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Objective: Asthma, a chronic inflammatory disease with diverse pathomechanisms, presents challenges in developing personalized diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the role of exosomes, small extracellular vesicles, in asthma pathophysiology and explores their potential as diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic tools. Methods: A literature search was conducted to identify recent studies investigating the involvement of exosomes in asthma. The retrieved articles were analyzed to extract relevant information on the role of exosomes in maintaining lung microenvironment homeostasis, regulating inflammatory responses, and their diagnostic and therapeutic potential for asthma. Results: Exosomes secreted by various cell types, have emerged as crucial mediators of intercellular communication in healthy and diseased conditions. Evidence suggest that exosomes play a significant role in maintaining lung microenvironment homeostasis and contribute to asthma pathogenesis by regulating inflammatory responses. Differential exosomal content between healthy individuals and asthmatics holds promise for the development of novel asthma biomarkers. Furthermore, exosomes secreted by immune and nonimmune cells, as well as those detected in biofluids, demonstrate potential in promoting or regulating immune responses, making them attractive candidates for designing new treatment strategies for inflammatory conditions such as asthma. Conclusion: Exosomes, with their ability to modulate immune responses and deliver therapeutic cargo, offer potential as targeted therapeutic tools in asthma management. Further research and clinical trials are required to fully understand the mechanisms underlying exosome‐mediated effects and translate these findings into effective diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for asthma patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Key Clinical Message: The incidence of undescended testicles torsion in a 7‐year‐old is rare, making it a clinically unusual occurrence. Emphasizing the importance of thorough urogenital assessments in children, particularly in underserved communities, is critical to prevent serious complications like testicular gangrene. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article studies the motion of a three degrees-of-freedom (DOF) dynamical system, which consists of two parts, a dynamic part, and an electromagnetic harvesting device. The composition of the system depends on the magnet oscillating in the coil of this device. An electric potential is exerted because of the electromotive force to obtain energy harvesting (EH). Lagrange's equations (LE) are used to derive the system's equations of motion (EOM), which are solved analytically up to a third-order of approximation using the multiple-scales method (MSM). These solutions are considered novel, in which the mentioned method is applied to a novel dynamical system. The gained are confirmed through comparison with the numerical solutions of the EOM to reveal a high degree of consistency. To establish the system's solvable conditions and modulation equations (ME), three scenarios of primary external resonance are investigated simultaneously. Certain diagrams of time histories for the amplitudes and phases of the examined dynamical system are plotted to show their behaviors at any given instance of time. The Routh–Hurwitz criteria (RHC) are used to establish the stability and instability regions in light of the graphs of resonance response curves. The presence of an energy harvester in dynamic devices helps us to convert vibrational motion into electrical energy that can be exploited in several applications in a variety of daily tasks, including structural and environmental monitoring, military applications, space exploration, and remote medical sensing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To improve nonparametric estimates of lifetime distributions, we propose using the increasing odds rate (IOR) model as an alternative to other popular, but more restrictive, 'adverse ageing' models, such as the increasing hazard rate one. This extends the scope of applicability of some methods for statistical inference under order restrictions, since the IOR model is compatible with heavy-tailed and bathtub distributions. We study a strongly uniformly consistent estimator of the cumulative distribution function of interest under the IOR constraint. Numerical evidence shows that this estimator often outperforms the classic empirical distribution function when the underlying model does belong to the IOR family. We also study two different tests to detect deviations from the IOR property and establish their consistency. The performance of these tests is also evaluated through simulations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Acute gastrointestinal bleeding (AGIB) is common in older patients but the use of iron in this context remains understudied. Aims This study aimed to evaluate prospectively the efficacy of ferric carboxymaltose to treat anaemia in older patients after AGIB. Methods This randomised double-blinded placebo-controlled clinical trial was conducted in 10 French centres. Eligible patients were 65 years or more, had controlled upper or lower gastrointestinal bleeding and a haemoglobin level of 9–11 g/dl. Patients were randomly assigned, in a 1:1 ratio, to receive either one intravenous iron injection of ferric carboxymaltose or one injection of saline solution. The primary endpoint was the difference in haemoglobin level between day 0 and day 42. Secondary endpoints were treatment-emergent adverse events, serious adverse events, rehospitalisation and improvement of quality of life (QOL) at day 180. Results From January 2013 to January 2017, 59 patients were included. The median age of patients was 81.9 [75.8, 87.3] years. At day 42, a significant difference in haemoglobin level increase was observed (2.49 g/dl in the ferric carboxymaltose group vs. 1.56 g/dl in the placebo group, P  = 0.02). At day 180, QOL, measured on European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire-Core 30, improved by 10.5 points in the ferric carboxymaltose group and by 8.2 points in the placebo group (P  = 0.56). Rates of adverse events and rehospitalisation were similar in the two groups. Conclusions Intravenous iron seems safe and effective to treat anaemia in older patients after AGIB and should be considered as a standard-of-care treatment. ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT01690585). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A total of 1,387 individuals of the roach Rutilus rutilus, ranging from 10 to 30 cm TL (9 to 428 g), were sampled between April 2013 and March 2017 in Ghrib dam in Algeria where the species was accidentally introduced. The number of preys identified in fish stomachs examined is 947. The mean digestive vacuity coefficient (CV) is 56.9%, with a low value in autumn (CV = 33%) compared to spring (CV = 80%). The diet consists mainly of crustaceans (Cladocera, Copepoda) with a main food index (MFI) of 70. Females live up to 5 years and males to 4 years. Their linear growth is described respectively by the following models of Von Bertalanffy: LT = 32.2 (1 – e0.36(t + 0.07)) and LT = 28.2 (1 – e0.41(t + 0.04)). Females grow larger than males, both having a majorant allometric coefficient of the length-weight relationship (3.36 in males, 3.42 in females). Their growth performance index is equal to 2.5 regardless of sex. This index ranks the growth of the population of the Ghrib dam among the best performing R. rutilus population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biological soil improvement techniques, such as enzyme-induced calcium precipitation (EICP), have attracted increasing attention as a sustainable and durable solution for ground improvement. However, recent life-cycle environmental assessment studies of EICP ground improvement have shown that enzyme stabilizers such as nonfat milk powder have a significant environmental impact. Hence, this study explores the potential of using sustainable biopolymer [sodium alginate (SA)] as a modifier in EICP cementing solution. The interaction effect between different EICP cementing solution constituents (calcium chloride, urease enzyme, urea, and SA) on the performance of sand-treated specimens is investigated. Response surface methodology (RSM), a design of experiments (DOE) approach, is utilized to design the testing program. In addition, RSM is adopted to model the effect