Search

New investigations suggest a pivotal role of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in cardiovascular homeostasis. However, no data could indicate the association between BDNF methylation status and the risk of coronary artery disease (CAD). The aim of the present study was to assess the association of BDNF methylation status and its serum level with the severity of CAD. According to the angiography report, a total of 84 non-diabetic CAD patients with at least 50% stenosis in one of the major coronary arteries were selected as the CAD group. For comparison, 62 angiographically proven non-CAD participants were selected as control. Additionally, subjects were categorized according to the Gensini Scoring system. Blood sample was used for genomic DNA isolation. Methylation status of the BDNF gene in exonic region was determined using the MS-PCR method and serum BDNF levels were measured with ELISA. BDNF gene methylation was significantly higher in the CAD group than in the non-CAD group. After adjustment for confounding factors, BDNF gene hypermethylation increases the risk of CAD in the total population (OR = 2.769; 95% CI, 1.033–7.423; P = 0.043). BDNF gene hypermethylation was higher in patients with severe CAD than patients with mild CAD. Additionally, the serum BDNF level was not different from non-diabetic CAD and control groups. Our findings indicate that BDNF hypermethylation was associated with an increased risk of CAD, which may help identify subjects being at the risk of developing CAD. In addition, BDNF hypermethylation shows a significant correlation with the severity of CAD.

Background: The rs315952 (Ser133Ser) has been reported to influence the risk for immune-mediated as well as inflammatory diseases in many studies; however, the results remain inconsistent. The current meta-analysis was performed to give a more precise estimation for the relationship between this IL-1Ra missense variant and the risk of both types of diseases. Methods: Relevant publications were retrieved through a literature search in Web of Science, Medline, PubMed, Scopus, EMBASE, and Google scholar search engines, between 2000 and 2019. Odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated to assess the strength of the association.95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated to assess the strength of the association. Results: Twenty-two studies, including 2622 cases with and 3854 controls were identified. The IL-1Ra Ser133Ser variant does not confer an increased overall risk for immune-mediated and inflammatory diseases. This variant was statistically associated with decreased risk of systemic lupus erythematosus (under allelic, codominant heterozygous, and dominant models) or ankylosing spondylitis (in allelic and recessive models)(OR

Cutaneous leishmaniasis as a public health concern that attracts many attentions in endemic area. There is no exact estimation of cutaneous leishmaniasis in Iran. This study aimed to assess the exact prevalence of disease and carried out in databases including: Pub Med, Google Scholar, Science Direct, Scopus, Web of Science, Magiran, Iran doc, Barakatkns and Scientific Information Database (SID) from 2000 to 2019. Totally 84 studies were eligible to be included in this systematic review and Meta-analysis study. Based on a random effect model the pooled prevalence of leishmaniasis was estimated 45% (95% CI: 39%-51%; I^2 = 99.8%P 0.001). The highest prevalence of CL was related to Isfahan 66% (53%-78%), Golestan 64% (62%-65%) and Fars province 63% (38%-84%) and the lowest prevalence was estimated in Kermanshah province 4% (4%-5%), Hormozgan 10% (8%-11%), Bushehr 12% (1%-35%) and Kerman 15% (9%-22%) provinces respectively. The lowest prevalence was associated with L. trapica spices 23% (11%-38%) and the highest was associated with L. major spices 32% (21%-45%). The prevalence with both L. trapica and L. major spices was achieved 60% (48%-71%). It is essential for health authorities to take steps to control and prevent the epidemic by rapid treatment of patients, destroying gerbils and promotion of general and health education for the local population.

Anaplasma species are tick-borne pathogens that are obligatory intracellular of ruminants and other mammalians. In this investigation, we systematically reviewed the distribution of anaplasmosis among domestic ruminants in Iran. Five and four English and Persian databases were studied, respectively, based on keywords and throughout 17 years (2001–2017). Thirty-eight articles were included in this systematic review and meta-analysis. Totally, 5093 cattle, 1958 sheep, and 1232 goats corresponding to prevalence of Anaplasma infection from different areas of Iran were examined. The total prevalence of Anaplasma infection was estimated to be 34% (95% CI 27%, 41%) in domestic ruminants. Based on our data, Khozestan (54%) and Khorasan Razavi (46%) provinces were the most prevalent areas in Iran and Kerman (3%) and Hamedan (1%) provinces are the lowest. The highest prevalence of Anaplasma spp. infection was belonged to A. ovis (44%) and the lowest to A. phagocytophilum (1%) with a significant difference among them (p

Background: Cryptosporidium species are recognized as one of the most important gastrointestinal pathogens of humans and livestock. Objectives: This study aimed to determine the prevalence and sub-genotypes of Cryptosporidium spp. among diarrheic patients in Bandar Abbas City, Iran. Methods: Diarrheic fecal samples were collected from 170 patients in three hospitals of Bandar Abbas, Iran, from October 2018 to May 2019. Initial parasitological identification of Cryptosporidium spp. was performed by modified Ziehl-Neelsen (ZN) staining. For molecular analysis, the positive specimens and the suspected ones of Cryptosporidium spp. were evaluated by sequence analysis of the 60-kDa glycoprotein gene (gp60). The collected data were analyzed using SPSS software and the relationship between the variables and the presence of Cryptosporidium spp. assessed by the chi-square test. To assess the degree of agreement between PCR and ZN staining, Cohen’s kappa-index was applied. Results: Of the 170 diarrheic patients, 98 (57.6%) were male, and 72 (42.4%) were female. Prevalence of Cryptosporidium spp. by parasitological examination was 1.8% (3/170). However, using PCR, Cryptosporidium spp. was detected in 12% (6/50) of the positive microscopically samples (3 samples) and 47 suspected specimens. Sequence analysis of the gp60 gene showed that all of the positive isolates were Cryptosporidium parvum in which all subtypes belonged to allele family IId. Two distinct nucleotide sequences obtained from this study were deposited in GenBank under the accession numbers MN820453 and MN820454. Conclusions: The predominance of C. parvum (subtype family IId) in this study emphasizes the importance of zoonotic Cryptosporidium transmission in Bandar Abbas, Southern Iran.

Pediculosis by Pediculus humanus capitis is still an important health issue in school-age students worldwide. Although pediculicidal agents effectively kill head lice, the re-infestation rate is still high. This study was conducted to provide a summary of evidence about the prevalence of pediculosis capitis among school-age students worldwide. Different databases including MEDLINE/PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched for publications related to pediculosis capitis in school-age students from 1977 to 2020. All peer-reviewed original research articles describing pediculosis capitis among school-age students were included. Statistical heterogeneity of the different years among studies was assessed using the standard chi squared and I2 tests. Due to the significant heterogeneity, a random effect model was adopted to estimate the pooled, continent, and gender-specific prevalence of pediculosis. Two hundred and one papers met the inclusion criteria of this review and entered into the meta-analysis including 1,218,351 individuals. Through a random effect model, the prevalence of pediculosis capitis among school students was estimated as 19% (CI 95% = 0.18–0.20%, I2 = 99.89%). The prevalence of pediculosis capitis among boys was 7% (CI 95% = 0.05–0.10) compared to 19% (CI 95% = 0.15–0.24) in girls. The highest prevalence was in Central and South America (33%, CI 95% = 0.22–0.44, I2 = 99.81%) and the lowest was in Europe (5%, CI 95% = 4–6, I2 = 99.28%). Relatively high pediculosis capitis prevalence among school-age students observed in this study emphasizes the need for implementing screening and prophylaxis tailored to the local context.

