bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mîrzâ Mahdûm’a Göre İmâmiyye Şîası’nda Ta‘n ve La‘n
Authors: Cankurt Şehmus , Rençber Fevzi
Published: December 2024

Bu araştırma, Safevîler ve Osmanlılar döneminde yaşayan Mîrzâ Mahdûm’u (öl. 996/1587) ve İmâmiyye Şîası’nın inancı açısından büyük öneme sahip olan ta‘n (sövme) ve la‘n (lanetleme) konusunu ele almaktadır. Çalışmanın kapsamı, sövme ve lanetleme ile sınırlıdır. Bu çalışma, Mahdûm’un kendi zamanında İmâmiyye’nin ta‘n ve la‘nı nasıl algıladıklarını ve onun bu topluluğun konuya dair görüşlerine karşı nasıl bir tutum sergilediğini ortaya koymayı amaçlamaktadır. Her ne kadar bu alanda çalışma yapan araştırmacılar olsa da Sünnî müellif Mîrzâ Mahdûm’un konu hakkında farklı fikirlerini Kitâbu’n-Nevâkid li-Zuhûri’r-Ravâfid adlı reddiye türü eserinde ortaya koyması önem arz etmektedir. Ayrıca, kendi zamanındaki itikâdî ve fıkhî meselelere yaptığı atıflar, İslâm düşünce tarihi açısından önemli verileri bu değerli eseriyle günümüze taşıması bakımından araştırmanın önemini artırmaktadır. Bu çalışma nitel bir araştırma olup nitel araştırma modellerinden biri olan doküman analizi yöntemiyle ele alınmıştır. Doküman analizi modeliyle İmâmiyye Şîası’nın sövme ve lanetlemeyi nasıl algıladıkları tespit edilmeye çalışılmıştır. Bu yöntem doğrultusunda, gerekli veriler doküman taraması tekniğiyle elde edilmiş, ardından ilgili dokümanlar derlenerek, elde edilen malzeme veri analizi kapsamında betimsel analiz ve içerik analizi kullanılarak incelenmiştir. Konu, tarihsel, sosyolojik ve mezhepsel bakış açılarıyla değerlendirilmiştir.
Düzeltme: 20. Asırda Adana’da Yaşamış Arap Alevîsi (Nusayrî) Âlimler
Authors: Sonay Ahmet
Published: December 2024

Arap Alevîleri, Adana’da yaşayan en eski dinî gruplardan biridir. Arap Alevîlerinin Adana’daki varlığı, kimi kaynaklar tarafından 10. asra kadar götürülmektedir. Siyasî destekten yoksun olmalarına rağmen Arap Alevîlerinin Adana’daki varlıklarını bu kadar uzun süre koruyabilmelerinde en büyük katkılardan biri, hiç şüphesiz Arap Alevîsi âlimlere aittir. Söz konusu âlimlerin çoğu hakkında günümüze bilgi ulaşmamıştır. Bununla birlikte yakın tarihte Adana’da yaşamış bazı Arap Alevîsi âlimlere ilişkin elimizde somut bilgiler bulunmaktadır. Bu makalenin konusu, 20. asırda Adana’da yaşamış ve haklarında somut bilgilere sahip olduğumuz Arap Alevîsi âlimlerdir. Makale, bahsi geçen konuyu ilmî bir üslupla araştırmak suretiyle Arap Alevîlerinin Adana’daki yakın tarihine ışık tutmayı amaçlamaktadır. Makalede tasvirci metot takip edilmiş, objektif olmaya özen gösterilmiştir. Konuyla ilgili yazılı kaynakların toplanması için zorlu bir saha çalışması yapılmış, bunun yanı sıra, konuya vâkıf Arap Alevîsi kanaat önderleriyle temas kurularak onlardan tamamlayıcı şifahî bilgiler alınmıştır. Bu makale aracılığıyla ileride konuya ilişkin çalışma yapacak araştırmacılara sağlam bir hareket noktası temin edilmiş, ayrıca konuya ilgi duyan okuyuculara güvenilir bir başvuru kaynağı sunulmuştur.
Nascency of Physiopathological Activation by The Effect of Genomic Single Nucleotide Exchange Factor in The PNPLA3 rs738409 Genotype of Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Delik Anıl , Ülger Yakup
Published: December 2024

Background Patatin-like Phospholipase Domain-Containing 3 (PNPLA3) rs738409 is a genetic variant that is associated with an increased risk of developing hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in patients with chronic liver disease. This functional mechanism may cause liver cancer by altering protein function without affecting gene expression. Our aim in this study is to investigate the potential effect of PNPLA3 polymorphism on HCC development and to report its results. Material and Methodology A case-control study was designed involving 224 diagnosed and pathologically confirmed patients with HCC. Four groups were formed as ([HBV] n = 110, [HCV] n = 38, [other etiologies] n = 76) and 62 healthy controls. PNPLA3 genotyping in patients diagnosed with HCC was concluded by DNA isolation from blood samples. PNPLA3 rs738409 variant was genotyped in RT PCR device with Taq Man allelic separation test designed by the manufacturers according to protocols. The C nucleotide and G nucleotide were detected in VIC; FAM hydrolysis probes were used for genotyping and binding. SPSS program was used for statistical analysis. Results The PNPLA3 genotypes were determined for the groups of HBV-related HCC, HCV-related HCC, other etiologies-related HCC, and control. The HBV-related HCC group had CC (n = 58), CG (n = 36), and GG (n = 16) genotypes. The HCV-related HCC group had CC (n = 22), CG (n = 9), and GG (n = 7) genotypes. The other etiologies-related HCC group had CC (n = 35), CG (n = 26), and GG (n = 15) genotypes. The control group had CC (n = 36), CG (n = 13), and GG (n = 13) genotypes. Conclusions PNPLA3 rs738409 is an inherited risk factor for HCC development in chronic liver disease. Our study found that the GG genotype can directly activate liver cancer in other etiology groups. According to our findings, we think that PNPLA3 polymorphism can be used as a biomarker in the development of HCC due to other etiologies group.
Detection of Atrial Fibrillation with Custom Designed Wavelet-based Convolutional Autoencoder
Authors: Eravcı Öykü , Özkurt Nalan , Memiş Özlem , Şimşek Evrim
Published: December 2024

