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Background: In recent studies on adolescents, increasing attention is being given to the social dimension of health, alongside its physical and mental aspects. Objectives: The present study was conducted to determine the effectiveness of emotional schema therapy on social health and attitude towards social harms of female students. Method: The current research is a semi-experimental study with a pre-test, and post-test design involving a control group and a two-month follow-up. The focus of this research was on female students who were enrolled at Honarestans in Shahin Shahr during 2022. Thirty students through a convenience sampling method were selected. Subsequently, using a random dice roll participants were allocated at random to either the experimental (n=15) or the control group (n=15). The emotional schema therapy group participated in 8 one-hour and a half session (one session per week). The research tools used were the attitude towards social harms questionnaire and the social well-being questionnaire. The data was analyzed using a repeated measures analysis of covariance with SPSS software version 28. Results: Repeated measures analysis showed significant group-by-time interactions for attitudes toward social harm (F=22.98, P

Abstract In this study, a series of experiments are done to analyze the effect of bluff body geometry on the NOx reduction of a natural gas-air stratified swirl burner. The stratified burner of Cambridge University is chosen to study the mentioned geometrical effect, and the geometry modification of bluff body is used as a simple method for NOx reduction, which can be easily applied to the systems using these burners, including gas turbines. The bluff body geometrical change to an annular bluff body is inspired by the fact that the areas in which the edge of the bluff body is in contact with the unburned flow have lower temperatures, which can drastically affect combustion parameters, especially emissions. This new geometry is called the Annular Bluff body Stratified Burner, ABSB. The comparison of the mentioned burners is made for three equivalence ratios, Ф, stratification cases: premixed, moderately stratified, and highly stratified with a global equivalence ratio of 0.75, in the conditions of atmospheric pressure and the temperature of the inlet mixture of 26 degrees of Celsius. Flame spectroscopy compares the chemiluminescence intensities of OH*, CH*, C2*, H2O*, and CO2*. Digital image processing, flame edge detection, and exhaust gas analysis are also utilized to measure flames’ general dimensions and emissions. According to experiments, for ABSB cases, a general decrease of about 14% in Nitrogen Oxides, especially NO and NO2, and an increase of about 17% in Carbon Monoxide are observed. Besides, the average bluff body temperature dropped by about 20% in ABSB for all three stratification cases.

Abstract Background Despite the presence of evidence that establishes a strong correlation between oxidative stress and thyroid cancer, there exists a scarcity of research that investigates the specific role of glutathione as an important antioxidant in this particular context. The objective of this study was to assess the altered balance of oxidative stress in cases of thyroid cancer, which includes both papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) and micro PTC (mPTC), by examining and comparing the total antioxidant capacity (TAC), total oxidant status (TOS), oxidative stress index (OSI), reduced glutathione (GSH), oxidized glutathione (GSSG), and GSSG/GSH ratio with those of individuals diagnosed with multinodular goiter (MNG) as well as Healthy subjects. Materials and methods Plasma samples were collected from 92 patients (23 mPTC, 23 PTC, 23 MNG, 23 Healthy). The levels of TAC, TOS, GSH, and GSSG were measured using a commercial assay kits, and the OSI and GSSG/GSH ratio were calculated for each sample. Statistical analyses were performed to compare the oxidative stress between the groups. Results The plasma levels of TOS were significantly higher in the mPTC, PTC, and MNG groups compared to the Healthy individuals (p

Abstract Fusobacterium nucleatum, (F. nucleatum) as a known factor in inducing oncogenic, invasive, and inflammatory responses, can lead to an increase in the incidence and progression of colorectal cancer (CRC). Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF) are also one of the key components of the tumor microenvironment (TME), which lead to resistance to treatment, metastasis, and disease recurrence with their markers, secretions, and functions. This study aimed to investigate the effect of F. nucleatum on the invasive phenotype and function of fibroblast cells isolated from normal and cancerous colorectal tissue. F. nucleatum bacteria were isolated from deep periodontal pockets and confirmed by various tests. CAF cells from tumor tissue and normal fibroblasts (NF) from a distance of 10 cm of tumor tissue were isolated from 5 patients by the explant method and were exposed to secretions and ghosts of F. nucleatum. The expression level of two markers, fibroblast activation protein (FAP), and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), and the amount of production of two cytokines TGF-β and IL-6 from fibroblast cells were measured by flow cytometry and ELISA test, respectively before and after exposure to different bacterial components. The expression of the FAP marker was significantly higher in CAF cells compared to NF cells (P

Abstract Breast cancer is a highly prevalent malignancy that affects a significant number of women around the world. This is the leading cause of cancer‐related mortality among women. Various therapeutic approaches have been introduced to fight against it, including surgery, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, chemotherapy, and biological therapies. However, attention to research and the development of innovative therapeutic interventions to reduce toxicity and increase treatment efficacy is always ongoing. As a novel method of treatment, gene therapy for modifying inappropriate genes and treating various types of cancer has gained attention. The Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR) technology is a significant advancement in genetic editing that has gained widespread use in human cancer research and gene therapy. It is highly valued for its precision, specificity, cost‐effectiveness, and time‐saving properties with minimal risk. Our review focuses on CRISPR/Cas9's role as a targeted therapeutic approach for enhancing immunotherapy and overcoming drug resistance in breast cancer.

