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The structure of the fixed and random parts of the genetic evaluation model plays a significant role in fitting data and the estimation of genetic parameters for economic traits in livestock. The present study was conducted to investigate the effect of different fixed and random effects combinations in an animal model framework on the general properties of the model and estimates of the genetic parameters for milk production traits. Traits studied were 305-day milk production (305-MY, 15920 records), fat percentage (FP, 27954 records), protein percentage (PP, 26183 records), average daily milk production (ADM, 30954 records) and milk somatic cell score (SCS, 25408 records) in Isfahan Holstein cows. In general, 54 scenarios were studied which differed in fixed and random parts of the model. Variance components were estimated using the animal model fitting restricted maximum likelihood (REML) procedure. The best model for each trait was selected based on the Bayesian Information Criterion (BIC). Results showed that for all traits studied, models in which the effect of contemporary groups Herd-Year-Season (HYS) or Herd-Year-Month (HYM) were fitted as the random or fixed effect together with age at the first calving and inbreeding as a classified fixed effect or covariate lead to a significantly better data fit instead of fitting herd, year, season and month of calving separately. For each trait, a wide range of heritability was obtained by fitting 54 models. Based on the best models, the estimates of heritability for 305-MY, ADM, FP, PP and SCS were 0.33, 0.28, 0.21, 0.16 and 0.61, respectively. It was concluded that a single model should not be used for analyzing all milk production traits and that for each trait a series of models which differ in random and fixed parts should be tested to find the most suitable model which describes the data best. Fitting the effects of herd and year, season and month of calving as contemporary groups HYS or HYM was recommended for genetic evaluation of milk production traits as resulted in better data fit. Depending on the trait, inbreeding and age at first calving can be fitted as a classified fixed effect or as a covariate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Eye health is essential for quality-of-life. The present study aimed to design an eye care behaviors assessment instrument for the student community and evaluate its psychometric properties. Methods: The present mixed-method cross-sectional study was conducted in two sections using Creswell and Plano Clark methods for instrument development. The study was conducted in Isfahan, Iran, in 2021. The first section (textual analysis and qualitative research) explained and developed the instrument's fundamental items. This section included in-depth, semistructured interviews with 21 students and eight experts. The second section measured the psychometric properties of the instrument. Twenty students assessed the instrument's qualitative and quantitative face validity in this section. The instrument's content validity ratio (CVR) and content validity index (CVI) were evaluated. In addition, exploratory factor analysis (performed by 251 students) was used to establish construct validity. Internal and test-retest reliability was determined using Cronbach's alpha and intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC), respectively. Results: During face and content validity assessment, a 37-item questionnaire was finalized. Exploratory factor analysis led to the identification of three factors, including "examinations and glasses-related behaviors," "symptom-related behaviors," and "screen-related behaviors." The three extracted factors accounted for 37.9% of the variance. Cronbach's alpha was equal to 0.874 when evaluating internal consistency, and the ICC value for the total score of the questionnaire was 0.885 (0.810-0.941), indicating excellent test-retest reliability. Conclusions: These results demonstrate the questionnaire's validity and reliability. This instrument assesses the prevalence of university students' most significant eye health risk behaviors. Consequently, it helps prevent eye problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: Derrida's Deconstruction has key elements in the schema that affect current realms of environmental graphics. The challenges in current urban life require that graphic science gets involved, at some level, in the architecture and the environment. Therefore, the purpose of the current study was to examine the effects of using key elements of environmental graphics based on Derrida's Deconstruction in the schemata of tourists in Isfahan. Methods: library archives and field surveys were employed for data collection in this study. As such, the visual, emotional evidence and documents in the library archives were used to evaluate the criteria involved. Considering the nature of the study, the statistical population consisted of two groups of citizens of Isfahan. The first group includes 18 experts, and the second includes 213 domestic tourists in Isfahan in 2019. Findings: The results of the study indicated that there is a strong and significant relationship between the variables of balance, continuity in the environment, creating unity in the environment, diversity in the environment, texture and light. Furthermore, the findings revealed that the variable of light is extremely strong in correlation, the variable of emphasis in the environment has a very weak correlation, and the variable of proportionality is negatively correlated. Also, based on the beta coefficient obtained from regression, the