Remote monitoring of patients is of great importance in terms of early diagnosis of diseases and improving people's quality of life. With the rapid development of deep learning techniques, wearable health technologies have leaped forward. This has made the automatic diagnosis even more important. In this study, we provide a deep learning approach for classifying Atrial Fibrillation (AF) arrhythmia that uses a customized wavelet-based convolutional autoencoder (WCAE) model. WCAE is employed as an anomaly detector, which combines the time-frequency domain examination ability of wavelet and the data-driven feature learning capability of convolutional autoencoders. The proposed approach received average scores of 95.45%, 99.99%, 90.90%, and 95.23% for accuracy, precision, recall, and F1, respectively, on a large selection of publicly available datasets. The outcomes of the experiments demonstrate the significance of using deep learning-based models in diagnosing AF. Moreover, it is observed that utilization of wavelet methods along with autoencoder model has a great potential for biomedical signal processing systems.
Using Deep Learning Architectures For Skin Cancer Classification
Authors: Mohammed Bafreen , İnik Özkan
Published: December 2024

Since skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer, prompt diagnosis is essential to successful treatment. Impressive performance in image-based classification tasks has been demonstrated by convolutional neural networks (CNNs), particularly in recent years. In this study, the proposed CNN model was applied to the ISIC skin cancer classification challenge. A proposed deep learning model and four popular deep CNN models (ResNet, GoogleNet, AlexNet, and VGG16) were used to classify the skin cancer images. High levels of accuracy on test data from the ISIC dataset were achieved by the proposed CNN model, according to experimental results. Preprocessing was performed on images with sizes of 64x64, 100x100, 224x224, and 128x128 pixels. The experimental results show that the proposed CNN model achieved the highest accuracy rate of 86.76% on 128x128 size images.
The Effect of Substrate Dielectric Constant and Thickness on Millimeter Wave Band Patch Antenna Performance
Authors: Ermıs Seda
Published: December 2024

In last decade, the fifth generation of telecom network (5G) has been a new era as a result of fast-growing mobile industry. Unlike its predecessors, 5G will not only provide faster, better mobile broadband experience, but also broaden communication network with new services such as device-to-device communications or connecting IoT devices and users. For this purpose, 5G aims to achieve massive network capacity, ultra-low latency, higher data speed and greater network reliability. According to the report of ITU World Radiocommunication Conference 2019 (WRC-19), several new frequency bands between 20-70 GHz, were announced for allocation of 5G. Frequencies in the Ka-band (27-40 GHz) are particularly attractive due to their low atmospheric attenuation. At the specified frequency range i.e., millimeter wave band, antenna design for 5G applications is very crucial to provide high gain and efficiency as well as broadband communication which is indispensable for high-speed data traffic. At this point, Microstrip patch antennas, stand out amongst others because of their numerous attractive features. In this work, the effect of substrate dielectric constant and thickness to the Rectangular Microstrip Antenna (RMA) performance is examined for high frequency 5G applications. The RMA is designed to operate at 38 GHz and antenna performance has been analyzed according to various dielectric substrates, such as RT5880, RO3003, FR4, RT6006 and RT6010, considering different dielectric constants, thicknesses, and tangential losses. All designs and analyses have been accomplished by using ANSYS HFSS (High-Frequency Structure Simulator) and comparative results of the work are presented.
Synthesis and Characterization of Schiff Base Compounds Containing Mono and Disulfonic Groups
Authors: Kaya İsmet , Kolcu Feyza , Süel Sude
Published: December 2024

Aromatic mono- or diamine compounds containing sulfonic groups are extensively utilized in the production of textiles, dyes, and polymers. Schiff base compounds are synthesized through the condensation reactions of these types of compounds with aromatic aldehydes or ketones. Due to their multifunctional nature, these Schiff base compounds serve as precursors in the synthesis of poly(ester)s, poly(ether)s, poly(urethane)s, and poly(azomethine)s. The Schiff base compounds were 2,5-bis((E)-(2-hydroxybenzylidene)amino)benzene sulfonic acid (SCH1) and 4,4'-bis((E)-(2-hydroxybenzylidene)amino)-[1,1'-biphenyl]-2,2'-disulfonic acid (SCH2). The yields of SCH1 and SCH2 were calculated to be 85% and 80%, respectively. Structural confirmation was achieved using FT-IR, UV-Vis, 1H NMR and 13C NMR measurements. Further characterization through fluorescence spectroscopy (PL), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and cyclic voltammetry (CV) revealed high thermal stability of the compounds, attributed to the phenyl groups in their structures. TGA measurements indicated the initial decomposition temperatures for SCH1 and SCH2 at 298°C and 347 °C, respectively, with the residual masses of 34.64% and 41.24% at 1000 °C.
A study on chaotic dynamics of deep artificial neural network activated by biological neuron model
Authors: Erkan Erdem
Published: December 2024

