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Abstract Trace elements, specifically magnesium (Mg), zinc (Zn), and selenium (Se) have been linked with immunomodulatory properties. This research delves into identifying the potential impression of serum levels Mg, Zn, and Se on the protective immunity arisen through Sinopharm COVID-19 vaccine in the vaccinated subjects. Levels of Mg, Zn, and Se, cytokine and antibody production as well as virus neutralization potency were investigated in 75 males and 75 females before and 2 weeks after first and second dose of vaccination. Level of Mg, Zn, and Se did not change significantly before and 2 weeks after first and second dose of vaccine administration. Concentrations of Interleukin (IL)-2, IL-6, and Interferon (IFN)-γ were significantly higher in the supernatant of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) obtained from subjects 2 weeks after both first and second dose of vaccination compared to before vaccination. Serum level IgG was significantly higher 2 weeks after first and second dose of vaccination compared to before vaccination. Serum level IgM was only higher after first dose of vaccination compared with before vaccine. Also, 2 weeks after both first and second dose of vaccination compared to before vaccination, FRNT50 titer was significantly higher. Levels of Mg, Zn, and Se did not significantly correlate with levels of IL-2, IL-6, IFN-γ, IgM and IgG, and FRNT50 after first and second dose of vaccination. No severe unwanted clinical symptoms were detected after vaccination. Mg, Zn, and Se do not play a role in modulating protective immunity during Sinopharm COVID-19 vaccine.

Abstract Extreme heat events have become more common and more severe during summer than ever before as a result of the warming climate in Australia. The impact of urban morphology and green coverage on outdoor thermal comfort has been the subject of extensive research, however, their link to suburban developments of different historic periods is still underexplored. This paper investigates and compares the outdoor thermal performance of ten suburban areas constructed since the late nineteenth century in Greater Adelaide, which were built to different planning ideals and concepts of their time. Microclimate models of two precedents for five development eras were constructed in ENVI-met, validated with site data related to a recent heatwave event in 2023, and then used to facilitate further investigation of the impact of development patterns on outdoor thermal comfort. This study examines how these urban patterns perform in scenarios of varying development intensity and greenery ratio. In these case studies, the distance between buildings, streets’ spatial ratio and green coverage has a significant impact on the thermal environment. The results underline the impact of solar exposure on outdoor thermal performance even in lower-density suburban areas. Some of the outcomes of the study are counter-intuitive to conventional assumptions about urban design typologies. In this comparison, for example, one of the “green” model garden city developments did not perform as well as denser 19th-century suburbs. The results can support better decision-making for future urban planning in Australia and other regions with similar climate conditions. The study shows that real performance does not always align with stated green ambitions and, urban design should consider and evaluate heat mitigation through evidence-based testing to achieve real green development.

Abstract Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most prevalent obesity-related diseases in women of reproductive age. Linkage between diet and PCOS are still controversial. Dietary obesity prevention score (DOS) is one of the new indicators of diet evaluation which have been previously linked to obesity. To the best of our knowledge, this study was the first to investigate the relationship between DOS and PCOS. In this case–control study, 100 newly diagnosed women with PCOS and 100 age–matched women without PCOS were assayed from clinics affiliated to Kashan university of medical sciences, Kashan, Iran. A validated semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire was used to evaluate food intakes. DOS was calculated based on previous published guideline. Anthropometric measurements were carefully measured by a trained nutritionist. A 10-houres fasting plasma blood sample was collected for all participants. Fasting blood sugar (FBS), triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (CHOL), High density lipoprotein (HDL), Low density lipoprotein (LDL) and C - reactive protein (CRP) were measured based on laboratory methods. The mean age and BMI of study participants was 23.6 year and 24.9 kg/m2 respectively. After adjustment for potential confounders, adherence to DOS score was inversely associated with CRP levels. People in the top tertile of DOS had lower CRP level compared to people in the bottom tertile (3.71 compared to 4.48 mg/dl) (P = 0.04). In addition, participant in the top tertile of DOS had marginally significant higher level of FBS compared to participants in the bottom tertile (92.3 vs. 88.9 mg/dl, P = 0.051). After adjustment for all confounding factors people in the highest tertile of DOS had a 46% non-significant lower odds for PCOS compared to people in the lowest tertile (95% CI: 0.23–1.25; P-trend = 0.15). In the present study, an inverse significant association was seen between adherence to DOS and inflammation. However, no significant relationship was observed between DOS and odds of having PCOS. Further longitudinal studies are suggested to investigate the association between DOS and PCOS.

Abstract Rhizomania is the most destructive sugar beet disease in the world, and in recent years, it has widespread in most of the sugar beet growing areas in Iran. Since the control of this soil-borne disease is a difficult task, the use of resistant genotypes is known as the best measure against the disease. The ultimate goal of sugar beet breeders is to produce genotypes that can be used in both infected and non-infected fields without any reduction in terms of yield and quality. Twenty-one sugar beet genotypes along with four controls were evaluated in randomized complete block design with four replications in fields with natural infection to rhizomania in five research stations. Important sugar beet traits including root yield, sugar yield, sugar content, and white sugar yield were evaluated for two years (2021 and 2022). For all traits, location was the main source of variation that spanned 33 to 55% of the total sum of the square followed by the location×year×genotype accounted for 3–40% of the variation. Based on the results of analysis of variance, multivariate stability parameters were computed to evaluate the genotypes’ stability. The first two principal components (IPCA1 and IPCA2) generated by GGE biplot contributed for 31.3 and 17.5% difference in genotype×environment interaction for root yield, respectively. According to the GGE biplot, genotypes RM-11 and RM-12 were identified as the winning genotypes across environments for both root yield and white sugar yield traits whereas AMMI model identified RM-14 and RM-9 (for root yield) and RM-1 (for white sugar yield) as best genotypes. Based on the ideal genotype ranking, RM-11 and RM-10 were the best performer with a high mean yield as well as stability in the studied environments. The biplot rendered using the weighted average of absolute scores (WAASB) and root yield and white sugar yield identified RM-11 and RM-9 as superior genotypes in terms of yield and stability. The selected genotypes can be used in breeding programs to transfer the disease resistance and cultivar development.

Introduction: Protecting the privacy of internet customers is crucial in the field of health. In this area, there is sensitive and personal information, and privacy can increase customers’ trust in companies and create a stronger relationship between them.Methods: The target sample was chosen using a criterion-oriented purposeful sampling method. The sampling procedure was continued until the theoretical saturation of data was reached. Accordingly, 12 professors and administrators participated in the study. The data collection tool was a semi-structured interview. Nvivo software was used for theme analysis.Results: Based on the theme analysis method, two constructive themes of level one and 14 themes of level two were identified. Constructive themes of level one were technological infrastructure and obligations of the seller to the consumer. The themes of technological infrastructure were personalization services, social interaction performance, access control, information technology security, security enforcement measures, safety algorithm and data-based planning, and decision making. The constructive themes of the seller’s obligations to the consumer were awareness, user and seller education, safety, maintenance and support of information, responsibility, framework and principles, and trust.Conclusion: The proposed model showed that privacy protection was essential. Medical device businesses should implement a robust privacy policy, closely monitoring access, training employees on privacy protection, and upgrading security systems.

