bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Dry Needling on Pain in Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis
Authors: Amani Mohammad , Shafizadegan Zohreh , Taheri Navid
Published: October 2023

Background:

Osteoarthritis is one of the most common rheumatological diseases and is also considered as one of the causes of myofascial trigger points (MtrPs). Dry needling (DN) is one of the methods used for the treatment of the MtrPs. The aim of the current study was to investigate the effects of DN on pain in participants with knee osteoarthritis (KOA).

Materials and Methods:

In this before and after preliminary clinical trial study, patients with mild to moderate KOA were enrolled. In one session, after determining the location of trigger points in quadriceps and gastrocnemius muscles, the patients underwent DN. The pain was evaluated at baseline, by passing 4 days and 1 month from the intervention using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS).

Results:

Sixteen patients with a mean age of 56.5 (4.53) years old have completed the study and follow-up period. According to the ANOVA analysis, VAS values indicated a significant decrease in pain score at the 4th and 1 month after the intervention compared to baseline (P < 0.001). There was no significant difference between VAS at the 4th day of intervention and also 1 month later of intervention (P = 0.087).

Conclusion:

The application of one session DN can lead to improvement in pain intensity in participants with mild to moderate KOA.
Differential Radiographic Chest Findings in COVID-19 Positive Patients with and Without Comorbidities
Authors: Mohan Akul , Rastogi Rajul , Agarwal Amit , Patnayak Gaurav , Neha  , Pratap Vijai , Pathak Satish , Jain Anshul , Dugad Kush
Published: October 2023

Background:

The pandemic of Covid-19 resulted in significant morbidity and mortality, especially in those with pre-existing diseases like diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular diseases, etc., primarily due to extensive pulmonary involvement. The chest radiograph is the first imaging tool used in all Covid-19 patients. Hence, in this study, we attempt to understand and evaluate the role of the chest radiograph in Covid-19 patients with and without coexisting diseases.

Materials and Methods:

Our study included RTPCR-positive Covid-19 patients with comorbidities (560 cases) and without comorbidities (145 controls), viz. diabetes mellitus, hypertension, coronary artery disease, or thyroid disease. All controls and cases had chest radiographs with simple fractional zonal scores in a predesigned proforma. Statistical evaluation of chest radiograph scores was compared with and within groups.

Results:

Among the controls, approximately 63.5% revealed pulmonary findings on chest radiographs contrary to 77% among cases. No statistical differences were noted among controls and cases based on age and gender. The presence of pleural effusion was noted as a significant factor affecting the score and hence the prognosis in both controls and cases. Statistically significant differences were noted in SFZ scores between controls and various case groups.

Conclusion:

Chest radiograph scores in Covid-19 disease are higher in patients with comorbidities at the time of presentation, most marked in those with both hypertension and thyroid disease followed by those with hypertension and coronary artery disease. Lower zone predominance is seen in all patients including those with and without comorbidities. The chest radiograph scores become statistically significant with more than one existing comorbidity.
Inflammatory Breast Cancer in a 53-Year-Old Man
Authors: Moayeri Hassan , Rezagholi Payman
Published: October 2023

Diagnosing breast cancer (BC) in early stages increases the chances of treating this cancer in men. However, because BC is very rare in men, especially inflammatory BC (IBC), it is unlikely that screening men for BC by mammography or other tests would yield promising outcomes. The aim of this study was to report IBC in a 53-year-old man. The case was a 53-year-old man with a history of mass in the left breast and trauma to the same side as well as swelling and severe redness of the breast skin. The patient underwent neoadjuvant chemotherapy and relative responded to medical treatment. He then underwent modified mastectomy surgery and initial chest wall repair followed by radiotherapy. IBC in men is challenging due to its rarity, unknown biological behaviors, and difficulty in early diagnosis. This tumor is usually detected in advanced stages in the elderly and has a poor prognosis.
Prevalence Rate of Hearing Loss in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Almasi Simin , Mehrabian Fatemeh , Rahbar Nariman , Maleki Delarestaghi Mojtaba
Published: October 2023

Background:

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a common chronic inflammatory disorder that can be associated with some hearing impairments. Hence, we aimed to evaluate the prevalence rate of hearing loss (HL) in RA patients.

Materials and Methods:

This study included 130 participants from February 2019 to March 2020 including 100 RA patients (78 females and 22 males) as RA group and 30 healthy cases (16 females and 14 males) as control group. All patients underwent pure tone audiometry, speech audiometry, tympanometry, acoustic reflex, and tone decay test by single operator and device. The rate of HL and contributing factors were then determined.