This paper analyzes the effects of the chaotic signals used by the brain to perform some cognitive functions on the Spiking Neural Network (SNN), defined as the third-generation Artificial Neural Network (ANN) that best represents the biological neuron. In the first phase of the paper, neural networks with different layers are designed to perform classifications like ANN and SNN. Classification performances of these deep networks using the Rectified Linear Unit activation function in ANN mode and the Izhikevich Neuron model in SNN mode are presented comparatively. It is observed that SNNs perform at least as well as ANNs under normal conditions. In the second stage of the study, the classification performances of these deep networks in the SNN mode were analyzed in different chaotic environments, and the findings were reported. In light of the findings, it is seen that SNNs can exhibit a classification success similar to ANNs and maintain this success rate up to a certain chaotic current intensity. Moreover, some levels of chaotic current contribute to the network's classification performance. This is the first study to investigate the chaotic environment behavior of SNNs.
Unveiling the antioxidant secrets: Phytochemical profiling and bioactive potential of water extracts from Muğla propolis samples
Authors: Sarıkürkcü Cengiz
Published: December 2024

Propolis, a resinous substance collected by bees, is known for its diverse biological activities, including antioxidant properties, which are largely attributed to its phenolic and flavonoid content. This study aimed to investigate the chemical composition and antioxidant activities of water extracts from propolis samples collected from different locations in Muğla, Turkey. Total phenolic and flavonoid contents were quantified, and antioxidant activities were evaluated using various assays, including β-carotene bleaching, superoxide anion radical scavenging, DPPH radical scavenging, reducing power, and ferrous ion chelation. The total phenolic content of the samples ranged from 27.72 to 91.57 mg PEs/g extract, with Arpacık showing the highest phenolic content (91.57 mg PEs/g). In contrast, flavonoid content ranged from 9.33 to 25.78 mg QEs/g extract, with Fethiye exhibiting the highest value (25.78 mg QEs/g). The antioxidant assays revealed that the Fethiye extract consistently demonstrated the strongest activity, with a β-carotene inhibition rate of 96.73% and an IC50 of 49.50 μg/mL in the DPPH assay. Arpacık also showed considerable antioxidant capacity, albeit slightly lower than Fethiye, while the Dalaman and Döğüşbelen samples exhibited weaker activities. Correlation analysis indicated that total phenolic content had a strong positive correlation with DPPH scavenging (r = 0.994) and reducing power (r = 0.986), while flavonoid content was significantly correlated with superoxide anion scavenging (r = 0.931) and ferrous ion chelation (r = 0.894). These results suggest that phenolic and flavonoid compounds are key contributors to the antioxidant mechanisms in propolis. Future studies should explore the effects of different extraction methods and expand the geographical scope to better understand the factors influencing the bioactive composition of propolis.
Correction / Erratum Article
Authors: Tirtom Vedia Nüket , Özkafalı Fatma
Published: December 2024

The editorial board sincerely apologizes to the authors and readers of the journal for this technical error.

Best regards.
Evaluation of Pentraxin-3 and Interleukin-6 Levels in Serum and Gingival Crevicular Fluid in Patients with Generalized Periodontitis and Periodontal Health Controls Before and After Scaling and Root Planing
Authors: Yaghobee Siamak , Hasannia Sadegh , Hamidzadeh Fatemeh , Valadan Tahbaz Saman , Shahmohammadi Rojin , Poursafar Farzaneh
Published: December 2024

Objectives: Pentraxin-3 (PTX3) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) are two of the most important inflammatory cytokines produced by cells in periodontal tissues. The present study aims to evaluate the levels of PTX3 and IL-6 in serum and gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) in patients with generalized periodontitis stages II and III, grades A and B, and periodontal health individuals before and after scaling and root planing (SRP).
Materials and Methods: In this study, 22 patients with periodontitis (12 males and 10 females) and 22 periodontal health controls (11 males and 11 females) were selected. All patients underwent full-mouth SRP. Serum and GCF samples were collected before and one month after SRP. PTX3 and IL-6 levels in serum and GCF samples were evaluated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Data analysis was performed using Mann-Whitney U and Wilcoxon tests (P<0.05).
Results: Serum levels of PTX3 were significantly higher in the periodontitis group than the controls (P<0.05). GCF PTX3 levels and serum and GCF IL-6 levels were not significantly different between the groups. Furthermore, this study did not show any significant changes in the levels of these cytokines before and after SRP.
Conclusion: Among the studied cytokines and media, only serum PTX3 levels showed a significant difference between periodontitis patients and healthy controls and could serve as a diagnostic marker of periodontal inflammation. SRP did not affect the levels of these cytokines, suggesting that other inflammatory factors may be involved in disease process. However, additional longitudinal prospective studies are needed to confirm these results.
Clinical Analysis of Modified Extended Endoscopic Sinus Surgery for Chronic Rhinosinusitis with Nasal Polyps and Allergic Rhinitis
Authors: Zou Can , Guan Dayu , Liu Lei , Chen Qian , Ke Xia , Liu Jie , Shen Yang , Yang Yucheng
Published: December 2024

