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This study aimed at examining the global standards of teacher effectiveness to be employed to evaluate teacher candidates in the English teacher recruitment process. For this purpose, the global standards of teacher effectiveness and the qualities indicative of them were extracted from the documents. Then, the educational managers of thirty English language institutes were interviewed to discover the extent to which theses global standards are considered for teacher selection in the language institutes in Iran. The use of global standards by the language institutes would confirm the fact that they are applicable to the recruitment process. Next, the global standards were used to employ five English teachers in a language institute in Kerman, Iran. The classroom behavior of these teachers was observed by the institute supervisor. Moreover, the perceptions of the recruited teachers' students were probed by means employing a questionnaire containing the criteria of teacher effectiveness. The results of the study indicated that the educational managers of the institutes approved of the majority of the global standards to be used in the English teacher recruitment process. The perceptions of the students and those of the supervisor also manifested that the recruited teachers are doing their jobs well, which would verify the appropriateness of the criteria used for teacher selection. Based on the results, a framework for English teacher recruitment encompassing the global standards of teacher effectiveness, their definitions, and the qualities indicative of them was suggested.

The medical tourism industry has been observing significant developments in Iran. This country has been attracting tourists from countries in the Middle East and different regions of the world for a long time. However, nowadays, the Iran medical tourism industry faces serious barriers and challenges which deteriorate its participation in the global medical tourism market. The present article aims to investigate the barriers to the development of medical tourism in this country. In this regard, by reviewing the related literature and a weighted content validity ratio (CVR) analysis, 17 critical barriers were identified and finalised. Then, their casual relations were determined using a fuzzy cognitive mapping (FCM) methodology. The data gathered by a panel consisted of 10 experts in the field of medical tourism. The results show that five barriers, including managers' lack of knowledge, lack of strategic planning, lack of cooperation and coordination, weak government support and lack of enabling tourism sector, are considered the most important. The findings of this research provide opportunities for practitioners and policymakers to concentrate on Iran's medical tourism in order to overcome the barriers and consequently enhance the development of this lucrative industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study has examined the characteristics of physics teachers, their professional competences, supplies of equipments and technologies, appropriate textbooks and motivational factors in students' learning of physics from female physics teacher's points of view. The population included all female physics teachers in Isfahan city and a total of 88 teachers were selected as sample of study. The study was a descriptive survey that used researcher made questionnaire consists of 46 items. Cronbach's alpha coefficient for this scale was set to be 0.95. For data analysis, descriptive statistics, t-tests and ANOVA test were used. The results showed that in the present state, physics teachers have a low level of scientific knowledge. In terms of professional skills, their abilities were average and educational equipments and technologies were available at low level. Moreover the satisfaction of female physics teachers of books and educational texts was moderate. Meanwhile, the motivation for learning the lessons of physics was moderate. Also the results in desired state showed that all components of study could be effective in learning physics. Accordingly, it is recommended to enhance learning and teaching physics education, school should be equipped to supplies and technologies for teaching physics, including virtual laboratory.

Introduction: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic and debilitating disease that not only leads to disability and associated condition but also impacts one's ability to maintain a professional life. People's acceptance and utilization of medicinal plants (MPs) play an important role in managing their treatment process. As a result, this study aims to investigate the use of medicinal herbs among patients with MS. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on 150 MS patients who visited a private clinic and the MS Association in Kerman, Iran in 2021. A questionnaire comprising questions about sociodemographic information, disease variables, and aspects of MPs usage was utilized for data collection. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 20 (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL). The Chi-square test was employed to identify any association between demographic characteristics and MPs usage. To determine the prevalence of plant use in a specific area and the consensus among informants, the use value (UV) and Informant consensus factor (Fic) were calculated. Results: The study revealed a high prevalence of MPs usage among MS patients. Chamomile (66.6%) and golegavzaban (62.0%) were the most commonly used plants with the highest UV indices (0.88 and 0.82 respectively), while St. John's wort and licorice were rarely used (0.67% and 4% respectively). Participants cited pursuing a healthier lifestyle as the primary reason for using MPs (24%). St. John's wort, lavender, and chamomile were the most satisfying plants (100%, 100%, and 53.0% respectively). Chamomile had the highest Fic too. Most patients were motivated to get MPs from their relatives. Conclusions: Given the widespread use of MPs among MS patients, neurologists should enhance their knowledge in this area to guide patients away from seeking advice from non-professionals. Providing standardized formulations can help prevent potential interactions between MPs and mainstream drugs, thereby improving patients safety and outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Celiac disease (CD) is a multifactorial systemic disease that causes enteropathy and can lead to a wide spectrum of disorders related to infertility. Objectives: This case-control study aimed to evaluate the frequency of celiac disease (CD) and its association with infertility in women. Methods: This study was conducted on women referred to Ghadir Mother and Child Hospital in Shiraz. Women with infertility served as the case group, while fertile women comprised the control group. Blood samples were collected from participants, and tissue anti-transglutaminase (Anti-TTG Ab) levels were measured. Patients with elevated Anti-TTG Ab levels were referred for duodenal biopsy. Results: One hundred subjects were enrolled in the case group and 200 in the control group. Eight patients in the case group tested positive for serology, and four of these had duodenal biopsies confirming CD. In the control group, one individual tested positive for serology, but the duodenal biopsy was negative (P for between-group differences: 0.001 for serology and 0.012 for biopsy results). There was a significant association between high levels of Anti-TTG Ab and infertility (odds ratio = 17.30, 95 % CI: 2.13 - 140.39), which remained even after adjusting for age and body mass index (odds ratio = 9.92, 95 % CI: 1.17 - 84.21). Conclusions: The frequency of CD was higher among infertile women compared to fertile women. Increased levels of Anti-TTG Ab were independently associated with infertility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Scorpion stings pose a significant public health concern in Iran, resulting in approximately 45,000-50,000 cases and 19 deaths annually. The Khuzestan and Hormozgan provinces have the highest reported incidence rates, with an estimated 36,000 cases each year. This study focused on modeling the time series data of scorpion stings, specifically in Shoushtar City, from 2017 to 2022. Our objective was to investigate the presence of seasonality and long-term trends in the incidence of scorpion stings by utilizing advanced analytical techniques, such as the Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA) model. We applied the seasonal ARIMA model to fit a univariate time series of scorpion sting incidence. This study revealed a significant seasonal trend and an overall increase and decrease in scorpion sting cases during the study period. The best-fitting model for the available data was a seasonal ARIMA model in the form of ARIMA(0,0,1)(1,1,1)12. This model can forecast the frequency of scorpion sting cases in Southwestern Iran over the next two years. As a result, time series analysis can provide valuable insights into the patterns and trends of scorpion sting incidents, allowing for better planning and allocation of healthcare resources. By understanding the seasonal variations, proactive measures can be implemented to address the growing issue of scorpion stings in Iran effectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Communication skills in establishing positive interactions and constructive conflict management are directly and significantly associated with job satisfaction. This study investigated the effectiveness of communication skills training on job satisfaction and conflict resolution among emergency medical technicians (EMTs). Methods: The current research was a quasi-experimental study with a pretest-posttest design and a control group. The research statistical population consisted of all EMTs in Rafsanjan city, Iran, in 2016 (n = 280). By utilizing a purposive sampling technique, 30 EMTs were chosen. The participants were randomly divided into two