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Introduction: The skin plays a crucial role as a protective barrier against external factors, but disruptions to its integrity can lead to wound formation and hinder the natural healing process. Scar formation and delayed wound healing present significant challenges in skin injury treatment. While alternative approaches such as skin substitutes and tissue engineering exist, they are often limited in accessibility and cost. Exosomes have emerged as a potential solution for wound healing due to their regenerative properties. Methods: In this study, exosomes were isolated from human blood serum using a kit. The exosomes were characterized, and their effects on cell migration were assessed in vitro. Additionally, the wound healing capacity of exosomes was evaluated in vivo using a rat full-thickness wound model. Results: Our in vitro findings revealed that exosomes significantly promoted cell migration. In vivo experiments demonstrated that the injection of exosomes at different areas of the wound accelerated the wound healing process, resulting in wound closure, collagen synthesis, vessel formation, and angiogenesis in the wound area. These results suggest that exosomes have a promising therapeutic potential for expediting wound healing and minimizing scar formation. Conclusions: The findings of this study highlight the potential of exosomes as a novel approach for enhancing wound healing. Exosomes showed positive effects on both cell migration and wound closure in in vitro and in vivo studies, suggesting their potential use as a regenerative therapy for skin injuries. Further research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms underlying the beneficial effects of exosomes on wound healing and to optimize their application in clinical settings.

Abstract Background Nursing education has recently undergone changes to improve care. These changes require innovative and transformative strategies in nursing education. Search as learning is one of the educational methods this study was conducted to determine the effect of the information searching process on scenario-based learning in nursing students. Methods This study is a single group semi-experimental study that was conducted on 38 nursing students in 2021. Students first drew a concept map according to their existing knowledge about two scenarios (diabetes and trauma). The students then searched the medical databases and drew another concept map after the search. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, paired mean tests and Pearson correlation coefficients. Results The results showed that the mean scores of the participants in the diabetes scenario before and after the search were 18.32 ± 5.50 and 19.13 ± 7.54, respectively, and those in the trauma scenario were 18.58 ± 7.69 and 29.61 ± 7, respectively (P

Background: The success of Staphylococcus aureus as an important human pathogen is probably due to possession of various virulence determinants. Attachment and biofilm formation is considered the main step in any infection. The present study aimed to determine the presence of S. aureus surface (sas) genes and their association with biofilm formation and antibiotic resistance. Methods: S. aureus isolates collected were analyzed for biofilm formation using polystyrene microtitre plates. All S. aureus isolates were also examined for the determination of sas genes by PCR assays and antibiotic susceptibility assay by disk diffusion method. Results: Biofilm formation assay revealed that 29 S. aureus isolates were weak biofilm producers, 57 had moderate biofilm production, while only five isolates showed strong biofilm formation. The biofilm production was not revealed among nine isolates. The frequency of sas genes were 95 (88%), 94 (87%), 94 (87%), 92 (85.2%), 98 (90.7%), 93 (86.1%), 97 (89.8%), 87 (80.6%), and 85 (78.7%) for sasF, sasA, sasC, sasE, sasG, sasH, sasI, sasJ, and sasK genes, respectively. Conclusion: High incidence of biofilm production was noticed in S.aureus strains positive for sas genes indicating the precise role of them as virulence-associated genes. Moreover, phenotypically weak or moderate biofilm formation can be well managed by antibiotic therapeutics and allow timely elimination of planktonic cells prior biofilm production.

In this research a new algorithm for facet extraction has been developed and introduced, which provides the experimental possibility of identifying facets based on a literary warrant. In the field of automatic facet extraction two main ideas were considered by reviewing the researches. The first idea is that the facet appears in the context. Therefore, to identify the facet in a corpus, its context must be examined. The second idea is that the facet is the focal point in a lexical tree that is neither very general nor very specific. Based on these two ideas, first, the corpus in the medicine area and the obstetrics and gynaecology domain was prepared. The research team selected three corpora from the literary warrant and used the abstract and title of the collection of articles in top 20 journals of the field to create a contextual corpus. This collection contained 167071 documents. 2000 articles were randomly selected to create the origin corpus. The third body is the lexical corpus. The proper words of the corpus were extracted using a web-based service. The output contained 514 words. Duplicate words were removed and finally, 480 important words were identified. Then, the words were expanded in the contextual corpus with the help of the supervisor (Mesh) and then-candidate dissertations were extracted based on the two conditions of frequency-based Shifting and rank-based Shifting. Finally, using the three rules of specificity, substitution, and generality, the identified facets were modified and named. Finally, 26 facets were identified in the domain of gynaecology and obstetrics. Comparing the proposed algorithm with other algorithms, it was found that the combination of statistical approach and tree pruning can have better results than purely statistical approach or tree pruning. Also, the comparison of the output facets of the algorithm with the traditional facets in this obstetrics and gynaecology domain showed that the output of the algorithm is smaller and more useful for browsing information retrieval tools. Also, in this study was specified that specialized domain facets are different from general facets and can be redefined independently, but the results cannot be generalized to all medical domains and other researches are needed to be done in other fields.

Background and Aim: This study aimed to propose a consistent architecture to design integrated and flexible information systems for the Vice-Chancellor for Research and Technology of Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences (AJUMS). Materials and Methods: This applied research employed an integrated design based on business system planning (BSP) and James Martinchr('39')s model for the design of information systems. The statistical population of this study included 27 managers and experts of AJUMS Vice-Chancellorship department for Research and Technology. Data collection was carried out using structured interview, observation, and document analysis. A contrast matrix was then used for data analysis. Results: In total, 53 processes and 60 data classes were identified. Using a multi-layered architectural model (presentation, process, data and infrastructure), the results were presented in the form of a proposed architecture. In the proposed architecture, 12 subsystems and the relationships among them were identified; such subsystems as library, research activities, sabbatical leave, conference, fellowship, publication, innovation and technology, laboratory information, theses, budget and planning, social subsystem and knowledge-management networks. The results also showed that the level of coverage of the processes, data classes, and objectives by existing information systems were 53%, 50%, and 55%, respectively, and increased to full coverage in proposed or optimal modes. Conclusion: By identifying the required information systems, it is possible to accurately plan and successfully use these systems in this study. The results of the present study can be used to implement the architecture of information systems of Research and Technology Departments of other universities of medical sciences (UMSs) in Iran, which can have a significant effect on saving cost and time.

Introduction: Midkine (MK), a heparin-binding growth factor, is involved in neurological diseases by mediating the inflammatory responses through enhancing the leukocyte migration. The present study assesses the serum concentration of this growth factor among newly developed Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and Neuromyelitis Optica (NMO) patients. Methods: The present research, as a cross-sectional study, was performed at Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan City, Iran. All samples were selected from patients who visited Kashani and Alzahra hospitals for two years (2014 to 2016). The MK level was assessed in 80 new MS cases, 80 NMO patients, and 80 healthy subjects. After collecting blood sera samples, MK serum level was measured using the ELISA. The obtained data were analyzed in SPSS. Results: The Mean±SD MK level was 1038.58±44.73 pg/mL in the MS group, which was significantly higher than the Mean±SD MK level in the NMO (872.62±55.42 pg/mL) and control groups (605.02±9.42 pg/mL). Conclusion: Overall, these results demonstrated that MK plays a prominent role in inflammatory reactions and neuroautoimmune diseases, especially in MS. So, the MK level may be used for earlier diagnosis and also prevention of disease progression by using a special inhibitor.

Introduction: Although the concept of facet analysis has a long background in the classification and information retrieval systems, the use of facet analysis approach in the current information retrieval systems is associated with drawbacks. One of these drawbacks is the lack of proper attention to the user as the main stakeholder of the system. In this study, a method is presented for appropriate facet extraction in the modern information retrieval systems. Methods: In order to perceive the need of users and achieve the facets of gynecology and obstetrics, the contractual content analysis method was employed with a qualitative approach. First, the informational needs of the user group were identified after interviewing 14 specialists in the fields of midwifery and gynecology and obstetrics. Then, the informational needs were classified with the help of specialists in the subject area and a facet was attributed to each stage. An expert group consisting of eight subject-area specialists and eight specialists in knowledge and information science evaluated the efficiency of the facets extracted; this way, the agreement was evaluated based on the total agreement formula. Results: Based on the codes extracted from the interviews related to determining the information needs of stakeholders in the domains of gynecology and obstetrics, 23 facets were identified, 9 of which being identified as proper facets, including age groups, organ, therapeutics, diagnosis, disease, symptoms or finding, risk factor, complication, and prognosis by the experts through receiving a coefficient of agreement above 80%. Conclusion: Facet extraction of the information retrieval systems based on the user-oriented approach converts the facets from general to specialized states. In this case, the facets are different for the users of each specialized domain in the user interface; thus, the specialized user interfaces would be formed.