greatest impact pertained to the components of light, diversity, texture, balance, continuity, unity in the environment, proportionality and emphasis. Conclusion: This study showed a significant relationship between the schemata of tourists and context, diversity, light, unity in the environment, proportionality, continuity, balance and emphasis, among which the variable of light was determined to have the greatest effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) has social and psychological effects on different groups, especially adolescents and young girls in 98 countries of the world, in addition to the economic burden. Therefore, it is necessary to apply effective methods for CL prevention. In this study, educational messages were designed based on Extended Parallel Process Model in both forms of animation and game, whose effect on the cutaneous leishmaniasis prevention behaviors was evaluated in adolescent female students. Methods: This experimental study was carried out from January to September 2021 on 275 adolescent female students in Isfahan province, Iran. Cluster sampling method was used, and then the students were randomly divided into three groups, namely animation education, game education, and control groups. The educational intervention was performed with two new media in the form of animation and games. The data collected before and two months after the education through a valid and reliable researcher-made questionnaire were analyzed in SPSS24 software using statistical tests of ANOVA, Chi-square, paired t and analysis of covariance (ANCOVA). Results: The mean age of the participants was 14.07 ± 0.94. The mean scores of behavior in the animation group (60.60 ± 23.00), the game group (61.70 ± 22.05), and the control group (66.13 ± 24.62) were not significantly different prior to the education. However, after the education, there was a significant difference between the animation (80.66 ± 17.62) and game groups (82.58 ± 19.07) and the control group (69.79 ± 23.29) (P < 0.001). The mean scores of model constructs following the intervention (susceptibility, severity, response efficacy, and perceived self-efficacy) significantly increased in the animation and game groups compared to that in the control group (P < 0.05). Conclusion: The results showed that if educational programs contain a combination of threat and efficiency messages, CL-preventive behaviors in adolescents increase. Providing similar educational content with both game and animation methods indicated that both methods had an almost same effect. Although animation production is more costly, it has the advantage of being used in periods and for other adolescents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cutaneous Leishmaniasis (CL) is an important public health issue in at least 83 countries, including Iran. Individuals' behavior modification is believed to be one of the best ways for CL prevention. However, no comprehensive questionnaires have been psychoanalyzed for identification of CL prevention behaviors and its numerous associated factors, as well as the impact of educational messages. Thus, the present study was conducted to develop and psychometrically assess CL prevention behaviors questionnaire in female students. Methods: The present study was performed from October 2020 to May 2021 by developing a preliminary questionnaire based on integration of Cultural Model and Extended Parallel Process Model. The questionnaire was completed online by 460 adolescent female students living in endemic areas of Isfahan, Iran. Exploratory factor analysis was performed using SPSS 24 to ensure the construct validity. Internal reliability was assessed via Cronbach's alpha and external reliability was determined using the test-retest method based on the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) index. Results: The first version of the questionnaire contains 110 items, out of which 82 remained according to content validity ratio (CVR) and content validity index (CVI) criteria. Afterwards, 11 items were removed due to low factor load in the construct validity process using the factor analysis technique. Ultimately, a 71-items questionnaire was developed and 12 factors were extracted from it. According to Cronbach's alpha index, the internal reliability for the questionnaire was 0.877 and the ICC index calculated the external reliability as 0.833. Conclusions: Integration of a Cultural Model with individual model was used for the first time to measure the factors related to CL prevention behaviors in this questionnaire; owing to the strength of the factor structure and appropriate psychometric properties, the questionnaire is applicable in the evaluation process of educational interventions concerning CL prevention, especially in female students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Rosa damascena is an aromatic rose species, which is cultivated for its essential oil, and is widely used in perfume, cosmetic, pharmaceutical, and food industries in the world. This experiment was conducted to evaluate essential oil and morphological variations of 26 Damask rose genotypes. For this purpose, the effect of harvest time, i.e., early morning or evening, and sampling type, i.e., fresh or dried petals, on oil content was evaluated. In addition, the composition of essential oil of the genotypes was determined using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS). Results: Results showed that early morning was the preferable time for flower collection based on oil content. Furthermore, the oil yield of fresh petals was higher than that of the dried petals. Twenty-five volatile compounds