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Abstract A novel approach for the synthesis of 1,3,4-oxa(thia)diazole aryl thioethers through a biocatalytic strategy has been introduced. By leveraging Myceliophthora thermophila laccase (Novozym 51003) as a catalyst, catechol undergoes oxidation to ortho-quinone, facilitating subsequent 1,4-thia-Michael addition reactions. The method offers efficiency and mild reaction conditions, demonstrating promise for sustainable synthesis pathways in organic chemistry. Using this approach, 13 new derivatives of 2,5-disubstituted-1,3,4-oxa(thia)diazole aryl thioethers, with a yield of 46–94%, were synthesized.

Purpose – Financial statement fraud has become a global concern, and auditors are increasingly focused on identifying and investigating it. Auditors may play a crucial role in investigating and reducing financial statement fraud, and this is particularly important in developing countries where fraudulent practices are more prevalent due to the lack of strict regulations and oversight. This study investigates whether enhanced audit quality has an impact on reducing financial statement fraud. The primary aim is to recognize whether a higher level of audit quality relates with a decrease in fraudulent activities in Indonesia, which is one such country that has not yet adopted IFRS. Design/methodology/approach – This study investigates the effect of audit quality, as measured by audit tenure, audit fee, and audit size, on the dependent variable of financial statement fraud, as indicated by Dechow F-value. The sample for this study comprises 951 observations from 2015 to 2020, and the research design utilizes a panel data approach. To test the main hypothesis, OLS, and GMM estimation techniques are employed. Findings – The analyses reveal a negative relationship between audit tenure and financial statement fraud. This suggests that shorter audit tenure may be associated with an increased risk of financial statement fraud. This heightened risk could stem from auditors having limited time to thoroughly understand the company's operations and internal controls, potentially making it more challenging to detect and prevent fraudulent activities perpetrated by the client. Conversely, a positive relationship is identified between audit fees and financial statement fraud, suggesting that companies paying higher fees may be engaging auditors less adept at detecting fraudulent activities. Furthermore, a negative relationship is observed between Big-5 and financial statement fraud, which may be due to the greater resources, expertise, quality control, scrutiny, reputation, and ethical conduct of Big-5 audit companies. Research limitations/implications – This study only focused on listed companies in Indonesia, therefore, caution should be exercised when generalizing the findings to other developing and Muslim countries such as Malaysia. The findings may differ due to the adoption of IFRS in Malaysia. As such, it is important for future studies to include Malaysia as a sample and compare the results with those of Indonesia. This comparison would demonstrate the impact of IFRS adoption on the relationship between audit quality and financial statement fraud and provide insights for policy makers in Indonesia. Practical implications – The findings of this study have important implications for developing countries that have been shown to be more susceptible to fraud than developed countries. This study contributes to the existing research on the role of audit quality in reducing financial statement fraud and emphasizes the need for auditors and accountants to take a proactive approach in detecting and investigating financial fraud. Originality/value – This study is a new study because it investigates the relationship between audit quality and financial statement fraud in Indonesia, a developing Muslim country that has not yet adopted International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS). The study provides valuable evidence on the unique factors that influence fraud in Indonesia and fills a gap in the literature as previous studies on this topic have largely focused on developed countries. Additionally, the study recommends that policymakers in Indonesia consider implementing IFRS to improve the reliability of financial reporting and strengthen the effectiveness of the auditing process, thus reducing the incidence of fraud.

While it is crucial to consider the ecological trade-offs of cover crop effects to promote sustainable agricultural production, there has been limited analysis of the combined effects of cover crops on various ecosystem services. For this purpose, we synthesized 43 meta-analysis and review studies comparing cover crops to monocropping in order to investigate benefits, challenges, and trade-offs among ecosystem services under cover crop implementation. We summarized the current state of knowledge of cover crops effectiveness across 11 ecosystem services in three categories (regulating, provisioning and supporting). We identified the factors influencing the relative benefits and risks of integrating cover crops into crop production systems. These factors include farm practices, planting and termination season, species of cover and main crop, climatic zone and soil properties, cover crop biomass, and residue management. Our findings highlight that compared to monocropping, in general, cover cropping enhances soil biodiversity and nutrient cycling, prevents runoff and Nitrogen leaching, improves soil physical properties and carbon sequestration over the long term, and suppresses pests and weeds. However, trade-offs comprise inconsistencies in primary crop yields and soil water provision. Overall, our result highlighted that a multifunctional cover crop implementation provides substantially more regulating and supporting than other ecosystem services.

Climate change is global threat and the world is now facing its outcomes more than the last decades. Climate change has increased the frequency and intensity of flooding among other extreme weather events. The execution of knowledge management in different phases of disaster management can be effective in mitigating damages caused by floods to natural and human environments. The present study identified effective actions to implement the five stages of knowledge management in the stages before, during and after the flood event. For this purpose, a systematic review of sources and qualitative content analysis have been applied to evaluate the published research in four stages of items collection, descriptive analysis, selection and classification, and assessment. According to the findings, the pre-crisis stage requires 13 actions in knowledge creation, 20 actions in knowledge acquisition, 7 actions in knowledge organization and storage, 23 actions in knowledge sharing, and 20 actions in knowledge use and development. The crisis phase requires 12 actions in knowledge sharing and 10 actions in knowledge use. In the post-crisis stage, 5 actions in the knowledge sharing, 11 actions in the knowledge use, and 12 actions in the knowledge evaluation phases have been identified. To prevent and manage the flood crisis, knowledge improvement and management is an effective and necessary aspect that should be considered among the organizations and communities involved in emergency management.

Abstract Activated carbon (AC) is the most common and economically viable adsorbent for eliminating toxic organic pollutants, particularly dyes, from wastewater. Its widespread adoption is due to the simplicity and affordable production of AC, wherein low-cost agricultural wastes, such as durian skin can be used. Converting durian skin into AC presents a promising solution for its solid waste management. However, inherent drawbacks such as its non-selectivity, relatively short lifespan and laborious replacement and recovery processes diminish the overall efficacy of AC as an adsorbent. To address these challenges, the immobilisation of metal nanocatalysts such as silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) is one of the emerging solutions. AgNPs can facilitate the regeneration of the adsorption sites of AC by catalysing the conversion of the adsorbed dyes into harmless and simpler molecules. Nevertheless, the immobilisation of AgNPs on AC surface can be challenging as the pore size formation of AC is hard to control and the nanomaterials can easily leach out from the AC surface. Hence, in this study, we synthesised AC from durian skin (DS) and immobilised AgNPs on the AC-DS surface. Then, we used methylene blue (MB) removal for studying the adsorption capability and recyclability of the AC-DS. In the synthesis of AC-DS, the influences of reaction temperature, activating agent, and acid-washing to its capability in adsorptive removal of MB in solution were first determined. It was found that 400 °C, KOH activating agent, and the presence of acid-washing (50% of HNO3) resulted in AC-DS with the highest percentage of MB removal (91.49 ± 2.86%). Then, the overall results from three recyclability experiments demonstrate that AC-DS with immobilised AgNPs exhibited higher MB removal after several cycles (up to 6 cycles) as compared to AC-DS alone, proving the benefit of AgNPs for the recyclability of AC-DS. We also found that AgNPs/Citrate@AC-DS exhibited better adsorption capability and recyclability as compared to AgNPs/PVP@AC-DS indicating significant influences of type of stabilisers in this study. This study also demonstrates that the presence of more oxygen-containing functional groups (i.e., carboxyl and hydroxyl functional groups) after acid-washing on AC-DS and in citrate molecules, has greater influence to the performance of AC-DS and AgNPs/Citrate@AC-DS in the removal of MB as compared to the influences of their BET surface area and pore structure. The findings in this study have the potential to promote and serve as a guideline for harnessing the advantages of nanomaterials, such as AgNPs, to enhance the properties of AC for environmental applications.

