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Objective: Uterine fibroids (UFs) are the most common benign tumors in women, and their prevalence varies between 5.4 and 77.0% in reproductive-aged women. Patients with UFs may experience severe symptoms that they can affect different aspects of their lives, including quality of life. This study aimed to investigate the health-related quality of life among Iranian women with UFs. Materials and methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at Imam Hossein Hospital, Tehran, Iran, between November 2023 and February 2024, Data collection was based on the census method. Uterine Fibroid Symptom and Health-related Quality of Life (UFS-QOL) questionnaire was used to assess symptom severity and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) of women with UFs. Data were analyzed using the SPSS software version 23.0. Results: Overall, 220 patients with a mean age of 43.10±5.01 years were included in the study. Patients had total UFS-QOL score of 64.11±20.35 with the following subscales’ scores: symptom severity: (19.00±6.39), concern: (60.79±26.47), activities: (71.76±23.02), energy/mood: (54.39±25.14), control: (66.52±22.82), self-consciousness: (77.63±26.39), and sexual function: (59.40±31.18). Furthermore, patients with multiparity history (P= 0.001), obesity (P

Objective(s): The effects of Crocus sativus, safranal, and pioglitazone on aerosolized paraquat (PQ)-induced systemic changes were examined. Materials and Methods: Control (Ctrl) and PQ groups of rats were exposed to saline or PQ (27 and 54 mg/m3, PQ-L and PQ-H) aerosols eight times on alternate days. Nine PQ-H groups were treated with dexamethasone (0.03 mg/kg/day, Dexa), two doses of C. sativus extract (20 and 80 mg/kg/day, CS-L and CS-H), safranal (0.8 and 3.2 mg/kg/day, Saf-L and Saf-H), pioglitazone (5 and 10 mg/kg/day, Pio-L and Pio-H), and the combination of low dose of the pioglitazone and extract or safranal (Pio + CS and Pio + Saf) after the end of PQ exposure. Results: Interferon-gamma (INF-γ), interleukin 10 (IL-10), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and thiol serum levels were reduced, but tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α), malondialdehyde (MDA), and total and differential WBC were increased in both PQ groups (P

Abstract Background Oral candidiasis (OC) is a prevalent opportunistic infection in patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. The increasing resistance to antifungal agents in HIV-positive individuals suffering from OC raised concerns. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the prevalence of drug-resistant OC in HIV-positive patients. Methods Pubmed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Embase databases were systematically searched for eligible articles up to November 30, 2023. Studies reporting resistance to antifungal agents in Candida species isolated from HIV-positive patients with OC were included. Baseline characteristics, clinical features, isolated Candida species, and antifungal resistance were independently extracted by two reviewers. The pooled prevalence with a 95% confidence interval (CI) was calculated using the random effect model or fixed effect model. Results Out of the 1942 records, 25 studies consisting of 2564 Candida species entered the meta-analysis. The pooled prevalence of resistance to the antifungal agents was as follows: ketoconazole (25.5%, 95% CI: 15.1–35.8%), fluconazole (24.8%, 95% CI: 17.4–32.1%), 5-Flucytosine (22.9%, 95% CI: -13.7-59.6%), itraconazole (20.0%, 95% CI: 10.0–26.0%), voriconazole (20.0%, 95% CI: 1.9–38.0%), miconazole (15.0%, 95% CI: 5.1–26.0%), clotrimazole (13.4%, 95% CI: 2.3–24.5%), nystatin (4.9%, 95% CI: -0.05-10.3%), amphotericin B (2.9%, 95% CI: 0.5–5.3%), and caspofungin (0.1%, 95% CI: -0.3-0.6%). Furthermore, there were high heterogeneities among almost all included studies regarding the resistance to different antifungal agents (I2 > 50.00%, P

Crocus sativus L. was used for the treatment of a wide range of disorders in traditional medicine. Due to the extensive protective and treatment properties of C. sativus and its constituents in various diseases, the purpose of this review is to collect a summary of its effects, on experimental studies, both in vitro and in vivo. Databases such as PubMed, Science Direct, and Scopus were explored until January 2023 by employing suitable keywords. Several investigations have indicated that the therapeutic properties of C. sativus may be due to its anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory effects on the nervous, cardiovascular, immune, and respiratory systems. Further research has shown that its petals also have anticonvulsant properties. Pharmacological studies have shown that crocetin and safranal have anti-oxidant properties and through inhibiting the release of free radicals lead to the prevention of disorders such as tumor cell proliferation, atherosclerosis, hepatotoxicity, bladder toxicity, and ethanol induced hippocampal disorders. Numerous studies have been performed on the effect of C. sativus and its constituents in laboratory animal models under in vitro and in vivo conditions on various disorders. This is necessary but not enough and more clinical trials are needed to investigate unknown aspects of the therapeutic properties of C. sativus and its main constituents in different disorders.

Background: During X-ray imaging, pulmonary movements can cause many image artifacts. To tackle this issue, several studies, including mathematical algorithms and 2D-3D image registration methods, have been presented. Recently, the application of deep artificial neural networks has been considered for image generation and prediction.Objective: In this study, a convolutional long short-term memory (ConvLSTM) neural network is used to predict spatiotemporal 4DCT images.Material and Methods: In this analytical analysis study, two ConvLSTM structures, consisting of stacked ConvLSTM models along with the hyperparameter optimizer algorithm and a new design of the ConvLSTM model are proposed. The hyperparameter optimizer algorithm in the conventional ConvLSTM includes the number of layers, number of filters, kernel size, epoch number, optimizer, and learning rate. The two ConvLSTM structures were also evaluated through six experiments based on Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) and structural similarity index (SSIM).Results: Comparing the two networks demonstrates that the new design of the ConvLSTM network is faster, more accurate, and more reliable in comparison to the tuned-stacked ConvLSTM model. For all patients, the estimated RMSE and SSIM were 3.17 and 0.988, respectively, and a significant improvement can be observed in comparison to the previous studies. Conclusion: Overall, the results of the new design of the ConvLSTM network show excellent performances in terms of RMSE and SSIM. Also, the generated CT images with the new design of the ConvLSTM model show a good consistency with the corresponding references regarding registration accuracy and robustness.

