carotene. Subsequently, various variants of enriched extender (INRA‐96 + 2.5% glycerol [G]) were gained by adding 2% EYP from four treatment groups. The sperm characteristics, including motility, viability, morphology, plasma membrane integrity (HOS test), lipid peroxidation (MDA) and DNA fragmentation, were evaluated after thawing. According to the results obtained in this study, the addition of EYP from T2 and T4 (500 and 2000 mg/kg of β‐carotene in hens' diet) to the extender (INRA‐96 + 2.5% G) leads to an increase in total motility (50.50% and 49.49%, respectively), progressive motility (32.6% and 31.8%, respectively), viability (68.7% and 66.1%, respectively) and plasma membrane integrity (57.7% and 50.6%, respectively). Moreover, lipid peroxidation (1.3 and 1.4 nmol/mL, respectively) and DNA fragmentation (8.6% and 9.9%, respectively) were diminished using the mentioned treatments. However, sperm morphology was not affected by the treatments. In the current study, we concluded that the optimal concentration of β‐carotene in the laying hen's diet (500 mg/kg) could reveal the best results about sperm quality. So, EYP enriched with β‐carotene acts as a valuable natural and safe supplementary material that could be exploited for enhancing stallion sperm quality in cryopreservation conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work proposed the developed of thermo‐sensitive and magnetic molecularly imprinted polymer for the extraction of omeprazole from the human urine and pharmaceutical samples. The ethylene glycol dimethacrylate and N, N′‐methylenediacrylamide were used as the cross‐linkers, poly (N‐vinylcaprolactam) as a thermo‐sensitive monomer, and omeprazole as a template to create molecularly imprinted polymer. The maximum sorption capacity was achieved at a contact time of 15 min, pH=7, temperature of 25 °C, and initial concentration of 20 μg mL−1. Under these conditions, the omeprazole in human urine and pharmaceutical samples were determined by high performance liquid chromatography with ultra‐violet detection. The obtained polymer was characterized by different techniques. The equilibrium data were fitted well with Langmuir isotherm model.The limit of quantification and limit of detection were 0.24 and 0.061 μg mL−1, respectively. Relative standard deviations for inter‐day and intra‐day precisions were 1.78 % and 1.51 %, respectively. Omeprazole extraction recoveries from samples exceeded 93 %. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Various severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 vaccines with different platforms have been administered worldwide; however, their effectiveness in critical cases of COVID‐19 has remained a concern. In this national cohort study, 24 016 intensive care unit (ICU) coronavirus disease‐2019 (COVID‐19) admissions were included from January to April 2022. The mortality and length of ICU stay were compared between the vaccinated and unvaccinated patients. A total of 9428 (39.25%) patients were unvaccinated, and 14 588 (60.75%) patients had received at least one dose of the vaccine. Compared with the unvaccinated, the first, second, and third doses of vaccine resulted in 8%, 20%, and 33% lower risk of ICU mortality in the adjusted model, with risk ratio (RR): 0.92, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.84–1.001, RR: 0.80, 95% CI: 0.77–0.83, and RR: 0.67, 95% CI: 0.64–0.71, respectively. The mean survival time was significantly shorter in the unvaccinated versus the fully vaccinated patients (hazard ratio [HR]: 0.84, 95% CI: 0.80–0.88); p < 0.001). All vaccine platforms successfully decreased the hazard of ICU death compared with the unvaccinated group. The duration of ICU stay was significantly shorter in the fully vaccinated than in unvaccinated group (MD, −0.62, 95% CI: −0.82 to −0.42; p < 0.001). Since COVID‐19 vaccination in all doses and platforms has been able to reduce the risk of mortality and length of ICU‐stay, universal vaccination is recommended based on vaccine availability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metabolic syndrome is characterized by multiple metabolic disorders. Several studies indicated that curcumin plus piperine could affect lipids profiles in various diseases. The present meta‐analysis aims to assess the effect of curcumin plus piperine on lipid profiles in patients with MetS and associated disorders using a systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials. Trials were searched by several electronic databases up to May 2022. The Comprehensive Meta‐Analysis (CMA) version3 software carried out this systematic review and meta‐analysis. Random‐effects model and the inverse variance method were used to conduct the meta‐analysis. We evaluated the publication bias and heterogeneity of all eligible studies. In addition, subgroup analyses and sensitivity assessments were performed to assess potential sources of heterogeneity. The combined results by the