of different constituents on the performance of EICP-treated soils. An optimal mix is suggested for the EICP-SA modified cementing solution with a maximum unconfined compressive strength of 1,762 kPa, compared with 460 kPa of the EICP-milk treated specimens. Moreover, the practical considerations of the SA-modified EICP solution are investigated through scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive spectrometry, and water retention. Notably, the study demonstrated that SA-modified EICP specimens have superior water retention characteristics compared with regular EICP-treated soils due to the inclusion of SA in the EICP solution. Additionally, a set of durability tests revealed the promising performance of the SA-modified EICP-treated specimens under wetting–drying cycles, with results complying with ASTM standards. These findings suggest that the SA-modified EICP approach offers a potent and environmentally friendly alternative for soil stabilization and improvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: Falls are one of the most common adverse events at hospitals that may result in injury and even death. They are also associated with raised length of stay (LOS) and hospitalization costs. This experiment aimed to examine the effectiveness of multiple interventions in reducing inpatient fall rates and the consequent injuries. Methods: The present study was a stepped-wedge cluster-randomized controlled trial. It was done in 18 units in a public university hospital over 36 weeks. Patients included in this research were at risk of falls. Overall, 33 856 patients were admitted, of whom 4766 were considered high-risk patients. During the intervention phases, a series of preventive and control measures were considered, namely staff training; patient education; placement of nursing call bells; adequate lighting; supervision of high-risk patients during transmission and handovers; mobility device allocation; placement of call bell and safe guard in bathrooms; placing "fall alert" signs above patients' beds; nurses informing physicians timely about complications such as delirium and hypoxia; encouraging appropriate use of eyeglasses, hearing aids and footwear; keeping side rails up; and reassessing patients after each fall. The primary outcome was participant falls per 1000 patient-days. Secondary outcomes were fall-related injuries and LOS. Results: The results revealed a decrease in fall rate (n = 4 per 1000 patient-days vs 1.34 per 1000 patient-days, incidence rate ratio (IRR) = 0.19 [95% confidence interval (CI), 0.14-0.26]; P= .001) and injuries (n = 2.4 per 1000 patient-days vs 0.79 per 1000 patient-days, IRR = 0.22 [95% CI, 0.15-0.32]; P= .001) in exposed compared with unexposed phases. There was not a significant difference in LOS (exposed mean 10.63 days [95% CI, 10.26-10.97], unexposed mean 10.84 days [95% CI, 10.59-11.09], mean difference = -0.13 [95% CI, -0.53 to 0.27], P= .52). Conclusions: This multi-interventional trial showed a reduction in falls and fall rates with injury but without an overall effect on LOS. Further research is needed to understand the sustainability of multiple fall prevention strategies in hospitals and their long-term impacts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) of IVF embryos have gained much traction in clinical assisted reproduction for preventing various genetic defects, including Down syndrome. However, such genetic tests inevitably reveal the sex of IVF embryos by identifying the sex (X and Y) chromosomes. In many countries with less stringent IVF regulations, information on the sex of embryos that are tested to be genetically normal is readily shared with patients. This would thus present Muslim patients with unintended opportunities for sex selection based on personal or social biases without any pressing need or valid medical reason. Additionally, there are other patients who claim using PGT for preventing genetic defects as a pretext or "convenient excuse," with a secret intention to do sex selection when it is banned in their home country. Currently, non-medical sex selection is a highly-controversial and hotly debated issue in Islam, because there is generally a strong preference for having sons over daughters due to widespread cultural norms of elderly parents depending on their sons for financial support, as well as the need for male heirs to continue the family lineage within the backdrop of local patriarchal cultures. There is a risk of gender imbalance and social disequilibrium occurring in Islamic societies due to prevalent sex selection. Hence, the question is whether opportunistic sex selection with PGT would contravene Islamic ethics and principles, which will thus be discussed here. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive (SMAP) was originally designed to combine high-resolution active (radar) and coarse-resolution but highly sensitive passive (radiometer) L-band observations to achieve unprecedented spatial resolution and accuracy for soil moisture retrievals. However, shortly after SMAP was put into orbit, the radar component failed, and the high-resolution capability was lost. In this paper, the integration of an alternative radar sensor with the SMAP radiometer is proposed to enhance soil moisture retrieval capabilities over vegetated areas in the absence of the original high-resolution radar in the SMAP mission. ESA's Sentinel-1A C-band radar was used in this study to enhance the spatial resolution of the SMAP L-band radiometer and to improve soil moisture retrieval accuracy. To achieve this purpose, we downscaled the 9 km radiometer data of the SMAP to 1 km utilizing the Smoothing Filter-based Intensity Modulation (SFIM) method. An Artificial Neural Network (ANN) was then trained to exploit the synergy between the Sentinel-1A radar, SMAP radiometer, and the in situ-measured soil moisture. An analysis of the data obtained for a plant growing season over the Mississippi Delta showed that the VH-polarized Sentinel-1A radar data can yield a coefficient of correlation of 0.81 and serve as a complimentary source to the SMAP radiometer for more accurate and enhanced soil moisture prediction over agricultural fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Mentorship involves a voluntary, collaborative, and non-hierarchical relationship where an experienced individual shares knowledge with a less-experienced individual. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of a mentorship program on anxiety levels and pre-internship exam scores among senior nursing students. Methods: This quasi-experimental research was conducted on 37 nursing students in the sixth semester of the School of Medical Sciences in Saveh in the year 2023. Participants were selected based on initial criteria using a census method and were then randomly assigned to two groups: the control group (19 participants) and the intervention group (17 participants). The mentoring program for the intervention group was implemented one month before the pre-internship exam and consisted of six sessions, each lasting two hours, over two weeks (three sessions per week). Data collection tools included a demographic questionnaire, the Sarason Anxiety Questionnaire, and pre-internship exam scores. SPSS software version 23 was utilized for data analysis. Results: The mean anxiety exam scores in the two control and intervention groups did not exhibit a statistically significant difference before the intervention (P = 0.34). However, the mean anxiety exam score of the intervention group students after the intervention (5.89 ± 15.11) was significantly lower than that of the control group students (7.04 ± 21.42) (P = 0.007). Additionally, the results showed that the mean anxiety exam scores of the intervention group students before (5.77 ± 17.53) and after the intervention (5.89 ± 15.11) had a statistically significant difference (P = 0.013). Furthermore, the mean pre-internship exam scores of the intervention group students (1.71 ± 17.72) were significantly higher than those of the control group students (1.15 ± 16.46) (P = 0.014). Conclusion: The mentorship program resulted in a reduction of exam anxiety in nursing students and improved their performance in the pre-internship exam to the extent that the exam scores of the participating students were higher than those of other students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Severe alcohol-associated hepatitis (sAH) is a life-threatening condition with limited treatment options. Corticosteroids are currently recommended as the first-line therapy, but their effectiveness is controversial. Liver transplantation is an option for non-responders, but it is not widely available. A recent study published in the American Journal of Drug and Alcohol Abuse suggests that the use of granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) in combination with pentoxifylline or corticosteroids may be associated with lower mortality rates in sAH. However, conflicting evidence and the need for larger trials indicate that further research is necessary to determine the potential benefits and risks of G-CSF in sAH treatment. In the meantime, supportive therapies, prevention of complications, and alcohol abstinence remain crucial in managing sAH. Public health policies to reduce alcohol use and detect alcohol-related health issues early could also help prevent sAH mortality. [Extracted from the article]

