Neurological consequences after portosystemic shunt attenuation in cats: A meta-analysis study.

Neurological symptoms that occur after treatment of portosystemic shunts, in cats, known as post-attenuation neurological signs (PANS) can be quite severe. This study seeks to analyze a better understanding of the neurological outcomes that result from reducing portosystemic shunts in felines and provide insights that could guide future clinical approaches and treatment strategies for congenital portosystemic shunts (CPSS).The research utilized the MOOSE Checklist as a guide. PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science ScienceDirect, Embase, Scopus, ProQuest, and Google Scholar were used. The study investigated diversity using variance, Cochran Q tests with Applied fixed effects, and random effects models. A meta-regression model identified contributors. Eggers test funnel plot and Beggs test for asymmetry addressed publication bias. 12 high-quality studies were discovered from 664 research papers. This research covered years, shunt morphology, and surgery. PANS occurred 38.9 % of the time in cats, while PAS occurred 20.2 %. The overall PANS mortality rate was 17 %, while PAS was 37.2 %. The complete ligation technique was most common in subgroup analysis. PANS occurrence ranged from 26.8 % to 56.5 % in cats with congenital extrahepatic portosystemic shunts The cause of PANS in cats is still unknown, and there is only limited evidence to justify the use of preventive antiepileptic medications such as levetiracetam. The treatment primarily aims to control neurologic symptoms, and the long-term outlook varies, with the potential for the reappearance of symptoms.

AI chatbots in pet health care: Opportunities and challenges for owners.

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into health care has seen remarkable advancements, with applications extending to animal health. This article explores the potential benefits and challenges associated with employing AI chatbots as tools for pet health care. Focusing on ChatGPT, a prominent language model, the authors elucidate its capabilities and its potential impact on pet owners' decision-making processes. AI chatbots offer pet owners access to extensive information on animal health, research studies and diagnostic options, providing a cost-effective and convenient alternative to traditional veterinary consultations. The fate of a case involving a Border Collie named Sassy demonstrates the potential benefits of AI in veterinary medicine. In this instance, ChatGPT played a pivotal role in suggesting a diagnosis that led to successful treatment, showcasing the potential of AI chatbots as valuable tools in complex cases. However, concerns arise regarding pet owners relying solely on AI chatbots for medical advice, potentially resulting in misdiagnosis, inappropriate treatment and delayed professional intervention. We emphasize the need for a balanced approach, positioning AI chatbots as supplementary tools rather than substitutes for licensed veterinarians. To mitigate risks, the article proposes strategies such as educating pet owners on AI chatbots' limitations, implementing regulations to guide AI chatbot companies and fostering collaboration between AI chatbots and veterinarians. The intricate web of responsibilities in this dynamic landscape underscores the importance of government regulations, the educational role of AI chatbots and the symbiotic relationship between AI technology and veterinary expertise. In conclusion, while AI chatbots hold immense promise in transforming pet health care, cautious and informed usage is crucial. By promoting awareness, establishing regulations and fostering collaboration, the article advocates for a responsible integration of AI chatbots to ensure optimal care for pets.

An updated systematic review and Meta-analysis of the prevalence of type 2 diabetes in Iran, 1996-2023.

Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) poses a significant threat to public health, and the anticipated surge of over 100% in the age-standardized prevalence of type 2 diabetes in Iran between 2021 and 2050 underscores the pressing need for focused attention. The rationale for estimating the prevalence of type 2 diabetes in Iran becomes even more compelling when considering the potential cascading effects on the healthcare system, quality of life, and economic burden. The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence and trends of DM from 1996 to 2023 in the Islamic Republic of Iran. Methods: Up to July 2023, without deadlines, the search for appropriate articles in Persian and English. Iranian sources including SID, Magiran, and Element were included in the databases, along with foreign ones like PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science, Science Direct, Embase, Scopus, ProQuest, and Google Scholar. Using the JBI quality checklist, the study's level of quality was evaluated. Version 14 of STATA was used to carry out the statistical analysis. The Dersimonian and Liard random-effects models were used because of heterogeneity. To investigate the causes of heterogeneity, subgroup analysis and univariate meta-regression were utilized. Sensitivity analysis was then carried out to see how each study's findings affected the final findings. The prevalence pattern over time was also followed using cumulative meta-analysis. Results: There were 53 studies in all, with a combined sample size of 1,244,896 people. Men were predicted to have a type 2 diabetes prevalence of 10.80% (95% CI: 9.1-12.4), while women were assessed to have a prevalence of 13.4% (95% CI: 11.6-15.3). Additionally, the prevalence of diabetes was much higher in the 55-64 age group, coming in at 21.7% (95% CI: 17.5-25.0). The anticipated prevalence of diabetes was 7.08% for 1988 to 2002, 9.05% for 2003 to 2007, 9.14% for 2008 to 2012, 15.0% for 2013 to 2017, and 13.40% for 2018 to 2023, among other time periods. Geographically, type 2 diabetes was most prevalent in Khuzestan (15.3%), followed by Razavi Khorasan (14.4%), Qazvin (14.3%), and Yazd (12.6%). Conclusion: The prevalence of type 2 diabetes was estimated at 10.8%, highlighting variations across gender, age groups, and geographic regions that underscore the necessity for specific interventions. These findings advocate for proactive measures, including tailored screening and lifestyle modification programs. The notable temporal increase from 2013 to 2017 signals the need for policymakers and healthcare practitioners to develop effective strategies, anticipating and addressing the potential future burden on the healthcare system. Systematic Review Registration: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42023437506, identifier: CRD42023437506.

Prevalence of Anaplasma, Ehrlichia and Rickettsia infections in dogs in Iran: A meta-analysis study.

The current study aims to assess the prevalence of different genera of Rickettsiales, intracellular bacteria, in dogs across various regions of Iran. Rickettsiales, as zoonotic pathogens, can have various manifestations in different species, including immunosuppression, anaemia and neuropathy. Due to their close interactions with people and livestock, dogs can serve as reservoirs and transmit these pathogens to humans and other animals. The data from this research can be valuable for managing and controlling related diseases and complications in Iran and possibly neighbouring countries. Pertinent data for this study was gathered without time limitations until 1 March 2022, from different databases. Of all the inspected studies, 26 were eligible based on the inclusion criteria. The Egger test result and asymmetry in the funnel plot revealed significant publication bias; therefore, the meta-analysis model was corrected with the trim-and-fill method. After correction, the prevalence of rickettsial infections among dogs varies by genus - 20.1% for Anaplasma spp. and 10% for Ehrlichia spp. - with an overall prevalence estimated at 18.3% by random-effects analysis. The highest and lowest estimated pooled prevalences were associated with the southwestern (38.5%) and southern (0.3%) provinces of Iran, respectively. The pooled prevalence of rickettsial infection was higher in female dogs (OR = 1.198; p < 0.978; 95% CI, 0.842-1.705) and in dogs ≤2 years (OR = 1.014; p < 0.312; 95% CI, 0.598-1.72), but the difference was not statistically significant. Ultimately, the pooled prevalence of rickettsial infections among dogs is relatively low compared to other countries like Qatar, Iraq, Saudi Arabia and Turkey, which are nearby Iran. Given the significant clinical outcomes of this disease, necessary measures for prevention should be taken.

Systematic review and meta-analysis of knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding COVID-19 among chronic disease patients: A global perspective.