groups of intervention and control (n = 15). The intervention group underwent 8 sessions of training during 2 months (a 1.5-hour session per week) (Fetterman & Wandersman, 2012). The data collection tools included the Job Descriptive Index (JDI; Smith et al., 1969), and Dubrin Job Conflict Questionnaires (DJCQ; 1985). In order to analyze the data analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) was used in SPSS software (Dubrin, 1985). Results: The results showed that communication skills training was effective on job satisfaction (F = 4.637; P = 0.04) and conflict resolution (F = 7.654; P = 0.003) among EMTs. Discussion: To optimize the impact of communication abilities on emergency care personnel, it is advisable to devise tailor-made workshops separately for different EMTs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There is no systematic review on the prevalence of HIV drug resistance (HIVDR) in Iran. We aimed to estimate the prevalence of HIVDR among people living with HIV (PLHIV) in Iran. We assessed HIVDR prevalence in antiretroviral therapy (ART) naïve PLHIV (i.e., those without a history of ART) and PLHIV receiving ART. Method: We systematically searched Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, Iranian databases (Iranian Medical Research Information System, Magiran, and Scientific Information Database), the references of studies, and Google Scholar until March 2023. A random-effects model was used to calculate a point estimate and 95% confidence interval (95% CI) for the prevalence of HIVDR in PLHIV. Results: Among 461 potential publications, 22 studies were included in the meta-analysis. The pooled prevalence of acquired HIVDR in PLHIV receiving ART was 34% (95% CI: 19, 50) for nucleoside/nucleotide reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs), 27% (95% CI: 15, 41) for non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs), and 9% (95% CI: 3, 18) for protease inhibitors (PIs). The pooled prevalence of acquired HIVDR in treatment failure PLHIV was 50% (95% CI: 31, 69) for NRTIs, 49% (95% CI: 29, 69) for NNRTIs, 11% (95% CI: 2, 24) for PIs, and 1% (95% CI: 0, 4) for integrase inhibitors (INIs). The pooled prevalence of transmitted HIVDR in ART-naïve people was 3% (95% CI; 1, 6) for NRTIs, 5% (95% CI: 2, 9) for NNRTIs, and 0 for PIs and INIs. Conclusion: The prevalence of HIVDR was relatively high in both ART-naïve PLHIV and those receiving ART. Without universal pretreatment HIVDR testing and more frequent routine HIV viral load testing among PLHIV who are on ART, the HIVDR prevalence might increase in PLHIV in Iran. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For the past 6 months, there has been an ongoing revolution in Iran after the brutal death of Zhina (Mahsa) Amini in morality police custody. Iranian universities' professors and students have been on the frontline of this revolution and have been fired or sentenced. On the other hand, Iranian high schools and primary schools have been under suspected toxic gas attack. In the current article, the latest status of oppression of the university students and professors and toxic gas attack on primary and high schools in Iran has been evaluated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates the impact of diversification strategy on firm performance. The paper looks into three dimensions of diversification strategy in terms of staff, product and geographical presence, using return on asset (ROA) and return on equity (ROE) to proxy for financial performance. Using the fixed effects regression estimation method to analyze the data of 30 Iranian insurance companies in the period from 2012-2021, the article finds a significant positive impact of diversification in terms of staff education on ROA, while the relationships between staff diversification in terms of gender and experience with ROA are significantly negative. No significant relationship is found between diversification in terms of geographical presence, insurance policy, and premium with ROA. When ROE measures financial performance, the research reports significantly positive effects of diversification on ROE in terms of education and insurance policy. In contrast, the relationships between diversification in terms of gender and premium with ROE are found to be significantly negative. Meanwhile, the effects of diversification on ROE in terms of geographical presence and experience are insignificant. The paper contributes to the literature on diversification strategy by developing specific models to measure staff, geographic and product diversification strategies in the insurance industry. It also adds to the literature on the diversification-performance nexus by bringing fresh insight into the multiple dimensions of diversification strategies and their impacts on firms' profitability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Background: Organizational ethics focuses on the importance of how organizations behave when faced with specific situations and decisions. This study aims to identify and prioritize organizational ethics indicators in Imam Khomeini Hospital Complex (IKHC) in Iran. Materials and Methods: This was a mixed method research project. To recognize hospital ethics indicators, 18 semistructured interviews were conducted and 38 indicators were identified through thematic analysis. In the next stage, a quantitative approach was adopted to use the importance performance matrix for data analysis. This part was a descriptive survey with a statistical population consisting of nurses, medical, clinical, and administrative staff. The questionnaire was distributed using the random sampling method, and a total of 349 samples were collected. Results: Based on the interviews and open coding, 73 themes were identified for organizational ethics indicators and classified into two main groups: "ethics drivers in hospital" and "personal ethics." After measuring content validity, 35 indicators of organizational ethics in IKHC were examined in terms of importance and performance. The results showed that nine indicators had high importance and poor performance, 11 had high importance and performance, nine had low importance and performance, and finally six indicators had low importance and high performance, and according to these findings, practical suggestions were put forward. Conclusions: Based on the identified indices and by applying importance performance analysis, it is recommended to continually assess the status of ethics in hospitals and offer strategies for improving organizational ethics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the developmental and fossilized prepositional errors in Persian EFL learners' compositions at three levels of proficiency; participants were divided into lower-intermediate, upper-intermediate, and advanced levels. For each participant, four compositions were collected, and after identifying the prepositional errors for each level, their frequency and mean differences were compared across these levels to identify developmental and fossilized errors. Fifteen prepositional error types were identified, of which the most frequently made was the wrong selection of prepositions before nouns. Out of 15 error types, two were identified as developmental and 12 as fossilized. Findings indicate that most of the students committed fossilized errors, which shows the permanent retention of prepositional errors in their compositions. Accordingly, serious pedagogical consideration needs to be given to the teaching of prepositions to improve the writing competence of Iranian EFL learners. (Contains 13 tables.)

Purpose: This paper aims to identify and analyze the barriers to the implementation of the United Nations Industrial Development Organization's programxk for export consortia in the Iranian handmade carpet industry. Design/methodology/approach: To accomplish its objectives, the study relied on a mixed (qualitative and quantitative) research method. Primarily, unstructured interviews were conducted to identify the effective barriers. Then, the validity of the barriers identified was evaluated through content validity ratio analysis. Finally, the interrelationships between the barriers were determined using the rough decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory technique (DEMATEL). Findings: Results revealed that "a lack of leadership," "a traditional business environment" and "a lack of awareness of consortium benefits" were the most significant causal barriers. Meanwhile, the most important effect barriers were "a lack of long-term vision," "a lack of business ethics" and "a lack of motivation." Practical implications: The findings and results could help the stakeholders of the handmade carpet industry in Iran to improve existing export consortium programs, increasing the country's share in the global markets in this industry. Originality/value: This investigation seeks to fill an existing gap in the literature on export consortium formation in the handmade carpet industry by providing a network of barriers for the first time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Surfactant therapy has revolutionized the treatment of respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) over the past few decades. Relying on a new method, the current research seeks to compare four common surfactants in the health market of Iran to determine the best surfactant according to the selected criteria. The research was a cross-sectional, retrospective study that used the data of 13,169 infants as recorded on the information system of the Iranian Ministry of Health. To rank the surfactants used, the following indicators were measured: re-dosing rate, average direct treatment cost, average length of stay, disease burden, need for invasive mechanical ventilation, survival at discharge, and medical referrals. The CRITIC (criteria importance through intercriteria correlation) method was used to determine the weight of the indicators, and MABAC (multi-attributive border approximation area