Results:

The mean age of RA group was 53.95 ± 7.6 years, and the mean duration of disease was 12.74 years. Rheumatoid factor was positive in 54% of patients, and the frequency rates of diabetes, chronic kidney disease, hypertension, and dyslipidemia among RA patients were 14%, 1%, 26%, and 19%, respectively. These values among RA patients with HL were 18%, 1.7%, 34%, and 27.5%, respectively. HL in RA patients was related to dyslipidemia (P = 0.011) and age (P = 0.0001). Frequency rate of conductive HL in left and right ears was 2% and 5%, respectively, and these rates for sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) were 55% and 61%, respectively. In addition, the percent of HL in low, mid, and high frequency ranges was 18%, 19%, and 57%, respectively.

Conclusions:

The findings of the present research demonstrate that HL especially with SNHL and high-frequency types is common among RA patients.
Comparative Evaluation of the Effect of Aloe Vera Gel, Olive Oil, and Compound Aloe Vera Gel-Olive Oil on Prevention of Pressure Ulcer
Authors: Fallahi Masoud , Soroush Ali , Sadeghi Narges , Mansouri Feizollah , Mobaderi Tofigh , Mahdavikian Somayeh
Published: October 2023

Background:

One of the most common problems in the intensive care units (ICUs) is pressure ulcers (PUs). The present study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of aloe vera gel, olive oil, and compound aloe vera gel-olive oil in the prevention of PUs.

Materials and Methods:

This randomized clinical trial was conducted on 240 patients. They were randomly divided into four groups, aloe vera gel (n = 60), olive oil (n = 60), aloe vera gel-olive oil combination (n = 60), and control (n = 60). Braden scale and National Pressure Ulcer Advisory Panel scale were used to collect data. The intervention was performed for 30 days. In the intervention and control groups, the patient received routine care. In each intervention group, 10–15 ml of olive oil or aloe vera gel or a combination of olive oil and aloe vera was rubbed into body areas under pressure.

Results:

There were no PUs detected in all groups before the intervention; after the intervention, 12 patients in the olive group, 20 patients in the aloe vera group, 10 patients in the aloe vera-olive combination group, and 22 patients in the control group developed PUs. The results reported 40% of the patients with stage 1 PU and 10% of them with stage 2.

Conclusion:

Due to the effectiveness of olive oil and aloe vera-olive oil combination in preventing PU, it is recommended to use these herbal compounds in preventing PU on ICU patients.
A Study to Assess and Correlate Metabolic Parameters with Carotid Intima-Media Thickness after Combined Approach of Yoga Therapy Among Prediabetics
Authors: Saboo Neha , Kacker Sudhanshu
Published: October 2023

Background:

Prediabetes is an intermediate hyperglycemia in which the fasting blood glucose (FBG) level is greater than normal (100–125 mg/dl) but lower than diabetic levels (more than 125 mg/dl). The aim of the present study was to evaluate and correlate the impact of the combined approach of yoga therapy (CAYT) on carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT) and metabolic parameters including FBG, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1C), and lipid profile-like triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC), and high-density lipoprotein (HDL).

Materials and Methods:

Experimental Interventional study was conducted on a total of 250 prediabetics divided into the control (n = 125) and study group (n = 125) at “RUHS College of Medical Sciences and associated hospitals.” Assessments were made at baseline and after six months of the CAYT. The study group (n = 125) was engaged in the CAYT, which consists of yoga, dietary modification, counseling, and follow-up. The control group not participated in CAYT.

Result:

Mean age of participants was 45.3 ± 5.4 years. Pearson correlation analysis of CIMT and metabolic parameters which were fasting blood sugar, HbA1C, and lipid parameters (TC, TG, and HDL) showed that significant positive correlation with FBG (r = .880), HbA1C (r = .514), TC (r = .523), TG (r = .832), and negative correlation with HDL (r = ˗0.591) after six months of CAYT.