Extended endoscopic sinus surgery (EESS) can reduce the recurrence rate of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of the application of modified “protective middle turbinate-EESS” (mEESS) on patients with CRS with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) and allergic rhinitis (AR).
Forty-three patients with CRSwNP and AR were classified into 2 groups, the mEESS group (n=23) and the functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) group (n=20), and were followed up for 6 months and 1 year after surgery. The disease severity was assessed by the Lund-Mackay score, the Lund-Kennedy score, and the visual analog scale (VAS) score. The patency rate of the frontal sinus was evaluated by endoscopy. Patient satisfaction was also followed up.
No preoperative differences or postoperative complications were found between the 2 groups. The VAS score and Lund-Kennedy score of the 2 groups were lower at 6 months and 1 year after surgery. The olfactory function of the mEESS group was significantly better than that of the FESS group at 6 months post-operative. The patency rate of the frontal sinus orifice in the mEESS group was significantly higher than that in the FESS group at 6 months and 1 year post-operative. Patient satisfaction in the mEESS group was relatively higher than that in the FESS group.
mEESS improves frontal sinus drainage, olfactory sense, and patient satisfaction in the short term.
Increased Cytotoxic CD4+ T Cells with Reduced Cytotoxic Gene Profile Expression in Cytomegalovirus Reactivated Kidney Transplant Patients
Authors: Hassanzadeh Yashgin , Yaghobi Ramin , Pakzad Parviz , Geramizadeh Bita
Published: December 2024

Cytotoxic CD4+ T cells eliminate human cytomegalovirus (HCMV)-infected cells through direct cytotoxic granules exocytosis. We aimed to evaluate the functional cytotoxic gene profile of CD4+ T cells alongside the frequency of the cytotoxic phenotype in renal transplant recipients with cytomegalovirus reactivation.
Blood samples were collected from twenty renal recipients with and without HCMV reactivation (HCMV+ and HCMV- groups) and ten healthy adults (control group). CD4+ T cells were isolated to assess the frequency of cytotoxic CD4+ T cells via CD107a surface staining using flow cytometry and to evaluate gene expression of perforin, granzyme B, Runt-related transcription factor 3 (RUNX3), and Eomesodermin (Eomes) by quantitative PCR.
The frequency of CD4+ CD107a+ T cells was higher in the HCMV+ group compared to the HCMV- group and significantly higher than in the control group (22.69 ± 3.47 vs 16.41 ± 2.24 and 11.60 ± 1.17, respectively). Perforin gene levels were reduced in the HCMV+ group compared to the other two groups, while granzyme B gene levels were similar between HCMV+ and HCMV- groups but lower than in the control group (0.63 ± 1.24 vs 0.67 ± 2.27 and 1.00 ± 0.00, respectively).
This study demonstrated an increased frequency of cytotoxic CD4+ T cells with potentially reduced functionality in kidney transplant patients with HCMV infection. It also suggests that these cells might employ other mechanisms, such as death receptor-mediated killing, or the production of other granules.
Effect of Exercise, MitoQ, and Their Combination on Inflammatory and Gene Expression in Women with Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Alifarsangi Atena , Khaksari Mohammad , Seifaddini Rostam
Published: December 2024

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease affecting the central nervous system. Current treatments aim to manage symptoms and slow disease progression, but there is a need for effective interventions that target underlying disease mechanisms. In this study, we investigated the effects of exercise, MitoQ (a mitochondria-targeted antioxidant), and their combination on the gene expression of various biomarkers associated with MS in postmenopausal and premenopausal women.
We measured interleukin-6 (IL-6) and key molecular pathways involved in MS pathogenesis, including suppressor of mother against decapentaplegic 2 (SMAD2), signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 (STAT1), and transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) using real-time polymerase chain reaction.
All interventions significantly lowered IL-6 levels and STAT1, especially in premenopausal women. Also, both exercise and MitoQ led to a significant increase in the SMAD2 and TGF-β expression, with a more pronounced effect on premenopausal women. Noteworthy, the effectiveness of the combination of exercise and MitoQ was considerably higher than each one alone.
These findings suggest that exercise and MitoQ, either alone or combined, can modulate various biological pathways implicated in MS pathogenesis.
Ameliorative Effect of Melittin Encoded DNA Plasmid in an Ovalbumin-induced Murine Model of Allergy
Authors: Gouvarchinghaleh Hadi Esmaeili , Biregani Ali Farhadi , Doosti Abbas , Taheri Ramezan Ali , Mirzaei Morteza , Zahiri Ali , Farnoosh Gholamreza
Published: December 2024

Melittin is a natural toxin used in traditional medicine as an anti-inflammatory drug. It seems that the anti-inflammatory properties of melittin are caused by suppressing the expression of inflammatory genes and inhibiting signaling pathways. However, the use of melittin is limited due to instability, rapid degradation, and impurity. The aim of this study was to investigate the intranasal administration of a melittin-encoded plasmid as a new melittin delivery method for allergic diseases.
After the induction of a mouse model of allergic rhinitis, mice received intranasal melittin plasmid. After the final challenge with allergen and allergic symptom assessment, the required samples were collected, and transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β), interferon-gamma (IFN-γ), and interleukin-4 (IL-4) cytokine levels, serum levels of ovalbumin-specific immunoglobulin (Ig) E and histopathological changes were assessed. In addition to investigating the immune response, the effect of melittin on the expression level of genes involved in apoptosis was also investigated.
The melittin plasmid significantly improved nasal symptoms and decreased eosinophil infiltration into the nasal mucosa. Moreover, melittin decreased the expression levels of IL-4 and TGF-β in nasal lavage fluid, while IFN-γ expression was increased. Regarding the expression level of genes involved in apoptosis, melittin led to an increase in BAX mRNA expression.
These results suggest intranasal administration of a plasmid encoding melittin can suppress nasal symptoms, eosinophil infiltration, and immunomodulation of the immune response, which can be considered a promising approach in the treatment of inflammatory diseases.
A Novel Prognostic Immune-related Gene Signature in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Through Bioinformatics and Experimental Approaches
Authors: Pourbagheri-Sigaroodi Atieh , Momeny Majid , Rezaei Nima , Fallah Fatemeh , Bashash Davood
Published: December 2024