Facet analysis approach (FAA) has exhibited a continuous growth trend since the early 20th century. The present paper is aimed to systematically review the studies and documents of the faceted organization plans as well as thematic and temporal classification of these works. This review led to the identification of the growth and development trends of applying this approach in the information organization and retrieval tools, followed by providing some suggestions for researchers in future works. Accordingly, the steps to be taken in the present work were as follows: The first step included a comprehensive search in relevant references as well as a primary review of the documents, followed by classification and refinement of the documents in the second step. The third step addressed temporal and thematic classification of the documents, analysis of the literature, and identification of the existing gaps. In the final step, some suggestions were provided for covering these gaps. The outcomes of the previous works included the development of faceted rankings, faceted glossaries and headings, and faceted information retrieval systems, the extensive use of which continued until 1990s. Subsequently, with the development of computer systems and web, the facets took another role in the retrieval of the data available in the database. During this period, a set of models, faceted metadata, faceted user interfaces, and faceted ontologies was made, which was followed by the development of several software in this field. The facet analysis approach has been developing since the early 20th century to 1990 based on the logical system (a priori) of science classification. However, since then, due to the development of the computer capabilities and growth of the users' needs, the logical perspective was replaced by the computational and user-oriented (a posteriori) perspective. Creating the structure of facets in semantic web environments and formulation of new standards, utilizing more effective methods to perceive user behaviors, and taking historical development and changes of sciences into account are the gaps that still require further studies. Covering these gaps promises sustainable effectiveness of the facet analysis process in future.

IntroductionToday, tourism is considered as one of the most important activities in the world, and it has high potential in generating foreign currency incomes and creating jobs. According to the definition, ecotourism is a responsibly journey to natural areas that protect the environment and improve the lives of local people. Despite having the necessary potential in tourism in Iran, it has not succeeded in attracting tourists. The first step towards achieving tourism development in the country is identifying, assessing, and introducing the existent potentials and capabilities to provide development opportunities with comprehensive knowledge and planning. Dorud is one of the unparalleled regions in Lorestan province due to the availability of sufficient water resources that can be a good place for water resource recreation. Unfortunately, despite these tourist attractions, there has not yet been an organized approach to land use planning that takes into account these natural talents of the region for water tourism. According to the mentioned issues, the present study intends to use a multi-criteria evaluation to identify and zonate suitable areas of water tourism, and its purpose is to properly plan the tourism with environmental considerations and prioritize these areas in the Dorud city.Materials and methodsDorud is situated in Lorestan Province. It is located between latitudes 33°16'-33°44'N and longitudes 48°47'-49°19'. In this study, by investigating the factors influencing the zoning of tourism-prone areas, Dorud region has been zoned based on multi-criteria evaluation model. Multi-criteria evaluation is a structured process for defining goals, formulating criteria, evaluating, and solving decision problems. In this study, the criteria was detemined based on the criteria of the ecotourism national document, the criteria of the ecological potential assessment, and the ecotourism criteria in the protected areas. After the preparation of the criteria maps, it is necessary to standardize the maps that have different ranges and scales. In this research, Fuzzy and Boolean methods were used to standard the scales. In order to fuzzy the criteria maps, the pixels are ranked based on the membership degree in the fuzzy range from 0 to 255, and high degree of membership indicate more desirability of pixels for tourism. In the Boolean method, zero values are inappropriate areas, and values of one indicate suitable areas for development. In order to weigh the criteria, the pairwise comparison method was used in the form of analytical hierarchy process (AHP), and then the maps were combined using the weighted linear combination method. Then, in order to prepare the final suitable map, it is necessary to extract the zones, which have 70% suitability and have more than 5 hectares. Finally, suitable zones for recreation prioritized by TOPSIS model.Result and discussionIn this research, the effective environmental criteria were considered as informational layers in water recreation zoning. Criteria were taken with two views: one for water recreation in lotic water resources, and the other on flowing water resources. The effective environmental criteria in water recreation zoning classified in 5 criterion groups involved physical, ecological, fundamental, safety, and social-economic and 27 sub criterion for water recreation in Lotic water resources, and 26 sub criterion for water recreation in lentic water resources. At this step, due to the difference in the type of tourism recreation in lotic and flowing water resources, two types of utility maps for the flowing water resources (waterfall and rivers) and the latic water recources (mineral fountain, dam, water reservoirs, sarab, lakes and wetlands) were prepared. Then, in order to zoning the area, the final raster layer was classified into four categories based on the suitability of the land. Thus, the first categort with high potential (the suitability of more than 150), the second category with the average potential (the suitability of 110 to 150), the third category with the weak potential (the suitability of 50 to 110), and the forth category without suitability (0 to 50) were considered. In the next step, the first category was considered as the best class for the water recreation, and extracted from the suitable map. Based on the performed classification, 8.47% of the area has high potential for recreation in flowing water resources, and 10.28% of the area has high potential for recreation in latic water resources. Finally, six suitable zones in each of the recreations were selected, and tourism zones were prioritized according to the TOPSIS method.ConclusionThe results of criteria weighting for latic water resources showed that distance from lake, wetland, sarab, dam and water reservoirs are the most important criteria in suitable recreation areas. In addition, the results of the combination of AHP and TOPSIS in water resources showed that the slope and depth with a weight of 0.182 and, 0.173, respectively are the most important indicators in this model, respectively. Consequently, results showed that Merok dam, Mahi hamyane Sarab and pond, Heshamatabad 2 pond zones respectively have highest preferences for water recreation in lotic water resources. In relation to the tourism recreation in flowing water resources, weighting criteria shows that distance from the river, slope and height are the most important. In addition, the results of the AHP and TOPSIS combination in flowing water resources show that the slope, water speed, and water volume with a weight of 0.191, 0.171, and 0.140 are three important indicators in this model, respectively. As a result, Sezar River, Gaharrood 1 and Gaharrood 2 have highest preferences for water recreation flowing water resources. The proposed zones in this research were determined based on ecological and socio-economic criteria that indicate the high capability of the zones for this type of recreation. Of course, in order to implement tourism goals, further studies are needed in areas such as determining the ecological capacity of the region, soil erodibility and so on.

Background and Aim: Migraine is a common disease with throbbing and unilateral quality, which is accompanied by aura symptoms such as nausea, vomiting and photophobia. The level of procalcitonin is increased in migraine, which is due to the inflammation caused by a low level of serum serotonin. This study aims to investigate the level of serum procalcitonin in patient with migraine by prescribing serotonin agonist drugs. Materials and Methods: In this case-control study, 40 migraine patients in the center of migraine patients of al-zahra university hospital in Isfahan were selected, among which 26 patients received serotonin as a treatment while the other 14 ones were treated by drugs other than sumatriptan agonist. Then, the level of procalcitonin in these patients was calculated and analyzed. Findings: The results of the study showed that there was a difference between of the case and control groups in the level of procalcitonin in the serum of their sample blood tests. It seems that the case group patients have a lower level of procalcitonin compared to the control group. Conclusion: Totally, the current study indicates the effect of serotonin in reducing the level of serum procalcitonin.

Background: Malignant middle cerebral artery infarct (mMCAI) largely contributes to high mortality and physical disability among adults. Surviving individuals may not have proper outcomes and suffer from severe lasting disabilities. Utilization of stem cells and paracrine factor for regenerative purposes is considered as a potential strategy for patients with neurological deficits. While preclinical stroke studies have shown that mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) reduce post-treatment neurological deficits and prevent disability and also promote recovery, few randomized clinical trials (RCT) have assessed exosome therapy in humans. Methods: In this RCT, we assessed the safety of intraparenchymal injection placenta MSC-derived Exosome in mMCAI patients with average age of 62 years between January, 2019, till September, 2020. The study was done in a single-center as an open-label RCT, with a 3-months follow-up. Primary outcomes assessed the safety and also disability indexes were followed. Results: Five mMCAI patients were included with mean NIHSS: 17.6 ± 5.02. The mean MRS was 3.25 ± 0.95 in three patients. No serious adverse events were observed. Hematoma or local reaction as excessive edema were not seen at the site of injection. Conclusions: Intraparenchymal implantation of MSC-EXO showed no post-interventional adverse effects in five ischemic stroke patients. It is proposed Local injection Exosome treatment following mMCAI can be safe and in future, it would be applied as a supportive, restorative and preventive treatment in patients who suffer from acute ischemic stroke and post ischemic disability.