Background: Chronic health conditions were significantly correlated with an increased clinical severity of coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) and a heightened risk of COVID-19 mortality. This study aims to determine global knowledge, attitudes, and practices (Knowledge Abuse Profile) of the patients with chronic diseases toward COVID-19. Methods: The study was initiated in December 2019 and extended until April 2023, during which an extensive search for relevant English-language literature was conducted as part of this systematic review and meta-analysis. Google Scholar, Scopus, PubMed/MEDLINE, Science Direct, Web of Science, EMBASE, Springer, and ProQuest were utilized for the search. The quality of included studies was assessed using a quality rating checklist created by Joanna Briggs Institute for cross-sectional research. In the STATA software version 14, inverse variance and Cochran Q statistics were used for statistical analysis to assess heterogeneity among the studies. The Dersimonian and Liard random-effects models were applied in cases where heterogeneity existed. Results: A total of 23 studies involving 14,587 patients contributed to this meta-analysis. These studies comprised 21 studies focused on knowledge, with 6864 participants, 12 studies on attitudes involving 3597 patients, and 12 on practices, encompassing 4126 patients. The pooled estimates for sufficient knowledge, positive attitudes, and COVID-19 preventive behaviors among chronic disease patients were determined as 48.2% (95% confidence interval [95% CI]: 33.9%-62.5%), 60.8% (95% CI: 46.8%-74.8%), and 58.3% (95% CI: 39.5%-77.0%), respectively. Over the years, there was a consistent decrease in adequate knowledge, positive attitudes, and COVID-19 preventive behaviors among the population. Specifically, regarding knowledge, the rates declined from 50.2% in 2020 to 49.7% in 2021 and dropped to 45.1%. Similarly, the percentage of individuals with a positive attitude fell, decreasing from 64.1% in 2020 to 60.3% in 2021 and dropping to 57.9% in 2022. Furthermore, COVID-19 preventive behaviors showed fluctuations, with the rates recorded at 63.7% in 2020, increasing to 75.4% in 2021, and then decreasing to 47% in 2022, in line with the publication dates of included studies. Conclusion: The findings of meta-analysis show a significant decrease in the levels of knowledge, attitudes, and adherence to preventative interventions for COVID-19 among individuals with chronic diseases. The findings emphasize the need for targeted interventions, and ongoing education to address this trend.

Association between levels of serum and urinary B cell-activating factor and systemic lupus erythematosus disease activity.

Objectives: This study investigated the correlation between serum and urinary B cell-activating factor (BAFF) levels and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) disease activity. Patients and methods: This case-control study was conducted with 87 participants between December 2020 and September 2021. Sixty-two SLE patients who fulfilled the eligibility criteria were enrolled. SLE patients were categorized into active (n=34) and inactive (n=28) groups based on their Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index 2000 (SLEDAI-2K) scores. The control group consisted of 25 healthy subjects. Serum and urine samples were collected for the measurement of BAFF levels. Finally, the relationship between these variables and SLE disease activity was investigated. Results: The mean age of active (SLEDAI-2K >4) and inactive (SLEDAI-2K ≤4) SLE patients and healthy individuals were 32.8±7.8, 32.5±6.8, and 31.7±7.8 years, respectively (p=0.62). The median serum BAFF (s-BAFF) and urinary BAFF (u-BAFF) in active lupus patients (10.4 [2.3] ng/mL and 8.2 [3.7] ng/mL, respectively) were significantly higher than in inactive lupus patients (6 (7.1) ng/mL and 1.7 (4.7) ng/mL, respectively; p<0.001) and the control group (3 (3.7) ng/mL and 1.6 (2.2) ng/mL, respectively; p<0.001). However, s-BAFF (p=0.07) and u-BAFF (p=0.43) did not significantly differ between the inactive group and the control group. A significant positive correlation was observed between s-BAFF (r=0.41 and p=0.001) and u-BAFF (r=0.78 and p<0.001) levels and the SLEDAI-2K score. Conclusion: There is a significant positive correlation between serum and urinary BAFF levels and SLE disease activity. Furthermore, significantly higher levels of s-BAFF and u-BAFF have been observed in patients with active lupus compared to inactive and healthy subjects, indicating a possible role for BAFF in the pathogenesis of SLE disease activity.

A decision support framework to evaluate the sustainability performance of urban road transportation.

This study proposes a decision support framework (DSF) based on two data envelopment analysis (DEA) models in order to evaluate the urban road transportation of countries for sustainable performance management during different years. The first model considers different years independently while the second model, which is a type of network model, takes into account all the years integrated. A multi-objective programming model under two types of uncertainties is then developed to solve the proposed DEA models based on a revised multi-choice goal programming (GP) approach. The efficiency scores are measured based on the data related to several major European countries and the factors including the level of freight and passenger transportation, level of greenhouse gas emissions, level of energy consumption, and road accidents which are addressed as the main evaluation factors. Eventually, the two proposed models are compared in terms of interpretation and final achievements. The results reveal that the efficiency scores of countries are different under deterministic/uncertain conditions and according to the structure of the evaluation model. Furthermore, efficiency changes are not necessarily the same as productivity changes. The high interpretability (up to 99.6%) of the models demonstrates the reliability of DSF for decision-making stakeholders in the transport sector. Furthermore, a set of managerial analyses is conducted based on different parameters of the performance evaluation measures for these countries including the productivity changes during the period under consideration, resilience of the countries, detection of the benchmark countries, ranking of different countries, and detection of the patterns for improving the transportation system.