Abstract Vaccination programmes provide a safe, effective and cost‐efficient strategy for maintaining population health. In veterinary medicine, vaccination not only reduces disease within animal populations but also serves to enhance public health by targeting zoonoses. Nevertheless, for many pathogens, an effective vaccine remains elusive. Recently, nanovaccines have proved to be successful for various infectious and non‐infectious diseases of animals. These novel technologies, such as virus‐like particles, self‐assembling proteins, polymeric nanoparticles, liposomes and virosomes, offer great potential for solving many of the vaccine production challenges. Their benefits include low immunotoxicity, antigen stability, enhanced immunogenicity, flexibility sustained release and the ability to evoke both humoral and cellular immune responses. Nanovaccines are more efficient than traditional vaccines due to ease of control and plasticity in their physio‐chemical properties. They use a highly targeted immunological approach which can provide strong and long‐lasting immunity. This article reviews the currently available nanovaccine technology and considers its utility for both infectious diseases and non‐infectious diseases such as auto‐immunity and cancer. Future research opportunities and application challenges from bench to clinical usage are also discussed.

Paraquat (PQ) is an herbicide toxin that induces injury in different organs. The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects of carvacrol were reported previously. The effects of carvacrol and pioglitazone (Pio) alone and their combination on inhaled PQ-induced systemic and lung oxidative stress and inflammation as well as behavioral changes were examined in rats. In this study, animals were exposed to saline (control [Ctrl]) or PQ (PQ groups) aerosols. PQ-exposed animals were treated with 0.03 mg/kg/day dexamethasone (Dexa), 20 and 80 mg/kg/day carvacrol (C-L and C-H), 5 mg/kg/day Pio, and Pio+C-L for 16 days. Inhaled PQ markedly enhanced total and differential white blood cell (WBC) counts, nitric oxide (NO), and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels but decreased catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities and thiol levels both in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and blood and increased interferon-gamma (INF-γ) and interleukin-10 (IL-10) levels in the BALF (p

Objectives: The present study examined the role of social support in protecting against disability among older people residing in Poldasht, West Azerbaijan Province, Iran in 2018. Methods: This cross-sectional study was undertaken on 305 older adults who were selected by random sampling method. The World Health Organization standardized disability scale (WHODASS2) and multidimensional scale of perceived social support (MSPSS) were applied to collect the data. Data analysis was run through a multiple linear regression model by SPSS software, version 23. The significance level was set at P≤0.05. Results: The mean age of older people was 69.13±7.63 years. The highest incidence of disability was in the subscale of community participation (n=111, 36.4%) and mobility (n=111, 36.4%). The results revealed that age (β=0.32, P

Introduction: This is a sociological study of the economic burden on patients writh cardiovascular disease (CVD) based on the behavior change approach in their behavior in Javad Al-Aeme hospital of Mashhad in 2020. Method: This is a cross-sectional survey conducted on a population of 385 CVD patients of over 50 years of age admitted to the Training, Research and Treatment Center of Javad Al-Aeme hospital of Mashhad. Data were collected through a demographic profile form and a researcher-made questionnaire, the validity and reliability of which were measured using the content validity method and the Cronbach’s alpha method, respectively. SPSS and AMOS softwares and appropriate statistical tests were used for the data analysis purpose. Findings: The results of regression analysis demonstrated a significant positive relationship of the independent variables of the study, i.e. “socio-economic status”, “living conditions”, and “health-related capital” with patients’ behavioral style and economic status. The results of structural equation modeling (SEM) showed that the collected data confirm at an acceptable level the structural model with its extraneous variables, i.e. “socio-economic status”, “living conditions” and “health-related capital”. The total effects of these three variables on behavioral style were calculated to be 0.41. In other words, 41% of the behavioral style changes among cardiovascular patients can be explained by these three variables and 59% of the unexplained variance related to exogenous variables. It was also found that the effect of the behavior change approach on economic burden was -0.49%. Discussion: Since the behavioral style change, socio-economic status, health-related capital, and living conditions significantly affect the CVD, effective steps can be taken to prevent and control this disease and reduce its costs and economic burden by modifying and changing the patients’ behavioral style.

Abstract Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a fundamental process for embryonic development during which epithelial cells acquire mesenchymal characteristics, and the underlying mechanisms confer malignant features to carcinoma cells such as dissemination throughout the organism and resistance to anticancer treatments. During the past decades, an entire class of molecules, called non-coding RNA (ncRNA), has been characterized as a key regulator of almost every cellular process, including EMT. Like protein-coding genes, ncRNAs can be deregulated in cancer, acting as oncogenes or tumor suppressors. The various forms of ncRNAs, including microRNAs, PIWI-interacting RNAs, small nucleolar RNAs, transfer RNA-derived RNA fragments, long non-coding RNAs, and circular RNAs can orchestrate the complex regulatory networks of EMT at multiple levels. Understanding the molecular mechanism underlying ncRNAs in EMT can provide fundamental insights into cancer metastasis and may lead to novel therapeutic approaches. In this review, we describe recent advances in the understanding of ncRNAs in EMT and provide an overview of recent ncRNA applications in the clinic.

Abstract Background multidrug resistance (MDR) is One of the foremost challenges in overcoming breast cancer. Various molecular processes are involved in the development of MDR in breast cancer cells, including over expression of ABC transporters such as ABCG2 (BCRP), increase breast cancer stem cells drug resistance, and epithelial mesenchymal transition. Aims In the present study, we used bioinformatics and experimental analysis to investigate the role of miR‐548 K, in the modulating of ABCG2, in MDR breast cancer cells. Methods and Results In silico inspections introduce 14 microRNAs targeting 3′‐UTR region of ABCG2 transcripts, which are probably involved in breast cancer drug resistance. An association was highlighted between miR‐548 k with ABC transporter family. The expression level of ABCG2 gene in MCF7‐MX cell lines was significantly more than MCF7 cell lines. On the other hand, we increased the expression of miR‐548 K in MCF7‐MX and MCF7 cell lines through its transfection, which dramatically coincided with decreasion in the ABCG2 transcripts level. Additional studies on patient samples revealed that the expression of ABCG2 showed an increase in ABCG2 level in neoadjuvant chemotherapy drugs resistance (NCDR) patients compared to primary pre‐operative chemotherapy drugs response (PCDR) patients. Also, a reduction in the expression of miR‐548 K in NCDR patients was revealed. Conclusion The results of our study suggest that miR‐548 K may be involved in modulating the expression of ABCG2 in MDR breast cancer cells.

