system dynamics modeling of the food-water-energy nexus in urban areas, focusing on community gardens

The urgent need to address sustainability challenges in food, water, and energy (FWE) has led to the FWE Nexus framework. Ensuring food security and sustainable urban agriculture are critical elements of sustainable development. Community gardens (CG) have gained prominence as they enhance food production, foster social cohesion, and mitigate environmental impacts. This study investigates CGs’ land usage using a system dynamics modeling approach based on data from a case study at Concordia University’s Loyola Campus Garden. Simulations were done using the Vensim Software. The objective is to analyze land usage in response to various CG scenarios: (1) harvesting ratio on dedicated CG land, (2) production efficiency by involving experienced farmers, and (3) cost considerations. The findings reveal insights into CGs’ potential for sustainable development. More CG land leads to increased local food production, impacting food security positively. Improving CG efficiency enhances their role in addressing food-related challenges. However, financial considerations must be balanced for long-term viability and scalability. The study aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Evidence supports CGs’ contributions to SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production). Policymakers, planners, and community organizers can leverage insights to promote sustainable urban agriculture and achieve development objectives. Furthermore, this study highlights CGs’ importance in the FWE Nexus framework and their potential for sustainable development. Understanding land usage dynamics allows informed decisions to enhance food security, foster communities’ well-being, and promote responsible consumption in urban areas

Ameliorative Effect of Melatonin Versus the Passage of Time and Lipid Peroxidation on Sperm Motility in Asthenotratospermic Men

Background and Objective: Downscale outcome in assisted reproductive techniques (ART) is associated with lipid peroxidation. Melatonin may have beneficial effects against lipid peroxidation and oxidative stress. This work was aimed to evaluate the ameliorative capacity of melatonin versus the passage of time and lipid peroxidation on sperm parameters from the men with ATS in the ART process. Material and Methods: Semen samples were collected from 50 asthenoteratozoospermic (ATS) men. Samples were divided into control and melatonin group. The test group were incubated with 6 mM melatonin at 2, 4, 6, and 24 hours. Then total and progressive motility, membrane integrity, and Malondialdehyde levels (MDA) were evaluated. Statistical analysis was carried out by SPSS software (repeated-measures ANOVA). Results: In the control group, total (p<0.01) and progressive (P<0.05) motility and also, membrane integrity (P<0.03) significantly decreased although, MDA levels of sperm significantly increased (*P<0.04). Moreover, in the melatonin group, the mentioned parameters significantly compensated compared to the control group (P<0.05). Conclusion: In the outcome, melatonin in vitro treatment paves the way for motility and membrane integrity up-regulating in the ATS men

investigate the effectiveness of group training based on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) on aggression and anxiety in patients with panic

Abstract This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of group training based on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) on aggression and anxiety in patients with panic. This study was Semi-experimental research with pretest - posttest with control group. For this purpose, the sample was randomly included in two experimental (10 subjects) and control (10 subjects) groups by convenient sampling method from patients aged 20 to 40 years old to some centers to counseling and treatment centers and psychiatric clinics of Tehran in 2015 who suffered from panic cholera using the techniquediagnosis of the attending psychiatrist and through Spielberger STAI-Y anxiety scale screening test and Buss-Perry Aggression. Then, the experimental group received the intervention based on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for 6 session and 90 minutes, and the control group received no intervention. After finishing the training course, questionnaires were distributed in both groups and data from pretest, posttest and They were analyzed by analysis of covariance. The results showed a significant difference between the scores of both groups in terms of the effect of group training based on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. According to the results, group training based on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy can be used as an effective and efficient method with applicability in improving anxiety and aggression in patients with panic attack.Keywords: anxiety, aggression, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, panic attack