Global knowledge and attitudes towards mpox (monkeypox) among healthcare workers: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: The recent increase in human mpox (monkeypox) cases emphasizes the importance of early detection, prompt response and preventive management to control the spread of the disease. Healthcare workers (HCWs) play a crucial role in this process. This study aimed to determine the global knowledge and attitudes towards mpox among HCWs. METHODS: This study searched multiple databases, including Google Scholar, Scopus, PubMed/MEDLINE, Science Direct, Web of Science, Embase, Springer and ProQuest, to locate various publications. The search was limited to English-language articles published between May 2022 (when the increase in mpox incidence was reported) and August 2023. The Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) quality checklist was utilized to evaluate the quality of the included studies. Data were obtained using a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet and subsequently scrutinized through STATA software, version 14. The heterogeneity of the studies was assessed using the inverse variance and Cochran Q statistics based on the I2 test statistics. The Dersimonian and Liard random effects models were used where heterogeneity existed. Subgroup analysis and univariate and multivariable metaregression techniques were used to examine the causes of heterogeneity. RESULTS: A total of 22 studies, including 22 studies for knowledge (27 731 HCWs) and 6 studies for attitudes (14 388 HCWs), were included in the meta-analysis. The pooled estimates for good knowledge and positive attitudes among HCWs were 26.0% (95% confidence interval [CI] 17.8 to 34.2) and 34.6% (95% CI 19.0 to 50.2), respectively. Moreover, the knowledge was 34.8% (95% CI 24.1 to 45.6) among HCWs with <5 y of work experience and 41.6% (95% CI 33.1 to 50) among individuals possessing >5 y of professional background. CONCLUSIONS: Good knowledge of HCWs is at a low level. It is suggested that training sessions should be tailored towards younger HCWs with less healthcare experience. Additionally, it is essential to identify strategies on how to improve the knowledge and attitudes for better practice about the disease in HCWs worldwide.

Assessment of Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices Toward Coronavirus Disease 2019 and the Risks of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 Infection Among Iranian Emergency Medical Services Workers: An Online Cross-Sectional Survey.

OBJECTIVE: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), a severe acute respiratory infection, has spread rapidly around the world. To expand and enhance knowledge regarding virus prevention/transmission, this study aimed to evaluate the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of emergency medical services (EMS) workers as a part of the health care system because of their essential role in the front lines of the COVID-19 outbreak. METHODS: An online cross-sectional survey was conducted on EMS workers to assess their knowledge, attitudes, and practices toward COVID-19. The questionnaire included 5 topics: demographic information, knowledge and attitude questions, professional behavior of employees during the epidemic, and anxiety score. RESULTS: A total of 86 EMS workers answered the questionnaire, and 55.63% of the respondents answered the knowledge questions correctly; knowledge appeared to have no correlation to their education, age, or experience. In addition, there was no apparent correlation between the infection rate and exposure to an infected or suspected patient. CONCLUSION: The findings of the present study indicate that more than half of the EMS workers have good knowledge about the epidemic, and the level of knowledge was not related to their demographic characteristics. The results of professional behaviors showed a high level of compliance with the principles and guidelines by workers, and the absence of a relationship between employees' contamination and exposure to infected patients supports the awareness and legality of EMS workers.