Abstract The CRISPR system is a revolutionary genome editing tool that has the potential to revolutionize the field of cancer research and therapy. The ability to precisely target and edit specific genetic mutations that drive the growth and spread of tumors has opened up new possibilities for the development of more effective and personalized cancer treatments. In this review, we will discuss the different CRISPR-based strategies that have been proposed for cancer therapy, including inactivating genes that drive tumor growth, enhancing the immune response to cancer cells, repairing genetic mutations that cause cancer, and delivering cancer-killing molecules directly to tumor cells. We will also summarize the current state of preclinical studies and clinical trials of CRISPR-based cancer therapy, highlighting the most promising results and the challenges that still need to be overcome. Safety and delivery are also important challenges for CRISPR-based cancer therapy to become a viable clinical option. We will discuss the challenges and limitations that need to be overcome, such as off-target effects, safety, and delivery to the tumor site. Finally, we will provide an overview of the current challenges and opportunities in the field of CRISPR-based cancer therapy and discuss future directions for research and development. The CRISPR system has the potential to change the landscape of cancer research, and this review aims to provide an overview of the current state of the field and the challenges that need to be overcome to realize this potential.

Abstract Background There is an increased interest in identifying practical and accurate biomarkers for fluoride exposure. Due to the narrow ‘dose-gap’ between the benefit of caries reduction and the risk of dental fluorosis, monitoring of fluoride exposure is vital when introducing any fluoridation programme for the prevention of dental caries. This scoping review aimed to ascertain the nature and extent of the available evidence on how spot urine and nail clippings are used to measure fluoride intake/exposure, by using a unique approach of mapping the studies according to population, setting, type of study design, methodology and analytical approach in community prevention programmes. Methods Multiple relevant databases were searched up to July 2021 for any study designs, including randomised controlled studies, quasi-experimental studies, surveys, retrospective and prospective cohort studies, case studies, phenomenological studies, and expert opinions. Results The search retrieved 9,222 studies of which 155 met the inclusion criteria. A high proportion of the studies (25.2%) originated from Latin America and the Caribbean continent subregion. However, per country, China recorded the highest number, followed by India and Mexico. The majority (62.6%) employed a cross-sectional study design, and 65.8% combined participants from different age groups. Of the included studies, 82.6% used spot urine samples as a biomarker for assessing fluoride intake/exposure. Water fluoride concentration was reported in 66.5% of the studies with 46.6% of all included studies reporting a water fluoride concentration of > 1.2 mg/L. The methods used in assessing oral hygiene and dietary intake were not reported in 72.3% and 71.0% of the included studies, respectively. Only 35.5% of the included studies assessed the relationship between fluoride exposure and excretion. Conclusions This review revealed a large variability in the way in which spot urine samples and/or nail clippings are used to measure fluoride exposure in different settings and situations. Particularly, there are inconsistencies in the methodologies and the analytical approaches used in assessing fluoride exposure. Therefore, there is a need for more rigorous primary research studies using standardised approaches to determine the suitability of spot urine samples and nail clipping as biomarkers for monitoring fluoride exposure.

Abstract Purpose of study Massage is widely used as a traditional technique during labor and delivery. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of Swedish massage with and without chamomile oil on delivery outcomes. Methods The present study was a randomized clinical trial on 154 primiparous pregnant women who were selected by random sampling method and divided into 3 groups: massage with chamomile oil (n = 53), massage without chamomile oil (n = 51), and control group (n = 50). Data collection tools included demographic and delivery information questionnaire, Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), maternal satisfaction with delivery scale, and Partograph form. In the two intervention groups, Swedish massage techniques (i.e., Effleurage, Petrissage, Vibration, and Superficial stroke) were performed with and without the use of chamomile oil since the active phase of labor (5 cm dilatation), while the control group received only routine labor care during labor. Results Swedish massage with chamomile oil significantly reduced the labor pain score, reduced the length of active phase and the second stage of labor, and increased the score of maternal satisfaction with the labor process (P

Due to the increased prevalence of third molar impaction and the complications and existence of disagreements regarding the predicting factors for the impaction of this tooth, the aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between the position of the mandibular third molar with different vertical skeletal dimensions on the panoramic images.Materials & Methods:This cross sectional study was carried out on lateral cephalogram and orthopantomogram records of 130 orthodontic patients visiting to Isfahan (Khorasgan) University Dental School. Age range of the sample was 20-35 years. Various facial forms were determined with mandibular plane angle (SN-GoGn), jarabak index and Y-axis; S-GN–Frankfort plane. Beta angle; which is the angle between intersecting long axis of mandibular second molar and mandibular third molar was measured to determine the angle of eruption of mandibular third molar. Eruption pattern was classified as per Pell & Gregory and winter’s system. The data were analyzed by Chi-square test (p value < 0.05).Results:There was a significant difference in the frequency distribution of growth pattern on the left side of the jaw (p value = 0.048). There was no significant difference in the frequency distribution of the eruption pattern in the right side of the jaw (p value = 0.11).There was no significant difference in the frequency distribution of eruption surface in the right face between different facial forms (p value = 0.49) But on the left side of the jaw there was a significant difference between the three facial forms (p value = 0.049). Frequency distribution of mandibular third molar impaction was significantly different between the three facial forms (p value = 0.03). There was no significant difference between the three facial forms in terms of frequency of eruption angle in the right side of the jaw (p value = 0.25) and also in the left side of the jaw (p value = 0.15).Conclusion:The incidence of impaction was significantly more in patients with long face than in other two groups. The prevalence of surface and pattern of third molar eruption in only one side of jaw was significantly different between the three facial forms. There was no significant difference between the frequency of angle of eruption and facial skeletal types in both jaws

Mobile phones utilize multiple technologies in order to provide services for users. USSD, is one of the most used technologies, which has been used by mobile phone users in recent years. The aim of this paper is to analyze evolution of its development and application in Iran from 2011 to 2021 by an institutional approach. Moreover, this study includes analysis on how institutional players influenced USSD technology development and utilization. Findings are categorized into four periods of introduction to the market, growth through the market, limitations and challenges, and stagnation. Each period is analyzed from practical, policy, business, economic and political aspects. To collect data, 10 experts were interviewed. Besides, documents, reports, events, media news, rules and regulations related to the USSD were analyzed. Findings indicate that over the first and second period, institutions and players have positive impact on scaling up the application of technology in the market. However, in the subsequent periods, USSD technology negatively affected by central bank restrictive regulations and reorientation of banking and payment service providers, resulting from a new powerful alternative namely mobile internet. Findings also present policy suggestions and implications for policy-making on how face new technologies as well as future research avenues for policy researchers.