Introduction Occupational exposure to extremely low frequency magnetic fields (ELF-MF) occurs in many occupations such as welders, electric utility workers, train drivers and sewing machine operators. There is some evidence suggesting ELF-MF exposure to be a risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease (AD). The current study aims at systematically reviewing the literature and conducting a meta-analysis to evaluate the risk of AD amongst workers exposed to ELF-MF. Methods Bibliographic databases were searched including PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science in November 2017. Risk of bias was assessed in the all included studies. Pooled estimates were obtained using random-effects meta-analysis. In addition, sources of heterogeneity between studies and publication bias were explored. Results In total, 20 articles met the inclusion criteria. The pooled results suggest an increased risk of AD (RR: 1.63; 95% CI: 1.35, 1.96). Higher risk estimates were obtained from case-control studies (OR: 1.80; 95% CI: 1.40, 2.32) than from cohort studies (RR: 1.42; 95% CI: 1.08, 1.87). A moderate to high heterogeneity (I2 = 61.0%) and indication for publication bias (Egger test: p Conclusion The results suggested that occupational exposure to ELF-MF might increase the risk of AD. However, this suggestion should be interpreted with caution given the moderate to high heterogeneity and indication for publication bias.

Objectives Pentavalent antimonials have been used for the treatment of leishmaniasis for over 70 years, however they are limited by their toxicity. Unfortunately, the efficacy of first-line drugs for the treatment of leishmaniasis has decreased and resistance is noticeable. Luliconazole is a new azole with unique effects on fungi that has not yet been tested on Leishmania parasites. Methods In this study, the cytotoxicity and antileishmanial activity of luliconazole were evaluated in vitro against promastigotes and intracellular amastigotes of Leishmania major. The docking simulation with the target enzyme, sterol 14α-demethylase (CYP51) was performed using AutoDock 4.2 program. Results The IC50 (concentration of test compound required for 50% inhibition) against promastigotes revealed that luliconazole (IC50 = 0.19 μM) has greater potency than ketoconazole (KET), meglumine antimoniate (MA) and amphotericin B (AmB) (IC50 values of 135, 538 and 2.52 μM, respectively). Against the amastigote stage, luliconazole at a concentration of 0.07 μM decreased the mean infection rate and the mean number of amastigotes per macrophage more effectively than MA (P 0.05). A docking study of luliconazole with the cytochrome P450 enzyme sterol 14α-demethylase (CYP51) revealed that this azole drug can properly interact with the target enzyme in Leishmania mainly via coordination with heme and multiple hydrophobic interactions. Conclusion These results show the potent activity of luliconazole at extremely low concentrations against L. major. It may therefore be considered as a new candidate for treatment of leishmaniasis in the near future.

Background: Aspergillus sensitization (AS) and allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA) can occur as a cause of permanent lung damage in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) and non-CF bronchiectasis. Objective: The aim of this study was to determine the frequency of AS and ABPA in patients with CF and non- CF bronchiectasis in southwestern Iran. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 33 patients with CF and 27 patients with non-CF bronchiectasis from southwestern Iran who were referred to Namazi Hospital affiliated to Shiraz University of Medical Sciences from July 2015 to February 2016. Skin prick test to Aspergillus fumigatus, peripheral blood eosinophil count, total serum IgE, specific IgE and IgG against Aspergillus fumigatus as well as radiologic chest studies were done for each patient. Statistical analysis was done by Mann-Whitney U test, Fisher Exact test, and Kappa weighted in SPSS software version 18. Level of significance was set at p

Introduction:: Recent reports have suggested that gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is link with cow’s milk allergy (CMA) in children. The aim of this study was to determine the frequency of CMA in young children with GERD.Materials and Methods: This cross- sectional study included 33 children (median age, 2.93±1.90 years) with GERD according to a valid gastroesophageal reflux questionnaire and 33 healthy children (median age, 3.39±1.90 years). CMA was diagnosed by skin test, serum specific IgE level and atopy patch test to milk in both patient and control groups.Results: Twenty- four children with GERD showed positive reaction to at least one of the diagnostic tests for CMA compared to 13 children in control group (OR=1.78; CI 95% 1.14 to 2.80). There was a significant difference in the result of patch test between the children with GERD and controls (OR=2.06; CI 95%, 1.46 to 2.91), but not in the skin test and the level of specific IgE to milk. Twenty- two patients (67%) had positive family history for atopy while four children (12%) in control group (P

Background Leishmaniasis is a major public health problem worldwide. The aim of the present study was to investigate medicinal plants with anti-Leishmania activity which used in Iran. Methods Data were systematically gathered from five English databases including Ebsco, Science Direct, PubMed, Google Scholar and Scopus, four Persian databases including Magiran, Iran doc, Iran medex and the Scientific Information Database (SID) from 1999 to April 2015. Information obtained included plant family, extraction method, concentrations of extracts, animal models and parasite strains. Results A total of 68 articles including 188 experiments (140 in vitro and 48 in vivo) between 1999 and 2015, met our eligibility criteria. Thoroughly, 98 types of plants were examined against three genera of Leishmania spp. For the heterogeneity study conducted, it was showed that there was a great deal of variation among studies. Based on random effect, meta-analysis pooled mean of IC50 was obtained 456.64 (95% CI: 396.15, 517.12). Conclusion The most Iranian plants used as anti-leishmanial activity were Artemisia species, Allium sativum, Achilleamille folium, Peganum harmala and Thymus vulgaris. The present systematic and meta-analysis review provide valuable information about natural products with anti-Leishmania activity, which would be examined in the future experimental and clinical trials and herbal combination therapy., Highlights • We systematically reviewed all published papers regarding herbal medicine with antileishmanial activity in Iran among nine databases from 1999 to April 2015. • Overall 68 articles including 140 in vitro and 48 in vivo, met our eligibility criteria. Also, 98 types of plants were examined against three genera of Leishmania spp. • Our study shows, the most Iranian plants with anti-leishmanial activity were Artemisia species, Allium sativum, Achilleamille folium, Peganum harmala and Thymus vulgaris.

There is no data concerning the status of Linguatula serrata (L. serrata) infection in ruminants in Mazandaran Province, northern Iran. Therefore, the present study was aimed to investigate the prevalence and pathologic features of linguatulosis, among slaughtered ruminants in several abattoirs in Mazandaran Province. The infection rate of L. serrata in mesenteric lymph nodes of sheep, goats, and cattle were grossly and microscopically examined. Overall, of 6249 goats, sheep, and cattle examined, 16.8% of goats, 6.8% of sheep, and 6.9% of cattle were found to be infected with L. serrata nymphs. In general, the prevalence rate of L. serrata infection was 9.1% in these animals. The prevalence of L.serrata infection in goats was significantly (p

Objective To evaluate the overall prevalence of Toxoplasma gondii infection among birds and poultries in Iran. Methods Data were systematically collected from 1983 to 2016 in Iran on the following electronic databases: PubMed, Google Scholar, Science Direct, Scopus, Web of Science, Magiran, Irandoc, IranMedex, and Scientific Information Database. Additionally, the abstracts of national scientific congresses and dissertations were included. Results A total of 20 articles in the field of birds and poultries toxoplasmosis, totally examining 4563 cases with 754 positive results reporting the overall prevalence of infection from all parts of Iran could fulfill our eligibility criteria. The overall estimated prevalence included in chicken 20% (95% CI: 3%–38%) in chicken, pigeons 8% (95% CI: −17%–33%) and in sparrows 15% (95% CI: −25%–54%). Conclusion Although there is a lack in data about poultries and birds toxoplasmosis in Iran, our meta-analysis revealed that infection rate is high among birds and poultries in Iran. More studies are needed to manage controlling programs and prevention strategies among poultries in Iran.