Despite therapeutic advancements, treatment failure in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) continues to pose a significant obstacle. Given the vital role of the tumor immune microenvironment (TIM) in HCC and the promising effectiveness of immune therapies, we aimed to elucidate potential predictive biomarkers by developing a prognostic model based on immune-related genes (IRGs).
After obtaining data, differentially expressed IRGs were identified, and prognostic models were developed using Cox regression analyses. Key contributors of the model were identified and the results were validated by experimental assays in HCC cell lines.
Our eight-IRG signature can serve as an independent prognostic factor in HCC. The low-risk group exhibited superior overall survival and lower tumor mutation burden (TMB). The high-risk group showed elevated proportions of immune cells, including regulatory T cells and resting CD4+ memory T cells. We found that the NEAT1-C1/miR-542-5p/BIRC5 regulatory network may serve as a potential target in HCC. The experimental investigations showed that BIRC5 inhibition reduced the metabolic activity in four HCC cell lines.
The results of this study facilitate patient stratification and the development of more effective treatment strategies, particularly for high-risk HCC patients.
MicroRNA-486-3p Targets Chymotrypsin C to Regulate Pancreatic Cancer Progression and Immunosuppressive Factor Expression
Authors: Tao Yong , Chu Chengniu , Sun Dongjun , Xiang Junfeng , Wu Bo , LI Cong , Cui Wei
Published: December 2024

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a common digestive system tumor with high mortality rates and a poor prognosis. Reports suggest that microRNA (miR)-486-3p in PDAC can be used as a diagnostic biomarker. This research aimed to elucidate the mechanisms by which miR-486-3p regulates PDAC progression.
miR-486-3p and chymotrypsin C (CTRC) expression in PDAC were measured using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. Changes in the biological properties of PDAC cells were assessed by Transwell assay, scratch-wound assay, cell counting kit (CCK)-8 assay, and plate cloning assay. The protein expression of immunosuppressive factors (vascular endothelial growth factor, interleukin-6, and transforming growth factor-β) in PDAC cells was detected by western blot. Additionally, a subcutaneous graft tumor model was constructed to explore the influence of silencing miR-486-3p on PDAC in vivo.
PDAC showed a pronounced increase in miR-486-3p expression. Upregulation of miR-486-3p stimulated PDAC cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and immunosuppressive factor protein expression, whereas silencing miR-486-3p hindered PDAC malignant development. miR-486-3p targets and negatively regulates CTRC expression. Silencing CTRC partially rescued the restraining impact of silencing miR-486-3p on PDAC malignant progression. In vivo experiments also indicated that silencing miR-486-3p inhibited PDAC malignant progression and immunosuppressive factor expression in vivo.
In summary, miR-486-3p promotes immunosuppressive factor protein expression by targeting and negatively regulating CTRC expression, which in turn promotes PDAC malignant progression.
How Hospitalizations Can Be Effective in Subsequent Care of Children with Asthma?
Authors: Sharafian Samin , Fard Ghasem Barjouei , Atabakzadeh Maryam , Movahedi Masoud , Parvaneh Nima , Shariat Mansoureh , Gharagozlou Mohammad
Published: December 2024

Asthma is a prevalent chronic inflammatory disorder in children, and poor therapeutic response in asthmatic children could result from various factors related to the physician, patient, disease, and treatment. This study aimed to evaluate the most important causes of failure in asthma control.
One hundred three children referred to the Children’s Medical Center in Tehran, Iran, participated in this study in 2017. A specific questionnaire was organized and completed by telephone interviews with parents.
The mean age of participants was 10.30 years, and 68.9% were male. More action plans (45/53) were received from hospitalized patients in the asthma and allergy ward than from hospitalized patients in the emergency department (13/46). Moreover, 85% of admitted patients in the asthma and allergy ward were visited by a specialist compared with 50% in the emergency department (23/46).
Hospitalization in the asthma and allergy ward resulted in receiving more action plans, spirometry tests, and visits by an allergist after discharge compared with admission to the emergency department.
Association of Toxoplasmosis with Serum TGF-β, IL-17, and IL-6 Levels in Individuals with Diabetes
Authors: Dabirzadeh Mansour , Ghoryani Mohsen , Poursamimi Javad , Fouladi Bahman
Published: December 2024

Cytokines play an essential role in regulating the interaction of immune cells in diabetes and infections such as toxoplasmosis. The purpose of this study was to examine the serum levels of interleukin (IL)-6, IL-17, and transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) in patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus with toxoplasmosis, and to explore their inter-relationship.
Forty patients with diabetes mellitus, including 20 with type 1 and 20 with type 2, as well as 20 healthy subjects, voluntarily participated in the study. Each subject provided 5 mL of peripheral blood for enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.
Subjects with type 2 diabetes mellitus who also had toxoplasmosis showed a significant increase in TGF-β levels and a decrease in IL-6 levels. In contrast, patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus displayed a slight increase in IL-6 and IL-17 levels compared to both the patients with type 2 diabetes and the healthy control group.
Our findings show an increase in TGF-β and a decrease in IL-6, which may suggest a reduction in inflammation and beta cell destruction in individuals with type 2 diabetes and toxoplasmosis. The elevated serum levels of IL-6 and IL-17 in individuals with type 1 diabetes further support the exacerbation of inflammation.
A Serial Mediation Model of Perceived Social Class and Cyberbullying: The Role of Subjective Vitality in Friendship Relations and Psychological Distress
Authors: Samadieh Hadi , Khamesan Ahmad
Published: December 2024

