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Abstract This study investigated the effects of the target size and movement distance on user performance and workload in a virtual reality (VR) environment. In a repeated-measures laboratory study, 36 participants (18 male and 18 female) performed the drag-and-drop task as a standard human–computer interaction (HCI) task with different target sizes (1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, and 3 cm) and movement distances (5, 9, 13, 17, and 20 cm). Task completion time (TCT), error rate, and movement time (MT) were measured as performance indices, whereas physical load and effort were assessed as workload indices. The results demonstrated that the target size and movement distance significantly affected all performance measures and workload indices. Large target sizes produced better performance and lower workloads; however, large movement distances decreased performance and increased workload. However, sex had no significant effect on the performance or workload during the drag-and-drop tasks. The best target sizes were 2.5 and 3 cm, and the worst size was 1 cm. The best movement distances were 5 and 9 cm, and the worst distance was 20 cm. The results of this study can provide useful reference information for developing VR technology based on human factors and demonstrate that additional basic research is required to reflect the distinctive features of VR in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study, an expert review, aimed to discuss the emerging challenges of overcoming COVID-19 from the perspective of human factors and the importance of cognitive ergonomics in helping to cope with the epidemic. Identifying these challenges and the use of cognitive ergonomics to optimize human well-being and system performance can be effective in managing COVID-19. Generally, two main preventive approaches such as social distancing and patient care or treatment approaches are being utilized in response to COVID-19. In this paper, human factors challenges that could emerge from covid-19 preventive approaches were discussed. Social distancing forces presence and increases automated systems that lead to increases in cognitive needs, mental workload, stress, etc. Challenges of treatment and health care include the increased workload of healthcare personnel, stress, changing work systems and task allocation that led to fatigue and stress, threats to patient safety, and disruption of interpersonal interactions from a cognitive ergonomic perspective. It is concluded that the challenges of coping with COVID-19 were numerous and important from the perspective of human factors and the role of cognitive ergonomics is important in controlling the disease; hence, it should be taken into consideration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract A variety of human factors/ergonomics (HFE) problems have been studied by researchers and developers in VR environments. This systematic review aimed to summarize important HFE issues and classify the validated instruments used to quantify them in virtual reality environments. The most representative electronic databases for this review (2013–2022) were searched for original articles. The results showed that aspects, such as cybersickness, visual fatigue, mental workload, performance, spatial presence, and usability were the most relevant HFE issues assessed, whereas some aspects, such as physical workload, posture, stress, and discomfort, were consider less often. Previous studies have neglected some human factors and ergonomic issues, such as physical ergonomics, stress, and aftereffects, such as fatigue and human error. In virtual environments, presence was an emerging human factor compared to real environments. Most techniques were unidimensional and subjective. Future studies should focus on more factors and risks associated with HFE by emphasizing objective techniques and multidimensional subjective methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Simple open prostatectomy is still the treatment of choice for removing large prostates; however, peri-surgical bleeding accompanied by this technique has always been a challenge for urologist surgeons. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate the effect of surgicel on reducing bleeding in trans-vesical prostatectomy. Materials and Methods: The present double-blinded clinical trial included 54 patients with Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), divided into two groups of 27, and underwent trans-vesical prostatectomy. After removing the prostate, the prostate adenoma was weighed in the first group. Then, two surgicel were inserted into the prostate loge for prostate adenomas weighing 75 g or less. For larger prostates, another surgicel was inserted for each 25 g weight higher than the limit of 75 g. However, no Surgicel was inserted in the control group. Other steps of the procedure were the same in both groups. Moreover, hemoglobin and hematocrit levels were assessed in both groups; preoperation, intra-operative, 24 h, and 48 h postoperative. In addition, all the fluid used for bladder irrigation was collected, and its hemoglobin level was assessed. Results: According to our results, no intergroup difference in hemoglobin level changes, hematocrit changes, International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), postoperative hospital stay, and number of packed cells received. However, the postoperative blood loss in bladder lavage fluid was significantly higher in the control group (120.83 ± 46.66 g) as compared to the surgicel group (72.56 ± 32.53 g) (P < 0.001). Conclusion: The present study concluded that using surgicel in trans-vesical prostatectomy could reduce postoperative bleeding without increasing the chance of postoperative complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Every year, a large number of people undergo kidney transplants because of various reasons leading to renal failure. These patients usually have low immunoglobulin levels due to the use of immunosuppressive drugs. In recent years, the COVID-19 pandemic has been a major global health risk. Patients who are immunocompromised or who have diabetes are especially at risk. In this study, we enrolled 156 patients who had undergone kidney transplant and had received 2 doses of Sinopharm/BIBP-CorV. The serum antibody levels against COVID-19 spike glycoprotein (immunoglobulin [Ig] G and IgM) were measured using a sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kit to evaluate whether different immunosuppressive drugs could affect the body's response to the said vaccine. We found that only patients receiving Rapamune had increased IgM secondary to COVID-19 vaccine. None of the immunosuppressive drugs in this study have shown a positive correlation with increased IgG levels. The only factor that showed a significant effect on both IgM and IgG was a positive history of COVID-19, which was correlated with increased levels of serum IgG/M. Only patients treated with Rapamune showed an acute immune reaction to the vaccine in the form of positive serum IgM levels, and no rise of serum IgM antibody was observed in COVID-19-naive patients. Patients who had a previous history of COVID-19 infection showed an elevated serum IgM and IgG level, suggesting that vaccines in general and Sinopharm/BIBP-CorV in particular are not enough to ensure immunity against COVID-19 in transplant recipients. We recommend further studies using different types of vaccines and immunosuppressive drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Rumination is significantly frequent in major depressive disorder (MDD). However, not a lot of studies have investigated the effects of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) on rumination.Methods: 61 participants with a minimum Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAM-D) score of 20 were randomly assigned to sham, bilateral stimulation (BS) or unilateral stimulation (US) groups. EEG, The Ruminative Response Scale (RRS), and HAM-D were administered before and after the 20 sessions of rTMS. Phase locked values (PLV) were calculated as a measure of connectivity.Results: There was a significant decrease in HAM-D scores in both BS and US. In responders, BS and US differed significantly in RRS total scores, with greater reduction in BS. PLV significantly changed in the default mode network (DMN) in delta, theta, alpha, and beta in BS, in responders of which PLV decreased in the DMN in beta and gamma. Positive correlations between PLV and brooding in delta and theta, and negative correlations between PLV and reflection were found in theta, alpha, and beta. In US, connectivity in the DMN increased in beta, and PLV increased in theta and beta, and decreased in alpha and beta in its responders. Positive correlations between PLV and brooding in the delta