Study Design Randomized clinical trial. Purpose In this study, we evaluated the effect of mechanical evacuation of the bowels prior to operation on intraoperative bleeding. Overview of Literature Bleeding is the most significant complication in patients undergoing spinal surgery. Methods We randomly divided 108 individuals planned to undergo spinal surgery into two age-, sex-, and co-morbidity (especially preoperative hemoglobin [Hb])-matched groups of 54. The treatment group was administered polyethylene glycol (PEG) before the operation, whereas the control group was not. The exact amount (mL) of bleeding during operation, operative time, and approximate amount of blood transfused were recorded. The volume of bleeding and Hb level were also recorded 24 and 48 hours postoperatively. Results T-tests revealed that intraoperative bleeding, the volume of transfusion, and operative time were significantly lower in the treatment group than in the control group. Statistically significant correlations of intraoperative bleeding with age, body mass index (BMI), preoperative Hb levels, operative time, the volume of transfusion, hospitalization time, and 24- and 48-hour postoperative bleeding were observed (p =0.001, all). Repeated measures analysis of covariance after adjusting the covariate variables revealed that the volume of bleeding showed a near-significant trend in the treatment group compared with that in the control group (p =0.056). Diabetic females had the highest bleeding amount between the groups (p =0.03). Bleeding was higher in patients with higher BMI (p =0.02) and was related to operative time (p =0.001) in both the groups. Conclusions Preoperative gastrointestinal tract evacuation by PEG administration can decrease intraoperative bleeding in spinal surgeries; however, more research is imperative regarding PEG administration in surgical procedures for this purpose.

Background: Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a demyelinating disorder of the Central Nervous System (CNS). In addition to the role of immune mediated mechanisms, oxidative and nitrosative stress also play an important role in neuropathology of MS. Bilirubin as an endogenous antioxidant has neuroprotective effects; however few studies have assessed the association between serum bilirubin level and MS. Objectives: To evaluate serum level of bilirubin in MS patients. Materials and Methods: Serum samples were collected from participants who referred to Kashani MS clinic in Isfahan between July 2016 and July 2017. A total of 80 MS patients (67 females and 13 males) and 94 Healthy Control subjects (HCs) (62 female and 32 male) enrolled. Compression of bilirubin levels between MS patients and HCs was done with covariance analysis. Regression analysis was used to assess the relation between bilirubin concentration and EDSS. SPSS software version 17.0 for Windows (SPSS, Chicago, IL, USA) was used. Results: The level of Direct bilirubin (Dbil) was significantly lower in MS patients compared with HCs (P=0.02). Otherwise the serum concentration of Total bilirubin (Tbil) and in Direct bilirubin (Ibil) were higher in MS patients, but it was not statistically significant. There was a negative correlation between Extended Disability Status Scale (EDSS) and bilirubin levels (Tbil, Dbil and Ibil) but it was not significant. Conclusion: Bilirubin level is lower in MS patients and deficit of its antioxidant level may play role in neuropathology of MS.

Abstract Objectives This study aims to assess the effect of propolis supplementation on clinical symptoms in patients with coronavirus (COVID-19). Trial design This is a Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Parallel Arm, Randomized Phase ΙΙ Clinical Trial. Participants Patients with the confirmed COVID-19 based on the PCR test are eligible to participate in the trial if they are 18 to 75 years of age and have no history of the current use of warfarin or propolis supplement and presence of sensitivity to bee products. Patients will be recruited from the Al-Zahra hospital in Isfahan city, Isfahan, Iran. Intervention and comparator Participants (N=40) in the intervention group will receive an identical propolis tablet (containing 300 mg Iranian green propolis extract) three times a day for a period of 2 weeks. Participants (N=40) in the control group will receive an identical placebo tablet (containing 300 mg microcrystalline cellulose) three times a day for 2 weeks. All tablets are prepared by the Reyhan Naghsh Jahan Pharmaceutical Co., Isfahan, Iran. Main outcomes The main outcomes are changes in the coronavirus disease’s clinical symptoms including duration and severity from baseline to the end of 2 weeks. Randomization Eligible patients will be randomly allocated in a 1:1 ratio to the intervention or control group. Randomization will be performed on the basis of permuted block sizes of 4 and will be stratified according to sex categories. Randomization sequences will be prepared by the trial’s pharmacist with the use of random-number tables. Blinding (masking) The trial-group assignment will be concealed from all participants, clinicians, and investigators throughout the trial. To ensure blinding, randomization sequences will be kept in identical, opaque, sealed, sequentially numbered envelopes. Only the trial's pharmacist has access to the randomization list. Also, the placebo tablet will be similar to the propolis tablet in terms of texture, taste, color, odor, and weight. Both tablets will be provided in containers that are completely identical in weight, shape, labelling, and packaging. Numbers to be randomized (sample size) The calculated total sample size is 80 patients, with 40 patients in each group. Trial status The protocol is Version 1.0, October 10, 2020. Recruitment began August 22, 2020, and is anticipated to be completed by March 21, 2021. Trial registration The name of the trial register: The effect of propolis supplementation on clinical symptoms in patients with coronavirus (COVID-19): A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. IRCT registration number: IRCT20200802048267N1 . Date of trial registration: 20 October 2020, retrospectively registered. Full protocol The full protocol is attached as an additional file, accessible from the Trials website (Additional file 1). In the interest of expediting the dissemination of this material, the familiar formatting has been eliminated; this Letter serves as a summary of the key elements of the full protocol.

BACKGROUND: Our aim was to create and establish a database called “Persian Registry Of cardioVascular diseasE (PROVE)” in order to be used for future research and in addition, as a tool to develop national guidelines for diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of cardiovascular disease (CVD). In this paper, the design and methodology of the PROVE pilot study will be discussed, launched in Isfahan, Iran, in 2015-2016. METHODS: Through establishing PROVE, patients' data were collected from hospitals and outpatient clinics prospectively or retrospectively and followed up for a maximum of three years based on the type of CVDs. The inclusion criteria were as patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS), ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), stroke, atrial fibrillation (AF), heart failure (HF), congenital heart disease (CHD), percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), and chronic ischemic cardiovascular disease (CICD). Specific protocols, questionnaires, and glossaries were developed for each registry. In order to ensure the validation of the protocols, questionnaires, data collection, management, and analysis, a well-established quality control (QC) protocol was developed and implemented. Data confidentiality was considered. RESULTS: In order to register patients with ACS, STEMI, stroke, HF, PCI, and CICD, the hospital recorded data were used, whereas, in case of AF and CHD registries, the data were collected from hospitals and outpatient clinics. During the pilot phase of the study in Isfahan, from March 2015 to September 2016, 9427 patients were registered as ACS including 809 as STEMI, 1195 patients with HF, 363 with AF, 761 with stroke, 1136 with CHD, 1200 with PCI, and 9 with CICD. Data collection and management were performed under the supervision of the QC group. CONCLUSION: PROVE was developed and implemented in Isfahan as a pilot study, in order to be implemented at national level in future. It provides a valuable source of valid data that could be used for future research, re-evaluation of current CVD management and more specifically, gap analysis and as a tool for assessment of the type of CVDs, prevention, treatment, and control by health care decision makers.

Introduction: This article aimed to study the main constituents of professional information seeking in organizational context of Emergency Medical Management (EMS) and Disaster Management Center in Bushehr City, Iran. In this study, we tried to investigate the relationship between job duties, professionalism, and information sources in organizational context. Methods: This study was done on the basis of a qualitative method called "interpretive field study". The method of data gathering was interview, observation, and the investigation of Emergency Medical Management documents. For data analysis, at first the concepts was extracted from the interviews and then, they were clustered. Finally, describing the relationship among the set of concepts, a model was presented for information Seeking of Bushehr emergency medical management technicians. Results: In this model, it became clear that the nature of job of emergency medical management technicians had divided their information seeking to two part: during the processes and after the processes. During the implementation of processes, information seeking was done in the decision-making time which was based on experience and collective consultation. After the implementation of the processes, to answer the information needs, the search for sources began. Method of discerning the information needs, searching for sources (experience, group consultation, official sources, …) during the implementation of process and after that, depended on job training, personal behaviors, and organizational norms which were present in study context. Conclusion: The emergency medical management authorities should consider the nature of profession and organizational context in information seeking behavior and should utilize from various information seeking pattern to meet the information requirements of emergency medical management technicians.