IntroductionWith the shift from traditional to modern society, significant socio-cultural transformations have brought about remarkable transformations in both the concept of the body and related approaches. Body management practices have evolved into a whole new dimension that has experienced profound alterations. These transformations are so profound that they have given rise to a scientific domain solely devoted to the study and understanding of the concept of body management. Modern society is teeming with vast amounts of data pertaining to the body, spurring social researchers to delve into the intriguing domain of body management patterns. These studies, undertaken over the last few decades, have led to a myriad of investigations centered upon this very theme.Within contemporary societies, female cinema stars occupy a highly sought-after and idealized position in the sphere of body management. The cinema industry harnesses the power of women and men who exude specific fashion trends with the aim of captivating audiences and amassing profits. The principal objective of this research is to investigate to what extent women residing in Tehran emulate the body management practices employed by female cinema stars.MethodologyThe study in question adopts a qualitative methodology known as Grounded Theory, which brings together the Paradigmatic Model of Strauss and the Constructing Grounded Theory Model proposed by Kathy Charmaz. Utilizing this approach, this research employs tools such as in-depth interviews and observation for data collection, which are developed and fine-tuned as the study unfolds.For this study, the targeted participants are women who receive treatment in beauty clinics situated in District 5 of Tehran. To select participants, the study employs two sampling methods: purposive non-probability sampling and theoretical sampling. The sample size is deliberately chosen to be sufficiently large in order to achieve theoretical saturation, meaning that the sampling process persists until no significant new insights are gained from adding additional samples to the study.During the data categorization and coding process, the initial step involves extracting phrases, explanations, sentences, and signaling words or phrases, as they serve as evidence that the interviewees have attempted to differentiate and label their body management practices, or to give further explanation on their body-related behaviors. This process is conducted through an open coding approach, which means that no rigid classification is imposed on the data and that the classifications emerge organically from the data itself.Subsequently, the identified codes are combined based on shared semantic themes. Afterwards, based on common features of grouped phrases within each theme, a hierarchical process is undertaken to unveil related themes, essential patterns, and ultimately, central themes. In the final phase of this research, the extracted themes are compared to the portrayal of female cinema stars' body management styles in their movies and on social media.FiningsThe target population of this research consists of 14 female participants, ranging between 17 to 68 years old, who have undergone at least one cosmetic surgery on different parts of their face and body. All participants in this study have chosen to undergo cosmetic surgery of their own accord. The primary model derived from this research aims to explore the sociological aspects of body management and the process of pattern replication in Iranian cinema, as seen in the case of female cinema stars.The data analysis process has employed open coding and axial coding methodologies suggested by the Paradigmatic Model of Strauss and Constructing Ground Theory Model proposed by Kathy Charmaz, where open coding was applied as the first step, followed by axial coding as the second step.A total of 25 axial codes were ultimately extracted. These codes were subsequently grouped into four overarching categories: antecedent conditions, facilitating conditions, interventions, and outcomes and strategies, as well as consequences.Causal conditions encompass events and situations that precede and contribute to the emergence of specific phenomena. These causal conditions are generally classified into four main categories:Causative Conditions: Events or circumstances that precipitate an event. Causative conditions are typically grouped into four primary categories. A significant antecedent condition influencing the decision to undergo cosmetic surgery is the media's competitive nature.Contextual Conditions: A set of characteristics that are closely associated with a particular phenomenon, reflective of the setting in which the event occurs. Antecedent and facilitating factors influencing the rise in cosmetic surgery rates encompass social pressures. These pressures are significant elements within the broader context where interventions take place.Intervening Conditions: Interventions involve procedures, practices, or strategies implemented to handle, control, or respond to a phenomenon. Several survey participants resort to cosmetic surgery as a strategy to garner attention and prominence.4. Outcomes and Strategies: This category pertains to the outcomes, outputs, or consequences of actions and responses. These encompass increased social acceptance, reduced political and social engagement, elevated self-confidence, coping with aging issues, higher chances of success, amplified social stature, augmented income through social networks, aesthetic preferences, and the fulfillment of beauty standards.ResultsSocial competition for beauty does not merely exist in the real world but is also amplified in the perceptions of female audiences through a form of media-induced competition. In essence, the competition for beauty is solidified within a reciprocal and dynamic relationship between the media and the social world. Cultural and social patterns, such as spiritual ownership, symbolic competition, and extravagant consumption, significantly influence individuals' media consumption and consequent interpretations.Actresses featured in both national and international media function as representatives of other social actors who serve as points of interest and competition in the realm of cosmetic surgery discourse. Some individuals tend to fixate solely on actresses' facial beauty, while overlooking other aspects of their appearance and character. Another significant causal condition is the negative perception of one's body, which is fostered by the media's influence. Discontent with one's life and the perception of certain problems as irreversible contribute significantly as antecedent factors that can lead to the decision to undergo cosmetic surgery.Furthermore, the progress of medical science has significantly contributed to the phenomenon of cosmetic surgery, as the media has allowed cultural and social acceptance of this trend. Concurrently, advances in medicine have made it easier than ever to satisfy these desires and cater to individuals' aesthetic goals. The trend of imitating the cosmetic surgery procedures of movie stars can be observed through the use of several strategies: garnering public attention, concealing one's true self, increasing social media followership, and closely monitoring and controlling one's body.