random‐effects model demonstrated that curcumin plus piperine significantly decreased total cholesterol and LDL‐C in patients suffering from metabolic syndrome. In comparison, the results of the overall effect size did not show any significant change in triglyceride concentrations. Our results were robust in sensitivity analysis and were not dependent on the dose of curcumin, the dose of piperine, and the duration of treatment. Our results showed that co‐administration of piperine and curcumin supplementation improves the lipid profile in metabolic syndrome. However, further long‐term RCTs are required to ascertain their clinical benefit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Creating cellular homeostasis within a defined tissue typically relates to the processes of apoptosis and efferocytosis. A great example here is cell debris that must be removed to prevent unwanted inflammatory responses and then reduce autoimmunity. In view of that, defective efferocytosis is often assumed to be responsible for the improper clearance of apoptotic cells (ACs). This predicament triggers off inflammation and even results in disease development. Any disruption of phagocytic receptors, molecules as bridging groups, or signaling routes can also inhibit macrophage efferocytosis and lead to the impaired clearance of the apoptotic body. In this line, macrophages as professional phagocytic cells take the lead in the efferocytosis process. As well, insufficiency in macrophage efferocytosis facilitates the spread of a wide variety of diseases, including neurodegenerative diseases, kidney problems, types of cancer, asthma, and the like. Establishing the functions of macrophages in this respect can be thus useful in the treatment of many diseases. Against this background, this review aimed to recapitulate the knowledge about the mechanisms related to macrophage polarization under physiological or pathological conditions, and shed light on its interaction with efferocytosis. Significance statement: Efferocytosis occurs to remove apoptotic cells by phagocytic ones, in particular macrophages.Any insufficiency in macrophage efferocytosis facilitates the spread of a wide variety of diseases, including autoimmune disorders, neurodegenerative diseases, kidney problems, types of cancer, asthma, and the like.Recent research has established that macrophage polarization can affect the efferocytosis process.A better understanding of macrophage polarization and its cytokines in many diseases can help design treatments to improve patient outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Peripheral nerve injuries (PNI/s) are common orthopedic conditions, characterized by motor and sensory deficits in the damaged region. There is growing evidence that the L‐type calcium channel antagonist nimodipine has neuroprotective and neuroregenerative effects in animal models of neurological disorders. The efficacy of nimodipine on improving motor function and sensation following a sciatic nerve crush model was investigated in male Wistar rats as a model of PNI. At different time periods following damage, we evaluated motor function, sensory recovery, electrophysiology, histomorphometry, and gene expression. Moreover, we used histological and mass ratio analysis of the gastrocnemius muscle to assess atrophy. Our findings suggest that the nimodipine improves motor and sensory function more quickly in the damaged region 2, 4, and 6 weeks after 1 week of treatment. Nimodipine treatment also increased the number of myelinated fibers while decreasing their thickness, as shown by histomorphometry. Additionally, nimodipine treatment increases the mRNA levels of neurotrophic factors (BDNF and NGF), which are known to contribute to the regeneration of injured neurons. The impact of nimodipine in PNI recovery may be due to its stimulation of the CREB signaling pathway and suppression of pro‐inflammatory factor production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The management of malignant polyps is a treatment dilemma in selecting between polypectomy and colorectal resection. To assist clinicians, guidelines have been developed by the Association of Coloproctology of Great Britain and Ireland (ACPGBI) to provide treatment recommendations. Methods: This study compared management strategy based on the ACPGBI risk categorization for malignant polyps. Univariable and multivariable statistical analysis was undertaken to assess the factors predicting management strategy. A population‐wide analysis was performed of 1646 malignant polyps and the factors that predicted their management strategy, from Queensland, Australia, from 2011 to 2019. Results: Overall, 31.55% of patients with very low or low risk disease proceeded to resection. Of those with high or very high risk disease, 36.69% did not proceed to resection. In very low and low risk polyps, age (P = 0.003) and polyp location (P < 0.001) were significantly different between the