Background: Matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) polymorphisms, C−1562 T and -90 (CA) n repeats, which influence transcriptional activity of this gene, are proposed to play a role in MS susceptibility and its development. In the present study, the possible association of MMP-9 polymorphisms in Iranian MS patients is studied. Methods: Association of MMP-9 mentioned gene polymorphisms with MS susceptibility was evaluated in unrelated Iranian subjects referred to Al-Zahra Hospital, Isfahan, Iran during 2014 to 2017. Results: -1562 T allele of MMP-9 was associated with increased MS risk. However, we found no overall significant effect of −90 (CA)n repeat on MS susceptibility. Conclusion: For as much as MMP-9 molecule is a potential target for MS therapy, to determine whether any of MMP-9 polymorphisms influence MS susceptibility in Iranian MS patients or not, concerning the significant influence of T allele on MS susceptibility and the non-significant association regarding CA repeats, further research is needed before proposing any definite conclusion.

Background: Considering nitric oxide (NO) as one of the important molecular regulators in genital organs, and according to the critical level of it in establishing a successful pregnancy, we assessed the changes in testis tissue of embryo and offspring via treating pregnant mice. Methods: 35 adult female mice, after observing the vaginal plug, were randomly divided into five groups of seven. The first one was the control group. Remaining groups, respectively, received L-Arginin, L-nitro-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME), normal saline, and a mixture of L-Arginin and L–NAME, three days in first half of pregnancy. One day before the delivery, and before maturation, embryos’ and offspring’s testes were removed through laparotomy. Pathological and histological changes of samples were assessed using histotechnique method and general Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&E) staining. Findings: In L-NAME group, in addition to disorganization in tissue order, tunica albuginea diameter was considerably increased whereas the number of germ cells was significantly decreased in embryos and offspring. L. Arginine treatment in pregnant mice led to reduce the number of seminiferous tubules and decrease tunica albuginea diameter and dissemination. Conclusion: Stimulating or inhibiting the synthesis of nitric oxide in pregnant mice can interfere with the organ normal function and influence fertility parameters via causing abnormally and malformations in testis tissue, specially in the next generation.

Introduction: Superbug known as Staphylococcus aureus possess a tendency to form biofilm, which has a significant role in causing infection and abating host defense response. Amongst many mechanisms, biofilm formation depends on the icaABCD operon involved in the synthesis of a polysaccharide intercellular adhesion. Aim: To investigate biofilm forming ability of S. aureus isolates by phenotypic and genotypic methods. Materials and Methods: Of the 97 S. aureus clinical isolates collected, the quantitative biofilm formation was determined by microtiter plates. All S. aureus isolates were examined for detection of the icaABCD genes and mecA gene by using PCR method. Statistical analysis was performed with SPSS program version 17.0. Results: Among 97 S. aureus isolates from blood, wound, skin, surgery, internal, burn and infectious wards, urine and body fluids specimens, five isolates appeared as strong biofilm producer, while 28 displayed moderate biofilm formation, and 55 showed weak biofilm formation. Nine isolates did not reveal biofilm production on microtiter plates. The frequency of icaA, icaB, icaC and icaD genes in S. aureus isolates was 81 (83.5%), 71 (73.2%), 51 (52.5%) and 97 (100%), respectively. There was no relation between presence of icaABCD genes and biofilm formation (p=0.74). Conclusion: The presence of biofilm genes may not coincide with the ability to produce biofilm or vice versa. At the results, S. aureus clinical isolates possess different capacity to produce biofilm and adhesion. Methicillin resistance and susceptible isolates may not differ in their capacity to form biofilm.

Introduction: Malignant melanoma is a fatal cutaneous neoplasm and one of the fastest growing cancers worldwide. The objective of this study is to evaluate the prevalence of melanoma in different cultural settings and the probable role of clothing for prevention.Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, data about diagnosed melanoma patients in Kerman Province, Iran including age, pathology, sex, location, and site of skin involvement, were obtained from the Kerman and Rafsanjan Cancer Registries from 2005 to 2009. Similar data related to melanoma incidence in Victoria, Australia were obtained from the Victorian Cancer Council, Melbourne. Incidence by age, sex and site of skin was calculated in both Kerman Province and Victoria State. Then the incidence differences for exposed and unexposed limbs were calculated and compared. Results: Melanoma incidence in Kerman was 5.7 in million annually. Incidence in men was higher than women. The highest incidence was seen in 70-79 years of age. Most cases of melanoma (30%) were localized in the face. Incidence in Victoria State was 431.9 in million annually. The incidence in men was more than women. The highest incidence was seen above 80 years of age. Most of the cases (30.1%) of melanoma were seen in the trunk and then arm with 22.1%. The incidence difference between the two nations was significant except for the hands and male’s feet. Conclusion:The present study suggests that clothing is possibly preventing about 25.7, 37.4 and 72.6 cases of melanoma respectively in the trunk, arm and leg in 1,000,000 people annually in Iran.

Background: Alzheimer's disease (AD), the most frequent progressive neurodegenerative disorder, is associated with endothelial cell dysfunction. It has been presented that peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma (PPAR-gamma) agonists can attenuate neurodegeneration of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) and improve vascular function. On the other hand, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACE-I) has beneficial effects on endothelial dysfunction and endothelial surveillance. This study aimed to compare the beneficial effects of PPAR-gamma and ACE-I on human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) treated with sera from patients with Alzheimer's disease or healthy controls. Methods: 10 patients with Alzheimer's disease and 10 healthy individuals were arranged in case and control groups, respectively. Apoptosis was identified after and before adding pioglitazone and enalapril on endothelial cells by annexin V‑propidium iodide staining and cell-death detection kit. Although, nitrite levels were diminished when the sera exposed to both drugs treated endothelial cells but this difference between them was not significant. Findings: Pioglitazone and enalapril could attenuate apoptosis rate significantly before treating with sera from patients with Alzheimer's disease but the reduction rate was more when pioglitazone added to the media. Also, nitrite concentration showed significantly greater levels of dissolved NO2/NO3 metabolite in the culture media of endothelial cells treated by sera of patients with Alzheimer's disease (P < 0.05), while the rate of nitric oxide significantly decreased when both drugs were presented in culture media. Conclusion: Overally, apoptosis rate reduced more when PPAR agonist was added than ACE-I drugs. It seems that poiglitazone stimulate more anti-apoptotic mechanisms in Alzheimer's disease.

مقدمه: دوکسوروبیسین در درمان انواع سرطان‌ها مصرف می‌گردد. اما سمیت قلبی، مصرف آن را محدود ساخته است. برخی مطالعات نشان داده‌اند که کورتیکواستروییدها باعث محافظت قلبی می‌گردند. در این مطالعه با استفاده از کاردیومیوسیت‌های مشتق از سلول‌های بنیادی جنینی ترانس‌ژنیک موش اثرات دگزامتازون در کاهش توکسیسیته‌ی ناشی از دوکسوروبیسین بررسی شد. روش‌ها: سلول‌های قلبی خالص‌شده‌ی مشتق از سلول‌های بنیادی جنینی ترانس‌ژنیک موش (RB1-αMHC) با غلظت‌های مختلف دوکسوروبیسین به مدت 24 ساعت تیمار شدند، تا غلظتی که باعث کاهش 50 درصد حیات سلول‌های قلبی می‌شود برای استفاده در مراحل بعدی به دست بیاید. سلول‌ها در 3 گروه قرار گرفتند: گروه شاهد، گروه دوکسوروبیسین 5 میکرومولار به مدت 24 ساعت و گروه دگزامتازون 10 میکرومولار به مدت 24 ساعت قبل از دوکسوروبیسین 5 میکرومولار به مدت 24 ساعت. گروه‌ها از نظر ضربان با میکروسکوپ فاز کنتراست و درصد حیات با MTS Assay و از نظر بیان ژن با استفاده از تکنیک RT-PCR (Real time- polymerase chain reaction) ارزیابی شدند. یافته‌ها: غلظت 5 میکرومولار دوکسوروبیسین به عنوان حداقل غلظتی که باعث مرگ 50 درصد از این سلول‌ها می‌گردد، به دست آمد. در گروه اول تیمارشده با دوکسوروبیسین و غلظت 10 میکرومولار دگزامتازون اثر محافظت‌کننده بر حیات سلول‌های و بیان ژن‌های قلبی دیده شد. در گروه دوم اثر محافظت‌کنندگی قابل توجهی مشاهده نشد. نتیجه‌گیری: تیمار سلول‌های قلبی حاصل از سلول‌های بنیادی جنینی ترانس‌ژنیک موش با دگزامتازون 24 ساعت قبل از تیمار با دوکسوروبیسین باعث پیش‌گیری از مرگ سلول‌های قلبی ناشی از دوکسوروبیسین می‌گردد. نتایج این مطالعه مطابق نتایج مطالعه بر روی سلول‌های قلبی موش بود. بنابراین این سلول‌ها می‌توانند به عنوان مدل آزمایشگاهی مناسبی برای بررسی آثار درمانی و یا سمی داروها مورد استفاده قرار گیرند.