and theta, as well as negative correlations between PLV and reflection in theta were observed in the DMN.Conclusion: US and BS resulted in different modulations in the DMN, however, both could alleviate both rumination and depression. Reductions in the beta and alpha frequency bands in the DMN can be considered as potential EEG-based markers of response to bilateral and unilateral rTMS, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Drowsy driving is one of the leading causes of severe accidents worldwide. In this study, an analyzing method based on drowsiness level proposed to detect drowsiness through electroencephalography (EEG) measurements and vehicle dynamics data. Methods: A driving simulator was used to collect brain data in the alert and drowsy states. The tests were conducted on 19 healthy men. Brain signals from the parietal, occipital, and central parts were recorded. Observer Ratings of Drowsiness (ORD) were used for the drowsiness stages assessment. This study used an innovative method, analyzing drowsiness EEG data were in respect to ORD instead of time. Thirteen features of EEG signal were extracted, then through Neighborhood Component Analysis, a feature selection method, 5 features including mean, standard deviation, kurtosis, energy, and entropy are selected. Six classification methods including K-nearest neighbors (KNN), Regression Tree, Classification Tree, Naive Bayes, Support vector machines Regression, and Ensemble Regression are employed. Besides, the lateral position and steering angle as a vehicle dynamic data were used to detect drowsiness, and the results were compared with classification result based on EEG data. Results: According to the results of classifying EEG data, classification tree and ensemble regression classifiers detected over 87.55% and 87.48% of drowsiness at the moderate level, respectively. Furthermore, the classification results demonstrate that if only the single-channel P4 is used, higher performance can achieve than using data of all the channels (C3, C4, P3, P4, O1, O2). Classification tree classifier and regression classifiers showed 91.31% and 91.12% performance with data from single-channel P4. The best classification results based on vehicle dynamic data were 75.11 through KNN classifier. Conclusion: According to this study, driver drowsiness could be detected at the moderate drowsiness level based on features extracted from a single-channel P4 data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to achieve the low-cost, light-weight and compact antenna array with wide bandwidth and low side lobe levels for synthetic aperture radar (SAR) applications in Ku frequency band. Design/methodology/approach: A compact design of a rectangular microstrip patch antenna array using multilayered dielectric structure is presented in Ku-band for advanced broadband SAR systems. In this design, stepped pins are used to connect the microstrip feed lines to the radiating patches. Findings: The simulation and fabrication results of the multilayered antenna and a 1×16-element linear array of the antenna with Taylor amplitude distribution in the feeding network are presented. The antenna element has a 10-dB impedance bandwidth of more than 26%, and the linear array shows reduction in bandwidth percentage (about 15.4%). Thanks to Taylor amplitude tapering, the side lobe level (SLL) of the array is lower than −24 dB. The maximum measured gains of the antenna element and the linear array are 7 and 19.2 dBi at the center frequency, respectively. Originality/value: In the communication systems, a high gain narrow beamwidth radiation pattern achieved by an array of multiple antenna elements with optimized spacing is a solution to overcome the path loss, atmospheric loss, polarization loss, etc. Also, wideband characteristics and compact size are desirable in satellite and SAR systems. This paper provides the combination of these features by microstrip structures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cerebellum has been shown to be engaged in tasks other than motor control, including cognitive and affective functions. Prior neuroimaging studies have documented the role of this area in social cognition and despite these findings, no studies have yet examined the causal relationship between the cerebellum and social cognition. This study aimed to investigate the role of the cerebellum in empathy and theory of mind (ToM) in a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, parallel study. 32 healthy participants were assigned to either a sham or active group. For the active group, an intermittent theta-burst stimulation (iTBS) protocol at 100% of the motor threshold was applied to the cerebellum, while the control group received sham stimulation. An eyes-closed EEG session, the Empathy Quotient (EQ) test, and the Reading the Mind in the Eyes Test (RMET) were administered before and after the iTBS session. The results demonstrated differences in cognitive empathy, ToM, and a decrease in the activity of the default mode network (DMN) between the active and sham groups in females. Females also showed a decrease in the activity of the affective empathy network and connectivity in the DMN. We conclude that cognitive empathy and ToM are associated with cerebellar activity, and due to sex-related differences in the cortical organization of this area which is modulated by sex hormones, the stimulation of the cerebellum in males and females yields different results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents an innovative adaptive fractional-order (FO) terminal sliding mode (TSM) controller designed for a 5-degree-of-freedom (5-DOF) upper-limb exoskeleton robot. The primary focus is on addressing the challenges posed by nonlinearities and uncertainties in parameter values. The proposed approach integrates several key elements, including a novel fractional-order non-singular terminal sliding mode (FONSTSM) surface, an exponential reaching law, and the utilization of the extreme learning machine (ELM). This comprehensive strategy guarantees not only finite-time convergence but also robust stability, effectively alleviating the well-known chattering phenomenon. Furthermore, it successfully overcomes the singularity issues typically observed in conventional TSM controllers. The incorporation of the ELM with rectified linear unit (ReLU) activation function enhances robustness by facilitating the estimation of parameters related to the exponential control law. Numerical simulations provide compelling evidence of improved tracking, increased robustness against uncertainties, achievement of finite-time convergence, and notable reductions in control signal oscillations and singularity problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The most important features of microstrip antenna are low cost, low profile, and light weight. But the patch antenna usually has narrow bandwidth. In this paper, for overcoming the mentioned problem, a new approach to obtain a wider bandwidth is proposed. For this purpose, stacked patch above the main patch is used. The design and fabrication method of the proposed antenna is described carefully. Then, a compact microstrip fed line linear array antenna with Taylor amplitude distribution in the feeding network is designed. The measured results show the 10-dB impedance bandwidth of about 23% for the single element and 20% for the linear array. Moreover, the measured side lobe level (SLL) of the array is lower than −21 dB. The results for the simulations and experiments are in a good agreement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multiple sclerosis patients often experience various symptoms that can greatly impact their quality of life. There are various brain stimulation techniques that have been evaluated for their ability to reduce the symptoms of multiple sclerosis. However, there is inconsistency in the specific stimulation methods used and the symptoms targeted in the existing research. This umbrella review conducted in order to evaluate the effectiveness of brain stimulation and identify limitations and gaps for further research. In this umbrella review, we conducted a searched on Web of Knowledge, PubMed, and Scopus database. We specifically looked for reviews, with or without meta-analyses, that have investigated the effects of brain stimulation methods on symptoms of multiple sclerosis. All articles were examined by AMSTAR 2 (A Measure Tool to Assess Systematic Review 2). We identified 155 articles, of which 14 were eligible for inclusion. Of those, five were qualitative studies and nine were meta-analyses. Among the included studies, four examined the use of deep brain stimulation, while ten investigated the therapeutic potential of noninvasive brain stimulation. Considering the heterogeneity of studies, the current evidence suggests that repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation may be effective in treating pain and improving motor function, while transcranial direct current stimulation may be useful in alleviating fatigue and enhancing certain aspects of cognitive performance. Deep brain stimulation, on the other hand, appears to be effective in reducing tremors. However, further research is warranted to validate these findings and address the existing limitations in the field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) occurs if the kidneys suddenly lose their ability to remove waste products. When the kidneys lose their ability to filter, dangerous levels of waste products can accumulate, which can upset the chemical composition of the blood and urine. Chemotherapy is one of the methods used to treat or temporarily reduce cancer by using certain medications. The main task of this treatment is to kill cancer cells without seriously damaging the surrounding tissues. However, this type of treatment also has destructive effects on healthy cells and tissues in the body. Researchers studying cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy found that people undergoing this type of treatment may develop serious kidney problems and be forced to use treatments such as dialysis and kidney transplants. Research showed that people with more severe cancers and advanced tumors are more likely to have acute kidney injury than those with early-stage cancer. AKI biomarkers can be selected from the patient's serum, urine, or body imaging components. Various studies showed that urine is a source of the best markers in AKI. Biomarkers in plasma and urine, such as N-acetyl-ß-glucosaminidase, Cystatin-C, ß2-microglobulin, Cysteine-Rich Protein, Osteopontin, Fetuin-A, Kidney Injury Molecule-1, Livertype fatty acid-binding protein, Netrin-1, Neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin, and interleukin-18 are effective tools for early detection of AKI. In this review study, an attempt was made to collect biomarkers related to AKI disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) is a noninvasive brain stimulation tool appropriate to modulate cortical oscillations and activity via the application of weak currents. The major goal of this study was to investigate the effects of medial Prefrontal Cortex (mPFC) stimulation on sustained attention task performance measured by Rapid Visual Information Processing (RVIP) task and the brain networks assumed to be critical to sustained attention. mPFC has been shown to be involved in sustained attention performance and as a main hub in default mode network (DMN). mPFC activity modulation via theta tACS was implemented in this study. This was a single blind study with 21 participants receiving active and sham stimulation with the electrodes on FPz and the Inion. tACS was able to impact different RVIP measures (total hits, A' (sensitivity to target), total correct rejection, etc.). Relative power spectrum density (PSD) analysis yielded significant increases in theta frequency mostly in the fronto-central regions after active tACS and current source density (CSD) analysis yielded significant power modulations in theta frequency band in post-central gyrus. Furthermore, phase locking value (PLV) analysis showed that there were significant changes in cortical connections in the Dorsal Attention Network (DAN) in alpha frequency band. This study showed that theta frequency tACS over mPFC, was able to produce significant modulations in an RVIP task and its associated brain networks in healthy participants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: A most widely used tool for measuring the workload is the NASA-task load index (TLX) questionnaire, in which various studies have reported numerous problems. The present study aimed to improve the NSAS-TLX mental workload questionnaire using the fuzzy linguistic variables instead of the virtual rating scale, and multicriteria decision-making Fuzzy Best-Worst method (FBWM) instead of pair-wise comparison. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was carried out among students of Shiraz University of Medical Sciences. In order to compare the traditional NASA-TLX and FBWM NASA-TLX questionnaire, participants performed a standard N-Back task with three low, medium, and high workload, subsequently, they completed the two questionnaires. Finally, results were examined using the researcher-made software and SPSS 16. Results: With regard to the reaction time to response the N-Back test, the mean of correct responses were 107.43 and 85.86 responses at levels 1 and 3, respectively. The mean score of the subscales and the final score in the two questionnaires at different levels of the N-Back test were independent as follows: the two questionnaires had a significant difference on mental demand at level 3 with a mean (standard deviation [SD]) of 18.09 (6.39) in the FBWM-NASA-TLX questionnaire and mean (SD) of 22.64 (8.15) in the NASA-TLX questionnaire (P < 0.05). Conclusion: In this study, the FBWM-NASA-TLX questionnaire was designed and studied with regard to the problems and limitations of the NASA-TLX questionnaire. Results of this study showed that the FBWM-NASA-TLX questionnaire can estimate more realistic scores and decisions of workload in the studied task. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is believed that α-adrenoceptors have critical contribution in the process of pain information. Anterior cingulate of cortex (ACC) is a key area of brain associated with pain perception. Pharmacological studies demonstrated that crocin, as a potent antioxidant, has analgesic effects. The underlying analgesic mechanism of the crocin is far from clear. Therefore, the present study was design to examine the interaction of anti-nociceptive effects of crocin with α1- and α2-adrenoceptors of ACC in chronic constriction injury (CCI) model of neuropathic pain. Intra-ACC injection of crocin significantly decreased cold allodynia (using acetone test) and anxiety (using elevated plus maze test) in neuropathic rats from 2 days to 6 days' post-surgery. Co-injection of crocin and prazosin (α1-adrenoceptors antagonist, 30 μg/5μl) had no effect on the allodynia. However, co-injection of crocin and yohimbine (α2-adrenoceptors antagonist, 30 μg/5μl) significantly increased the allodynia on days 4 and 6 post-surgery as compared with CCI+crocin rats. Moreover, our data identified that neuropathy decreased open arm entries and locomotor activity. Additionally, crocin increased entries to open arms; but this increase was not significant as compared to CCI group. There was no significant difference between CCI+Crocin and CCI+crocin+prazosin groups. However, co-injection of crocin and yohimbine significantly decreased entries to open arms as compared with CCI+crocin group. Furthermore, co-injection of crocin with prazosin or yohimbine did not cause significant changes in locomotor activity. The present study suggested that the anti-nociceptive and anxiolytic effects of crocin appear to be mediated through α2-, and not α1-adrenoceptors in the ACC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Activity changes were observed in DAN after theta and alpha TMS. • Theta TMS decreased lagged nonlinear connectivity (LNC) between left FEF and SPL. • Alpha TMS increased lagged nonlinear connectivity in theta between RDLPFC and IPL. • Alpha TMS resulted in higher LNC between left aPFC and left DLPFC and total hits. Dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) is a key structure in dorsal attention network (DAN) that facilitates sustained attention by modulating activity in task related and unrelated regions of the brain. Alpha and theta frequency bands enhance connectivity among different parts of the attention network and these connections are facilitated by long-range nonlinear connectivity in theta and alpha frequency bands. This study is an investigation of the behavioral and electrophysiological effects of alpha and theta frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) over RDLPFC. 20 healthy participants were randomly assigned to two groups of theta (n = 11, f = 6 Hz) and alpha (n = 9, f = 10 Hz) rTMS. Electroencephalogram (EEG) was recorded before and after each session while resting and performing tasks. Current source density (CSD) and functional connectivity (FC) in DAN and default mode network (DMN) and their correlations with rapid visual information processing task (RVIP) scores were calculated. Alpha frequency rTMS resulted in significant changes in RVIP scores. Active theta rTMS caused an increase in CSD in Postcentral gyrus and active alpha rTMS resulted in significant CSD changes in inferior parietal lobule (IPL). Theta lagged nonlinear connectivity was mudulated by alpha rTMSand FC changes were observed in DAN and DMN. Positive correlations were observed between DAN regions and RVIP scores in the alpha rTMS group. Increased activity in theta frequency band in left aPFC and left DLPFC correlated positively with higher total hits in RVIP. This study showed for the first time that theta and alpha frequency rTMS are able to modulate FC in DAN and DMN in a way that results in better performance in a sustained attention task. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Application of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) for treating obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) has been promising and approved by the Food and Drug Administration in 2018, but effects differ between patients. Knowledge about clinical predictors of rTMS response may help to increase clinical efficacy but is not available so far. Methods: In a retrospective study, we investigated the efficacy of rTMS over the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) or supplementary motor area (SMA) in 65 pharmaco-resistant OCD outpatients recruited for rTMS treatment from July 2015 to May 2017. Patients received either SMA rTMS (n = 38) or bilateral DLPFC rTMS (n = 27) in case of reporting higher affective and depressive symptoms in addition to the primary OCD symptoms. OCD symptoms and depression/anxiety states were measured at baseline (before the 1st session) and after the 20th session of rTMS. Additionally, we performed a binary logistic regression analysis on the demographic and clinical variables based on the Yale-Brown Obsessive-Compulsive Scale (Y-BOCS) 3-factor and 2-factor models and individual items to investigate potential predictors of rTMS response. Results: Patients' scores in Y-BOCS and Beck anxiety/depression inventories were significantly decreased following rTMS treatment. 46.2% of all patients responded to rTMS, based on the criterion of at least a 30% reduction in Y-BOCS scores. There was no significant difference between response rates of patients in DLPFC and SMA groups. No significant demographic predictors of rTMS efficacy were identified. The factors "obsession severity", "resistance" and "disturbance" and the "interference due to obsessions" and "resistance against compulsions" items of the Y-BOCS significantly predicted response to rTMS. Conclusions: In patients with less intrusive/interfering thoughts, and low scores in the "obsession severity", "disturbance", and "resistance" factors, rTMS might have superior effects. Identifying clinical and non-clinical predictors of response is relevant to personalize and adapt rTMS protocols in pharmaco-resistant OCD patients. Interpretation of rTMS efficacy should be done with caution due to the lack of a sham intervention condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is prevalent in children, adolescents and adults. It can occur alone or in comorbidity with other disorders. A broad range of psychotherapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and eye movement desensitization reprocessing (EMDR) have been developed for the treatment of PTSD. The aim of this study was to compare the effectiveness of eye movement desensitization reprocessing and cognitive behavioral therapy in reducing post-traumatic stress disorder. PARTICIPANTS AND PROCEDURE The population of this investigation was composed of 450 veterans of holy war who referred to military health services. The study sample contained 225 veterans who were randomly selected and asked to complete the Mississippi Post Traumatic Stress Disorder Questionnaire. From 80 respondents who achieved above the minimum score in the questionnaire, 40 persons were chosen randomly and assigned to two experimental groups and one control group. Subjects in the experimental group received eight sessions of CBT training and 8 sessions of EMDR therapy. Post tests were taken from all participants after therapy sessions. Data were analyzed using ANCOVA in SPSS version 25. RESULTS Our findings indicated a significant difference between EMDR and CBT groups in term of average PTSD. We also found a significant difference in terms of average PTSD between the control group and CBT as well as EMDR groups. CONCLUSIONS The results of the present study indicated that the eye movement desensitization reprocessing method and cognitive behavioral therapy are effective in reducing post-traumatic stress disorder. We also found that EMDR is more effective than CBT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• COMETS2, a MATLAB based toolbox was used to simulate the magnitude of the current density and electric field. • Results showed that it is possible to target the insula and its subregions via tDCS. • Frontal and occipital regions were found to be optimal candidate regions. • The temporal lobes received higher levels of average current density in the optimum montages. Insula is considered an important region of the brain in the generation and maintenance of a wide range of psychiatric symptoms, possibly due to being key in fundamental functions such as interoception and cognition in general. Investigating the possibility of targeting this area using non-invasive brain stimulation techniques can open new possibilities to probe the normal and abnormal functioning of the brain and potentially new treatment protocols to alleviate symptoms of different psychiatric disorders. In the current study, COMETS2, a MATLAB based toolbox was used to simulate the magnitude of the current density and electric field in the brain caused by different transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) protocols to find an optimum montage to target the insula and its 6 subregions for three different current intensities, namely 2, 3, and 4 mA. Frontal and occipital regions were found to be optimal candidate regions.. The results of the current study showed that it is viable to reach the insula and its individual subregions using tDCS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Previous studies have reported impaired performance, sleepiness and sleep deprivation among night workers. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of color screen Light Filtering software on cognitive performance, alertness and sleep quality among night shift operators of a medical emergency operations center. Methods: This field trial interventional study was carried out among 30 nightshift operators of shiraz emergency control center. The baseline assessments were carried out under the existing computer screen light conditions in the week preceding the installation of f.lux software. The same measurements were repeated again 4 weeks after installing the software. The cognitive performance of the participants was measured using continuous performance test (CPT) and n-back, while their sleep quality was assessed through Pietersburg Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). Further, to assess their subjective and objective alertness, Stanford sleepiness index and go/nogo test were used, respectively. Results: The results of this study showed that Screen Light Filtering software significantly increased subjective (P<0.001) and objective alertness (P<0.05). Additionally, the performance of the working memory (P=0.008) and sleep quality (P=0.008) improved significantly after the intervention. Conclusion: The results revealed that using Screen Light Filtering software is an effective and low-cost method to improve sleep quality and cognitive performance since it filters the short wavelength part of the spectrum and helps body adaptation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, an extension to the multiwinding BCTRAN model is proposed for the study of low-frequency saturating transients in single-phase transformers. The conventional experimentally obtained BCTRAN (winding leakage) susceptance matrix is retrofitted with a previously missing experimentally obtained nonlinear (core magnetizing) model. The assembled model gives accurate results for transients in all terminals. The model parameters can be acquired from information available in the nameplate plus terminal tests without the need of detailed transformer design or construction information. Only needed are standard no-load and impedance tests plus a newly introduced saturation test. Very simple formulas are proposed to compute the parameters. Illustrative examples on how the parameters are computed are given for three transformers rated 1.8, 5, and 75 kVA. For model validation, laboratory inrush currents tests are carried out and compared with simulations using the EMTP-RV. The results show that the simulations and experimental results match very closely giving great confidence in the model correctness and parameter estimation method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study is to compare the effects of different light sources - namely light-emitting diode (LED), compact fluorescent (FLcomp) and fluorescent with warm color temperature (FLwarm) and cool color temperature (FLcool) - on