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In this work, we have reported the design, synthesis, in vitro, and in silico enzymatic evaluation of new bis-4-hydroxycoumarin-based phenoxy-1,2,3-triazole-N-phenylacetamide derivatives 5a-m as potent α-glucosidase inhibitors. All the synthesized analogues showed high inhibition effects against α-glucosidase (IC50 values ranging between 6.0 ± 0.2 and 85.4 ± 2.3 µM) as compared to the positive control acarbose (IC50 = 750.0 ± 0.6 µM). Among the newly synthesized compounds 5a-m, 2,4-dichloro-N-phenylacetamide derivative 5i with inhibition effect around 125-folds more than the acarbose was identified as the most potent entry. A structure–activity relationship (SAR) study about the title compounds 5a-m demonstrated that the inhibition effects of these compounds depend on the pattern of substitution on the N-phenylacetamide ring. The interaction modes and binding energies in the active site of enzyme of the important analogues (in term of SAR study) were evaluated through molecular docking study. Molecular dynamics and prediction of pharmacokinetic properties and toxicity of the most potent compound 5i also evaluated and the obtained data was compared with the acarbose. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most important endocrine disorders affecting about 5-10% of women in reproductive age. Betaine is a bioactive peptide that has an anti-inflammatory activity. The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of betaine on insulin resistance indices and inflammatory cytokines markers and histology alteration in rat ovary with experimental PCOS. This experimental study was performed on 48 female Wistar rats (170-200 g). PCOS was induced by administration of testosterone enanthate (1 mg/100g/day during 35 days). PCOS rats were treated with betaine (1% in drinking water) for 30 days. At the end of the experimental period, the insulin resistance markers (serum insulin and glucose concentrations the homeostasis model assessment of basal insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), serum estradiol (E2), progesterone (P4) and inflammatory cytokines were measured. The ovaries were also processed for histological study. PCOS induction resulted in insulin resistance, impaired E2, P4 production and elevation of tissue TNF-α, IL-1β levels. Moreover, a significant increase of ovarian cysts and atretic follicles and also a significant reduction in the early corpus luteum were observed in the ovarian tissue of the PCOS groups. Betaine treatment could reduce the inflammatory cytokines and improve steroid productions in PCOS rats. Betaine also restored normal Folliculogenesis by reducing atretic and cystic follicles. Our findings showed the beneficial effects of betaine in PCOS rats by improvement of folliculogenesis, suppression of inflammation in ovary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The development of protective immunity through COVID-19 vaccines is influenced by both host factors and the composition of the vaccine. Therefore, it is essential to assess the efficacy and side effects of different vaccines among individuals with diverse socioeconomic and genetic backgrounds. Methods: In this cross-sectional descriptive study, we examined 192 vaccinated individuals (126 recipients of Sinopharm and 66 recipients of AstraZeneca) for neutralizing antibodies two to four weeks after receiving their second vaccine dose. Additionally, we monitored these individuals for the presence or absence of COVID-19 symptoms and adverse effects over a one-month period following vaccination. Results: There was no significant difference in mean antibody titers between the Sinopharm and AstraZeneca vaccine groups (p=0.452). The percentage of positive antibody results in the Sinopharm and AstraZeneca groups was 69.8% and 84.8%, respectively, with no statistically significant variance (p=0.437). The most common side effect reported in the Sinopharm group was malaise (87.3%), while in the AstraZeneca group, malaise was also prevalent (95.5%). Compared to Sinopharm, the AstraZeneca group experienced a higher incidence of side effects (p<0.05). However, the Sinopharm group had a higher percentage of injection site pain as a complication (p<0.001). Conclusion: Our study revealed that there is no significant difference in efficacy between Sinopharm and AstraZeneca vaccines in individuals without a history of COVID-19. Common side effects following COVID-19 vaccination were observed in both Sinopharm and AstraZeneca recipients, with higher frequencies noted in the AstraZeneca group in most cases. This information may aid individuals who are concerned about potential vaccine side effects in making informed decisions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A tumor represents a highly intricate tissue entity, characterized by an exceptionally complex microenvironment that starkly contrasts with the typical physiological surroundings of healthy tissues. Within this tumor microenvironment (TME), every component and factor assume paramount importance in the progression of malignancy and exerts a pivotal influence on a patient's clinical outcome. One of the remarkable aspects of the TME is its remarkable heterogeneity, not only across different types of cancers but even within the same histological category of tumors. In-depth research has illuminated the intricate interplay between specific immune cells and molecules and the dynamic characteristics of the TME. Recent investigations have yielded compelling evidence that several mutations harbored by tumor cells possess the capacity to instigate substantial alterations in the TME. These mutations, often acting as drivers of tumorigenesis, can orchestrate a cascade of events that remodel the TME, thereby influencing crucial aspects of cancer behavior, including its invasiveness, immune evasion, and response to therapies. It is within this nuanced context that the present study endeavors to provide a concise yet comprehensive summary of how specific mutations, within the genetic landscape of cancer cells, can instigate profound changes in TME features. By elucidating the intricate relationship between genetic mutations and the TME, this research aims to contribute to a deeper understanding of cancer biology. Ultimately, the knowledge gained from this study holds the potential to inform the development of more targeted and effective treatments, thereby offering new hope to patients grappling with the complexities of cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Immunotherapy has lately become the most preferred cancer treatment method, and for non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) first‐line treatment, there are many immunotherapy options. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness and toxicity of paclitaxel (PTX), docetaxel (DTX) chemotherapy, immune checkpoint inhibitor treatment (durvalumab; DVL), and their combination in NSCLC. A‐549 cells were treated with DVL in combination with PTX and DTX (a quarter of the IC50) to investigate their anticancer effects on these cells. The MTT assay, wound healing tests, and double‐staining with Annexin V/PI were used to assess the cell viability, apoptosis, and migration. The results showed that a combination of 0.35 mg/mL DVL with 6.5 μg/mL PTX and 1.75 μg/mL DTX produced a synergistic effect with CI values of 0.88, 0.37, and 0.81, respectively. Moreover, the PTX + DTX + DVL combination led to a significantly increased apoptotic rate up to 88.70 ± 3.39% in the A549 cell line compared to monotherapy (p <.001). In addition, we found that the combination therapy with these agents increased the expression level of Bax, Cas‐3, p53, and Bax/Bcl‐2 ratio in all experimental groups. In conclusion, the results suggest that combining anti‐PD‐L1 antibody therapy with chemotherapy may provide a promising approach to enhance treatment outcomes and be a potentially efficacious strategy for treating NSCLC patients. Further research and clinical investigations are needed to elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms and validate the therapeutic potential of these compounds in vivo. Significance statement: In this study, durvalumab (DVL), an immune checkpoint inhibitor, has been proposed to evaluate the antitumor efficacy of the taxane family. The results illustrate that DVL improved taxane family‐mediated cytotoxicity in the non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cell line. The triple medication (paclitaxel [PTX], docetaxel [DTX], and DVL) combination therapy altered the cell proliferation in the NSCLC cells and showed a synergistic antitumoral effect, which contributes to taxane family‐mediated cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. The combination potential benefit in the NSCLC treatment is the study's most significant discovery. Combining PTX, DTX, and DVL increased apoptosis by activating apoptotic pathways, and arrested cells in the G2/M phase. Also, the triple medication combination significantly reduced cell migration and invasion. Our findings also point to the possibility of increasing the overall anticancer effectiveness of DTX or PTX in NSCLC by adding anti‐PD‐L1 treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: MicroRNAs (miRNAs) regulate gene expression and various cellular activities. They also hold significant importance in the progression and development of human malignancies. Among these, miRNA-484 and the Fis-1 gene have been identified as having substantial roles in lung cancer. This study aims to ascertain miRNA-484 and Fis-1 gene expression levels in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients. Method: In this case-control study, 45 pairs of tumor tissues and their corresponding healthy margin tissues were surgically obtained from NSCLC patients and promptly preserved in liquid nitrogen after excision. Total RNA extraction was performed using TRIzol, followed by cDNA synthesis using a designated kit. Afterward, we used quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) to measure the expression levels of miRNA-484 and the Fis-1 gene. Furthermore, the clinico-pathological characteristics of the NSCLC patients were assessed. Results: Our findings revealed an upregulation of miRNA-484 expression and downregulation of Fis-1 gene expression in NSCLC tissues compared with non-tumor tissues. Additionally, significant correlations were observed between miRNA-484 and Fis-1 gene expression levels and clinicopathological features of the patients, including factors such as lymph node involvement and distant metastasis. Conclusion: These findings suggest the potential utility of Fis-1 and miR-484 as prognostic and diagnostic markers in NSCLC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Laryngeal tumor is the most commonly identified malignancy in head and neck cancers, containing 2.4% of all cancers, and is the 11th most prevalent and fatal cancer in the world. Previous research has revealed that microRNAs (miRNAs) have a significant role in the progression of laryngeal tumors. Additionally, research focuses on the association with the clinical function of miRNA in malignancy. Objectives: Based on previous research, miR-132, miR-302, miR-126, and miR-205 have potential roles in the tumor development of the LSCC. Then, in the current study, we pointed to study if there are any significant alters in the expression of microRNAs and whether they have any significant possibility as a diagnostic or prognostic factor for laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma. Methods: From 30 LSCC patients, we have collected tumor and marginal healthy tissues through laryngectomy. Total RNA extraction from the marginal healthy and malignancy tissues was done. Next, we control the quality of the RNAs and, then, synthesize cDNA. Lastly, the expression of the miRNAs was evaluated by qPCR. The expression level of genes and their association with the patient's clinicopathological features were studied, using related statistical tests. Results: miR-132 (P = 0.0001, fold change: 1.28) and miR-302 (P = 0.0001, fold change: l.o5) are significantly up-regulated in tumor tissues compared to normal peripheral tissues. Furthermore, we revealed that miR-205 (P < 0.0001, fold change: 0.241) and miR-126 (P = 0.0001, fold change: 0.251) are low expressed in LSCC cancer tissue. Between these miRNAs, gust expression of the miR-205 had no relationship with clinical-pathological characteristics in malignancy tissue. Conclusions: The results of the current study showed the possibility of miR-302, miR-132, miR-126, and miR-205 as diagnostic or prognostic factors in LSCC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Spence Children's Anxiety Scale (SCAS) is a tool for measuring anxiety symptoms in children and adolescents. In this study, the psychometric properties of the Persian version of SCAS were investigated in an Iranian adolescents. This study was conducted on a sample of 684 adolescents. For standardization of SCAS, first- and second-order confirmatory factor analyses wereperformed. Also, to evaluate convergent and divergent validity, Fornell and Larcker criteria (1994), along with the Revised Children's Manifest Anxiety Scale (RCMAS)and Children's Depression Inventory (CDI), was used. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was also performedto determine the cut-off point. The model fit of the correlated six-factor model was good however, a second-order model provided a statistically superior fit to the data. The reliability coefficients for the total scale and its dimensions were satisfactory (α > 0.7). Therefore, it can be concluded that the Persian version of SCAS has acceptable reliability and validity and can be used as a useful tool for early screening of anxiety in Iranian adolescents due to its easy use and specific design for children and adolescents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are one of the most important environmental pollutants. Urinary concentrations of 1-hydropyren metabolites of PAHs have been used as biomarkers of these chemicals' exposure in humans. This cross-sectional study was conducted on 468 healthy Iranian adults over 25 years old and non-smokers in six provinces who were selected based on the clustering method. Fasting urine sampling and body composition and demographic measurements were performed. Urine samples were analyzed by GC-MS. The analysis included descriptive statistics and analytical statistics using multiple linear regression by Python software. 