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a viral infection that, if does not go away, can cause health problems like genital warts and cancer. The national immunization schedules for individuals before sexual debut, significantly decreased HPV-associated mortality and it will be affordable. However, immunization programs remain vulnerable to macroeconomic factors such as inflation, fiscal policy, employment levels, and national income. This review aims to investigate the association between national income in lower-middle-income countries to explore recent advances and potential issues, as well as how to deal with challenges.

Abstract Aims/Introduction To examine the incidence rate of severe non‐proliferative and proliferative diabetic retinopathy (severe‐NPDR/PDR) and determine its potential risk factors. Materials and Methods The study consisted of 1,169 participants (675 women) with type 2 diabetes mellitus, aged ≥20 years. A trained interviewer collected information about the history of pan‐retinal photocoagulation as a result of diabetic retinopathy. Multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression models were applied. Results We found 187 cases (126 women) of severe‐NPDR/PDR during a median follow‐up period of 12.7 years; the corresponding incidence rate was 13.6 per 1,000 person‐years. Being overweight (hazard ratio [HR], 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.60, 0.39–0.92) and obese (HR 0.48, 95% CI 0.27–0.83) were associated with lower risk, whereas being smoker (HR 1.75, 95% CI 1.12–2.74), having fasting plasma glucose levels 7.22–10.0 mmol/L (HR 2.81, 95% CI 1.70–4.62), fasting plasma glucose ≥10 mmol/L (HR 5.87, 95% CI 3.67–9.41), taking glucose‐lowering medications (HR 2.58, 95% CI 1.87–3.56), prehypertension status (HR 1.65, 95% CI 1.05–2.58) and newly diagnosed hypertension (HR 1.96, 95% CI 1.06–3.65) increased the risk of severe‐NPDR/PDR. Among newly diagnosed diabetes patients, being male was associated with a 59% lower risk of severe‐NPDR/PDR (HR 0.41, 95% CI 0.21–0.79). Furthermore, patients who had an intermediate level of education (6–12 years) had a higher risk of developing PDR (HR 1.86, 95% CI 1.05–3.30) compared with those who had

Background: The protective role of vitamin D in the occurrence of breast cancer is nowadays a controversial matter. Based on conflicting results of the studies in this field and also considering the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in Iranian women, this work was conducted to evaluate the association between vitamin D and breast cancer. Method: This matched case-control study was conducted on 70 newly diagnosed breast cancer patients and 70 controls with the same age, menopause status, and time of blood sampling in Zanjan. Information regarding demographic, reproductive, history of diseases, medication, use of dairy products, and sunlight exposure was collected using a questionnaire. The serum level of vitamin D was measured with ELISA method. The data were analyzed utilizing chi-square test, independent t-test, and odds ratios using conditional logistic regression model. Results: The mean level of vitamin D was 39.04 and 63.34 ng/ml in the cases and controls, respectively (P=0.046). The proportion of the cases in the highest quartile of vitamin D was significantly smaller than that in the controls compared with the lowest quartile (Ptrend=0.028). Using conditional logistic regression model, an inverse and independent association was observed between vitamin D and breast cancer after controlling main confounders. The risk of breast cancer was independently associated with body mass index and low income. Conclusion: In this study, an inverse association was confirmed between vitamin D and breast cancer. Prospective intervention studies should be performed to explore its role in the prevention of breast cancer.

The tumor microenvironment (TME) is a significant contributor to cancer progression containing complex connections between cellular and chemical components and provides a suitable substrate for tumor growth and development. Growing evidence shows targeting tumor cells while ignoring the surrounding TME is not effective enough to overcome the cancer disease. Fibroblasts are essential sentinels of the stroma that due to certain conditions in TME, such as oxidative stress and local hypoxia, become activated, and play the prominent role in the physical support of tumor cells and the enhancement of tumorigenesis. Activated fibroblasts in TME, defined as cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), play a crucial role in regulating the biological behavior of tumors, such as tumor metastasis and drug resistance. CAFs are highly heterogeneous populations that have different origins and, in addition to their role in supporting stromal cells, have multiple immunosuppressive functions via a membrane and secretory patterns. The secretion of different cytokines/chemokines, interactions that mediate the recruitment of regulatory immune cells and the reprogramming of an immunosuppressive function in immature myeloid cells are just a few examples of how CAFs contribute to the immune escape of tumors through various direct and indirect mechanisms on specific immune cell populations. Moreover, CAFs directly abolish the role of cytotoxic lymphocytes. The activation and overexpression of inhibitory immune checkpoints (iICPs) or their ligands in TME compartments are one of the main regulatory mechanisms that inactivate tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes in cancer lesions. CAFs are also essential players in the induction or expression of iICPs and the suppression of immune response in TME. Based on available studies, CAF subsets could modulate immune cell function in TME through iICPs in two ways; direct expression of iICPs by activated CAFs and indirect induction by production soluble and then upregulation of iICPs in TME. With a focus on CAFs’ direct and indirect roles in the induction of iICPs in TME as well as their use in immunotherapy and diagnostics, we present the evolving understanding of the immunosuppressive mechanism of CAFs in TME in this review. Understanding the complete picture of CAFs will help develop new strategies to improve precision cancer therapy.