the performances, alertness, visual comfort level and preferences in a pilot study. A laboratory controlled experiment was conducted by focusing on 20 postgraduate students who volunteered to participate in a series of tests under four different light sources. "GO NO GO" task and Karolinska Sleepiness Scale (KSS) were employed to assess objective and subjective alertness, while modified OLS questionnaire was used to gauge comfort level and preferences. In addition, editing and typing tasks were carried out as a performance evaluation. Significant increase was observed in subjective and objective alertness level under FLcool condition and LED in comparison to FLwarm and FLcomp (p < 0.05). In terms of typing performances, respondents performed significantly better with regard to typing speed under FLcool than FLwarm and FLcomp. The lowest number of typing errors was made under FLcool, followed by LED, FLcomp and FLwarm. LED was the most preferred (p=0.001) and most comfortable (p=0.011) lighting condition. The study concludes that the FLcool and LED were more beneficial for alertness level and performance for both computer-based and paper-based activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: A two-shift work schedule with different rotations is common among firefighters in Iranian petrochemical companies. This study compared salivary melatonin and sleepiness on the last night before turning to day shift at 19:00, 23:00, 3:00, and 7:00 among petrochemical firefighters (PFFs) working seven and four consecutive night shifts. Methods: Sixty four PFFs working in the petrochemical industry were selected. To measure melatonin, saliva samples were taken, whereas the KSS index was used to assess sleepiness. Chi-square and independent samples t-test were carried out to analyze the data, and generalized linear model (GLM) was employed to determine the effect of confounding factors such as lighting and caffeine. Results: The levels of melatonin at 3:00 and 7:00, and the overall changes during the shift in the two shift patterns under the study were different (P < 0.05). Sleepiness was significantly different only at 3:00 in the two studied shift patterns, while the effects of lighting and caffeine on melatonin changes were not significant (P > 0.05). Conclusion: It seems that a slow shift rotation is better because it reduces the secretion of melatonin (hence reducing sleepiness during the night) and changes the peak of melatonin secretion to the daytime, which is a sign of adaptation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective Previous studies investigated predictors of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) response in depressive disorders but there is still limited knowledge about clinical predictors. Moreover, predictors of rTMS response in bipolar depression (BDD) are less studied than unipolar depression (UDD). Methods We performed a binary logistic regression analysis in 248 patients with depressive disorders (unipolar N = 102, bipolar N = 146) who received 20 sessions of DLPFC rTMS (High-frequency rTMS, low-frequency rTMS, bilateral rTMS) to investigate significant clinical and demographic predictors of rTMS response. We also investigated effects of depression type, response (yes, no) and time on reducing somatic and cognitive-affective symptoms of patients. Results Depression type (unipolar vs. bipolar) did not have a significant effect on rTMS response. 45% of all patients, 51.5% of UDD patients and 41% of BDD patients, responded to rTMS treatment. Age was the only significant demographic predictor of treatment response in all patients. Cognitive-affective symptoms, compared to somatic symptoms were significant predictors for treatment response to rTMS. Common and unique clinical predictor for UDD and BDD were identified. Conclusions Younger patients and those with cognitive-affective rather than somatic symptoms benefit more from DLPFC rTMS treatment. rTMS is effective in UDD and BDD patients. Patients should be selected based on clinical and demographic profile. Significance Findings are based on the largest thus far reported sample of patients with depressive disorders that received DLPFC rTMS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a novel method is proposed for the estimation of the design parameters of single-phase distribution transformers using data acquired from terminal measurements along with nameplate data and external tank dimensions. Transformer parameters that can be measured from terminals, for example, leakage inductance, saturation inductance, and winding resistance, are considered first. These parameters are analytically correlated with the geometrical information of the transformer structure. A system of nonlinear equations is derived accordingly. Winding dimensions and the number of turns are computed with acceptable engineering accuracy. The core dimensions (including its cross-sectional area) are calculated using winding information. The obtained data can be utilized to develop white- or gray-box models to be used in the investigation of the thermal and/or electromagnetic behavior of power transformers as presented in several research studies published to date. Examples on laboratory and utility-grade transformers are shown for illustration and validation of the proposed design parameter estimation method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cellular networks provide widespread and reliable voice communications among subscribers through mobile voice channels. These channels benefit from superior priority and higher availability compared with conventional cellular data communication services, such as General Packet Radio Service, Enhanced Data Rates for GSM Evolution, and High-Speed Downlink Packet Access. These properties are of major interest to applications that require transmitting small volumes of data urgently and reliably, such as an emergency call in vehicular applications. This encourages excessive research to make digital communication through voice channels feasible, leading to the emergence of Data over Voice (DoV) technology. In this research, we investigate the challenges of transmitting data through mobile voice channels. We introduce a simplified information-theoretic model of the vocoder channel and derive bounds on its capacity. By invoking detection theory concepts and conjecturing Weibull and chi-square distributions for approximately modeling the probability distribution of channel output, we propose improved detection schemes based on the mentioned distributions and compare the achieved performances with the calculated bounds and other state-of-the-art DoV structures. Moreover, in common mobile networks, the vocoder compression rate is adopted in accordance with the network traffic adaptively. Although this phenomenon affects the overall capacity significantly, it has been overlooked by previous research studies. In this research, we apply the Gilbert–Elliott (GE) model to the voice channel, extract the required model parameters from the Markov model, and bound the overall voice channel capacity by considering the adaptive rate adjustment phenomenon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) has been demonstrated to have efficacy in the treatment of unipolar depression but limited research has explored the efficacy of rTMS in bipolar depression. Therefore, we conducted a comparative clinical trial evaluating clinical responses to prefrontal bilateral and unilateral rTMS in patients suffering from bipolar depression. We hypothesized that, 1) the response to the treatment would be associated with a decrease in the frequency of beta waves, 2) bilateral stimulation of the cortex would bring about more extensive changes in brain activity than unilateral stimulation, and 3) bilateral stimulation is more effective than unilateral. Thirty patients with bipolar depression were divided into two groups. Bilateral Group (n=15) who received rTMS in the left DLPFC (10 Hz) and right DLPFC (1-Hz), and unilateral group (n=15) who received the stimulation only in the right DLPFC (1-Hz) during 20 treatment sessions. The proportion of responders in the bilateral stimulation group was significantly higher than that in the unilateral group [80% versus 47%]. The remission rate was 40% in the bilateral group and 40% in the unilateral group (not significant). In the responders to bilateral rTMS treatment, a significant reduction of alpha1–2, beta 1–3, and gamma frequencies were observed in medial and superior frontal and cingulate gyrus . Responders to the unilateral treatment showed decrease of gamma frequency in postcentral gyrus, precuneus, superior and inferior parietal lobule, Cuneus and angular gyrus. In conclusion, we found that bilateral stimulation was more effective than the unilateral stimulation and evidence that beta frequency activity could possibly be used as a