Kingship verification is a process that two or more people has a family relation such as father and son or other family relation. Numerous studies have been presented to investigate the relationship between people. Kingship verification can be done based on image of face. Most of the methods presented on face images work well on face data sets recorded under controlled conditions. However, due to the complex nature of environments, rapidly and accurately examining human kinship in real-world unrestricted or wild-type scenarios is still a challenging research. In this paper, in order to overcome the aforementioned challenges, an efficient and new method is presented. In the proposed method, a method is used to launch the operation to create a map. The created feature map is stable against deformation, transition, scaling, direction and Dilation in wild images. Group-Face and TSK in Face databases are used for simulation. In order to evaluate the evaluation of the proposed method, average recall of 94.1, precision 94.6, accuracy 94.7, specificity 93.8, and finally F_Measure 95.0 were used. The superiority of the proposed method in all comparisons shows the effectiveness of the proposed method in diagnosing kinship. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Social jetlag, the weekly variation in sleep timing, is proposed to contribute to increased obesity risk, potentially because of the misalignment of behavioral cycles relative to the endogenous circadian timing system. This systematic review and meta‐analysis aim to determine the association between social jetlag and adiposity‐related measures using observational studies. We reviewed 477 references, of which 43 studies met inclusion criteria with a total sample size of 231,648. There was a positive association between social jetlag and body mass index (correlation coefficient [r]: 0.12; 95%CI, 0.07, 0.17; P < 0.001; I2 = 94.99%), fat mass (r: 0.10; 95%CI, 0.05, 0.15; P < 0.001; I2 = 0.00%), fat mass index (fat mass divided by height in meter squared, β: 0.14 kg/m2; 95%CI, 0.05, 0.23; P < 0.001; I2 = 56.50%), percent of body fat (r: 0.37; 95%CI, 0.33, 0.41; P < 0.001; I2 = 96.17%), waist circumference (r: 0.15; 95%CI, 0.06, 0.24; P = 0.001; I2 = 90.83%), and the risk of having overweight/obesity (odds ratio: 1.20; 95%CI, 1.02, 1.140; P = 0.039; I2 = 98.25%). Social jetlag is positively and consistently associated with multiple obesity‐related anthropometric measures. Further studies are needed to test causality, underlying mechanisms, and whether obesity interventions based on increasing regularity of the sleep/wake cycle can aid in the battle against the obesity pandemic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractThe Rowland Universal Dementia Assessment Scale (RUDAS) is a cognitive assessment suitable for diverse populations. However, the test-retest reliability and internal consistency of the Arabic version of RUDAS were not examined. This study aimed to examine these aspects. The Arabic RUDAS was administered twice to a sample of 37 older adults. The intraclass correlation coefficients and the Kappa coefficient examined the test-retest reliability. The internal consistency of the Arabic RUDAS was assessed using Cronbach’s alpha. The RUDAS showed high internal consistency (α = 0.866) and test-retest reliability (ICC = 0.971), with substantial agreement between tests (Kappa = 0.78). The Arabic RUDAS is highly reliable with Palestinian older adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the last decade, an immuno-modulatory effect of vitamin D supplementation have emerged as a potential therapeutic approach for some inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. As previously reported, vitamin D deficiency was strongly linked to several diseases as Behçet's disease (BD). BD is a chronic systemic inflammatory disorder with autoimmunity, genetic and environmental factors involvement. The aim of our current study is to set up a new therapeutic strategy in BD, combining conventional therapy and vitamin D supplementation. Blood samples were collected from active and inactive BD patients and healthy controls (HC) to evaluate 25(OH) vitamin D levels using an electrochemiluminescence method. All deficient and insufficient vitamin D BD patients' were supplemented with vitamin D3 (CHOLECALCIFEROL, 200 000 UI/1 ml). In this context, NO, IL-17A and IL-10 levels were evaluated in patients and HC in vivo and ex vivo using Griess and ELISA methods respectively. Before supplementation, we noted with interest that BD patients had vitamin D deficiency, associated with elevated in vivo and ex vivo NO and IL-17A levels compared to HC. Conversely, low IL-10 levels were observed in the same BD patients in comparison to HC. Interestingly, restored vitamin D status in supplemented BD patients was related to the decreased NO levels. In the same way, the IL-10/IL-17A ratio was improved. Collectively, our data suggest that vitamin D supplementation in combination with conventional treatments has a beneficial effect and could constitute a good therapeutic candidate for alleviating inflammatory responses during Behçet disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article explores the relationship between alcohol consumption and liver disease, particularly focusing on nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and compensated advanced chronic liver disease (cACLD). It highlights the debate surrounding the inclusion of alcohol consumption in the definition of NAFLD and presents evidence suggesting that some patients with NAFLD actually consume alcohol, putting them at risk of alcohol-related liver damage. The article emphasizes the importance of accurately assessing alcohol consumption in patients with steatotic liver disease and educating them to avoid alcohol intake. It also emphasizes that patients with cACLD should avoid alcohol consumption as it promotes the progression of fibrosis and has a significant impact on mortality. The document concludes by recommending the standardization of follow-up criteria for patients with alcohol-related liver disease and the need for a global consensus on alcohol-related risks. [Extracted from the article]

Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-engineered natural killer (NK) cells have recently emerged as a promising and safe alternative to CAR-T cells for targeting solid tumors. In the case of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), traditional cancer treatments and common immunotherapies have shown limited effectiveness. However, CAR-NK cells have been successfully employed to target epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) on TNBC cells, thereby enhancing the efficacy of immunotherapy. The effectiveness of CAR-NK-based immunotherapy is influenced by various factors, including the vaccination dose, vaccination pattern, and tumor immunosuppressive factors in the microenvironment. To gain insights into the dynamics and effects of CAR-NK-based immunotherapy, we propose a computational model based on experimental data and immunological theories. This model integrates an individual-based model that describes the interplay between the tumor and the immune system, along with an ordinary differential equation model that captures the variation of inflammatory cytokines. Computational results obtained from the proposed model shed light on the conditions necessary for initiating an effective anti-tumor response. Furthermore, global sensitivity analysis highlights the issue of low persistence of CAR-NK cells in vivo, which poses a significant challenge for the successful clinical application of these cells. Leveraging the model, we identify the optimal vaccination time, vaccination dose, and time interval