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In order to identify nematodes associated with insects in the forested areas of Guilan province, Iran, soil, wood, and insect samples were collected. Nematodes were extracted using the insect-baiting method, and the obtained specimens were analyzed based on both morphological and morphometric characteristics. This investigation led to the discovery populations belonging to the genera Distolabrellus and Oscheius, identified as D. veechi and O. tipulae, respectively. Molecular identification was carried out through molecular analysis, encompassing the D2-D3 expansion segment of 28S, ITS, and 18S genes of rRNA. The phylogenetic analyses placed these nematodes within their respective clades with high bootstrap support, confirming their identity. This survey marks the first discovery of D. veechi and male O. tipulae in Iran, introducing them as new records for the country.

A 44-year-old man with a history of epilepsy presented with mild, persistent chest pain lasting 3 days, despite normal cardiac evaluations. A chest computed tomography scan revealed 3 artificial dental prostheses lodged in his esophagus, which the patient had inadvertently swallowed during a recent seizure. Endoscopic removal of the foreign bodies resolved his chest pain without complications. This case emphasizes the importance of considering esophageal foreign bodies as a differential diagnosis for persistent chest pain, particularly in patients with neurological conditions, and highlights the role of early imaging for accurate diagnosis and timely intervention.

Understanding the fatigue behavior of concrete structures under cyclic loading is crucial for enhancing their durability and performance in demanding applications. In this study, four types of concrete mixtures containing varying percentages of Nano-Silica (NS) (0.0 %, 0.5 %, 1.0 %, and 1.5 %) were prepared to evaluate their mechanical properties and fatigue performance. The investigation focused on assessing the monotonic tensile and compressive behavior, as well as the tensile fatigue life, to establish the relationship between NS content, mechanical properties, and fatigue resistance. Key findings indicate that the optimal NS content for enhancing uniaxial compressive strength (UCS), tensile strength (σt), and elastic modulus (E) was 1.0 %. However, fatigue life under cyclic tensile loading decreased with increasing NS content due to the increased brittleness (B) introduced by higher strength mixtures. Secondary strain rate analysis and brittleness index (BI) calculations further highlighted the balance between mechanical enhancement and deformation capacity. These results provide valuable insights into the design of NS-modified concrete for applications requiring a balance between strength and fatigue durability under extreme loading conditions.

The global population and economic development surge has substantially increased water demand, resulting in heightened sewage and pollutant generation, posing environmental hazards. Addressing this challenge necessitates the implementation of efficient and cost-effective water reclamation methods. Non-thermal plasma technology (NTP) has emerged as a promising solution, garnering attention for its superior efficiency compared to alternatives. While existing studies have predominantly focused on energy efficiency and pollutant removal, limited research has delved into the biological removal aspect, particularly concerning algae. This study utilized a dielectric barrier plasma diffuser to eliminate Spirulina microalgae (Spirulina platensis) from wastewater solutions, demonstrating higher algae removal and superior mass transfer compared to alternative plasma methods. The effect of sample volume, input voltage and power, flow rate, and initial solution concentration on the algae removal was investigated. Investigation of operational parameters revealed the best condition resulting in a 98 % removal rate and 20 g/kWh energy efficiency. The best conditions for the removal of Spirulina microalgae were considered in a sample volume of 50 mL, a voltage of 7.6 kV, a flow rate of 700 mL/min, and an initial solution concentration of 1280 mg/liter. Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) images illustrated the impact of active species on cell structure, leading to the destruction of spiral form and loss of reproductive ability. The study underscores the potential of NTP for efficient algae removal and identifies key active species involved in the process. The removal of Spirulina microalgae was attributed to a combination of singlet oxygen (1O2), hydroxyl radicals, and ozone.

Additively manufactured complex geometries from copper alloys with high thermal and mechanical properties have drawn the attention of researchers. The present contribution explores the additive manufacturing (AM) of copper-based alloys from powder particles intended for heat sink and heat exchange applications. Selective laser melting (SLM) parameters featuring low laser beam power (160 W), moderate scanning speed (320 mm/s), and high energy density (200 J/mm³) were employed to fabricate dense components from CuSn10 particles. The present work deal with structural analysis and precision investigation of microfabrication, particularly in Struts, Tubes, and Fins. Mechanical properties (compression and hardness) for Strut structure, differential pressure evaluations for Tube structure, and analyses of thermal and electrical conductivities for Fin structure were investigated. The results showed an improvement in strength compared to those of pure copper, facilitating ease of AM. The obtained results affirm the feasibility of AM, demonstrating the successful creation of complex and combined solid-porous structures using SLM process from Cu alloys. A comprehensive structural investigation and characterization of the Cu–Sn alloy is presented here, aiming to establish a standardized approach for analysing Cu alloys. The results indicate that small-scaled structures fabricated via CuSn10 alloy exhibits a thermal conductivity of 34.3 W·m⁻¹·K⁻¹, an electrical conductivity of 4.72×10⁶ S/m, a hardness of 119 HV-50, a uniform surface roughness of 6 µm, and can withstand a force loading of 1 kN.