The incidence of oral cavity cancer in Iran: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Oral cancer is now a top priority for non-communicable illnesses and universal health care plans, according to the WHO. There is no general estimate of the incidence of oral cavity cancer in Iran, despite multiple investigations. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the age-standardized incidence rate (ASR) of oral cavity cancers in Iran. METHOD: In accordance with the MOOSE (Meta-analyses of Observational Studies in Epidemiology) Checklist recommendations, this systematic review was conducted. PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, Embase, Scopus, ProQuest, and Google Scholar were used as the international databases for the systematic literature search, while SID (Scientific Information Database), Magiran and element were used as the Iranian databases. The heterogeneity of the research will be evaluated by means of the inverse variance and Cochran Q tests, along with random-effect models. It was determined what caused the heterogeneity using a meta-regression model. By eliminating experiments one at a time, sensitivity analysis was used. The meta-analysis was corrected utilizing the Trim-and-fill method due to the identification of noteworthy publication bias via the Egger's test and asymmetry of the funnel plot. RESULTS: This research incorporated a total of 22 journal articles. The pooled ASR of oral cavity cancer for males and females was estimated at 1.96 (95% CI: 1.65-2.26) (Q statistic = 1118.09, df = 25, p < .0001, I2 = 97.8%), and 1.46 (95% CI: 1.14-1.77) (Q statistic = 2576.99, df = 26, p < .0001, I2 = 99.0%), respectively. According to the funnel plots and Egger's test, there is no evidence of publication bias in studies reporting on males (bias = 1.3220, 95% CI: -3.9571, 6.6012, p = .610), but for ASR in females, Egger's test was significant (bias = -7.6366, 95% CI: 2.2141, 13.05904, p = .008). Based on Trim-and-fill methods, overall ASR corrected in females was estimated to be 1.36 (95% CI: 1.05%-1.66%). CONCLUSION: Iran's oral cavity cancer incidence was lower than the global average, but owing to variables including an aging population, a rise in life expectancy, and exposure to risk factors like smoking, we anticipate an increasing trend.

An integrated decision support system to achieve sustainable development in transportation routes with traffic flow.

Due to the growing population and demand, transportation planning has received special importance in the context of supply chain management. One of the major challenges in transportation planning is the traffic problem. This challenge affects the safety, environmental, and efficiency factors of transportation systems. Accordingly, in this study, the routes, which are important pillars of transportation planning, are examined from the perspective of sustainability. In this regard, a novel decision support system is developed, wherein at first, some decision-making methods including Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS), entropy technique, Nash equilibrium point (NEP), and data envelopment analysis (DEA) are employed to analyze and determine unstable routes. Then, a bi-level leader-follower multi-objective optimization model is developed, based on the vehicle types, to evaluate the routes at different time intervals and identify the most efficient time intervals as a traffic pattern. Finally, the proposed models are implemented in a real case study based on the freeways in Tehran. According to the main finding, it is revealed that heavier and bulkier vehicles have a greater impact on road instability.

Global knowledge, attitude, and practice towards COVID-19 among pregnant women: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Pregnant women form a specially vulnerable group due to unique changes in pregnancy, leading to a higher risk of getting a severe infection. As severe COVID-19 increases the risk of preeclampsia, preterm delivery, gestational diabetes, and low birth weight in pregnancy, there is a need to enhance pregnant women's knowledge, attitudes, and practices to prevent these complications. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to determine their levels of knowledge, attitudes, and practice (KAP) regarding COVID-19 at the global level. METHODS: The systematic literature search was conducted in the English language, including Google Scholar, Scopus, PubMed/MEDLINE, Science Direct, Web of Science, EMBASE, Springer, and ProQuest, from the occurrence of the pandemic until September 2022. We used The Newcastle Ottawa scale for cross-sectional studies checklist to evaluate the risk of bias in the studies. Data were extracted by a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet and analyzed by STATA software version 14. We also employed Cochran Q statistics to assess the heterogeneity of studies and utilized Inverse variance random-effects models to estimate the pooled level of pregnant women's KAP towards COVID-19 infection prevention. RESULTS: Based on the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) and inclusion criteria, 53 qualified studies were acquired from several countries. In total, 51 articles (17,319 participants) for knowledge, 15 articles (6,509 participants) for attitudes, and 24 articles (11,032 participants) for practice were included in this meta-analysis. The pooled good knowledge, positive attitude, and appropriate practice in pregnant women were estimated at 59%(95%CI: 52-66%), 57%(95%CI: 42-72%), and 53%(95%CI: 41-65%), respectively. According to subgroup analysis, the level of knowledge, attitude, and practice were 61%(95%CI: 49-72), 52%(95%CI: 30-74), and 50%(95%CI: 39-60), respectively, in Africa, and 58.8%(95%CI: 49.2-68.4), 60%(95%CI: 41-80) and 60% (95%CI: 41-78), respectively, in Asia. CONCLUSION: The Knowledge, attitude, and practice towards COVID-19 infection prevention in pregnant women were low. It is suggested that health education programs and empowerment of communities, especially pregnant women, about COVID-19 continue with better planning. For future studies, we propose to investigate the KAP of COVID-19 in pregnant women in countries of other continents and geographical regions.