Introduction: Thrombophilia genes are frequently reported to be major risk factors in the development of cardiovascular disease, thromboembolism and more importantly of pregnancy abortion. The study was conducted to investigate the prevalence rate of thrombophilia polymorphisms in Iranian women. Methods: 591 women had miscarriage and infertility disorders who were referred to a private pathobiology laboratory in Tehran, Iran. The subjects were evaluated for single nucleotide polymorphisms using PCR-RFLP procedure during February 2013 to May 2016. Current method was validated and verified for specificity, sensitivity and accuracy by approved and known mutations controls and bioinformatics software’s. ResultsAt present study, homozygosity of prothrombin (AA), leiden (AA) and HPA-1 (TT) were not diagnosed. Among these genotypes, occurrence of FII (Wild type-GG and heterozygous-GA) was highest and lowest rate as 96.3% and 3.7%, respectively. The MTHFR 1298 A>C (AC and CC) had the highest frequency (296 subjects) comparison with the other ones. Outcomes frequency rates (%) of heterozygosity PAI-1, MTHFR1298, MTHFR677, Factor XIII, HPA-1, β-Fibrinogen, Factor V Leiden and Prothrombin were 72.6 %, 70%, 40.5%, 29.4%, 25.5%, 20%, 4.4% and 3.7%, respectively. Conclusion: Heterozygosity prevalence rate of PAI-1, MTHFR1298 and MTHFR677 are the most common in women. It would appear thrombophilia genes should be considered in preventive strategies particularly in coagulopathy and miscarriage disorders.

Background and Aims. Primiparous women experience high levels of anxiety before cesarean section. Therefore, this research aimed to investigate the effects of the Benson Relaxation Technique (BRT) and Music Therapy (MT) on the anxiety of primiparous women prior to cesarean section. Methods. A randomized controlled trial was carried out on 105 women scheduled for cesarean section. They were randomly assigned into three groups: BRT, MT, and control (n = 35 per group). The women in the BRT and MT groups performed exercises and listened to music, respectively, for 20 minutes prior to cesarean section. The State Anxiety Inventory was used to measure the women’s anxiety in the groups before and after the intervention. Results. Within-group comparisons showed that the women in the BRT (t = 5.61, p

Purpose: Vitamin D deficiency may be a main causative agent in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia (PE). The actions of the active form of vitamin D are mediated via the vitamin D receptor (VDR), which is expressed in numerous organs including placenta. Therefore, we evaluated the potential relationship between maternal and placental VDR polymorphisms and the predisposition to PE in an Iranian population. Methods: This case–control study surveyed 152 PE and 160 normotensive pregnant women. The polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) method was performed to examine the maternal and placental VDR Fok1 rs2228570, Bsm1 rs1544410, Taq1 rs731236, and Apa1 rs7975232 polymorphisms. Results: The maternal but not placental VDR FokI Ff genotype, was significantly lower in PE women (P = .02 and P = .06, respectively). The maternal and placental VDR FokI polymorphism was associated with lower PE risk in the dominant model (Ff+ff vs. FF) and these genotypes could decrease PE risk (OR, 0.5 [95% CI, 0.3–0.8], P = .007 and OR, 0.5 [95% CI, 0.3–0.9], P = .02, respectively). The haplotype analysis revealed that the maternal and placental TABf haplotype may lead to decreased risk of PE. In addition, the placental TABF haplotype was associated with higher risk of PE. No relationship was observed between PE susceptibility and the maternal and placental VDR Bsm1, Taq1 and Apa1 polymorphisms. There was also no relationship between the maternal and placental VDR polymorphisms and PE severity. Conclusions: the maternal and placental VDR FokI variant was associated with decreased risk of PE in the dominant model.

Abstract Background Influenza A virus (IAV) is still a major health threat. The clinical manifestations of this infection are related to immune dysregulation, which causes morbidity and mortality. The usage of traditional medication with immunomodulatory properties against influenza infection has been increased recently. Our previous study showed antiviral activity of quercetin-3-O-α-L-rhamnopyranoside (Q3R) isolated from Rapanea melanophloeos (RM) (L.) Mez (family Myrsinaceae) against H1N1 (A/PR/8/34) infection. This study aimed to confirm the wider range of immunomodulatory effect of Q3R on selective pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines against IAV in vitro, to evaluate the effect of Q3R on apoptosis pathway in combination with H1N1, also to assess the physical interaction of Q3R with virus glycoproteins and RhoA protein using computational docking. Methods MDCK cells were exposed to Q3R and 100CCID50/100 μl of H1N1 in combined treatments (co-, pre- and post-penetration treatments). The treatments were tested for the cytokines evaluation at RNA and protein levels by qPCR and ELISA, respectively. In another set of treatment, apoptosis was examined by detecting RhoA GTPase protein and caspase-3 activity. Molecular docking was used as a tool for evaluation of the potential anti-influenza activity of Q3R. Results The expressions of cytokines in both genome and protein levels were significantly affected by Q3R treatment. It was shown that Q3R was much more effective against influenza when it was applied in co-penetration treatment. Q3R in combination with H1N1 increased caspase-3 activity while decreasing RhoA activation. The molecular docking results showed strong binding ability of Q3R with M2 transmembrane, Neuraminidase of 2009 pandemic H1N1, N1 and H1 of PR/8/1934 and Human RhoA proteins, with docking energy of − 10.81, − 10.47, − 9.52, − 9.24 and − 8.78 Kcal/mol, respectively. Conclusions Quercetin-3-O-α-L-rhamnopyranoside from RM was significantly effective against influenza infection by immunomodulatory properties, affecting the apoptosis pathway and binding ability to viral receptors M2 transmembrane and Neuraminidase of 2009 pandemic H1N1 and human RhoA cellular protein. Further research will focus on detecting the detailed specific mechanism of Q3R in virus-host interactions.