Parasitic infections are a serious public health problem because they cause anemia, growth retardation, aggression, weight loss, and other physical and mental health problems, especially in children. Numerous studies have been performed on intestinal parasitic infections in Iranian preschool and school children. However, no study has gathered and analyzed this information systematically. The aim of this study was to provide summary estimates for the available data on intestinal parasitic infections in Iranian children. We searched 9 English and Persian databases, unpublished data, abstracts of scientific congresses during 1996-2015 using the terms intestinal parasite, Giardia, Cryptosporidium, Enterobiusvermicularis, oxyure, school, children, preschool, and Iran. We conducted meta-analysis using STATA, and for all statistical tests, p-value less than 0.05was considered significant. Among the 68,532 publications searched as a result, 103 were eligible for inclusion in the study. The prevalence rate of intestinal parasitic infections was 38% (95% CI- 33%, 43%). Prevalence of protozoa, helminthic intestinal infections, and non-pathogenic parasites was 16.9%, 9.48%, and 18.5%, respectively, which affected 14.27% males and 15.3% females. The rate of infection in preschool and school children was 38.19% and 43.37% respectively. Giardia, Enterobiusvermicularis and Entamoeba coli were the most common among protozoa, helminthic, and non-pathogenic infections (15.1%, 16.5%, and 7.1%, respectively). The data analyses indicated that the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infection is decreasing in Iranian preschool and school children. Improvement of sanitation, personal hygiene, increased awareness of people, seasonal variations, and health education can be effective in reducing parasitic infections in different communities.

Visceral leishmaniasis is considered an endemic zoonosis in some parts of Iran and dogs are main reservoirs, which play role in the transmission cycle of human leishmaniasis. This systematic review and meta-analysis was performed to determine the prevalence of canine visceral leishmaniasis (CVL) in Iran. Data were systematically collected from 1982 to 2015 in Iran on the following electronic databases: PubMed, Google Scholar, Science Direct, Scopus, Web of Science, Magiran, Irandoc, Iran medex and Scientific Information Database (SID). A total of 39 articles concerning dogs, 6 articles on jackals, 4 articles on wolves and 4 articles on foxes, reporting the prevalence of CVL from different regions of Iran fulfilled our eligibility criteria. Totally, 19903 dogs, 151 jackals, 42 wolves and 44 foxes were examined and the overall prevalence rate of CVL in Iran was estimated to be as following: in dogs 16% (95% CI: 13-19%), in jackals 10% (95% CI: 5-15%), in wolves 10% (95% CI: 5-15%) and in foxes 10% (95% CI: 1k19%), respectively. There was a significant difference in infection rate between male and female dogs, the infection in males 9% (95% CI: 8.8-10.5%) was more than females 7% (95% CI: 5.5-7.5%) (p=0.024). Also, the rate of infection was significantly higher in older dogs than younger ones (p

The World Health Organization has reported an annual global suicide rate of 14.5 per 100,000 people. On the other hand, it is estimated that approximately one-third of the global population are infected with Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) parasite. It is widely assumed that microbial pathogens, such as T. gondii, are probably associated with affective and behavioural modulation. The present article aimed to assess the proposed role of toxoplasmosis in raising the risk of suicidal ideation (SI) and suicide attempts (SA) using the available epidemiological data. Seven major electronic databases and the Internet search engine Google were searched for all the studies published between the 1st of January 1950 and 31st of October 2019. The heterogeneity and the risk of bias within and across studies were assessed. Following data extraction, pooled odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence interval (CI) across studies were calculated using the random-effects models. A total number of 9,696 articles were screened and 27 studies were regarded as eligible in our systematic review (SI with five papers and 22 papers on SA). A significant association was detected between antibodies against T. gondii with TA (ORs = 1.57; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.23-2.00, p = .000). Exploration of the association between T. gondii and SA yielded a positive effect of seropositivity for IgG antibodies but not IgM. Despite the limited number of studies, a statistical association was detected between suicidal behaviours and infection with latent T. gondii.

Background One of the effective indicators for determining the efficiency and optimal use of hospital resources is the length of stay (LOS). This study aimed to determine the patients’ length of stay and the factors affecting the LOS in the Children’s hospital. Method A cross-sectional study was performed on Children Hospital medical record database including 350 records (April 2015 to Dec 2015). Records were selected by stratified random sampling with proportional allocation. Then the predetermined demographic and hospital variables were extracted through the study of patients’ medical records. All statistical analysis were performed using SPSS software. Results The overall median of the LOS in the studied hospital was 3 days (IQR =3). The results showed that in this hospital the LOS has a significant relationship with the variables of time of admission, the place of residence, type of admission, and the degree of attending physician. Also, with the increasing number of visits, ultrasonography, counseling and laboratory test, LOS was increased. Conclusion Improving processes related to diagnostic procedures, providing adequate staffing for specialized services in all hours of the day, preventing unnecessary and non-emergency admissions in the evening and night, will be effective in optimizing patient LOS.

Objectives: The present systematic review attempted to determine the prevalence of Linguatula serrata (L. serrata) infection among Iranian livestock. The L. serrata known as tongue worm belongs to the phylum pentastomida and lives in upper respiratory system and nasal airways of carnivores. Herbivores and other ruminants are intermediate hosts. Methods: MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and the Cochrane Library were searched from Nov 1996 to 22 Apr 2019 by searching terms including “Linguatula serrata”, “linguatulosis”, “pentastomida”, “bovine”, “cattle”, “cow”, “buffalo”, “sheep”, “ovine”, “goat”, “camel”, “Iran”, and “prevalence” alone or in combination. The search was conducted in Persian databases of Magiran, Iran doc, Barakatkns (Iran medex) and Scientific Information Database (SID) with the same keywords. After reviewing the full texts of 133 published studies, 50 studies had the eligibility criteria to enter our review. Results: By random effects model analysis, the pooled prevalence of linguatulosis was 25% (95%CI: 18.0–33.0, I2 = 98.67 % , P

Introduction and objectives A high rate of cross-reactivity has been reported between the specific proteins of hen’s egg with proteins of various avian eggs by quantitative immunoelectrophoretic techniques. The aim of this study was to assess the clinical cross-reactivity of different birds’ eggs in children with hen’s egg allergy based on skin prick test results. Material and methods This cross-sectional study enrolled 52 infants with hen’s egg allergy and 52 healthy infants with no history of food allergy from October 2018 to April 2019. Skin prick tests were performed in both patient and control groups with fresh extract of white and yolk related to pigeon, duck, goose, turkey, quail, and partridge. Results Fifty (96.1%) children with hen’s egg allergy showed positive sensitization to at least one of the avian eggs. The most frequent positive skin tests were related to quail’s white (36 = 69.2%) followed by duck’s white (34 = 65.5%), and sensitization was the least frequent in pigeon’s yolk (23 = 44.2%). Skin tests of the control group were negative to all the tested extracts. Conclusion Because of fewer sensitizations to some avian eggs, further research should clarify starting oral immunotherapy with the yolk of goose and pigeon in children with hen’s egg allergy.