Conclusion:

This study demonstrated that after six months of CAYT metabolic parameters, CIMT were significantly decreased. We have observed a significant correlation exists between CIMT and metabolic parameters. Therefore, regular CIMT measurement might be beneficial for the assessment of cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk and facilitate better use of treatment modalities in prediabetics.
Unmasking Hypoxia in Cirrhosis Patients
Authors: Singhai Abhishek , Mallik Manaswinee , Jain Pragya
Published: October 2023

Background:

Hepatopulmonary syndrome (HPS) is one of the complications of advanced cirrhosis which has a serious impact on prognosis of patient. Finding arterial deoxygenation early and initiating higher-level treatment is one of the most critical strategies in the therapy of HPS. In this study, we aimed to assess the utility of six-minute walk test (6MWT) in the diagnosis of HPS.

Materials and Methods:

We have enrolled 100 consecutive cirrhosis patients referred to the Liver Clinic of a tertiary care centre of India for >1 year. The Child-Pugh score and the MELD score were used to determine the severity of cirrhosis. All the patients underwent transthoracic contrast echocardiography, arterial blood gas measurements on room air, 6MWT, and chest imaging.

Results:

A total of 100 patients were included in the study after fulfilling the inclusion criteria. HPS was present in 21 out of 100 patients (21%). Median (twenty fifth to seventy fifth percentile) MELD score in patients with HPS was 29 (26–33), which was significantly higher as compared to patients without HPS 22 (14.5–26); P <.0001. The 6MWT was positive in 20 (95.23%) HPS patients, while only 1 patient (4.77%) of HPS had negative 6MWT. If 6MWT is positive, then there was 76.92% probability of HPS and if 6MWT is negative, then 98.65% chances of no HPS.

Conclusion:

The 6MWT is a simple and effective screening test for HPS, it helps in identifying the patients early who have a potential to deteriorate. This simple intervention would help in prioritizing patients for liver transplantation as liver transplant is the only effective treatment for HPS.
The Effects of Seed Extract of Carrot on Memory, Nerve Conduction Velocity, and Serum Thyroxin in Rats
Authors: Jafarinejad Bajestani Majid , Hadjdzadeh Mousa-Al-Reza , Yousefi Mahdi , Hosseini Mahmoud , Yousefvand Shiba
Published: October 2023

Background:

Thyroid hormones are essential to maintain the tissue's metabolism throughout the life. Thyroid hormones exert their effects on physiology and almost all body functions. Carrot is a rich source of iodine and carotenoids that can interfere in the synthesis of thyroid hormones.

Materials and Methods:

The present study was designed to investigate the effects of carrot consumption on T4 levels and its effect on memory, nerve conduction velocity (NCV), animal weight, and finally, on water and food intake in Wistar rats. In this study, 24 male rats were used and divided into three groups: Control, Ca 200 mg/kg, and Ca 400 mg/kg.

Results:

The results indicated that carrot consumption at Ca 200 mg/kg treated group increased the level of serum T4 and induced hyperthyroidism. Animal weight in both treated groups did not change compared to the control group (P > 0.05). Water and food consumption, and the level of T4 in Ca 200 mg/kg group increased when compared to the control group (P < 0.05). NCV in both treated groups was not significantly different in comparison with the control group (P > 0.05). Spatial memory and passive avoidance memory in both treated groups significantly decreased compared to the control group (P < 0.05).

Conclusion:

Carrot consumption, via increases the synthesis of thyroid hormones, creates hyperthyroidism, but due to induced moderate hyperthyroidism did not impact on weight. Moderate hyperthyroidism induced appetite and memory impairment. Then increased food intake or effect of hyperthyroidism on metabolism increased water intake.
The Impact of Individual Factors on Health Information-Seeking Behavior of Infertile Couples Undergoing Assisted Reproductive Technologies: Longo Model
Authors: Alishan Karami Nader , Latifi Masoomeh , Berahmand Nilofar , Eini Fatemeh , Al-Suqri Mohammed N.
Published: October 2023

Background:

This study investigated the impact of individual factors on the Health information-seeking behavior (HISB) of infertile couples undergoing Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART).

Materials and Methods:

This applied study was done using the descriptive-analytical method. The population of the study remains to be infertile couples undergoing ART referred to a public Infertility Center and a private one in Bandar Abbas (capital of Hormozgan province, Southern Iran) in the summer of 2020. Using simple random sampling, 168 people were selected. The data collection tool was a questionnaire extracted from Longo HISB Model, used after validation and reliability. Data were analyzed by SPSS software using descriptive and inferential tests.

Results:

The results showed that individual factors (gender, education, income, age, and cause of infertility) affect the HISB of infertile couples. Based on the analysis of variance, there was a significant difference between infertile couples concerning Passive Information Receipt (F = 2.688 and P = 0.048) so the couples with a male cause used Passive Information Receipt more.