This paper aims to analyze the impact of the traumatic experiences on the identity formation of Shaila Abdulla’s main character in Saffron Dreams and elaborates on how she manages to overcome her diverse emotional burdens. The author, who is concerned with Muslim women’s multiple identities and struggles in the American Diaspora, discusses the challenges of living in the increasing Islamophobic climate in the aftermath of 9/11 through the life of her heroine, Arissa Illahi, a Pakistani writer and artist, who loses her husband in the collapse of the World Trade Centre. Judith Herman’s conceptions of trauma and recovery are applied to discuss the impact of trauma on the identity formation of the character and how she succeeds to go through the process of healing. The paper also analyzes the literary strategies and narrative techniques in this feminist trauma narrative to indicate how the author has tried to represent what is originally marked by voicelessness. The results of the study demonstrates that although the traumatic event of 9/11 and its consequences has devastating effects on Arissa, she as an artist is able to utilize her psychological resources and to take advantage of familial ties to cope successfully with the traumatic experiences in her life, tolerate adversities, and even develop an optimistic view point about new possibilities for her future life. This paper supports the aim of contemporary feminist traumatology which is to make women’s trauma visible, give meaning to it, and ultimately create frameworks that promote the healing of trauma. Cathy Caruth, Judith Herman, and Laurie Vickroy are among the main theoreticians of the research.

Objective(s): Ferula is a genus of the family Apiaceae and it includes around 170 species of flowering plants mostly native to the Mediterranean region and eastern to central Asia. In Iran, Ferula spp. are widely used in cuisine and traditional medicine. This review discusses the anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, and immunomodulatory activities of different species of Ferula. Materials and Methods: To prepare the present review, Scopus, Google Scholar, PubMed, and Web of Science scientific databases were searched to retrieve relevant articles published from 1985 until December 2020. Results: Based on our literature review, Ferula plants and their derivatives decrease the levels of inflammatory mediators and exert anti-apoptotic effects. Under oxidative stress conditions, these plants and their constituents were shown to decrease oxidative markers such as malondialdehyde, reactive oxygen species, and nitric oxide but increase superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, catalase activity, and glutathione level. Ferula plants and their constituents also showed immunomodulatory effects by affecting various cytokines. Besides, in vivo and in vitro studies showed hypotensive, neuroprotective, memory-enhancing, anti-oxidant, hepatoprotective, antimicrobial, anticarcinogenic, anticytotoxic, antiobesity, and anthelmintic effects for various species of Ferula and their constituents. These plants also showed a healing effect on gynecological issues such as miscarriage, unusual pain, difficult menstruation, and leukorrhea. All these beneficial effects could have resulted from the anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, and immunomodulatory effects of these plants and their constituents.Conclusion: Based on the available literature, members of the genus Ferula can be regarded as potential therapeutics against inflammatory conditions, oxidative stress, and immune dysregulation.

Background: The supply of medicines in every country is vital in any country, and access to appropriate medicines ensures the health of that community by preventingthe spread of smuggling. The present study aimed to evaluate the current policies of Iran to supply medicines through importation and examine the application of the ABC-VED (Always, Better, Control-Vital, Essential, Desirable) method in assisting policymakers in making decisions on the medicine importation. Method: The present research study was conducted in qualitative and quantitative phases. In the qualitative phase, face-to-face interviews were conducted with 13 health experts in the field of production and import of medicine and their "content analysis" was done using MaxQDA 18 software.In the quantitative phase, to determine the nature of imported drug items, the ABC-VED analysis matrix and the information available in the pharmaceutical statistics of 2019 were used. Then, the distribution of drugs in each of the matrix categories was determined. Result: In the qualitative phase of the study, experts pointed to the impact of restrictive policies on importation of medicines, reducing access to medicines, increasing smuggling, reducing innovation, weakening marketing, and reducing the quality and increasing price of domestically produced medicines. In the quantitative phase, it was found that AV category consists of 36, AE 145, AD 85, BV 31, BE 240, CV 126, CE 970, and CD 672 type of medicines using the ABC-VED matrix. Finally, 21.5 % of medicines were categorized in group I belonging to vital and expensive medicines, 7.2 % in group II that are essential medicnies with moderate prices, and finaly 1 % were categorized in group III which are desirable medicines with lower prices. Conclusion: According to the opinions of experts in the country pharmaceutical industry, Iranchr('39')s policy on drug importations has always been contractionary. Although it has led to lower prices and increased patientschr('39') access to medicines, it made side effects on the pharmaceutical system. Thses side effects includ sectional medical shortages over time. Policymakers can restrict the import of expensive and small quantities of drugs and allocate more funds to the supply of vital drugs. The analyses used cannot be the criterion for decision alone and can only indicate drug priorities in budget shortages and must make decisions within a multi-criteria decision framework.

Background: Diabetes mellitus is one of the prevalent diseases in the world with several complications including diabetic foot ulcers. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of peer support on foot care in patients with type 2 diabetes. Materials and Methods: This clinical trial study was performed at selected centers of Isfahan University of Medical Sciences in 2017. Fifty patients with type 2 diabetes were randomly assigned into intervention and control groups. Five 30-min. supportive training sessions were held for the intervention group by the peers and during 35 days. Foot Care Confidence/Foot-Care Behavior Scale For Diabetes (FCCS-FCB) was completed by both groups before, immediately after and 1 month after the intervention. Collected data were analyzed using Chi-square, Mann–Whitney, repeated measures ANOVA and t-test. Results: Mean (SD) age of subjects was 56.46 (7.36) years old Mean (SD) score of self-efficacy (F2, 26 = 54.71, p < 0.001), preventive behaviors (F2, 26 = 28.46, p < 0.001), and potentially damaging (F2, 26 = 27.89, p < 0.001) had significant differences between the two groups immediately and 1 month after the peer support. Conclusions: Peer support can enhance foot care behaviors in diabetic patients. Therefore, using people who are successful in the education and support of patients has a significant role, and nurses can use them as a support in the field of care and follow-up. However, health agencies are responsible for providing the patients with the best guidelines, and these results can be useful as an evidence for them.