Designing an integrated blockchain-enabled supply chain network under uncertainty.

With the development of communication infrastructure, the design of supply chains has changed significantly. Blockchain technology, as one of the most cutting-edge technologies, can promote transparency among members of the supply chain network. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study that tries to develop a novel bi-objective optimization model to integrate the transparency resulting from the use of blockchain for designing a three-level supply chain network. The first objective function is to minimize total cost while the second objective function seeks to maximize transparency based on the application of blockchain technology. Moreover, it is worth noting that it is the first attempt to investigate the role of a blockchain model under stochastic conditions. The bi-objectiveness and stochastic nature of the proposed model are then treated using Fuzzy Goal Programming (FGP) and Chance-Constrained programming (CCP) approaches, respectively. To tackle the problem, an improved Branch and Efficiency (B&E) algorithm is developed by incorporating transparency along with cost and service. The impacts of blockchain exclusively through transparency (Case 1) or through transparency, cost, and benefits (Case 2) in Supply Chain Design (SCD) are compared. The results demonstrated that the first case has less computational complexity and better scalability, while the second case has more transparency, less congestion, and more security. As one of the main implications, supply chain managers who are focused on cost minimization as well as transparency maximization are advised to take into account the trade-off between featuring costs and benefits of blockchain technology.

The Global Seroprevalence of Equine Brucellosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis Based on Publications From 1990 to 2022.

Brucellosis, a bacterial infection caused by Brucella spp., is a widespread zoonosis concerning human and animal health. In equines, brucellosis may occur asymptomatically or with clinical signs such as arthritis, bursitis, and tenosynovitis. This study aims to ascertain the overall seroprevalence of equine brucellosis and its related factors, including geographic region, serological detection method, equine's species, gender, age, and body condition. This is because equine brucellosis is a zoonotic infection with significant epidemiological implications. The systematic literature search was conducted from January 1, 1990, to April 1, 2022, in the following electronic databases: Google Scholar, Scopus, Pub Med, Science Direct, Web of Science, Embase, Springer, and ProQuest. Based on the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) and inclusion criteria, 49 qualified studies were acquired from several countries. Because Egger's test result and the asymmetry in the funnel plot indicated significant publication bias, the meta-analysis model was corrected using the trim-and-fill method. After correction, the pooled seroprevalence of equine brucellosis was 1.92% (95% CI, 0.67-3.79; estimated by the random effect model). Based on meta-regression analysis, the probable heterogeneity factors may be geographic areas (continents and countries). The brucellosis seroprevalence in equines was the lowest in Europe (0%, 95% CI, 0-0.1) and the highest in Asia (10.03%, 95% CI, 8-12.9). The highest overall estimate of seroprevalence of Brucella infection in equines based on a subset of serological tests was made using the serum agglutination test (10.2%, 95% CI, 7.7-13.4). The combined seroprevalence of brucellosis in donkeys (7.3%, 95% CI, 4.9-9.7) was higher than in other equine species. The overall seroprevalence of brucellosis in female equines was significantly higher than in males (OR = 1.437; 95% CI, 1.025-2.014); despite this, the overall seroprevalence had no significant difference based on other risk factors such as age and body condition. Understanding the epidemiology of this zoonotic infection in equines is critical for one-health integration. In addition, this study's results may be appropriate for controlling and managing equine brucellosis.