Triclosan (5-chloro-2-(2,4-dichlorophenoxy)phenol; TCS) is a broad-spectrum antibacterial commonly used in cosmetics, dentifrices, soap, and other consumer products. There is growing concern that estrogenic environmental compounds that act as endocrine disrupting chemicals might potentially have adverse effects on hormone-sensitive organs such as the breast. Overexpression of miR-221/222 has been observed in a number of advanced malignancies indicating that miR-221/222 could be potential therapeutic targets for epithelial cancer. In present study we investigated TCS effects on miR-221/222 expression level in breast cancer cell line MCF-7.In this experimental study, we detect the expression of miR-221 and miR-222 in MCF-7 through the quantificational real time polymerase chain reaction (QRT PCR) assay. Our results showed that the expression level of miR-221 was induced by TCS and expression level of miR-222 inhibited by TCS.Overall, phytoestrogens and TCS may act as an estrogen receptor agonist at lower concentrations via estrogen pathway (ER) while inhibiting the growth of MCF-7 cells at higher concentrations via non-ER pathways

Ghar-e-Dagh (Nitraria schoberi) is a native perennial plant profoundly resistant to salinity and drought. This plant, having a well-developed deep rooting system can act as sand dunes stabilization agent and also, due to its special alkaloids may perform a very significant role in pharmaceutical industries. Considering the importance of genetic engineering as a novel method to generate genetic variation in practicing precise and purposeful breeding of plants in terms of increasing their resistance against biotic and abiotic stresses and also, to increase the production of specific secondary metabolites, the present investigation was performed as a prerequisite of any transformation. In this research, the issues of pre-culture time, co-culture time, acetosyringone and kanamycin concentrations were investigated. The results obtained suggest that the interaction of pre-culture and co-culture times and also, acetosyringone concentration is significant at 1% probability level. The mean comparisons also showed that the maximum transformation rate was gained in 48 hours pre-culture time, at 100 µM acetosyringone density and 72 hours co-culture. The ultimate confirmation of β- glucuronidase (GUS) gene presence in transgenic plants was performed by performing polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and reverse transcription PCR (RT-PCR) and histochemical assay. The method presented here can be used for further genetic engineering purposes of N. schoberi.

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of noncoding small RNAs which regulate gene expression through post-transcriptional repression or degradation of messenger RNA. They play very important roles in various biological processes including growth, differentiation, and proliferation, as well as apoptosis, angiogenesis, and metabolism. Therefore, in the present study, we evaluated the possible effect of functional rs7372209C/T polymorphism in the 5ˊ- region of pri-miRNA- 26a1gene on preeclampsia(PE) susceptibility. This case-control study was conducted on 219 PE women and 204 unrelated healthy controls. The amplification refractory mutation system-polymerase chain reaction method was used for rs7372209C/T genotyping. The pri-miRNA- 26a1 rs7372209CT genotype was associated with decreased PE risk (OR, 0.5 [95% CI, 0.3–0.8], P = 0.001). The frequency of rs7372209TT genotype did not differ between two groups. In addition, the pri-miRNA- 26a1 rs7372209 polymorphism was associated with lower risk of PE in dominant model (CT+TT vs CC) (OR, 0.5 [95% CI, 0.4–0.8], P = 0.002). Although there was no significant difference between mild and severe PE women according to rs7372209CT genotype, the differences between mild and severe PE groups with controls remained significant. The frequency of pri-miRNA-26a1 rs7372209CT genotype was not different between late-onset PE and early onset PE groups. The present study showed for the first time that the pri-miRNA- 26a1 rs7372209 polymorphism was associated with lower risk of mild and severe PE in the dominant model and this polymorphism could be a protective factor for PE susceptibility.

Purpose: PE is a pregnancy-specific complication, which genetic and epigenetic factors play key roles in its pathogenesis. DNA methylation is a main epigenetic alteration with important roles in gene regulation. Micro RNAs (miRNAs) as another member of epigenetic machinery regulate the gene expression and involve in different biological pathways including apoptosis and placental development. Therefore, the present study performed to assess the association between miRNA-34a promoter methylation and PE susceptibility. Methods: The placenta of 104 PE pregnant women and 119 normotensive pregnant women were collected after delivery. The methylation status of the miRNA-34a promoter was assessed using Methylation Specific PCR (MSP). Results: The frequency of the hemi-methylated (MU) miR-34a promoter was significantly lower in PE women compared to the controls (17.3 vs. 29.4%) (OR, 0.45 [95% CI, 0.2–0.9], P = 0.016). The overall methylation rate was 23.1% in PE women and 41.2% in the control group and was significantly lower in PE women (OR, 0.4 [95% CI, 0.2–0.8], P = 0.004). The frequency of hemi-methylated (MU) and overall methylated (MU+MM) promoter of miR-34a gene was significantly lower in severe PE but not in mild PE women compared to the controls [(OR, 0.3 [95% CI, 0.1–0.8], P = 0.02) and (OR, 0.3 [95% CI, 0.1–0.7], P = 0.009), respectively]. There was an association between hemi-methylated (MU) and overall methylated (MU+MM) promoter and late onset PE [(OR, 0.4 [95% CI, 0.2–0.9], P = 0.03) and (OR, 0.4 [95% CI, 0.2–0.8], P = 0.01), respectively]. Conclusions: An association was found between hypo-methylation of the miR-34a promoter and PE and PE severity.