Abstract Dogs are the primary reservoirs of Leishmania infantum (L. infantum), but Leishmania tropica (L. tropica) infection is also possible in dogs and can transmitted to humans. The southeast of Iran experiences a high prevalence of canine leishmaniasis (CanL), and veterinarians frequently encounter symptomatic cases. Therefore, from December 2017 to November 2022, the present case series was designed to assess the prevalence of CanL in owned dogs with cutaneous manifestations resembling CanL. A total of 500 owned dogs with dermal lesions from two endemic cities, Zabol and Kerman, were enrolled. Impression smears from skin lesions and popliteal lymph nodes were prepared from all cases, whereas blood samples were gathered from amastigote-positive dogs for serological and molecular surveys. Commercial ELISA was done on sera samples, and two-step nested PCR was used on extracted DNA to amplify variable fragments of the Leishmania species’ kinetoplast DNA (kDNA). Leishman bodies were microscopically detected in 7.2% (36/500) of dermal smears. Of the 360 owned dogs from Zabol, 2 have been diagnosed with L. tropica, and 10 have been diagnosed with L. infantum. Out of 140 owned dogs from Kerman, 8 were identified with L. tropica infection, and 16 were infected with L. infantum. Molecular results revealed the presence of 750 full dual-band bases related to the L. tropica species in 10/36 (27.7%) cases, which showed a considerable increase in canine cutaneous leishmaniosis compared with previous studies in southeastern Iran. The noticeable prevalence of L. tropica in owned dogs indicated that the dog’s role in cutaneous leishmaniosis should be re-evaluated as a possible animal reservoir in endemic areas.

Abstract Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) have been implicated as a tumor microenvironment (TME) cell population, which may be playing a vital role in the inhibition of effective T cell responses in the prostate TME. In this manuscript, we leverage a novel microscale cell culture platform, known as Stacks, to investigate mono-, co-, and tri-culture TME models comprised of prostate tumor cell lines, primary macrophages, and autologous T cells from patients with prostate cancer. Through multiplexed analysis of these multi-cellular prostate tumor models, we capture a dynamic interaction between primary TAMs and activated T cells that resulted in reciprocal proinflammatory activation of both cell populations upon interaction. These findings suggest that activated T cells are capable of reprogramming immunosuppressive TAMs in the context of prostate tumor models and that TAM reprogramming may play a key supportive role in restoring proinflammatory T cell tumor responses in the prostate TME.

Abstract Background Motivation is a critical factor in the success of nursing students, as it significantly influences their ability to acquire the necessary knowledge and skills for the nursing profession. Insufficient motivation can result in a lack of engagement with learning activities, thereby impeding the development of essential competencies. Aim This study aimed to translate the Motivation for Nursing Student Scale (MNSS) into Persian and evaluate its psychometric properties within the context of nursing students in Iran. Method This methodological cross-sectional study involved a sample of 542 nursing students selected through convenience sampling. The MNSS was translated into Persian following the guidelines recommended by the World Health Organization. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA), confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), and assessments of internal consistency were conducted to evaluate the validity and reliability of the instrument. Results The EFA and CFA validated the structure of the instrument, identifying four factors and 20 items, which explained 58.68% of the total variance. The CFA results indicated a well-fitting model with the following indices: CFI = 0.91, GFI = 0.93, IFI = 0.946, TLI = 0.92, RMSEA = 0.061, and SRMR = 0.049. The Cronbach’s alpha coefficient and Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC) for the scale were 0.882 and 0.802, respectively. Conclusion The Persian version of the MNSS demonstrates satisfactory reliability and validity, making it a dependable instrument for measuring the academic motivation of nursing students. This tool can be effectively used to assess the motivation of nursing students in Iran.

Abstract Glypican-3 (GPC-3) is predominantly found in the placenta and fetal liver, with limited expression in adult tissues. Its re-expression in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and secretion into the serum highlights its potential as a diagnostic marker. GPC-3 is involved in important cellular processes such as proliferation, metastasis, apoptosis, and epithelial–mesenchymal transition through various signaling pathways including Wnt, IGF, YAP, and Hedgehog. To review the structure, biosynthesis, and post-translational modifications of GPC-3, and to elucidate its signaling mechanisms and role as a pro-proliferative protein in HCC, emphasizing its diagnostic and therapeutic potential. A comprehensive literature review was conducted, focusing on the expression of GPC-3 in various tumors, with a special emphasis on HCC. The review synthesized findings from experimental studies and clinical trials, analyzing the overexpression of GPC-3 in HCC, its differentiation from other liver diseases, and its potential as a diagnostic and therapeutic target. GPC-3 overexpression in HCC is linked to aggressive tumor behavior and poor prognosis, including shorter overall and disease-free survival. Additionally, GPC-3 has emerged as a promising therapeutic target. Ongoing investigations, including immunotherapies such as monoclonal antibodies and CAR-T cell therapies, demonstrate potential in inhibiting tumor growth and improving clinical outcomes. The review details the multifaceted roles of GPC-3 in tumorigenesis, including its impact on tumor-associated macrophages, glucose metabolism, and epithelial–mesenchymal transition, all contributing to HCC progression. GPC-3’s re-expression in HCC and its involvement in key tumorigenic processes underscore its value as a biomarker for early diagnosis and a target for therapeutic intervention. Further research is warranted to fully exploit GPC-3’s diagnostic and therapeutic potential in HCC management.

Abstract Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) and progression to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) exhibits distinct molecular and immune characteristics. These traits are influenced by multiple factors, including the gut microbiome, which interacts with the liver through the "gut–liver axis". This bidirectional relationship between the gut and its microbiota and the liver plays a key role in driving various liver diseases, with microbial metabolites and immune responses being central to these processes. Our review consolidates the latest research on how gut microbiota contributes to MASH development and its progression to HCC, emphasizing new diagnostic and therapeutic possibilities. We performed a comprehensive literature review across PubMed/MedLine, Scopus, and Web of Science from January 2000 to August 2024, focusing on both preclinical and clinical studies that investigate the gut microbiota’s roles in MASH and HCC. This includes research on pathogenesis, as well as diagnostic and therapeutic advancements related to the gut microbiota. This evidence emphasizes the critical role of the gut microbiome in the pathogenesis of MASH and HCC, highlighting the need for further clinical studies and trials. This is to refine diagnostic techniques and develop targeted therapies that exploit the microbiome’s capabilities, aiming to enhance patient care in liver diseases.

Background and Objective: The therapeutic outcomes of amblyopia after the age range of 8-10 years are poor, and amblyopia in older individuals is resistant to treatment. Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS), among the efforts intended to modulate cortical excitability in the treatment of psychiatric disorders, has been believed to be associated with a specific disease. This study aimed to determine the effect of rTMS on the treatment of treatment-resistant amblyopia in adult patients. Methods: This clinical trial was conducted on 16 patients (12 males and 4 females) with unilateral amblyopia, with a mean age of 30±5 years referring to the clinics of Khatam al-Anbia Eye Hospital, Mashhad, Iran, during 2016-17. Patients were randomly selected from those with unilateral amblyopia (refractive, strabismic, or mixed) who had not responded to conventional treatments (patching or penalization). The healthy eye was considered a control. The therapeutic intervention consisted of four rTMS sessions at two-week intervals. Visual acuity and contrast sensitivity were measured and compared three times: Before the intervention, at the first session of intervention, and at the fourth session of intervention. Results: The mean visual acuity at baseline (0.36±0.19) was not significantly different compared to the first treatment session (0.41±0.1); however, a significant increase was observed compared to the fourth session (0.45±0.23) (P