Nursing tacit knowledge is a knowledge that is produced inside the mind of nurses and not saved in any databases. The main challenge of nursing knowledge management is transferring tacit knowledge inside the mind of nurses to the others – especially scholars and researchers. This study evaluates personal, organizational, and technological factors affecting the tacit knowledge transfer among nursing experts. It also assesses the most important ways of tacit knowledge transfer among hospital nurses. This study applied survey method. The population was all nursing experts of Bushehr governmental hospitals nurses which were 480 and finally 215 nurses were selected as the sample. Data collection tool included a researcher-made questionnaire. Descriptive and analytical statistics tests were used. It was revealed that the most important way of tacit knowledge transfer among nursing experts was participating in continuing educational courses. Findings indicated that the most important personal factor affecting tacit knowledge transfer was job security; most important organizational factor was rewards system; and most important technological factor was independent physical environment and educational technologies.

Background: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease of central nerves system, in which neurological disabilities occur in young adults. Despite increasing number of studies on MS, some aspects of this disorder are still unclear. In the previous studies, it has been proven that there is direct relation between MS incidence and vitamin D deficiency. Thereby, strong evidence in MS pathogenesis suggests that endothelial cells (EC) could be harmed in MS. In addition, functional changes in EC and macrovascular injuries lead blood-brain barrier disruption in MS. Current study is the first investigation to elucidate positive influences of vitamin D against EC apoptosis in MS. Methods: Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were cultured and then treated with sera from patients with active MS (in relapse) and sera from healthy volunteer participants as control group (each group n=15). 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-5- (3-carboxymethoxyphenyl)-2-(4-sulfophenyl)-2H-tetrazolium, inner salt (MTS) assay for cell surveillance and cell-death detection kit for evaluating apoptosis were used in this study. Results: There was a significant decrease in apoptosis rate by the serum of patients, just when 1,25(OH) 2 D3 applied before treating HUVECs with sera from active MS (in relapse). Furthermore, the cells surveillance increased markedly with the presence of 1,25(OH)(2)D(3) in culture, too. Conclusion: Withregard to increment in EC apoptosis rate, which treated by the sera from MS patients and decrement in apoptosis rate by the presence of vitamin D in culture media, it could be proposed that vitamin D pre-treatment can be used for MS patients, due to its beneficial effects on protecting EC apoptosis.

Background : Previous studies have shown that morphine consumption during pregnancy may cause delay or defect of embryo development or abnormal nervous system function in the human and animal models. In the present study, the highest density of morphine accumulation in the central nervous system of rat embryos was evaluated using C14-morphine. Methods : Female Wistar rats (W 170-200 g) used and were crossed with male rats and coupling time was recorded (Embryonic day 0-E0). Experimental groups received 0.05 mg/ml of C14-morphine in drinking water daily. On the 10 th and 17 th days of pregnancy, pregnant rats were anesthetized and the embryos with these uterus and placenta were surgically removed and were fixed in formalin 10% for 4 week. Then the embryos were processed, sectioned in 25 ΅m and 5 ΅m thicknesses, fixed on the glasses for further evaluations. The sectioned in 25, the glasses were fixed on the Blanc black and white film for 6 h. Then, the films were appeared and their negatives were prepared. The sectioned in five staining hematoxylin and eosin by light microscope and MOTIC software. Results: Our results indicated that the highest C14-morphine accumulation was observed in the vesicles and the ventricular choroid plexus (CP) of (E17) embryos, whereas, in the (E10) embryos. Highest concentration was observed in the brain vesicles and the ventricular CP. In addition, this study showed the surface area of lateral, 3 rd and 4 th ventricular CP in the experimental groups were increased in compared to control groups. Conclusions: Our results indicated that effects of morphine on reduction of embryos brain development may be due to the highest accumulation of C14-morphine in the CP and brain vesicles.

Background: In adults, throughout life, uniqueness maintains the equivalent; but, it might be tailored in the track of neurological disarrays. As in the partition of cognitive function associated with multiple sclerosis (MS), numerous studies have been performed, but there are very few reports in this area of behavior. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of personality types A and B in relation to individuals′ behaviors with MS and type A behavior with demographic characteristics and the level of disability. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was performed between September 2010 and March 2011 on 50 patients who were referred to MS clinic (located at the Kashani hospital), Isfahan Neurosciences Research Centre (INRC). The subjects were evaluated using Friedman and Rosenman questioner and the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS). The data were analyzed by SPSS software (version 17) based on Chi-square test and independent T-test. Results: Of the subjects, 65% were of personality type A and 35% were of personality type B (X2: 3.5, P < 0.05). There were no significant differences in individuals with type A behavior in relation to gender and marital status. In connection to EDSS (EDSS < 4.5 or EDSS > 4.5), patients with higher EDSS score, i.e., individuals with EDSS > 4.5 mostly had type A behavior pattern. Conclusions: People with type A behavior pattern are reported to have more stress, nervousness, and anxiety. In this study, MS patients had more characteristics of type A than type B behavior. This behavior was increased in individuals with EDSS score >4.5.

Background: The aim of this study was to compare the effects of olanzapine versus haloperidol to control the signs and symptoms of stuttering. Methods: Ninety-three patients were recruited in a 12-week single-blind randomized clinical trial, which was held between October 2009 and October 2010. Forty-three patients received olanzapine (5 mg/day) and 50 patients, haloperidol (2.5 mg/day). Before and after the study, they were evaluated by a speech pathologist by Van Riper`s questionnaire. The data were analyzed using the SPSS version 16. T-test was used to compare the data between the two groups. Results: Mean of stuttering score (SD) before treatment was 4.67 (0.81) and 4.40 (1.14) in haloperidol and olanzapine groups, respectively (P > 0.05). After treatment, the mean (SD) score was 2.87 (1.32) and 1.56 (0.71) in haloperidol and olanzapine groups, respectively (P = 0.000). Conclusions: It seems that olanzapine does have better impact in controlling stuttering, and it may be recommended to prescribe olanzapine for stutters as the first choice to control the stuttering under a careful follow-up.

Background: Alzheimer′s disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease and nowadays the role of endothelial cell (EC) injury has been proposed in pathological process in AD. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPAR-γ) agonist has anti-inflammatory properties through activation in glial cells and improves vascular function and prevent atherosclerotic disease progression. The aim of this study is evaluation of pioglitazone effects as a drug of PPAR-γ agonist on endothelial apoptosis induced by sera from AD patients. Methods: Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were treated with sera from AD patients (n = 10) and sera from controls (n = 10). Apoptosis was identified by annexin V-propidium iodide staining and cell death detection kit. Apoptosis was evaluated after and before adding of 10 ΅M pioglitazone on EC. Nitrite (NO 2 - ) levels were determined in the culture supernatants. Results: Induced apoptosis by the serum of patients was inhibited markedly when pioglitazone used before treating HUVECs with the sera of AD. Also, the measurement of nitrite concentration showed significantly greater levels of dissolved NO 2 /NO3 metabolite in the culture media of HUVECs treated by sera of AD patients (P < 0.05), while the rate of nitric oxide significantly decreased when pioglitazone exists in culture media. Conclusion: Further studies are justified to investigate the novel role of the PPARs in the prevention of the neuronal and endothelial damage in neurological disorder and present a new therapeutic approach for Alzheimer`s patients.