comparison) was used to prioritize the surfactants. Based on the seven selected indicators in this research (re-dosing rate, average length of stay, direct medical cost per one prescription, medical referral rate, survival at discharge, disability-adjusted life years, number of newborns in need of invasive mechanical ventilation) and using multi-criteria analysis method, Alveofact was identified as the worst surfactant in infants with either more or less than 32 weeks' gestation. So that some criteria were worse in Alveofact group infants than other groups; for example, in the comparison of the Alveofact group with the average of the total population, it was found that the survival rate at discharge was 57.14% versus 66.43%, and the rate of re-dosing was 1.63 versus 1.39. BLES (bovine lipid extract surfactant) was the best alternative for infants more than 32 weeks' gestation, whereas Survanta was identified as best option for infants with less than 32 weeks' gestation. Curosurf showed an average level of functionality in the ranking. This study advises the policy makers in the field of neonatal health to increase the market share of more effective surfactants based on this study and other similar studies. On the other hand, neonatal health care providers are also advised to prioritize the use of more effective surfactants if possible, depending on the clinical conditions and desired improvements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Toxocariasis as a common neglected disease is the culprit of infecting all age groups. The current cross-sectional study was designed to assess the seroprevalence of toxocariasis and risk factors associated with seropositivity of Toxocara infection among the general population of adults in the Kavar district, south of Iran. A total of 1060 participants with an age range of 35 to 70 years from the Kavar region entered the study. Manual ELISA was utilized to detect anti-Toxocara-specific antibodies in their serum samples. In addition, demographic information as well as risk factors related to toxocariasis was collected from individuals who participated in the survey. The mean age of the participants was 48.9 (±7.9) years old. Out of 1060 subjects, 532 (50.2%) were men, and 528 (49.8%) were women. The overall Toxocara seroprevalence was 5.8% (61/1060). The prevalence of Toxocara seropositive cases was significantly different between males and females (p = 0.023). The seropositive rate for Toxocara infection was also significantly higher in housewives (p = 0.003) and subjects with learning disabilities (p = 0.008). Multivariable logistic regression revealed that housewives (OR = 2.04, 95% CI: 1.18–3.51, p = 0.010) and subjects with learning disability (OR = 3.32, 95% CI: 1.29–8.52, p = 0.013) were at increased risk of Toxocara infection. The findings of the current study depicted a noticeable seroprevalence of Toxocara infection in the general population in the Kavar district, southern Iran. An increased risk of toxocariasis has been associated with learning disabilities and being a housewife. All of the toxocariasis-positive cases had contact with animals, at some point in their life. In perspective, it is necessary to raise awareness of this infection among the population while surveilling Toxocara infection in high-risk groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In addition to the waste of resources and economic losses, environmental damage by gas flaring is widespread and significant. Since flaring the associated gas gives no added value in exchange for its pollution and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, it could be identified as a top priority for mitigation. Iran is the third gas flaring country after Russia and Iraq among those facing this issue, and is responsible for 12.1% of the world's gas flaring. While the necessity of developing a method for the precise estimation of flaring GHG emissions is clear, especially for evaluating the result of countries' efforts to meet their nationally determined contribution target, there are huge uncertainties and discrepancies in the values of emission factors among various data sources due to the lack of actual measurements of the volume and diversity of the composition of flare gas. This study aimed to fill the gap in providing authentic data on Iran's gas flaring GHG and air pollutant emissions by developing a model based on satellite data on flare volumes, gas compositions, and combustion equations. Our results revealed that based on 2021 data on flaring volume, Iranian gas flares are emitting approximately 50 million metric tons of CO2 equivalent to the atmosphere annually, which could be reduced to 43 by only enhancing the flares' efficiency. It accounted for 5.5%–6% of the total GHG emissions of the country. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2023;19:735–748. © 2022 SETAC. Key Points: Iranian gas flares are emitting some 50 million metric tons of CO2 equivalent to the atmosphere annually, accounting for 5.5%–6% of the country's total GHG emissions.Slight increases in the flare's destruction efficiency can cause a huge decrease in its value of global warming potential.The gas flare's emission factors suggested by USEPA would be reliable only if a combustion efficiency of 98% and a destruction efficiency of 99% were considered, while emission factors suggested by Ecoinvent seem to be too optimistic to be true.By taking advantage of fair access to financial opportunities and international cooperation envisaged through the Convention (COP21), the Paris Agreement could be a historic opportunity for the complete elimination of gas flaring from Iran's upstream and downstream oil industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction : Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common complication in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery and is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. We investigated the association of urine output (U/O) during cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) with postoperative AKI in a cohort of patients undergoing elective CABG. Materials and Methods : This single-center retrospective study used data from patients undergoing elective CABG with CPB (March 2015 to March 2020). Demographic data and perioperative information were extracted from the Patients' records. Urine output during CPB and in the first 3 days after surgery was also recorded. Acute kidney injury was defined according to the Acute Kidney Injury Network (AKIN) classification. Spearman's correlation analysis was used to evaluate the relationship between quantitative variables and multiple logistic regression analysis was applied to determine AKI predictors. Results : A total of 532 patients with a mean age of 56.83 ± 7.99 years were analyzed. In the first 48 h after surgery, the incidence of AKI was 18%, of which, 7 (2.7%) patients developed stage II of AKI. There was no significant correlation between U/O during CPB and change in postoperative blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine. Oliguria during CPB was not observed in any of the patients. Age and duration of bypass were identified as predictors of AKI. Conclusion : In this study, the incidence of AKI was 18% and there was no significant correlation between U/O during CPB and changes in postoperative BUN and creatinine. Age and duration of bypass were independent risk factors of AKI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Health-related quality of life (HRQOL) assessment in patients with celiac disease (CD) leads to understanding the impact of the CD and interventions on the individual and society. The aim of this study was transcultural adaptation and evaluation of the reliability and validity of the standardized questionnaire of celiac disease quality of life (CD-QOL) in the Persian language in southwest Iran. Methods:150 adults with CD were randomly selected from the celiac clinic and Fars Celiac Registry to complete the New Persian version of the CD-QOL questionnaire. Transcultural adaptation of the questionnaire was conducted by a four-step procedure. The internal consistency of the CD-QOL subscales and convergent and discriminant validity were assessed using Cronbach's alpha coefficient and Spearman's correlation, respectively. Construct validity was evaluated by exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis. Results: All domains of the CD-QOL questionnaire had acceptable internal consistency, showing excellent reliability. The scaling success rates for convergent and discriminant validity were also within an acceptable range (87-100%). In the factor analysis model, similar to the original English version, four factors were extracted characterizing the patients' answers (limitations, dysphoria, health concerns, and inadequate treatment). Conclusion: Our Persian version of the CD-QOL questionnaire had high reliability and validity and could be used in clinical practice assessing the CD-specific HRQOL in the Iranian population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The water crisis is the main stress in arid and semi-arid areas, especially in rural areas where agriculture is the main livelihood. This study assessed vulnerability to water scarcity in six rural regions of Isfahan, Iran. These areas have lost their primary water source of agriculture, the Zayandeh Rud River, since 2006. They have confronted many socio-ecological problems which threatened their existence. A mixed methodology was used to assess vulnerability as a function of exposure, sensitivity, and adaptive capacity. Structured questionnaires and in-depth interviews were conducted with key informants and 266 households. The method of Multidimensional Poverty Index was applied to calculate the sensitivity index, which has not been used for sensitivity assessment yet. The results showed that the leading cause of water scarcity is poor water governance. The three districts that had direct access to the Zayandeh Rud river were more vulnerable to water scarcity (scores of 0.35, 0.39, and 0.44) than those that had never had direct access to the river (scores of 0.19, 0.21, and 0.23) due to the more exposure and less adaption to water shortage. Inappropriate financial resilience (from 0.24 to 0.41) and living standards (from 0.19 to 0.36) have made more contributions to creating sensitivity than socioeconomic factors (from 0.14 to 0.28). Different natural capitals have mainly created differences in adaptive capacity across rural areas. Villages located downstream have lost their natural capital due to water-quality degradation caused by river drying up and groundwater overexploitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Methanol is the simplest yet toxic alcohol found in many households and industrial materials. Exposure to methanol can be hazardous, and if left untreated, can result in mortality or severe morbidity. Methanol poisoning is mostly accidental, but it can result in mortality and severe morbidity. Due to the high prevalence of ECG changes in patients with methanol poisoning, this study aimed to evaluate the relationship of these ECG changes with methanol poisoning in determining the prognosis of the patients. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 114 patients with acute methanol poisoning at the Shahid Rajaei Hospital in Karaj, Alborz Province, Iran. Clinical, laboratory and ECG variables were evaluated. Furthermore, the gathered data were analyzed with SPSS software. Results: 1.8% of patients had a PR interval of less than 121ms, and 3.5% had more than 200ms. Among various ECG changes, only PR intervals of more than were significantly associated with mortality. Patients with short QT intervals had the highest PCO2, PH, and HCO3. On the other hand, people with long QT had the lowest amount of PCO2, PH, and HCO3, which was statistically significant. Laboratory tests showed significant differences in serum potassium level and blood PH between died and survived patients. Discussion and conclusion: In our study, the most common finding in ECG was sinus tachycardia, and short QT was the second most common finding, which is consistent with other studies. Our study found that in ECGs, only PR intervals more than 200 have a significant relationship with mortality, which supports previous studies. Finally, it was that mortality in patients with methanol poisoning is significantly associated with PR interval prolongation, acidosis, and hyperkalemia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: One of the most effective strategies to improve the access of community members to health services is to regionalize health services. The purpose of this study is to examine and prioritize measures that could help to counteract obstacles and problems in implementing the regionalization of healthcare in Iran. Methods: The study relied on a mixed research method, including qualitative and quantitative phases. First, by conducting semi-structured interviews and analyzing them through qualitative content analysis, the obstacles and measures were identified. In the quantitative phase, the obstacles identified were weighted using the fuzzy best-worst method (FBWM), and the measures were then prioritized through the fuzzy TOPSIS (FTOPSIS) method. Results: The obstacles were categorized into four main dimensions: "infrastructural," "political," "human resources," and "managerial." Among the 15 obstacles identified, "absence of performance guarantees" was the most important obstacle, while "insufficient education" was the least important obstacle to the regionalization of healthcare services in Iran. Meanwhile, the following eight measures that could help to overcome the obstacles were extracted from the interviews: "conducting a needs assessment," "providing clinical guidelines," "employing specialized human resources," "reinforcing the referral system," and "preparing electronic health records," "enhancing education and information dissimilation," "building executive support," and "providing cost-effective equipment and technology." "Employing specialized human resources" was also the most effective measure to overcome the obstacles. Conclusions: Iranian healthcare policy-makers can use the empirical findings of this investigation to accelerate the implementation of Iran's regionalization plan to improve the access of community members to healthcare services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There is limited and conflicting evidence on the association between selenium and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Therefore, the present population-based cross-sectional study aimed to explore the relationship between dietary selenium intake and the risk of NAFLD. Methods: A total of 3026 subjects from the PERSIAN (Prospective Epidemiological Research Studies in IrAN) Kavar cohort study were included in the analysis. The daily selenium intake was evaluated using a semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire, and energy-adjusted quintiles of selenium intake (µg/day) were calculated. NAFLD was defined as the fatty liver index (FLI) ≥ 60 or the hepatic steatosis index (HSI) > 36. The association between dietary selenium intake and NAFLD was evaluated using logistic regression analysis. Results: The prevalence rates of NAFLD were 56.4% and 51.9%, based on the FLI and HSI markers, respectively. The odds ratios (ORs) for FLI-defined NAFLD were 1.31 (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.01–1.70) and 1.50 (95% CI: 1.13–1.99) for the fourth and fifth quintiles of selenium intake, respectively, after adjustment for sociodemographic variables, smoking status, alcohol drinking, physical activity, and dietary factors (P trend = 0.002). There was also a similar association between selenium intakes and HSI-defined NAFLD (OR = 1.34 (95% CI: 1.03–1.75) for the fourth quintile and OR = 1.50 (95% CI: 1.12–2.01) for the fifth quintile of selenium intake) (P trend = 0.006). Conclusion: In this large sample study, we observed a weak positive association between dietary selenium intake and NAFLD risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Relations between Iran and Russia have a long history. The relationship between the people living in the regions known today as the Russian Federation and the Iranians goes back thousands of years. But it was in the last two hundred years that the relations between the two sides reached their peak. In tsarist Russia, geopolitics and Russia's desire to develop its territory in the south was the most important factor in bilateral relations. With the rise of the Soviet Union, the ideological element was also added to this trend. The Soviet Union considered Iran as one of the countries leaning towards the West and based on this, it adjusted its foreign policy toward Iran. As a result of this historical relationship, different images of Russia have been constructed in the minds of Iranian elites and ordinary people. Many works have been written in Iran about the history of Iran and Soviet / Russian relations, and there is a lot of information about the image of Russians by Iranians. However, Iranian researchers have not paid much attention to the image and position of Iran in the Soviet Union/Russia. This is despite the fact that, according to constructivists, the identity of players of the international system has a vital role in their relations. They believe, identity is a relational phenomenon. This means that regardless of the image that each actor has of himself, the image of other actors will also be of great importance in determining bilateral relations. There are different ways to identify the constructed image of a country in other countries. One of the best sources is to check educational resources. Especially in the Soviet Union, which had a very ideological view of education, examining educational sources can be very useful. Based on this and considering the significant identity changes that occurred with the collapse of the Soviet Union, it is expected that the constructed image of Iran in the educational resources of the Soviet Union/ Russian Federation has faced significant changes. Accordingly, in this article, we examine the image of Iran in the Soviet Union/Russian Federation and determine the impact of identity changes that occurred in Iran and Russia on this image. In this regard, in qualitative research, using the case study method, we examine the constructed image of Iran in history textbooks in the Soviet Union and the Russian Federation . Research Question: During the last one-hundred years, what image of Iran has been created in Russia and how have the developments of the two countries affected it? Research Hypothesis: In the past one-hundred years, a marginal image of Iran has been constructed in Russia, and despite the identity changes that have occurred in Iran and Russia, there has been no change in this constructed image. Methodology (and theoretical framework if there are): According to constructivists, the identity of players has a vital role in forming relationships between them. Constructivists consider identity a relational and variable phenomenon formed in different periods. Another essential characteristic of identity, according to them, is that it is relational. In this sense, regardless of each player's image of themselves, the image that other players make of them also plays a vital role in defining their identity. In this regard, by using the theory of constructivism, we will try to identify the constructed image of Iran in Russia and open a path to identify the effect of this constructed image on the relations between the two countries. This article is the result of qualitative research. We use the case study method to conduct this research. A case study analyzes a specific research plan and examines a problem. Its purpose is to use the available information to predict future trends. Considering that the main sources of our research were the textbooks of the Soviet Union/Russian Federation, we have used the thematic analysis