1-Hydroxypyrene was found in 100% of samples, and the mean (Reference Value 95%) concentration of 1-hydroxypyrene was 6.12 (RV 95%: 20) μg/L and 5.95 (21) μg/gcrt. There was a direct relationship between the amount of body composition (body fat, visceral fat), BMI, and age with the urinary concentrations of 1-hydropyren metabolites, and this relationship was significant for BMI with urinary concentrations of 1-hydropyren metabolites (P = 0.045). The amount of 1-hydroxypyrene in healthy Iranian adults has been higher than in similar studies in other countries. These results provide helpful information regarding the exposure of Iranian adults to 1-hydroxypyrene, and these data can be used to supplement the national reference values of human biomonitoring for the interpretation of biomonitoring results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) is recognized as an essential controller of gene expression and other activities of the cells. Additionally, lncRNAs have a critical role in the progression and growth of human malignancies, like melanoma. Among lncRNAs, thymopoietin (TMPO)-antisense RNA 1 (TMPO AS- 1) has a significant role in melanoma. The current study aimed to determine the expression level of TMPO AS-1 in melanoma patients. Method: In this case-control research, 50 pairs of tumor and non-tumor tissues of melanoma patients were separated by the surgeon. Subsequently, TMPO AS-1 expression level in the tissues was evaluated. We used TRIzol to extract total RNA from the tumor and non-tumor tissues, following which complementary DNA was synthesized. The TMPO AS-1 expression level of TMPO AS-1 was evaluated via quantitative reverse transcription- polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) technique. Moreover, clinicopathological features of the melanoma patients were evaluated. Results: Our findings revealed that TMPO AS-1 expression level was upregulated in the melanoma tissues in comparison with the non-tumor ones. Remarkably, the TMPO AS-1 expression level was considerably correlated to the clinicopathological characteristics of the patients, including lymph nodes and distant metastasis. Conclusion: Upregulation of TMPO AS-1 in melanoma indicated that TMPO AS- 1 and its downstream signal pathways could be used as a new target treatment option and prognostic tumor marker for melanoma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background & Objective: Given the importance of the benefits of natural childbirth and the complications of recurrent cesarean section, we have conducted the present study to determine the maternal and neonatal complications of natural childbirth after cesarean section. Materials & Methods: In this case-control study, the obstetric complications of 84 women who had undergone a previous cesarean delivery referred to Baqiyatallah Hospital in 2018 for vaginal delivery after cesarean section (VBAC) delivery compared with 84 women with a previous vaginal delivery, who intended to give birth vaginally for the second delivery. Demographic, anthropometric, obstetric, and perinatal data of them were collected and registered in a researcher-developed form. Two groups were compared using the t-test and chi-square test. Results: The mean age in VBAC and control group was 30.49±6.83 and 32.08±7.28 years, respectively (P=0.15). There were not any occurrence of urinary rupture, bladder rupture, stool control disorder, uterine rupture, nephrotic infection, and ICU hospitalization of the mothers in the two groups. Regarding puerperal infection (3.57% in the VBAC group and 4.76% in the control group, P=0.69) and hospitalization of neonates in ICU (9.52% in the VBAC group and 5.95% in the control group, p=0.39), there was no significant difference between the two groups. Conclusion: It seems that the overall incidence of obstetric complications in women attempting vaginal birth after cesarean delivery is low and not higher than those with prior vaginal delivery. Therefore, for the achievement of benefits of natural childbirth for both the mother and the fetus, women with a prior cesarean should be offered VBAC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tuberculous (TB) pericarditis is a well-known manifestation of tuberculosis, particularly in endemic regions. The progression to constrictive pericarditis, while under anti-tuberculosis treatment, is reported to be as high as 30%. This report presents a case of a 56-year-old female patient who complained of cough, pleuritic chest pain, night sweats, and fever, followed by orthopnea, dyspnea, and peripheral edema. Transthoracic echocardiography revealed the early stages of constrictive pericarditis and a small pericardial effusion. Chest computed tomography (CT) showed a thickened pericardium, small pericardial and pleural effusions, and multiple mediastinal lymphadenopathies. Due to a high suspicion of tuberculous pericarditis, the patient was administered empirical anti-TB treatment. A follow-up after two months showed complete resolution of symptoms and echocardiographic findings. Empirical antimicrobial treatment in endemic areas is a wellestablished strategy for managing tuberculous infection and proved successful in this patient. The early presentation and the significant improvement in signs and symptoms following the medical anti-TB regimen, without the need for pericardiectomy, were unique aspects of this case. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is necessary for the narrator to take advantage of techniques that help him write the novel and find consistency and coherence between form and content. The more consistent this is, the more successful the writer will be. Hoda Barakat utilizes the art of correspondence to outline the exciting and tragic plot in "The Barid Al-Layil". The narration is obscure and lacks clarity, as the reader never sees a known name for the protagonist. Everything is shrouded in darkness and separation, much like the night of vagrants - a story of those who have no time, place, or possessions. What captures the recipient's attention is how all textual elements such as titles, colors, cover, and other thresholds harmonize with the plot and serve its content. The writer's ingenuity is evident in this consistency that we see between form and content in her novel, creating an integrated fabric. This research, using a descriptive-analytical approach, studies the appropriateness between textual elements and the plot to unravel the mysteries of this correspondence novel and guide critics towards a more accurate and thoughtful review process. The textual elements studied in this article include the cover, colors, headline, sub-headings, and introduction. The research findings reveal that through a complex and disjointed plot without a clear resolution, Barakat alludes to complex crises in Arab countries that are not easily resolved. The reader must analyze the unsolved riddles presented by Barakat, fostering interaction between writer and reader while reducing the author's dominance over the text.The title of the novel, the cover, and the colors used on the cover all guide the reader to what will happen in the letters of disappointment. Barakat utilizes the duality of disappointment and hope in both the threshold and the plot to achieve her goals in writing "The Barid Al-Layil". It is as if she wants to confirm that there is no impact of dialogue and interaction in such a society. Those who reside in this society do not desire communication, not even through a message. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives The aim of this study was to evaluate differences in clinical features and laboratory parameters in critically ill pregnant women with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) compared to moderate and severe pregnant women with coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) but without ARDS. Methods This was a retrospective multicenter study of all pregnant women with COVID-19 diagnosed with ARDS between February 15, and May 1, 2020 in nine level III maternity centers in Iran (ARDS group). The control COVID-19 pregnant women were selected from 3 of 9 level III maternity centers between March 15 and April 20, 2020. Univariate statistics were used to look at differences between groups. Cluster dendrograms were used to look at the correlations between clinical and laboratory findings in the groups. A value of p <.05 was considered statistically significant. Results Fifteen COVID-19 infected women with ARDS were compared to 29 COVID-19 positive and ARDS negative control (moderate: (n = 26) 89.7% and severe: (n = 3)10.3%). The mean maternal age (35.6 vs. 29.4 years; p = .002) and diagnosis of chronic hypertension (20.0% vs. 0%, p = .034) were significantly higher in the ARDS group. There was no significant difference between the two groups in their presenting symptoms. The ARDS group had a significantly higher prevalence of tachypnea (66.6% vs. 10.3%, p = .042) and blood oxygen