between injections for maximizing therapeutic outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, it is proposed that a two-terminal high voltage direct current (HVDC) be integrated into the power system. Line-commutated converter (LCC)-HVDC is used because of its ability to reduce line losses, which improves overall system efficiency. Shunt capacitors also aid in voltage maintenance by compensating for the reactive power demand. In essence, limiting voltage drops in electrical networks promotes a more efficient power transmission and distribution by lowering resistive losses. In power system investigations, it was discovered that the HVDC link and SCB exist separately. So, for the first time, the backtracking search algorithm (BSA) is used to solve the optimal reactive power flow (ORPF) of a power system with a HVDC link and shunt capacitor banks (SCB). Although BSA simulations on a modified IEEE 30 bus yielded successful results, ABC was also utilized for comparing the outcomes of different methods. Overall, three separate cases of the modified IEEE 30 bus system were examined. When the acquired results are compared to other methods, the suggested algorithm is found to be better at concerning effectiveness as well as performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A model DC material based on ethylene propylene rubber (EPR) including the pure EPR and the EPR-based nanodielectrics incorporated with two different nanoclays, Kaoline and Talc, under operational conditions was investigated. The operational conditions include a 20 kV/mm electric field at 25 °C, a 20 kV/mm electric field at 50 °C with a thermal gradient, and a 40 kV/mm electric field at 50 °C with a thermal gradient and polarity reversal. Space charge distribution, surface potential, and electrical conductivity were measured to characterize the model DC material and interpret the discrete charge dynamics in the bulk and at the interface of the three samples. The experimental results revealed that the electrical conductivity of Talc-filled nanodielectric has the least dependency on electric field and temperature, which reduces the conductivity gradient across the dielectric. Moreover, the successful suppression of space charge and the lower dielectric time constant in the Talc-filled nanodielectric result in a tuning electric field in the bulk not only under normal operating conditions but also more importantly under polarity reversal conditions. The maximum of absolute charge density decreases from 10.6 C/m3 for EPR to 2.9 C/m3 for the Talc-filled nanodielectric under 40 kV/mm with polarity reversal and at 50 °C with the thermal gradient. The maximum of local electric field enhancement for the mentioned condition reduces significantly from 97 kV/mm, 142% enhancement, for EPR to 45 kV/mm, only 12.5% enhancement, for the Talc-filled nanodielectric. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study reports the synthesis of gallic acid–capped gold nanoparticles (GA-AuNPs) through a simple, inexpensive, and environmentally friendly chemical method and their applications in fuel cells. In the proposed method, gallic acid acts as the reducing agent and stabilizer. The studies showed that the size and distribution of AuNPs could be controlled by controlling the molar ratio of gallic acid to gold ions. The prepared GA-AuNPs were used as an electro-catalyst to oxidize ethylene glycol (EG) molecules on the glassy carbon electrode (GCE) surface in alkaline media. The results showed that the modified electrode using GA-AuNPs with a 1:1 M ratio has a higher electrochemical active surface area (ECSA); therefore, it has improved electro-catalytic activity, increased stability, and durability for EG oxidation compared to other ratios of GA/Au and even to the bare Au electrode. [Display omitted] • Facile and green method was applied to prepare GA-AuNPs. • Catalytical activity of GA-AuNPs was 2.5 times larger than that of commercial Au electrode. • GA-AuNPs show 92% stability After one month for EG oxidation. • GA-AuNPs (1:1) having narrow size-distribution obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Computed tomography (CT) scan is a common imaging technique used to evaluate the severity of a head injury. The overuse of diagnostic interventions in the health system is a growing concern worldwide. Objectives: The aim of this systematic review is to investigate the rate of CT scan overuse in cases of mild head injury. Methods: Eligibility criteria: We encompassed observational studies—either designed as cohort, case-control, or cross-sectional investigations—that reported on CT scan overuse rates for mild head injuries. Studies had to be published in peer-reviewed, English-language sources and provide full content access Information sources: Web of Sciences, Scopus, Medline via PubMed, the Cochrane Library and Embase were searched from inception until April 1, 2023. Studies were included if reporting the overuse of CT scans for mild head injuries using validated criteria. Risk of bias: We used the Risk Of Bias In Non-randomised Studies ‐ of Interventions (ROBINS-I) tool to evaluate the risk bias assessment of included studies. Two independent reviewers evaluated the eligibility of studies, extracted data, and assessed study quality by using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Synthesis of results: Overuse estimates were calculated using a random-effects model. Subgroup analyses were performed to investigate any sources of heterogeneity. Point rate of overuse of CT scans for mild head injuries was the main outcome measured as percentage point estimates with corresponding 95% CIs. Results: Included studies: Of the 913 potentially relevant studies identified, eight studies were selected for the final analysis. Synthesis of results: The pooled rate of CT scan overuse in patients with mild head injury was found to be 27% [95% CI: 16–43; I2 = 99%]. The rate of CT scan overuse in mild head injury cases varied depending on the criteria used. The rate of CT scan overuse was 37% [95% CI: 32–42; I2 = 0%] with the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS), 30% [95% CI: 16–49; I2 = 99%] with the Canadian computed tomography head rule, and 10% [95% CI: 8–14; I2 = 0%] with the Pediatric Emergency Care Applied Research Network criterion (PERCAN). Based on subgroup analyses, the rate of CT scan overuse in mild head injury cases was observed to be 30% with the Canadian computed tomography head rule criterion, 43% with the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence criterion, and 18% with the New Orleans criterion. Conclusion: Limitations of evidence: The restricted number of included studies may impact generalizability. High heterogeneity was observed, leading to subgroup analyses based on age, assessment criteria, and study region. Absent data on overuse causes hinders drawing conclusions on contributing factors. Furthermore, this study solely addressed overuse rates, not associated harm or benefits. Interpretation: The overuse of CT scans in mild head injury patients is concerning, as it can result in unnecessary radiation exposure and higher healthcare costs. Clinicians and policymakers should prioritize the implementation of guidelines to reduce unnecessary radiation exposure, healthcare costs, and potential harm to patients. Trial registration: The study protocol of this review was registered in PROSPERO under the identification code CRD42023416080. https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42023416080. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, Modular Multilevel Converters (MMC) are considered to be extensively used in medium‐voltage AC drives A two‐stage deadbeat‐based strategy is developed by the authors to make the implementation of Predictive Torque Control (PTC) technique for an induction motor that is fed by a three‐phase MMC possible. Despite various benefits of PTC strategy, it has not been widely employed for multilevel topologies due to the huge number of switching states of these converters, and the complex internal dynamics of topologies such as MMC. The proposed control scheme results in significant reduction of the computational burden, using an initial reference voltage that is determined at the first stage of the strategy by the deadbeat technique. Next, the predictive evaluation process is conducted at the second stage to simultaneously control the stator flux, electromagnetic torque and circulating current. The number of admissible vectors that should be evaluated in the cost function is effectively limited by only considering some adjacent vectors of the reference voltage in the first stage. Moreover, the circulating current control capability, which is necessary for effective operation of MMC, is also considered in the developed scheme. Finally, the satisfactory performance of the proposed strategy is validated through various experimental tests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Hepatic ischemic post-conditioning (IPOC) is shown to protect the liver from injury induced by ischemia/reperfusion (IR). However, the mechanism underlying this protection has remained elusive. The present study aimed to investigate the role of the interleukin 6-Janus kinase-signal transducers and activators of transcription (IL-6-JAK-STAT) pathway in the protective effect of hepatic IPOC against the IR-induced injury in the liver. Methods: Twenty-five rats were randomly divided into 5 groups of (1) sham-operated, (2) IR, (3) IR+hepatic IPOC, (4) IR+tofacitinib (TOFA), and (5) IR+TOFA+hepatic IPOC. The changes induced by IR and the effects of different treatments were assessed by enzyme release, histopathological observations, the serum level of IL-6, and the occurrence of apoptosis detected via the expression of the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio. Results: The hepatic IPOC improved the liver injury induced by IR as shown by histological changes, reduction of IL-6 level, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) compared to the IR group (P <0.001,> P <0.05,> P P<0.05).> Conclusion: It suggests that the protective effect of hepatic IPOC against IR-induced injury may be mediated by activating the IL-6-JAK-STAT pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To assess the burden of white matter (WM) damage in the cerebrum and cerebellum of spinocerebellar ataxia type 2 (SCA2) patients in an attempt to identify key regions affected by the neurodegenerative processes using diffusion tensor imaging (DTI). Nine SCA2 patients and 16 age-matched healthy controls were examined twice (SCA2 patients 3.6 ± 0.7 years and controls 3.3 ± 1.0 years apart) on the same 1.5 T scanner by acquiring T1-weighted and diffusion-weighted (b-value = 1,000 s/mm2) images. Using tract-based spatial statistics, DTI analysis on fractional anisotropy (FA), mean diffusivity (MD), axial (AD)/radial (RD) diffusivity was performed. At baseline magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), FA was significantly decreased in SCA2 patients in the corticospinal tracts, inferior and superior cerebellar peduncles, middle cerebellar peduncles, cerebral peduncles, right superior and posterior corona radiata. RD was only significantly increased in SCA2 patients in the middle cerebellar peduncles. No significant AD and MD changes were observed. Tract-based spatial statistics (TBSS) analysis between SCA2 patients at baseline and at follow-up showed no significant changes in any of the DTI metrics. DTI is a sensitive tool for following the progression of WM neurodegeneration and severity assessment in patients with SCA2. These findings add to a better understanding of the neurological underpinnings of the symptoms experienced by SCA2 patients. • FA decreased and RD increased in WM regions of SCA2 patients. • No significant WM deterioration in the follow-up scan of SCA2 patients was observed. • Cerebellar atrophy is consistent with non-progressive frontal-executive dysfunction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The multilayered CrN/CrAlN film was deposited on the SS420 substrate by cathodic arc evaporation technique. The effect of substrate bias voltage was investigated on the microstructure, surface morphology, and mechanical and electrochemical corrosion properties of the deposited film. The deposited CrN/CrAlN coatings were characterized by X‐ray diffraction and field emission scanning electron microscope techniques. Mechanical properties, corrosion resistance, and surface morphology of the coated samples were studied by nano‐indentation, polarization test, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, and atomic force microscopy, respectively. Adhesive and dense nanostructure CrN and CrAlN phases were successfully deposited on the substrate. The refinement of the coating crystallite was observed from 31.2 to 24.3 nm by increasing the substrate bias voltage, this improved the mechanical properties of the coating. The number of macroparticles, pinholes and porosities, and the surface roughness of coatings significantly decreased by increasing the substrate bias voltage. The CrN/CrAlN coating reduced the corrosion current density in contrast to the SS420 substrate. Better corrosion resistance was obtained for the coating deposited at 150 V of bias voltage due to lower defects in the film structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The Arbaeen march ritual stands as one of the largest congregations, attended by tens of millions every year. Given the large number of participants in this ritual, it is essential to minimize the health repercussions for pilgrims and ensure their prompt access to medical care. The present study was conducted to analyze the healthcare services during the 2019 Arbaeen march. Materials and Methods: Employing a qualitative approach, this study utilized various data collection methods, including in-depth and semi-structured interviews, field observations, and document review. The target population comprised healthcare decision-makers, managers, and providers of the 2019 Arbaeen march. The interview and data collection guide were developed in accordance with the World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines. Data collection continued until data saturation. Directed content analysis was employed to analyze the data. Results: Data saturation was achieved after conducting 30 personal interviews. Out of the challenges and significant factors found in healthcare deliveries during the Imam Hussein (AS) Arbaeen march, 9 main themes and categories were identified: Trauma system, disease surveillance system, health issues, health education and promotion, healthcare coordination and collaboration command in the health system, information and communication management, response planning, support and resource management, and safety and security. Conclusion: This study identified the major healthcare issues in the AS Arbaeen march, serving as an evidence-based guide for policymakers and planners of this famous religious ritual. The results of this study are applicable to similar public gatherings and marches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This investigation aimed to assess the impact of 50, 100, and 200 ppm of neutral electrolyzed water (NEW) on the sensory characteristics, chemical composition, and microbiological quality of fresh chicken breast meat kept for six days at 4±1ºC. The results showed that dipping chicken breast meat samples in NEW at three concentrations (50, 100 and 200 ppm) can improve storage stability and reduce microbial populations compared with the control group. The results on the sixth day of storage revealed that the pH values were 6.41±03, 6.34±02c and 6.32±02d, respectively, and the TBARS values were 0.79±0.02, 0.68±0.05 and 0.50±0.02 respectively. While aerobic plate counts, E. coli, and S. aureus counts were 5.58±0.23, 4.54±0.29, 3.92±0.06; 1.82±0.15, 1.65±0.04, 1.38±0.12 and 1.62±0.07, 1.50±0.01, 1.32±0.02 log CFU/g, respectively, which was lower than the control group in all treatments on day 6. As storage duration extended relative to the control group, dipping chicken breast flesh samples in neutral electrolyzed water, especially at a concentration of NEW200 ppm, obtained the greatest score in sensory characteristics. Over the course of six days of storage, the pH and TBARS values of the meat samples rose in control and all treated groups, but lower values were obtained by treating with 50,100 ppm, while the lowest values were obtained by treating with 200 ppm of NEW. This study found that 200 ppm of NEW is more effective than 50 or 100 ppm. It can be a promising way to increase the shelf life of chicken meat without leaving any hazardous residues and is regarded as a healthy antimicrobial preservative agent for chilled chicken meat kept in a refrigerator. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article contributes to the internationalization of survey methodology by discussing a case from a totalitarian state, the Islamic Republic of Iran. In 2020, GAMAAN (The Group for Measuring and Analyzing Attitudes in Iran) conducted an online survey on religion. The survey had 50,000 participants, around 90 percent of whom lived in Iran. This article discusses the result that, after weighting, 8 percent identified as Zoroastrian—many times the number of Zoroastrians as recorded by scholarship on Iranian Zoroastrianism. We dub this phenomenon "Survey Zoroastrianism" and offer an explanation for this finding. After describing the position of Zoroastrianism in modern Iran and adding two further online surveys conducted by GAMAAN in 2022, we discuss the Survey Zoroastrians' demographics and their religious and political views. The analysis shows that participating in surveys beyond the government's control provided affordances for performing alternative identity aspirations tied to notions of nationalism and civilizational heritage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is the most common subtype of lymphoma. It is a highly heterogeneous lymphoid neoplasm, with variations in gene expression profiles and genetic alterations. MYD88 and TP53 genes are common to be expressed and mutated in DLBCL patients with controversy regarding their role in prognosis and survival. This study aims to determine the predictive and prognostic role of MYD88 and TP53 gene mutation in DLBCL. A prospective cohort study was conducted on 50 patients who were diagnosed with DLBCL and 30 healthy individuals to assess the sensitivity and specificity of MYD88 and TP53 genetic mutations. MYD88 and TP53 gene mutations were more sensitive, specific, and accurate in predicting overall mortality and disease progression in comparison with the international prognostic index. Mutant MYD88 and TP53 showed their prognostic importance for worse objective response rates and survival outcomes. Both mutant MYD88 and TP53 were associated with worse ORR. There was a significant statistical difference for both MYD88 and TP53 with regard to 2-year PFS and 2-year OS rate. Hence, both mutant MYD88 and TP53 can be used in predicting disease progression and overall mortality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Malignant transformation in dermoid cysts is rare, and Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) is the most common form. This event often occurs in large tumors and middle-aged women. Case report: In this study, two cases are presented. They were menopause, and abdominal pain and adnexal mass was a common manifestation in both. Case 1 with adenocarcinoma arising in mature cystic teratoma had abnormal tumor markers and was diagnosed with a frozen section during surgery, but case 2 with SCC transformation had normal tumor markers, and the frozen section was not helpful in the first surgery. Both underwent complete staging surgery, and due to stage IC1 in case 1, she received chemotherapy, and in case 2, no adjuvant treatment was needed because of stage IA. Conclusion: Considering the rarity of malignant transformation in the dermoid cyst, the best surgical approach and adjuvant therapy indications need further research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three-dimensional protein structures are invaluable sources of information for the functional annotation of protein molecules. Describing the function of a protein sequence is one of the most common problems in biology. Generally, this problem can be facilitated by studying the tertiary structure of proteins. In the lack of protein structures, comparative modeling often provides a useful three-dimensional model of the protein associated with at least one known protein structure. Comparative modeling predicts the tertiary structure of a certain protein sequence (target) mainly based on its homological sequence to the sequence of one or more proteins with known structures (templates). MODELLER is one of the most widely used tools for homology or comparative modeling of three-dimensional protein structures. However, most users find it challenging to start with MODELLER as it is a command line based and requires knowledge of basic Python scripting to use it efficiently. In this study, a web-based interface has been designed to predict the tertiary structure of proteins based on Modeller, which does the comparative modeling automatically, and uses PHP and Python programming languages. This tool is called "EasyModel" and is available at http://bioinf.modares.ac.ir/software/easymodel/. EasyModel provides a straightforward graphical interface for Modeller that can be used in only one browser. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Khat (Catha edulis) is an evergreen shrub whose buds and leaves give a state of delight and euphoria when chewed. Cathinone, an amphetamine-like stimulant that is among the active ingredients in khat, is able to downregulate glutamate transporter subtype I (GLT-1). Neurobehavioral dysfunctions such as altered locomotor activity, anorexia, and nociception have been observed in animals exposed to cathinone. Interestingly, treatment with a β-lactam antibiotic such as ceftriaxone, which upregulates GLT-1, normalizes cathinone-induced conditioned place preference, and alters repetitive movements in rats. However, little is known about the role of the glutamatergic system in memory dysfunction and anxiety-like behaviors in mice exposed to khat. We found here that clavulanic acid, a β-lactam-containing compound and GLT-1 upregulator, would modulate the neurobehavioral changes, including memory impairment and anxiety-like behaviors, associated with repeated exposure of mice to khat. Our data supported that clavulanic acid could improve memory impairment and anxiety-like behaviors through upregulating GLT-1 in the nucleus accumbens (NAc), an effect abolished with a selective GLT-1 blocker. This upregulation was associated with restored glutamate/cystine antiporter expression in the NAc using a Western blotting assay. Cathine and cathinone were identified in khat extract using the gas chromatography technique. Our work provides preclinical insight into the efficacy of β-lactam-containing compounds for the attenuation of neurobehavioral changes induced by khat exposure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract We regard high degree stop-loss transforms as iterated equilibrium distributions to establish comparison criteria with respect to star-shape and convex transform orders. As an application, we derive monotonicity properties for exceedance probabilities, providing information on how likely these distributions are to be far from the extreme values of their support. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Drug-drug interactions (DDIs) can reduce therapeutic efficacy and increase the duration and cost of hospitalization so that patients are sometimes exposed to significant complications and even death. Patients in the intensive care unit (ICU) are at higher risk of DDIs for a variety of reasons, including impaired absorption, decreased metabolism, and renal failure. The main objective of this study was to evaluate frequency, clinical ranking and risk factors of potential DDIs in the ICUs of 3 teaching hospitals in Ardabil. Methods : In this descriptive-analytical cross-sectional study, drug prescriptions 355 patients admitted to the ICUs were studied. Patient information including age, sex, diagnosis, number of prescribers, number of drugs, length of stay, and status of patients' discharge (recovery or death) were recorded and checked using the online software up to date and the book Drug Interaction Facts. Finally, the data were statistically analyzed using the SPSS software. Results : The number of patients studied was 355. The mean age of the patients were 51.88 ± 23.22 years, and on average, 8.45 drugs had been prescribed for each patient. The total number of DDIs was 1597 among which class X was 1.4%, class D was 26.2%, and class C was 67.7%. Four hundred ninety-seven unique pairs of DDIs were identified. Age, number of prescribed drugs and length of stay in ICU were associated with prevalence of DDIs. Age and number of drugs were also identified as the risk factors of patients' discharge caused by death. Conclusion : DDIs can complicate health state of patients in ICUs and may increase the length of hospital stay. Setting up computerized systems to alert drug interactions in hospital wards and pharmacotherapeutic intervention by clinical pharmacist can minimize DDIs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main objective of the present study is to investigate the influence of friction stir welding (FSW) parameters using a novel tool on the mechanical properties of polypropylene-ethylene-propylene diene monomer/clay (PP/EPDM/Clay) nanocomposite. The response surface method