Background: Religious obligation helps people to develop mental health by creating internal commitment to special rules. This meta-analysis aimed to determine the relationship between religious orientation and anxiety among college students. Methods: Major scientific databases including PubMed, Web of Science, Science Direct, EBSCO, ProQuest and PsycINFO were searched for original research articles published 1987-2016. A random effect model was used to combine Correlation coefficient. All analyses were performed using Stata MP. Results: After screening of 7235 documents, 13 articles including 5620 participants met inclusion criteria in this meta-analysis. Correlation coefficient was -0.08 (95% CI= -0.19, -0.03) which indicated with increasing religious orientation, anxiety and depression reduced (P

Staphylokinase (SAK) is a promising thrombolytic agent for the treatment of patients suffering from blood-clotting disorders. To increase the potency of SAK and to minimize vessel reocclusion, a new construct bearing SAK motif fused to tsetse thrombin inhibitor (TTI) via a 20-amino acid linker with 2 RGD (2 x Arginine-Glycine-Aspartic acid inhibiting platelet aggregation via attachment to integrin receptors of platelet) was codon optimized and expressed comparatively in Pichia pastoris GS115 as a Mut+ strain and KM71H as a Muts strain. Fusion protein was optimized in terms of best expression condition and fibrinolytic activity and compared with the rSAK. Expression level of the designed construct reached up to 175 mg/L of the culture medium after 72-hr stimulation with 2.5% methanol and remained steady for 3-4 days. The highest expression was obtained at the range of 2-3% methanol. The SAK-2RGD-TT (relative activity > 82%) was more active at 25-37°C than rSAK (relative activity of 93%). Further, it showed relative activity > 80% at pH ranges of 7-9. Western blot analysis showed two bands of nearly 27 and 24 kDa at ratio of 5 to 3, respectively. The specific fibrinolytic activity of the SAK-2RGD-TTI was measured as 8269 U/mg, and 19616 U/mg for the non-purified and purified proteins, respectively. Deglycosylation by using tunicamycin in culture medium resulted in higher fibrinolytic activity of SAK-2RGD-TTI (2.2 fold). Consequently, compared to the rSAK, at the same equimolar proportion, addition of RGD and TTI fragments could increase fibrinolytic activity. Also, P. pastoris can be considered as an efficient host for overexpression of the soluble SAK-2RGD-TTI with high activity without requiring a complicated purification procedure. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is the fatal form of leishmaniasis. A newly emerging focus of zoonotic VL (ZVL) including 13 villages has been reported from Maraveh Tappeh County, Golestan province, north-eastern Iran. We investigated the effect of climatic and environmental factors on the occurrence of disease in this focus by geographical information systems (GIS) approaches and logistic regression models. The incidence rate of ZVL in human and dog population was estimated 1.2% and 27.3%, respectively, in the studied areas. Rock soil type (OR = 11.7), rainfall (OR = 1.04) and elevation (OR = 0.99) were found as determinants of ZVL. Also, almost all infected villages were in close proximity of rivers. Cavities of rock soil around rivers are assumed as suitable areas for sandfly resting and growth by providing shadow and moisture. Rainfall also provides appropriate moisture in semi-arid regions for survival of sandflies. The negative effect of higher altitude can be explained by some sandfly life-limiting conditions like freezing weather. Accordingly, regions with lower altitude and higher rainfall, covered by rock and in close proximity of rivers, are the hazard zones for ZVL in the Maraveh Tappeh. Air humidity, temperature, land cover type and slope were not predictors of disease in the current study. Further investigations on human population movement, probable reservoirs and vectors of disease can provide valuable data for modelling the future distribution of ZVL in the Iranian province.

Objectives The present systematic review attempted to determine the prevalence of Linguatula serrata (L. serrata) infection among Iranian livestock. The L. serrata known as tongue worm belongs to the phylum pentastomida and lives in upper respiratory system and nasal airways of carnivores. Herbivores and other ruminants are intermediate hosts. Methods MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and the Cochrane Library were searched from Nov 1996 to 22 Apr 2019 by searching terms including “Linguatula serrata”, “linguatulosis”, “pentastomida”, “bovine”, “cattle”, “cow”, “buffalo”, “sheep”, “ovine”, “goat”, “camel”, “Iran”, and “prevalence” alone or in combination. The search was conducted in Persian databases of Magiran, Iran doc, Barakatkns (Iran medex) and Scientific Information Database (SID) with the same keywords. After reviewing the full texts of 133 published studies, 50 studies had the eligibility criteria to enter our review. Results By random effects model analysis, the pooled prevalence of linguatulosis was 25% (95%CI: 18.0–33.0, I2 = 98.67 % , P

In recent years feline leishmanial infections (FLI) have been studied more than ever before in various parts of the world. However, evidence-based knowledge on FLI has remained unavailable. The main objectives of this study were to investigate the status of felines infected by Leishmania spp. worldwide. Data were extracted from 10 available databases over the period of 1982 to 2017. Overall, 78 articles fulfilled the inclusion criteria and were used for data extraction in this systematic review. The overall FLI prevalence by both serological and molecular methods was estimated at 10% (95% CI: 8%-14%). In Italy, both the seroprevalence (24 %) and PCR prevalence (21 %) were found to be higher than in other countries. The most common diagnostic test used was the indirect fluorescent antibody test (38.5%). Studies on mixed-breed felines were more common than those on other breeds, while the most common parasite species was L. infantum (63%). Our findings suggest that cats act as primary and/or secondary reservoir hosts in the transmission of the Leishmania spp. to humans and also to dogs, by sandflies, at least in endemic foci. Moreover, available data confirm the enzootic stability situation of FLI in several countries including some in Europe.

Background: Cryptosporidiosis is a parasitic disease caused by a small protozoan of the genus coccidian. It is important in the medical and veterinary area, since it is a zoonotic parasite. Transmission of fecal-oral infections occurs through direct and indirect contact with food and contaminated drinks. Many HIV-positive individuals live in the areas where intestinal parasites are hyperendemic. Objectives: Given the significance of the study associated with opportunistic infectious diseases in this group of patients, we decided to study the prevalence of the parasite in those individuals. Methods: In this descriptive cross-sectional study, we collected a single fecal specimen of 133 HIV-positive patients seeking treatment from the center for Behavioral Disease Counseling of Bandar Abbas, Iran. Stool samples examined by direct, formalin-ether concentration method and modified Ziehl-Neelsen stain for Cryptosporidium spp. Results: The mean age of the patients was 42.15 (ranged 12 - 82 years). No oocyst of cryptosporidium spp. or other intestinal coccidian was found in any of the samples. Only four species including Giardia lamblia, Hymenolepis nana, and both Entamoeba coli and Blastocystis hominis were found in three patients, which indicated less diversity and low frequency of parasitic infection in this study. Conclusions: Monitoring and evaluating the therapeutic process of the patients lead to less infectious diseases, especially those of opportunistic parasites.