saturation (SpO2) <93% (66.6% vs. 10.3%, p = .004) at presentation. Relative lymphopenia (lymphocyte ratio < 10.5%, 66.6% vs. 17.2%, p = .002), lymphocytes to leukocytes ratio (11.3% vs. 17.7%, p = .010), and neutrophils to lymphocytes ratio (NLR) >7.5 were significantly different between the two groups (all p < .05). Conclusion Our data demonstrate that symptom-based strategies for identifying the critically ill pregnant women with SARS-CoV-2 are insufficient; however, vital signs and laboratory data might be helpful to predict ARDS in critically ill COVID-19 pregnant patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Management of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) in pregnant women infected with new severe acute respiratory syndrome Corona virus 2 (SARS-CoV2) is a challenging clinical task. A 30- year-old woman (gravid 3, parity 2) presented at her 21 and 2/7 weeks gestation (pre pregnancy BMI: 36.1 kg/m2), with ARDS caused by SARS-CoV2 infection. She received lopinavir/ritonavir and azithromycin as well as early methyl prednisolone therapy. Given the persistent hypoxemia despite oxygen therapy via non rebreather face mask (FiO2:80%), convalescent plasma transfusion was administered that led to a mild clinical improvement as well as decrease in inflammatory markers. Growth of her fetus assessed by obstetric sonography was normal during hospital stay. Judicious corticosteroid therapy along with convalescent plasma transfusion to suppress viremia and cytokine storm can lead to favorable outcome in the pregnant women with ARDS caused by SARS-CoV2 infection without superimposed bacterial infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) is the main cause of acute and subacute flaccid paralysis in western nations since the eradication of poliomyelitis. Objective: The aim of this study is to investigate epidemiology and mortality characteristics of GBS in the north of Iran. Material and methods: In this study, the hospital information system (HIS) was used to access each patient's information. The final 174 cases were examined in terms of age, sex, place of residence, the year of referral, the month of referral, the season of referral, client city, accompanying background disease, and the type of GBS. Results: The mean incidence rate in Guilan province was about 0.69 in 100,000 persons, and the case fatality rate was 10.34%. The most reported type of GBS was AIDP (33.90%), and the most common symptom was upper and lower limbs paresis in 65 cases (37%). Respiratory distress (P = < 0.001), complications during hospitalization (P = 0.0001), and ICU requirement (P = 0.001) were significantly higher in dead patients. Conclusion: In this study, the incidence of GBS was higher in men than women and the highest number of cases was in the age group of 60 to 75 years. The significant point was the high-case fatality rate in Guilan province compared to the previous studies. The complications during hospitalization such as respiratory distress, ICU requirement, and underlying disease had a significant relation with the fatality of GBS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Considering the importance of inflammation and oxidative stress in the development of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) as well as anti-inflammatory and antioxidant features of N-acetylcysteine (NAC), this study was conducted to evaluate the effect of NAC supplementation on disease activity, oxidative stress, and inflammatory and metabolic parameters in RA patients. In a randomized double-masked placebo-controlled trial, 74 RA subjects were chosen and randomly divided into two groups to take 600 mg of NAC or placebo twice daily for 3 months. Before and after the study, disease activity was assessed via disease activity score-28 (DAS-28), and serum malondialdehyde (MDA), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), glutathione peroxidase (GPX) activity, nitric oxide (NO), high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), fasting blood sugar (FBS), lipid profile, and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) were measured. Seventy patients completed the trial. Compared to baseline, NAC significantly reduced morning stiffness (P < 0.001), DAS-28 (P < 0.001), ESR (P = 0.004), MDA (P < 0.001), NO (P < 0.001), hs-CRP (P = 0.006), FBS (P < 0.001), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) (P = 0.023) and significantly increased GPx activity (P = 0.015) and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) level (P = 0.001). After treatment, remarkable differences were only seen between the two groups in serum NO (P = 0.003), FBS (P = 0.010), and HDL-C (P < 0.001) adjusted for baseline measures. There were no significant changes in morning stiffness, DAS-28, ESR, hs-CRP, MDA, TAC, GPx activity, triglyceride, total cholesterol, and LDL-C levels compared to the placebo group. In conclusion, NAC did not improve RA disease activity, but reduced NO and FBS and increased HDL-C levels. It appears that NAC should not be consumed as a replacement for routine medications prescribed in RA therapy, but it can be used as an adjunctive therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: Healthcare students highly affect the general public regarding transferring knowledge about novel therapeutic approaches. Therefore, assessing and updating their knowledge about the application of new strategies in the treatment of different diseases is very important. The present study was designed to evaluate the level of the students’ knowledge about stem cells and their application in neurological disorders at the Guilan University of Medical Sciences (GUMS). Methods and Materials/Patients: In this cross-sectional study, a questionnaire was designed in three sections. Exclusion criteria were reluctance to participate in the project or answer to less than 20% of the questions. Inclusion criteria included studying at GUMS and willingness to participate in the project and answer the questionnaire. The questionnaire was distributed in all GUMS faculties, including medicine, paramedicine, nursing and midwifery, dentistry, health, and pharmacy. The data were analyzed by SPSS v. 16 through Pearson correlation coefficient, independent t-test, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), and Cronbach’s alpha. Results: According to the total awareness score, 51.2% of students showed very poor and 39.7% showed poor knowledge about stem cells and their application in neurological diseases. The knowledge score of the students in the medical faculty was higher than non-medical and was dependent on their educational year. In addition, medical students showed no significant difference in neither knowledge (F=1.406, P=0.221) nor attitude (F=0.603, P=0.697) scores. Fortunately, 72.2% of students had moderate and 20.6% had a strong attitude toward stem cell applications. A moderate correlation was observed between attitude toward stem cells and knowledge about the application of stem cells (r=0.325, P=0.000). Conclusion: GUMS students’ knowledge level was poor toward stem cells and their application in neurological diseases. It is suggested to include some courses about stem cells in the educational curriculum. However, the student’s attitude toward the use of stem cells was encouraging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Considering the pathologic significance of inflammation and oxidative stress in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) as well as the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and hypolipidemic effects of melatonin, the current research is designed to investigate the effect of melatonin supplementation on disease activity, oxidative stress, inflammatory, and metabolic parameters in RA patients. Methods: In this randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, 