Abstract:Background and aims: Contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) is one of the most common reasons for acute kidney failure. Because of the increasing use of contrasts for computed tomography and angiography and coronary interventions, the incidence of CIN is on rise. CIN is a serious and common side effect ofthe use of contrasts. Despite taking of preventative measures, around 30-70% of patients are at risk of CIN. Researchers thus are seeking out appropriate approaches to prevent CIN. Positive effects of many medicinal plants, with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and high efficiency and safety, in decreasing serum creatinine levels have been demonstrated. This study was conducted to collect evidence on the medicinal plants that are effective in decreasing serum creatinine levels and CINdevelopmentMethods: For this purpose, the key words contrast media, herbal, acute kidney injury, and nephropathy were used to retrieve relevant articles indexed in Google Scholar, Magiran, Elsevier, and PubMed. Then, the eligible articles were included in the review.Results: The results of studies are reported in Table.Conclusion: Although some studies have suggested that some herbs have a toxic effect on kidney function, in the present review, most plants could help decrease serum creatinine levels and improve renal function.

Problem definition: Raqqa pottery is a group of pottery belonging to the Ayyubid period in northern Syria. The examination of pottery discovered from this region indicates the creation of a mixed style in the adornments that is generally influenced by the local pottery called “ancient local pottery”. The bird motif, as one of the main ones in the Islamic art, accounts for a considerable part of the painted pottery of Raqqa in the 12th century during the reign of Ayyubids, which conform to the ideas of the Syrian artist more than other available motifs. This pattern is observed in three general forms, including a black shade on a turquoise background in combination with stylized plant motifs, volumetric and decorated on the gold-plated and enamel pottery, and individually with a basic and simple design type in the lakabi technique. Choosing the bird and human-bird motifs, the present article attempts to study the characteristics of these motifs in Raqqa glazed wares as a manifestation of the culture and art of the Ayyubid period. Objective: The present study aims to know and recognize the culture and art of the Ayyubid period, as part of the Islamic culture Research method: This research has been conducted on a descriptive-analytical basis. The data were analyzed on a case-by-case basis and the information were collected through the library and the Internet. Results: Pottery artists have used three types of special looks in displaying the bird motif which include paying attention to the nature and its representation, symbolic look and combination of elements and beings with each other along with special presentation techniques, all of which have given a special meaning to Raqqa wares.

Awareness of the current outbreak of Coronavirus Disease - 2019 (COVID-19) affecting the nervous system and identifying its possible ways to enter the Central Nervous System (CNS) are critical for the prevention and treatment of the disease. Hence, the CNS implications of the COVID-19 since the spread of the virus were reviewed in this study.

Background and purpose: Development of biocompatible and nontoxic methods for synthesis of nanoparticles is important in bio-nanotechnology. This study aimed at biosynthesis of titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2 NPs) using leaf of the native mangrove (Avicennia marina) and investigating its antibacterial activity. Materials and methods: Effect of four different solutions composed of dry extract of mangrove leaf and different amounts of chemical titanium isopropoxide in biosynthesis of TiO2 NPs was evaluated. The biosynthesized TiO2 NPs were characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), UV–visible spectrophotometry (UV-Vis), and fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The antibacterial activity was assessed using well diffusion method. Results: The solution color containing dry extract of mangrove leaf and titanium isopropoxide began to change 10 min after the reaction was started, showing the reduction of Ti ions by the extract and synthesizing TiO2 NPs. Combination of 1 g dry extract and 3.75 mL of titanium isopropoxide was considered the optimum concentration for TiO2 NPs biosynthesis. Conclusion: XRD analysis approved the formation of crystalline TiO2 NPs. SEM images identified TiO2 NPs with mean diameter of 25 nm and spherical shape. FTIR analysis distinguished Ti in NPs structure indicating the formation of TiO2 NPs. UV-Vis showed the reduction of bandgap energy in biosynthesized TiO2 NPs. Gram-negative bacteria showed more resistance against the bacterial pathogens. Gram-positive Micrococuss Sp. was recognized the most sensitive regarding the largest diameter of inhibitory zone and Gram-negative Vibrio harveyi was recognized the most resistant regarding no formation of inhibitory zone.

In this study, the effect of dietary supplementation with mineral and Nano forms of two essential elements, iron and copper was investigated on the blood biochemical profile, antioxidant, and immunity performance of Schizothorax Zarudnyi with an average weight of 23.97±0.45 g. The fish were fed with diets containing (1) no copper and iron supplement (basal diet), (2) 150 mg/kg of mineral iron supplement, (3) 3 mg/kg of mineral copper supplement, (4) 150 and 3 mg/kg of iron and mineral copper supplement respectively, (5) 150 mg/kg of iron nanoparticle supplement, (6) 3 mg/kg of copper nanoparticle supplement, and (7) 150 and 3 mg/kg of iron nanoparticles and copper nanoparticle supplement, respectively for 60 days. Dietary addition of iron and copper in both forms improved blood biochemical profile, antioxidant, and immunity performance compared to the control. The addition of Nano form led to significant improvement in blood parameters and antioxidant defense system compared to the mineral-fed treatments. The simultaneous use of the Nano form of these two elements led to a significant improvement in serum total protein, albumin, globulin, HDL, cholesterol, triglyceride, MDA, GPx, SOD, CAT, C3, ACH50, and serum bactericidal activity compared to other treatments. In conclusion, the simultaneous use of iron and copper at the rate of 150 and 3 mg/kg of diet in Nano form is much more effective than their mineral or individual Nano forms to improve the antioxidant and immune parameters of S. Zarudnyi.

The control of local scour around the piers and bridge abutments has been recognized as an issue of considerable importance due to the structural damage of bridges. Many methods have been already proposed by several researchers to tackle this problem, including methods that change the pattern of flow around the piers, such as sacrificial piles (Melville and Hadfield, 1999; Chabert and Engeldinger, 1956), Submerged vanes (Lauchlan, 1999; Grimaldi et al., 2009a), Slot (Chiew, 1992; Grimaldi et al., 2009b), and collars (Zarrati et al., 2006; Alabi, 2006). In addition to the above methods, other methods have been developed to protect the bed against the scour, including the use of riprap around the pier (Parola, 1993; Graziano et al., 1990), sandy bags, gabions, and geotextiles. The sacrificial piles are, indeed, the piers with smaller diameters than the bridge piers, which divert the flow from the bridge pier leading to the reduction of the scour potential. The efficiency of the sacrificial piles in controlling the scour depends on the number and diameter of the piles, the degree of submergence, the arrangement, their relative placement against the piers, the distance between the piles, the distance between the piles and the piers as well as their angles to the flow (Melville and Hadfield, 1999). According to these methods, many studies have been carried out on the effect of the sacrificial piles in reducing the bridge piers scour. However, the use of submerged piles with different degrees of submergence has been less considered. Since the length of sacrificial piles has an effect on the degree of submergence, the length of the sacrificial piles is effective in scouring, as well. In effect, the present study focuses on the scouring around bridge piers by using 2 different arrangements with and without using the sacrificial pile groups at the upstream of the pier.