Background and Objectives: The present study was conducted with the aim of comparing the effectiveness of cognitive play therapy and computer-based working memory training on the attention of children with attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in Farsan City in 2021. Materials and Methods: The research method was quasi-experimental with a pretest-posttest and follow-up design and a control group. The statistical population consisted of all students aged 7 to 12 years with ADHD (n=180) in the city of Farsan. Thirty children diagnosed with mixed ADHD were selected using purposive sampling from clients of the Sobhe Omid Counseling Center in Farsan, following diagnosis by a psychiatrist and the completion of a children's symptoms questionnaire. These children were assessed using a Continuous Performance Test for sustained attention and impulsivity. A working memory training software and a structured short-term play therapy protocol specifically designed for children with ADHD were utilized. For data analysis, mixed-design ANOVA and Bonferroni post-hoc tests were applied. Results: The results showed that cognitive play therapy and computer-based working memory training affected the attention of children with ADHD in Farsan City (P

Abstract The cost estimation and assessment of healthcare waste treatment systems (HCWTSs) for preventing financial and environmental damage are essential. This work reports economic analyses of treatment of hazardous–infectious waste based on WHO approach in HCWTSS of 43 hospitals in Tehran, Iran. The waste generation rate for total hospital waste in 43 HCWTSS was 4.42 ± 2.77 kg/active-bed/day. The mean of chemical, sharps, infectious, and general wastes in 43 HCWTSS were 13.79 ± 19.71, 30.29 ± 37.46, 336.28 ± 291.31, and 539.6 ± 383.13 kg/day, respectively. Economic analyses proved that general hospitals spent 1.63 times more than specialized hospitals on treating hazardous–infectious waste per year. The annual cost of treating each kilogram of hazardous healthcare waste in studied HCWTSS was 0.3 dollars. A range of total annual costs in 43 HCWTSS was limited to 7.9–118 thousand dollars. The results of ANOVA test demonstrated that the age and performance levels of hospitals significantly affect the annual capital and operating costs, respectively. Hence, improving recycling knowledge and increasing source-separated recycling should be considered to control the costs in HCWTSS. The results of this work have implications for the hospital managers in especially developing countries to evaluate previously unknown economic analyses and policies and take action to control wasted costs in HCWTSS.

Abstract Background Chewing gum is a healthy, cheap, and familiar solution for patients with premature irritation of the stomach and intestines. This study compared the effect of chewing gum and the routine method on ileus after burns. Methods This study is a randomized clinical trial conducted in Valiasr Hospital in Arak, Markazi Province, in the center of Iran, from December 2021 to February 2023. After the diagnosis of intestinal ileus in 83 patients hospitalized in the burn department by a general surgeon, with the available sampling method, these patients were evaluated based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria of the study. As a result, 66 patients were selected and divided into groups A (33 patients in the intervention group: routine care + gum chewing) and B (33 patients in the control group: routine care) by random allocation method. For the intervention group, from entering the ward until the beginning of oral feeding, gum (without sugar) was chewed four times a day for 15 min, while control groups received the routine diet of the department. Both groups’ condition of the bowel sounds, time of passing gas, and stool were recorded. The statistical analyses were performed using SPSS version 16. The chi-squared, Fisher’s exact, Independent t-test, and Mann-Whitney U tests were utilized. Results The results showed that the median bowel sound return time, time of the first gas discharge, earliest defecation time, and time to start the diet were significantly shorter in the intervention group than in the control group (P

Abstract Preterm birth (PTB) remains a global health concern, impacting neonatal mortality and lifelong health consequences. Traditional methods for estimating PTB rely on electronic health records or biomedical signals, limited to short-term assessments in clinical settings. Recent studies have leveraged wearable technologies for in-home maternal health monitoring, offering continuous assessment of maternal autonomic nervous system (ANS) activity and facilitating the exploration of PTB risk. In this paper, we conduct a longitudinal study to assess the risk of PTB by examining maternal ANS activity through heart rate (HR) and heart rate variability (HRV). To achieve this, we collect long-term raw photoplethysmogram (PPG) signals from 58 pregnant women (including seven preterm cases) from gestational weeks 12–15 to three months post-delivery using smartwatches in daily life settings. We employ a PPG processing pipeline to accurately extract HR and HRV, and an autoencoder machine learning model with SHAP analysis to generate explainable abnormality scores indicative of PTB risk. Our results reveal distinctive patterns in PTB abnormality scores during the second pregnancy trimester, indicating the potential for early PTB risk estimation. Moreover, we find that HR, average of interbeat intervals (AVNN), SD1SD2 ratio, and standard deviation of interbeat intervals (SDNN) emerge as significant PTB indicators.

Objective(s): The purpose of this study was to develop and validate health insurance literacy assessment tool in Iran. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted with the aim of standardizing the Iranian tool for measuring health insurance literacy. The items of the tool were extracted from a qualitative study based on Paez et al. model. A total of 219 patients of a general medical center in southwest of Iran were randomly selected to participate in the study. Content validity was assessed estimating CVR and CVI and face validity was performed by a panel of experts. Structural validity was evaluated using the exploratory factor analysis. To measure reliability, we used Cronbach's alpha. Results: The findings of the study showed a 7-factor solution accounting for 66% of variance observed. Also a high internal consistency between the items was estimated (Cronbach's alpha=0.85) . All study constructs showed a positive and significant correlation with the main variable. Conclusion: The Iranian tool for measuring health insurance literacy as a valid and reliable tool can be used in Iran. This tool can be used in assessing the needs of interventions to empower the insured regarding how to apply insurance coverage in the health market.

Abstract Background Doctoral programs have consistently garnered the attention of policymakers in medical education systems due to their significant impact on the socio-economic advancement of countries. Therefore, various doctoral programs have been implemented with diverse goals. In Iran, a research doctorate program, known as PhD by Research, was introduced primarily to engage in applied research related to healthcare needs. Nevertheless, the achievement of the program’s goals has been questioned. This study aimed to identify the implementation challenges of the Research Doctorate Program and its solutions in Iran. Method This descriptive qualitative study followed the Standards for Reporting Qualitative Research: A Synthesis of Recommendations and was conducted in two steps. Firstly, the challenges of the Iranian Ph.D. by research program were identified through the perspectives of the program’s students and graduates. In the second step, relevant solutions to these challenges were determined by focus groups of key informant experts. The transcripts were analyzed using qualitative content analysis. Results Five students and six graduates were interviewed in the first step and seven experts participated in the second one. The challenges and related solutions are explored in four main themes, including: (1) admission criteria, (2) program goals and expected outcomes, (3) curricula, and (4) financial and human resources. The study showed that various dimensions of the doctoral program are not aligned with each other and how to adapt the program in these dimensions. Conclusion The study revealed the importance of a systematic approach in defining various dimensions of doctoral programs according to program goals and provided specific solutions for defining a research doctorate program in the context of a low- and middle-income country.