method to conduct our research. Results and Discussion: Based on the information obtained, we concluded that the image of Iran in the Soviet Union/Russian Federation is marginal and unimportant. The identity changes in both countries have not changed this image. Conclusion: The study of the history of relations between Iran and Russia highlights two important features: first, the disconnection and instability of bilateral relations; Second, the dependence of these relations on the position of two countries, especially Russia, in the international system. Another critical point revealed in this article's result is that despite the changes in both countries in the last 100 years, there has been no significant change in the mentality of Russians towards Iran. Based on the travelogues of Russian travelers and textbooks of the era of the Soviet Union and the Russian Federation, it can be said that relations with Iran were not very important for the Russians. In addition, the Russians' narrative of the relations between the two countries is distorted and different from the Iranians' narrative of history. Another noteworthy point is the lack of attention from Russian history education sources to the occurrence of the Islamic Revolution and the fundamental changes that took place in the Islamic Republic of Iran. As a result, considering the demarcations formed by the decision-makers of the Islamic Republic in recent years in the "Looking to the East" policy and expanding relations with Russia, it is appropriate to take measures to portray Iran more accurately in Russian society. With the creation of a more accurate image of Iran in Russia, we can hope for the expansion of mutual relations and more cultural exchanges and strengthen bilateral relations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Motivation is important as one of the major factors for incidence of behaviour in all behaviours such as learning, performance, perception, accuracy, recall, forgetting, thinking, creativity and emotions. The interaction of trainers and nursing students plays a significant role in clinical education and achieving educational objectives. Aim: Considering the wide role of nursing trainers in students leaning clinical experience and their motivation, and based on qualitative studies done so far, the present research was performed to investigate the relationship between educational behaviours of clinical trainers and motivation toward science learning among nursing students. Methods: This cross sectional study was performed on 200 nursing students, third-eighth semester, at a nursing faculty from 1 January to 30 July 2019 at Zanjan university of medical sciences, Iran. The students were included though census. Confidence interval of 95% and a significance level of Pvalue less than 0.05 was considered significant. Results and Conclusion: The mean age of the students was 22 years. This study showed that the level of educational behaviours of clinical trainers had a direct correlation with the score of learning motivation subscale of students. It also had a direct significant correlation with the total score motivation toward science learning (p=0.01). The behaviours of clinical trainers and understanding of nursing students about the characteristics of trainers are important in creating motivation, facilitating learning, and improving nursing education. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: Shigella is the causative agent of shigellosis in the world. Antibiotic treatment is important in this bacterium, but recently Shigella species containing the aph, aadE, aacA-aphD genes have shown resistance to aminoglycosides and have hampered the treatment process. Therefore, the aim of this study is a molecular investigation of Shigella dysenteriae aminoglycoside resistance genes isolated from children and its expression under the influence of curcumin nanoparticles. Materials and Methods: In this study, 60 diarrhea samples collected from Tehran hospitals in 2022 were used. Shigella dysenteriae isolates were identified by biochemical and microbial tests. The presence of aadE, aacA-aphD, and aph genes was confirmed by the Multiplex-PCR method. Then, real-time PCR was used to investigate the expression of aadE gene in the presence of curcumin nanoparticles. Results: From the 60 diarrhea samples examined, 12 strains (40%) of Shigella dysenteriae were identified by biochemical tests. Ten isolates (83.3%) carried the aadE gene, six isolates carried the aacA_aphD gene, and one isolate carried the aph gene. The Sub MIC value of curcumin nanoparticles on aadE gene expression is 128 µg/mL, and the Fold Change for this gene is -1.03. Conclusion: Considering the presence of aadE gene in 83.3% of S. dysenteriae isolates, it is important to investigate the presence of this gene in providing a suitable treatment model for patients infected with this bacterium, as well as the expression of aadE gene as the most common one. The expression of the aminoglycoside resistance gene was reduced to a relative amount in the presence of curcumin nanoparticles. Therefore, curcumin nanoparticles can be a suitable alternative for the treatment of strains carrying aminoglycoside resistance genes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Policymakers use simulation-based models to improve system feedback and model the reality of the problems in the system. This study uses the system dynamics approach to provide a model for predicting hospital bed shortages and determine the optimal policy in Shiraz, Southern Iran. Methods: This study was designed based on Sterman's system dynamic modeling (SDM) process. Firstly, we determined the main variables affecting bed distribution using a mixed qualitative and quantitative study which includes scoping review, expert panel, Delphi, and DANP. Then, dynamic hypotheses were designed. Subsequently, we held several expert panels for designing the causal and stock-flow models, formulating and testing a simulation model, as well as developing various scenarios and policies. Results: Dynamic modeling process resulted in four scenarios. All of the scenarios predicted a shortage of national hospital beds over a 20-year time horizon. Then, four policies were developed based on the changes in the number of beds and capacity of home care services; finally, the optimal policy was determined. Conclusions: Due to the high cost of setting up hospital beds, developing and supporting cost-effective home care services, strengthening the insurance coverage of these services, and improving the quantity and quality of community care, considering the real needs of the community could be considered as an optimal option for the future of the city. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pistachio is an important economic crop in arid and semi-arid regions of Iran. A major problem leading to a reduction in crop quality and reduced marketability is extreme air temperature in summer, which causes sunburn of pistachio leaves and fruit. A solution proposed to deal with the negative effects of high temperatures and increase water consumption efficiency in pistachio orchards is use of light-reflecting compounds. This study investigated the effect of foliar application of gypsum, sulfur, and NAX-95 (calcium-based suspension coating) to trees in a pistachio orchard (150 ha) in central Iran. The effect of these foliar products is assessed at plot scale, using control plots sprayed with calcium sulfate, based on temperature and evapotranspiration changes analyzed through remote sensing. Landsat 8 sensor images and RGB images collected by UAVs (spatial resolution of 30 m and 20 cm, respectively), on the same dates, before and after foliar spray application, were merged using the PCA method and bilinear interpolation re-sampling. Land surface temperature (LST) was then estimated using the split-window algorithm, and daily evapotranspiration using the surface energy balance algorithm for land (SEBAL) algorithm. A land use map was prepared and used to isolate pistachio trees in the field and assess weed cover, whose effect was not accounted. The results showed that temperature remained constant in the control plot between the spraying dates, indicating no environmental changes. In the main plots, gypsum had the greatest effect in reducing the temperature of pistachio trees. The plots with foliar spraying with gypsum displayed a mean tree temperature (47–48 °C) decrease of 3.3 °C in comparison with the control plots (>49 °C), leading to an average decline in evapotranspiration of 0.18 mm/day. NAX-95 and sulfur reduced tree temperature by on average 1.3 °C and 0.6 °C, respectively. Thus, gypsum is the most suitable foliar-spraying compound to lower the temperature of pistachio trees, reduce the water requirement, and increase crop productivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Improving public health is the main goal of healthcare systems across the world. Healthcare policymakers often use comparisons between different healthcare systems to better position their country and use the outcome to develop novel strategies to improve their own public health. The present study aimed to compare the health status indicators in Iran with those of the Eastern Mediterranean (EM) countries using the multiple attribute decision-making (MADM) methods. Methods: A descriptive-analytical study was conducted in 2021 at Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran. Data on the ranking of health status indicators in EM countries were obtained from the annual publications of the World Health Organization, World Health Statistics (2016-2020). As part of the MADM mathematical models, the "criteria importance through intercriteria correlation" (CRITIC) model was used to assign weights to health status indicators. In addition, the "multi-criteria optimization and compromise solution" (VIKOR) model was used to rank the EM countries. Results: The results showed that Bahrain and Somalia ranked first and last on health status indicators, respectively. Iran was ranked fifth among the EM countries. However, while Iran has a better status on all indicators than the mean value of all EM countries, there is a significant gap between the health status in Iran compared to the top-ranked countries. Conclusion: Health care strategies adopted by top-ranked countries, such as Bahrain and Qatar, can be used by Iran and other EM countries as a model to improve their healthcare system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In the ever-changing healthcare environment, policymakers and managers need a comprehensive evaluation system to accurately identify and prioritize factors affecting hospital performance. The present study aimed to identify and rank critical factors affecting hospital performance using the best-worst method (BWM). Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted during 2016- 2019 to identify and prioritize factors affecting the performance of Iranian public hospitals using the BWM. Initially, the content validity ratio (CVR) was used to screen the identified factors. Then, using a linear programming formula, a pairwise comparison between the best/worst criterion with all other identified criteria was performed. Results: The most important internal factor was efficiency, and its associated indicators were mainly related to financial factors. Among all external factors, the most prominent were economic, legal, and political factors, which were negatively affected by budgeting policies and the payment system. A megatrend was also identified in the form of a national health insurance system as well as a shift from employer-based to government-subsidized insurance coverage. Conclusion: External factors (economic and political) had a greater impact on the performance of public hospitals than internal factors (efficiency and effectiveness). A preprint of this study was published at https://www.researchsquare.com/article/rs-453223/v1 with doi: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-453223/v1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Psychological Distress (PD) is one of the most common mental disorders during pregnancy and involves stress, anxiety, and depression. According to the literature, High-Risk Pregnancy' (HRP) is a major physiological risk factor associated with PD during pregnancy. The main purpose of this study was to explore the perception and experience of women with HRP who, based on standard questionnaires, had moderate-to-severe stress and anxiety scores. Materials and Methods: This qualitative study was conducted using conventional content analysis from December 2020 to June 2021. To this aim, 16 women with HRP were purposefully selected from Imam Khomeini Hospital in Ahvaz, Iran, with maximum diversity. In-depth, semi-structured, individual interviews were conducted to collect the data. The MAXQDA software was used for data analysis. Results: Data analysis led to the extraction of two main categories and nine subcategories. "Disrupted peace" and "inefficient adaptation to the situation" were the two extracted categories. The former included the five subcategories of concerns about pregnancy complications, concerns about the parenting process, concerns about the couple's relationship, fear of Covid-19, and occupation-related stress. The latter included the three subcategories of unpleasant feelings, current pregnancy experiences, and previous pregnancy experiences. Conclusions: This study highlighted a wide range of psychosocial factors involved in the PD of women with HRP. These findings can be used to design appropriate prevention strategies to manage the mental health problems of these women in order to turn their pregnancy into a pleasurable experience. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Anatomy is a symbolic, essential core topic and one of the fundamental pillars of medical and paramedical knowledge. Nevertheless, few exploratory data analyses have focused on how students approach learning anatomy. This study examined how students perceive their learning experience during anatomy lessons and how to make a model which promotes their meaningful learning and professional identity. Methods: Using purposive sampling with maximum variation, we conducted a qualitative content analysis at the Shiraz University of Medical Sciences in Iran (2020 to 2021). Twenty-four medical students and twelve faculty members of Iran's medical science universities were enrolled in the study. The data were collected through semi-structured interviews and analyzed according to the theme. Results: A conceptual model emerged from the data analysis with the main theme called the blacksmith approach, which included Three sub-themes: (1) making a new forge (adequate preparation and mindful beginning), (2) heating the students' hearts (considering supporting systems that learners need) and (3) using Sledgehammer's approach (teaching anatomy by using more active methods and engaging all neuroanatomical regions) and (Using fun for enjoyable learning). All the concepts were related to each other. Conclusion: Medical students experience a challenging fundamental evolution into professional doctors. Educational systems focus primarily on teaching and learning, while students' transition can be facilitated by a three-step model called the Blacksmith Approach. It best serves as an educational framework for any pivotal, preclinical course capable of helping students acquire new roles and tackle challenges. Further research should be conducted to confirm how hard work leads to satisfying results with the opportunity to create enjoyable learning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vertebral body compression fractures are one of the most common causes of disability and morbidity, especially among the elderly population. The present study was performed in order to evaluate the effect of percutaneous balloon kyphoplasty (BKP) on patients' pain and quality of life (QOL) in Iran. The study was conducted on a consecutive series of 54 patients with symptomatic vertebral compression fractures who failed conservative management between 2014 and 2017. A quasi-experimental design was employed in which the pain severity, quality of life, and kyphotic angle were measured before and 3 and 12 months after the PBK procedure. Pain and quality of life outcomes were determined using a Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) for Pain and the 12-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-12) for QOL. Excellent improvement in VAS was documented at 3 and 12 months after the BKP procedure (p = 0.001). Improvement at 3 months was maintained through the 12 months follow-up period. A statistically significant improvement in QOL was documented at 3 months after BKP that continued to improve through 12 months follow-up. The mean kyphotic angle before PBK was 19.4 ± 5.3 degrees which after 3 months improved to 12.8 ± 3.1 degrees; this reduction was significant (p < 0.001). No new fractures occurred during the follow-up period. Balloon kyphoplasty was determined to be a safe and successful method for treating symptomatic vertebral compression fractures. It leads to significant pain relief, an improvement in self-reported QOL measures, and correction in kyphotic deformity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Sleep disorders are associated with many health problems including anxiety, depression and coronary artery disease (CAD). This study investigated the prevalence, predictors and health impacts of insomnia and hypersomnia in southeastern Iran as well as the five-year incidence rate (IR) of these sleep disorders. Method: The present study was a cross-sectional, single-stage, cluster sampling study examining nine CAD risk factors (KERCADR study phase two), including sleep disorders, carried out in Kerman on 9997 participants, 15 to 80 years old. Medical examination along with demographic, sleep status, Physical activity level (GPAQ), anxiety and depression status (Beck Inventories) were assessed and fasting blood sample was taken for blood glucose and lipids analysis. STATA v15 software was used for data analysis using survey data analysis package and a univariable survey logistic regression model. Results: From 9997 participants, 59.4% were female. 45.3% of the participants were suffering from insomnia and hypersomnia, which was 15% more than the phase 1 prevalence (P < 0.001). Participants with insomnia had higher chance of being anxious, but participants with hypersomnia had higher chance of being depressed, be a cigarette smoker, opium user, and sedentary (P < 0.001). In regards to marital status, prevalence of hypersomnia was as follows in ascending order of prevalence: singles > married > widowed > divorced. While the IR of insomnia was higher in females, males had higher IR of hypersomnia. In addition, the IR of both sleep disorders was higher in participants with Low Physical Activity (LPA). Conclusion: The results showed high current prevalence and increasing trends of sleep disorders in the past five years. If left unaddressed, burden of CVDs in the community will demonstrate a significant increase in the future as a result of sleep disorders and other associated risk factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Previous studies mentioned four organizational structures for hospitals, which are budgetary, autonomous, corporate, and private. Nevertheless, healthcare decision-makers are still required to select the most organizational structure specific to their circumstances. The present study aims to provide a framework to prioritize and select the most suitable organizational structure using multicriteria decision-making (MCDM) methods in Iranian hospitals. Methods: First, a multicriteria decision-making model consisted of the respective criteria, and alternatives were developed. The pertinent criteria were identified through a systematic literature review. The coefficient weights of the identified criteria were then calculated using FUCOM-F. Finally, organizational