Background: In recent years, the incidence of depression in people, especially women, has been growing, making it essential to study psychological correlates with the disorder. Therefore, the present study was conducted to investigate the relationship of mindfulness, psychological hardiness and spirituality with depression in mothers. Methods: The statistical population of this correlational study included all mothers aged 30 - 50 years in Isfahan in 2016 - 2017. To this end, 300 mothers were selected by convenience sampling. Data collection instruments were Mindfulness Skills Measures, Psychological Hardiness Questionnaire, Spirituality Questionnaire and Beck Depression Inventory. For data analysis, the descriptive statistics (mean and standard deviation) and inferential statistics (Pearson correlation coefficient and multiple regression analysis) were used. Results: Mindfulness (-0.48), psychological hardiness (-0.39) and spirituality (-0.55) had a significant, inverse correlation with depression in mothers (P-value < 0.001). These components could significantly predict depression in mothers (P-value < 0.001). Conclusion: Given the significant role of the subscales mindfulness, psychological hardiness and spirituality in predicting mothers' depression, it is suggested that the education of these components to mothers be taken into consideration to prevent the occurrence of depression.

Introduction: It is a long time that natural toxin research is conducted to unlock the medical potential of toxins. Although venoms-toxins cause pathophysiological conditions, they may be effective to treat several diseases. Since toxins including scorpion toxins target voltage-gated ion channels, they may have profound effects on excitable cells. Therefore, elucidating the cellular and electrophysiological impacts of toxins, particularly scorpion toxins would be helpful in future drug development opportunities. Methods: Intracellular recording was made from F1 cells of Helix aspersa in the presence of calcium Ringer solution in which Na+ and K+ channels were blocked. Then, the modulation of channel function in the presence of extracellular application of F4 and F6 toxins and kaliotoxin (KTX; 50 nM and 1 μM) was examined by assessing the electrophysiological characteristics of calcium spikes. Results: The two active toxin fractions, similar to KTX, a known Ca2+-activated K+ channel blocker, reduced the amplitude of AHP, enhanced the firing frequency of calcium spikes and broadened the duration of Ca2+ spikes. Therefore, it might be inferred that these two new fractions induce neuronal hyperexcitability possibly, in part, by blocking calcium-activated potassium channel current. However, this supposition requires further investigation using voltage clamping technique. Conclusion: These toxin fractions may act as blocker of calcium-activated potassium channels.

The musculoskeletal (MS) system consists of bone, cartilage, tendon, ligament, and skeletal muscle, which forms the basic framework of the human body. This system plays a vital role in appropriate body functions, including movement, the protection of internal organs, support, hematopoiesis, and postural stability. Therefore, it is understandable that the damage or loss of MS tissues significantly reduces the quality of life and limits mobility. Tissue engineering and its applications in the healthcare industry have been rapidly growing over the past few decades. Tissue engineering has made significant contributions toward developing new therapeutic strategies for the treatment of MS defects and relevant disease. Among various biomaterials used for tissue engineering, natural polymers offer superior properties that promote optimal cell interaction and desired biological function. Natural polymers have similarity with the native ECM, including enzymatic degradation, bio-resorb and non-toxic degradation products, ability to conjugate with various agents, and high chemical versatility, biocompatibility, and bioactivity that promote optimal cell interaction and desired biological functions. This review summarizes recent advances in applying natural-based scaffolds for musculoskeletal tissue engineering.

Background and Aim: In the field of scientometrics, little attention has been paid to stem cells. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to draw a Scientific Map of stem cells area (co-word analysis) based on the papers indexed in Web of Science database in selected countries during the years 2011-2013. Materials and Methods: This study is based on descriptive method, and it was conducted by scientometrics and co-word analysis technique. In this study, 34,142 articles were analyzed from Web of Science database. The search system of Web of Science is a tool for collecting data. Data analysis was done using Web of Science analysis system and CiteSpace software. Results: Most productions in stem cells are in English and belong to America. Stem cell, cell differentiation, in vitro, gene expression, mesenchymal stem cells, embryonic stem cells and transplantation are the most frequently used words and hot topics in this field. Conclusion: The growing trend in this area has caused different subject fields to enter stem cells areas. Considering the high frequency of embryonic stem cells in the field, it can be said that different diseases such as spinal cord problems and heart diseases can be treated using these cells.

Objective Electrical low frequency stimulation (LFS) is a new therapeutic method that moderates hyperexcitability during epileptic states. Seizure occurrence is accompanied by some changes in action potential (AP) features. In this study, we investigated the inhibitory action of LFS on epileptiform activity (EA) induced-changes in AP features in hippocampal CA1 pyramidal neurons. Materials and Methods In this experimental study, we induced EA in hippocampal slices by increasing the extracellular potassium (K+) concentration to 12 mM. LFS (1 Hz) was applied to the Schaffer collaterals at different pulse numbers (600 and 900) at the beginning of the EA. Changes in AP features recorded by whole-cell patch clamp recording were compared using phase plot analysis. Results Induction of EA depolarized membrane potential, decreased peak amplitude, as well as the maximum rise and decay slopes of APs. Administration of 1 Hz LFS at the beginning of EA prevented the above mentioned changes in AP features. This suppressive effect of LFS depended on the LFS pulse number, such that application of 900 pulses of LFS had a stronger recovery effect on AP features that changed during EA compared to 600 pulses of LFS. The constructed phase plots of APs revealed that LFS at 900 pulses significantly decreased the changes in resting membrane potential (RMP), peak amplitude, and maximum rise and decay slopes that appeared during EA. Conclusion Increasing the numbers of LFS pulses can magnify its inhibitory effects on EA-induced changes in AP features.

