White blood cell and platelet distribution widths are associated with hypertension: data mining approaches.

In this paper, we are going to investigate the association between Hypertension (HTN) and routine hematologic indices in a cohort of Iranian adults. The data were obtained from a total population of 9704 who were aged 35-65 years, a prospective study was designed. The association between hematologic factors and HTN was assessed using logistic regression (LR) analysis and a decision tree (DT) algorithm. A total of 9704 complete datasets were analyzed in this cohort study (N = 3070 with HTN [female 62.47% and male 37.52%], N = 6634 without HTN [female 58.90% and male 41.09%]). Several variables were significantly different between the two groups, including age, smoking status, BMI, diabetes millitus, high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), uric acid, FBS, total cholesterol, HGB, LYM, WBC, PDW, RDW, RBC, sex, PLT, MCV, SBP, DBP, BUN, and HCT (P < 0.05). For unit odds ratio (OR) interpretation, females are more likely to have HTN (OR = 1.837, 95% CI = (1.620, 2.081)). Among the analyzed variables, age and WBC had the most significant associations with HTN OR = 1.087, 95% CI = (1.081, 1.094) and OR = 1.096, 95% CI = (1.061, 1.133), respectively (P-value < 0.05). In the DT model, age, followed by WBC, sex, and PDW, has the most significant impact on the HTN risk. Ninety-eight percent of patients had HTN in the subgroup with older age (≥58), high PDW (≥17.3), and low RDW (<46). Finally, we found that elevated WBC and PDW are the most associated factor with the severity of HTN in the Mashhad general population as well as female gender and older age.

Scenario modeling to predict changes in land use/cover using Land Change Modeler and InVEST model: a case study of Karaj Metropolis, Iran.

Models for land cover/land use simulation are appropriate and important tools for decision-makers, helping them build future plausible landscape scenarios. Due to the fact that the simulation results of different models may be different, it is sometimes difficult for users to choose a suitable model. Therefore, in this study, an integrated approach is used, combining the data obtained from remote sensing and GIS with Land Change Modeler (LCM) and Integrated Valuation of Ecosystem Services and Tradeoffs (InVEST) models to simulate and predict land cover/land use changes for 2028 in Karaj metropolis (Northern Iran as a poor region-in terms of data-which is under intense and rapid urbanization. In this sense, three land cover/land use maps related to the study area were primarily generated using satellite image data for the period 2006, 2011, and 2017. They were used as a basis to define two scenarios: business-as-usual (BAU) scenario and participatory plausible scenario (PPS) for 2028. Afterwards, the necessary input data used in running of both models were prepared and, then, the outputs of the models were interpreted and compared. According to the results, while human-made coverage and low-density grasslands increased by about 74% and 12%, respectively, it was from 2006 to 2017 that agricultural lands, gardens, and high-density grasslands decreased by 42%, 34%, and 7%, respectively. According to the business-as-usual scenario, which was projected using the LCM model, the increase in human-made cover will continue by about 29% by 2028, and the reduction rate of agricultural lands, gardens, and low-dense and dense grasslands will experience decrease by about 20%, 3%, 11%, and 9%, respectively. The participatory plausible scenario for 2028, which was defined using the InVEST model, confirmed the same results, but having different quantities. Accordingly, while human-made cover will increase by about 73%, the reduction rate of agricultural lands, gardens, and low-dense and dense grasslands will decrease by about 41%, 10%, 16%, and 1%, respectively. The output quantities of InVEST scenario model seem to be closer to reality with less uncertainty, because this model estimates the quantity of demand for land and its suitability for different uses, based on the views of different stakeholders, and considers landscape development future policies and plans. In contrast, the LCM model is based solely on trend extrapolation from the past to current time and changes in the landscape structure.

The Effects of Vitamin Therapy on ASD and ADHD: A Narrative Review.