Background & aim: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a progressive chronic disease that can have an effective role on the psychological status of these people due to physical disability and chronic pain. Considering the importance of this issue, the present study was conducted with the aim of investigating the effectiveness of compassion-focused acceptance and commitment therapy on catastrophizing and acceptance of pain in people with MS. Methods: The statistical population of the present clinical-trial study included all MS patients of Borujerd, Iran, registered in the MS Association in 2022. Fifty participants voluntarily participated in the present research and were randomly divided into two groups; 25 people in each group. Treatment group sessions based on acceptance and commitment with a focus on compassion included 10 90-minute sessions that were held once a week for the intervention group; but the control group did not receive any intervention during this period. In the present study, Pain Catastrophizing Scale (PCS) and Chronic Pain Acceptance Questionnaire – Revised (CPAQ-R) were used. Data analysis was done in SPSS-24 statistical software using repeated measurement variance analysis. Results: The results indicated that the intervention was significant over time on the variables of pain catastrophizing (F=5.347, p=0.007) and pain acceptance (F=30.446, p=0.001). In fact, the results of the Bonferroni test displayed that in the treatment group, there were changes between pre-test and post-test (p=0.001) and pre-test and follow-up (p=0.001) in the variables of pain catastrophizing and acceptance. There was a significant difference in pain, but no significant difference was observed between the post-test and the follow-up, which indicated the stability of the treatment effect over time. No significant difference was observed in the control group. Conclusion: In general, it can be concluded that acceptance and commitment therapy with a focus on compassion had an effective role in reducing pain catastrophizing and increasing pain acceptance in MS patients. 901

This research studied Arthrospira (Spirulina) maxima for their approximate chemical composition, fatty acid composition, amino acid composition, protein nutritional quality, lipid nutritional quality, and anti-amylase capacity. The study on Arthrospira indicates a significantly high protein content of 45.50 %, along with 21 % carbohydrates, 17 % lipids, and 9.33 % ash content. The amino acid profile shows high levels of alanine (17.38 g), glycine (11.75 g), and glutamic acid (9.69 g) per 100 g protein. The protein quality is noteworthy, with significant amounts of protein efficiency ratio, and essential, non-essential, hydrophobic, ketogenic, branched-chain, flavor, and sulfur amino acids. Additionally, the study highlights a diverse fatty acid profile, including linolenic and palmitic acids, with a high percentage of unsaturated fatty acids (75.76 %) and polyunsaturated fatty acids (71.63 %). Given the lipid nutritional quality indices, Arthrospira had promising unsaturation, peroxidability health-promoting, omega-6/omega-3, hypocholesterolemic, nutritive value, atherogenicity, and thrombogenicity indices. Ultraviolet absorption, fluorescence quenching analysis, and Colorimetric assay revealed that protein and lipid hydrolysate interact with amylase and inhibit amylase activity. Therefore, Arthrospira can be considered a functional food with high nutritional quality and is imperative as an amylase inhibitor for diabetes management.

Two families of entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs), Steinernematidae and Heterorhabditidae, that are symbiotically associated with Xenorhabdus and Photorhabdus bacteria, are one of the effective biological control agents of insect pests. Native isolates can probably be more efficacious to control insect pests than exotic ones due to their adaptability to indigenous environmental conditions. In this study, Steinernema feltiae isolate FUM221, was recovered from soil samples collected from the Ardabil Province, Iran. Morphological and morphometric investigations of the first and second-generation adults, infective juveniles, and molecular characterizations were given based on ITS and 18S rDNA genes. Besides, molecular analysis based on the 16S rRNA region and phenetic data recognized Xenorhabdus bovienii as its symbiont bacterium. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images verified the identification of this isolate. The molecular characterization using two loci and phylogenetic analyses provided more evidence for the classification of this steinernematid and its difference of the same species from other countries. Moreover, molecular and phenetic characterizations of its symbiotic bacterium were provided with low variations compared to other isolates. Herein, the comprehensive taxonomic data of this steinernematid and its symbiont bacterium, is presented from Iran.

Summary: Sleep consists of two basic stages: non-rapid eye movement (NREM) and rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. NREM sleep is characterized by slow high-amplitude cortical electroencephalogram (EEG) signals, while REM sleep is characterized by desynchronized cortical rhythms. Despite this, recent electrophysiological studies have suggested the presence of slow waves (SWs) in local cortical areas during REM sleep. Electrophysiological techniques, however, have been unable to resolve the regional structure of these activities because of relatively sparse sampling. Here, we map functional gradients in cortical activity during REM sleep using mesoscale imaging in mice and show local SW patterns occurring mainly in somatomotor and auditory cortical regions with minimum presence within the default mode network. The role of the cholinergic system in local desynchronization during REM sleep is also explored by calcium imaging of cholinergic activity within the cortex and analyzing structural data. We demonstrate weaker cholinergic projections and terminal activity in regions exhibiting frequent SWs during REM sleep.