Genetic Association of VDR gene Apa1 and Taq1 Variants with Scleroderma in an Iranian Northeast Population.

BACKGROUND: Despite vigorous research efforts, the etiology of scleroderma (systemic sclerosis (SSc)) remains still unclear and both genetic and environmental factors clearly contribute to the pathogenesis of scleroderma. Reports of aberrant vitamin D status in scleroderma patients suggest a need for considering the genotype and allele frequencies of VDR gene polymorphisms. This case-control study aimed to investigate the possible association of two common polymorphisms of the VDR gene (ApaI, and TaqI) with susceptibility to scleroderma in an Iranian population. METHODS: Using polymerase chain reaction and restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCRRFLP), ApaI and TaqI polymorphisms in the VDR region were genotyped in 51 patients with scleroderma and 50 healthy controls. Logistic regression analysis was performed to calculate the genotypes odds ratios (ORs) as a measure of association with the presence of scleroderma. Haplotype and linkage disequilibrium analyses were also performed on the detected genotypes. RESULTS: No significant differences were found for the allelic and genotype distributions of ApaI and TaqI polymorphisms between patients with scleroderma and healthy controls (p>0.05). In haplotype analysis, three haplotypes TA, CA, and TC, with a frequency greater than 1% were identified. However, none of them was associated with the risk of scleroderma. CONCLUSION: Our preliminary study showed no evidence of an association between ApaI and TaqI polymorphisms and scleroderma. As the association between VDR polymorphisms and autoimmune diseases varies across the different ethnic populations, further large cohort studies are necessary to confirm the results.

A branch and efficiency algorithm to design a sustainable two-echelon supply chain network considering traffic congestion and uncertainty.

This work aims to design a sustainable two-echelon supply chain not only based on the widely used cost perspective, but also based on the efficient use and preservation of limited resources. For this purpose, a branch and efficiency (B&E) algorithm is developed, which includes an optimization model and an evaluation model. The proposed tri-objective optimization model simultaneously minimizes the total cost of the supply chain, maximizes the sustainability score, and minimizes inequity among customers. The solutions obtained from the optimization model are then evaluated by extended data envelopment analysis (EDEA) models based on common criteria (i.e., cost and service) and traffic congestion criterion. To take into account real-world conditions, parameters related to labor and demand are assumed under uncertainty. Since the presented models consist of more than one objective function, fuzzy goal programming (FGP) method is utilized to tread the multi-objectiveness. The obtained results from tackling a case study problem demonstrate that considering sustainability issues can positively affect both the economic and social aspects of the problem. Furthermore, the developed B&E algorithm is able to reduce costs in each iteration; this is what supply chain managers are interested in. On the other hand, this algorithm can provide more services to applicants compared to one of the competing algorithms.

Serum lysyl oxidase concentration increases in long-standing systemic sclerosis: Can lysyl oxidase change over time?

Objectives: This study aims to investigate the association of serum lysyl oxidase (LOX) levels with systemic sclerosis (SSc), to examine the relationship between LOX and disease onset, and to evaluate the probable effects of hyperlipidemia on the circulating levels of LOX among patients with SSc. Patients and methods: Between May 2017 and November 2018, a total of 39 patients with SSc (2 males, 37 females; mean age: 46.6±12.3 years; range, 18 to 65 years) and 35 healthy controls (4 males, 31 females; mean age: 43.1±14.1 years; range, 18 to 65 years) were included. Serum LOX concentration was measured using the enzyme-linked immunoassay in triplicate. Results: We found higher levels of serum LOX in patients with SSc compared to healthy controls. There was a significant relationship between serum LOX levels and disease onset. Patients with long-standing disease demonstrated increased levels of LOX in the blood compared to the recent-onset group. Hyperlipidemia did not have a significant effect on circulating levels of LOX. There was a significant negative correlation between LOX levels and modified Rodnan Skin Score in the subgroup of patients with skin involvement only and in patients without gastrointestinal involvement. Conclusion: Our study findings show an increased level of LOX protein level in the blood of patients diagnosed with SSc. Hyperlipidemia seems not to affect the concentrations of LOX in the peripheral blood of patients with SSc.