The effects of a sufficient amount of vitamins and nutrients on the proper function of the nervous system have always been regarded by scientists. In recent years, many studies have been done on controlling or improving the symptoms of neurological and behavioral disorders created by changes in the level of vitamins and other nutrition, such as omega-3 and iron supplements. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that disrupts individual communication, especially in social interactions. Its symptoms include anxiety, violence, depression, self-injury, trouble with social contact and pervasive, stereotyped, and repetitive behavior. ASD is most noticeable in early childhood. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a lasting pattern of inattention with or without hyperactivity that causes functional disruption in daily life. ADHD symptoms included; impulsivity, hyperactivity, inattention, restlessness, talkativeness, excessive fidgeting in situations such as sitting, meetings, lectures, or at the movies, boredom, inability to make decisions, and procrastination. The exact etiology of ADHD has not yet been found, but several observations have assumed the reduced function of the brain leads to deficits in motor planning and cognitive processing. It has been shown that Pro-inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress biomarkers could be increased in both ASD and ADHD. Several studies have been done to illustrate if vitamins and other dietary supplements are effective in treating and preventing ASD and ADHD. In this review, we aim to evaluate the effects of vitamins and other dietary supplements (e.g., melatonin, zinc supplements, magnesium supplements) on ASD and ADHD.

Acellular dermal matrix in reconstructive surgery: Applications, benefits, and cost.

Modern tissue engineering has made substantial advancements that have revolutionized plastic surgery. Acellular dermal matrix (ADM) is an example that has gained considerable attention recently. ADM can be made from humans, bovines, or porcine tissues. ADM acts as a scaffold that incorporates into the recipient tissue. It is gradually infiltrated by fibroblasts and vascularized. Fortunately, many techniques have been used to remove cellular and antigenic components from ADM to minimize immune system rejection. ADM is made of collagen, fibronectin, elastin, laminin, glycosaminoglycans, and hyaluronic acid. It is used in critical wounds (e.g., diabetic wounds) to protect soft tissue and accelerate wound healing. It is also used in implant-based breast reconstruction surgery to improve aesthetic outcomes and reduce capsule contracture risk. ADM has also gained attention in abdominal and chest wall defects. Some studies have shown that ADM is associated with less erosion and infection in abdominal hernias than synthetic meshes. However, its higher cost prevents it from being commonly used in hernia repair. Also, using ADM in tendon repair (e.g., Achilles tendon) has been associated with increased stability and reduced rejection rate. Despite its advantages, ADM might result in complications such as hematoma, seroma, necrosis, and infection. Moreover, ADM is expensive, making it an unsuitable option for many patients. Finally, the literature on ADM is insufficient, and more research on the results of ADM usage in surgeries is needed. This article aims to review the literature regarding the application, Benefits, and costs of ADM in reconstructive surgery.

Masson Tumor of the Central Nervous System: A Case Report and Review of Literature.

BACKGROUND Masson's tumor, also known as intravascular papillary endothelial hyperplasia (IPEH), is an unusual endothelial proliferation that leads to improper thrombus development due to faulty endothelial structure. Although IPEH is rare in the central nervous system, it can arise at any location in the brain. Headaches, seizures, and focal neurological symptoms ae the most common presenting symptoms. It is more common in females and it can occur at any age. CASE REPORT Herein, we present a 65-year-old female patient with a progressively enlarging right temporal lobe mass that was initially considered metastatic ovarian carcinoma. She underwent a right temporal craniotomy and the lesion was totally resected. Contrary to expectations, the pathology report was an IPEH. CONCLUSIONS In this paper, we conducted a literature review of previously reported cerebral IPEH cases, with a focus on their clinical and radiological presentations, management, and especially their association with previous radiotherapy. The important point is that one-third of the cases had a history of radiation therapy to the head, and most of them had stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) on the location of the brain from which IPEH subsequently developed. The major question for which we are looking for an answer is its relationship with previous radiotherapies. We wanted to know how many of these cases were associated with radiotherapy in the same area, the time interval from radiotherapy to the onset of IPEH or symptoms, the dose of the previous radiotherapy, and, overall, if there is any cause-effect relationship between IPEH and radiotherapy.