were found in the extracted oils. β-Damascenone, a key marker for the quality of rose oil, was found in 22 genotypes and was more than 1.5% concentration in G3, G6, and G11 genotypes. The highest components of the oil of Damask rose genotypes were nonadecane (42.51%), β-citronellol (40.82%), n-heneicosane (34.69%), geraniol (27.76%), and n-tricosane (14.2%). A wide variation in flower characteristics, such as petal color (from white to nearly red) and petal numbers from about 25 to 95, were also recorded. The G2, G5, and G15 genotypes, originated from Isfahan, Fars, and Kerman, respectively, were selected based on petal number, flower weight, and essential oil content in fresh and dried petals. Conclusions: Results suggest that morphological and biochemical diversity of Damask rose genotypes can be used effectively to characterize genetic diversity between different genotypes and to select special traits in breeding programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Social support is one of the predictors of nutrition behaviors. Therefore, measuring and improving the level of support is necessary to improve students' nutritional status. The purpose of this study was to design instruments and evaluate their psychometric properties for the evaluation of social support for breakfast and snack consumption. Methods: This methodological study was carried out from 2016 to 2018. The qualitative phase was performed in 3 Iranian cities: Isfahan, Khorramabad and Tehran. The quantitative phase was completed in Isfahan only. Initially, 2 questionnaires were developed using the results of the qualitative research. Subsequently, we assessed the face, content, and construct validity of both instruments. Results: The maternal support questionnaire consisted of 3 dimensions, including mother-sponsored support, family life pattern, and school-based collaboration, which explained 55.35% of the instrument's variance. The school support questionnaire comprised 2 dimensions including informational support and instrumental support, which explained 54.52% of the variance in the results. Conclusions: These instruments can be used to measure and improve social support by designing, implementing, and evaluating community-based campaigns and interventions to improve breakfast consumption and snacking behaviors among children and youth at home and in school. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Active aging is a comprehensive and subjective concept that depends on an individuals' personal experiences. The theory of gerotranscendence focuses on seniors and the aging process. This process would be of great value in dealing with the challenges that come in that period of life. The authors conducted this study to explore the lived experience of gerotranscendence and active aging among seniors. Following a directed content analysis procedure, we conduct semi-structured individual interviews with 39 community-dwelling seniors from the age of 60 including both genders living in Isfahan selected by purposeful sampling. Data collection and analysis were concurrent. The reliability of data was fulfilled by following Lincoln and Guba criteria. We stopped data collection when no new concept was added and data saturation was achieved. Based on the experience of elders, we identified three categories: 1) Self-transcendence, 2) Social transcendence, and 3) Cosmic level. These portrayed gerotranscendence as a continuous process confronting age-related change. The finding suggests that gerotranscendence was introduced as a dynamic process that occurred simultaneously with active aging accompanying the journey of life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Skipping breakfast and replacing it with non-nutritious snacks are progressively increasing among adolescents. This study aimed to develop an educational intervention based on the Social Marketing Model and evaluate its effects on healthy breakfast and snack consumption among female adolescent students.Methods: This mixed-methods study was conducted in 2016-2019 in two phases. In the first phase, a qualitative study was conducted through directed content analysis in guidance schools in Khorramabad, Isfahan, and Tehran, Iran, to explore factors affecting breakfast consumption. The results of this phase were set in the benchmarks of the Social Marketing Model. In the second phase, a randomized controlled trial was conducted based on the benchmarks of the Social Marketing Model on 94 students randomly recruited from guidance schools in Khorramabad, Iran.Results: The findings of the qualitative phase were categorized into the benchmarks of the Social Marketing Model, namely the social marketing mix, the intended behavior, internal and external competing factors for behavior modification, theoretical concepts related to the behavior, and the role of supporters. In the quantitative phase, the univariate analysis showed significant between-group differences concerning the product, price, promotion, and behavior (p < 0.05).Conclusion: Healthy breakfast and snack consumption can be promoted through making acceptable the tastes, costs, preparations, and consumption places of breakfast and snack.Trial Registration: The trial was registered in the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (code: IRCT20170201032347N1 ). The trial was registered in 11/07/2018 and is accessible on the Iranian Clinical Trial Registration website. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of an endemic plant as rootstock has many merits but its application for cucurbits production has not been extensively investigated. The present study determined the growth responses of grafted cucumber using two endemic rootstocks from Cucurbita pepo L. fertilized with different ratios of nitrate (NO3-): ammonium (NH4+) fertilizer. A greenhouse study was carried out using cucumber (C. sativus 'Dominos') grafted on two accessions of Cucurbita pepo L. collected from Babol and Isfahan with the control being ungrafted C. sativus 'Dominos'. Different ratios of NO3-/NH4+ as follows: 100:0 (NO3- alone), 25/75, 50/50, 75/25 and 0/100 (NH4+ alone) were applied. It was found that different rootstock has the same physiology but different growth attributes. The growth of the ungrafted cucumber was lower than the grafted ones, and Babol showed better or equal growth compared to the Isfahan rootstock. The NO3-/NH4+ effect on growth of the cucumber shoot and root fresh and dry weights, root and shoot lengths, nodes, and number of leaves were increased in the 75/25 ratio compared to the other treatments. Grafting on the Isfahan and Babol showed the same effect of N metabolism i.e., grafting increased nitrate reductase activity and NO3- concentration in the 75/25 and the 100/0. Protein content and amino acids content of leaves increased in the grafted cucumber treated with 50/50 NO3-/NH4+. The same response of photosynthesis parameters was observed in the different rootstocks. In conclusion, the result suggested that the grafted 'Dominos' on Babol endemic rootstock at 50/50 NO3-/NH4+ ratio gave the high growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The adherence of diabetic patients to their medication regimen is associated with many psychosocial factors that are still unknown. Therefore, the present study aims to identify the psychosocial barriers to medication adherence of patients with type2 diabetes (T2D). Methodology: This descriptive qualitative study was done in Isfahan, Iran by conducting in-depth unstructured interviews with 23 purposively selected patients with T2D and 10 healthcare providers (HCPs). The participants were interviewed face-to-face between November 2017 and June 2018 at the patient's home, a Health Care Center, or at the diabetes clinic. Data analysis was performed using MAXQDA-10 software and the conventional content analysis. Results: The analysis of the data led to six categories of perceived psychosocial barriers: 1) fear, concern and distress, 2) exhaustion and burnout, 3) the children's issues being the priority, 4) poor financial support, 5) communication challenges, and 6) poor work conditions. Conclusions: This study identified some of the psychosocial barriers to medication adherence of patients with T2D, which will be of great help to researchers and HCPs in designing and implementing effective interventions to overcome these barriers and change patient self-care behaviors and increase their medication adherence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

On the basis of recently collected specimens in various regions of Iran, new data on jumping spiders (Salticidae) of this country are provided. One species, Salticus lucasi sp. nov. (), Isfahan Province, central Iran) is described as new to science, and three species (Chalcoscirtus platnicki Marusik, 1995, Mogrus larisae Logunov, 1995 and Phlegra yaelae Prószyński, 1998) are recorded in Iran for the first time. A further 21 species represent new provincial records. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article present a study for examining city branding by evaluating and analyzing cultural capabilities of Isfahan, Iran. Topics include impact of globalization in cities resulting in intensification in competition among cities for investment, business and tourists; beginning of marketing for cities in 19th century; and recognition in the process of urban planning strategy.

Background: Tobacco smoke is the leading cause of preventable death world-wide. Unfortunately, the risk is not limited to smokers. It is dangerous for non-smokers particularly women, kids and elderly. Despite the remarkable reduction of tobacco exposure in public places, it is still continuing at homes as the most common places. Interventions to create a smoke-free home are needed, but little is known about them. The aim of this study is to explain the field randomized controlled trial that is designed to examine the role of non-smoker women to create a smoke-free home through establishing complete agreement on ban smoking at home. Methods: In this field randomized controlled trial, the effectiveness of women's education will be evaluated in primary health-care centers. A total of 136 non-smoker women who exposed to second-hand smoke by their husbands at home will be included (68 intervention/non-intervention group). The intervention arm will receive an educational package including a consultation visit individually, a peer group session, a booklet, a "no smoking" sign. The primary outcome is the frequency of smoke-free home (no exposure to second-hand smoke at home). Mediator outcomes include a complete agreement to ban smoking at home, second-hand smoke exposure rate and self-assertiveness rate. All measurements will be conducted on baseline, 1 and 3 months after intervention. Conclusions: Outcomes will present the effects of implementing multi-component women's education intervention program to ban smoking at home. If the effectiveness of the trial is confirmed, it will be suggested to merge this package to routine care in primary health-care centers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Purpose of this research was an investigation into the role of privatization on productivity according to the views of Isfahan clubs managers. This research was descriptive one and was done by