Objective: The link between individuals' perceptions of social class (PSC) and various forms of bullying, including cyberbullying, has not been extensively studied. Additionally, the mechanisms through which PSC impact aggressive behaviors like cyberbullying remain unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the influence of perceived social class on cyberbullying, considering subjective vitality and psychological distress as serial mediators.
Method: Utilizing a cross-sectional design, the research involved 584 Iranian students (Mage = 20.59, SD = 1.99) from several universities who completed questionnaires assessing Subjective Social Class (SSC), Subjective Vitality Scale (SVS), Psychological Distress Scale (K6), and Cyberbullying Involvement Scale (CIS). Hayes' PROCESS macro (Model 6) in SPSS was employed to analyze the chain mediation effects.
Results: The Results demonstrated that the direct impact of PSC on cyberbullying was significant (Effect = -0.229, 95% CI: -0.294 to -0.164). Subjective vitality and psychological distress serially mediated the link between PSC and cyberbullying (Effect = -0.022, 95% CI: -0.035 to -0.012). In addition, both subjective vitality (Effect = -0.046, 95% CI: -0.080 to -0.017), and psychological distress (Effect = -0.09, 95% CI: -0.123 to -0.059), independently mediated the association between PSC and cyberbullying.
Conclusion: This research not only broadens the theoretical understanding of how individuals' perceptions of their social rank influence cyberbullying behaviors, but also provides actionable strategies for officials and experts to deploy effective interventions in higher education to mitigate cyberbullying.
Investigating the Relationships between Internet Addiction and Suicidal Ideation in Adolescent Girls
Authors: Akbari Zeynab , Serjouie Fatemeh , Yaztappeh Jafar Sarani , Turkzadeh Mohammad Hossein , Ziaei Faeze , Bagheri Ali , Zohd Maryam Sate , Kianimoghadam Amir Sam
Published: December 2024

Objective: Suicidal ideation (SI) signifies a psychiatric crisis, and individuals with SI are at a significantly higher risk of suicide attempts compared to those without. According to previous research, three factors that affect SI in adolescent girls are externalization problems, alexithymia, and perceived social support (PSS). As a result, the present research aimed to examine whether internet addiction (IA) is associated with SI through the mediating roles of PSS, externalizing problems, and alexithymia among adolescent girls in Tehran, Iran.
Method: The current correlational study employed a structural equation modeling approach. Model fit indices such as the Chi-square to degrees of freedom ratio (CMIN/DF), normed fit index (NFI), root mean square error of approximation (RMSEA), Tucker-Lewis index (TLI), and goodness-of-fit index (CFI) were reported to assess the model’s adequacy.
A total of 441 adolescent girls were selected from high school and between the ages of 11 and 19 using a convenience sampling method. Participants completed the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS), the Beck Scale for Suicidal Ideation (BSSI), the Cell-Phone Over-Use Scale (COS), the Youth Self-Report (YSR), and the Toronto Alexithymia Scale-20 (TAS-20) in a written manner. Data analysis was done using SPSS 25 and AMOS 22.
Results: Results revealed a significant positive correlation between IA and SI (P < 0.001). The study's most significant findings indicate that PSS, externalizing problems, and alexithymia significantly mediate the relationship between SI and IA. The coefficient of determination for the SI variable was 0.33, which means that predictor variables can explain 33% of the variance in SI (IA, PSS, alexithymia, and externalizing problems).
Conclusion: IA showed direct and indirect effects on SI. Using these findings, we can elucidate the mechanism of how IA affects individual SI, providing critical information for the development and implementation of targeted strategies and interventions to reduce SI among Iranian adolescent girls. Psychological interventions that address the role of externalizing behaviors, alexithymia, and PSS in adolescents with IA may help reduce SI.
Validity and Reliability Assessment of the Arabic Version of the Social and Emotional Competencies Questionnaire in a Moroccan Nursing Student Population
Authors: Ksiksou Jamal , Maskour Lhoussaine , Alaoui Smail , Bouali Rahma
Published: December 2024

Objective: The Social and Emotional Competencies Questionnaire (SEC-Q) represents one of the existing tests for assessing these competences in students. The purpose of the present research was to examine the psychometric properties of the SEC-Q in Moroccan nursing students.
Method: A sample of 320 Moroccan nursing students, including 190 women and 130 men, was selected using a stratified convenience sampling method. Methodology consisted of forward and backward translations, linguistic adaptation, and pilot revision. Structural validity was investigated using exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). Reliability was assessed through test-retest analysis using Pearson's correlation.
Results: Factor analyses produced a four-factor version of 16 items with a range of factor loadings from 0.72 to 0.89. Cronbach's alpha values were 0.92 for the self-awareness factor, 0.91 for the self-management factor, 0.90 for the social awareness factor, and 0.92 for the decision-making factor. These high values indicate excellent reliability. The test-retest coefficient for a 20-day interval between two assessments gave an rtt value of 0.92, demonstrating excellent response reliability. A strong correlation between the SECQ-AV, WLEIS and PSS-CP was found, demonstrating satisfactory convergent and divergent validity (P < 0.05).
Conclusion: The Arabic version of SECQ demonstrated its validity and reliability for assessing social and emotional competencies in Moroccan nursing students. However, the sample selected was drawn from a single nursing training institute, which limits the representativeness of the entire student population, and makes it difficult to generalize the results. A cross-sectional study will therefore produce much more varied results, by including a very large sample from different regions and different nursing training institutes in Morocco.
Arabic Version of the Leahy Emotional Schemas Scale-II
Authors: Fathy Magda Ghassan , Mandoob Khaled Jamal
Published: December 2024