Background: Previous studies confirmed that neural gene expression in embryonic stem cells (ESC) could influence by chemical compounds through stimulating apoptotic pathway. We aimed to use ESCs-derived neural cells by embryoid body formation as an in vitro model for determination of neural gene expression changes in groups that treated by sera from Alzheimer′s patients and compare with healthy individuals. Materials and Methods: ESC line which was derived from the C57BL/6 mouse strain was used throughout this study. ESC-derived neural cells were treated with serum from Alzheimer′s patient and healthy individual. Neural gene expression was assessed in both groups by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction analysis. The data was analyzed by SPSS Software (version 18). Results: Morphologically, the reducing in neurite out-growth was observed in neural cells in group, which treated by serum from Alzheimer′s patient, while neurite growth was natural in appearance in control group. Microtubule-associated protein 2 and glial fibrillary acidic protein expression significantly reduced in the Alzheimer′s patient group compared with the control group. Nestin expression did not significantly differ among the groups. Conclusion: Neural gene expression could be reduced in serum treated ESC in Alzheimer′s patients.

Background: There are contrary results about the role of CACNA1A gene in the causation of common migraine in different populations. However, migraine may be genetically heterogeneous and more studies in different families and populations are required for a definite conclusion. The aim of this study was to surveyed leukocyte genomic DNA mutation of CACNA1A in Iranian migraine patients with [MA] and without aura [MO] who has family history of migraine and we performed a narrative review of all studies that evaluated CACNA1A gene, non-hemiplegic migraine [MA and MO] and FHM [familial hemiplegic migraine]. Materials and Methods: The 30 patients with family history of migraine were selected for mutations analysis for CACNA1A gene by PCR method. For review, we searched MEDLINE-PUBMED, ISI, Scopus and Cochrane databases up to December 2012. Results: Mutation analysis of the 4 exons of the CACNA1A gene in these patients revealed no mutations in this gene. Direct sequencing revealed a polymorphism previously reported G to A transition in the exon 16 [nt2369, G®A] in 9 patients. In review, the correlation of FHM loci [CACNA1A gene] with MA and MO has been showed in different population and only small population from Caucasians presented this correlation. Conclusion : CACNA1A is most likely not a major susceptibility gene for common migraine in Iranian maigrainous. It′s essential to study more on larger series and covering all 47 exons of the CACNA1A gene to confirm this hypothesis.

Introduction: Regarding the social and economic changes and developments, the increasing presence of working women in the present society and their important role in the family, paying more attentions to the importance of maternal role among working women who face multiple roles seems to be necessary. Hence, the process of maternal role among working women has been investigated in this study. Methods: The grounded theory approach is used in this qualitative research. In-depth and unstructured interviews were the main way in collecting the data. Initially, the targeted sampling was started and continued gradually to the data saturation, in the form of theoretical sampling based on the obtained classes. The data was analyzed using Strauss and Corbin analysis. Accuracy and validity by four criteria in this study included: Credibility, dependability, Confirmable potential, Transferability or Fittingness. Results: Data analysis led to the identification of the core variable of role conflict. The main classes of occupied mothers′ experiences included: different pregnancy experience, returning concerns, supportive umbrella, role assignation, role overlap, role strain, gradual acceptance, satisfaction and erosion. Conclusions: The acceptance of numerous roles such as maternal and marital roles by working women creates various role expectations of them from their children, spouses, family and the society which in turn forces them to meet both family and job requirements and expectations; This causes role conflict in working mothers and endure a lot of pressure and stress, that can influences of mental and physical health of the mothers.

Background: N-Methyl-3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) and methamphetamine (MA) from the amphetamine family, which are respectively known as ecstasy and ice, have well-established neurotoxic effects on the serotonergic and dopaminergic systems. Regarding the fact that MDMA and MA are primarily used as recreational drugs and are commonly used during child bearing period, there is a major concern on the embryonic and fetal toxicity of these drugs. We have used different methods for screening models but recently embryonic stem cells give us new method for easier and faster way in evaluation of potential toxicity of drug. Methods: We used embryonic stem cells-derived neuronal cells to determine 50% infectious does (ID50) in both groups. ID50C reflects 50% inhibition of embryonic stem cells on neural differentiation. The effect of MDMA and MA on neural differentiation was assessed during two periods: group 1 (throughout the process of neural differentiation), group 2 (during post-plating). Afterwards, the cells were evaluated for neuronal markers by reverse transcription- polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). A concentration range of MDMA (0.1, 1, 10, 100, 200, 500, 750, 1000µM) and of MA (10, 50, 70, 100, 200,500, 750, 1000 µM) was applied to the cells from day 0 onwards throughout the entire culture duration as described. Findings: Considering the fact that MDMA and MA are potent neurotoxic drugs, we evaluated their effects during neuronal differentiation and on the survival of embryonic derived neurons. The ID50 for neural differentiation was 50 µM and 130 µM, while for neuronal survival was 120 µM and 400 µM, respectively in MDMA and MA groups. At 7 days post-plating, RT-PCR analysis revealed that unlike the nestin, the expression of MAP2 at concentrations higher than 100 and 200 µM of MDMA and 200 and 500 µM of MA in groups 1 and 2, respectively, was significantly reduced. Conclusion: Our findings have documented that early phase of neural development which coincides with neural tube formation is more sensitive than the later phase when neural precursor cells differentiate into mature neurons. Regarding the embryonic stem cells capabilities such as tissue-specific properties especially in the formation of neuroectodermal and mesodermal cells, they could be served as a system to evaluate inhibiting or inducing effects on differentiation processes in early embryonic stages. Keywords: Stem cells, Cell differentiation, Toxicity, N-Methyl-3,4-methylenedioxyamphetamine, Methamphetamine

Background: Alzheimer′s disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease in which endothelial cell (EC) can be affected. In brain, functional changes in ECs contribute to reductions in resting blood flow. Furthermore, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACE-I) have beneficial effects on endothelial dysfunction. This is the first study that presents direct experimental evidence associating endothelial apoptosis as a basis of AD pathogenesis and response to an ACE-I therapy. Materials and Methods: Human umbilical vein ECs (HUVECs) were treated with sera from AD patients and sera from healthy volunteers (each group, n = 10). Apoptosis was determined by annexin V-propidium iodide staining and cell death detection kit. The effect of 50 μM enalapril on endothelial apoptosis was assessed. Nitrite (NO 2− ) levels were determined in the culture supernatants. Results: Enalapril suppressed the induction of apoptosis by the serum of patients only when used before treating HUVECs with the sera of AD. Mean ± SD of apoptosis induction in the control group was 6.7 ± 3.69; in the group treated with sera of AD for 24 h was 47.78 ± 0.65; in the group wherein sera from AD was added (pretreatment) after exposure of HUVECs by 50 μM enalapril for 24 h was 26.6 ± 2.63; and in the group wherein HUVECs were exposed in the sera of AD for 24 h and then 50 μM enalapril was added to these cells for another 24 h (post-treatment) was 56.87 ± 5.51. Also, the mean ± SD of NO 2− concentration showed significantly greater levels of dissolved NO2 /NO3 metabolite in the culture media of untreated HUVECs by enalapril (1.03 ± 0.06) as compared with control (0.26 ± 0.13; P < 0.05), while the rate of nitric oxide (NO) significantly decreased when enalapril was presented in culture both in the pretreatment (0.07 ± 0.003) and in the post-treatment group (0.06 ± 0.005; P < 0.05). Conclusion: It could be concluded that EC treated with sera from AD patients activates apoptosis in HUVECs; this effect was reversed by enalapril pretreatment. This can be proposed as a therapeutic approach for Alzheimer′s patients.

Stroke is an important cause of death in the world and disability world-wide especially in developed countries. Following acute phase of stroke, some procedures and medical treatment such as thrombolytic agents has been recommended; nevertheless many patients have enduring deficits. Thus, there is a realistic need to develop treatment strategies for reducing neurological deficits. However, the stem cell (SC) therapy could arrange an alternative intervention for disease modifying therapy. In this article, we present a brief review of different methods of SC therapy in stroke patients and discuss the results with different cell types and routes of administration.