Dysfunction of regulatory T cells (Tregs) may contribute to certain immune-related pregnancy complications. Forkhead box protein 3 (FOXP3) is the key transcription factor of Treg. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the possible association between FOXP3 polymorphisms -924A/G (rs2232365) and -3279C/A (rs3761548) and immune-related pregnancy complications. After reviewing 78 fully published studies, 10 studies fulfilled previously defined eligibility criteria and were used for meta-analysis. Two single nucleotide polymorphisms showed a significant correlation with increased or reduced risk for immune-related pregnancy complications. For rs3761548, women with allele A were significantly at a higher risk than women carrying allele C (odds ratio = 1.29, 95% confidence interval: 1.20-1.38; p = 0.001). For rs2232365, women with GG or AG genotype were at a higher risk than women with genotype AA, thereby, allele G was significantly associated with a higher risk than allele A. Our meta-analysis supports the notion that immune-related pregnancy complications might be linked to genetic variations in the FOXP3 gene.

Classrooms are an important environment for young children as this is where they spend a large part of their time.This study was designed to quantify the levels of heavy metals in classroom dusts in Shiraz, a city southwestern Iran. The potential association between heavy metal levels and childhood asthma was also investigated.We selected 32 schools for collecting classroom dust samples during September-November 2016. The concentration of 10 heavy metals was measured in these dust samples by optical emission spectrometry. The diagnosis of childhood asthma was made using both the medical chart of each student and examination by an allergist. The data were analysed using SPSS, version 21.0.The concentration of heavy metals in classroom dust samples ranged from 7559 to 53 723.0 mg/kg (mean: 16 945.5 mg/kg) for Fe, 169.0 to 952.0 mg/kg (mean 288.9 mg/kg) for Mn, and 9.0 to 971.0 mg/kg (mean 258.8 mg/kg) for Pb. We found no correlation between heavy metals in classroom dust and childhood asthma.In comparison with studies reported elsewhere, the maximum levels of lead in our study were greater. A potential explanation for the lack of correlation with childhood asthma is the large mass of the particles, preventing them from reaching the lower airways. Nevertheless, special attention should be paid to reducing high levels of heavy metals in classroom dust in this area.تركز المعادن الثقيلة في العينات الترابية في الفصول الدراسية وعلاقتها بربوْ الطفولة: دراسة من جمهورية إيران الإسلامية.مزكان مقتدري، محمد علي أشرف، طاهرة مقتدري، سعيد حسيني تشنيزي، سيد حسام الدين نبوي زاده.تشكل الفصول الدراسية بيئة مهمة للأطفال الصغار حيث يمضون جزءا كبيرا من أوقاتهم فيها.صُمّمت هذه الدراسة من أجل تحديد مستويات المعادن الثقيلة بصورة كمية في الأتربة المأخوذة من الفصول الدراسية في مدينة شيراز التي تقع جنوب غربي جمهورية إيران الإسلامية. كما درس الباحثون العلاقة المحتملة بين مستويات المعادن الثقيلة والإصابة بالربو في مرحلة الطفولة.اختار الباحثون 32 مدرسة لجمع عينات من أتربة الفصول الدراسية خلال الفترة من سبتمبر/أيلول وحتى ديسمبر/كانون الأول 2016. وقيس تركيز 10 معادن ثقيلة في تلك العينات الترابية بواسطة المقياس البصري للطيف المنبعث. وتم التوصل إلى تشخيص الإصابة بربو الطفولة من خلال مراجعة الملف الطبي لكل طالب على حدة وفحصه على يد اختصاصي تحسُّس. واسْتُخدمت برمجية SPSS، الإصدارة 21.0، لتحليل البيانات.تراوح تركيز المعادن الثقيلة في عينات أتربة الفصول الدراسية بين 7559 وحتى 53723.0 ميلليجرام/كيلوجرام (المتوسط: 16945.5 ميلليجرام/كيلوجرام) كيلوجرام(للحديد، و169.0 إلى 952.0 ميلليجرام/كيلوجرام (متوسط: 288.9 ميلليجرام/كيلوجرام) للمنجنيز، و9.0 إلى 971.0 ميلليجرام/كيلوجرام (متوسط 258.8 ميلليجرام/كيلوجرام) للرصاص. لم يجد الباحثون علاقة ارتباطية بين المعادن الثقيلة في أتربة الفصول الدراسية وبين الإصابة بربو الطفولة.بالمقارنة مع الدراسات التي أُجريت في أماكن أخرى، كانت المستويات القُصوى للرصاص في هذه الدراسة أعلى بكثير. ويمكن أن يُعزى عدم وجود ارتباط بربو الطفولة إلى الكتلة الكبيرة للجسيمات، ما يعوق وصولها إلى مجاري الهواء السفلية. وبالرغم من ذلك، ينبغي إيلاء تركيز خاص إلى الحد من المستويات المرتفعة للمعادن الثقيلة في أتربة الفصول الدراسية في تلك المنطقة.Concentration en métaux lourds dans des échantillons de poussière prélevés dans des salles de classe et lien avec lʹasthme infantile : étude en République islamique dʹIran.Les salles de classe constituent un environnement important pour les jeunes enfants, étant donné qu’ils passent une grande partie de leur temps dans ce lieu.La présente étude a été réalisée pour quantifier les niveaux de métaux lourds présents dans les poussières de salle de classe à Shiraz, ville du sud-ouest de la République islamique d’Iran. Le lien potentiel entre les concentrations de métaux lourds et l’asthme infantile a également été examiné.Nous avons sélectionné 32 écoles pour y prélever des échantillons de poussière dans les classes entre septembre et novembre 2016. La concentration en dix métaux lourds dans ces échantillons a été mesurée par spectrométrie d’émission optique. Le diagnostic d’asthme infantile a été posé à la fois sur la base du dossier médical de chaque élève et d’un examen réalisé par un allergologue. Les données ont été analysées à l’aide du logiciel SPSS, version 21.0.La concentration en métaux lourds dans les échantillons de poussière des salles de classe variait de 7 559 à 53 723,0 mg/kg (moyenne : 16 945,5 mg/kg) pour Fe, de 169,0 à 952,0 mg/kg (moyenne : 288,9 mg/kg) pour Mn et de 9,0 à 971,0 mg/kg (moyenne : 258,8 mg/kg) pour Pb. Nous n’avons établi aucune corrélation entre les métaux lourds présents dans la poussière des salles de classe et l’asthme infantile.Comparativement aux études menées ailleurs, les niveaux maximaux de plomb étaient supérieurs dans notre étude. L’absence de corrélation avec l’asthme infantile pourrait s’expliquer par la masse élevée des particules, qui pourrait les empêcher d’atteindre les voies respiratoires basses. Néanmoins, une attention particulière doit être portée à la réduction des hauts niveaux de métaux lourds présents dans les salles de classe de cette région.