Abstract Over time, with the increase in population and the subsequent increase in energy consumption and also due to the non-renewability of fossil fuels, the study of alternative fuels has increased. One of these fuels is biodiesel, which is a suitable alternative to fossil fuels such as diesel and received much attention from researchers today. For this reason, measuring the physical properties of biodiesel is of great importance. Due to the high cost and time-consuming nature of laboratory methods, numerical methods are used to estimate material properties. The novelty of this research was the use of two white box models, including Group method of data handling (GMDH) and Gene expression programming (GEP), which work on the basis of artificial intelligence. By using these models, two simple mathematical equations with high accuracy were presented to predict the surface tension of biodiesel. These models can be used at different temperatures and molecular weights. To do modeling, 78 laboratory data available in the literature were gathered and the data were randomly divided into two groups, train and test, in a ratio of 80 and 20. The input parameters include mass fraction of fatty acid ethyl esters and temperature (T), and esters are divided into three groups according to their molecular weight: less than 200 (Mw1), between 200 and 300 (Mw2), and greater than 300 (Mw3). The statistical error parameters were calculated for the two models developed in this research and after comparing the results, it was found that the GMDH model estimates the surface tension of biodiesel with a higher accuracy. The average absolute relative error for GMDH and GEP models was reported as 0.97 and 1.89, respectively. Also, other statistical error parameters of GMDH such as RMSE, SD, and R2 for the GMDH model were obtained as 0.444, 0.000233, and 0.9233, respectively. Moreover, sensitivity analysis showed that temperature has the highest impact on the surface tension of biodiesel, which is also an inverse effect. Finally, suspicious laboratory and outlier data points were identified using the Leverage technique. According to this analysis, only five data points were identified as outliers and suspicious laboratory data.

This case report describes the rehabilitation of the Esthetic-Zone of the maxillary jaw of a 70-year-old female patient by using 4 implants (BEGO Semados® RS/RSX) with the challenging position of her implants due to her age and channel access of the Fixtures and also the Difficulty in supplying desired prosthetic parts due to existing problems. In the beginning, the treatment plan was to reconstruct the mouth using conventional restoration with UCLA abutments, but due to the unavailability of non-hex abutments As well as the failure to achieve the desired Esthetic demands of the patient by using this treatment plan, especially in the anterior implant area of the jaw, it Innovatively was decided to use a combination of cylindrical abutments (BEGO MultiPlus system) and UCLA abutments to Design and fabrication of the Final restoration. Keywords: Dental implant; Dental prosthesis; Static zone; Internal and external connection; Challenging case.

"nBackground and Aim: A considerable percentage of failure in Endodontic treatments in maxillary molars is attributed to undiscovered second mesiobuccal canal (MB2).There are different methods for discovering and accessing to this canal. The purpose of this ex vivo study was to compare the detection ability of three methods (direct look, fiberoptic loup and surgical microscope) to find MB2 after troughing with ultrasonic. "nMaterials and Methods: In this experimental study, we selected 90 extracted maxillary molars (45 first and 45 second molars) in which after access cavity preparation MB2 canal was not discovered by direct vision and endodontic explorer. They were divided into 3 groups (n=30). The dentinal shelf between mesiobuccal and palatal canals was eliminated by an endodontic ultrasonic tip (troughing). After that, first group was searched by direct vision, second group by a loup and fiberoptic light and third group by dental operating microscope. Data were analyzed, specificity and sensitivity were calculated. "nResults: The results showed that 21%, 61%, and 92% of MB2 canals after troughing was found by direct vision, fiberoptic loup, and surgical microscope, respectively. "nConclusion: Based on the results of this study, surgical microscope and loup with fiberoptic are preferred methods for discovering MB2 canal. Troughing with ultrasonic can help find MB2 canal in all methods.

Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) is the most prevalent liver disorder, characterized by the excessive accumulation of fat in the liver due to causes other than heavy alcohol consumption. The exact etiology of NAFLD remains unclear. Currently, lifestyle modifications, including diet and exercise, are the primary strategies for the prevention and treatment of NAFLD. However, certain plant bioactive compounds may also offer potential benefits for NAFLD management with acceptable safety profiles. These herbal medicines appear to play a significant role in mitigating oxidative stress by reducing insulin resistance, decreasing fat accumulation in the liver, and interacting with hepatic fat metabolism. Turmeric (Curcuma longa), a perennial plant from the ginger family (Zingiberaceae), contains the active ingredient curcumin. With its polyphenol structure, curcumin has long been recognized as a home remedy for various ailments. Numerous studies indicate that curcumin possesses antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, immune-regulating, nephroprotective, anti-cancer, hepatoprotective, and blood sugar-lowering properties through various signaling pathways and gene expression regulation. While substantial evidence from laboratory and animal studies supports the hepatoprotective effects of curcumin, the sole human study conducted in this area yielded inconclusive results. Therefore, this study aims to present a selection of definitive findings regarding the effects of curcumin/turmeric on NAFLD.

Background and Objectives: Dietary restrictions in phenylketonuria (PKU) can prevent children’s normal growth, and compensatory intake of carbohydrates and fats can cause excessive weight gain. This study aimed to investigate some growth indicators in PKU patients aged 6 months to 18 years in Hamadan City in 2023. Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional analytical study, the height, weight, and age of all patients ranging in age from 6 months to 18 years, who were registered at the PKU Center of Besat Hospital in Hamedan, were measured and recorded. Body mass index (BMI) was calculated using height and weight information. In addition, the corresponding z-scores were calculated using the online growth calculator software. Z-score values were classified into five levels using World Health Organization criteria. Results: In this study, 80 PKU patients (including 44 girls and 36 boys) were examined. The average age, as well as the average Z-score of height, weight, and BMI for age, were not significantly different in boys and girls. Moreover, 7.5% of children were underweight, 1.3% were severely underweight, 10% were stunted, and 2.5% were severely stunted. Ten percent of children were severely wasted and 6.3% were wasted. On the other hand, 11.3% were overweight. None of these children were obese. Conclusion: In addition to controlling the dietary intake of phenylalanine, it is necessary to continuously monitor the growth indicators of these children and also to control the intake of calories, macronutrients, and micronutrients accurately based on the child's needs.

Background The aim of this study was to investigate the association of osteosarcopenia with frailty and poor health conditions among older Iranian adults. Methods This cross-sectional study analyzed data from the Bushehr Elderly Health Program. Osteosarcopenia was defined as the presence of osteopenia/osteoporosis and sarcopenia, while the Fried criteria were used to assess frailty. We assessed the history of falls and health-related quality of life (HRQoL), including physical and mental component summaries (PCS and MCS, respectively), history of fractures, activities of daily living (ADL), and instrumental activities of daily living (IADL), as indicators of poor health conditions. Results This study included a total of 2,371 older adults. The prevalence rates of osteosarcopenia-only, frailty-only, and osteosarcopenia with frailty were 17.4%, 3%, and 4.8%, respectively. The prevalence of a history of falls, poor ADL, and poor IADL was significantly higher in the frailty-only and osteosarcopenia with frailty groups. Osteosarcopenia with frailty was significantly associated with a history of falls (adjusted odds ratio [adjOR]=1.94; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.20–3.15), poor ADL (adjOR=2.85; 95% CI, 1.81–4.50), and poor IADL (adjOR=5.09; 95% CI, 2.85–9.11). However, the frailty-only group also showed an association with falls and poor ADL and IADL. Only osteosarcopenia was associated with an increased OR for fracture. Frailty had the greatest effect on the MCS and PCS scores, whereas osteosarcopenia with frailty had a moderate impact. Conclusion Osteosarcopenia with frailty significantly increased the odds of falls, poor ADL, poor IADL, and lower HRQoL compared with the robust group. Combined osteosarcopenia and frailty were not associated with poor health. These findings indicate the importance of diagnosing osteosarcopenia and frailty as separate entities to provide appropriate interventions and treatment.