structures were prioritized in accordance with the identified criteria using FMARCOS. Results: The findings reveal that income is the most significant criterion in selecting organizational structures for hospitals whereas the number of outpatient visits is the least important. Also, the private structure is the most appropriate, and budgetary style is the least suitable organizational structure for Iranian hospitals. Conclusion: Providing a framework in order to select the most appropriate organizational structure could help managers and policymakers of the healthcare sector in Iran and other countries, mainly similar developing countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study deals with a new approach to tackle the challenges encountered in the filters-based reactive power calculation techniques utilized in the control system of static VAr compensators. In this approach, step and time-varying responses are improved by a combination of differential and filter-based methods. Then, optimum values of the main parameters of the low-pass and band-stop filters are determined considering three criteria: accuracy, speed, and capability for following the time-varying loads. To assess the performance of the proposed method, a new objective function is introduced, calculated for two sets of signals, captured from a real field in Mobarakeh Steel Company in Isfahan/Iran. Then, the proposed and the other reactive power calculation methods are assessed in practice and simulation. Also, the algorithm is implemented using a TMDSCNCD28335 as the processor to assess the real-time feasibility of the method. To do so, the reactive power variation of an electrical arc furnace is emulated in a prototype test bench and the algorithm is run in real-time by the processor during the system operation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aims at investigating the effect of health information technology on time and cost saving in the perspective of users of teaching hospitals in in remote areas of Iran. This is an applied study with a descriptive-analytical and cross-sectional method conducted on users of hospitals in remote areas of Iran using stratified random sampling. Data collection instrument was a selfmade questionnaire, the face validity and reliability of which were confirmed by Cronbach’s alpha 0.94. Data were collected in person and analyzed by SPSS software V. 21 and descriptive and analytical statistics. Based on the Chi-square test results, there was a significant relationship between the effects of health information technology on time saving as well as cost saving. The results of Kruskal-Wallis test showed no significant relationship between education level, age and work experience and time and cost saving as well. User satisfaction is one of the most important aspects of the success of information systems, therefore, it is recommended that senior managers pay attention to the individual aspects of the employees working in the organization, provide them with necessary training before implementing the information systems, and involve them in the decisions in using such technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seawater desalination by sub-atmospheric vapor pipeline transfer (known as SAVP) is one of the innovative seawater desalination methods that could be used in lands and industries. SAVP systems works based on the temperature difference between a hot source and a cold environment; this method can provide users with a variety of advantages in industrial and field applications. The temperature of the hot and cold sources, as boundary conditions, can be considered as a function of time in natural and industrial environments; therefore, it affects the process of convection and diffusion significantly. In such a case, new and interesting challenges arise; such as reviewing and simplifying the basic convection-diffusion equation through obtaining the temperature profile in the pipeline by using advanced engineering mathematics. Two mathematical approaches can be developed to solve the temperature differential equation; one is through Eigen functions and the other one uses Green's equation based on the length of the pipeline for SAVP. In this study, vapor's temperature will be formulated as a function of time and length in accordance with the given assumptions and information. Mathematical simulations were performed for a field-scale spanning between Bandar Abbas and Geno (two places on the south coast of Iran) biosphere reserve. Also, an industrial scale in a vapor transfer device with a heat source capacity of about 200 L was assembled. The results showed an acceptable range of accuracy in the proposed methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted to investigate the response of maize hybrids to drought stress and to select the most drought-tolerant cultivar compared to other hybrids. The experiment was performed on six maize hybrids in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications under regular irrigation and limited irrigation in the vegetative and reproductive stages in Iran. Drought tolerance indices (TOL, MP, GMP, STI, SSI, and HAR) for the grain yield of genotypes were calculated, and principal component analysis was based on them. The results obtained from estimating the indices showed that the SC647 and KSC704 hybrids, while having good performance in both conditions, also have drought tolerance. Examining the correlation between drought tolerance indices and yield in both conditions, among the indices used to detect drought tolerance, STI, MP, and GMP indices can be considered suitable for selecting high-yielding hybrids in these conditions. The principal components analysis on the stress-tolerance index showed that MP and GMP indices could be used as the best indices with high coefficients to select stress-tolerance hybrids. SC647 and KSC704 hybrids were identified and selected as hybrids with high tolerance to moisture stress. The results of drought tolerance indices in the emergence stage of the crest showed that the KSC260 hybrid has the lowest level of stress sensitivity. SC647 hybrids showed the lowest susceptibility to drought stress in the ear emergence stage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Numerous remote sensing indices have been introduced to investigate the drought. Hence, the purpose of this study was to develop a Comprehensive Remote Sensing Drought Index (CRSDI) using the strengths of the previous Remote Sensing Drought Indices (RSDIs). Eleven mostly used RSDIs were used to develop CRSDI. Aras and Karkheh basins were studied as representative of Western Iran. Vegetation indices and surface temperature were derived from the products of the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS). Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE (and Global Land Data Assimilation System (GLDAS) data were used to extract groundwater information. The performances of RSDIs were evaluated using the Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) acquired from 13 synoptic stations. The correlation coefficients between CRSDI against six-month SPI and nine-month SPI were obtained as 0.66 and 0.56, respectively. Then, the results proved the proper efficiency of the CRSDI to investigate the drought in the study area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Given the importance and position of women in the family, it seems that measures should be taken for their mental health. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the effectiveness of dialectical behavior therapy on depressive symptoms, irrational beliefs and mental psychological well-being of women. Method: This quasi-experimental study was a pre-test, post-test and follow-up after three months. The statistical population included women who referred to Mehregan Counseling Center in Mashhad who had referred in 2019. Among them, 30 women with depressive symptoms were randomly selected and randomly divided into an experimental group and a control group awaiting treatment. The intervention group was performed under eight group sessions for 90 minutes once a week. To collect data, the Jones Irrational Beliefs Questionnaire, Beck Depression Inventory, and Reef Psychological Well-Being Scale were used. Repeated measures analysis of variance was utilized to analyze data. Results: The results of repeated measures analysis of variance showed that dialectical behavior therapy is effective in reducing depressive symptoms and irrational beliefs as well as increasing women's psychological well-being (p<0.05). Conclusion: Therefore, dialectical behavior therapy can be effective in reducing depression, irrational beliefs and increasing women's psychological well-being. It is suggested that by using these variables by medical centers, other relevant organs and organizations, an effective step can be taken to improve the mental health status of women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The only way to limit the prevalence of COVID-19 is to adhere strictly to health protocol. In this regard, WHO has provided the information needed to prevent and deal with this disease on its website. To investigate the Impact of Internet Health Information on Adherence to COVID-19 Protocols, in Iran. Material and Methods: This is a cross-sectional survey and structural equation modeling which is done by students of at the Kerman University of Medical Science, Iran. The data collection tool was a questionnaire. SPSS 22.0, and SmartPLS 3software were used to analyze the data. Results: The present study investigated the impact of health information on the WHO website on adherence to COVID-19 protocols among the students of the Kerman University of Medical Sciences. The bootstrapping results indicate relationships between health information seeking constructs and information quality, satisfaction, and reputation. Regarding the other six hypotheses in the present study, it is predicted that they will be rejected in a larger sample. Conclusion: Online information is now available more easily, quickly, and at a lower cost compared to other sources, it should be constantly monitored and constantly improved in quality. Its usefulness, ease of use, accuracy, recency, and simplicity should be constantly investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper introduces an improved convolutional neural network based on the conventional U-Net for simulating built-up land expansion. The proposed method hires a pixel-wise semantic segmentation approach considering the spatial drivers affecting urbanization as data cubes. Independent variables including altitude, slope, and distance from barren, crop, greenery, roads, and urban areas for 1998, 2008, and 2018 were considered as covariates for the simulation of built-up land expansion in Tehran and Karaj regions in Iran. The proposed method was compared with the random forest (RF) algorithm as the baseline model. Evaluation using the area under the total operating characteristic indicated the superiority of our modified U-Net (0.87) over the RF (0.82) algorithm. Furthermore, evaluation using the percent correct metric indicated that our proposed model is capable of learning neighborhood effects effectively leading to simulate built-up land expansion accurately, independent from applying a cellular automata (CA) model. Therefore, the modified U-Net independent from the CA which can consider the neighborhood effects is recommended for the simulation of built-up land expansion precisely. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Diabetes is one of the most common and expensive endocrine diseases in the world. The age of onset in Iran is 10-15 years younger than the average age of onset in developed countries. Some measures have been adopted to identify the main risk factors and the national response to diabetes in numerous countries to prevent and control this disease. This study aimed to compare the main risk factors and national response to diabetes in selected countries. Materials and Methods: This comparative review study evaluated six countries, including Iran, India, China, Germany, Canada, and Somalia. Required information (i.e., demographic information, statistical information, main risk factors, and dimensions of the national response to diabetes) was obtained from official and credible databases and sites. Results: Based on the find, three factors, including obesity, overweight, and physical inactivity were identified as the main risk factors for diabetes in the selected countries. It was revealed that these countries have partially or fully implemented the national response to diabetes. Conclusion: The multifaceted nature of diabetes requires the provision of multi-dimensional solutions to reduce the burden of the disease via controlling the main risk factors. Lifestyle modification should not only be limited to education and promotion of nutrition and physical activity but also include modifications in methods, attitudes, and cultural, social, and economic values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: Nurses are professionally and ethically obliged to provide spiritual care as part of comprehensive care for patients. The present study was conducted to determine the educational needs of nurses to provide spiritual care. Methods: This study was performed descriptively using the Delphi technique from September 2020 to April 2021 at Qom University of Medical Sciences. In the first stage, 10 specialists were selected by purposive sampling method and answered an open-ended question to determine the educational needs of spiritual care. After collecting opinions in three rounds, the needs with an agreement coefficient of more than 51% were prepared in the form of a 15-item questionnaire and the importance of the items was determined by 144 nurses. Needs with scores of 3 or higher were finalized and general and behavioral goals were set for them. Results: In the first, second, and third rounds, 47, 25, and 15 educational needs were determined, respectively, and five general objectives, including familiarity with the holistic approach to human beings and dimensions of health, familiarity with the concepts of spiritual care, familiarity with how obtaining a spiritual history, familiarity with the types of diagnoses and spiritual interventions, and familiarity with the principles of communication in spiritual care were determined. Conclusion: The results of the study can be used for developing a spiritual curriculum and a practical guide to providing spiritual care for nurses and other groups of the health team. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Growing demand for water, as a consequence of population growth, farmland irrigation, and industrial expansion, results in groundwater resources exploitation. This, in combination with droughts induced by climate change, has caused a sharp drop in groundwater levels throughout arid and semiarid countries. In Iran, all these factors are resulting in alarming water scarcity. Appropriate management and control of existing water resources can overcome water shortages, with healthy and sustainable management of groundwater as one of the most efficient tools. Artificial recharge of aquifers can be used to replenish water supplies and restore the water resources in Iran and other semiarid and arid countries, but selection of the right location for runoff collection is essential to achieve success. Precipitation, slope, geology, lineament density, drainage density, aquifer water quality, groundwater level, vegetation, and land use were selected in this study as key factors in locating suitable sites for artificial recharge. The weight of each, in terms of importance and impact on aquifer recharge, was determined using remote sensing techniques to prepare layers and analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and Boolean logic to identify the optimal weight for each factor. Geographic information system (GIS) was used for modeling, applying the weight of each criterion, and producing a final map. The results showed better performance of AHP than Boolean logic. For artificial recharge, 9.9% of the total study area (Mahdishahr in northern Iran) was found to be in a very good position and 22.6% in a good position. On filtering the privacy layer of fountains and aqueducts, the very good and good area declined to 8.4% and 14.7% of the total area, respectively, and mainly comprised alluvial valleys and coarse alluvial sediments with low slope and drainage density. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The growing trend of overweight and obesity in many developed and developing countries in recent years has made obesity one of the most significant health problems in the world. The treatment of overweight and obese people is challenging, as patients have difficulty adhering to a weight-loss diet. Thus, the present study aimed to identify the reasons for the dropout of weight-loss diets. Methods: This qualitative study using content analysis was conducted in a comprehensive health center in Shiraz, southern Iran, between April and October 2020. The study was performed on 27 participants with a history of obesity and diet dropout selected via purposive and theoretical sampling. The data were gathered through semi-structured interviews and were thematically analyzed. Results: The participants included 25 females (92.6%) and two males (7.4%) with a mean age of 33.4 ± 8.4 years. Data analysis resulted in the emergence of three themes and 14 sub-themes. The first theme was personal reasons for diet dropout, which included six sub-themes; i.e., misunderstanding of diet, not having enough motivation, stress and hormonal disorder, having the feel of "being harmful to health", lack of mental and psychological preparation, and personal taste. The second theme was familial and social reasons for diet dropout, including two sub-themes, i.e., social and familial problems. Finally, the third theme was the reasons related to diet characteristics, including six sub-themes: ineffectiveness of diet, expensiveness of diet food and dietary supplements, family problems, unavailability of food, unscientific and unconventional diets feeling bad about the diet, and unpalatable diet food. All the concepts were related to each other and resulted in a pattern revealing the experiences of overweight people and who had dropped out of weight-loss diets. Conclusion: The reasons for diet dropout were divided into three levels: personal reasons, familial and social reasons, and diet characteristics. Overall, clinicians should pay attention to the complexity of diets to increase the success rate of weight management. Based on the current study findings, a guideline is recommended to guide patients who dropout of weight-loss diets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: This study aimed at performing a path analysis to assess the parameters of the health belief model concerning BSE. Methods: The present descriptive cross-sectional study at a health care center, affiliated with Islamic Azad University Tehran, Faculty of Medicine in the northwest of Tehran, Iran was conducted from May to June 2018. The champion's HBM scale, breast cancer knowledge test was assessed in all participants. The SPSS-22 and Lisrel-8.8 software, using statistical path analysis, were used for analyzing the data. Results: Totally, 225 women took part in this study. The mean of the BSE performance was 0.53 ± 0.52. The score of BCKT had a significant difference between women, who performed and did not perform BSE (P = 0.001). The final model was a good fit for the data collection. As a result, self-effectiveness improved HBM parameters. Also, perceived barriers, knowledge, and educational level had an association with BSE. Conclusions: According to the results of this study, self-care behaviors could be increased by eliminating perceived barriers and increasing the level of education and as a result of women's knowledge. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]