Coordinated peri-ripple activity in the hippocampal-neocortical network is essential for mnemonic information processing in the brain. Hippocampal ripples likely serve different functions in sleep and awake states. Thus, the corresponding neocortical activity patterns may differ in important ways. We addressed this possibility by conducting voltage and glutamate wide-field imaging of the neocortex with concurrent hippocampal electrophysiology in awake mice. Contrary to our previously published sleep results, deactivation and activation were dominant in post-ripple neocortical voltage and glutamate activity, respectively, especially in the agranular retrosplenial cortex (aRSC). Additionally, the spiking activity of aRSC neurons, estimated by two-photon calcium imaging, revealed the existence of two subpopulations of excitatory neurons with opposite peri-ripple modulation patterns: one increases and the other decreases firing rate. These differences in peri-ripple spatiotemporal patterns of neocortical activity in sleep versus awake states might underlie the reported differences in the function of sleep versus awake ripples.

It is widely accepted that endosymbiont interactions with their hosts have significant effects on the fitness of both pests and beneficial species. A particular type of endosymbiosis is that of beneficial associations. Facultative endosymbiotic bacteria are associated with elements that provide aphids with protection from parasitoids. Arsenophonus (Enterobacterales: Morganellaceae) is one such endosymbiont bacterium, with infections being most commonly found among the Hemiptera species. Here, black cowpea aphids (BCAs), Aphis craccivora Koch (Hemiptera: Aphididae), naturally infected with Arsenophonus, were evaluated to determine the defensive role of this bacterium in BCAs against two parasitoid wasp species, Binodoxys angelicae and Lysiphlebus fabarum (both in Braconidae: Aphidiinae). Individuals of the black cowpea aphids infected with Arsenophonus were treated with a blend of ampicillin, cefotaxime, and gentamicin (Arsenophonus-reduced infection, AR) and subsequently subjected to parasitism assays. The results showed that the presence of Arsenophonus does not prevent BCAs from being parasitized by either B. angelicae or L. fabarum. Nonetheless, in BCA colonies parasitized by B. angelicae, the endosymbiont delayed both the larval maturation period and the emergence of the adult parasitoid wasps. In brief, Arsenophonus indirectly limits the effectiveness of B. angelicae parasitism by decreasing the number of emerged adult wasps. Therefore, other members of the BCA colony can survive. Arsenophonus acts as a double-edged sword, capturing the complex dynamic between A. craccivora and its parasitoids.

Professor Ebrahim Behad, emeritus professor of Agricultural Research, Education and Extension Organization (AREEO), Isfahan Center, and professor at Islamic Azad University, Khorasgan branch passed away at the age of 85 on March 2021. Despite administrative responsibilities, he is the author of several books which some are references mostly for undergraduate students. His key role in holding two rounds of the Iranian Plant Protection Congress is memorable. Also, he published some peer-reviewed scientific articles and a lot of extension booklets and was involved in teaching and supervision the postgraduate students, mainly at the Isfahan University of Technology.

Design of cascade based on operational functions of a single machine is an important goal in the isotope separation theory. By recognizing the behavior of gas in a centrifuge machine, a cascade with desirable properties and parameters can be designed. In the classical theory of multistage separation installation, it has been shown that in an ideal cascade (no mixing) the total number of separation elements flow is minimal, and accordingly, the maximum separation work unit (SWU) of the cascade occurs. In the practical form, the cut and separation factors may assume to be dependent on the feed flow. Using specific functional parameters, the algorithm, design the functional cascades (DFUNCAS), can design the functional symmetric and asymmetric cascades. DFUNCAS can design a cascade with stated waste and product concentration. Furthermore, the program can design symmetric and asymmetric cascades. In this work, four test cases were considered and the results show that the DFUNCAS can design any kind of cascade accurately.

Stage cut control and simulation are the most important aspects in the optimum binary mixture or multi-component multiobjective cascades. Numerical investigation revealed that by controlling the cut of a separation cascade, defined as the ratio of the product rate to the feed rate, it is always possible to separate a multi-component mixture into two specified groups of components, a light group, and a heavy group, in just one separation run. In this paper, the equations related to the cut control are introduced and it is proposed that for controlling stage cuts, putting one valve in the product section of each stage is enough. By solving the set of non-linear equations related to the machine behavior, valve, and pressure drop in the pipelines and junctions, the valve setting for each stage can be obtained. In the end, some examples of an optimal cascade are studied and valve setting parameters are obtained.