Abstract Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a diverse disease with a complex pathophysiology. The presence of extracellular β-amyloid deposition as neuritic plaques and intracellular accumulation of hyper-phosphorylated tau as neurofibrillary tangles remain the core neuropathologic criteria for diagnosing Alzheimer's disease. Nonetheless, several recent basic discoveries have revealed significant pathogenic roles for other essential cellular and molecular processes. Previously, there were not so many disease-modifying medications (DMT) available as drug distribution through the blood–brain barrier (BBB) is difficult due to its nature, especially drugs of polypeptides nature and proteins. Recently FDA has approved lecanemab as DMT for its proven efficacy. It is also complicated to deliver drugs for diseases like epilepsy or any brain tumor due to the limitations of the BBB. After the advancements in the drug delivery system, different techniques are used to transport the medication across the BBB. Other methods are used, like enhancement of brain blood vessel fluidity by liposomes, infusion of hyperosmotic solutions, and local intracerebral implants, but these are invasive approaches. Non-invasive approaches include the formulation of nanoparticles and their coating with polymers. This review article emphasizes all the above-mentioned techniques, procedures, and challenges to transporting medicines across the BBB. It summarizes the most recent literature dealing with drug delivery across the BBB.

Abstract Waste from construction and demolition (also known as CDW) is one of the most harmful environmental issues. This study's primary goal is to produce new mortar and brick materials from recycled concrete powder (RCP) and recycled brick powder (RBP), two of the most popular CDW. Geopolymeric mortar and brick samples were produced by passing RCP and RBP through sieve No. 50 (with sand filler if necessary) and combining them with an alkaline solution made of water glass (WG) and NaOH. In this study, the mixture was then cured for three days at 80 °C in an oven. The effects of filler, RBP amount, WG amount, and the concentration of NaOH alkaline solution on the samples’ strength were examined. Additionally, XRF and SEM/XRD tests were performed to verify the materials' composition and microstructure. The mechanical strength of the samples showed an increase with the increase of RCP values, so the brick sample with filler showed the highest compressive strength, measuring 59.53 MPa. The study's samples exhibited strong mechanical properties. Additionally, all of the bricks' water absorption fell within the standard range. In summary, according to different standards, both waste concrete and waste brick can be used to produce geopolymer materials especially bricks for construction and paving purposes.

Abstract HHT has emerged as a notable compound in the realm of cancer treatment, particularly for hematological malignancies. Its multifaceted pharmacological properties extend beyond traditional applications, warranting an extensive review of its mechanisms and efficacy. This review aims to synthesize comprehensive insights into the efficacy of HHT in treating hematological malignancies, diverse cancers, and other biomedical applications. It focuses on elucidating the molecular mechanisms, therapeutic potential, and broader applications of HHT. A comprehensive search for peer-reviewed papers was conducted across various academic databases, including ScienceDirect, Web of Science, Scopus, American Chemical Society, Google Scholar, PubMed/MedLine, and Wiley. The review highlights HHT's diverse mechanisms of action, ranging from its role in leukemia treatment to its emerging applications in managing other cancers and various biomedical conditions. It underscores HHT's influence on cellular processes, its efficacy in clinical settings, and its potential to alter pathological pathways. HHT demonstrates significant promise in treating various hematological malignancies and cancers, offering a multifaceted approach to disease management. Its ability to impact various physiological pathways opens new avenues for therapeutic applications. This review provides a consolidated foundation for future research and clinical applications of HHT in diverse medical fields.

Introduction: It is unlikely that the population growth rate has stayed steady in recent years, given the present situation in Iran. There has been a slight rise in population growth over the past 60 years, according to birth, mortality, and census results from 1956 to 2016. Material & Methods: Mathematical modeling is a common element of computer programs used to predict population growth. This model was applied as a useful and instructive tool in the present research to predict Iran's population until 2041. Results: The standard mathematical modeling approach predicted the total population using the data from Iran's 1956–2016 census using different mathematical modeling methods. The descriptive population growth prediction model (exponential) outperformed the other techniques in terms of compatibility with historical population data. Furthermore, it proved to be highly effective and appropriate for projecting Iran's population in the future. For the year 2041, the following population estimates were projected: A total population of 113,215,189, a male population of 57,366,315, a female population of 55,848,874, an urban population of 83,786,814, a rural population of 29,428,375, and a total population of Iran exceeding 100 million people during the year 2031. Discussion & Conclusion: Combining the exponential and hyperbolic extrapolation models allows for the prediction that Iran's population will increase to 159,852,540 people by the year 2075, which is twice as many as that of the 2016 census. Moreover, it is also feasible to calculate the approximate total population that lived 100,000 years before the 1956 census using mathematical modeling.

Introduction: Cardiovascular diseases are among the most lethal physical diseases of the 21st century, posing a greater threat to human life than any other disease and problem. This research compared the effectiveness of mindfulness-based stress reduction and emotion-focused therapy on the cognitive flexibility of cardiovascular patients in Isfahan City.Methods: The research was conducted using a quasi-experimental design with a pre-test-post-test and a three-month follow-up with a control group. The statistical population included 380 male cardiovascular patients admitted to Shahid Chamran Cardiovascular Hospital in Isfahan in the winter of 2023. Forty-five patients were selected by purposive sampling and randomly assigned to two experimental groups and one control group. Patients in the first experimental group received eight 90-minute sessions of mindfulness-based stress reduction, while those in the second experimental group received eight 90-minute sessions of emotion-focused therapy. The measurement tools were the Cognitive Flexibility Questionnaire (Dennis & Vanderwaal, 2010) and a short clinical interview. Research data were analyzed through mixed variance analysis using SPSS version 24 software.Results: The results showed that both intervention methods increased the average cognitive flexibility and its components, including alternatives, control, and alternatives for human behaviors of patients (P≥0.01). No significant difference was observed between the effectiveness of the two methods (P≤0.01).Conclusion: According to the research results, it is possible to use the intervention method of mindfulness-based stress reduction program and emotion-focused therapy to improve the cognitive flexibility of cardiovascular patients.

Abstract Background Tuberculous meningitis (TBM) accounts for about 1% of all tuberculosis cases and about 5% of extrapulmonary tuberculosis cases. However, it poses major importance because approximately half of those affected die or become severely disabled. Herein, the successful treatment of an 11-month-old boy with progressive limb weakness, fever, developmental retardation, and loss of consciousness due to tuberculosis, was reported. Case presentation An 11-month-old (Iranian Turk) boy was referred to Loghman Hakim hospital for progressive limb weakness and loss of previously attained developmental milestones for the past 2 months. He also had persistent fever and loss of consciousness for about 14 to 21 days. Before being referred to our center, the patient had been diagnosed with hydrocephalus at another center due to possible acute bacterial meningitis based on a CT scan and MRI imaging. On physical examination, anterior fontanel bulging and neck stiffness were observed on the admission. His body temperature and heart rate were 38.1 C and 86 beats per minute (bpm), respectively. He had left 6 cranial nerve palsy and spastic quadriparesis with a power of grade 3/5. Other systemic examinations were normal. Endoscopic third ventriculostomy (ETV) (and leptomeningeal biopsy) revealed diffuse thickening of the floor and lateral walls of the 3rd ventricle and also a cobblestone appearance in the form of multiple white patchy lesions was detected on the floor of the 3rd ventricle. CSF analysis and polymerase chain reaction confirmed the TB meningitis. During hospitalization, a temporary EVD (external ventricular drain) was initially inserted. Eventually, defervescence was denoted 5–6 days after initiation of anti-TB medications, and a permanent ventriculoperitoneal shunt was inserted due to hydrocephalus. Gradually his truncal and limb tone and motor function improved, as did his emotional responses to his parents and ability to eat. The patient can walk without help in the 15th month following the operation and resolved hydrocephalus demonstrated on follow-up imaging. Conclusion Over half of treated TB meningitis patients die or suffer severe neurological sequelae, mainly due to late diagnosis. Hence, early diagnosis and prompt initiation of TB treatment offer the best chance of a good neurological outcome.