64 RA cases were selected and randomly assigned into 2 groups to take 6 mg/day melatonin or placebo for 12 weeks. Before and after trial, serum malondialdehyde (MDA), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), lipid profile, fasting blood sugar (FBS), and insulin levels were measured and disease activity was determined by disease activity score-28 (DAS-28). Results: Compared to the baseline, melatonin significantly decreased DAS-28, ESR, MDA, and LDL-C by 50.5%, 59%, 97%, and 13%, respectively (P<0.001) and significantly increased TAC by 89% (P=0.013) and HDL-C by 22% (P<0.001). After treatment, considerable differences were only seen between the two groups in serum MDA (P<0.001) and LDL-C (P=0.007) concentrations, adjusted for baseline measures. Moreover, there were no significant changes in DAS-28, ESR, TAC, triglyceride, total cholesterol, HDL-C, FBS, and insulin levels compared to placebo group (P>0.05). Conclusions: Although melatonin supplementation had no beneficial effects on DAS-28, it could lower serum MDA and LDL-C levels. It seems that melatonin supplementation should not be used as a replace for routine drugs prescribed in RA treatment. Further investigations should be conducted to fully understand the effects of melatonin in RA. Key Points • Compared to baseline, melatonin significantly decreased DAS-28, ESR, MDA, and LDL-C and significantly increased TAC and HDL-C. • After treatment, considerable differences were only seen between melatonin and placebo groups in serum MDA and LDL-C concentrations. • After treatment, there were no significant changes in DAS-28, ESR, TAC, triglyceride, total cholesterol, HDL-C, FBS, and insulin levels compared to the placebo group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rivers are one of the most valuable sources of water for drinking, agricultural, and industrial use. In the presented study, water samples collected from different rivers of HablehRood from October Within 23, 2009, to the end of September 2014, were analyzed to assess qualitative analysis and suitability for domestic and irrigation usage. The electrical conductivity (EC) of the river water was within the range of 750–5000 μmoh/cm, sodium adsorption ratio (SAR) Classification indicated that all samples were excellent and good range, sodium percentage (Na %) 20–80%, residual sodium carbonate (RSC) < 1.25 and Wilcox diagram were class 3–4. However, the cation chemistry indicated that out of 73 water samples, average samples showed a dominant sequence of > Na + Mg 2 + > Ca 2 + and Cl - > SO 4 2 - > HCO 3 - . The water quality showed high EC and total dissolved solids (TDS) in all water samples, which reduce quality for livestock and drinking because of high TDS levels. Still, according to the Wilcox diagram is suitable for agriculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: The diagnosis of osteomyelitis is a key step of diabetic foot management. Procalcitonin (PCT) is a novel infection marker. This study aimed to investigate the diagnostic value of procalcitonin and other conventional infection markers and clinical findings in diagnosis of osteomyelitis in diabetic foot patients. METHODS AND MATERIALS: This diagnostic value study was carried out on ninety patients with diabetic infected foot ulcers admitted in Kashan Beheshti Hospital, 2016. After obtaining consent, 10 cc blood sample was taken for measuring serum PCT, CBC, ESR, CRP and FBS. Clinical characteristics of the wounds were noted. Magnetic resonance imaging of the foot was performed in all patients to diagnose osteomyelitis. All statistical analyses were done with the use of SPSS-16. RESULTS: PCT levels were 0.13 ± 0.02 ng/mili patients with osteomyelitis (n = 45) and 0.04 ± 0.02 ng/ml in patients without osteomyelitis (n = 45). PCT, Erythrocyte sedimentation rate and C-reactive protein was found significantly higher in patients with osteomyelitis (p < 0.001). The ROC curve was calculated for PCT. The area under the ROC curve for infection identification was 1 (p < 0.001). The best cut-off value for PCT was 0.085 ng/ml. Sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values were 100%, 97.8%,97.8% and 100%, respectively. CONCLUSION: In this group of patients, PCT was useful to discriminate patients with bone infection. Also, Erythrocyte sedimentation rate and C-reactive protein can be used as a marker of osteomyelitis in diabetic patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cancer is the second leading cause of death in the world and the third leading cause of death in Iran. It has been proven that numerous cancer cases are caused by exposure to environmental pollutants. There is a public health concern regarding an increase in exposure to carcinogens across Iran through different sources (air, food, and water) and a lack of research to address this issue. This study aims to gather data on exposure to heavy metals, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and pesticides and their intake routes during the implementation of a national population health survey. This is a cross-sectional study of environmental pollutants in Iran, with a stratified multi-stage random sampling method, which led to 660 nationally representative samples in 132 clusters in three sequential parts. The first will be questionnaires to obtain demographics, assets, food records, air quality, and food frequency. The second will be physical measurements, including anthropometric and body composition. The third will be lab assessments that measure 26 types of environmental pollutants (7 heavy metals, 16 PAHs, and 3 pesticides) in urine, inhaled air, and consumed food and water of the population under study using ICP-MS and GS-MS devices. The results of this study will inform policymakers and the general population regarding the level of threat and will provide evidence for the development of interventional and observatory plans on the reduction of exposures to these pollutants. It could also be used to develop local standards to control contaminants through the three exposure routes. This study protocol will obtain data needed for policymakers to set surveillance systems for these pollutants at the national and provincial level to address the public concerns regarding the contamination of food, air, and water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most lethal and prevalent cancers throughout the world. Despite the remarkable advance in the field, drug resistance still remains as an unresolved problem in cancer. Hence, finding effective compounds with minimal side effects to fight cancer is of central priority. Herbal products have been traditionally used to prevent and treat a variety of diseases. Methods: In the present study, the antitumor effect of Terminalia catappa plant ethanolic extract (TCE) was assessed on SW480 CRC model cell line. In this regard, effects of TCE were evaluated on the proliferation, apoptosis, and migration of SW480 cells by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay, Annexin V/PI flow cytometry, and scratch tests, respectively. Furthermore, changes in the expression of genes involved in these events including Bax, Bcl-2, Caspase 3, Caspase 8, Caspase 9, MMP-13, miR-21, and miR-34a were measured by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). Results: According to the MTT results, TCE reduced the proliferation of SW480 cells significantly. The flow cytometry test also revealed a notable rate of apoptosis induction after TCE treatment. An inhibitory effect on cell migration was also evident in scratch test. Expression patterns of the assessed genes also changed subsequent to TCE treatment. Conclusion: The results of this study indicated that T. catappa could be considered as a potential source of anticancer compounds and a candidate for further