Prof. Mahmoud Shojaei, a prestigious professor of entomology at Tehran University and Islamic Azad University, passed away at 93 on November 25, 2018. Prof. Shojaei's contribution to entomology was profound and enduring, 63 years of teaching and research. He was former Dean of Faculty of Agriculture, University of Tehran and manager of Jalal Afshar's Zoological Museum, at Karaj campus of the University of Tehran.

The purpose of this study was to compare the brand communication dimensions in the clothing and footwear industry. This research was descriptive-correlational and its statistical population consisted of consumers of footwear and sports clothing in Iran. The statistical sample was estimated according to the Cochran formula. Finally, 379 questionnaires were used to analyse the data. The findings of this study showed that all the paths except for the effect of brand experience on satisfaction in both industries and the effect of experience on loyalty in the shoe industry was significant. The role of mediator of brand loyalty and satisfaction in all directions, except the path of brand experience to loyalty, has been confirmed in the sports shoes industry. Comparing the two proposed models, only trust path on brand satisfaction, had a significant difference between the sports shoes industry and the sports clothing industry.

Background: Given the rising rate of infertility, the prevalence of mental health disorders in infertile couples is undeniable. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of Integrative Behavioral Couple Therapy (IBCT) on infertility self-efficacy, dyadic adjustment, and sexual satisfaction in infertile couples. Methods: The present single-case experimental study used a multiple-baseline design. The statistical population of the study included all infertile couples referring to infertility centers in Ahvaz City, Iran, in 2019. The research instruments included the Infertility Self-Efficacy Scale (ISE), the Dyadic Adjustment Scale (DAS), and the Sexual Satisfaction Questionnaire (SSQ). Following a diagnostic interview, 3 couples were selected using the convenience sampling technique. Integrative behavioral couple therapy was conducted in twelve 120-minute sessions for the intervention group. The second couple entered the study in the second session of the first couple; the third couple enrolled the treatment plan in the third session of the first couple and the second session of the second couple. All questionnaires were completed in the first, third, sixth, eighth, and tenth sessions; the study participants were followed up and re-assessed two months later. The collected data were analyzed in SPSS using chart analysis, reliable change index, and significance statistics. Results: The provided IBCT increased infertility self-efficacy (39.04%), dyadic adjustment (25.91%), and sexual satisfaction (55.01%) in infertile couples. Besides, the improvement lasted throughout the follow-up which indicated the effectiveness of IBCT on infertility self-efficiency, dyadic adjustment, and sexual satisfaction in the study subjects. Conclusion: IBCT can be effective in improving personal and marital variables in infertile couples with infertility problems in addition to their marital problems.

AbstractResting-state functional networks such as the default mode network (DMN) dominate spontaneous brain dynamics. To date, the mechanisms linking brain structure and brain dynamics and functions in cognition, perception, and action remain unknown, mainly due to the uncontrolled and erratic nature of the resting state. Here we used a stimulation paradigm to probe the brain’s resting behavior, providing insights on state-space stability and multiplicity of network trajectories after stimulation. We performed explorations on a mouse model to map spatiotemporal brain dynamics as a function of the stimulation site. We demonstrated the emergence of known functional networks in brain responses. Several responses heavily relied on the DMN and were suggestive of the DMN playing a mechanistic role between functional networks. We probed the simulated brain responses to the stimulation of regions along the information processing chains of sensory systems from periphery up to primary sensory cortices. Moreover, we compared simulated dynamics against in vivo brain responses to optogenetic stimulation. Our results underwrite the importance of anatomical connectivity in the functional organization of brain networks and demonstrate how functionally differentiated information processing chains arise from the same system.

Abstract Integrated pest management (IPM) has recognized as a sustainable method for pest prevention, monitoring, and control. The purpose of this review article focused on biological control potential and challenges in Afghanistan. Biological control is beginning to increase in Afghanistan, in large part due to the establishment of graduate studies in entomology in 2008. Afghan farmers have restricted knowledge about agrochemicals and mostly use a few conventional chemical pesticides and fertilizers. The development and registration of biological agents as an alternative is a more recent movement. Only a single parasitoid agent and three microbial products were registered or pending registration for commercial use on various crops. Products based on Trichogramma brassicae (Bezdenko 1968) for lepidopteran pests, Trichoderma viride against soil-borne pathogens including Rhizoctonia solani, Macrophomina phaseolina, and Fusarium species are most widely spread. Also, T. viride, Cydia pomonella granulovirus, and Helicoverpa zea nucleopolyhedrovirus registered in 2015. Pesticide registration is the responsibility of the Afghan Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation and Livestock, with the assistance of the Pesticides Division of Plant Protection and Quarantine Department in coordination with the Ministry of Public Health. The pesticide management board of the National Environmental Protection Agency has not yet signed the membership of the World Trade Organization (WTO) or the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC). Currently, only one foreign company, the National Horticulture and Livestock Project (NHLP), produces microbial pesticides. However, it promised that two more other companies, the Center for Agricultural Bioscience International and the Afghanistan Agriculture Inputs Projects, will start production shortly. This is a review of the brief history of biological control of pests, with a view on current challenges of pest control practices as well the status of the market and the registration procedures for biocontrol agents, along with challenges and opportunities for the development of biocontrol in Afghanistan.