measurable methods. The statistical societies of this research were composed all the managers (manager, deputy, and technical assistant) of Isfahan sport clubs163 : clubs have been reported on behalf of the deputy of sports development of Isfahan general department sports science in 2012. Considering one to three persons as the manager or authority from each club to be questioned, the statistical society of the research was estimated about 250 individuals. In order to choose the statistical sample, 130 persons were chosen out of 250 clubs managers based on Cochran's formula, and selected in random racemes among the statistical society. Finally, 100 questionnaires were gathered there between and utilized in the statistical analysis. The results showed that according to the views of club managers, privatization plays important roles in increasing the human resources productivity (p≥0/05, t = 12/22), and in equipment and facilities' productivity (p≥0/05, t=16/93), and in management and planning productivity (p≥0/05, t=15/53), and in financial resource's productivity (p≥0/05, t=13/30), and in user's productivity (p≥0/05, t=14/92). In addition, According to the findings obtained from the factor analysis variance test, There was no significant deference demographic aspects (gender, educational degree, management background, work background and employment status), about the role of privatization in productivity [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to investigate the relation between teachers' concern toward information and communication technology and their usage levels according to Hall and Hord's Concern Based Adoption Model. Research population was high school teachers in Isfahan city. The sample included 110 teachers selected by clustering random sampling method. The research method was correlation and descriptive. Research instruments were two questionnaires: A) Hall and Hord's Concern Based Adoption Model, and B) Griffens' and Cristinesen's questionnaire for measuring usage levels. Data was analyzed by using correlation coefficient and regression analysis. Results indicated that there were positive relationships between information and communication technologies levels of use (non-use, orientation, preparation, mechanical use, routine, refinement, integration, and renewal) and stages of concern (awareness, informational, personal, management, consequence, collaboration, and refocusing). There was not a meaningful relationship between levels of use and management stage of concern. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Shahid Babaie airbase is one of the most important centers of Leishmania in Isfahan province. This is because of proximity to hyperendemic regions like Borkhar and also because of urbanizing and residency of migrant militaries and their families in this infected region. Training the community in regions with high incidence, performing public programs for screening, treatment and taking proper actions to control sandfly (phlebotomus) and animal reservoirs of the parasite are pivotal factors in controlling Leishmania. It seems that training the high risk community about preventive methods is one of the most effective strategies against Leishmania. Regarding more incidence of the disease among the youth and their sensitivity to get infected, we decided to examine knowledge, attitude and practice of guidance and high school students regarding Leishmania in that region. We aimed to provide training programs to improve preventive behavior against Leishmania in the next phase of the project. Methods: This project was designed as a descriptive- cross sectional study. We used proper questionnaires which were filled out via interview. The target community, were students of guidance and high school in Sh. Babaie airbase region of Isfahan. Sampling was done by enumeration method. The questionnaire consisted of questions about knowledge, attitude and practice which were categorized into 3 grades (weak, intermediate, strong) on the basis of collected scores. Findings: In this study, 450 students took part. Among these, 245 were high school students (126 male and 119 female) and 215 were in guidance school (91 male and 124 female). Knowledge score was 17.47 with the range of (0-30) and the grade was intermediate. Attitude score was 37 with the range of (13-52) and the grade was also intermediate. Their practice score was 1.8, range (0-6) and the obtained grade was weak. Attitude and knowledge showed statistical meaningful correlation with gender; these two scores were higher in female students regarding prevention of the disease. Specific knowledge about Leishmania symptoms, carrier and reservoirs were higher than the knowledge about preventive methods. Results showed that, 47.2% of students believed in "fortune" to get infected. Although 97.9% of students knew that sandfly is the carrier but only 28.6% knew what exactly sandfly is. Conclusion: Increasing knowledge by giving direct and face to face training to students (the high risk community), teachers and mothers who have a significant role in changing the behavior of the youth is essential. In conclusion, improved knowledge will result in promotion of the attitude level and especially practice of the students to prevent Leishmania in the region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: One of the major causes of mortality in patients with kidney failure requiring dialysis is cardiovascular diseases. Metabolic syndrome refers to a collection of metabolic disorders that causes systemic inflammation and therefore plays an important role in increasing the incidence of cardiovascular disorders and the associated