colorectal resection group and the polypectomy alone group. In those with very high or high risk polyps age (P < 0.001), type of facility (public or private) for the colonoscopy (P = 0.037), right colonic polyps compared to left colonic polyps (P = 0.015) and rectal polyps (P < 0.001) and mismatch repair mutations present (P = 0.027) were predictive of resection in high risk disease using a multivariable model. Conclusion: Over 30% of patients with very low and low risk malignant polyps proceeded to resection, against the advice of guidelines. Furthermore, over 35% of patients with very high or high risk malignant polyps did not proceed to resection. Education strategies may improve management decision choices. Furthermore, improvements in data collation will improve the understanding of management choices in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect and safety of N‐acetylcysteine (NAC) inhalation spray in the treatment of patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19). This randomized controlled clinical trial study was conducted on patients with COVID‐19. Eligible patients (n = 250) were randomly allocated into the intervention group (routine treatment + NAC inhaler spray one puff per 12 h, for 7 days) or the control group who received routine treatment alone. Clinical features, hemodynamic, hematological, biochemical parameters and patient outcomes were assessed and compared before and after treatment. The mortality rate was significantly higher in the control group than in the intervention group (39.2% vs. 3.2%, p < 0.001). Significant differences were found between the two groups (intervention and control, respectively) for white blood cell count (6.2 vs. 7.8, p < 0.001), hemoglobin (12.3 vs. 13.3, p = 0.002), C‐reactive protein (CRP: 6 vs. 11.5, p < 0.0001) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST: 32 vs. 25.5, p < 0.0001). No differences were seen for hospital length of stay (11.98 ± 3.61 vs. 11.81 ± 3.52, p = 0.814) or the requirement for intensive care unit (ICU) admission (7.2% vs. 11.2%, p = 0.274). NAC was beneficial in reducing the mortality rate in patients with COVID‐19 and inflammatory parameters, and a reduction in the development of severe respiratory failure; however, it did not affect the length of hospital stay or the need for ICU admission. Data on the effectiveness of NAC for Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus‐2 is limited and further research is required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Despite the importance of health grey literature, there is not a comprehensive information system for managing these valuable resources in Iran. Objectives: This study aimed at identifying the barriers to and facilitators of implementing a comprehensive national information system for health grey literature. Material and method: This study applied the qualitative research method. Semi‐structured interviews were conducted among 19 experts in related fields. A qualitative content analysis was used to analyze the data in MAXQDA. The data were codified and revised constantly and classified in some selected main and sub‐categories based on their relative similarities and differences. Results: Data analysis identified some barriers to the implementation of an information system for health grey literature in Iran, including two main categories (and some sub‐categories): managerial issues (performance related issues, coordination issues, monitoring and supervision issues and attitudinal issues) and issues on data integration (data collecting issues, data recording issues, quality control issues, and issues on data organization, dissemination and use). Conclusion: Designing a national system for health grey literature in Iran needs a powerful authority, removing possible intersectional conflicts, a selection committee, written policies and strict quality control criteria, and protocols for storage, access, retrieval and metadata evaluation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The identification of amines is a highly beneficial process in the industrial sector; food corruption, including fish and shellfish and, more importantly, breathing amines, causes dangerous illnesses. In this study, the optical properties and amine sensing of a π‐conjugated organic compound, 1,4‐bis[4‐formylstyryl]benzene (BFSB), containing two aldehyde functional groups, was investigated. BFSB showed ultraviolet–visible absorption in the range of 318‐329 nm with a high molar extinction coefficient (ε = 2.21*105–2.83*105 M−1 cm−1) in the tested solvent with different polarities. BFSB emits in the visible spectrum (420‐514 nm) with Stokes shifts of ca. 6678‐11 991 cm−1. Density functional theory at the B3LYP/6–31 ++ G level of calculation was employed to evaluate the molar structures and frontier orbitals. The combination of BFSB with poly(methyl methacrylate) and polyvinyl alcohol polymers exhibits different photophysical properties. Interaction