Abstract Background Living labs are innovative platforms that bring together stakeholders (academic and non-academic actors from diverse disciplines), to collaboratively co-create, develop and test new technologies, products, services in real-life environments. As living labs become increasingly popular in addressing sustainability challenges in agriculture, it is essential to understand the potential of living labs to support innovation in the agricultural context. However, the existing knowledge is dispersed, and uncertainties remained regarding their approaches, methods, and outcomes. To address this gap, this study outlines a systematic review protocol of the existing literature on living labs in agricultural-related contexts. This will be done through questions focusing on the contributions of living labs to agricultural sustainability and innovation, their effectiveness, and strategies for development and implementation. Additionally, it will identify areas that require further research and development to advance our understanding of these initiatives. Method This study will be conducted according to the RepOrting Standards for Systematic Evidence Syntheses (ROSES) review protocol. We will search databases, including Scopus, Web of Science (core collection) and Google Scholar, which will be limited to titles, abstracts, and keywords in English to eliminate irrelevant literature. The quality of the method used for each selected study will be evaluated using the Critical Appraisal Skills Program, Qualitative Research Checklist. Coding and data extraction will include for example bibliographic information, types of agricultural practices tested, dominant framework (e.g. open innovation, user innovation, and participatory design), the contribution of living lab in agriculture, stakeholder roles, etc. We will use thematic analysis to synthesise our findings. We will compare descriptive and narrative sub-groups to take into account differences in living lab concepts in relation to the context, outcomes, and limitations. Conclusions The results of this review will provide a foundation for informing user-centred innovations in agriculture using living lab methodology. Researchers and practitioners working in areas such as co-design which incorporate user involvement, collaboration, and knowledge exchange, may also benefit from these findings.

Abstract Epidermal growth factor (EGF) can be efficiently used in wound healing process; but the main obstacle of its clinical use is its susceptibility to proteolysis and maintaining its effective concentration in the site of action. In this study, chitosan nanoparticles containing EGF is formulated using a simple method to increase its stability in physiological pH as well as protect its biological activity and effectiveness in wound healing process. Nanoparticles with different ratios of chitosan/EGF were prepared and evaluated in vitro and in vivo. Obtained results showed nanoparticles with 2:1 ratio of chitosan/EGF were able to release 80% of encapsulated protein after 12 h. Cell proliferation study demonstrated that prepared nanoparticles could protect EGF functionality in physiological pH. In vivo results showed that nanoparticles with 2:1 ratio of chitosan/EGF could significantly accelerate the wound closure‐rate, re‐epithelialisation and collagen deposition. In conclusion, the designed nanoparticles in optimal ratio can be considered as a potential vehicle for EGF delivery to wounds with the aim of improving healing process.

Background: Prolonged predelivery time in cesarean-section (C-section) may be associated with worse neonatal outcomes such as lower umbilical cord acid-base profile. This study investigated the association between surgical and anesthetic predelivery time intervals and neonatal acidosis in pregnant women delivering via C-section under spinal anesthesia. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 70 pregnant women candidates for elective cesarean C-section, referred to Yas Hospital. Results: Umbilical artery pH

Abstract A mild and efficient method was developed for the synthesis of new derivatives of thiazolo[3,2-a] pyrimidin-3(2H)-ones from available starting materials based on the oxidation of catechols to ortho-quinone by Myceliophthora thermophila laccase (Novozym 51,003) and 1,4-addition of active methylene carbon to these in situ generated intermediates in moderate to good yields (35–93%). The structure of the products was confirmed through 1H NMR, 13C NMR, HMBC, HSQC, DEPT-135, and mass spectroscopy techniques. These novel compounds were evaluated as active antitumor agents against human colorectal adenocarcinoma and liver adenocarcinoma cell lines. All compounds displayed potent inhibition activities against the HT-29 cell line with IC50 values of 9.8–35.9 µM, superior to the positive control doxorubicin, and most showed potent anticancer activities against the HepG2 cell line.

As dynamic and live systems, heritage spaces and historic sites should be receptive to changes and growth in order to adapt to contemporary society and demands. The main issue in this respect is how the new structures and spaces coexist with their surrounding historic and heritage sites.The historic site of Ardeshir and Dokhtar Castles are among Kerman’s significant archaeological and historical sites. However, the site’s generalist and vague protection codes and the definition of multiple preservation areas have not only failed to protect the site against new developments, but also caused an insecure, unfavourable urban and social environment resulting in many preservation challenges. In response, this article explores the design strategies to revitalise the environment and to create a suitable and efficient urban space around these historic monuments.The method is based on comparative studies of existing local site protection regulations against their national and international counterparts. As a result, the protection strategies of the site have been redefined, with design strategies extracted from analysing international preservation projects with almost similar goals. Finally, the design strategies for the preservation area of Ardeshir and Dokhtar Castles have been presented to contribute in sustainable preservation.On top of responding to the requirements of Ardeshir and Dokhtar Castles, these strategies can be adopted for designing in the vicinity of the other historic sites with similar protection goals, as well as in other pre-design-stage studies.

Abstract The Candida antarctica lipase B (Novozym 435) is found to catalyze a novel decarboxylative Michael addition in vinylogous carbamate systems for the synthesis of 1,4-benzoxazinone derivatives. The reaction goes through Michael addition, ester hydrolysis and decarboxylation. A possible mechanism is suggested, with simultaneous lipase-catalyzed Michael addition and ester hydrolysis. The present methodology offers formation of complex products through multi-step reactions in a one pot process under mild and facile reaction conditions with moderate to high yields (51–90%) and no side product formation. The reaction seems to be is a great example of enzymatic promiscuity.