Conclusions:

Considering the results, it is necessary for the country's health system to take appropriate measures to provide an appropriate situation for better decision-making for infertile couples and improve the chances of fertility by reducing the existing inequalities to Active Information Receipt and quality health information.
Delirium in a Child in Pediatric Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Zibanejad Nazanin
Published: October 2023

Delirium is a syndrome with an acute onset that is accompanied by fluctuation and is associated with behaviors that indicate impaired consciousness and cognition. It is common and costly and is associated with severe functional decline and distress in an adult. However, its detection and diagnosis are so challenging in children. Herein, we report a 2-year-old girl who was admitted in the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) with pneumonia and was intubated because of respiratory failure. She needed a lot of benzodiazepine and opioid drugs to be sedated. During hospital course after extubation, she developed by agitation and restlessness and dissociation from environment. Electroencephalography was done and diffuse generalized slow wave was observed. Finally, by environmental factors' correction, benzodiazepine decreasing, and risperidone administering, she became well and discharged. Delirium should be considered as an important, underdiagnosed, and common condition in the PICU. It should be considered in altered cognition, consciousness, and circadian rhythm disturbance situation in children.
Identification of Significant Genes and Pathways Associated with Tenascin-C in Cancer Progression by Bioinformatics Analysis
Authors: Rahimmanesh Ilnaz , Fatehi Razieh , Khanahmad Hossein
Published: October 2023

Background:

Tenascin-C (TNC) is a large glycoprotein of the extracellular matrix which associated with poor clinical outcomes in several malignancies. TNC over-expression is repeatedly observed in several cancer tissues and promotes several processes in tumor progression. Until quite recently, more needs to be known about the potential mechanisms of TNC as a key player in cancer progression and metastasis.

Materials and Methods:

In the present study, we performed a bioinformatics analysis of breast and colorectal cancer expression microarray data to survey TNC role and function with holistic view. Gene expression profiles were analyzed to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between normal samples and cancer biopsy samples. The protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks of the DEGs with CluePedia plugin of Cytoscape software were constructed. Furthermore, after PPI network construction, gene-regulatory networks analysis was performed to predict long noncoding RNAs and microRNAs associated with TNC and cluster analysis was performed. Using the Clue gene ontology (GO) plugin of Cytoscape software, the GO and pathway enrichment analysis were performed.

Results:

PPI and DEGs-miRNA-lncRNA regulatory networks showed TNC is a significant node in a huge network, and one of the main gene with high centrality parameters. Furthermore, from the regulatory level perspective, TNC could be significantly impressed by miR-335-5p. GO analysis results showed that TNC was significantly enriched in cancer-related biological processes.

Conclusions:

It is important to identify the TNC underlying molecular mechanisms in cancer progression, which may be clinically useful for tumor-targeting strategies. Bioinformatics analysis provides an insight into the significant roles that TNC plays in cancer progression scenarios.
Effect of 5'-Fluoro-2'-Deoxycytidine and Sodium Butyrate on the Gene Expression of the Intrinsic Apoptotic Pathway, p21, p27, and p53 Genes Expression, Cell Viability, and Apoptosis in Human Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cell Lines
Authors: Sanaei Masumeh , Kavoosi Fraidoon , Safari Mohsen
Published: October 2023

Background:

Epigenetic mechanisms play an important role in the regulation of gene expression and genetic information. DNA methyltransferases are a family of enzymes that methylate DNA at the promoter region of the gene which can significantly contribute to gene silencing and carcinogenesis. In addition, histone deacetylation leads to gene silencing and tumorigenesis. Our previous work indicated that histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors can induce its apoptotic role through down-regulation of HDACs. This study aimed to investigate the effect of 5'-fluoro-2'-deoxycytidine (FdCyd) and sodium butyrate on the genes of intrinsic apoptotic pathway (BAX, BAK and APAF1, Bcl-2, and Bcl-xL), p21, p27, and p53 gene expression, cell viability, and apoptosis in human hepatocellular carcinoma Hep3B, SMMC-7721, and HA22T/VGH cell lines.

Materials and Methods:

The Hep3B, SMMC-7721, and HA22T/VGH cells were cultured and treated with FdCyd and sodium butyrate. To determine cell viability, cell apoptosis, and the relative gene expression level, MTT assay, flow cytometry assay, and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction were done, respectively.