marker for response to rTMS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Shift work is associated with both sleepiness and reduced performance. The aim of this study was to examine cognitive performance, sleepiness, and sleep quality among petrochemical control room shift workers. Sixty shift workers participated in this study. Cognitive performance was evaluated using a number of objective tests, including continuous performance test, n-back test, and simple reaction time test; sleepiness was measured using the subjective Karolinska Sleepiness Scale (KSS); and sleep quality was assessed using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) questionnaire. ANCOVA, t-test, and repeated- measures ANOVA were applied for statistical analyses, and the significance level was set at p < 0.05. All variables related to cognitive performance, except for omission error, significantly decreased at the end of both day and night shifts (p < 0.0001). There were also significant differences between the day and night shifts in terms of the variables of omission error (p < 0.027) and commission error (p < 0.036). A significant difference was also observed between daily and nightly trends of sleepiness (p < 0.0001) so that sleepiness was higher for the night shift. Participants had low sleep quality on both day and night shifts, and there were significant differences between the day and night shifts in terms of subjective sleep quality and quantity (p < 0.01). Long working hours per shift result in fatigue, irregularities in the circadian rhythm and the cycle of sleep, induced cognitive performance decline at the end of both day and night shifts, and increased sleepiness in night shift. It, thus, seems necessary to take ergonomic measures such as planning for more appropriate shift work and reducing working hours. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Key Clinical Message: We report a 20‐year‐old man with neurofibromatosis type 1 presenting with frequent episodes of suprapubic pain. The episodes started 6 months ago, occurred 1 h a day, and were not related to urination. A prostate‐sparing cystectomy with orthotopic diversion was performed. Histopathological assessment of the specimen confirmed bladder plexiform neurofibromatosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes a local polynomial model tree (LPMT) learning technique for prediction and identification of nonlinear systems and processes. The proposed LPMT learning algorithm is applied to a local polynomial neuro fuzzy (LPNF) model, which includes local polynomial models (LPMs), as Taylor series expansion of any unknown function. . The LPMT algorithm is established based on the concept of hierarchical binary tree and heuristically partitions the input space into smaller subdomains through axis-orthogonal splits. The proposed learning algorithm starts from a single local polynomial model and then refines the LPNF model by increasing the degree of the worstperforming LPM or by further partitioning of the input space. During the learning procedure, the validity functions automatically form a partition of unity and therefore normalization side effects, e.g. reactivation and poor extrapolation performance, are prevented. The LPNF model, trained by the proposed LPMT algorithm, is used for prediction and identification of the nonlinear processes and systems in three case studies. The obtained results and comparisons to other methods revealed the promising performance of the proposed model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increased penetration of cellular networks has made voice channels widely available ubiquitously. On the other hand, mobile voice channels possess properties that make them an ideal choice for high priority, low-rate real-time communications. Mobile voice channel with the mentioned properties, could be utilised in emergency applications in vehicular communications area such as the standardised emergency call system planned to be launched in 2015. This study aims to investigate the challenges of data transmission through these channels and proposes an efficient data transfer structure. To this end, a proper statistical model for the channel distortion is proposed and an optimum detector is derived considering the proposed channel model. Optimum symbols are also designed according to the derived rule and analytical bounds on error probability are obtained for the orthogonal signaling and sphere packing techniques. Moreover, analytical evaluation is performed and appropriate simulation results are presented. Finally, it is observed that the proposed structure based on the sphere packing technique achieves superior performance compared with prior works in this field. Although the ideas offered in this study are utilised to cope with voice channel non-idealities, the steps taken in this study could also be applied to channels with similar conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The problem of controlling a string of vehicles moving in one dimension is considered so that they all follow a lead vehicle with constant time headway spacing between successive vehicles. Due to realistic design and execution, the negative effect of the tracking lag parameter and time delay is taken into account. By applying an acceleration feedforward, the distance error of each vehicle will be independent of the behavior of other vehicles. As a result, the vehicle is better able to track a desired trajectory, which improves the string stability. Cluster treatment of characteristic roots (CTCR) paradigm is utilized to reveal the stabilizing parametric regions in the domain of the time delay to render the stability of closed loop system. The string stability analysis is performed to evaluate the disturbance attenuation. Finally, an example of multiple vehicle platoon control is presented, which demonstrates the effectiveness of the proposed method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT In this project, a pattern reconfigurable simple two patch array antenna has been designed and implemented to operate at a fixed frequency of 2.4 GHz for beam scanning purpose. Proposed antenna operates at three different modes in which the radiation pattern steers 0°, ±30° with respect to the antenna broadside. In this article, a different approach has been taken to implement the reconfigurable antenna which is very simple and cost effective compared to previous works. For this, a SP3 RF switch is used to steer the radiation pattern by applying phase difference between the two antenna elements. A reconfigurable patch array is designed on a Rogers 5880 RT/DUROID substrate in which antenna element is fed in inset configuration. Measured and simulated results are well matched but with some minor deviations. Designed antenna array has a gain of 9 dBi in broadside and the gain drops to 7.5 dB when the beam is rotated by either ±30°. Pattern reconfigurable antenna can be used in wireless communication systems, where antenna pattern needs to be aligned with strongest signal sources or when the antenna needs to be kept away from noisy environments or interfering signals. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 56:2377-2381, 2014 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The electric power steering (EPS) system was developed and the steer-by-wire (SBW) system achieves the purposes of EPS. The advantages of SBW are packaging flexibility, advanced vehicle control system, and superior performance. No mechanical linkage exists between the steering gear and steering column in the SBW system. The steering wheel and front-wheel steering can be controlled independently. The SBW system consists of two motors controlled by an electronic control unit (ECU). One motor is in the steering wheel and develops the steering feel of the driver and the other motor is in the steering linkage and improves vehicle maneuverability and stability. Moreover, the active front steering (AFS) system can be added to the SBW system. AFS reduces the difference between actual and estimated vehicle yaw rate. Up-to-date information from the steering wheel enables drivers to identify road conditions through the tire force, which should be fed back to the steering wheel. Furthermore, several control algorithms related to the vehicle and motor can be used together through the self-aligning torque, which is fed back to the steering wheel. This study proposes a method to control the vehicle yaw rate through an SBW system. This control method is based on a PID control method for the steering-wheel-motor controller, as well as on a sliding mode control (SMC) method for the front-wheel-motor controller and yaw stability controller. The SBW system is modeled using a bond graph method. Results imply that the controllers are robust enough when in contact with nonlinear properties of tire and road conditions. This study is