Background and aims: The impact of work-related accidents due to multiple psychological consequences, financial and material outcomes, is in the focus of industrial and organizational psychology, management and health and safety specialist’s attention. For this purpose, this study aimed to compare personality characteristics and attitude towards safety among injured and non- injured workers was conducted in a large industrial plant. Methods: This research is done with the method Causal-comparative and sample of 32 persons of injured and 30 persons non- injured that were selected randomly, and for data collection questionnaire of Personality Traits and questionnaire of safety attitudes were used, both questionnaires have satisfactory reliability and validity. Findings were analyzed by use of multivariable analysis of variances and t test for independent groups. Analyzing and comparing is done by SPSS software version 16. Results: Scores of injured workers in the personality characteristic components as neuroticism, extraversion, openness to experience, agreeableness, conscientiousness, and attitude towards safety for injured workers are respectively 2/58, 3/39, 3/21, 3/51, 3/91 and 3/71, and for non- injured workers 2/48, 3/52, 3/25, 3/55, 3/90, 3/92 respectively. Despite the existence of differences between injured and non- injured workers in the scores of neuroticism, extraversion, openness to experience, agreeableness and attitude towards safety, but the differences was not significant (p

The present study investigated the possible difference between EFL teachers’ beliefs and their actual classroom practices. To this end, 210 Iranian EFL teachers (103 teachers from high schools and 107 from language institutes) participated in the study. The 45-item Likert-scale Beliefs About Language Learning Inventory (BALLI) developed originally by Horwitz, (1985) and validated by Kasraee Nejad (2014) for the context of Iran and an observation checklist, devised and validated by the researchers, comprised the data collection instruments adopted in the current study. The results of paired t-test revealed statistically significant differences between beliefs of Iranian EFL teachers and their actual classroom practices. Moreover, the results of Independent Samples t-test indicated that the two groups of high school and language institute teachers were significantly different with regard to their beliefs on language learning. In addition, the results of Chi-square analysis demonstrated 43 out of 45 teachers’ specific beliefs were significantly different from their actual classroom practices. In the light of the findings of the present study, educational policy makers and managers in both high schools and language institutes are recommended to introduce ways to raise EFL teachers’ awareness of their beliefs to enhance their efficiency in their actual classroom practices.

Background and purpose: Dyes are one of the major sources of chemicals responsible for environmental pollution. Synthetic dyes degradation in industrial wastewaters has received increasing attention due to their high solubility and stability in water. In the present study, the photocatalytic efficiency of as-synthesized nano- TiO2 supported on the H-form Fe- Fe-ZSM-5 zeolite was investigated for degradation of reactive red 198 dye in water under UV light. Materials and methods: Effects of dye concentration and pH of the water solution were studied in batch techniques to determine the optimum values of operating conditions. The elemental composition of synthesized photocatalyst was determined by EDX (Energy-Dispersive X-ray spectroscopy). The specific surface area and pore volume of Fe-ZSM-5@ TiO2 were determined by BET (Brunauer-Emmett-Teller) technique. Results: The SEM (scanning electron microscopy) images revealed that nano-TiO2 particles are well distributed on the surface of Fe-ZSM-5 zeolite. The FT-IR analysis (Fourier Transform Infrared Radiation) approved the formation of the Fe-ZSM-5 and anatase phase of TiO2 coating onto the surface of Fe-ZSM-5. From UV-Vis analysis (Ultra violet-visible diffuse reflectance spectroscopy), the band gap energy of synthesized photocatalyst was calculated to be about 2.74 eV. The optimum values of pH and dye concentration for high efficient removal of reactive red 198 dye using as-synthesized Fe-ZSM-5@ TiO2 photocatalyst were found to be 4 and 100 mg/L, respectively. Maximum dye removal of 98% was achieved at optimum condition at UV exposure time of 105 min. The reusability of the photocatalyst was still significant after five times repeated cycles. Conclusion: The resulting Fe-ZSM-5@ TiO2 is believed to be suitable for potential applications in advanced oxidation processes and could be a good candidate for treatment of industrial real textile dye effluent.

Effluents from oil refineries contain different concentrations of aliphatic and aromatic hydrocarbons. Given the toxicity of the aromatic fraction that is not readily degradable by conventional treatment processes, advanced processes are required for their removal. This study investigated the photocatalytic degradation and removal of organic contaminants from oil refinery effluents. For this purpose, TiO2-Fe-ZSM-5 photocatalyst was initially produced by immobilizing TiO2 into the structure of synthetic Fe-ZSM-5 zeolite. X-Ray diffraction, X-Ray fluorescence, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscometry, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and nitrogen sorption/desorption techniques were then employed to determine the structural and physicochemical properties of the products. High purity TiO2-Fe-ZSM-5 photocatalyst with a TiO2 percentage of 29.28 and a specific surface area of 304.6 m2g-1 was synthesized. The photocatalyst thus obtained was then applied for the removal of organic pollutants from the effluent of Bandar Abbas Oil Refinery. A maximum COD reduction of more than 80% was achieved under optimum conditions (i.e., pH: 4, catalyst concentration: 3 g/l, temperature: 45 °C, and UV exposure time: 240 min).

Background: Azoospermia is the medical condition of a man not having any measurable level of sperm in his semen. Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) is a member of the glycoprotein hormone family that plays an important role in human reproduction because of its essential role in normal spermatogenesis. Various Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) have been reported within FSH receptor (FSHR) gene that may affect the receptor function. Objective: The present study aimed to investigate the correlation between two FSHR SNPs at positions A919G, A2039G, and susceptibility to azoospermia in a group of Iranian azoospermic men. The association between FSH levels within the sera and A919G and A2039G alleles and genotypes were also investigated. Materials and Methods: This case control study was performed on 212 men with azoospermia (126 non-obstructive and 86 obstructive) and 200 healthy Iranian men. Two FSHR gene SNPs were genotyped using PCR-RFLP method. The relationship between FSH levels within the sera and A919G and A2039G alleles and genotypes were also investigated. Results: Statistical analysis indicated that at A919G position, AA genotype and A allele were more frequent in obstructive azoospermia cases compared to non-obstructive or normal men (p=0.001). Regarding A2039G polymorphisms, no significant difference was observed between both azoospermia groups and the controls. The mean level of serum FSH was higher in the non-obstructive men compared to the obstructive patients (23.8 versus 13.8, respectively, p= 0.04). Conclusion: The results of the present study indicated that the genetic polymorphisms in the FSHR gene might increase the susceptibility to azoospermia in Iranian men.