mortality and morbidity. Given the increasing prevalence of metabolic syndrome in the general population, this study was designed to investigate the prevalence of metabolic syndrome in patients on peritoneal dialysis and hemodialysis. Methods: A cross-sectional study on 170 patients on dialysis was performed in Alzahra Hospital, Isfahan, Iran. Blood samples were obtained to examine glucose, lipid profile, hemoglobin, albumin, parathyroid hormone (PTH), calcium, phosphorus, and white blood cell count (WBC). Blood pressure, weight, height, and waist circumference were also measured by standard methods. The information of patients was recorded in a questionnaire. Findings: Metabolic syndrome was observed in 67% of the studied population. The prevalence of metabolic syndrome was higher in females than males (77% vs. 57%). The syndrome was also more prevalent among peritoneal dialysis patients than individuals on hemodialysis (73% vs. 47%). The highest prevalence in hemodialysis patients was seen in patients who were dialyzed through a temporary catheter. The average weight, body mass index, albumin levels, and WBC were significantly higher in patients with metabolic syndrome. However, the differences in hemoglobin, PTH, calcium, and phosphorus values were not statistically significant between patients with and without metabolic syndrome. Conclusion: The prevalence of metabolic syndrome is high in dialysis, especially in peritoneal dialysis, patients. In addition, women are more at risk than men. Therefore, in order to prevent cardiovascular mortality and morbidity, these patients need to be regularly examined to diagnose and treat the risk factors of metabolic syndrome as soon as possible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Natural vaginal delivery is the best method offered most of the time; however, the rate of cesarean section has been increased several times during recent decades. Nowadays, approximately 50-65 percent of deliveries are done as cesarean section in Iran. This event can be dealt with by providing correct information about the advantages and disadvantages of cesarean and vaginal delivery. The present study aimed to investigate the extent of information gynecologists provide to pregnant mothers about the advantages and disadvantages of various childbirth methods (informed consent factors). Methods: This was a cross-sectional, descriptive study conducted on 482 pregnant mothers at the third trimester of pregnancy who have been admitted in Obstetrics and Gynecology Ward of a certain number of private hospitals, university hospitals, non-academic public hospitals and Social Security hospitals either in order for delivery or any other reason. Selecting pregnant mothers implemented though convenient non-randomized method. The informed consent questionnaire consisted of 30 questions about disadvantages, advantages, costs, alternative methods and circumstance and quality of presenting information to mothers. The data were analyzed through Software SPSS version 16 (Version 16, SPSS Inc. Chicago, Il) and by the use of Chi-square, Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney tests. Findings: Mean total information presented to the pregnant mothers was 1.06 out of 4 (SD = 0.93). The presented information included about complications of cesarean 0.82 (SD = 1.07), complications of natural vaginal delivery 0.85 (SD = 1.1), advantages of cesarean 1.29 (SD = 1), advantages of vaginal delivery 1.34 (SD = 1). Costs 2.29 (SD = 1.3), alternative deliveries 0.95 (SD = 1.1) and quality of information presentation 1.21 (SD = 1.14). Conclusion: The extent of considering to the obtained informed consent of mothers by obstetricians and gynecologists was very low and it has been associated with a particular bias in some cases. Thus, implementing developed and proper planning seems necessary to educate and promote awareness and knowledge of patients toward patient's right and as well as attracting physicians' attention for giving more concentration to this right. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Truth telling is found as one of the most important issues in physician-patient communication and all of the physicians are concerned with it in some way. As disclosure (or truth reticence) would cause ethical or legal problems, this study aimed to assess the attitude of patients and physicians about truth telling. Methods: In this descriptive study, 50 physicians and 150 patients with cancer were envolved in Isfahan, Iran. Two standardized attitude questionnaires were used for physicians and patients. Data were analyzed by SPSS software. Findings: About 88% of patients and 90% of physicians agreed truth telling for patients in early stage of cancer. 78% of patients and 72% of physicians were agreed truth telling for patients with terminal stage cancer. Both physicians and patients were agreed frankness in telling the diagnosis; they separated no effect for patient socioeconomic condition on truth telling. In both groups, doctor was the best person for telling the cancer diagnosis. Doctor office and quiet and undisturbed room were the best places for truth telling in patients and physicians viewpoints, respectively. Conclusion: Noticing the obtained results in our society culture, the majority of patients and physicians had positive attitude about truth telling to patients in different stages of cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Current ante natal care in Iran is not sufficient to meet the needs of pregnant women; at the same time, the caesarian section procedures are fairly common in the country. Therefore Ministry of Health and Education offered "Facility of physiologic delivery program" as pilot study in several provinces including Isfahan. In this study, we would like to evaluate the strength and weakness of this program in order to improve the national operation. Methods: In this study we performed a program evaluation on operation of Facility of physiologic delivery program in Isfahan in 2009. To achieve this, we used the American CDC evaluation program in 6 levels. In this study, a sample of 150 pregnant women, 144 of their husbands, 29 midwives, 21 gynecologist, and 8 hospital mangers participated. The indicators in 4 areas of in-put, process, out-put, and context were received based on ideas stack-holders checklist. The data were gathered through observation interviews and questioners. We has been analyzed and interpreted with SPSS15. Finding: The midwifes' skills and knowledge, course's educational content, physicians and midwife teamwork, scientific and practical education, midwife follow-up with pregnant women, mother's satisfaction, increasing in request of normal vaginal delivery, stakeholders opinion of the program, and public acceptance of the program received excellent ranking, hospital readiness for normal vaginal delivery and type of delivery received intermediate ranking, and media role in informing public received low ranking. Conclusion: In general, our evaluation indicates that the program is successful and with some correction can be implemented in national level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An article is presented that reports on the use of information and communication technology (ICT) among higher school teachers in Isfahan, Iran. Isfahan teachers were randomly selected and proportioned based on teaching experience and background to examine their use of computers and applications such as Microsoft PowerPoint and Excel programs. The article also discusses internet communication, the role of technology in student learning, and technology training for curriculum design and syllabus planning.

Objective: To evaluate the effect of emotional adjustment on IUD continuation to understand why persons with similar clinical problems have different interpretation and select different strategies to cope with their complaints. Materials and Methods: This historical cohort study was carried out on 12 randomly chosen health center of Isfahan province in 2007. Two hundred forty eight literate and married women aged 15-49 years who had chosen IUD as a contraceptive method since 2002 entered the study. After explaining the aim of the study and taking informed consent, women completed the demographic, individual characteristics and 32 questions in emotional domain of Bell's Adjustment Inventory (adult form). May 2007 was considered the end time if IUD consumption as a defined outcome. Data analysis was performed with the SPSS version 15. T-chest, chi-square, Mann-Whitney, General Linear Model, Regression were used for data analysis. Results: During this period 60% (146) of women preserved their IUD and 40% (98) of them removed their IUD. The mean score of emotional adjustment was 16.16±6.28 in IUD preserved women in comparison to 18.23±5.63 in IUD removed women. Poor, moderate and good grades of emotional adjustment were 54%, 40% and 6% in IUD preserved woman vs 72.4%. 24.5% and 3.1% in IUD removed women. Conclusion: Psychological factors such as emotional adjustment can influence IUD survival; so improved conselling and good candidate selection before IUD insertion is recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives and background: Transfer factor or carbon monoxide diffusing capacity (DLCO) is a particularly valuable test of the appropriateness of gas exchange across the alveolocapillary membrane. The purpose of this study is to derive predictive equations for DLCO and its derivative volume-corrected DLCO (DLCO/VA) measured by single-breath method in a large non-smoking population sample in Isfahan. Methodology: We evaluated 1429 randomly selected subjects (732 men, aged 5–85 years). Gender-specific linear prediction equations were developed by multiple regression analysis; with measured DLCO, and DLCO/VA values (mmol/min/kPa), as dependent variables regressed against age (A), height (H) and body surface area (BSA). Results: For both genders, age had negative effects on DLCO, while height had a positive effect on DLCO and DLCO/VA ( P < 0.01). The prediction equations for DLCO and DLCO/VA are: ‘0.152 × height − 0.056 × age − 11.595’ and ‘−0.12 × age + 2.467’, for men and: ‘−0.035 × age − 0.133 × height − 10.707’ and ‘−0.012 × age − 0.02 × height + 2.755’, for women, respectively. Conclusions: Our results therefore provide an original frame of reference for either DLCO or DLCO/VA in Iranian population, obtained from a standardized single-breath technique. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. We intended to explore the prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and its different stages, as well as CKD associated variables in the adult population in Isfahan province, Iran. Methods. Adults aged ≥ 18 were recruited in a cross-sectional study from 2017 to 2019. Data including demographics, anthropometrics, and laboratory findings were collected from each subject. The equation of chronic kidney disease-Epidemiology Collaboration (CKD-EPI) was used to estimate glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), and eGFR and UACR values were utilized to determine the stages of CKD. Results. Data from a total of 3374 subjects was analyzed. The mean age of participants was 49.3 ± 14.09 years and 59.3% were female. The prevalence of CKD was 18.5%. Only 0.25 and 3.5% of the