Abstract Background One of the new educational systems is the mentorship method. This study aimed to investigate the effect of peer mentoring program on clinical academic progress and psychological characteristics of operating room students. Methods This research was a randomized controlled trial that was conducted on undergraduate students in the operating room department of Khomein Faculty of Medical Sciences, Markazi Province in Iran. The number of operating room students were 70 that were divided into intervention and control groups by random allocation using Permuted Block Randomization. Inclusion criteria included all operating room students who were in internship, and exclusion criteria included failure to complete the questionnaires. The data collection tools were the demographic questionnaire, Depression Anxiety Stress Scale, Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale and Situational Motivational Scale. In the control group, clinical training was done in the traditional way. In the intervention group, training was done by peer mentoring method. The obtained data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, independent t-test, paired t-test, chi-square test, ANCOVA, univariable and multivariable linear regression. Results The study revealed significant differences between the intervention and control groups. Post-intervention, the intervention group demonstrated substantial increases in self-confidence (mean difference = 5.97, p 0.05). Furthermore, the intervention significantly enhanced academic progress in the intervention group compared to the control group (mean difference = 20.31, p

Key Clinical Message A report of Balo's concentric sclerosis developed alongside with fingolimod use in a patient with previously diagnosed multiple sclerosis.

Key Clinical Message Leishmaniasis can mimic many conditions, including hordeolum, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma. The presence of kinetoplast in free‐form or intramacrophage amastigotes, ensuring us to establish the microscopic diagnosis of leishmaniasis.

Background and Aim: 7SK is a long non-coding RNA that interacts with various proteins to regulate gene transcription. This study aimed to assess the impact of exosomal delivery of 7SK on viability, expression of apoptosis-related genes, and migration in the human colorectal cancer cell line HT-29. Methods: In this experimental study, HT-29 cells were treated with exosomes derived from human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells loaded with 7SK (Exo-7SK). Control groups included cells treated with unloaded exosomes and untreated cells. The levels of 7SK in the cells, and expression of apoptosis-related genes were measured by real-time PCR, cell viability assessed by the MTT assay, and cell migration evaluated using the transwell assay. Results: Treatment of HT-29 cells with Exo-7SK resulted in increased levels of 7SK, reduced viability, downregulation of the anti-apoptotic gene BCL-2, upregulation of the apoptosis-inducing gene BAX, and decreased migration. Conclusion: Exosomal delivery of 7SK can effectively decrease the viability and migration of colorectal cancer cells. Further research is warranted to explore the therapeutic potential of this approach in colorectal cancer.

Background and Objectives: This study explored the association between breastfeeding vs. infant formula and the risk of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), considering parental education and employment as conferring variables. Materials and Methods: This case-control study was performed on 35 ASD children aged 6-12 years and 70 healthy children matched in terms of age and gender. Age, gender, postnatal nutrition, parental employment, and parental education were recorded with parental cooperation. Results: There was a statistically significant difference (P=0.005) between the two groups regarding the type of postnatal milk type. Consumption of infant formula alone or combined with breast milk and maternal employment, especially in governmental occupation, were associated with the risk of ASD incidence. Conclusion: This study provides further evidence of the possible protective effect of exclusive breastfeeding against ASD. In addition, child-mother physical distance due to maternal employment seemed to play a considerable role in the risk of ASD incidence.

Background and Objectives: Human milk has properties that can be absorbed in terms of quality and quantity, providing the energy and growth of the child. The theory of planned behavior is one of the patterns of behavior change aimed at determining the main behavior. In this model, the intention itself is affected by three independent constructs: attitude, abstract norm, and control. The present study aimed to assess the factors affecting the tendency towards exclusive breastfeeding based on the theory of planned behavior in mothers referring to comprehensive health centers in Abadan and Khorramshahr in 2022-2023. Materials and Methods: This descriptive-analytical cross-sectional study was conducted on 162 nursing mothers in Khorramshahr and Abadan in 2022 using multi-stage sampling. In this study, the theory of planned behavior (TPB) questionnaire was used. Cronbach's alpha coefficient was also used to check the reliability of the tool. Data were analyzed in AMOS software (version 24). Results: This study was conducted on 162 lactating mothers living in Abadan and Khorramshahr. In the descriptive statistics analysis, the highest and lowest mean scores were related to attitude level (34.96) and behavioral intention (11.24). Moreover, the correlation between demographic factors and breastfeeding revealed that some variables, such as parents' education, exerted a marked effect on exclusive breastfeeding. Conclusion: The results of the study pointed out that more than half of the children under six months were exclusively breastfed, and the initiation of breastfeeding in the first two hours of birth is one of the most important factors affecting breastfeeding. Health policymakers need to devote close attention to strengthening the child's breastfeeding attitude as soon as possible.

Abstract This research investigated the utilization of graphene quantum dot/montmorillonite (GQD/MMT) as an effective nanofiller in a hydrogel composed of salep biopolymer. The semi-IPN hydrogel was synthesized using salep as the substrate, acrylamide (AAm) as the monomer, ammonium persulfate (APS) as an initiator in free radical polymerization, and N,N'-methylenebisacrylamide (MBA) as a cross-linking agent. The hydrogels were applied to remove safranin (SA), methylene blue (MB), crystal violet (CV), methyl green (MG), congo red (CR), and malachite green (MG) dyes from the water. The diverse properties were analyzed using a scanning electron microscope, fourier infrared spectroscopy, mapping, energy dispersive spectroscopy, weighing analysis, X-ray diffraction, and thermal stability analyses. The optimism of the prepared adsorbent in dye absorption was evaluated by measuring the swelling amount, pH impact, adsorbent dosage, and contact time. The adsorption calculations were described using kinetics and isotherm models. The results indicated that the Langmuir isotherm model (R2 = 99.6) and the pseudo-second-order kinetic model (R2 = 99.9) provided the best fit for the absorption process of MB. The presence of additional amounts of GQD/MMT had a reciprocal effect on the adsorption efficiency due to the accumulation of GQD/MMT in the semi-interpenetrating polymer network (semi-IPN (structure. The findings revealed that the samples exhibited high thermal stability, and the absorption process was primarily chemical. Furthermore, the nanocomposite hydrogels demonstrated distinct mechanisms for absorbing anionic dye (CR) and cationic dye (MB). Under optimal conditions, using 7 wt% GQD/MMT at a concentration of 5 ppm, pH = 7, an adsorbent dosage of 50 mg, at room temperature, and a contact time of 90 min, the maximum removal efficiencies were achieved: MB (96.2%), SA (98.2%), MG (86%), CV (99.8%), MG (95.8%), and CR (63.4%). These results highlight the adsorbent's high absorption capacity, rapid removal rate, and reusability, demonstrating its potential as an eco-friendly and cost-effective solution for removing dyes from water.