Industry 5.0 combines automation/digitalization with human capabilities to create a more intuitive, interactive, and sustainable working environment. Additive manufacturing, widely known as 3D printing, is a key technology used to increase customization and efficiency and reduce waste in manufacturing. Industry 5.0 enables manufacturers to create environmentally sustainable and consumer-centric products. However, there is a lack of studies on the introduction of AM technologies to Industry 5.0. The present study investigates the use of additive manufacturing for the fabrication of metallic parts/assemblies and the correlation between human-centric technologies, additive manufacturing, and environmental sustainability. Effective communication between these components is the key to achieving the goals of Industry 5.0, and the important parameters are shown in this article. The present work is focused on an overview and the impact of the futuristic subdivision of additive manufacturing applied to the fabrication of metallic parts/assemblies, more specifically, the 3D printing of challenging alloys or composites (such as copper alloys and/or composites with hard particles).

Background: Human resource is among the factors that influence the survival of organizations. It has always been considered by organization managers and officials. The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between big five personality and work engagement among Malayer University staff. Methods: This descriptive correlation study was conducted among the Malayer University staff. A total of 140 employees were selected by convenience sampling. Measurement tools in the study were: The Big Five Inventory (NEO) and Utrecht Work Engagement Scale. The data were analyzed by descriptive statistics (mean and standard deviation), Pearson’s correlation coefficient, as well as multiple linear regressions. The collected data were analyzed using SPSS-v 22.0. Results: Pearson correlation analysis showed that work engagement had a significant positive relationship with conscientiousness (P

Like any other precipitation process, in supercritical water hydrothermal synthesis (SWHS), the need to improve product quality and minimize production cost requires understanding and optimization of Particle Size Distribution (PSD). In this work, using Population Balance Equation (PBE) containing nucleation and growth terms, the reactive precipitation of zirconia nanoparticles prepared by SWHS in the batch reactor was modeled. An optimization method using genetic algorithm function in MATLAB environment was developed to find simultaneously the kinetic parameters of nucleation and crystal growth rates, used for predicting PSD in PBE. The methodology developed evaluated kinetic parameters at comparable order of magnitudes to those presented in the literature, indicating a reasonable validation of the modeling method adopted. PSD results, however, showed a weak convergence of experimental and those predicted, suggesting that here, aggregation most likely played a considerable role in the PBE modeling of SWHS preparation of the zirconia nanoparticles.

Abstract A survey was conducted in three main regions of Iraq to isolate and identify entomopathogenic and insect parasitic nematodes. Soil samples were collected from 15 sites across 3 provinces from grassland, date palm, and citrus fields, and tested for the presence of nematodes. Out of 100 samples collected, 2 isolates of nematodes were recognized. The collected specimens were characterized first morphologically and then by molecular studies to characterize and identify the isolates based on ITS and 18S rDNA genes. Both isolates were recovered from soil samples of citrus and palm orchards located in 3 regions in the city of Baghdad. The isolates were identified by analyzing sequenced results and then by DNA sequences that were blasted against the NCBI database in GenBank. The 2 isolates were separated into 2 genera, assigned as IRQ.1 and were identified as Heterorhabditis and IRQ.2, that was identified as Oscheius. Molecular analysis and phylogenetic relationship of both genera were analyzed, using the DNA sequences of 2 loci. The Heterorhabditis species was assigned as Heterorhabditis bacteriophora, while the Oscheius species was identified as Oscheius myriophilus. These species were the first to be reported in Iraq.

Introduction: Silver nanoparticles have a wide range of aplications in medical sciences which their efects depend on their size. Synthesis of Silver nanoparticles is very valuable due to its numerous applications in detection of pathogens, cancer therapy and targeted drug delivery. The purpose of this research is to production of silver nanoparticles by using the aerial parts extract of Ferulago angulata extract and Check Antimicrobial activity of nanoparticles. Material and Method: To achieve this purpose, the obtained extract from Ferulago angulata Plant, was exposed to the silver nitrate solution of 0.1 molar with different concentrations for duration of 24,48, 72 and 96 hours. After changing the color to brown, by using UV-visible, DLS, SEM, TEM, XRD and FTIR analyses the existence of Nano silver particle was proved. Results: The UV-visible spectroscopy showed that silver nanoparticles had an absorption peak at 450 nm. By considering the results of conducted analyses, the mean diameter of particles was 19 nm and the size of particles about 3 to 62 nm and were spherical shape. Finally, the antimicrobial activity of silver nanoparticles against the Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus, Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa was investigated and proved. Conclusion: The obtained results show the good functioning of this plant for the synthesis of nanoparticles clearly. So, It can be useful in the treatment of many diseases transmitted by the bacteria in the medical field.