investigations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Apelin is a new adipocytokine that acts as an endogenous hormone in various tissues through its receptor (APJ). This study aimed to investigate the effects of oral administration of L‐carnitine (LC) on the expression of Apelin and APJ in adipose tissue of experimentally induced insulin‐resistant and type 2 diabetic rats. In this experimental study, 60 male rats fed with high fat/high carbohydrate (HF/HC) diet. After 50 mg/kg intraperitoneally injection of streptozotocin (STZ) and confirmation of diabetes (FBS higher than 126 mg/dl), the animals were daily treated with 300 mg/kg LC for 28 days. At days 7, 14, and 28 of posttreatment, the expression of apelin and APJ in adipose tissue were determined using qPCR in diabetic, diabetic + LC treated, control, and control + LC treated groups. Apelin, insulin, TNF‐α, and IL1‐β were measured by the ELISA method. Results demonstrated that the rats fed with the HF/HC diet for 5 weeks were hyperinsulinemic and normoglycemic, while after STZ injection, they showed hyperinsulinemia and hyperglycemia with higher levels of HOMA‐IR. Apelin serum level, APJ and apelin gene expression in adipose tissue increased significantly with the development of diabetes compared to the control group. Treatment with LC for 14 days caused a reduction in apelin and APJ expressions in adipose tissue of diabetic rats. TNF‐α and IL1‐β levels were reduced in diabetic rats 14 days after their treatment with LC. The study results show that L‐carnitine could act as a new regulator in apelin gene expression in adipose tissue, improving the metabolic disorders in diabetic patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Organophosphate pesticides are of concern to the drinking water supply and high risks on human health.Methods:An occurrence survey was performed in the spring and summer of 2016 for 6 months to assess the prevalence of organophosphate pesticides in the Hablehrood River that is located in Semnan Province. Besides, 10 kinds of organophosphate pesticides were sampled in 5stations. Moreover, were measured by Gas Chromatography (GC) was supported by an electron capture detector (ECD) and Turbochrom software. In all stations, Diazin on was detected in the spring and summer, but Malathion only in the spring.Results:The highest concentration of Diazinon was observed at the Mahmoud Abad station in spring (0.94ppb) and the Bonekooh station in the summer (0.93ppb). The highest and lowest concentrations of Malathion were detected in Mahmoud Abad (0.35ppb), and Gache station, respectively. Conclusion: The concentration of pesticides in BoneKooh and Mahmood Abad was higher than the standard. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Milk has a high nutritional value and can affect human health. Therefore, it is important to know the factors affecting its quality. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the raw milk microbial quality and factors affecting it. A total of 4260 raw cow milk samples, which were collected from villages around Garmsar city, Iran, and their microbial load were registered at Garmsar Dairy Cow Association between 2013 and 2014, was used in the present study. The total average ± SD of microbial load concentration was 3.02 × 105 ± 2.75 × 105 (CFU/ml). The average concentration of total bacteria in 2013 was 2.73 × 105 ± 1.58 × 105 (CFU/ml) and in 2014 it was 3.32 × 105 ± 3.93 × 105(CFU/ml). Seasonally, it was 2.94 × 105 ± 1.72 × 105 (CFU/ml), 3.69 × 105 ± 4.55 × 105 (CFU/ml), 2.91 × 105 ± 1.62 × 105 (CFU/ml), and 2.63 × 105 ± 1.67 × 105 (CFU/ml) for spring, summer, autumn, and winter, respectively. There was a significant difference in seasonal average microbial concentration of milk samples (p < 0.05). The present study concludes that microbial load of milk can be affected by environmental and hygienic conditions. Ranchers need to pay more attention to hygiene especially in warm seasons. Because in case of high microbial load in raw milk, even after milk pasteurization, it is not possible to have a high-quality and desirable product. Milk producers and distributors need also awareness in order to reduce the incidence of secondary contamination. But, the main correction is to establish direct supervision of the Ministry of Health onto the health of dairy cow farmers by structural integrity of Veterinary Medical Organization as the global one health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Air pollution and dust storms are associated with increased cardiovascular hospital admissions. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between short-term exposure to ambient air pollutants and CVD (cardiovascular disease) events in a long-term observational period. The study included the events of cardiovascular diseases (namely coronary artery disease, ischemic heart disease, myocardial infarction, and pneumo thrombo embolism) within the population of Shiraz, from March 21, 2009 to March 20, 2015. Also, each patient's demographics were recorded. Main meteorological variables and five ambient pollutants (CO, O3, SO2, NO2, and PM10) were recorded. Statistical analysis was performed using linear regression (GLM) and a generalized additive model (GAM) estimating Poisson distribution and adjusted for the main risk factors and ambient meteorological variables. A mild prevalence (51.5%) of coronary artery disease (CAD) was registered in 6425 events. In GLM analysis, we observed an association among the pollutants with the coronary artery disease hospital admissions which was in the order of CO, NO2, and PM10. The highest association of each pollutant with hospital admission was observed as PM10 at lag 4 (RR = 1.08; 95% CI 1.02, 1.14 and p < 0.05), NO2 at lag 0 (RR = 1.22; 95% CI 1.00, 1.48), and CO at lag 0 (RR = 1.52 95% CI = (1.16, 1.99)). However, on dusty days, there were significantly higher numbers of referrals of cardiovascular patients (mean = 7.54 ± 4.44 and p = 0.002,) than on non-dusty days. According to these data, dust storms and some types of pollutants in the air are responsible for more admissions to hospitals for cardiovascular problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diarrhea is considered as an important cause of morbidity and mortality, even though one of the main reasons of death following diarrhea is initiated by dysentery. In recent years, the consumption of probiotics has been proposed for the treatment of infectious diarrhea. Despite most of the studies on probiotics have focused on acute watery diarrhea, few studies in the field of dysentery have found beneficial effects of probiotics. This study is a randomized double-blind clinical trial. The patients were randomly placed into control and case groups. In the intervention group, the patients received probiotics in the form of Kidilact® sachet, which contained high amounts of 7-strain friendly bacteria strains of Lactobacillus casei, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Lactobacillus bulgaricus, Bifidobacterium infantis, Bifidobacterium breve, and Streptococcus thermophiles. On the other hand, the patients in the control group received placebo sachets on a daily basis for 5 days. It is notable that the treatment protocol of acute dysentery was done on both groups. The results of this study showed significant differences in the duration of blood in diarrhea between probiotic consumers (2.62 days) and the control group (3.16 days) ( P value = 0.05). Additionally, significant differences in the average length of hospitalization in probiotic consumers (3.16 days) and control (3.66 days), ( P value = 0.02) could be claimed that the consumption of probiotics is effective in reducing the duration of dysentery and diarrhea. The results of this study suggest that the use of probiotics can be effective in reducing the duration of blood in diarrhea. This study was also recorded in the Iran center of clinical trials registration database (IRCT2014060617985N1). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Important sources of chemical and biological indoor pollutants include outdoor air, the human body and human activities, emission from materials, furnishings, appliances and use of commodities. The main purpose of this study was to identify culturable indoor airborne bacteria in normal and dust event days in indoor environments of a school, a hospital and a university in Ahvaz city, which individuals such as children, teenagers, adolescences and old people had activity there. Samples were collected using the biostage sampler, an Andersen-based method, with a flow rate of 28.3 l/min, from July 2010 to March 2011. Temperature and humidity were measured and registered in each time of sampling. The identification of bacteria was performed to genus level by using appropriate methods and standard biochemical tests. Gram-positive bacteria in both normal and dust event days with more than 90 % had the highest concentration and frequency. Predominant bacteria in normal and dust event days were Staphylococcus spp. (72.9, 87.9 %), Streptomyces spp. (60.9, 62.1 %), Bacillus spp. (94, 89 %) and Micrococcus spp. (65.4, 71.2 %), respectively. The highest concentrations of bacteria in normal and dust event days were in winter. The range of bacteria in normal and dust event days were 0-4,800 and 210-10,000 cfu/m, respectively. There was a significant difference between the concentration of bacteria in normal and dust event days ( p = 0.001) and also a significant association was found between the concentration of total bacteria with temperature and humidity ( p < 0.05). The concentration of bacteria in dust event days was 1.8 times higher than normal days. Consequently, the concentrations of bacteria in all three sampling sites were higher in dust event days than normal days indicating the impact of dust storms on increased bacterial concentration in indoor environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Middle East Dust storms have greatly affected the south and west parts of Iran during the last decade. The main purpose of this study was to examine and compare culturable airborne bacteria concentration in particulate matter (PM) during normal, semi-dust, and dust event days in different places and seasons in Ahvaz from November 2011 to May 2012. Sampling was performed every 6 days and on dust event days at different sampling stations. The overall mean concentrations of PM, PM, and PM for the entire study period were 598.92, 114.8, and 34.5 μg/m, respectively. The PM concentrations during the dust event days were much higher than normal and semi-dust event days. The highest mean PM concentrations were observed in March 2011. The low PM/PM ratios indicate that these PM are mostly originating from natural sources such as dust storms. The overall mean concentration of total bacteria during the study period was 620.6 CFU/m. The greatest bacterial concentrations were observed during dust event days and at areas with high traffic and more human activities compared with normal days and greener areas. The percentage of gram-positive bacteria was significantly higher than that during the study period (89 vs 11 %). During this study, 26 genera of culturable bacteria were identified from all the sampling stations. The most dominant genera in all sampling stations were Streptomyces, Bacillus, Kocuria, Corynebacterium, and Paenibacillus. The results also showed that there were positive correlations between PM and bacterial concentrations during the study period ( p < 0.05). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Endometriosis is a chronic and progressive gynecological disorder and is manifest by dysmenorrhea and a major cause of infertility and chronic pelvic pain. The study was designed to compare the value of cervico-vaginal fluid of interleukin-1α (IL-1α) in patients with and without endometriosis. Materials and Methods: Fifty women were assessed in this case control study. The case group included 25 patients with endometriosis. The control group included 25 women without any evidence of endometriosis or any other genital disease. Endometriosis was confirmed by laparoscopy and histopathological examination. Cervico-vaginal fluid samples were obtained from patients during the follicular phase and preup surgery to assess the levels of IL-1α in cervico-vaginal fluid. The level of IL-1α was assessed using commercially available Avi Bionhuman Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay kits (FIN-01720, Vantaa, Finland) for IL-1α. Receiver-operator curve analysis was used to estimate the power of IL-1α to distinguish subjects with endometriosis from controls. Results: The cervico-vaginal fluid level of IL-1α in cases was 210.44 ± 40.11 pg/mL and in controls was 54.28 ± 25.73 pg/mL, the differences between two groups was statistically significant (P < 0.0001). The cut-off point for cervico-vaginal fluid IL-1 for endometriosis was 105 pg/mL, with a sensitivity of 100% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 86.2-100), and specificity of 100% (95% CI: 86.2-100). Conclusion: Results show a significant increase in the cervico-vaginal fluid levels of IL- 1α, in women with endometriosis, that it can be a useful marker in the diagnosis of endometriosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: Specific language impiarment (SLI) is one of the most prevalent developmental language disorders its diagnosis is a problematic issue among researchers and clinicians because of the heterogeneity of language profiles in the affected population and overlapping with other developmental language disorders. The aim of this study was to review the suggested diagnostic criteria for this disorder, controversies about these criteria and identify the most accurate diagnostic methods. Methods: Published article from 1980 to 2012 in bibliographic and publisher databases including Pubmed, Google scholar, Cochran library, Web of Science, ProQuest, Springer, Oxford, Science direct, Ovid, Iran Medex and Magiran about the diagnostic methods for discriminating preschoool children with specific language impiarment from normal developing children were reviewd in this article. These keywords were used for research: "specific language impairment", "SLI", "diagnosis or identification", "standardized tests", and "tests for language development". Conclusion: The results of this study show inspite of agreement of researchers and clinicians about exclusionary criteria as one basic part of the diagnosis of specific language impiarment, there is no consensus about the other part, inclusionary criteria. Different studies used different inclusionary criteria which can be divided to categories of clincal judgment, discrepancy-based criteria, standardized testing, clinical markers and markers from spontaneous speech samples. Advantages, disadvantages, and clinical applicability of each diagnostic method are discussed in this article. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gill histological changes were used as a biomarker to evaluate the health of yellowfin seabream, Acanthopagrus latus (A. latus), collected from different sites in Musa Creeks including: (A) Petrochemical, (B) Jaafari, (C) Ghazaleh, (D) Majidieh, and (E) Zangi creeks. Also Genaveh with relatively clean water was selected as reference. The gills of 60 A. latus were fixed in Bouin’s solution for 12 hr, dehydrated in a graded series of ethanol, and embedded in paraffin. Five micrometer thick sections were stained in H&E and Periodic Acid Schiff for microscopic examination. Also, the presence of gill histological alterations was assessed by the histopathologic alteration index (HAI). The gill morphological abnormalities include mucus secretion increase, debris, blood plaque, and shortening of filaments. The gill pathological changes included lamellar cells hyperplasia, aneurysm, lamellar fusion, and epithelial lifting. The HAI means were varied from moderate to severe in sites A and B, thus these sites are considered as being of low quality. Some severe pathological alterations were observed in site D, but their distribution was lower than sites A and B. The least HAI means of sites C and E demonstrated their good environmental quality. The results suggest that there is close relation between amounts of pathological alterations and environmental contamination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The first purpose of our study was to determine culturable indoor airborne fungi in different places in Ahvaz during normal and dust event days. Ahvaz is the biggest city in southwest of Iran which has suffered from dust storms in recent decade. To minimize personal exposure to polluted air, governmental and private sectors excluding critical places such as hospitals, fire department and security organization are closed during dust event days. Therefore, the second objective of this survey was to see whether this plan (forced shutdown) is in place. Samples were collected from July 2010 to March 2011 by using quick take 30 equipped with a single-stage sampler. Fungal population was measured in school, university and hospital during normal and dust event days. Five dominant fungi genera in three sampling stations were Cladosporium, Alternaria, Aspergillus, Penicillium and Rhizopus the concentrations (CFU/m) of which were higher during dust events than normal days. Airborne fungi such as Aspergillus, Mucor and Rhizopus are opportunistic fungi which can cause aspergillusis and mucormycosis infections in immunodeficiency individuals, vulnerable groups as well as healthy people. The results of this study confirmed the measure of forced shutdown in Ahvaz city due to increased concentration of fungi during dust event days. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims: Approximately 5% of cancers involve structures of oral cavity. Partial resection of maxilla (maxillectomy) may be performed in these cases. Maxillectomy often results in significant functional disabilities such as inability in mastication, deglutition and speech with adverse impact on psychological status and social life of patients. Obturator prosthesis is a prosthodontic treatment to separate nasal and oral cavities and restore the critical above mentioned functions. The assessment of speech is considered to examine speech function restored by the treatment. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the speech in patients with resected maxilla who have been treated by obturator prosthesis from a pool of related patients in the Prosthodotnics department of dental faculty, Tehran University of Medical Sciences. The evaluation was performed with computer software using sentence intelligibility (SI) test. Materials and Methods: This cross sectional study was conducted on 10 subjects (23-66 years) referred to the Prosthodontics department of the faculty and received an obturator. After primary examination of the prosthesis, the patients completed SI test in an acoustic room under guidance of a speech therapist. The performed tests were analyzed by the speech therapist. In addition, the SI with and without the prosthesis was evaluate by lay audience. The statistical analyses were performed using Wilcoxon-signed rank test and Weighted Kappa. Results: Significant differences were found between SI tests with and without the obturators (P<0.001). Two of 10 patients showed problems in speech function using obturator. Conclusion: Within the limitations of the present study, obturators had significant effect on improvement of the speech outcomes of examined patients. Improvement of the quality of life could be predicted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Because of the recent frequent observations of major dust storms in southwestern cities in Iran such as Ahvaz, and the importance of the ionic composition of particulate matters regarding their health effects, source apportionment, etc., the present work was conducted aiming at characterizing the ionic composition of total suspended particles (TSP) and particles on the order of ∼10 μm or less (PM) during dust storms in Ahvaz in April-September 2010. TSP and PM samples were collected and their ionic compositions were determined using an ion chromatography. Mean concentrations of TSP and PM were 1,481.5 and 1,072.9 μg/m, respectively. Particle concentrations during the Middle Eastern Dust (MED) days were up to four times higher than those in normal days. Ionic components contributed to only 9.5% and 11.3% of the total mass of TSP and PM, respectively. Crustal ions were most abundant during dust days, while secondary ions were dominant during non-dust days. Ca/Na and Cl/Na ratios can be considered as the indicators for identification of the MED occurrence. It was found that possible chemical forms of NaCl, (NH)SO, KCl, KSO, CaCl, Ca(NO), and CaSO may exist in TSP. Correlation between the anionic and cationic components suggests slight anion and cation deficiencies in TSP and PM samples, though the deficiencies were negligible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Selenium, like other trace elements and antioxidant enzymes, is known as an antioxidant and immunomodulator trace element. Due to recent evidence for selenium deficiency in Behcet's syndrome, this study is to evaluate the correlation of serum selenium level with Behcet's disease (BD). Materials: This case-control study was conducted on 46 BD patients and 46 healthy controls in a rheumatology research centre. The case and control groups were both age- and race-matched. Serum selenium level was then measured by atomic absorption spectrometry Shimadzu AA-680. Average serum levels of both groups were then compared and analyzed using t-test. Results: Mean serum selenium levels of patients appeared to be 66.4 ± 15.38 μg/L which was significantly lower than that in the healthy controls (86.87 ± 17.18 μg/L) ( P < 0.005). Taking physician global assessment of disease activity into account, significant difference was detected between the patients with active disease (66.57 ± 15.21 μg/L) and those in the inactive state (65.83 ± 14.75 μg/L). Regardless of the findings mentioned above, serum selenium level was meaningfully elevated among the patients with ocular involvement ( P < 0.001). Conclusions: These findings demonstrated that selenium serum level among BD patients was lower than that in healthy controls, whereas among the patients with ocular involvement it was higher than those not involved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Influenza A (H1N1) imposed a considerable burden on our health community. This study was conducted to evaluate the clinical and paraclinical pattern of the disease in influenza A (H1N1) patients in Kashan. Materials and Methods: This descriptive study was carried out on 87 definite cases of pandemic influenza A (H1N1) diagnosed from July to January 2009 in Kashan. The clinical and paraclinical information were collected and analyzed by SPSS-13. Results: The majority of patients were in age group 16-25 years and 50.6% of patients were male. The most common clinical symptoms were fever (92%), cough (78.2%) and dyspnea (54%). The most important paraclinical findings were: leokocytosis (41.3%) increased ESR (46.6%), positive CRP (48.7%). The mortality was seen in 8 patients (9.2%). Conclusion: Regarding to majority of death has occurred in patients with underlying disease, annual prophylaxis by influenza vaccine and early treatment to prevent of morbidity and mortality is recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]