Purpose: Drosha is a member of the micro RNA (miRNA) processing machinery that affects miRNA processing. Single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the Drosha gene might affect microRNA processing and the expression of various genes. The aim of this study is to investigate the association between SNPs in the Drosha gene and preeclampsia (PE) in the southeast of Iran. Methods: Genotyping of Drosha rs10719 and rs6877842 was performed using blood samples from 219 PE women and 205 healthy control subjects by a polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism method. Results: The Drosha rs10719TC genotype was significantly associated with 1.6-fold higher risk of PE (odds ratio (OR, 1.6 [95% CI, 1.1–2.4], P = 0.026). In addition, the frequency of the Drosha rs10719CC genotype was significantly higher in PE women and was associated with threefold higher risk of PE (OR 3 [95% CI 1.4–6.3], P = 0.004). There was no association between the Drosha rs6877842 polymorphism and PE susceptibility. The CC–GG combined genotype was associated with 3.4-fold higher risk of PE (OR 3.4 [95% CI 1.4–8.1], P = 0.007). The haplotype-based association analysis showed higher frequency of C–G haplotype of Drosha rs10719 and rs6877842 polymorphisms with the increased risk of PE 1.5-fold (OR 1.5 [95% CI 1.1 – 2], P = 0.01). Conclusions: The Drosha rs10719TC and CC genotypes were associated with PE risk. The CC–GG combined genotype and C–G haplotype of Drosha rs10719 and rs6877842 polymorphisms may increase PE susceptibility.

Background: Pulicaria gnaphalodes, Ducrosia anethifolia, Trachyspermum copticum, Foeniculum vulgare Mill and Majorana hortensis Minch are widely used as herbal plants in traditional medicine and they have been reported to have a variety of therapeutic effects. This study was carried out to evaluate the antimicrobial effects of essential oils (EOs) extracted from these medicinal herbs against six species of food-borne microorganisms. Materials and Methods: The EOs were analyzed by gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC/MS). The detection of inhibitory effect of the EOs on the tested bacteria was carried out by agar disk-diffusion method and then MIC (Minimum Inhibitory Concentration) and MBC (Minimum Bactericidal Concentration) of the EOs against six bacteria were determined. Results: The analysis of the components of the essential oils (EOs) extracted by gas chromatography spectrometry allowed the identification of 63 compounds of the five tested EOs. All of these five tested EOs indicated an antimicrobial effect against strains of Bacillus sp and Listeria Monocytogenes ATCC1297. Essential oils from T. copticum, M. hortensis and F. vulgare possessed a wide spectrum of antibacterial activity against the growth of the six bacteria with zone diameter of inhibition (ZDI) between 14-32 mm, depending on the susceptibility of the tested organism. Conclusion: Antibacterial efficacy shown by these plants provides a scientific basis and thus validates their use as medicinal remedies. Isolation and purification of different phytochemicals may further yield significant antibacterial agents.

Abstract Floristic survey of Podol, Lemazan, Bedoo mountain (located in 90 km eastern of Bandar Lengheh, Hormozgan province), with about 45000 hectars area and maximum elevation of 1150 meters above the sea level, and 133.7 milimeter annual precipitation, was the main goal of the present work. The collected specimens were identified using taxonomic methods. List of plant species, life forms, chorotypes and their medicinal values were presented. The results showed that 156 plant species belonging to 130 genera and 43 families of vascular plants grow in the area. Asteraceae, Fabaceae, Lamiaceae, Chenopodiaceae and Brassicaceae with 23, 16, 10, 9 and 8 species are the largest families, and Salvia, Astragalus, Heliotropium and Plantago with 5, 4, 4, 4 and 3 species are the largest genera in the region, respectively. The life forms frequency were 39.1% Therophytes, 24.36% Chamaephytes, 22.44% Hemicryptophytes, 12.18% Phanerophytes and 1.92% Cryptophytes, indicating the sever climate conditions in the region. Also, 35.89% of species are Saharo-Syndian and Irano-Turanian, 30.77% are Saharo-Syndian. Furthermore, 12 endemic species and 64 medicinal species are inhabitate in this region, indicating the importance of flora and vegetation of the studies area.

Background: Delinquency means occurring actions or behaviors that are against the rules and values of a community. It is believed that knowing factors related to delinquency is the most effective issue for crime prevention. The aim of this study was to determine the relationship of psychological disorders and socioeconomic factors with the juvenile delinquency. Methods: This case-control study was conducted on 88 young (44 young offenders residing in the correction and rehabilitation center and 44 high-school teenagers aged between 15-18 years). Information on demographic, familial, and socioeconomic factors were collected by a self-made questionnaire and psychological data was gathered using attention deficit disorder with hyperactivity (ADHD), anxiety, and depression questionnaires. Data was analyzed using chi-square test. Findings: Psychological disorders including anxiety (P < 0.001) and depression (P < 0.001) were significantly higher in offenders compared to non-offenders. The proportion of those who had a history of away from home (P = 0.001), drug abuse (P < 0.001), divorce in parents (P < 0.001), delinquency in family (P < 0.0001), physical punishment (P = 0.032), drug abuse in family (P = 0.001), having an offender friend (P = 0.002), and aggression (P = 0.004) in offenders was significantly higher. The educational level of participants (P < 0.001) and their parents (P = 0.037), and family income (P = 0.001) were lower in offenders. Independent and significant associations between drug abuse and anxiety with juvenile delinquency were observed in logistic regression model. Conclusion: Psychological disorders, familial factors, cultural level, and socioeconomic status were associated with juvenile delinquency. In addition to these factors, individual behaviors such as drug abuse and anxiety were very important factors in occurrence of juvenile delinquency and appropriate interventions in this issue are recommended.