Visualization of amastigotes in lymph nodes, bone marrow, and other tissues samples remains the gold standard method for the diagnosis of visceral leishmaniasis (VL) in humans. This gold standard diagnostic method uses a technically challenging microscopy procedure that is often not accessible in many places in the world where VL is endemic. Here, we report the current systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate whether urine is a reliable clinical sample for diagnosis of human VL. Data were extracted from ten available databases during the period from 2002 to 2017. Overall, 29 articles fulfilled the inclusion criteria and were used for data extraction in this systematic review. Most studies (72.4%) using urine specimens were reported from five countries: India 6 (20.7%), Iran 5 (17.2%), Bangladesh 4 (13.8%), Japan 3 (10.3%) and Spain 3 (10.3%), respectively. The most common diagnostic tests performed on urine were Katex (62.1%), ELISA (24.1%), and the rK39 (17.2%) assays. In meta-analysis the sensitivity and specificity of the three most commonly used diagnostic assays were rK39 (97%; CI: 91-99; 98%;76-100), ELISA (91%; 82-95; 99%; CI: 94-100), and Katex (83%; 73-90; 98%; 98-100), suggesting that the rK39 assay provided the highest sensitivity and the ELISA assay provided the highest specificity for diagnosis of VL from urine samples. Our findings suggest that urine is a valuable clinical sample for the diagnosis of human VL, particularly in areas where the gold standard test for VL is not available.

Previously, we have described a series of azole antifungals namely 3-(1,2,4-triazol-1-yl)flavanones (TFs) containing an N-(phenethyl)azole framework required for sterol 14α-demethylase (CYP51) inhibitory activity. Similar mechanism of action of azoles in fungi and protozoan parasites prompted us to investigate the potential effects of TFs against promastigote and amastigote forms of Leishmania major (L. major), as well as their toxicity against macrophages, apoptosis induction and in silico interactions with the target enzyme. All compounds showed more potent anti-parasitic activity against L. major in comparison with reference azole drug fluconazole and standard antileishmanial agent glucantime. Among the tested compounds, the 4-chloro derivative (TF-2) was found to be the most potent one, being about 13 times more potent than fluconazole against promastigotes. TF-2 decreased both mean infection rate of macrophages (MIR) and mean number of amastigotes per macrophages (MNAPM), significantly more than fluconazole (P

Background and Objective: This study investigates epidemiologic and practical information about the incidence and risk factors of childhood cancer in a population of Southern Iranian children. Materials and Methods: A total number of 300 cancer patients along with 600 age- and gender-matched healthy control were interviewed by a trained physician regarding their demographic characteristics, and major family-associated risk factors, childhood malignancies. Results: The average annual percentage change for cancers in the studied population is calculated as 45%. Our study indicated that possible risk factors which could contribute to the development of childhood cancer are maternal oral contraceptive pill use during pregnancy, exposure to radiation during pregnancy, parental smoking, residence near high voltage electricity lines, exposure to pesticides and fertilizers, patient allergy, contact with domestic animals and father's educational degree. Furthermore, new ecological risk factors such as air pollution due to nonstandard petroleum or toxic inhalant particles, nonhealthy food consumption, and satellite jamming are other predisposing factors. Conclusion: Our study reported a higher average annual percentage change of childhood cancers in our area, compared to the existing literature. In conclusion, detection and prevention of the consistent and possible new environmental risk factors such as nonstandard petroleum or satellite jamming from all around the country should be taking into consideration.

Introduction Transmission of Leishmania through transfusion has been reported from various Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) endemic areas of the world. The true burden of Leishmania infection in blood donors remains generally unknown. Thus, the present systematic review attempted to determine the global prevalence of Leishmania infection among blood donors. Methods Data were extracted through five English and five Persian databases during the period from 1997 to 2016. Overall, 16 articles fulfilled the inclusion criteria and were used for data extraction in this systematic review. Results In total, 13,743 blood donors from different regions of world were examined. The prevalence rate of Leishmania infection according to seropositivity obtained 7% (95%CI: 5%, 8%). The lowest and the highest prevalence were related to Bangladesh 0.25% (95%CI: 0.0%, 1.0%) and Brazil, 16% (95%CI: 12%, 19%). Seroprevalence rate of leishmaniasis among females was more (4.60%) than males. Of 15 studies included in the meta-analysis, the pooled prevalence rate of molecular tests was obtained 2% (95%CI: 1%, 3%) in which Iran and Spain had the lowest and the highest prevalence, 0.05% and 7%, respectively. Our analysis showed that L. infantum was more common than L. donovani as etiological agent of VL among all donors. Conclusion Our data confirms the presence of asymptomatic carriers of VL in endemic areas and supplies as an attentive to the likelihood of these carriers acting as blood donors. Moreover, we conclude that molecular tests for screening in asymptomatic blood donor provide an accurate estimate of the rate of infection over serological tests.

Background: Finding the most appropriate regression model for survival data in cancer casesin order to determine prognosis is an important issue in medical research. Here we compare Cox and parametric regression models regarding survival of children with acute leukemia in southern Iran. Methods: In a retrospective cohort study, information for 197 children with acute leukemia over 6 years was collected through observation and interviews. In order to identify factors affecting their survival, the Cox and parametric (exponential, Weibull, log-logistic, log-normal, Gompertz and generalized gamma) models were fitted to the data. To find the best predictor model, the Akaike’s information criterion (AIC) and the Coxsnell residual were employed. Results: Out of 197 children, 164 (83.3%) had ALL and 33 (16.7%) AML; the mean (± standard deviation) survival time was 52.1±8.10 months. According to both the AIC and the Coxsnell residual, the Cox regression model was the weakest and the log-normal and Weibull models were the best for fitting to data. Based on the log-normal model, age (HR=1.01, p=0.004), residence area (HR=1.60, p=0.038) and WBC (White Blood Cell) (HR=1.57, p=0.014) had significant effects on patient survival. Conclusion: Parametric regression models demonstrate better performance as compared to the Cox model for identifying risk factors for prognosis with acute leukemia data. Just because the assumption of PH (Proportional Hazards) is held for the Cox regression model, we should not ignore parameter models.

Purpose The five-dimension service quality (SERVQUAL) scale is one of the most common tools for evaluating gaps between clients' perceptions and expectations. This study aimed to assess the quality of health services in Iran through a meta-analysis of all Iranian studies which used the SERVQUAL tool. Data sources A systematic literature review has been performed in Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, Iran Medex, Magiran and Scientific Information Database. Study selection All relevant English or Persian studies published between January 2009 and April 2016 were have been selected. Papers were considered if they regarded all five dimensions of the SERVQUAL tool for assessing the quality of health care services. Data extraction Two reviewer independently extracted mean and standard deviation of five dimensions and characteristics of studies. The quality of studies included in meta-analysis using STROBE checklist. Results of data synthesis Of 315 studies initially identified, 12 were included in our meta-analysis. All analyses were performed in Stata MP v. 14. Patients' perceptions were lower than their expectations (gap = -1.64). Responsibility (-1.22) and reliability (-1.15) had the lowest gaps, and tangibility and empathy (-1.03) had the largest gaps. Except gender, other variables had no significant associations with gaps. Patients in the cities of Arak (-3.47) and Shiraz (-3.02) had the largest gaps. Conclusions All dimensions of service quality were negative, which implies that the quality of health services in Iran has not been satisfying to patients and needs to be improved.