Intussusception of the bowel in a young woman: A case report.

Intussusception is a condition in which a segment of the gastrointestinal tract invaginates into the lumen of another segment. Adult intussusception is less common than juvenile intussusception in terms of cause, appearance, and treatment. Because the clinical picture can be quite atypical and difficult to interpret, it is frequently misdiagnosed at first. Herein, we report the case of a previously healthy 23-year-old female patient who presented to the Emergency Department (ED) with acute abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhea for 1 day following her last menstrual period. Ileocecal intussusception was discovered throughout the investigation. She was rushed for open abdominal surgery. Meckel's diverticulum was found as a pathologic lead point in the resected specimen, with no evidence of malignancy. Although intussusception is rare in adults, it should be considered in patients who have nonspecific stomach pain.

Laparoscopic repair of an incarcerated Morgagni Hernia in a COVID-19-positive patient: A video case report.

INTRODUCTION: Morgagni Hernia (MH) is a type of congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH). CDH is a diaphragmatic discontinuity that permits abdominal viscera to herniate into the chest during development. It does not only occur in early childhood but also has been reported in adults. The most prevalent clinical sign of MH is respiratory disorder of all ages. CASE PRESENTATION: An elderly woman with a known history of diabetes, ischemic heart disease, hypertension, and constipation presented to us with increased abdominal pain. Besides, her PCR test results were positive for COVID-19. She underwent diagnostic laparoscopy surgery. The incision was closed with an intracorporeal suture, and then dual mesh was fixed to diaphragmatic wall. The postoperative progress was satisfactory two weeks after surgery. Based on a negative PCR test, the patient was discharged from the hospital. DISCUSSION: The foramina of Morgagni is a defect in the costosternal trigons produced by a lack of anterior pleuroperitoneal membrane muscularization. Although gastrointestinal symptoms and cardiorespiratory discomfort are typically connected with the diagnosis and treatment of MH in youngsters, there are a few middle-aged people who, like our case, develop symptoms suddenly. Albeit a paradigm change in the 21st century deems less invasive laparoscopic surgery to be the treatment of choice, open surgical procedures via a trans-thoracic or trans-abdominal route are still used. CONCLUSION: MH is indeed uncommon in adults, but in patients with an acute onset of intestinal obstruction, the possibility of MH should be in mind. It can be fatal if it is misdiagnosed.

Relationship between land surface temperature and urbanization in Vilnius district.

The present study aims to evaluate the effect of vegetation on land surface temperature (LST) in different land uses and covers in Vilnius district in 1999 and 2019. To that end, in addition to mono-window and split-window algorithms that help estimate the LST, the variables digital elevation model (DEM), slope, heat load index (HLI), distances from the road and the water, the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI), and the normalized difference water index (NDWI) affecting the surface temperature were used. Furthermore, the random forest regression (RFR) method was applied to evaluate the effect of the mentioned variables on the LST. The performance model was also assessed by using the mean absolute (MAE), mean squared (MSE), and root mean square error (RMSE). Based on the results, NDVI and NDWI indexes had the greatest impact on the temperature of Vilnius city, respectively. The study area images were categorized as built-up area, cropland, semi-forest land, dense forest land, water bodies, pastures, and green urban areas. It was found that the pastures in 1999 and the built-up class in 2019 received the highest temperature from the land surface and that the classes characterized by natural land cover such as forest land and agricultural and water bodies had a relatively low surface temperature. NDVI response curves in both 1999 and 2019 indicated that the higher the density of vegetation on the land surface, the lower the surface temperature. A lower rate of urbanization, a higher density of vegetation and consequently, a lower the temperature of the land surface were recorded for 1999 in comparison with 2019. Therefore, urbanization was demonstrated to play a significant role in changes in LULC and the increase in LST.

Investigation of the impacts of urban vegetation loss on the ecosystem service of air pollution mitigation in Karaj metropolis, Iran.