of design of experiments in combination with the desirability function approach is applied to quantify the effects of clay content, tool rotational speed, welding speed, and tool shoulder temperature on tensile strength and elongation of welded joints. It was observed that the tool rotational speed had the maximum effect on the tensile strength, while the greatest influence on the elongation was due to the tool shoulder temperature. The addition of clay nanoparticles up to 6 wt% into the PP matrix reduced the tensile strength and elongation of the weld by about 38% and 20%, respectively. Moreover, an improvement of about 45% was observed in the tensile strength when the rotational speed increased from 800 to 1600 r/min, while the tensile strength deteriorated by about 29% when the linear speed increased from 10 to 20 mm/s. A rise in shoulder temperature from 50 to 100°C was also accompanied by an enhancement in the tensile strength and elongation by 20 and 50%, respectively. Nevertheless, the desired operating conditions were found to be 0.85 wt% for clay, 1390 r/min for the tool rotational speed, 10 mm/min for the welding speed, and 100°C for the tool shoulder temperature. The fracture morphologies obtained by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were in good agreement with corresponding tensile strength and elongation results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Endurance exercise is used as one of the clinical interventions in the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular diseases. Black mulberry leaves (Morus Nigra) containing phenolic compounds that have pharmacological properties are used to lower blood pressure and lower cholesterol. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of black mulberry leaf aqueous extract alone and its combination with physical activity on heart contractility in overweight rats. Method: 35 male Wistar rats were divided into 5 groups with free access to water and food. The control group was fed with normal food and 4 groups were fed with 60% high fat food for 12 weeks to cause hyperlipidemia. Then, endurance training and gavage of black mulberry leaf aqueous extract were performed for 6 weeks, 5 days a week. At the end, using the Power lap electro physiograph system, heart contractility indices, including heart rate (HR), arterial systolic pressure (SP), diastolic pressure (DP), left ventricular systolic pressure (LVSP), left ventricular end-diastolic pressure (LVEDP) The maximum rate of left ventricular pressure increase (+dp/dt max) and the maximum rate of left ventricular pressure decrease (dp/dt max -) were recorded. Findings: The maximum rate of left ventricular pressure increase (dp/dt max +) and the maximum rate of left ventricular pressure decrease (dp/dt max-) in the exercise training group showed a significant increase compared to the normal diet control group and the high-fat diet control group (P< 0.05) and (P<0.001). These indicators showed a significant decrease in the extract consumption group compared to the control group and the exercise group (P<0.001) and (P<0.01). In the extract and exercise group, both indicators showed an increase compared to the extract group, but did not reach the level of the control and normal groups. Left ventricular systolic pressure (LVSP) and left ventricular end-diastolic pressure (LVEDP) showed a significant decrease in the extract group compared to the exercise group (P<0.01). Conclusion: Consumption of black mulberry leaf extract caused heart muscle relaxation and decreased (dp/dt max +) and (dp/dt max -) compared to the control group. Adaptation to sports training and improving cardiac muscle contraction function partially compensated for this decrease and improved the decrease in cardiac function caused by the effect of black mulberry leaf extract. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper focuses on the construction of traveling wave solutions to the nonlinear Klein–Gordon equation by employing the qualitative theory of planar dynamical systems. Based on this theory, we analytically study the existence of periodic, kink (anti-kink), and solitary wave solutions. We then attempt to construct such solutions. For this purpose, we apply a well-known traveling wave solution to convert the nonlinear Klein–Gordon equation into an ordinary differential equation that can be written as a one-dimensional Hamiltonian system. The qualitative theory is applied to investigate and describe phase portraits of the Hamiltonian system. Based on the bifurcation constraints on the system parameters, we integrate the conserved quantities to build new wave solutions that can be classified into periodic, kink (anti-kink), and solitary wave solutions. Some of the obtained solutions are clarified graphically and their connection with the phase orbits is derived. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Uterine fibroids (UFs) or leiomyomas (LM) are common benign neoplasms of the uterus. UFs have many complications and can negatively affect the women's quality of life, and their management can get interventional. This review discusses the epidemiology, etiology, pathogenesis, and genetic origin of UFs as well as the contributing epigenetic factors to their development. We correlated some of the driving genetic factors of fibroids with their presentation or location on ultrasound clinically. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The precipitation-based indices such as the standardized precipitation index (SPI), the standardized anomaly index (SAI), the rainfall anomaly index (RAI), the percent of normal precipitation (PNP), the China Z index (CZI), and the modified China Z index (MCZI) were compared using monthly precipitation data from 28 synoptic stations in Serbia for the period 1946–2019. The MCZI and CZI showed the lowest similarity to the SPI index that was selected as a reference drought index. According to the findings of the present study, the RAI index was proposed as an index that has the most similar performance to the SPI index. Based on the spatial distribution of the RAI values for the year 2000, the whole region except the western part of Serbia can be classified as extremely dry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dispersion state of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) in cellulose nanofibrils (CNFs) film at variant sonication time in the presence of sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) has been studied in this work. The sonication was extended up to 120 min, and the CNF-CNTs-SDS suspension's viscosity was measured at different times. Overall, viscosity of CNF-CNTs-SDS suspension decreased continuously as sonication continued except for the period of 60–75 min, where an increase in the viscosity was observed. Based on morphological investigations, the partial dispersion of particles at the early stage of sonication (i.e. up to 60 min) was followed by coagulation or reagglomeration of the particles during 60–75 min and increasing sonication time by 120 min led to improved dispersion of CNTs in CNFs. Likewise, the electrical conductivity and tensile strength obeyed the same trend due to improved CNTs-CNFs film's network (30–60 and 75–120 min) and the corresponding reduction (60–75 min) caused by the partial agglomeration of CNT and CNF moieties. These findings highlight that sonication time is not a straightforward parameter and should be elaborated to reach the desired dispersion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PdM (M=Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, and Ag) alloy nanoparticles with low M content were prepared using a chemical method and characterized by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE‐SEM), energy dispersive X‐ray (EDX), EDX mapping, X‐ray diffraction (XRD), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analyses. The electro‐oxidation of formic acid on these samples was investigated by linear sweep voltammetry, cyclic voltammetry, and chronoamperometry in H2SO4 solution. The PdAg electrocatalyst demonstrated superior electrocatalytic activity toward the oxidation of formic acid with the mass activity of 1980 mA mg−1Pd which was significantly higher than the mass activity of commercial Pd/C electrocatalysts. Additionally, the PdAg electrocatalyst had the best CO poisoning tolerance as well as the best stability in the considered solution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Many studies have shown that non-ergonomic positioning of the spine is one of the main causes of postural deformity. In