Abstract Scientists have been compelled to search for alternative treatments due to the increasing prevalence of chemoresistance as well as the agonising and distressing side effects of both chemotherapy and radiation. Plant extracts have been exploited to treat various medical conditions for ages. Considering this fact, the main focus of various recent studies that are being conducted to find new and potent anticancer drugs involves the identification and utilisation of potential therapeutic chemicals present in plant extracts. Koetjapic acid (KJA), which belongs to the family of triterpenes, is primarily isolated from Sandoricum koetjape. Ongoing investigations into its therapeutic applications have revealed its tendency to impede the growth and proliferation of cancer cells. Koetjapic acid activates the intrinsic apoptotic pathway and promotes the death of cancer cells. Moreover, it inhibits angiogenesis and the dissemination of tumour (metastasis) by targeting the VEGF signalling cascade. Therefore, this study aims to elucidate the underlying mechanism of anticancer activity of koetjapic acid, providing significant insight into the compound’s potential as an anticancer agent.

Abstract Dust pollution poses environmental hazards, affecting agriculture through reduced sunlight exposure, photosynthesis, crop yields, and food security. This study explores the interference of dust pollution on herbicide efficacy to control weeds in a semi-arid region. In a factorial experiment conducted in 2019 and replicated in 2020, the interaction of dust and various herbicide applications, including bentazon, sulfosulfuron, tribenuron-methyl, aminopyralid + florasulam, foramsulfuron + iodosulfuron + thiencarbazone, 2,4-D + MCPA, and acetochlor, in controlling Amaranthus retroflexus L. were assessed. Dust induced a 9.2% reduction in the total chlorophyll content of A. retroflexus, while herbicide application independently led to a 67.5% decrease. Contrary to expectations, herbicides performed better in dust, except bentazon, which caused a 28% drop in plant height and a 29% decrease in total biomass compared to non-dust conditions. Both herbicides and dust exerted suppressive effects on A. retroflexus's leaf and stem weights and overall biomass. Despite dust presence, tribenuron-methyl (95.8%), aminopyralid + florasulam (95.7%), sulfosulfuron (96.5%), and foramsulfuron + iodosulfuron + thiencarbazone (97.8%) effectively controlled A. retroflexus. These findings indicate that dust's effect on herbicide efficacy is herbicide-dependent but except bentazon, dust generally increased herbicide efficacy and amplified the control of A. retroflexus.

Abstract Soils in arid and semi-arid regions like Iran have suffered greatly from low organic matter content and low water availability. Traditional tillage and the overuse of chemical fertilizers are accelerating the problems in the region. So, sensible and sustainable strategies such as conservation tillage and natural organic inputs are becoming increasingly important to enhance organic matter and humidity in the soil and grow high-quality crops in agroecosystems. Thus, in 2019 and 2020, a split-split plot arrangement within a randomized complete block design was conducted in Iran to assess the effects of irrigated conditions, tillage systems, and biochar on the aforementioned traits. There were two irrigation conditions (irrigated and dryland) as the main plots, three tillage methods (conventional, minimum, and no-tillage) as sub-plots, and two application rates for biochar (0 and 15 ton ha−1) as sub-sub plots. The findings indicated that biochar application enhanced grain yield across all tillage methods under both irrigation conditions. Biochar with minimum tillage improved oil yield by 23% and 29% compared to those that did not use biochar under the dryland and irrigated conditions, respectively. Moreover, oil yield was higher in 2020 than in 2019 for all tillage systems and biochar rates. The main components of Nigella sativa L. oil belong to linoleic, oleic, and palmitic acids. Minimum tillage with biochar under irrigated conditions in 2020 and no-tillage without biochar under dryland conditions in 2019 had the most (59%) and the least linoleic acid (53%), respectively. Conventional, minimum, and no-tillage with biochar in dryland conditions significantly increased linoleic acid by 2%, 3%, and 5% compared to those without biochar in 2020, respectively. In general, adopting biochar with minimum tillage produced the best outcomes for Nigella sativa L. yield, and grain oil quality under both irrigation conditions. It is recommended that farmers incorporate these practices to produce high-quality Nigella sativa L. in sustainable agricultural systems.

Abstract This pioneering research investigated apigenin potential to augment rooster sperm cryosurvival in an extender model. Apigenin is a natural antioxidant flavonoid showing promise for improved post-thaw sperm function. However, its effects on avian semen cryopreservation remain unexplored. This first study supplemented rooster sperm Lake extender with 0, 50, 100, 200, 400 μmol/L apigenin to determine the optimal concentrations for post-thaw quality. Supplementation with 100 μmol/L apigenin resulted in significant enhancements in total motility (from 41.5% up to 71.5%), progressive motility (18.1% to 29.1%) (p

Abstract Introduction Calcific tendinosis is a common condition caused by the deposition of hydroxyapatite crystals within the tendons that can impact any tendinous insertion. In this situation, ultrasound (US) may be a viable imaging modality in addition to radiography. Case presentation A 56-year-old Iranian male presented with left elbow pain. US evaluation at the lump site revealed a subcutaneous lipoma. Ultrasonography showed a thickened and diffusely heterogeneously hypoechoic pronator teres tendon. These characteristics were consistent with the diagnosis of calcific tendinosis. Discussion and conclusion Radiography is the most common and practical imaging modality for calcific tendinosis diagnosis. Despite this, the real-time nature of ultrasonography makes it both diagnostic and therapeutic in this condition. Other conditions, such as lipoma, may interfere with the proper diagnosis of calcific tendinosis.

Abstract Background Faculty evaluation is essential as a principle in educational organizations because it helps measure the quantity and quality of education in universities and educational institutions. There are various ambiguities regarding the desirable and deserving characteristics of a good teacher. Therefore, this study was conducted with the aim of investigating factors affecting the evaluation of teachers’ medical universities from the perspective of students. Methods A systematic review study was conducted by searching for studies in both Persian and English languages from 2014 to 2022 in the following databases: Pubmed, Web of Science, Scopus, Cochrane, Google Scholar, and ScienceDirect, Magiran, SID, Iran Doc using keywords including Evaluation, Assessment, Estimate, Appraisement, Appraisal, Faculty Member, Professor, University, and College, as well as their MeSH equivalents, using “AND” and “OR” operators. The results of the articles about investigating factors affecting the evaluation of teachers’ medical universities from the perspective of students were reviewed, summarized, and reported. Results In the initial search, 3949 articles were found, and after evaluation, finally 21 articles were included in the systematic review. Based on the findings, investigating factors affecting the evaluation of teachers’ medical universities from the perspective of 130,187 students can be categorized into 6 dimensions and 53 components. These dimensions include individual and professional characteristics of the educational system, attitude within the educational system, educational programs and guides, teaching methodology, internal coherence of educational resources, and evaluation system information. Conclusion The results of the articles about investigating factors affecting the evaluation of teachers’ medical universities from the perspective of students were reviewed, summarized, and reported. It is necessary to pay attention to the factors affecting the evaluation of teachers in the recruitment of faculty members. Additionally, by holding practical training workshops with consideration of various dimensions that have an impact on faculty evaluation and student learning, it is possible to enhance the expertise of faculty members.