Abstract A new approach was used for the immobilization of Thermomyces lanuginosus lipase (TLL), Candida antarctica lipase B (CALB), and Rhizomucor miehei lipase (RML) on amine-functionalized magnetic nanoparticles (Fe3O4@SiO2-NH2) via a multi-component reaction route (using cyclohexyl isocyanide). The used method offered a single-step and very fast process for covalent attachment of the lipases under extremely mild reaction conditions (25 °C, water, and pH 7.0). Rapid and simple immobilization of 20 mg of RML, TLL, and CALB on 1 g of the support produced 100%, 98.5%, and 99.2% immobilization yields, respectively, after 2 h of incubation. The immobilized derivatives were then used for biodiesel production from waste cooking oil. Response surface methodology (RSM) in combination with central composite rotatable design (CCRD) was employed to evaluate and optimize the biodiesel production. The effect of some parameters such as catalyst amount, reaction temperature, methanol concentration, water content for TLL or water-adsorbent for RML and CALB, and ratio of t-butanol (wt%) were investigated on the fatty acid methyl esters (FAME) yield. Graphical Abstract

Abstract Parkinson disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disease; the evidence suggests that lncRNAs and miRNAs play an important role in regulating the PD-related genes. The purpose of this research was to introduce two novel lncRNAs as the biomarker of PD diagnosis and treatment. We evaluated the expression profiles of six nodes of two regulatory networks in the PBMCs which had been got from 38 PD patients and 20 healthy individuals by qRT-PCR. Then, we compared the expression of these RNAs in both early and late stages of PD with the controls to determine if their expression could be related to the severity of disease. Further, this study investigated the direct interaction between one of the lncRNAs and target miRNA by using the dual luciferase assay. The results of the expression profiles of six nodes of the two ceRNA networks shown that linc01128, hsa-miR-24-3p and hsa-miR-30c-5p expression were significantly downregulated. While, the Linc00938, LRRK2 and ATP13A2 expression were up-regulated in the PBMC of the PD patients, in comparison to the controls. In addition, this study demonstrated that linc00938 directly sponged hsa-miR-30c-5p. The present study, therefore, for the first time, revealed two candidate lncRNAs as the biomarkers in the PD patients.

IntroductionThe problem of energy efficiency is one of the key pillars of economics, especially agricultural sector. In term of energy efficiency, a similar estimation for human actions and their consequents can be applied to the landscape system, which first introduced by Hall et al. (1986), and now referred to Energy Return on Investment (EROI). Many energy analyzes have been done, take into account a social system boundary and an input and output approach. This approach will inevitably hide the system's internal performance inside a black box. Recently, Tello et al. (2016) have proposed a novel approach for analyzing energy at the agricultural landscape scale with the aim of evaluating energy sustainability under multiple EROIs that views the landscape as a set of energy cycles between nature and society.The proposes of this study have been to consideration the theory and methodology of multiple EROIs, to investigate the efficiency of energy flow in Qazvin agricultural landscape and, to examine the relationship between energy efficiency and landscape heterogeneity in order to describe the interaction of landscape structure and energy efficiency.Materials and MethodsThe database of this case study was prepared from 46 counties of Agricultural Organization of Iran and land use map. Agricultural database was created based on agriculture, livestock, and pasture subsystems. Agricultural yield for each crop, number of agricultural, and horticultural labors, number and type of agricultural machinery, amount of fertilizers, herbicides and fungicides, used fossil fuels, electricity, and agricultural waste belonged to the agricultural sub-sector. Census of livestock, livestock and poultry production, livestock and poultry feed, livestock and poultry production, workers and machinery, fossil fuel and electricity needed and livestock waste were collected for the livestock sector. Pasture production used for livestock grazing, amount of livestock manure going back to rangelands were belong to pasture sector.All energy flows were converted to gross caloric value following research by Guzmán et al. (2014). In this method, the calculation of multiple EROIs has replaced the conventional methods of energy efficiency calculation. Landscape heterogeneity calculated using landscape metrics. Correlation coefficient was performed using SPSS between EROIs and heterogeneity.Results and DiscussionThe highest value of FEROI was found in Bashariyate Sharghi with 0.25 and the lowest was in Kharghane Gharbi with 0.018. EFEROI, which is the most similar to the conventional method of energy efficiency, had the highest rate with 0.666 in Bashariate Gharbi and the lowest rate with 0.020 in Kharqan Gharbi. IFEROI was 0.95 in Narjah and the lowest was in Shahidabad with 0.168. Lower IFEROI indicates a higher return biomass in the production system, which seeks to maintain reproduction in the system by closing the biophysical cycles. The highest NPPEROI were reported by Bashariate Gharbi at 1.122 and lowest by Kharqan Gharbi at 0.173.In this study the relationship between the EROIs index and the heterogeneity of the landscape structure was shown. The results have showed the inverse correlation between heterogeneity and energy efficiency, indicating the heterogeneous impact of landscape structure on these indicators. It can be deduced that the heterogeneity created by human in Qazvin province has reduced energy efficiency. To explain this inverse correlation between energy efficiency and the heterogeneity of the landscape, it should be noted that one of the factors affecting efficiency is that may final production come from land uses that needed more input energy and produce less output. By examining the relationship between these indices with land use and land cover of each county, it was found that these indices had their lowest level in dry farming. It means that in Qazvin province, energy efficiency in dry farming is low, and relay on external inputs, which was mainly fossil fuel.ConclusionThis study has explained how the calculation of several energy efficiency coefficients provides more complete information than conventional methods for decision making. The results of this study can be applied in land use planning to integrate energy considerations in planning and comprehensive agricultural development plan.

Background and Objective: Any test as a measurement tool must have sufficient validity and reliability to measure the desired attribute. Multiple-choice tests are the most common types of tests in medical education, which have a high degree of reliability, and this study was conducted with the aim of quantitative and qualitative evaluation of four-choice questions in Shahroud University of Medical Sciences in the academic year of 2021-2022. Methods: This descriptive study was conducted on all General and specialized courses in the two academic years of 2021-2022 at the Shahroud University of Medical Sciences. For the quantitative evaluation of the questions (difficulty index and discrimination index), the Hamava system was used and for the qualitative evaluation, the 14-item checklist of Millman was used. Findings: This study showed that out of 5000 examined questions, 2569 questions (51.4%) had a simple difficulty coefficient and 2500 (50%) had a suitable clean coefficient. And the average standard deviation of the degree of difficulty was 0.700±0.314 and the degree of cleanliness was 0.625±0.247, also 330 questions (48.5%) of taxonomy two and 190 questions (27.9%) were without defects. The most types of defects were the absence of most of the information in the question stems of 196 questions, the presence of negative words in the question stems of 136 questions, and the presence of options for all items in 121 questions, none in 45 questions, and combined options in 34 questions. And in the structure of question 398 (58/1%) was the most type of defect. Conclusion: To improve the quality of tests and use the results of quantitative and qualitative analysis of questions, practical solutions should be thought of, and professors should be trained in designing and using appropriate questions and preparing for-choice question banks.