Introduction: Knowledge of Faculty members’ views about factors affecting occupational motivation is helpful in creating occupational motivation for predicting and interpreting their behavior. The purpose of this study was to assess the motivational factors affecting the educational performance of faculty members of Semnan University of Medical Sciences from their own perspective. Methods: In this descriptive, cross-sectional study, 145 of the faculty members of Semnan University of Medical Sciences were selected by simple random sampling in order to identify the factors affecting occupational motivation. Data collection tool was a researcher-made 20-item questionnaire on a 5-point Likert scale. It was designed based on Herzberg’s two-factor theory and its content validity and reliability were confirmed through test-retest. Data were analyzed using chi-square and Fisher’s exact tests. Results: According to the faculty members’ views, the external factor “being respected in the workplace” with the mean score of 3.48±0.98 and the internal factor “intrinsic interest in teaching” with the mean score of 4.57±0.61 were the most important factors respectively. Conclusion: Results showed that in general, both internal and external motivational factors were effective in the performance of faculty members. Therefore, to improve their performance, managers should provide necessary tools to increase faculty members’ motivation.

Objective: Receptor activator of nuclear factor-kappa B ligand (RANKL) appears to be an osteoclast-activating factor, bearing an important role in the pathogenesis of multiple myeloma. Some studies demonstrated that U-266 myeloma cell line and primary myeloma cells expressed RANK and RANKL. It had been reported that the expression of myeloid and monocytoid markers was increased by co-culturing myeloma cells with hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs). This study also attempted to show the molecular mechanism of RANK and RANKL on differentiation capability of human cord blood HSC to osteoclast, as well as expression of calcitonin receptor (CTR) on cord blood HSC surface. Materials and Methods: In this experimental study, CD133+ hematopoietic stem cells were isolated from umbilical cord blood and cultured in the presence of macrophage colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF) and RANKL. Osteoclast differentiation was characterized by using tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) staining, giemsa staining, immunophenotyping, and reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) assay for specific genes. Results: Hematopoietic stem cells expressed RANK before and after differentiation into osteoclast. Compared to control group, flow cytometric results showed an increased expression of RANK after differentiation. Expression of CTR mRNA showed TRAP reaction was positive in some differentiated cells, including osteoclast cells. Conclusion: Presence of RANKL and M-CSF in bone marrow could induce HSCs differentiation into osteoclast.

Background and Objective: Injury is one of the causes of morbidity and mortality that deprives the injured individuals of a normal life but also imposes high emotional and financial costs for the patients and their family. This study was done in order to determine the socioeconomic factors in injured children at Mousavi and Valiasr hospitals of Zanjan.Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional study 650 injured children under 15 who referred to Mousavi and Valiasr hospitals of zanjan were randomly selected. Using a questionnaire, information on demographic and socioeconomic factors including sex, age, and type of injury, parents' age, occupation and salary were gathered. Data was analyzed using measure of central tendency, frequency tables and Chi-Square Test.Results: From 650 injured children, %61.5 were boys and %38.5 were girls. The mean (SD) age of these children was 7.8 (4.3). Three hundred eighty five of the children (%59.2) were urban and 265 (%40.8) were rural. Most of injured children had a father who was worker or a mother who was housewife. The level of education of parents was low in most cases. Furthermore, the frequency of injuries in children had a significant association with family income and socioeconomic factors.Conclusion: The results of this study indicate that carrying out prevention programs for students and parents, especially families of low socioeconomic status has a major role in reducing injury risk factors from the children's living environment.

Objective: Type I diabetes is an immunologically-mediated devastation of insulin producing cells (IPCs) in the pancreatic islet. Stem cells that produce β-cells are a new promising tool. Adult stem cells such as mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are self renewing multi potent cells showing capabilities to differentiate into ectodermal, mesodermal and endodermal tissues. Pancreatic and duodenal homeobox factor 1 (PDX1) is a master regulator gene required for embryonic development of the pancreas and is crucial for normal pancreatic islets activities in adults. Materials and Methods: We induced the over-expression of the PDX1 gene in human bone marrow MSCs (BM-MSCs) by Lenti-PDX1 in order to generate IPCs. Next, we examine the ability of the cells by measuring insulin/c-peptide production and INSULIN and PDX1 gene expressions. Results: After transduction, MSCs changed their morphology at day 5 and gradually differentiated into IPCs. INSULIN and PDX1 expressions were confirmed by real time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and immunostaining. IPC secreted insulin and C-peptide in the media that contained different glucose concentrations. Conclusion: MSCs differentiated into IPCs by genetic manipulation. Our result showed that lentiviral vectors could deliver PDX1 gene to MSCs and induce pancreatic differentiation.

Background: In Nov 2013, the instruction for controlling high cholesterol has been released by the American College of Cardiology (ACC) and the American Heart Association (AHA) which need to be assessed in the different communities. Methods: Of total 6275 individual aged 40-75 years who entered at the Tehran Lipids and Glucose Study from March 1999 to 20 March 2010 in first examination cycle, 5153 with the median follow-up of more than ten years were eligible to enter in this study. The 10-year risk of hard cardiovascular disease (Hard CVD) for Statin therapy based on ACC/AHA clinical guideline was calculated and this risk was calculated for each subgroup of the guideline who recommended for statin therapy comparing to the risk in individuals with prevalent CVD. Results: Of nearly 6.5 million urban population of Iran (according to the 1996 census) about 4 million individuals (2.55 million men and 1.4 million women) were eligible for statin therapy. With respect to the urban population growth from the 1996 to the 2011 census (about 2.5 percent increases) the number of individuals for receiving statin increased by 50% (5 million men and 3 million women). Also, the risk in non-diabetic men with calculated risk of 5-7.5% and diabetic women with calculated risk of