of this dye with various primary amines in both solution and solid forms leads to the quick formation of an imine group (the reaction of aldehyde with amine and then dehydration). A hypsochromic shift was observed upon treatment of amine with BFSB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multicomponent mixtures of bilayer lipids, thanks to the coexistence of liquid‐crystalline phases in their structures, may be used in the development of functional membranes. In such membranes interlayer ordering distributes across membrane lamellae, resulting in long‐range alignment of phase‐separated domains. In this paper, we explore the dynamics of this phenomenon by laser speckle pattern analysis. We show that cholesterol content decreases the activity, and the rate of the domains size development is related to the change of physical roughness of the multicomponent lipid mixture. Our results are in agreement with the previous experimental reports. However, our experimental procedure is an easy‐to‐implement and effective methodology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Irrigation & Drainage is the property of Wiley-Blackwell and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Irrigation & Drainage is the property of Wiley-Blackwell and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Hematopoiesis is a sensitive target of artemisinin (ART) and its derivatives, and hemolysis is one of their commonly reported side effects. l‐carnitine (LC), an amino acid derivative involved in lipid metabolism, is beneficial for hematological parameters. Sixty adult laboratory mice were randomly divided into six groups. Group I (control) received saline and corn oil; groups II and III received therapeutic (50 mg/kg) and toxic (250 mg/kg) doses of ART, respectively; groups IV and V received 370 mg/kg LC along with the 50 and 250 mg/kg ART, respectively; and group VI received 370 mg/kg LC. Drugs were administered orally for 7 consecutive days. The erythrocyte glucose 6‐phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD), catalase (CAT), and peroxidase (POX) activity, and the reduced glutathione (GSH) level were assessed by colorimetric methods. ART reduced the G6PD activity both at therapeutic and toxic doses. The therapeutic dose of ART reduced the CAT activity and the GSH level, nonsignificantly. The toxic dose of ART reduced the CAT activity and increased the POX activity. LC reduced the G6PD, CAT, and POX activities and increased GSH level. The therapeutic dose of ART and LC showed synergy in reducing the G6PD activity. LC and ART combination reduced POX activity and increased GSH level without any significant effect on the CAT activity. Inhibition of G6PD may be a potentially new mechanism of ART action. Coadministration of LC with ART or following treatment with ART may have protective effects on erythrocytes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The specific molecularly imprinted polymer for ribavirin was fabricated by using 3‐allyloxy‐1, 2‐propanediol and acrylic acid as the functional monomers, divinylbenzene and N, N'‐methylenebisacrylamide as the cross‐linkers, and azobisisobutyronitrile as the initiator. It was characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy combined with an energy dispersive X‐ray analyzer, and thermogravimetric analysis. Several factors affecting the extraction of ribavirin, such as pH, contact time, and temperature were also investigated. The molecularly imprinted polymer indicated high sorption capacity (3.1 mg g−1) for ribavirin, and the adsorption equilibrium was established after 15 min. The adsorption isotherm results could be well described with the Freundlich isotherm model. The linear range was 0.5–80 mg L−1, and recoveries ranging from 93 % to 102 % were achieved. The detection limit of ribavirin was identical at 0.82 μg L−1, and the relative standard deviation was 0.265 %. It was successfully used for ribavirin analysis in human urine and pharmaceutical samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Peritendinous adhesion is considered a major postsurgical tendon complication in hand surgery. This complication could be mitigated partially through early tendon mobilization. However, development of new treatment modalities to guide tissue regeneration and to reduce postsurgical tendon adhesion has recently gained attentions. In this article, synthesis and characterization of electrospun nanofibrous membranes (NFMs) of polycaprolactone (PCL) and chitosan to form a physical barrier against cellular migration leading to tendon adhesion is presented. The mechanical properties of the NFMs are modulated to maintain high integrity during postsurgical tendon mobilization. The tensile strength of the NFMs is examined in wet and dry conditions after 1000 cyclic pull loadings. In addition, the mechanical strength of the NFMs is evaluated after a degradation period of 30 days. To obtain NFM with desired