Thermomyces lanuginosus lipase (TLL) was immobilized on epoxy functionalized hydroxyl multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT-OH) via an isocyanide-based multicomponent reaction. The immobilization process was carried out in deionized water (pH 7.0) at room temperature resulting in loading of 600 mg enzyme/g of support with specific activity 16.9 U/mg. An immobilization yield of 100% was obtained with the expressed activity 60%. The immobilized preparation exhibited an increased thermal stability with 49% residual activity at 75 °C compared with 19% for the free enzyme at the same temperature. Solvent stability in a high ratio of DMSO was improved from 52% in free TLL to 75% in immobilized TLL. The immobilized preparation was used for kinetic resolution of rac-ibuprofen through esterification of ibuprofen in isooctane as solvent. The best result was obtained with ethanol at 45 °C and molar ratio of 2.5:1 ethanol:ibuprofen in 1 ml isooctane with 99% eep and E-value 300.

In December 2019, the coronavirus ((COVID-19) outbreak related to severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS-CoV2) originated in China and expanded exponentially as a public health pandemic to over 200 countries. Over 8 million validated cases and approximately 800000 deaths. The main type is cardiac and respiratory but neurological symptoms are further mentioned as case series and case records in the research. The most frequent manifestations have been reported to include dizziness and headache followed by delirium and encephalopathy. Gillian barre syndrome, acute transversal myelitis, cerebrovascular accident, and encephalitis are among the complications noted. The most prominent occurrence at the periphery was hyposmia. This is also known that neurological demonstrations will also lead to regular features such as cough and fever, which evolve in these cases later on normal manifestations. For the timely diagnosis and separation of cases, therefore, a great suspicion guide is needed to arrest spread in neurology departments. This research provides a narrative study of COVID-19’s neurological symptoms and complexities. Our goal is to inform the neurologists and clinicians who work amidst potential COVID-19 patients regarding potential neurological symptoms, and likely neurological problems arising from the aforementioned new virus.

Introduction: Stroke is one of the most devastating neurologic conditions in the world. Despite all the efforts that have been made for effective treatment, the prevalence of this medical condition is still high. One of the new methods in the treatment of patients is the use of low power laser and pulsed magnetic fields. The previous studies investigated the effectiveness of these methods individually. However, the present study aimed to investigate their effectiveness in combination. Methods: We divided the patients into control (n=26) and experimental (n=26) groups. The primary variables included the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and the National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS). The experimental group received extremely low-frequency electromagnetic field (EMF-ELF) treatment with 1 mT power and laser in rejection with a wavelength of 840 nm for 5 days and 45 min/d. Results: The variable measured during this study, in addition to comparing the results of the intervention between the control and experimental groups, showed a significant difference in all indicators before and after the intervention. The mean and standard deviations of the modified Rankin scale (mRS), functional status (Barthel’s index), and cognitive status (MMSE) (P

Background and Objectives: Human Enterovirus 71 (EV-A71) is the causative agent for many dermal to neurological diseases especially polio-like paralysis outbreaks around the world. This study, the first of this kind in Iran, aimed to find neutralizing antibodies against EV-A71 in serum of healthy individuals in different age groups based on neutralization test (NT). Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 547 serum samples were collected from healthy individuals who were referring for routine checkup tests (aged from under 6 months to over 31 years old) to Imam-Khomeini Hospital in Tehran during January-December 2015. Serum samples were examined by NT in cell culture to detect neutralizing antibodies against EV-A71. In the next step, some of the positive samples were subjected to complete titration to determine the exact titer of anti-EV-A71 antibodies. Results: Of 547 samples, 310 (56.7%) were positive for EV-A71 neutralizing antibody. The presence of the antibody increased with age (p

Patients with immunodeficiency-associated vaccine-derived poliovirus (iVDPV) are potential poliovirus reservoirs in the posteradication era that might reintroduce polioviruses into the community. We update the iVDPV registry in Iran by reporting 9 new patients. In addition to national acute flaccid paralysis surveillance, cases were identified by screening nonparalyzed primary immunodeficiency (PID) patients. Overall, 23 iVDPV patients have been identified since 1995. Seven patients (30%) never had paralysis. Poliovirus screening accelerated the iVDPV detection rate in Iran after 2014.The iVDPV infection rate among nonparalyzed patients with adaptive PID was 3.1% (7/224), several folds higher than previous estimates. Severe combined immunodeficiency patients had the highest risk for asymptomatic infection (28.6%) compared with other PIDs. iVDPV2 emergence has decreased after the switch from trivalent to bivalent oral poliovirus vaccine in 2016. However, emergence of iVDPV1 and iVDPV3 continued. Poliovirus screening in PID patients is an essential step in the endgame of polio eradication.

The aim of this work is a green synthesis of gold nanoparticles using the aqueous extract of Anthriscus sylvestris, Ferula gummosa, and Achillea eriohora leaf and stems as the reducing agents. The effects of reducing agent concentration in the reaction mixture and temperature on the size of the gold nanotriangles were studied. The nanoparticles were characterized using UV–Vis spectroscopy, XRD, and SEM. XRD studies show that the particles are crystalline in the cubic phase. However, the reduction of gold ions by plant extracts resulted in the formation of spherical gold nanoparticles with diameters from 18 to 56 nm.

Ecological Footprint (EF) and Energy-Landscape Integrated Analysis (ELIA) estimate human societies’ imprint on nature. Both methods aim to provide overviews regarding biophysical society–nature interactions. The purposes of this article are to compare how EF and ELIA conceptualize human-nature relationships, and what results they produce when applied to the same landscape scale, in order to consider how their methodological similarities and differences can account for Land Use and Cover Change (LUCC). This conceptual comparison acknowledges the “ecocentric” perspective of EF adopted to relate end consumption baskets of human populations with the land biocapacities, and the “social metabolism” perspective of ELIA to take into account biophysical transformations and spatial distribution of matter-energy flows in different land uses. The two methods were applied to a case study of 46 municipalities in the Qazvin Province (Iran). These municipalities were grouped according to the values of the two methods by cluster analysis and correlated with landscape heterogeneity. The correlation analysis demonstrates that EF and ELIA indicators only overlap when landscape structure is highly simplified. However, lower accuracy of EF compared to ELIA as an indicator of socioecological impacts of different types of agricultural practices is confirmed. Although EF remains a useful indicator of unequal appropriation of Earth’s biocapacity, it does so by taking average patterns of food production and consumption as given. To distinguish environmentally friendly from degrading practices, more precise indicators at the landscape level such as ELIA are required for farmers, consumers and policymakers to choose more sustainable options in their decisions.