Abstract Cancer remains a significant global public health concern, with increasing incidence and mortality rates worldwide. Oxidative stress, characterized by the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) within cells, plays a critical role in the development of cancer by affecting genomic stability and signaling pathways within the cellular microenvironment. Elevated levels of ROS disrupt cellular homeostasis and contribute to the loss of normal cellular functions, which are associated with the initiation and progression of various types of cancer. In this review, we have focused on elucidating the downstream signaling pathways that are influenced by oxidative stress and contribute to carcinogenesis. These pathways include p53, Keap1-NRF2, RB1, p21, APC, tumor suppressor genes, and cell type transitions. Dysregulation of these pathways can lead to uncontrolled cell growth, impaired DNA repair mechanisms, and evasion of cell death, all of which are hallmark features of cancer development. Therapeutic strategies aimed at targeting oxidative stress have emerged as a critical area of investigation for molecular biologists. The objective is to limit the response time of various types of cancer, including liver, breast, prostate, ovarian, and lung cancers. By modulating the redox balance and restoring cellular homeostasis, it may be possible to mitigate the damaging effects of oxidative stress and enhance the efficacy of cancer treatments. The development of targeted therapies and interventions that specifically address the impact of oxidative stress on cancer initiation and progression holds great promise in improving patient outcomes. These approaches may include antioxidant-based treatments, redox-modulating agents, and interventions that restore normal cellular function and signaling pathways affected by oxidative stress. In summary, understanding the role of oxidative stress in carcinogenesis and targeting this process through therapeutic interventions are of utmost importance in combating various types of cancer. Further research is needed to unravel the complex mechanisms underlying oxidative stress-related pathways and to develop effective strategies that can be translated into clinical applications for the management and treatment of cancer. Video Abstract

Abstract Cancer is a disease that can cause abnormal cell growth and can spread throughout the body. It is among the most significant causes of death worldwide, resulting in approx. 10 million deaths annually. Many synthetic anticancer drugs are available, but they often come with side effects and can interact negatively with other medications. Additionally, many chemotherapy drugs used for cancer treatment can develop resistance and harm normal cells, leading to dose-limiting side effects. As a result, finding effective cancer treatments and developing new drugs remains a significant challenge. However, plants are a potent source of natural products with the potential for cancer treatment. These biologically active compounds may be the basis for enhanced or less toxic derivatives. Herbal medicines/phytomedicines, or plant-based drugs, are becoming more popular in treating complicated diseases like cancer due to their effectiveness and are a particularly attractive option due to their affordability, availability, and lack of serious side effects. They have broad applicability and therapeutic efficacy, which has spurred scientific research into their potential as anticancer agents. This review focuses on Paclitaxel (PTX), a plant-based drug derived from Taxus sp., and its ability to treat specific tumors. PTX and its derivatives are effective against various cancer cell lines. Researchers can use this detailed information to develop effective and affordable treatments for cancer.

Abstract Various drugs have been used for the treatment of leishmaniasis, but they often have adverse effects on the body's organs. In this study, we aimed to explore the effects of one type of drug, Miltefosine (MIL), and its analogue or modifier, liposomal Miltefosine (NMIL), on several fetal organs using both in silico analysis and practical tests on chicken embryos. Our in silico approach involved predicting the affinities of MIL and NMIL to critical proteins involved in leishmaniasis, including Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A (VEGF-A), the Kinase insert domain receptor (KDR1), and apoptotic-regulator proteins (Bcl-2-associate). We then validated and supported these predictions through in vivo investigations, analyzing gene expression and pathological changes in angiogenesis and apoptotic mediators in MIL- and NMIL-treated chicken embryos. The results showed that NMIL had a more effective action towards VEGF-A and KDR1 in leishmaniasis, making it a better candidate for potential operative treatment during pregnancy than MIL alone. In vivo, studies also showed that chicken embryos under MIL treatment displayed less vascular mass and more degenerative and apoptotic changes than those treated with NMIL. These results suggest that NMIL could be a better treatment option for leishmaniasis during pregnancy.

Abstract Background Aloe Vera has a strong analgesic and anti-inflammatory effect, and its use effectively controls pain. This study aimed to determine the effect of Aloe Vera gel versus saline on pain relief of pressure ulcers. Methods This study is a double-blind, randomized clinical trial conducted in Valiasr Hospital in Arak, Markazi Province, in the center of Iran from May 2020 to April 2022. Using the available sampling method, 95 patients with pressure ulcers were assessed for eligibility, 64 patients were selected, 33 patients were placed in the experimental and 34 patients in control. For the experimental group, the ulcers were first cleaned with normal saline to remove the slough and then the already prepared Aloe Vera gel was evenly applied. For control groups, the ulcers were first washed with normal saline to remove off the slough and then covered with a sterile cotton gage, and the wound was tightly bandaged with a cotton roll to keep the “daily dressing” in place. A visual pain scale was used to assess the patient’s pain level. Data analysis was done using SPSS 17. Descriptive statistics, ANOVA, and greenhouse tests were used. The significance level was 0.05. Results The results showed that the average pain score in both groups had a downward trend; that is, both dressings effectively reduced pressure ulcer pain (P

Abstract The ultrasound-assisted preparation of UiO-66 was carried out at T = 80–220 °C, and the catalytic performances were evaluated in methanol conversion. Also, physicochemical properties were assessed by XRD, SEM, PSD, FTIR, N2 adsorption–desorption, TG-DTG, and NH3-TPD analysis. The characterization proved that increasing the synthesis temperature positively affected the crystallinity, specific surface area, thermal stability, and acidity of the catalysts. Besides, the catalysts' performance was investigated in the methanol conversion reaction (T = 350–450 °C, P = 1 atm, and WHSV = 5 h−1), leading to the DME (Dimethyl Ether) production. Rising reaction temperature increased the methanol conversion and DME yield. The synthesized sample at 220 °C had the best properties and performance with conversion and yield of about 38% and 51%, respectively. The stability test for the UiO-66-220 (University of Oslo 66) catalyst was performed at 450 °C for 12 h, and the activity remained stable for about 5 h. Furthermore, the used catalyst was characterized via XRD and TG analysis.

Currently, no safe vaccine against leishmaniasis is available. So far, different control strategies against numerous reservoir hosts and biological vectors have not been environment-friendly and feasible. Hence, employing medicinal components and conventional drugs could be a promising approach to developing novel therapeutic alternatives. This study aimed to explore diallyl sulfide (DAS), a dynamic constituent of garlic, alone and in a mixture with meglumine antimoniate (MAT as standard drug) using in vitro and animal model experiments against Leishmania major stages. The binding affinity of DAS and four major defense elements of the immune system (iNOS, IFN-ɣ, IL-12, and TNF-α) was used to predict the predominant binding mode for molecular docking configurations. Herein, we conducted a broad range of experiments to monitor and assess DAS and MAT potential treatment outcomes. DAS, combined with MAT, displayed no cytotoxicity and employed a powerful anti-leishmanial activity, notably against the clinical stage. The function mechanism involved immunomodulation through the induction of Th1 cytokine phenotypes, triggering a high apoptotic profile, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and antioxidant enzymes. This combination significantly decreased cutaneous lesion diameter and parasite load in BALB/c mice. The histopathological findings performed the infiltration of inflammatory cells associated with T-lymphocytes, particularly CD4+ phenotypes, as determined by biochemical markers in alleviating the amastigote stage and improving the pathological changes in L. major infected BALB/c mice. Therefore, DAS and MAT deserve further advanced therapeutic development and should be considered as possible candidates for treating volunteer cases with cutaneous leishmaniasis in designing an upcoming clinical trial.