Background: Methamphetamine (MA) is the most popular recreational drug. According to potential neurotoxicity of this agent, it can cause deleterious effects on neural differentiation of embryo, if MA is used during the child bearing period. In recent decades, undifferentiated pluripotent embryo-derived stem cell lines, resembling early embryonic stages, have been used to analyze the toxic effects of components in vitro. Thus, this study aims at assessing toxic effects of MA on embryonic stem cell (ESC)-derived neuronal cells during differentiation in a pharmacological model. Materials ans Methods : ESC line Royan was used throughout this study. The effect of MA on neural differentiation was assessed during two periods, group 1: MA (10, 100, 200,500, 750, 1000 μM concentrations) was added during EB formation, group 2: MA (10, 50, 70, 100, 200, 500 μM concentrations) was added after the generation of neural precursors. Then cells were evaluated for neuronal markers by immunocytochemistry and RT-PCR. One way ANOVA followed by the post hoc test was used to analyze data. Results: The declining in outgrowth of dendrites was observed in neural morphology in a dose dependent manner. The ID50 (Inhibition of neuronal differentiation) of groups 1 and 2 were 130 and 400 μM, respectively. By using RT-PCR, in comparison with MAP2, no significant change was observed in Nestin expression. Conclusions: Our data on neuronal toxicity were consistent with in vivo and in vitro studies. We concluded that ESCs can be used as an efficient model to assess the toxicity of drugs.

Objective: In previous studies it has been emphasized that the site of morphine action may be either in the embryo or the placenta. In the present study, we attempt to identify the site of morphine action on the fetal section of Wistar rat placenta by using C14-morphine.Materials and Methods: In this study (experimental), female Wistar rats (weights: 170-200 g) were mated with male rats and their coupling times recorded. Experimental groups received daily doses of 0.05 mg/ml of C14-morphine in their drinking water. On the 9th and14th embryonic days, the pregnant rats were anesthetized and the placenta and uterus surgically removed. Placentas were fixed in 10% formalin for two weeks, then processed, sectioned in 5 μm and 25 μm thicknesses, and fixed on glass slides for further evaluation. The 25 μm sections were delivered to black and white film for three days. Films were processed and evaluated with a digital inverse microscope for possible radiological impression. The 5 μm sections were processed for hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining, and evaluated by light microscope and MOTIC software.Results: Our results indicated that the site of action of C14-morphine was possibly located on the blood plexus of the fetal portion of the placenta. In addition, oral morphine consumption was shown to inhibit fetal and maternal placental development in the experimental groups.Conclusion: We conclude that morphine’s effectiveness on the reduction of embryo growth and development may be via its effects on the blood plexus of the fetal section of the placenta.

Background: Previous studies have shown that morphine consumption during pregnancy may delay embryo development or cause abnormal nervous system function. Objective: The present study focused on the effect of maternal morphine consumption on development of placenta and blood corticosteron concentration in addictive pregnant mothers.Materials and Methods: 24 female rats, 170-200g weight, were used. The experimental groups after pregnancy received an oral dose of 0.05 mg/ml of morphine by tap water while the control group received only tap water. On 10th and 14th day of pregnancy, rats were anesthetized and placenta removed surgically, 1ml blood was collected from each pregnant mother from retro-orbital sinus, the concentration of blood corticosteron was determined by corticosteron Elisa kit after centrifugation. The fixed tissue was processed, sectioned and stained with hematoxylin and eosin. Placenta was studied microscopically according to the thickness of layers, area of blood cisterns, and the number of cells.Results: Comparing the plasma corticosteron concentration of the treatment and the control groups, not only a severe increase in the treatment group was detected, but also the thickness of maternal and embryonic portions of the placenta at day 10th and 14th of gestation was different significantly (p≤0.05). Furthermore, an increase in number of cells in maternal and embryonic portion of placenta and a decrease in blood cistern area were demonstrated in both the experimental and the control groups.Conclusion: The effects of morphine, including an increase in blood concentration of corticosteron, in dependent pregnant mothers were seen. Development of placenta in the experimental group was delayed.

Objective: Previous studies, focusing on the effects of abused drugs, have used miceor rats as the main animal models; the present study tries to introduce a simple animalmodel. For this propose, we investigated the effects of oral morphine consumption byparents on the development of larvae, pupae and imago in Drosophila Melanogaster (D.Melanogaster).Materials and Methods: In this experimental study, twenty male and 20 female D. Melanogasterpupae were housed in test tubes with banana (5 pupae /tube). Male and femalegroups each were divided into three experimental group and one control group, whichwere maintained at 25°C. Morphine (0.2, 0.02, 0.002 mg/ml) was added into the test tubesof the experimental groups. The control group maintained at morphine-free test tube. Themale and female groups with the same treatment were coupled and then female fertilization,egg deposit, larval, pupae and imago stages were studied macro and microscopically.The SPSS software (version 9.01) was used for statistical evaluations.Results: In the experimental groups, in the larvae stage, both increase and decrease oflength and surface area in the pupae stage were observed. The number of larvae pupae,and imago was reduced in the experimental groups.Conclusion: The study showed that oral morphine consumption by parents may affect thedevelopment of larvae, pupation and imago stages in D. Melanogaster. The results alsoshowed that D. Melanogaster may be a reliable animal

Objective: Previous studies have shown that morphine consumption during pregnancymay delay embryo development or cause abnormal nervous system function. The presentstudy focused on the effects of maternal morphine consumption on brain cavities andcentral canal development in Wistar rats.Materials and Methods: In this study Wistar rats (average weight: 170-200 g) were used.The experimental group, after pregnancy, received 0.05 mg/ml of morphine by tap waterwhile the control group received water. On the 17th day of pregnancy, the pregnant animalswere anesthetized by chloroform and embryos were surgically removed. The sampleswere fixed in 10% formalin for four weeks. Then, tissues were processed and sectioned.Sections were stained with hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) and examined for ventricle, centralcanal and choroid plexus development by light microscopy and MOTIC software.Results: Severe reductions of the third and lateral ventricles were observed in the experimentalgroup. In addition, an increase in the choroid plexus (CP) area in the experimentalgroup with regards to the control group was identified.Conclusion: The study showed that oral morphine consumption lead to reduction in thethird and lateral brain cavities and an increase in the CP area. This defect may cause behavioralchanges observed in the F1 generation from addicted pregnant animals.

The World Wide Web is an important information source for scholarly communications. Examining the inlinks via webometrics studies has attracted particular interests among information researchers. In this study, the number of inlinks to 69 ISI medical journals retrieved by Yahoo, AltaVista, and All The web Search Engines were examined via a comparative and Webometrics study. For data analysis, SPSS software was employed. Findings revealed that British Medical Journal website attracted the most links of all in the three search engines. There is a significant correlation between the number of External links and the ISI impact factor. The most significant correlation in the three search engines exists between external links of Yahoo and AltaVista (100%) and the least correlation is found between external links of All The web & the number of pages of AltaVista (0.51). There is no significant difference between the internal links & the number of pages found by the three search engines. But in case of impact factors, significant differences are found between these three search engines. So, the study shows that journals with higher impact factor attract more links to their websites. It also indicates that the three search engines are significantly different in terms of total links, outlinks and web impact factors

Background and Purpose: Fertility behavior is affected by various factors. Health workers have a great share in educational programs on fertility behaviors, hence identifying the fertility behaviors of staffs working in health centers is necessary. The aim of this study was to assess socio-cultural and economic factors influencing fertility behavior of staffs in health centers in the northern parts of Iran. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was performed through census on 118 health workers from healthcare services in Juybar, a city in north of Iran. A valid and reliable questionnaire including demographic characteristics and 27 closed questions about the participant's attitudes toward fertility (cultural, social, economic, and individual) in the Likert scale were used. The Cronbach's alpha coefficient was found to be 0.75. The attitude score was also ranged from 27 to 135. The T-test and one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) were performed in SPSS (V17). Result: There was no statistically significant difference between the tendency to fertility and the variables, such as wife's job, wife's educational level, abortions, the number of pregnancy, and the number of alive children. However, there was a statistically significant difference between tendency to fertility based on cultural attitude and residency status (p=0.04), income (p=0.04), and work experience (p=0.005). Conclusion: The findings from our study support that, various factors play important roles in the formation of tendency to the fertility, among the most important ones are individual factors. The results also revealed that making any demographic and educational policy by the stakeholders requires that all factors be taken into consideration.