Abstract Background Substantial evidence provides support for the role of diet in the prevention and control of mental disorders. However, since there is no study regarding the relationship between dietary diversity and stress or depression, we aimed to determine the relationship between the dietary diversity score (DDS) and stress and depression in women. Methods This descriptive-analytical cross-sectional study was performed on 360 women aged 20–49 years attending health centers in the south of Tehran. The dietary intake and score of depression, anxiety, and stress were measured using a 24-h dietary recall and the 42-item depression, anxiety, stress scales questionnaire, respectively. The DDS was calculated based on the FAO 2013 guidelines. Data were analyzed using Chi-square, analysis of variance, Spearman correlation coefficient, and multivariable logistic regression tests. Results In total, 31.4 and 25.8% of the subjects suffered from depression and stress, respectively. After adjusting for confounders, a one-unit increase in DDS was associated with a 39% reduction in the risk of severe depression. The DDS was not significantly associated with mild or moderate depression, and no significant relationship was observed between the DDS and stress. Conclusions The DDS could be inversely associated with depression in women. Since we observed no significant relationship between stress and DDS, further studies are needed in this regard.

Background: in this study, we examined the risk factors and the effects of substance abuse on the incidence of ischemic heart disease in patients less than 40 years old in Shahid Rajaei Hospital in Karaj from 2019-2020. Methods: This case-control study was done on 70 patients in the cases and 70 cases in the control groups. All demographic data, including age, gender, place of residence, weight, height, body mass index, cardiovascular (CVD) risk factors, including hypertension, high levels of blood fats, diabetes, a history of smoking cigarettes, tobacco, crystal meth, and cocaine, alcohol consumption, as well as a history of taking supplements for bodybuilding, and sex-enhancing drugs were obtained. Afterward, blood levels of glucose and fats were evaluated and urine analysis for the presence of drugs, such as amphetamine, methamphetamine, buprenorphine, benzodiazepines, cannabinoids, cocaine, morphine, methadone, tramadol, and tricyclic antidepressants (TCA) was done. SPSS software v. 22 was used for data analysis. Results: Among the studied underlying factors and drugs, family history, high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels above 130 mg/dL were significantly associated with a higher risk of acute myocardial infarction (MI) (P0.05). Conclusion: according to the results of the present study, it seems that a positive family history of MI under the age of 55, hypertension, diabetes, smoking, and LDL levels above 130 mg/dL are more significant risk factors for acute MI in patients under 40 years of age in comparison with the consumption of alcohol and the use of hookah, opium, methadone, heroin, cocaine, cannabis, amphetamine, methamphetamine, tramadol, benzodiazepines, TCA, buprenorphine, and anabolic steroids. It should be noted that further studies in this area are recommended.

In order to improve the knowledge of the Caelifera species of north eastern Iran, faunistic investigations on grasshoppers of this region were carried out during 2013-2014. Collected specimens as well as deposited specimens in Insect Museum of Ferdowsi University of Mashhad were examined, in detail. Totally 19 species belonging to 17 genera, 9 subfamilies and 3 families were collected and determined. Among them Paranocarodes straubei is newly recorded for the fauna of Iran. In addition to faunistic records, differences in species diversity and captured numbers upon time of day were investigated via sweep sampling at two rangeland sites during 2013-2014. There were no significant differences among capture rates in various day hours; so standardized grasshopper sampling could be done between the hours of 8:00 and 16:00 to generate consistent estimates of rangeland grasshopper densities.

Objective (s): Obesity is affected by genetic, behavioral and cultural factors and has severe negative impact on body and mental health. The objective of this study was finding the possible association between overweight and depression, in regard to socio-economic factors Methods: This cross sectional study was conducted on 400 high school girls found by simple random sampling. Questionnaires including demographic information, “Depression Anxiety Stress Scale DASS42”, and “Rosenberg self-esteem, physical activity MET” were filled by pupils. Weight was measured using Seca digital weight scale having 100g precision, and height was measured using inelastic tape installed on wall with 0.5 centimeter of accuracy. Data was analyzed using Chi-square, t-test, ANOVA and logistic regression statistical. Results: Prevalence of overweight and obesity was 21.8%, and prevalence of depression was 54.7%. The depression prevalence was significantly higher in overweight and obese subjects (P

Mutualistic interaction between aphids and ants is one of the classical examples of mutualism. The current study was carried out during 2013-2014 in Golestan province, North-eastern Iran, to investigate the myrmecophilous aphids and their relationships with ants. In this study, 11 ant species representing seven genera and two subfamilies associated with 12 aphid species belonging to two subfamilies were collected on different host plants. Among aphid species, Aphis gossypii Glover 1877 and A. craccivora Koch 1854 were observed frequently associated with ants, while among ant species, Crematogaster subdentata Mayr 1877 and Plagiolepis taurica Santschi 1920 had more frequent interactions with aphids. Moreover, except Formica persica, all ant species were reported for the first time from Golestan province. More detailed studies are needed to investigate aphid–ant mutualistic relationships in Iran to understand their complicated relationships in nature.