Objective: This study aimed to translate the Leahy Emotional Schemas Scale-II (LESS-II) into Arabic and validate its psychometric properties among Iraqi university students. The hypothesis was that the Arabic version would retain the original factor structure and demonstrate robustness and validity.
Method: The process involved translation, cultural adaptation, backward translation, and the bilingual method to ensure linguistic and cultural relevance. The sample consisted of 280 Iraqi university students (64% female, 36% male). Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) and Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) were conducted to assess the factor structure. Reliability was tested using Cronbach’s alpha and test-retest methods.
Results: EFA identified a 14-factor structure aligned with Leahy’s model, accounting for 91.83% of the total variance. CFA confirmed a good model fit (RMSEA = 0.08, CFI = 0.93, TLI = 0.90). The total scale’s reliability (Cronbach’s alpha) was 0.82, with test-retest reliability at 0.87. Pearson correlations indicated significant relationships between LESS-II factors, anxiety, and depression, supporting construct validity.
Conclusion: The Arabic LESS-II was established as a valid and reliable tool for assessing emotional schemas. However, the study's reliance on a nonclinical sample limits generalizability. Future research should validate the scale in diverse and clinical populations, highlighting its potential utility in Arabic-speaking contexts for both research and clinical practice.
Advancing Sustainable Energy: Prospects of Bio-Methanol and E-Methanol from Sewage Sludge and Solid Wastes
Authors: Hatami Behnam , Ebrahimi Ali Asghar , Hosseini Mina
Published: December 2024

The Article Abstract is not available.
The Impact of Electromagnetic Field Exposure on Diabetes: A Narrative Review
Authors: Dehaghi Behzad Fouladi , Shekarloo Masoomeh Vahabi , Golbaghi Ameneh , Ghavamabadi Leila Ibrahimi
Published: December 2024

Introduction: This literature review investigates the complex relationship between electromagnetic fields (EMFs) and diabetes, highlighting both therapeutic potentials and associated health risks. Emerging evidence suggests that exposure to specific types of EMFs, particularly pulsed EMFs (PEMF), may enhance insulin sensitivity and promote healing in diabetic patients.
Materials and Methods: Studies have indicated significant improvements in microvascular blood flow and pancreatic function, suggesting a potential role for EMF therapy in diabetes management. Conversely, prolonged exposure to high-frequency EMFs, such as those that cell phones emanate and wireless devices, raises concerns regarding their impact on glucose metabolism.
Results: A correlation was observed between chronic EMF exposure and increased insulin resistance, oxidative stress, and disruptions in hormonal balance, which can exacerbate hyperglycemia. Mechanistic insights reveal that elevated levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and alterations in cortisol and glucagon levels may contribute to these adverse effects.
Conclusion: Despite the promising therapeutic applications of certain EMFs, the existing literature presents significant variability in methodologies, limiting the generalizability of findings. Future research should focus on large-scale, longitudinal studies that encompass diverse populations to clarify the long-term effects of EMF exposure on diabetes. This review underscores the need for a balanced approach to EMF exposure, recognizing both its potential benefits and risks for individuals with diabetes, thereby informing clinical practices and public health policies.
Modification of Agricultural Waste Carbon Adsorbents with Iron and Iron Oxide Nanoparticles for Heavy Metals Removal: A Scoping Review of the Literature
Authors: Karzegar Sahar , Abedi Mohammad , Salmani Mohammad Javad , Askrishahi Mohsen , Babaei Fatemah , Salmani Mohammad Hossein
Published: December 2024

Introduction: Considering the damage caused by heavy metal pollution, researchers and environmental health organizations have prioritized developing methods to remove heavy metal ions from polluted water. This study reviews existing literature on the use of agricultural waste, as well as the modification of agricultural waste with iron and iron oxides, for heavy metal removal.
Materials and Methods: The systematic review included a search for relevant literature published between 2000 and 2022 in English, with 45 articles being selected for inclusion. After removal of duplicates and screening for eligibility, thematic analysis was conducted to evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of practical, economic methods for preparing and modifying agricultural waste for heavy metal removal.
Results: A total of 45 articles were selected for inclusion, covering the preparation and modification of adsorbents from cellulose sources and agricultural waste. Thematic analysis revealed that agricultural waste is an environmentally friendly adsorbent with a high capacity for removing cadmium, lead, and arsenic from aqueous solutions. Moreover, modified adsorbents with iron and iron oxide nanoparticles demonstrated superior adsorption capacities compared to their unmodified counterparts.
Conclusion: This review highlights the potential of utilizing cellulose sources, particularly processed fruit waste, as a suitable material for preparing carbon-based adsorbents and modifying their surfaces with iron and iron oxide nanoparticles. Their abundance, adsorption capacity, low cost, and availability make them a promising solution for removing heavy metals from aqueous solutions.
Temporal Changes Trend in External-Origin Dust in Arid Cities of Iran
Authors: Ebrahimi-Khusfi Zohre , Soltanianzadeh Zahra
Published: December 2024