The present study aims to investigate the relationship between reduced air pollution and ecosystem services in Karaj metropolis, Iran. To the end, the trends in the concentrations of O3, NO2, CO, SO2, PM10, and PM2.5 as the main atmospheric pollutants of Karaj were studied. Five time series models of autoregressive (AR), moving average (MA), autoregressive moving average (ARMA), autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA), and seasonal autoregressive integrated moving average (SARIMA) were used to predict changes in air pollutant concentrations. Air pollution zoning is conducted via ArcGIS10.3 by using spline tension interpolation method. Then, normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) was obtained from Landsat Thematic Mapper (TM) and Operational Land Imager (OLI) images to analyze vegetation dynamics as an index of ecosystem functioning. NDVI thresholds were selected to present guidelines for qualitative and quantitative changes in green cover and were divided into five different categories. Based on the results, AR (1) and ARIMA (1,2,1) were recognized as appropriate models for predicting the concentration of air pollutants in the study area. A decrease in very dense vegetation coverage and increase in poor vegetation areas, followed by an increase in air pollution, revealed that the loss of urban green coverage and decreased ecosystem services were positively related. Furthermore, the expansion of urban lands toward the north and the west from the baseline to future condition led to great changes in the land cover and losses in vegetation along these axes, which finally resulted in increased air pollution in these areas. Thus, the results of this study can be directly used in decision-making in the area of air pollution.

Therapeutic Effects of Standardized Formulation of Stachys lavandulifolia Vahl on Primary Dysmenorrhea: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Crossover, Placebo-Controlled Pilot Study.

OBJECTIVES: In Iranian folklore medicine, boiled extract of Stachys lavandulifolia Vahl is reputed to have therapeutic effects in painful disorders. This study evaluated the efficacy of the standardized formulation of S. lavandulifolia Vahl in reducing pain in primary dysmenorrhea, which is known to be a common disorder with significant impact on quality of life. DESIGN: A randomized, double blind, crossover, placebo-controlled pilot study. SETTINGS/LOCATION: Bu-Ali Hospital affiliated with Tehran Medical Branch, Islamic Azad University. SUBJECTS: Twenty-nine patients with primary dysmenorrhea. Patients were enrolled according to medical history and gynecologic sonography. INTERVENTIONS: Standardized capsules of S. lavandulifolia were prepared. All the patients were allowed to take mefenamic acid up to 250 mg/q6h if they needed, in the first menstruation cycle to estimate the analgesic consumption at baseline. By the use of an add-on design in the next cycle, they were randomly assigned to receive either herbal or placebo capsules every 4-6 h. Then, they were crossed over to the other group during the course of the trial. OUTCOME MEASURES: At the end of the fourth day of each cycle, the intensity of pain was measured by visual analogue scale and McGill pain questionnaire. Statistical significance was evaluated using repeated-measures one-way analysis of variance. RESULTS: Pain intensity was significantly decreased during consumption of Stachys lavandulifolia capsules in comparison with basic and placebo cycles (p < 0.05). Interestingly, the consumption of mefenamic acid capsules was reduced dramatically in the S. lavandulifolia cycle in comparison with basic and placebo cycles (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: It was demonstrated that S. lavandulifolia-prepared formulation can reduce menstrual pain, and can probably be recommended as an add-on therapy or even an alternative remedy to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) with fewer side effects in primary dysmenorrhea.

The effect of hypnosis on pain relief during labor and childbirth in Iranian pregnant women.

This study describes the effect of hypnosis on pain relief during labor and childbirth. Using a qualitative approach, 6 pregnant women were trained to use self-hypnosis for labor. Outcomes were analyzed using Colaizzi's procedure. Women described their feelings about hypnosis during labor as: a sense of relief and consolation, self-confidence, satisfaction, lack of suffering labor pain, changing the feeling of pain into one of pressure, a decrease in fear of natural childbirth, lack of tiredness, and lack of anxiety. They expressed increased concentration on the uterus and cervical muscle, awareness of all the stages of labor, and having "positive thoughts." Births were perceived as being very satisfactory compared to their previous experiences.