The aphid species, Cinara pini (Linnaeus, 1758) reported in our previous work as a new aphid on pinus trees for Iran, was described using the classic method and through analysis of COI gene sequence. In the next step, we addressed the efficiency of the entomopathogenic fungus, Lecanicillium longisporum (Zimm.) Zare and Gams strain LRC 190, on the aphid. The fungus was administered to the second instar nymphs and adults using topical application procedure. The results indicated that the entomopathogen caused 90% mortality in adults over seven days at a concentration of 108 spores/ml, while the same control level was achieved for nymphs by 8 × 107 spores/ml. The LC50 values were obtained as 1.2 × 106 and 6.9 × 105 spores/ml for adults and nymphs, respectively. The present study suggests that the entomopathogenic fungus, L. longisporum could be considered as a potential candidate in biocontrol programs of C. pini. This is the first report on the pathogenicity of L. longisporum on C. pini.

Xenorhabdus nematophila and Photorhabdus luminescens are entomopathogenic bacterial symbionts that produce toxic proteins that can interfere with the immune system of insects. Herein, we show that outer membrane proteins (OMPs) could be involved as bacterial virulence factors. Purified totals OMPs of both bacterial species were injected into fifth instar larvae of Spodoptera exigua Hübner. Larvae were surveyed for cellular defenses fluctuations in total haemocyte counts (THC) and granulocyte percentage and for the humoral defenses protease, phospholipase A2 (PLA2), and phenoloxidase (PO) activities at specific time intervals. Changes in the expression of the three inducible antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), cecropin, attacin, and spodoptericin, were also measured. Larvae treated with OMPs of both bacterial species had more haemocytes than did the negative controls. OMPs of X. nematophila caused more haemocyte destruction than did the OMPs of P. luminescens. The OMPs of both bacterial species initially activated insect defensive enzymes post-injection, the degree of activation varying with enzyme type. The AMPs, attacin, cecropin, and spodoptericin were up-regulated by OMP injections compared with the normal larvae. The expression of these three AMPs was maximal at four hours post injection (hpi) with P. luminescens OMPs treatment. Expression of the three AMPs in X. nematophila treated insects was irregular and lower than in the P. luminescens OMPs treatment. These findings provide insights into the role of OMPs of entomopathogenic nematode bacterial symbionts in countering the physiological defenses of insects.

Background & Aim: Body image flexibility is defined as the capacity to experience the ongoing perceptions, sensations, feelings, thoughts, and beliefs associated with one's body fully and intentionally while pursuing chosen values. This study was aimed to translate Body Image flexibility Questionnaire (BI-AAQ ) into Persian language and assess the validity and reliability of the translated version as an instrument to measure body image resilience . Methods & Materials: In this cross-sectional study, 354 students (130 males and 224 females) studying in an academic year (2012-2013) at Tehran University of Medical Sciences were selected through convenience sampling method . Students filled out demographic questionnaires, "body image flexibility questionnaires", "acceptance and action questionnaire edition 2", and "depression, anxiety and stress scale". For data analysis, IBM SPSS 21 and IBM SPSS Amos 21 software were used . Results: The test-retest coefficient was 0.72. The correlation of the scale with the weight consent, psychological flexibility, stress, depression and anxiety was -0.54, 0.33, 0.33, 0.45, and 0.37, respectively; which represented the concurrent validity of the scale. Confirmatory factor analysis results also showed that single-factor model of body image flexibility questionnaire has good fitting the Iran' community. Internal consistency reliability was estimated with Cronbach ’s alpha (α=0.87) . Conclusion: Psychometric characteristics of the body image flexibility questionnaires showed that the questionnaire seems to be acceptable in Iranian society. It is a useful tool for research in the psychological and psychiatric clinics .