Lumbar epidural analgesia is using widely as an alternative method for anesthesia. Although it has its benefits such as the low risk of complications in contrast with general anesthesia, also it has some adverse effects, for instance: headache, loss of consciousness, pneumocephalus, dizziness, and seizure. Pneumocephalus is a rare complication of lumbar epidural block. In this case of study, a patient represents stenosis in the site of anastomosis of colon and duodenum candidate for a repair surgery with the lumbar epidural block. Epidural catheter insertion was done in the sitting position; local anesthesia was administered at the 4th and 5th lumbar vertebral interspace. A 17-gauge Husted needle was inserted using the loss-of-resistance (LOR) by air technique. Immediately the patient complained of headaches and then deteriorated to a tonic-clonic movement accompanied by post-seizure sleep, which ended up in termination of the procedure. The first-day CT-scan revealed multiple pneumocephalus. Supporting treatment was administered for 10 days; another CT-scan taken from the patient demonstrated improvement and the patient was discharged without any neurological deficit. Regional analgesia should be administered if possible under the superintendence of an expert, however, complications of an epidural catheter, such as accidental dural puncture, can postpone the recovery of the patient.

The objective of this study is to investigate the relationship between International Financial Reporting Standard (IFRS) and Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) inflows. FDI has been identified as an economic consequence of IFRS. However, thus far, few studies have examined this issue in developing countries and there are no studies which have examined IFRS-FDI in ASEAN countries. In order to fulfill this objective, this study hypothesizes that IFRS is positively associated with FDI inflows. The hypothesis was empirically tested using a sample consisting of the ten ASEAN countries from 2001 to 2016, using a bias corrected Least Square Dummy Variable (LSDVC), and Ordinary Least Square (OLS). The results of the LSDVC and OLS analyses indicate that IFRS is positively associated with FDI inflows. Normally after the adoption of a new standard such as IFRS, regulators, practitioners and academicians would be interested in understanding the consequences. Therefore, this study contributes to the understanding of the economic consequences of IFRS. This study also provides evidence regarding the outcomes of IFRS, from the aspects of FDI inflows’ enhancement. Therefore, the outcomes of this study may be useful for adopter and non-adopter countries to understand the economic consequences of IFRS. The findings may also provide important inputs to policy makers of non-adopter countries who are contemplating the adoption of IFRS. The positive relationship between IFRS and FDI inflows provides evidence that IFRS is an important determinant of FDI inflows, and eventually economic growth.

Summary: Aging is a complex process associated with a decline in functionality of adult stem cells affecting tissue homeostasis and regeneration. Calorie restriction (CR) is the only experimental manipulation known to extend lifespan and reduce the incidence of age-related disorders across numerous species. These benefits are likely mediated, at least in part, through the preservation of stem cell function. Here, we show that CR enhances the regenerative capacity of the intestinal epithelium through preservation of an injury-resistant reserve intestinal stem cell (ISC) pool. Cell-autonomous activity of mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) governs the sensitivity of reserve ISCs to injury. CR inhibits mTORC1 in these cells, protecting them against DNA damage, while mTORC1 stimulation, either genetically or through nutrient sensing, sensitizes reserve ISCs to injury, thus compromising regeneration of the epithelium. These data delineate a critical role for mTORC1 in epithelial regeneration and inform clinical strategies based on nutrient modulation. : In this study, Yousefi et al. identify reserve intestinal stem cell-autonomous suppression of mTORC1 activity in response to calorie restriction as the basis for enhanced regeneration of the intestinal epithelium after DNA-damaging injury. Conversely, the authors demonstrate that acute nutrient-based stimulation of mTORC1 prior to injury results in reserve stem cell apoptosis and intestinal regenerative failure. Keywords: calorie restriction, radiation injury, reserve intestinal stem cells, intestine, stem cells, mTORC1 signaling, radiosensitivity, regeneration

Quantitative trait loci (QTLs) E and M are major soybean alleles that confer resistance to leaf-chewing insects, and are particularly effective in combination. Flavonoids and/or isoflavonoids are classes of plant secondary metabolites that previous studies agree are the causative agents of resistance of these QTLs. However, all previous studies have compared soybean genotypes that are of dissimilar genetic backgrounds, leaving it questionable what metabolites are a result of the QTL rather than the genetic background. Here, we conducted a non-targeted mass spectrometry approach without liquid chromatography to identify differences in metabolite levels among QTLs E, M, and both (EM) that were introgressed into the background of the susceptible variety Benning. Our results found that E and M mainly confer low-level, global differences in distinct sets of metabolites. The isoflavonoid daidzein was the only metabolite that demonstrated major increases, specifically in insect-treated M and EM. Interestingly, M confers increased daidzein levels in response to insect, whereas E restores M’s depleted daidzein levels in the absence of insect. Since daidzein levels do not parallel levels of resistance, our data suggest a novel mechanism that the QTLs confer resistance to insects by mediating changes in hundreds of metabolites, which would be difficult for the insect to evolve tolerance. Collective global metabolite differences conferred by E and M might explain the increased resistance of EM.

Choosing efficient and appropriate approaches to assess bank’s financial performance is one of the most important issues having attracted bank analysts and researchers’ attention in recent decades. CAMEL is one of the important approaches proposed to survey financial performance of banks, which includes five indicators of capital adequacy, assets quality, management quality, earning quality, and liquidity. Therefore, this study aims to assess the influence of CAMEL indicators on banks’ financial performance. In this regard, the study statistical population consists of 14 listed banks on Tehran Stock Exchange during the period 2010_2015. This study has been conducted using a multivariate regression and panel data. The study has one main hypothesis and 5 subsidiary hypotheses. Analysis findings indicated that capital adequacy and assets quality have a significant positive influence on financial performance of banks and liquidity has a significant negative impact on financial performance of banks, while management quality and earning quality indicators has no significant influence on banks’ financial performance.Keywords: Capital adequacy; assets quality; management quality; earnings quality; liquidity quality; bank’s financial performanceJEL Classifications: G1, G2

Located in District 22 in west Tehran is the 134 ha Lake Chitgar. Early schemes and planning for the lake date back to 1968, but it was eventually in 2010 that it was placed in the municipality agenda. The design and implementation of the water expanse was complete by 2012, and it was filled a year later. There has been a variety of occasionally contradictory criticisms in academic and professional circles regarding the lake’s location, water supply sources and its environmental impacts: from the designated density of surrounding urban areas to quality and quantity of incoming water and even the city’s ecologic capacity to retain such a lake. Nevertheless, bearing in mind the landscape architects’ disinvolvement from the project’s macroscale decisions, and thereby the negligence of coastal landscape debates, the present paper attempts to pay particular attention to such neglected debates concerning this project. The paper reviews the views and concepts employed in coastal landscape architecture, the most important of which being those of green infrastructures and taking advantage of natural elements. The attention to ecological concept was also considered in order to create a suitable ground for animal life and its growth, and thereby users’ contact and familiarisation with these phenomena with learning and social objectives in mind. It should be noted, however, that the authors believe that authorities’ unfamiliarity with these concepts have contributed in the scheme’s part-failure, and non-implementation of many original ideas. A further level of training is proposed in response, to familiarise authorities as well as the public in order to help mitigate the present situation.