properties, concentrations of polymer solutions, operation parameters of electrospinning and the thickness of NFMs were optimized. Based on the biodegradation and mechanical evaluations, the optimum NFM was obtained for specified amounts of PCL (5 wt %) + chitosan (2 wt %) at an electrospinning drum speed of 400 rpm. The engineered NFM could withstand forces of 33 and 19 N before and after 1000 pull cycles that are sufficient during tendon healing process. The bonding of chitosan fibers over PCL nanofibers allowed for production of NFMs with appropriate mechanical integrity and degradation rate. In vitro cell culture tests demonstrated that PCL/chitosan could only have minor impact on decreasing fibroblast attachment over the membranes probably due to protonation of amine groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims: Continuous scoring systems were developed versus traditional dichotomous approaches to define metabolic syndrome. The current study was carried out to evaluate the ability of scoring systems to predict fatal and nonfatal cardiovascular events. Materials and Methods: The data of 5147 individuals aged 18 years or more obtained from a population‐based cohort study were analyzed. The occurrence of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) in the period of 7 years follow‐up was considered as the associated outcome. Joint Interim Statement (JIS) definition, as a traditional definition of metabolic syndrome (MetS), and two versions of MetS scoring systems, based on standardized regression weights from structural equation modeling (SEM) and simple method for quantifying metabolic syndrome (siMS) were considered as potential predictors. Results: The scoring systems, particularly, based on SEM, were observed to have a significant association with composite cardiovascular events (HR = 1.388 [95% CI = 1.153–1.670], p =.001 in men and HR = 1.307 [0.95% CI = 1.120–1.526] in women) in multiple Cox proportional hazard regression analyses, whereas the traditional definition of MetS did not show any significant association. While both two scoring systems showed acceptable predictive abilities for cardiovascular events in women (MetS score based on SEM: area of under curve [AUC] = 0.7438 [95% CI = 0.6195–0.7903] and siMS: AUC = 0.7207 [95% CI = 0.6676–0.7738]), the two systems were not acceptable for identifying risk in men. Conclusion: Unlike the dichotomous definition of MetS, the scoring systems showed an independent association with cardiovascular events. Scoring systems, particularly those based on SEM, may be useful for the prediction of cardiovascular events in women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the current study, polystyrene/carbon nanotubes/glass fiber (PS/CNT/GF) hybrid foam with a bimodal cellular‐structure has been fabricated via microwave heating as a novel energy source. Microwave‐assisted (MA) samples not only demonstrated the lowest density as compared to traditional methods but also represented superior compressive mechanical properties. Since the bimodal morphology has not been seen so far, the role of selective microwave heating has been thoroughly investigated from the microstructural point of view. Accordingly, the amount of receiving microwave radiations to heat up the system is controllable via the CNTs (as nucleating agents and absorbers) as well as radiation time. Moreover, 1–15 wt% fibers were incorporated to enhance mechanical performance, which led to turning uniform cellular structure to the bimodal pattern, and its cell morphological was studied thereafter. Electrical conductivity and dielectric permittivity properties have not been deprived of bimodality benefits which have been rigorously proven. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microwave‐assisted synthesis of Chromium (III) Terephthalate Metal Organic Framework, MIL‐101(Cr), was achieved in an aqueous media in the absence of hydrofluoric acid (HF). The synthesized material was characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, powder X‐ray diffraction, nitrogen adsorption/desorption isotherms and field emission scanning electron microscope. Results indicate that the synthesized MIL‐101(Cr) using microwave irradiation poses higher surface area than those obtained using autoclave in a conventional oven method. Adsorptive removal of 1‐naphthol from aqueous solution using synthesized MIL‐101(Cr) was evaluated at various temperatures and concentrations. The Langmuir and Freundlich isotherms are used to describe the adsorption equilibrium behavior. The pseudo–second order and intraparticle kinetic models were applied to understand the rate limiting step and the mechanism of 1‐naphthol adsorption. The thermodynamic analysis of solid‐liquid system was investigated. The synthesized MIL‐101(Cr) showed higher 1‐naphthol adsorption capacity, compared to other adsorbents like biochar and multiwall carbon nanotube. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]