this regard, opium smoking requires sitting in non-ergonomic positions, which increases the possibility of posture disorders due to exposure for several hours a day and over many years. Objectives: This study aimed to compare neck pain and disability, forward head posture (FHP), and the curvature of the thoracic spine (thoracic hyperkyphosis [THK]) in opium users and non-drug users. Methods: In this comparative cross-sectional study, 80 opium smokers were compared with 74 non-drug users in terms of craniovertebral angle (FHP), THK, and neck pain (Visual Analog Scale [VAS]) and disability (neck disability index [NDI]). Data were analyzed by Kolmogorov-Smirnov and independent t-tests using SPSS version 23. Results: The difference between the 2 groups was significant in all variables, including VAS (P = 0.004), NDI (P < 0.001), craniovertebral angle (P = 0.003), and THK (P = 0.006). Conclusions: Forward head posture, THK, neck pain, and neck disability are more prevalent in opium smokers than non-drug users. This could be due to the long hours of the non-ergonomic position while smoking opium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Opium smoking has been a common practice in Iran for many years, with people often smoking for long hours. During the COVID-19 pandemic, there was an increase in opium smoking due to false beliefs about its protective effects against COVID-19 infection. In this study, we aimed to examine the association between the non-ergonomic positions associated with traditional opium smoking in Iran and the development of neck pain and disability, forward head posture (FHP), and hyperkyphosis (HK). In this cross-sectional, correlational study, a total of 120 individuals who smoked opium were selected based on the inclusion criteria. They were interviewed about their addiction profile using the Lite version of the Addiction Severity Index and the Leeds Dependence Questionnaire. The presence of neck pain and disability was also evaluated using the Visual Analog Scale and the Neck Disability Index. The participants were examined for FHP via side-view photography and for HK using a flexible ruler. Data were analyzed using correlation coefficient tests and stepwise linear regression analysis. Based on the results, homelessness, the lifetime duration of opium smoking (in months), the duration of daily opium smoking (in minutes), and the severity of drug dependence had significant relationships with the severity of neck pain, neck disability, FHP, and HK. Homelessness was the strongest predictor of neck pain and disability (R2 = 0.367, p < 0.001), FHP (R2 = 0.457, p < 0.001), and HK (R2 = 0.476, p < 0.001), followed by the lifetime duration of opium smoking and the duration of daily opium smoking, respectively, in which R2 increased to 0.505 (p = 0.011), 0.546 (p = 0.022), and 0.570 (p = 0.004) with the addition of two other variables. Overall, an increase in the duration of sitting in non-ergonomic positions could lead to neck pain and disability, FHP, and HK due to the non-neutral posture of opium smokers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Liver is an important player in regulation of body homeostasis. Study investigated the effects of hydro-alcohol extract of Zataria multiflora (ZM) on oxidative damage, level of IL-6 and enzymes of liver in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-treated rats. Materials and Methods: The rats were distributed into 5 groups: 1) Control; 2) LPS; and 3-5) ZM-Extract (Ext) 50, ZM-Ext 100, and ZM-Ext 200. ZM-Ext groups received 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg of extract 30 min before LPS. Drugs were injected intraperitoneally. The entire period of this project was 17 days. In first three days, only extract was injected and then, ZM was injected along with LPS. Results: LPS increased the level of ALT (Alanine aminotransferase), AST (Aspartate aminotransferase ), ALK-P (Alkaline Phosphatase), IL-6, malondialdehyde (MDA), and nitric oxide (NO) metabolites and lowered thiol, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) concentration. ZM extract not only reduced ALT, AST, ALK-P, IL-6, MDA, and NO metabolites concentrations but also increased thiol content, and SOD and CAT levels. Conclusion: Extract of ZM prevented LPS-induced hepatotoxicity. This protective effect was associated with reduction in inflammation and oxidative stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cadmium is an environmental toxicant that instigates cognitive deficits with excessive glutamate excitatory neuroactivity in the brain. Topiramate, a glutamate receptor antagonist, has displayed favorable neuroprotection against epilepsy, cerebral ischemia, and Huntington's disease; however, its effect on cadmium neurotoxicity remains to be investigated. In this study, topiramate was tested for its potential to combat the cognitive deficits induced by cadmium in rats with an emphasis on hippocampal oxidative insult, apoptosis, and autophagy. After topiramate intake (50 mg/kg/day; p.o.) for 8 weeks, behavioral disturbances and molecular changes in the hippocampal area were explored. Herein, Morris water maze, Y-maze, and novel object recognition test revealed that topiramate rescued cadmium-induced memory/learning deficits. Moreover, topiramate significantly lowered hippocampal histopathological damage scores. Mechanistically, topiramate significantly replenished hippocampal GLP-1 and dampened Aβ42 and p-tau neurotoxic cues. Notably, it significantly diminished hippocampal glutamate content and enhanced acetylcholine and GABA neurotransmitters. The behavioral recovery was prompted by hippocampal suppression of the pro-oxidant events with notable activation of SIRT1/Nrf2/HO-1 axis. Moreover, topiramate inactivated GSK-3β and dampened the hippocampal apoptotic changes. In tandem, stimulation of hippocampal pro-autophagy events, including Beclin 1 upregulation, was triggered by topiramate that also activated AMPK/mTOR pathway. Together, the pro-autophagic, antioxidant, and anti-apoptotic features of topiramate contributed to its neuroprotective properties in rats intoxicated with cadmium. Therefore, it may be useful to mitigate cadmium-induced cognitive deficits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Demand forecasting and studying the behavior of customers is of high importance. Without accurate planning for the future, organizations might risk their future. In other words, failure to have reliable planning for the future increases organizational expenses and, in turn, increases production costs, which leads to a higher end-price of goods (services). Forecasting demand in the supply chain follows the same rule. In this paper, the level of customer demand in the chicken meat industry has been studied. Considering that the relationship between the decision variables is more linear or non-linear, artificial neural networks are used to analyze the data to overcome this challenge. The approach used in this study includes the combination of time series and artificial neural networks. After analyzing the data for a period of 120 days for 24 selected chicken meat stores located in the city of Arak (Iran), the future demand for each store has been determined. Forecasted demands are reported as triangular fuzzy numbers. The results showed that stores number 4 and 24 have the lowest and highest demand, respectively. Also, instead of point forecasting, interval forecasting has been provided, and all data analysis has been done in MATLAB software. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In some inferential statistical methods, such as tests and confidence intervals, it is important to describe the stochastic behavior of statistical functionals, aside from their large sample properties. We study such a behavior in terms of the usual stochastic order. For this purpose, we introduce a generalized family of stochastic orders, which is referred to as transform orders, showing that it provides a flexible framework for deriving stochastic monotonicity results. Given that our general definition makes it possible to obtain some well known ordering relations as particular cases, we can easily apply our method to different families of functionals. These include some prominent inequality measures, such as the generalized entropy, the Gini index, and its generalizations. We also illustrate the applicability of our approach by determining the least favorable distribution, and the behavior of some bootstrap statistics, in some goodness‐of‐fit testing procedures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]