Widespread use of oral poliovirus vaccine has led to an ≈99.9% decrease in global incidence of poliomyelitis (from ≈350,000 cases in 1988 to 74 cases in 2015) and eradication of wild-type poliovirus serotypes 2 and 3. However, patients with primary immunodeficiency might shed vaccine-derived polioviruses (VDPVs) for an extended period, which could pose a major threat to polio eradication programs. Since 1995, sixteen VDPV populations have been isolated from 14 patients with immunodeficiency in Iran. For these patients, vaccine-associated paralysis, mostly in >1 extremity, was the first manifestation of primary immunodeficiency. Seven patients with humoral immunodeficiency cleared VDPV infection more frequently than did 6 patients with combined immunodeficiencies. Our results raise questions about manifestations of VDPVs in immunodeficient patients and the role of cellular immunity against enterovirus infections. On the basis of an association between VDPVs and immunodeficiency, we advocate screening of patients with primary immunodeficiency for shedding of polioviruses.

Background and Objectives: Acute flaccid paralysis (AFP) is a complicated clinical syndrome with a wide range of potential etiologies. Several infectious agents including different virus families have been isolated from AFP cases. In most surveys, Non-polio Enteroviruses (NPEVs) have been detected as main infectious agents in AFP cases; however, there are also some reports about Adenovirus isolation in these patients. In this study, NPEVs and Adenoviruses in stool specimens of AFP cases with or without Residual Paralysis (RP) with negative results for poliovirus are investigated. Materials and Methods: Nucleic acid extractions from 55 AFP cases were examined by nested PCR or semi-nested PCR with specific primers to identify NPEVs or Adenoviruses, respectively. VP1 (for Enteroviruses) and hexon (for Adenoviruses) gene amplification products were sequenced and compared with available sequences in the GenBank. Results: From 55 fecal (37 RP+ and 18 RP-) specimens, 7 NPEVs (12.7%) (2 cases in RP+) and 7 Adenoviruses (12.7%) (4 cases in RP+) were identified. Echovirus types 3, 17 and 30, Coxsackie virus A8, and Enterovirus 80 were among NPEVs and Adenoviruses type 2 and 41 were also identified. Conclusion: Our finding shows that NPEVs and Adenoviruses may be isolated from the acute flaccid paralyses but there is no association between the residual paralyses and virus detection.

Members of the Msi family of RNA-binding proteins have recently emerged as potent oncoproteins in a range of malignancies. MSI2 is highly expressed in hematopoietic cancers, where it is required for disease maintenance. In contrast to the hematopoietic system, colorectal cancers can express both Msi family members, MSI1 and MSI2. Here, we demonstrate that, in the intestinal epithelium, Msi1 and Msi2 have analogous oncogenic effects. Further, comparison of Msi1/2-induced gene expression programs and transcriptome-wide analyses of Msi1/2-RNA-binding targets reveal significant functional overlap, including induction of the PDK-Akt-mTORC1 axis. Ultimately, we demonstrate that concomitant loss of function of both MSI family members is sufficient to abrogate the growth of human colorectal cancer cells, and Msi gene deletion inhibits tumorigenesis in several mouse models of intestinal cancer. Our findings demonstrate that MSI1 and MSI2 act as functionally redundant oncoproteins required for the ontogeny of intestinal cancers.

Introduction & Purpose:Chlorine is the most important matter to water disinfection due to a residual effect. But by formation of by-products could be harmful to consumers’ health ,The researchers decided to use the method or other material. For this reason, in this study ozone used to water disinfection and its performance to disinfect of contaminated water with Escherichia coli was investigated. Methods: E. coli was utilized to contaminated water preparation. Culture and counting methods were performed according to the standard methods and recorded with CFU/ml. Normality of the data was analyzed by using Asmynrf-Kolmogrov test and T-test and ANOVA were used to statistical analysis, too. Results :Theresults showed that the destruction of E. coli increased by increasing of ozone concentration and decreasing of density. Removal of the concentration of 1 mg per liter, compared with a concentration of 5 mg per liter of ozone in the ozone density〖10〗^4و〖10〗^5 CFU / ml is significant(P_value0.05). Conclusion :Ozone due to its oxidizing effect on microorganisms is a good disinfectant properties. The results of this study, ozone can be highly contaminated with E. coli was significantly effective in disinfecting water.

Introduction: Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) is currently considered as the primary method of determining the degree of mucosal injury following caustic ingestion. The present study aimed to evaluate the screening performance characteristics of EGD in predicting the depth of gastrointestinal mucosal injuries following caustic ingestion. Methods: Adult patients who were referred to emergency department due to ingestion of corrosive materials, over a 7-year period, were enrolled to this diagnostic accuracy study. Sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values as well as negative and positive likelihood ratios of EGD in predicting the depth of mucosal injury was calculated using pathologic findings as the gold standard. Results: 54 cases with the mean age of 35 ± 11.2 years were enrolled (59.25% male). Primary endoscopic results defined 28 (51.85%) cases as second grade and 26 (48.14%) as third grade of mucosal injury. On the other hand, pathologic findings reported 21 (38.88%) patients as first grade, 14 (25.92%) as second, and 19 patients (35.18%) as third grade. Sensitivity and specificity of endoscopy for determining grade II tissue injury were 50.00 (23.04-76.96) and 47.50 (31.51-63.87), respectively. These measures were 100.00 (82.35-100) and 80.00 (63.06-91.56), respectively for grade III. Accuracy of EGD was 87.03% for grade III and 48.14% for grade II. Conclusion: Based on the findings of the present study, endoscopic grading of caustic related mucosal injury based on the Zargar’s classification has good accuracy in predicting grade III (87%) and fail accuracy in grade II injuries (48%). It seems that we should be cautious in planning treatment for these patients solely based on endoscopic results.Â

Introduction: Caustic ingestions are among the most prevalent causes of toxic exposure. The present 10-year survey aimed to evaluate the epidemiologic features and outcomes of caustic ingestion cases presenting to emergency department. Methods: This is a retrospective cross-sectional study on patients who were admitted to a referral toxicology center during 2004 to 2014, following caustic ingestion. Baseline characteristics, presenting chief complaint, severity of mucosal injury, complications, imaging and laboratory findings as well as outcomes (need for ICU admission, need for surgery, mortality) were recorded, reviewing patients’ medical profile, and analyzed using SPSS 22. Results: 348 patients with mean age of 37.76 ± 17.62 years were studied (55.6% male). The mean amount of ingested caustic agent was 106.69 ± 100.24 mL (59.2 % intentional). Intentional ingestions (p < 0.0001), acidic substance (p = 0.054), and higher volume of ingestion (p = 0.021) were significantly associated with higher severity of mucosal damage. 28 (8%) cases had died, 53 (15.2%) were admitted to ICU, and 115 (33%) cases underwent surgery. Conclusion: It seems that, suicidal intention, higher grade of mucosal injury, higher volume of ingestion, lower level of consciousness, lower serum pH, and higher respiratory rate are among the most important predictors of need for ICU admission, need for surgery, and mortality.