The aim of the present study was to determine the seroprevalence of CE among human referring to Health Centers in Mazandaran Province, northern Iran and to identify the risk factors involved in spreading the disease. Between 2013 and 2014, the serum samples were taken randomly from 600 subjects referring to health centers in Mazandaran Province. After obtaining informed consent for each participant, a questionnaire including demographic characteristics and associated risk factors was filled for each individual. Anti-CE antibody was tested by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), using native antigen B. Our results showed 31.6% (n = 190) seropositivity. There were significant difference between seropositivity and sex and residence. Males were significantly more seropositive than females (24.6% versus 7%, P = 0.0001). Regression analysis showed that the subjects who are living in rural areas were 4.4 times more likely to be at risk to CE than urban areas (OR = 4.4; 95% CI = 2.91, 6.64). Contact with dogs, soil and consumed raw vegetables was appeared as main risk factors for CE among community in Mazandaran and it may increase the probability of infection. The high prevalence of CE among individuals indicated that hydatidosis is still a major health problem among community in the investigated areas., Highlights • This article reported new seroprevalence information on the present situation of the human cystic echinococcosis (CE) in Mazandaran Province, northern Iran. • The results indicated the high seroprevalence of CE especially in rural areas. • Our study also shows that consuming of the raw vegetables, contact with dog and soil are as main risk factors for this disease.

Toxoplasmosis, a cosmopolitan parasitic infection caused by Toxoplasma gondii, is frequently found in meat-producing animals and human beings. This review and meta-analysis study was performed to evaluate the overall prevalence of T. gondii infection among sheep and goats in Iran. Data were systematically collected from 1977 to 2012 in Iran on the following electronic databases: PubMed, Google Scholar, Science Direct, Scopus, Web of Science, Magiran, Irandoc, IranMedex, and Scientific Information Database (SID). Additionally, abstracts of national scientific congresses and dissertations were included. A total of 34 articles in field of sheep and 18 articles about goat toxoplasmosis, totalizing to the examination of 14,372 sheep and 3,120 goats, reporting prevalence of toxoplasmosis from different regions of Iran fulfilled our eligibility criteria. The overall prevalence rate of toxoplasmosis in Iran was estimated to be 31 % (95 % confidence interval (CI) = 0.259825 to 0.352382) in sheep and 27 % (95 % CI = 0.140097 to 0.424782) in goats, respectively. There was no significant difference in infection rate between males and females among sheep (odds ratio (OR) = 1.002, 95 % CI = 0.59 to 1.696) and goats (OR = 1.027, 95 % CI = 0.685 to 1.541). Analysis revealed that infection rate in sheep over than 1 year old was 2.4 times more than that in less than 1 year old (OR = 2.396, 95 % CI = 1.050 to 5.467). This systematic review and meta-analysis study revealed that infection is widespread in Iran. Further studies are required to improve strategies for controlling infection among flocks and consequently in human population.

Babesiosis is a protozoal disease caused by Babesia spp. in mammals and humans worldwide. It is one of the most important tick-borne diseases, which affects livestock productions, reproductions, and accordingly failing economy. In this, systematic review and meta-analysis, study, the prevalence of babesiosis among domestic herbivores in Iran, between 1998 and 2015, was methodically reviewed. Nine databases including five English and four Persian databases were explored. A total of 49 articles, as regards the examination of 13,547 sheep, 1920 goats, 7167 cattle, and 940 horses, corresponding to prevalence of babesiosis from different regions of Iran were gathered for our qualifying criteria. The overall prevalence of babesiosis was expected to be 14% (95% CI 12%, 16%) in domestic herbivores. Our results showed the highest prevalence in Khorasan Razavi (18.6%) and West Azarbaijan (15.2%) and the lowest in Mazandaran (8.8%) and Isfahan provinces (9.6%), respectively. The high prevalence of Babesia infection in herbivores (mostly sheep and goats) confirms the established enzootic situation of babesiosis in Iran, particularly in western and northeastern regions of the country. Our data offered important and updated information on the epidemiology of babesiosis, for the first time, in domestic herbivores in Iran, and will likely be contributing to the expansion of the screening and control strategies to reduce health and economic impacts among farm animals.

Leishmaniasis is a protozoan infectious disease widely distributed all around the world. First line drugs including antimoniales are insufficient due to resistance in endemic areas and high toxicity. Azole antifungals like ketoconazole (KCZ) are also used as antileishmanial agents for several decades. In the present study, we evaluated in vitro antileishmanial effects of new azole antifungals namely 3-imidazolylflavanones (IFs) and their oximes (IFOs) against Leishmania major (L. major) parasites. The obtained results showed remarkable effect of our compounds on promastigote and amastigote stages of L. major. In particular, the 4-chloro analog of flavanone (IF-2) and 3-chloro substituted flavanone oxime (IFO-3) with IC50 values ≤8.9 μg/mL were 8-fold more potent than KCZ (IC50 = 72 μg/mL) against promastigote form of L. major. In amastigote stage, the compounds IF-2 and IFO-2 decreased the mean number of infected macrophages (MIR) more than KCZ (p

Objective To evaluate the effect of doxorubicin and its pegylated liposomal formulation (Doxil, Caelyx) on in vitro susceptibility of promastigote and amastigote stages of Leishmania major . Methods Throughout in vitro assays the IC 50 was calculated in the promastigotes and amastigotes forms in J774 macrophage cell line. Also as cytotoxicity in J774 cell line macrophages. Results Doxorubicin and Doxil showed the same activity against promastigote form with IC 50 values of 10.49 μg/mL and 9.63 μg/mL, respectively. Similarly, the amastigote stage was susceptible at concentration of at least 1 μg/mL when compared to positive control ( P 50 concentrations. Conclusions Our findings demonstrated the efficacy of both doxorubicin and its pegylated liposomal formulation on L. major at low concentrations. Further researches are needed for evaluating the safety of drugs in animal model particularly as topical formulation.

There has been a considerable interest in the potential therapeutic value of dietary supplementation with ω-3 fatty acids in patients with asthma.This cross-sectional study was designed to identify the effect of ω-3 fatty acids on symptom score, pulmonary function and serum T-helper cytokine concentrations in children with mild to moderate persistent asthma.A total of 39 patients among 50 volunteers completed this 3-month study. They took a soft gel capsule containing 180mg EPA and 120mg DHA daily. Pulmonary function was evaluated in 28 eligible patients by spirometry, and serum levels of Th1, Th2, Th9, Th17 and Th22 cytokines were measured by multiplex cytometric bead assay before and after treatment.After treatment with ω-3, symptom score improved in 28 (72%) patients. The results of spirometry showed remarkable improvement in FEV1/FVC (P=0.044) and PEF (P0.0001) after treatment, but considering a cut-off of 80%, real improvement was observed in 32% of patients with PEF80% which raised above the cut-off after ω-3 treatment (P=0.004) whereas, FEV1/FVC changes were above the cut-off value in 89% of the patients. After treatment, IL-17A and TNF-α levels decreased significantly (both P=0.049).Oral administration of natural anti-inflammatory products such as ω-3 is a promising complementary approach to managing asthma.