expected to guide further research on the SBW system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Optimization of gear ratio with the objectives of fuel consumption reduction and vehicle longitudinal performance improvement has been the subject of many studies for years. Finding a strategy for changing gears with specific control objectives, especially in the design of vehicles equipped with Continuously Variable Transition system (CVT), which has advantage of arbitrary selection of gear ratio, has been the aim of some recent researches. Optimal control theory has rarely been used in the previous control approaches applied to such systems due to the limitations in the use of fast computational systems. The aim of this study is to design the aforementioned gear ratio change strategy and related control rules on the basis of optimal control. A driver model is also designed for the simulation of driving cycle usingMATLAB Inulin Toolbar. Results of implementing optimal control rules in vehicle longitudinal movement simulation with the aim of fuel consumption reduction are finally represented. The presented method has the remarkable advantage of considerable fuel consumption reduction in comparison to other proposed approaches for gear ratio change strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The problem of controlling a string of vehicles moving in one dimension is considered so that they all follow a lead vehicle with constant spacing between successive vehicles. Due to practical design and implementation, the negative effect of the tracking lag parameter is taken into account. A hierarchical platoon controller design framework is established comprising a feedback linearization controller at the first layer and a decentralized bidirectional control controller at the second layer. The stability criterion is examined by using a partial differential equation approximation in the limit of the number of vehicles subjected to unequal asymmetry in position and velocity feedback. For disturbance attenuation, string stability analysis is also examined. At the end of the paper, simulations are given to show the efficiency of the proposed results. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The article discusses renewal of Islamic civilisation and two principles or axes of faith of Islam which is the Qur'an and the Divine and the Prophet and the human. Topics include prophetic role model, consequences of ignorance of prophetic mission, and experiencing spiritual transformation and Divine revelation within oneself.

This paper introduces an innovative frequency estimation approach that relies on a new and innovative structure for Kalman Filter (KF) in signal processing. Kalman Filtering, because of its state estimating nature, excels other methods in real-time processing. However, the main drawback of Kalman Filtering is that it involves time-consuming matrix operations which makes it inferior to faster methods like fast Fourier transform (FFT). The most evident privilege of the new structure is that it 'synthesizes' the components rather than 'extracts' them as standard Kalman Filter does. This parallel synthesis of signal components reduces the computational order of the Kalman Filter dramatically. In addition, in the proposed parallel structure, each component can be controlled separately by adjusting its own parameters. Hence, the convergence time and signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) can be improved. This capability surpasses the proposed structure to both KF and FFT. Equations needed for these adjustments are derived analytically and by simulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: This paper is a result of a research with the primary purpose of extending Probabilistic Risk Assessment (PRA) modeling frameworks to include the effects of organizational factors as the deeper, more fundamental causes of accidents and incidents. There have been significant improvements in the sophistication of quantitative methods of safety and risk assessment, but the progress on techniques most suitable for organizational safety risk frameworks has been limited. The focus of this paper is on the choice of “representational schemes” and “techniques.” A methodology for selecting appropriate candidate techniques and their integration in the form of a “hybrid” approach is proposed. Then an example is given through an integration of System Dynamics (SD), Bayesian Belief Network (BBN), Event Sequence Diagram (ESD), and Fault Tree (FT) in order to demonstrate the feasibility and value of hybrid techniques. The proposed hybrid approach integrates deterministic and probabilistic modeling perspectives, and provides a flexible risk management tool for complex socio-technical systems. An application of the hybrid technique is provided in the aviation safety domain, focusing on airline maintenance systems. The example demonstrates how the hybrid method can be used to analyze the dynamic effects of organizational factors on system risk. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The fixed replacement of a single posterior missing tooth for those patients who cannot have either implants or conventional laboratory-generated fixed prostheses has always been a challenge to clinicians. The development of fiber-reinforced composites (FRCs) has opened up new possibilities of chairside treatment options to manage these types of clinical situations. Techniques using FRCs as frameworks with traditional restorative resin composites as veneering materials can provide chairside fixed prostheses that are esthetic and potentially durable, with minimal abutment tooth loss. A clinical case is presented that will illustrate a novel concept for tooth replacement--the use of an FRC prefabricated framework--to allow for a single visit, chairside replacement of a missing molar. The assembly of the framework and the clinical steps used in the framework placement and pontic fabrication are shown in detail. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE The combination of FRC technology and adhesive techniques can provide minimally invasive and cost-effective treatment options for the chairside replacement of missing posterior teeth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Presents a study which proposed a novel driver-assist stability system for all-wheel-drive electric vehicles. Control system design; Information on the Fuzzy logic system of the driver-assist stability system; Conclusion.

This article begins with an overview of the process within which the concept ma‘rifa emerged as an expression of the specific kind of knowledge proper to the Sufi discipline. This sapiential perspective came largely to be defined, within Sufism, in relation to the lower perspectives that it was deemed to transcend: ‘ilm, in the sense of formal discursive knowledge; ascetic worship (zuhd/‘ibāda) according to the perspective of fear (makhāfa); the perspective of love (mahabba); and perspectives based exclusively upon mystical states (ahwāl) and miraculous phenomena (karāmāt). [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Investigates the slip control of a vehicle through controlling the angle of the throttle valve. System dynamics used for simulation; Control objectives; Design of controller.

Introduction: The obsessive-compulsive disorder is one of the most severe and disabling psychiatric disorders that often causes waste of time and significant problems to the normal process of life, job performance, social activities and personal relationships. This study was conducted aimed at investigating the role of parenting styles and tolerance of ambiguity in predicting obsessive-compulsive disorder symptoms in university students. Materials and Methods: This study uses a descriptive correlational method. The statistical population included all students of the Islamic Azad University of Ardabil amounting to almost 13000 individuals. This cross-sectional study was conducted on 100 students of the Islamic Azad University who had obsessivecompulsive symptoms and were selected by the multi-stage random sampling. In collecting the data, the Maudsley obsessivecompulsive inventory, parenting styles, tolerance of ambiguity and Brunswick questionnaire were used. The data were analyzed using the Pearson's correlation coefficient and the multiple regression method. Results: The results showed that obsession had a significant negative correlation with the tolerance of ambiguity and a significant positive correlation with the domineering parenting style. The results of the analysis also showed that domineering parenting practices predict obsession in students. Conclusion: From the study results, it is concluded that parents' parenting styles, tolerance for ambiguity and the signs of obsessive attention to factors affecting these variables can help people improve their