population were in CKD stage 3 and 4, while most of the patients were in CKD stage 2 (7.6%) and stage 1 (7.1%). CKD patients were mostly on refined grains diet and used lesser dairy products compared to healthy participants. Variables including systolic blood pressure (OR = 1.018; P < .001), diastolic blood pressure (OR = 1.005; P < .05), fasting blood sugar (OR = 1.011; P < .001), female sex (OR = 1.319; P < .05), body mass index (OR = 1.030; P < .05), married status (OR = 1.335; P < .05), and smoking (OR = 1.529; P < .05) were significantly associated with increased risk of CKD in the logistic regression analysis. Conclusion. According to our results, the prevalence of CKD, especially stages 1 and 2, is quite high in central part of Iran. These findings help us to improve the screening for CKD patients and perform larger scale studies to identify the challenges ahead. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Adolescents sometimes engage in risky bicycle stunts due to their risk underestimation. • Some adolescents erroneously believe in their superiority and consider themselves able to manage risks due to their beliefs in their superior skills, quick reaction ability, physical characteristics, and good bicycling equipment. • Emotions and feelings can act as both the reasons for and the outcomes of adolescent bicyclists' risky stunts. • Adolescent bicyclists sometimes unintentionally and habitually perform stunts without thinking about their associated risks. • Supportive social norms and appropriate environmental conditions significantly contribute to adolescent bicyclists' risky stunts. Stunts are one of the main reasons for traffic accidents, particularly among male adolescent bicyclists (ABs). Nonetheless, there are limited data about the theoretical framework of its contributing factors. Moreover, the theoretical frameworks explaining the factors contributing to other risky behaviors have not been used in the area of risky bicycle stunts. The aim of this qualitative study was to explore the factors contributing to risky stunts among male ABs in Iran. This qualitative study was conducted from September 2019 to December 2020 using conventional content analysis. Participants were 29 male ABs purposively selected from Isfahan, Iran. Data were collected through eighteen interviews with sixteen ABs and three focus group discussions with thirteen ABs. Data analysis was conducted concurrently with data collection through conventional qualitative content analysis. The mean of participants' age was 16.4 ± 1.1 years. Factors contributing to their engagement in risky stunts were grouped into three main themes, namely predisposing personal factors (such as risk underestimation, perceived superiority, sensation seeking, emotional condition, and previous stunt-related experiences), reinforcing social factors (such as supportive social norms and weaknesses of traffic regulations), and environmental conditions (such as time conditions and structural factors). This study provides a new classification of the facilitators to risky stunts among male ABs and reveals new facilitators to these stunts, namely perceived superiority and police non-deterrent reactions to stunts. Therefore, programs on the improvement of safe bicycling should focus not only on perceptual and emotional factors and correction of false perceived superiority through education, but also on social norms and beliefs, regulations, and environmental factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Waste separation behavior is an environmental health issue which should be promoted. • Health messages could change beliefs and behaviors regarding waste separation. • Threat-based message do not affect the attitude towards solid waste separation. • Message based on the efficacy of waste separation methods affect this behavior. • Threat/efficacy-based message significantly affect students' waste separation act. The increase in non-separated solid waste is a threat to environmental health. People may be motivated to reduce the destructive effects of waste accumulation in the environment by receiving educational messages and learning the proper methods of waste separation. This study aimed to determine the effect of educational messages on waste separation in dormitory students based on Extended Parallel Process Model (EPPM). This randomized controlled trial was performed on 320 students categorized into four groups from October to December 2019. After installing waste separation tags on separate containers, three types of messages were presented to encourage and educate waste separation in the following four groups: threat messages; efficacy messages; threat/efficacy messages; and control group. Data were collected prior to and one week after training by a self-reported valid and reliable questionnaire. They were analyzed in SPSS21. In the efficacy group and threat/efficacy group, not only the mean scores of "perceived threat associated with non-segregation and waste accumulation", "attitude" and "intention" but also the mean score of "efficacy" and "waste separation behavior" were improved (P < 0.05). In both groups, the mean score of "perceived barriers" for waste separation was lower than the other two groups (P < 0.001). Use of efficacy-based massages alone or in combination with the threat component was proposed to promote waste separation. No specific study has documented the effectiveness of messages based on EPPM on solid waste separation behaviors. The current study highlighted the effectiveness of using EPPM to promote waste-separation behavior in practice, not in theory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]