Background: The safety of rehabilitation centers is of great importance to ensure thewell-being of patients. The present study aimed to determine non-structural and functionalvulnerability of state rehabilitation centers of Tehran City welfare organization in disastersusing national standard instruments in 2014. Materials and Methods: This study has a descriptive and cross-sectional design. A totalof 17 rehabilitation centers affiliated with Tehran welfare organization are investigated. Thevulnerability of centers was measured using 2 checklists of non-structural and functionalvulnerability of the World Health Organization. The reliabilities of the non-structural andfunctional vulnerability instuments were 0.79 and 0.91, respectively, using the Cronbach α.The data were collected through observation and interview with authorities of centers and theirstaffs. The data analysis was performed through descriptive statistics and 1-sample t-test usingSPSS 16. Results: Among 17 rehabilitation centers, the mean functional safety of 11 centers (64.7%)was high and showed low vulnerability and safety of 6 centers (35.3%) was average andshowed average vulnerability. With regard to non-structural safety level, 9 centers (53% ofcenters) had high safety level and showed low vulnerability. Eight centers (47% of centers) had average safety level and showed average vulnerability. The results of 1-sample t test showedthat at the significance level of 0.05, there was no significant difference between functional andnon-structural safety of centers. Conclusion: The functional and non-structural safety of state rehabilitation centers of Tehranwelfare organization was above average and vulnerability of centers to disaster was average,too. We suggest that the required planning be performed to improve non-structural andfunctional safety quality of centers and reduce their vulnerability.

Background and objective: Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs) have recently been applied in situations where an analysis based on the logistic regression (LR) is a standard statistical approach; direct comparisons of the results, however, are seldom attempted. In this study, we compared both logistic regression models and feed-forward neural networks on the academic failure data set. Methods: The data for this study included 18 questions about study situation of 275 undergraduate students selected randomly from among nursing and midwifery and paramedic schools of Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences in 2013. Logistic regression with forward method and feed forward Artificial Neural Network with 15 neurons in hidden layer were fitted to the dataset. The accuracy of the models in predicting academic failure was compared by using ROC (Receiver Operating Characteristic) and classification accuracy. Results: Among nine ANNs, the ANN with 15 neurons in hidden layer was a better ANN compared with LR. The Area Under Receiver Operating Characteristics (AUROC) of the LR model and ANN with 15 neurons in hidden layers, were estimated as 0.55 and 0.89, respectively and ANN was significantly greater than the LR. The LR and ANN models respectively classified 77.5% and 84.3% of the students correctly. Conclusion: Based on this dataset, it seems the classification of the students in two groups with and without academic failure by using ANN with 15 neurons in the hidden layer is better than the LR model.

Hyperbilirubinemia is a common neonatal problem. The present study aimed to investigate the effect of ursodeoxycholic acid in reducing indirect hyperbilirubinemia of infants under phototherapy.This double-blind randomized clinical trial was conducted on neonates with jaundice, who had received phototherapy in the hospitals affiliated with the Shiraz University of Medical Sciences in 2013. A total of 80 neonates were enrolled in the study and were randomly divided into 2 groups. The intervention group (n = 0) with indirect hyperbilirubinemia received 10 mg · kg(-1) · day(-1) divided every 12 hours Ursobil (capsule 300 mg) in addition to phototherapy, whereas the control group (n = 0) received only phototherapy. Total bilirubin levels were measured every 12 hours until reaching10 mg/dL, and then phototherapy was disrupted. The duration of phototherapy was measured. The 2 groups were compared regarding total bilirubin levels at different time points and duration of phototherapy using the generalized estimating equation (GEE) test.The mean of total bilirubin in the intervention group was 12 ± 1.6, 10 ± 1.1, and 9.8 ± 0.2 mg/dL 12, 24, and 48 hours after the beginning of phototherapy, respectively. On the contrary, these measures were 14.4 ± 1.3, 12.5 ± 1.4, and 10.1 ± 1.1 mg/dL in the control group, respectively, (P0.05). The mean time required for phototherapy to decrease the bilirubin level to10 mg/dL was 15.5 ± 6 and 44.6 ± 13.3 hours in the case and the control group, respectively, (P = 0.001).Ursodeoxycholic acid had additive effect with phototherapy in neonates with indirect hyperbilirubinemia. This drug also reduced the time period needed for phototherapy and, consequently, decreased the hospitalization period.

Toxoplasma gondii is a cosmopolitan zoonotic intracellular coccidian of the phylum Apicomplexa infecting warm-blooded animals and human beings. This protozoan causes a significant public health problem in humans and imposes considerable economic losses and damages to husbandry industries. The final host, cats, accounts for all of these significant burdens. Hence the present study was designed to analyse and review the overall prevalence rate of T. gondii infection in cats in Iran for the first time. In the present study data collection (published and unpublished papers, abstracts of proceedings of national parasitology congresses and dissertations) was systematically undertaken on electronic databases including PubMed, Google Scholar, Ebsco, Science Direct, Scopus, Magiran, Irandoc, IranMedex and Scientific Information Database. A total of 21 studies from 1975 to 2013 reporting prevalence of Toxoplasma infection in cats from different areas in Iran met the eligibility criteria. The pooled proportion of toxoplasmosis using the random-effect model amongst cats was estimated at 33.6% (95% confidence interval [CI] 22.05–46.41). The prevalence rate of cat toxoplasmosis in various regions of Iran ranged from 1.2% to 89.2%. Firstly, this study establishes a crude prevalence rate of T. gondii infection in cats. Secondly, it discusses the role of significant risk factors including sex, age and being either household or stray cats, in the epidemiology of the disease. Furthermore, the current study determines gaps and drawbacks in the prior studies that are useful to keep in mind to assist in designing more accurate investigations in future.

Background: The aim of present study was to evaluate antileishmanial effects of Lavandula angustifolia (L. angustifolia) and Rosmarinus officinalis (R. officinalis) medicinal plants essential oils and nano-emulsions on Leishmania major (L. major). Methods: The present study was performed in Leishmaniasis Reference Lab at Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Iran during 2016-2017. The IC50 values were calculated in both the promastigote and amastigote stages in J774 macrophage in comparison with meglumine antimoniate (MA) as positive control. In addition, cytotoxicity effects of essential oils and nano-emulsions prepared from both plants against macrophages were evaluated. Results: Both essential oil and nano-emulsion of Lavander and Rosemary showed anti-leishmania activity on promastigote with IC50=0.11 μl/mL, IC50=0.26 μl/mL, and IC50=0.08 μl/mL respectively. Moreover, during amastigote assay, Lavander and Rosemary essential oils and nano-emulsion were effective at least in concentration of 0.12 μl/mL and 0.06 µl/mL (P=0.0001) respectively, on mean infected macrophages (MIR) and amastigotes in macrophages (P=0.0001). Additionally, cytotoxicity assay against macrophage revealed no toxicity on the host cells at IC50 concentrations. Conclusion: The nano-emulsions of both plants were more effective than essential oil in both MIR and amastigote. However, in comparison with MA, the Lavander essential oil is more effective in reducing MIR. Rosemary nano-emulsion reduced MIR significantly more than MA in concentration of 0.25 μl/mL (P