Background: Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is a therapeutic approach in treatment of hematologic malignancies and incompatibility of bone marrow. Umbilical cord blood (UCB) known as an alternative for hematopoietic stem/ progenitor cells (HPSC) for in allogenic transplantation. The main hindrance in application of HPSC derived from umbilical cord blood is the low volume of collected samples. So, ex vivo expansion of HPSCs is the useful approach to overcome this restriction. Synthetic biomaterials such as nanofibers is used to produce synthetic niches. The aim of this study was the ex vivo expansion of hematopoietic stem cells on biocompatible nanofiber scaffolds. Methods: This study was done at Tarbiat Modares University from November 2012 to June 2013 and was a research study. Umbilical cord blood CD133+ hematopoietic stem cells were separated using MidiMacs (positive selection) system by means of monocolonal antibody (microbeads) CD133. Flow cytometry was used to assess the purity of cells. Cell culture was done on plate (2 Dimensional) and fibronectin conjougated polyether sulfone nanofiber scaffold (3 Dimensional). Colony assay test was used to asses the ability of colonization of cells. Results: Cell count analysis revealed the expansion of hematopoietic stem cells in cell culture plate (2D environment) and on nanofiber scaffold (3D environment) after 2 weeks. Expansion of cells in 2D environment was greater than 3D condition. Colony assay test revealed that the colonization ability of cells decreased after 2 weeks, but this decrease was lower in scaffold culture than plate culture. Conclusion: This study demonstrated that umbilical cord blood CD133+ hematopoietic stem cells can expand on fibronectin conjugated polyether sulfone scaffold and we can use this system for expanding of cells in vitro situation.

Introduction: Nanotechnology is the study and application of extremely small things and can be used across all the other science fields, such as chemistry, biology, physics, materials science, and engineering. An alternative method for considering the trend of research activities in countries is quantitative analysis of scientific output. The objective of current study is to analyze and visualize the trend of scientific output in the field of nanotechnology in MEDLINE during a period of 10 years 2001-2010. Method: The extraction of data was restricted to the data set that was indexed as a major main heading of “nanotechnology” in MEDLINE through 2001 – 2010. Data about patent applications was obtained from WIPO Statistics Database. Database of Science Citation Index Expanded (SCIE) was selected from Web of Science to obtain publications indexed under the topic of nanotechnology. Result: Analysis of data showed that the research activities in the field of nanotechnology have been increased steady through the period of study. The number of publications in 2010 was ~ 84 times greater than those in 2001. English language consisting of 98% of total publications was the most dominant language of publications. Based on Bradford’s scattering’s law the journal of “ Nanoscience and Nanotechnology“ distributing 12.8% of total publications was the most prolific journal. Conclusion: The USA contributing 39% of world’s publications in the field was the most productive country followed by China (10%), Germany (6%), Japan (6%), Korea (5%) and UK (4%). The most majority of world’s publications (70%) were produced by these six countries. The tremendous growth of publications was simultaneously with the rapid growth of patent application in the field of Micro-structural and nano-technology in WIPO.

Background: The Vitamin D receptor (VDR) polymorphisms are the candidate genetic variants for susceptibility to different disease including autoimmune disorders. In the present study, we aimed to assess the association between VDR polymorphisms and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) susceptibility in Southeast Iranian population. Materials and Methods: One hundred and twenty-seven patients with SLE and 139 controls were genotyped for VDR rs2228570, rs731236, and rs7975232 polymorphisms using polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism method. Results: The VDR rs2228570 polymorphism was associated with higher risk of SLE in codominant, dominant, and overdominant models. Moreover, higher risk of SLE was observed in individuals with VDR rs731236 polymorphism in codominant, dominant, overdominant, and allelic models. The tAf haplotype of rs731236/rs7975232/rs2228570 polymorphisms was associated with higher risk of SLE. Conclusion: In conclusion, VDR rs2228570 and rs731236 polymorphisms and tAf haplotype were associated with SLE risk.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the validity of cause of death stated in death certificates in Tehran using outcome measures of the Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study (TLGS), an ongoing prospective cohort study. METHODS: The cohort was established in 1999 in a population of 15005 people, 3 years old and over, living in Tehran; 3551 individuals were added to this population three years later. As part of cohort's outcome measures, deaths occurring in the cohort are investigated by a panel of medical specialists (Cohort Outcome Panel--COP) and underlying cause of death is determined for each death. The cause of death assigned in a deceased's original death certificate was evaluated against the cause of death determined by COP and sensitivity and positive predictive values (PPV) were determined. In addition, determinants of assigning accurate underlying cause of death were determined using logistic regression model. RESULT: A total of 231 death certificates were evaluated. The original death certificates over reported deaths due to neoplasms and underreported death due to circulatory system and transport accidents. Neoplasms with sensitivity of 0.91 and PPV of 0.71 were the most valid category. The disease of circulatory system showed moderate degree of validity with sensitivity of 0.67 and PPV of 0.78. The result of logistic regression indicated if the death certificate is issued by a general practitioner, there is 2.3 (95% CI 1.1, 5.1) times chance of being misclassified compared with when it is issued by a specialist. If the deceased is more than 60 years, the chance of misclassification would be 2.5 times (95% CI of 1.1, 5.9) compared with when the deceased is less than 60 years.

The most severe endemia of our time, iodine deficiency affects more than one billion people worldwide. Two hundred Million cases of goiter and six million of creatinism have recorded worldwide. Iodine deficiency disorders (IDD) is the most health problem of our country. In a prospective study, the prevalence and clinical staging of endemic goiter in 16054 students (8262 male and 7792 female) age range 7-18 years old in different cities of Hamadan were determined. By clinical examination, the goitrous thyroid was classified based on the WHO staging system The prevalence of goiter were 39.76% in males and 47.38% in females of total sample. The most common stage, was IA (34.05%) and IB (8.54%) respectively. Only 9.97% of population had class II goiter. Class IA goiter were more common in male (34.83%) than female (32.26%) but class IB and II were more common in female students. Conclusion: The older the person, higher the prevalence of goiter in both males and females. The prevalence rate of goiter is significantly more in females than males. The prevalence of high stage (IB, II) were more in Hamadan and Touiserkan. According to WHO recommendations goiter must be considered an important health problem in Hamadan Province.