Functional properties of each enzyme strictly depend on immobilization protocol used for linking enzyme and carrier. Different strategies were applied to prepare the immobilized derivatives of Rhizomucor miehei lipase (RML) and chemically aminated RML (NH2-RML). Both RML and NH2-RML forms were covalently immobilized on glyoxyl sepharose (Gx-RML and Gx-NH2-RML), glyoxyl sepharose dithiothreitol (Gx-DTT-RML and Gx-DTT-NH2-RML), activated sepharose with cyanogen bromide (CNBr-RML and CNBr-NH2-RML) and heterofunctional epoxy support partially modified with iminodiacetic acid (epoxy-IDA-RML and epoxy-IDA-NH2-RML). Immobilization varied from 11% up to 88% yields producing specific activities ranging from 0.5 up to 1.9 UI/mg. Great improvement in thermal stability for Gx-DTT-NH2-RML and epoxy-IDA-NH2-RML derivatives was obtained by retaining 49% and 37% of their initial activities at 70 °C, respectively. The regioselectivity of each derivative was also examined in hydrolysis of fish oil at three different conditions. All the derivatives were selective between cis-5,8,11,14,17-eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and cis-4,7,10,13,16,19-docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in favor of EPA. The highest selectivity (32.9 folds) was observed for epoxy-IDA-NH2-RML derivative in the hydrolysis reaction performed at pH 5 and 4 °C. Recyclability study showed good capability of the immobilized biocatalysts to be used repeatedly, retaining 50−91% of their initial activities after five cycles of the reaction.

Land is becoming a scarce natural resource due to the burgeoning population growth and urbanization. Essentially, detecting changes in land surface is significant for understanding and assessing human impacts on the environment. Nowadays, land use change detection using remote sensing data provides quantitative and timely information for management and evaluation of natural resources. This study investigates the land use changes in Birjand of Iran using Landsat TM5 images between 1986 and 2010. Artificial neural network was used for classification of Landsat images. Five land use classes were delineated include Pasture, Irrigated farming Land, Dry farming lands, Barren land and Urban. Post-classification technique applied to monitor land use change through cross-tabulation. Visual interpretation, expert knowledge of the study area and ground truth in formation accumulated with field works to assess the accuracy of the classification results. Overall accuracy of 2010 and 1986 image classification was 89.67 (Kappa coefficient: 0.8539) and 88.78 (Kappa coefficient: 0.8424) respectively. The results showed considerable land use changes for the given study area. The greatest increase was related to Barren land class almost 378 percent. The dry farming lands reduced by almost 48 percent during the study period. Urban class has increased drastically about 219 %, 3 % of dry farming lands, 61 % of pastures lands, 4percent of irrigated farming land in 1986, converted to urban and industrial land in 2010 and alone 31 % of urban land in 1986 had conformity to urban in 2010. Irrigated farming land increased about 17.16 % predominantly due to population growth. The result of this study revealed a successful application of the ANN approach for land use change detection. Although this model demonstrated high sensitivity to training samples data, it required trial and error for attainment more accurate. But high accuracy of classification in last two years proved that ANN was highly efficient for classification of Landsat images in the study area.

The recent development of targeted murine reporter alleles as proxies for intestinal stem cell activity has led to significant advances in our understanding of somatic stem cell hierarchies and dynamics. Analysis of these reporters has led to a model in which an indispensable reserve stem cell at the top of the hierarchy (marked by Bmi1 and Hopx reporters) gives rise to active intestinal stem cells (marked by an Lgr5 reporter). Despite these advances, controversy exists regarding the specificity and fidelity with which these alleles distinguish intestinal stem cell populations. Here, we undertake a comprehensive comparison of widely used proxy reporters including both CreERT2 and EGFP cassettes targeted to the Lgr5, Bmi1, and Hopx loci. Single-cell transcriptional profiling of these populations and their progeny reveals that reserve and active intestinal stem cells are molecularly and functionally distinct, supporting a two-stem-cell model for intestinal self-renewal.

Background and aim: Delay in diagnosis of breast cancer is still a main cause of death among disease women. However, preventive procedures to solve this problem are less than expectation. The success rate in the treatment of breast can be directly related to early diagnose and breast self –examination is one of the ways to detect the disease early. This study was aimed to examine the effect of education on knowledge, attitude and performance of employed women about breast self-examination. Methods: In this quasi-experimental study, 50 employee women randomly selected of Shahrekord University randomly. Participants during 2 weeks, in 2 sections and each session 2 hours performed self –examination. The rate of knowledge, attitude, and performance of participants before and after education using a questionnaires and check list were evaluated and compared. Results: Based on the results, the mean scores of subjects from 33.5±18.4 to 68.9± 9/2 increased (p

Abstract Background and purpose:Pediculosis (Pediculus capitis) is a worldwide public health concern that affects mostly on primary school-aged children. This descriptive study was performed to determine the prevalence of pediculosis and some risk factors among girls primary school in Azadshahr city, Golestan province, Iran. Materials and Methods:A total of 1510 girls were selected from primary schools of Azadshahr from first to sixth grade. Data were collected from the selected schools by one trained nursing inspector. A questionnaire was filled for each school child prior to hair examination, then examination was carried out to detect head lice as well as eggs/nits. Data were analyzed using SPSS for Windows 16.0 and the chi-square test. Statistical significance was considered at the level of (P < 0.05). Results:Of 1510 primary school girls under investigation, 55 were infected with pediculosis with the average infection of 3.60%. The results showed significant variations in head lice infestation, and factors such as sharing instruments, personal health, parents educations, bathing facilities, hair length, family size, father profession, hair shape, health care employer (P < 0.05) while there was no significant variation in lice infestation when, frequency of mothers profession and hair shape (P > 0.05). Conclusion:Increasing awareness and training of teachers and parents, as well as improving standards of personal health can significantly reduce the prevalence of pediculosis.

The ability to interconvert terminally differentiated cells could serve as a powerful tool for cell-based treatment of degenerative diseases, including diabetes mellitus. To determine which, if any, adult tissues are competent to activate an islet β cell program, we performed an in vivo screen by expressing three β cell “reprogramming factors” in a wide spectrum of tissues. We report that transient intestinal expression of these factors—Pdx1, MafA, and Ngn3 (PMN)—promotes rapid conversion of intestinal crypt cells into endocrine cells, which coalesce into “neoislets” below the crypt base. Neoislet cells express insulin and show ultrastructural features of β cells. Importantly, intestinal neoislets are glucose-responsive and able to ameliorate hyperglycemia in diabetic mice. Moreover, PMN expression in human intestinal “organoids” stimulates the conversion of intestinal epithelial cells into β-like cells. Our results thus demonstrate that the intestine is an accessible and abundant source of functional insulin-producing cells.