health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neuropsychiatric disorders including generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), major depressive disorder (MDD), bipolar disorder (BD), and schizophrenia (SZ) have been considered distinct categories of diseases despite their overlapping characteristics and symptomatology. We aimed to provide an in-depth review elucidating the role of glutamate/Glx and white matter (WM) abnormalities in these disorders from a transdiagnostic perspective. The PubMed online database was searched for studies published between 2010 and 2021. After careful screening, 401 studies were included. The findings point to decreased levels of glutamate in the Anterior Cingulate Cortex in both SZ and BD, whereas Glx is elevated in the Hippocampus in SZ and MDD. With regard to WM abnormalities, the Corpus Callosum and superior Longitudinal Fascicle were the most consistently identified brain regions showing decreased fractional anisotropy (FA) across all the reviewed disorders, except GAD. Additionally, the Uncinate Fasciculus displayed decreased FA in all disorders, except OCD. Decreased FA was also found in the inferior Longitudinal Fasciculus, inferior Fronto-Occipital Fasciculus, Thalamic Radiation, and Corona Radiata in SZ, BD, and MDD. Decreased FA in the Fornix and Corticospinal Tract were found in BD and SZ patients. The Cingulum and Anterior Limb of Internal Capsule exhibited decreased FA in MDD and SZ patients. The results suggest a gradual increase in severity from GAD to SZ defined by the number of brain regions with WM abnormality which may be partially caused by abnormal glutamate levels. WM damage could thus be considered a potential marker of some of the main neuropsychiatric disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The aim of this research is study of theta burst stimulation on left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex in remission of negative symptoms in patients with schizophrenia. Materials and Methods: In a placebo, double blind and randomized study, 10 patients with schizophrenia assigned in experimental and control group. The experimental group received 20 sessions of TBS with 50 Hz frequency, but control group were treated just with sham coil. All the patients were appraised before, the 10th sessions and after the treatment. The treatment efficacy was calculated with ANOVA. Results: The results indicated that the experimental group had statistical difference to control group in negative symptoms (p>0.007) and social functioning (p>0.01). But there weren't any significant difference in quality of life and depression between two groups. Conclusion: Theta burst stimulation can be mentioned as an efficacious treatment for people with schizophrenia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The objective is to evaluate the prevalence of acute kidney injury (AKI) as an early complication of the percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) procedure. Materials and Methods: From May 2022 to October 2022, we conducted a retrospective study on patients undergoing PCNL procedures in two of the tertiary medical centers affiliated with Isfahan University of Medical Sciences. Patients' baseline characteristics, laboratory values, perioperative data, and stone features were documented. AKI was defined either as a ≥0.3 mg/dL increase in the serum creatinine level within 2 days, or a ≥1.5-fold increase in baseline serum creatinine level within 7 days after the operation. Laboratory values were measured 1 day before PCNL and daily thereafter until discharge. Patients were followed 1 week later to detect all of the possible cases of AKI. Results: The final analysis was performed on 347 individuals. AKI developed in 16 (4.61%) cases. The two groups were comparable regarding age (P = 0.887), gender (P = 0.566), and underlying comorbidities including diabetes mellitus (P = 0.577) and hypertension (P = 0.383). The mean body mass index (BMI) (P < 0.001) and both frequency and severity of hydronephrosis (P < 0.001) were significantly different. A higher mean PCNL duration (P < 0.001), period of hospitalization (P < 0.001), and blood loss volume (P < 0.001) were observed in those who developed AKI. Overall, 56.3% (9) of patients in the AKI group and 2.7% (9) in the non-AKI group required the establishment of more than one access tract, during the procedure (P < 0.001). A lower preoperative hemoglobin level was observed in the AKI group (P < 0.001). Those with AKI had significantly larger stones (3.08 ± 0.46 vs. 2.41 ± 0.23 cm, P < 0.001) and higher Hounsfield units (P < 0.001). In addition, in the AKI group, most of the calculi (81.3%, 13) were of staghorn type, whereas in the non-AKI group, calculi were most frequently located in the middle calyx (30.2%, 100), (P < 0.001). Conclusion: The prevalence of post-PCNL AKI is approximately 4.61%. The mean BMI, preoperative hemoglobin level, PCNL duration, intraoperative blood loss volume, and hospitalization period were significantly higher among patients who developed AKI. Those with AKI had significantly larger stones with higher Hounsfield units and more frequently of staghorn type. The two groups were not statistically different regarding age, gender, and presence of comorbidities (hypertension and diabetes mellitus). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Dietary intake of phytochemicals has been associated with a reduced risk of chronic diseases, but research on their relationship with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is limited. This case-control study aimed to investigate the association between a Dietary Phytochemical Index (DPI) and BPH risk in a Middle-Eastern population. Methods: The study recruited 112 BPH patients and 112 age-matched healthy controls (40–75 years) from Al-Zahra Hospital Clinic in Isfahan, Iran between 2021 and 2022. Dietary intake was assessed using a validated food-frequency questionnaire, and DPI was calculated as the ratio of energy intake from phytochemical-rich foods to total daily energy intake. Logistic regression analysis was performed, adjusting for potential confounders. Results: In the crude model, participants in the highest DPI tertile had a 70% lower odds of BPH compared to those in the lowest tertile (OR:0.3, 95% CI 0.15–0.61, P-trend = 0.001). After adjusting for confounders, this inverse association remained significant (OR:0.23, 95% CI 0.15–0.63, P-trend = 0.001). Participants with higher DPI consumed more whole grains (p = 0.02), nuts (p < 0.001), legumes (p = 0.02), fruits (p < 0.001), vegetables (p < 0.001), olives and oilve products (p = 0.02), and tomato and its products (p < 0.001) in their diet compared to the lowest tertile. However, red meat (p = 0.03) and refined grains (p < 0.001) were consumed in higher amounts in the lowest tertile compared to the highest DPI tertile. Conclusions: This study demonstrates a protective association between DPI and BPH risk in the Middle-Eastern population. Encouraging higher intake of phytochemical-rich foods may help reduce the risk of BPH, highlighting the relevance of nutritional science in promoting prostate health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is a non-pharmacological treatment for drug-resistant major depressive disorder (MDD) patients. Since the success rate of rTMS treatment is about 50%-55%, it is essential to predict the treatment outcome before starting based on electroencephalogram (EEG) signals, leading to identifying effective biomarkers and reducing the burden of health care centers. Methods: To this end, pretreatment EEG data with 19 channels in the resting state from 34 drug-resistant MDD patients were recorded. Then, all patients received 20 sessions of rTMS treatment, and a reduction of at least 50% in the total beck depression inventory (BDI-II) score before and after the rTMS treatment was defined as a reference. In the current study, effective brain connectivity features were determined by the direct directed transfer function (dDTF) method from patients' pretreatment EEG data in all frequency bands separately. Then, the brain functional connectivity patterns were modeled as graphs by the dDTF method and examined with the local graph theory indices, including degree, out-degree, in-degree, strength, outstrength, in-strength, and betweenness centrality. Results: The results indicated that the betweenness centrality index in the Fp2 node and the δ frequency band are the best biomarkers, with the highest area under the receiver operating characteristic curve value of 0.85 for predicting the rTMS treatment outcome in drug-resistant MDD patients. Conclusion: The proposed method investigated the significant biomarkers that can be used to predict the rTMS treatment outcome in drug-resistant MDD patients and help clinical decisions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]