Previous studies have shown that morphine abuse during pregnancy cancause a delay in the development of the placenta and embryo and also bring about birth defects. The present study investigates the effect of the duration of maternal morphine consumption during pregnancy, as well as the impacts of morphine abuse on the development of placental layers during the three different periods of pregnancy in Wistar rats. Materials and Methodology. Female Wistar rats have been used in the present study. Experimental groups received morphine (0.05 mg/mL of drinking water) after one night of coupling with male rats for mating. On 9th, 10th, and 14th days of pregnancy, pregnant animals were killed, and placentas were removed and fixed. The cells of the placentas layers were calculated by light microscope and MOTIC and SPSS software. Results. The maternal surface thickness of the placenta was significantly increased, whereasthe fetal surface thickness of placenta was significantly decreased with morphine consumption with a time-dependent manner in experimental groups, compared to control groups. Moreover, the number of trophoblast cells increased in both maternal and fetal surfaces of placenta with respect to the duration of morphine consumption which was overt in the experimental groups compared to the control groups. Conclusion. In general, the time-dependent effects of oral morphine consumption can inhibit the development and natural functioning of cytotrophoblast and syncytiotrophoblast cells of the placental layers.

Background: Multiple sclerosis may have profound emotional consequences. The relation between psychological and physical factors could lead patients toward unforeseen disease. This study focuses on multiple sclerosis (MS) disease duration on personality type A and B in relation to individuals' behaviors. Materials and Methods: This descriptive-analytical study was conducted in Isfahan Alzahra hospital in 2013. Three hundred MS patients and 100 healthy individuals were determined. The distributed questionnaires related to MS patients and considering the descriptive statistics such as demographic variables. Data were analyzed by SPSS software (version 18) based on Chi-square test and independent T-test. Results: Disease duration varied between 1 to 38 years: 30% (1-4 years), 38% (5-10 years), 20% (10-20 years), and 12% (more than 20 years). Significant relationship was observed between disease duration and tendency to type A (higher stress). This relation was positive and significant in Relapsing Remitting MS patients; but negative correlation was seen in Secondary Progressive MS patients. These patients tended to type B (lower stress) when disease duration increased. Conclusions: Individuals with disease duration of one year and less than one year tend to type A personality, while patients with increment of disease duration have tendency to type B.

Parkinson disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disease of the central nervous system (CNS) with the highest prevalence in adults over 60 years of age On the other hand multiple sclerosis (MS), which mostly affects individuals between 20 and 40 years of age, is another neurodegenerative and autoimmune disease of the CNS, however, less common than PD. Here we aim to report the case of a 39-year-old woman, who developed PD 18 years after diagnosis of MS.

Background: The second leading cause of cancer deaths in women is breast cancer. Germline mutations in susceptibility breast cancer gene BRCA1 increase the lifetime risk of breast cancer. Eighty-one large genomic rearrangements (LGRs) have been reported up to date in BRCA1 gene, and evaluation of these rearrangements helps with precise risk assessment in high-risk individuals. In this study, we have investigated LGRs in BRCA1 among Iranian high-risk breast cancer families. Materials and Methods: Seventy patients with breast cancer who were identified negative for point mutations or small deletions/insertions of BRCA1 gene were selected. Deletions and duplications of BRCA1 gene were evaluated using multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification (MLPA). Results: Two deletions, deletion of exons 1A/1B-2 and exon 24, were detected in two patients with breast cancer. The former alteration was found in a woman with a strong family history of breast cancer while the latter one was detected in a woman with early onset of breast cancer. Conclusion: Although our data confirm that LGRs in BRCA1 comprise a relatively small proportion of mutations in hereditary breast cancer in the Iranian population, MLPA analysis might be considered for screening of LGRs in high-risk individuals. It is worth to note that our results are consistent with previous studies in various Asian and European countries.

Background: Trace elements have long been suspected to be involved in Parkinson's disease (PD) pathogenesis, but their exact roles have been remained controversial. In this study, we assessed the levels of copper (Cu), iron (Fe) and zinc (Zn) in different stage of PD patients. Materials and Methods: Serum concentrations of iron, copper and zinc were measured in 109 patients with PD by colorimetric methods. Staging of the disease was evaluated according to Hoehn and Yahr (H and Y) and Unified PD Rating Scale III (UPDRS). Results: Severity values of PD measured by UPRDSIII and HY stages with mean ± SD were 22.9 ± 1.81 and 1.8 ± 1.1, respectively. Mean ± SD values of iron, zinc and copper are 100.7 ± 289.2, 68.3 ± 5.32, and 196.8 ± 162.1 μg/dl, respectively. Serum iron level in most of the patients was normal (76.6%). Whereas zinc concentration in most participants was below the normal range (64.5%) and serum Cu in the majority of patients had a high normal concentration (42.7%) and did not significantly differ among various PD stages. Conclusion: The result of this study does not confirm strong correlation between PD stages and serum levels of tested trace elements. The actual correlations between these elements and PD and whether modulating of these agents levels could be an effective approach in the treatment of this disease remain to be elucidated.

The complexity of multiple sclerosis (MS) and the incompetence of a large number of promised treatments for MS urge us to plan new and more effective therapeutic approaches that aim to suppress ongoing autoimmune responses and induction of local endogenous regeneration. Emerging data propose that hematopoietic, mesenchymal, and neural stem cells have the potential to restore self-tolerance, provide in situ immunomodulation and neuroprotection, as well as promote regeneration. Thus, in this article, we will first provide an overview of the cell sources for proposed mechanisms that contribute to the beneficial effects of stem cell transplantation, the ideal route and/or timing of stem cell-based therapies for each main stem cell group, and finally, an overview of the current status of stem cell research in clinical trial stages in MS by comparable and healthy therapeutic effects of different stem cell therapies for MS patients.

Background: Recently, tissue engineering has developed approaches for repair and restoration of damaged skeletal system based on different scaffolds and cells. This study evaluated the ability of differentiated osteoblasts from adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) seeded into hydroxyapatite/tricalcium phosphate (HA-TCP) to repair bone. Methods: In this study, ADSCs of 6 canines were seeded in HA-TCP and differentiated into osteoblasts in osteogenic medium in vitro and bone markers evaluated by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was applied for detection of cells in the pores of scaffold. HA-TCP with differentiated cells as the test group and without cells as the cell-free group were implanted in separate defected sites of canine′s tibia. After 8 weeks, specimens were evaluated by histological, immunohistochemical methods, and densitometry test. The data were analyzed using the SPSS 18 version software. Results: The expression of Type I collagen and osteocalcin genes in differentiated cells were indicated by RT-PCR. SEM results revealed the adhesion of cells in scaffold pores. Formation of trabecular bone confirmed by histological sections that revealed the thickness of bone trabecular was more in the test group. Production of osteopontin in extracellular matrix was indicated in both groups. Densitometry method indicated that strength in the test group was similar to cell-free group and natural bone (P > 0.05). Conclusions: This research suggests that ADSCs-derived osteoblasts in HA-TCP could be used for bone tissue engineering and repairing.

Background: The role of endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) in the maintenance of vascularization following ischemic brain after experimental stroke has been established. Accordingly, in this study, we evaluated the role of circulating EPCs in transient ischemic attack (TIA) patients for future cerebrovascular (CV) events. Materials and Methods: The level of circulating EPCs (staining markers: CD34, CD309) were determined using flow cytometry at 24 h after TIA in thirty consecutive patients. The EPCs level was also evaluated once in thirty healthy volunteers. Over a period of 12 months, all patients were evaluated by an experienced neurologist for recurrent TIA, stroke or death induced by CV disorders. Results: Circulating EPCs increased in patients group following the first attack of TIA when compared with controls. By analysis of covariance, cardiovascular event history, hyperlipidemia, and statin therapy remained significant independent predictors of EPCs. The mean (standard deviation) duration of follow-up was 10.5 (3.1) months (range, 2–12 months). During follow-up, a total of three patients died due to CV accident and four patients experienced again recurrent TIA. By analyzing data with Cox regression, EPC did not predict the future CV events in TIA patients. Conclusion: Increased incidence of future CV events did not occur in those patients with elevated EPCs in the first attack of TIA. The significant predicting factors of EPCs were cardiovascular event history, hyperlipidemia, and statin therapy.