Purpose: To report a case of perfluorocarbon liquid (PFCL) migration into the subarachnoid space at the time of vitreoretinal surgery in a patient with morning glory syndrome associated retinal detachment. Case report: A 9-year-old girl underwent pars plana vitrectomy and silicone oil injection for retinal detachment associated with morning glory syndrome. PFCL was used for retinal stabilization before endolaser photocoagulation. The retina detached, and repeated vitrectomy and silicone oil injection was performed. Postoperative magnetic resonance imaging revealed PFCL in the subarachnoid space. Conclusion: The migration of perfluorocarbon into the subarachnoid space is a rare complication of vitrectomy in patients with morning glory syndrome.

A stem cell's epigenome directs cell fate during development, homeostasis, and regeneration. Epigenetic dysregulation can lead to inappropriate cell fate decisions, aberrant cell function, and even cancer. The histone variant macroH2A has been shown to influence gene expression, guide cell fate, and safeguard against genotoxic stress. Interestingly, mice lacking functional macroH2A histones (hereafter referred to as macroH2A DKO) are viable and fertile; yet suffer from increased perinatal death and reduced weight and size compared to wildtype (WT). Here, we ask whether the ostensible reduced vigor of macroH2A DKO mice extends to intestinal stem cell (ISC) function during homeostasis, regeneration, and oncogenesis. Lgr5-eGFP-IRES-CreERT2 or Hopx-CreERT2::Rosa26-LSL-tdTomato ISC reporter mice or the C57BL/6J-Apcmin/J murine intestinal adenoma model were bred into a macroH2A DKO or strain-matched WT background and assessed for ISC functionality, regeneration and tumorigenesis. High-dose (12Gy) whole-body γ-irradiation was used as an injury model. We show that macroH2A is dispensable for intestinal homeostasis and macroH2A DKO mice have similar numbers of active crypt-base columnar ISCs (CBCs). MacroH2A DKO intestine exhibits impaired regeneration following injury, despite having significantly more putative reserve ISCs. DKO reserve ISCs disproportionately undergo apoptosis compared to WT after DNA damage infliction. Interestingly, a macroH2A DKO background does not significantly increase tumorigenesis in the Apcmin model of intestinal adenoma. We conclude that macroH2A influences reserve ISC number and function during homeostasis and regeneration. These data suggest macroH2A enhances reserve ISC survival after DNA damage and thus confers functional robustness to the intestinal epithelium.

Background: Morphine would impair the immune system which particularly in patients with pain or stress might deteriorate the disease process. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of tramadol on phagocytic activity of mouse peritoneal phagocytes. Methods: Seventy Balb/c mice were selected and divided into two equal control and treatment groups. The mice in treatment group were received 20, 40, 60, 80 and 100 mg/kg tramadol twice daily from day 1 to 5 respectively and 100 mg/kg from day 6 to 30 once daily. The mice in control group received normal saline. Six mice were euthanized at days 3, 5, 10, 20 and 30 from each group and the samples were obtained from peritoneal cavity. The rate and intensity of phagocytosis were measured by evaluation of sheep red blood cells phagocytosis by phagocytes in peritoneal samples. Results: There was not any significant difference between the two groups in the rate and intensity of phagocytosis during the first five days of the study, although they increased in both groups up to day 10. Thereafter, they increased only in treatment group. The rate of phagocytosis in the first to third samples were 20  4, 23 8, 498 in treatment group and 189, 1911, 321 in control group, respectively. This activity was significantly different in the third sample. Evaluation of sheep red blood cells phagocytosis by phagocytes in peritoneal samples. Phagocytosis intensity in treatment group was higher than control group throughout the study. Conclusion: The results indicate that tramadol can enhance the activity of immune system and in cases that suppose to have immune deficiency, tramadol can be the preferred analgesic.

Background: Increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) and lipid peroxidation are seen in many dermatologic disorders, for example, atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, vitiligo, acne vulgaris, pemphigus vulgaris (PV), lichen planus, and alopecia areata. ROS has an important role in the inflammation process. In PV, increased production of ROS leads to decline of antioxidants in plasma and red blood cells which results in oxidative stress. We aimed to evaluate the level of these antioxidants in PV patients and compare it to the controls. Materials and Methods: Among patients attending the dermatology clinics, 30 patients with PV, who had never been on treatment, were enrolled to the study. The control group consisted of 30 age- and sex-matched healthy non-smoker individuals. Venous blood was collected from the subjects for the evaluation of plasma levels of glutathione peroxidase, vitamin C, selenium, bilirubin, and uric acid. Results: Age mean and standard deviation of the patients (40.83, 12.74) was comparable to the controls (41.96, 13.08). Mean level of uric acid was significantly lower in PV patients compared to the controls (P = 0.006). Other antioxidants were not different between the two groups. Uric acid of the patients with mucosal involvement was significantly lower than patients with mucocutaneous involvement (P = 0.049). Limitations: The blood level of other antioxidants (e.g. malondialdehyde) was not evaluated. Conclusions: Uric acid as an antioxidant in our study had similar changes to previous studies in the field of other diseases but selenium, bilirubin, and glutathione peroxidase did not differ between patients and controls.

To determine the prevalence of vaccine-associated paralytic poliomyelitis (VAPP) in immunodeficient infants, we reviewed all documented cases caused by immunodeficiency-associated vaccine-derived polioviruses in Iran from 1995 through 2008. Changing to an inactivated polio vaccine vaccination schedule and introduction of screening of neonates for immunodeficiencies could reduce the risk for VAPP infection.

Cervical lymphadenopathy is a common presentation of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). It can be present in the classical location of the level II or VI lymph nodes or at any other levels of the lymph nodes in the neck. NPC should be suspected when a patient presents with cervical lymphadenopathy and conductive hearing loss. A thorough endoscopic assessment of the nasopharynx should be performed to rule out this radiotherapy-curable disease at its early stage.

Introduction: Alopecia areata (AA) is a common type of hair loss with an autoimmune basis. As the role of homocysteine (Hcys), folate, and CRP has been considered in some autoimmune diseases. Objectives: To evaluate homocysteine, folate and CRP level in AA. Methods: This study was performed on 29 patients who had AA for at least 6 months affecting more than 20% of scalp, and 32 healthy controls. Levels of serum Hcys, blood high-sensitivity CRP, and RBC folate were measured in all subjects. Results: The mean level of RBC folate was significantly lower in the patient group than that in controls (P < 0.001). Also, the level of RBC folate was significantly lower in patients with extensive forms of disease (alopecia totalis/alopecia universalis) in comparison with more localized form (patchy hair loss) (P < 0.05). Patients with higher "Severity of Alopecia Total" (SALT) score had lower RBC folate, as well. Serum Hcys and blood high-sensitivity CRP levels did not show a significant difference in two groups. Conclusion: Patients with alopecia areata have lower level of RBC folate which is in negative correlation with both severity and extension of AA.