اختلال اوتیسم طبقه ای از اختلالات عصبی رشدی است که بر جنبه های بیشماری از عملکردهای روزانه ی کودک تاثیر گذار است و با علایمی چون مشکل در برقرای ارتباط، تعامل اجتماعی، عملکردهای شناختی، عملکردهای حسی حرکتی همراه می‌باشد. مداخلات متعددی در این حوزه صورت می‌گیرد که یکی از این مداخلات استفاده از حیوانات در درمان، شامل اسب سواری درمانی است. با توجه به سهولت برقراری ارتباط کودکان اوتیسم با حیوانات نسبت به انسانها، برآن شدیم که به بررسی تحقیقاتی که تا کنون در زمینه ی استفاده از این درمان در کودکان با اختلال اوتیسم انجام شده است بپردازیم. به نظر می‌رسد اسب سواری درمانی تاثیرات مثبتی برعملکرد کودکان اوتیسم دارد که البته نبود یک پروتکل واحد برای اجرای این مداخلات نیاز به انجام پژوهشهای بیشتری در این زمینه برای ایجاد یک پروتکل درمانی نشانمی‌دهد. کلید واژه‌ها: اوتیسم، اسب سواری درمانی، هیپوتراپی

Introduction: Human resources development is one of the most important components of any organization and detecting important factors influencing human resources management plays an essential role in the success of the firms. In this study, we investigated different factors influencing human resources productivity of Shiraz University of Medical Sciences staff. Method: The present research was a cross-sectional study. Sample size was calculated 208 individuals. To access information about the human resource productivity, a valid and reliable questionnaire was used. The data were analyzed using SPSS software. Pearson correlation was used for statistical analysis of the data (p=0.05). Results:The results showed that there was a statistically significant relationship (p-value

Bachground and Aim: Nowadays, with regard to the quantitative and qualitative development of dental esthetic services and qualitative advances made in tooth-colored restorations, there is a great rise of demands for use of composite resins. The aim of this study was to assess the efficiency of diamond and carbide burs on bond strength of a self-etch adhesive to dentin . Materials and Methods: In this in vitro experimental study sixty sound extracted human third molars were mounted in self cure acrylic resin. The teeth were randomly assigned to two groups (n=30 each). In the first group, the teeth were ground with high-speed medium grit diamond bur and in the second group the teeth were ground with high-speed carbide burs. A composite cylinder with a 3 mm diameter was bonded to each specimen with a self-etch adhesive system and the shear bond test was performed using a universal testing machine. The results were expressed in MPas and were subjected to and Tukey's test . Results: The mean shear bond strength in diamond and carbide burs were 17.67 MPa (SD= ±4.41) and 14.51 MPa (SD= ±5.18), respectively. There was a significant difference in dentin bond strength between two groups. (P< 0.05) . Conclusion: The use of different burs affect the shear bond strength of the self-etch adhesives to dentin. This adhesive performed significantly better when a diamond bur was used to prepared dentin surface .

Introduction: Professional ethics is a very important issue for managers who are role models for students and staff. It can also be very effective in organizational activities. The main objective of this research is to describe the result of managers’ self assessment in Shiraz teaching hospitals. Methods: The present research is a cross-sectional study. The statistical society of this research includes all senior, middle and executive managers of Nemazi, Faghihi and Chamran hospitals. Regarding the small volume of statistical society and advice of a statistical counselor, the census method was used. The data were gathered using questionnaires. Results: The result of this research showed that there was a significant association between managerial ethics and education levels but there wasn’t a significant association between average score of managerial ethics and the field of study, sex and age. Also the mean for managerial ethics was the highest in Faghihi hospital. Discussion: According to research findings and positive association between managerial ethics and education levels, observance of professional ethics is essential. So we can train managers to observe professional ethics more in their organizations in order to improve organizational efficacy.

A novel proposal for the zero-lag synchronization of the delayed coupled neurons, is to connect them indirectly via a third relay neuron. In this study, we develop a Poincaré map to investigate the robustness of the synchrony in such a relay system against inhomogeneity in the neurons and synaptic parameters. We show that when the inhomogeneity does not violate the symmetry of the system, synchrony is maintained and in some cases inhomogeneity enhances synchrony. On the other hand if the inhomogeneity breaks the symmetry of the system, zero lag synchrony can not be preserved. In this case we give analytical results for the phase lag of the spiking of the neurons in the stable state.

Childhood autism is a severe form of complex genetically heterogeneous and behaviorally defined set of neurodevelopmental diseases, collectively termed as autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Reverse transcriptase quantitative real-time PCR (RT-qPCR) is a highly sensitive technique for transcriptome analysis, and it has been frequently used in ASD gene expression studies. However, normalization to stably expressed reference gene(s) is necessary to validate any alteration reported at the mRNA level for target genes. The main goal of the present study was to find the most stable reference genes in the salivary transcriptome for RT-qPCR analysis in non-syndromic male childhood autism. Saliva samples were obtained from nine drug naïve non-syndromic male children with autism and also sex-, age-, and location-matched healthy controls using the RNA-stabilizer kit from DNA Genotek. A systematic two-phased measurement of whole saliva mRNA levels for eight common housekeeping genes (HKGs) was carried out by RT-qPCR, and the stability of expression for each candidate gene was analyzed using two specialized algorithms, geNorm and NormFinder, in parallel. Our analysis shows that while the frequently used HKG ACTB is not a suitable reference gene, the combination of GAPDH and YWHAZ could be recommended for normalization of RT-qPCR analysis of salivary transcriptome in non-syndromic autistic male children.