Introduction: Dust storms in arid regions lead to air pollution that jeopardizes human health and the environment. Monitoring the temporal and spatial variations of these events is crucial for mitigating their risks.
Materials and Methods: This study analyzed dust events in Iran, classifying them as internal (coded 07, 30-35, 98) and external (coded 06). The frequency of each dust type was calculated for every city, and the proportion of internal and external dust events was determined. Then, the contributions of both internal and external dust sources were examined in Iranian arid cities. Finally, using Mann-Kendall test, the study analyzed changes in external-origin dust in these cities.
Results: Over 58% of recorded dust events originated from external sources. Significant increases in external dust frequency were found in most months for Tabas, Kashan, and Bandar Abbas (|Z statistic| > 1.96), while significant decreases were observed in Bam, Zahedan, and Iranshahr ((|Z statistic| > 1.96). A seasonal increase in external dust was prevalent in 72%, 7%, 58.6%, and 62.1% of Iranian cities during winter, spring, summer, and autumn, respectively. Annually, 75.9% of the cities experienced rising levels of external dust, while 17.2% faced decreasing trends.
Conclusion: The results can be used as an efficient tool to improve management policies and programs in order to reduce the negative effects of dust on the environment and community health in dusty urban areas.
The Impact of Pesticides Exposure on Thyroid Function in Rafsanjan Farmers in 2023-2024: A Case-Control Study
Authors: Salehipour Sadegh , Saedi Alireza , Assadollahi Zahra , Lotfi Mohammad Amin , Rahmani Mohammadreza , Nosratabadi Faezeh , Falahati-pour Soudeh Khanamani , Eslami Hadi , Azin Mahdieh
Published: December 2024

Introduction: Pesticides, particularly highly toxic organophosphates, are widely used in agriculture and can disrupt the endocrine system. This study aims to determine thyroid function indicators in agricultural workers exposed to pesticides in Rafsanjan city, Iran, in 2023.
Material and Methods: This 10-month (from March 2023 to January 2024) case-control study involved 150 participants (men farmers) divided into three groups: pesticide-spraying farmers, rural non-farmers, and urban non-exposed individuals. Socio-demographic information, medical history, and lifestyle factors data were collected by a detailed checklist. Thyroid enzyme levels, including thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), total triiodothyronine (TT3), total thyroxine (TT4), and free thyroxine (FT4) were tested by ELISA kits. The collected data were analyzed and compared across the groups by one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), chi-square and Pearson's correlation coefficient.
Results: Significant differences were observed in serum levels of thyroid function indicators such as TSH, Total T4, and Free T4 among the three groups (spraying farmers, rural residents near pistachio orchards, and urban residents), except for Total T3, which showed no significant difference. Moreover, there was a relationship between thyroid function variables in the spraying group and factors such as using personal protective equipment (PPE), days of spraying per year, hours of spraying per day, distance from home to pistachio orchards, and levels of pesticide exposure. However, these relationships were not statistically significant.
Conclusion: The study found no significant effect of pesticide exposure on thyroid function, possibly due to minimal skin contact and equipment maintenance practices among farmers. Further investigations are recommended
Studies on Bio-denitrification of Wastewater Using Immobilized GAC in Draft Tube Spouted Bed Reactor
Authors: Joshi Keshava , Navalgund Lokeshwari , Shet Vinayaka B.
Published: December 2024

Introduction: The draft tube-spouted bed bioreactor with GAC particles immobilized with Pseudomonas syringae is being evaluated to study the effect of suspended biomass and biofilm thickness on the rate of denitrification. Though the biofilm thickness is not directly controlled in wastewater treatment by the diffusion limitation and consequent substrate penetration in the biofilm, biofilm thickness will probably have a significant impact on bacteriological activity.
Materials and Methods: The reactor studies were accomplished to study the result of dilution rate on attached biomass, suspended biomass, and biofilm thickness with nitrate reduction under steady-state conditions. A spouted bed reactor with the growth media prepared was used to study the bio-denitrification using Pseudomonas syringae.
Results: The study of the attached biomass on nitrate reduction indicated that, as the attached biomass increased from 0.35 g/g to 0.54 g/g at a 0.166/h dilution rate, the nitrate reduction percentage decreased from 98.18% to 88.2%. During the study, it was observed that the biomass and biofilm thickness increased and decreased, respectively, with a rise in influent nitrate concentration and dilution rate. The rise in dilution rate as well as influent nitrate concentration throughout the study increased the rate of suspended biomass.
Conclusion: The nitrate reduction rate was high with higher rates of loading in a draft tube spouted bed bioreactor, due to well-organized recirculation of the solids inside the reactor. The formation of biofilm thickness on solids is a significant character as it increases the nitrate reduction rate to meet the effluent standards
Protecting Public Health Rights in Yazd Province: Prioritizing Challenges and Solutions
Authors: Hosseini Saeed , Bahrevar Vali , Nodoushan Zahra Naqibi , Mousavi Seyed Masood
Published: December 2024

Introduction: The right to health is one of the fundamental human rights, which includes access to healthcare services, suitable living conditions, and a healthy environment. In Iran, this right is clearly stated in the Constitution and key documents, and the government is responsible for providing these services to all individuals. In Yazd Province, a committee for the protection of people's rights in health has been established to identify the challenges and implementation problems in this area. This research has been conducted qualitatively and quantitatively to identify and prioritize issues related to individuals’ health rights in Yazd Province.