Background & Aim: Body image flexibility is defined as the capacity to experience the ongoing perceptions, sensations, feelings, thoughts, and beliefs associated with onechr('39')s body fully and intentionally while pursuing chosen values. This study was aimed to translate Body Image flexibility Questionnaire (BI-AAQ ) into Persian language and assess the validity and reliability of the translated version as an instrument to measure body image resilience . Methods & Materials: In this cross-sectional study, 354 students (130 males and 224 females) studying in an academic year (2012-2013) at Tehran University of Medical Sciences were selected through convenience sampling method . Students filled out demographic questionnaires, "body image flexibility questionnaires", "acceptance and action questionnaire edition 2", and "depression, anxiety and stress scale". For data analysis, IBM SPSS 21 and IBM SPSS Amos 21 software were used . Results: The test-retest coefficient was 0.72. The correlation of the scale with the weight consent, psychological flexibility, stress, depression and anxiety was -0.54, 0.33, 0.33, 0.45, and 0.37, respectively which represented the concurrent validity of the scale. Confirmatory factor analysis results also showed that single-factor model of body image flexibility questionnaire has good fitting the Iranchr('39') community. Internal consistency reliability was estimated with Cronbach ’s alpha (α=0.87) . Conclusion: Psychometric characteristics of the body image flexibility questionnaires showed that the questionnaire seems to be acceptable in Iranian society. It is a useful tool for research in the psychological and psychiatric clinics .

Background: Patientsgenerallyhave the right to be informed of their condition,but the debate over the issue of truth disclosure is still present. The attempt of this study is to review the approaches toward truth- telling to cancer patients in Iran. Materials and Methods: This study is a narrative review that included articles published in Iran on attitudes toward telling the truth to cancer patients. The present study extracted data from articles published in PubMed, Science Direct, Scientific Information Database (SID), Magiran, Iran Medex, Google Scholar, Iranian Research Institute for Information Science and Technology with key terms such as truth disclosure, breaking bad news, death awareness and disclosure of diagnosis without any time restriction. Results: Totally, 21 articles including 14 in English and 7 in Persian were selected and reviewed. The results of the study have shown that although treatment team and caregivers are unwilling to disclose the truth to patients, they have a tendency to obtain more information about their disease. Conclusion: As the incidence of cancer has increased worldwide, telling the truth to patients seeking more information about cancer disease would be inevitable, but more studies are required to provide scientific procedures based on evidence for truth disclosure, not the whole, to cancer patients.

During a survey on the entomopathogenic nematodes from Kerman province of Iran, three new populations of Heterorhabditis bacteriophora were recovered from natural areas. Description, measurement and illustration are provided for these isolates. Molecular analysis on ITS sequence of new isolates of H. bacteriophora set these populations close to a population from South Africa (EU700310). H. bacteriophora and H. georgiana formed a monophyletic group. This is the first data of ITS rDNA of H. bacteriophora from south eastern Iran (Kerman province). Analysis of Iranian H. bacteriophora showed that Kerman isolates place close to Mashhad isolates.

Thrips tabaci Lindeman is an extensively distributed pest insect in many areas that affects plants through direct feeding and at the same time, it makes damage as a vector of different viruses. As a basic first step to control pests is authentic identification, but the inability to determine morphological characters of thrips species makes this process very difficult. For creating an identification key for T. tabaci, an economically important species present in Iran, four individuals were selected from four different sites of Mashhad and the vicinity, each as a separate population. The method was based on nucleotide sequencing analysis of the mitochondrial cytochrome C oxidase I (COI) gene. Phylogenetic analyses conducted by the neighbor-joining method yielded almost identical phylogenetic reconstructions of trees that separated thrips based on the geographic origin. Molecular data indicate that different thrips species are located in distinct groups. These results show that molecular keys can be a useful method to provide much-needed information on thrips identification for pest management officers and quarantine purposes.

Coordinated peri-ripple activity in the hippocampal-neocortical network is essential for mnemonic information processing in the brain. Hippocampal ripples likely serve different functions in sleep and awake states. Thus, the corresponding neocortical activity patterns may differ in important ways. We addressed this possibility by conducting voltage and glutamate wide-field imaging of the neocortex with concurrent hippocampal electrophysiology in awake mice. Contrary to our previously published sleep results, deactivation and activation were dominant in post-ripple neocortical voltage and glutamate activity, respectively, especially in the agranular retrosplenial cortex (aRSC). Additionally, the spiking activity of aRSC neurons, estimated by two-photon calcium imaging, revealed the existence of two subpopulations of excitatory neurons with opposite peri-ripple modulation patterns: one increases and the other decreases firing rate. These differences in peri-ripple spatiotemporal patterns of neocortical activity in sleep versus awake states might underlie the reported differences in the function of sleep versus awake ripples.

The study here deals with the plant synthesis of cadmium oxide nanoparticles using flowers extract of Achillea wilhelmsii as the reducing agent. The photosynthesis is carried out at room temperature in the laboratory ambience. The aqueous cadmium ions when exposed to flower extract were reduced and resulted in their nanoparticles. The synthesized nanoparticles were characterized using techniques such as scanning electron microscope (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and UV-visible absorption spectroscopy. Stable cadmium oxide nanoparticles were formed by treating aqueous solution of cadmium chloride (CdCl2) with the plant flower extracts as reducing agent.