Results:

Both compounds induced significant cell growth inhibition and cell apoptosis significantly (P < 0.0001). Sodium butyrate up-regulated the BAX, BAK, APAF1, p21, p27, and p53 and down-regulated Bcl-2, and Bcl-xL significantly in all three cell lines. Similar results were observed in the Hep3B, and SMMC-7721 cell lines treated with FdCyd. It has no significant effect on p53 gene expression in HA22T/VGH. The expression of the other genes in this cell line was similar to other cell lines.

Conclusion:

Both compounds induced their roles through the intrinsic apoptotic pathway to induce cell apoptosis.
Hypothyroidism Evaluation after Radiotherapy of Breast and Supraclavicular in Patients with Breast Cancer
Authors: Karimijavid Mohammad R. , Pashaki Abdolazim S. , Borzouei Shiva , Khanlarzadeh Elham , Gholami Mohammad H. , Nikzad Safoora
Published: October 2023

Background:

This study aims to evaluate the risk of hypothyroidism (HT) after radiotherapy (RT) of breast and supraclavicular in patients with breast cancer (BC).

Materials and Methods:

In a historical cohort study, the records of all patients with BC who had been referred to the Mahdieh radiotherapy Center of Hamadan from 2017 to 2019 were reviewed. Demographic characteristics, clinical information, previous and current used treatment methods (surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy), number of RT sessions and doses, and HT (TSH >5 mIU/L) were extracted from the patient's documents. Data were analyzed using SPSS software version 16.

Results:

Out of 304 patients referred to the Center, 266 patients were investigated. The mean TSH was 6.3 ± 7.9 ml/L (1.5 to 65.4). Approximately half of the patients were in Stage 2 of the disease. 37 (16.4%) patients were diagnosed with HT, of which 8.8% were clinical, and 7.5% were subclinical. The mean total dose of HT patients (5621.62 ± 491.67) was significantly higher than other patients (5304.76 ± 937.98). 21 patients (56.8%) in Stage 3 and 4 and 16 (43.2%) patients in Stages 1 and 2 had HT (P = 0.006). Spearman correlation coefficient showed that there was a significant relationship between total dose and TSH hormone (r = 0.624), the number of RT sessions with TSH hormone (r = 0.237), and total dose with T4 hormone (r = -0.232).

Conclusion:

The findings of this study showed that the risk of HT increases significantly in patients with BC who undergo RT of breast and supraclavicular. Patients with higher stage, more radiation, and more RT sessions are at higher risk of HT.
Toll-Like Receptor 7 a Novel Non-Invasive Inflammatory Genetic Sensor for Ulcerative Colitis Remission Monitoring
Authors: Asadzadeh-Aghdaei Hamid , Rejali Leili , Nourian Mahyar , Chaleshi Vahid , Zamani Naghmeh , Baradaran-Ghavami Shaghayegh , Nemati Mohsen , Shahrokh Shabnam , Norouzinia Mohsen , Vosough Massoud , Nazemalhosseini-Mojarad Ehsan , Zali Mohammadreza
Published: October 2023

Background:

Ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease (CD) are two major types of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs). Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are expressed in the innate immune system compartments, in charge of identifying a wide range of microorganisms. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the expression of TLR-2, -7, and -8 in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) of UC patients as a novel non-invasive primary inflammation sensor for monitoring the clinical course of UC candidates.

Materials and Methods:

In this cross-sectional study, total RNA was extracted from the PBMC of 42 UC patients along with 20 healthy donors. The mRNA levels of TLR-2, -7, and -8 were assessed using the quantitative real-time polymerase chain (qRT-PCR) reaction.

Results:

The present research study demonstrated no significant changes in TLR-2 mRNA expression in UC patients in comparison with the control group (P = 0.1264), whereas significant elevation (P = 0.0008) was distinguished in the TLR-7 expression of UC participants specifically during the remission course compared with healthy donors and flareup patients (P = 0.0004 and P = 0.0063, respectively). The last selected TLR, TLR-8 was not shown remarkable changes either between UC patients and the control group or between clinical courses of the disease.

Conclusion:

Here, among three nominated TLRs for predicting UC patients, TLR-7 was potentially selected according to the significant difference in mRNA expression in flareup UC patients and control donors. TLR-7 could be used as a novel non-invasive biomarker for monitoring UC patients in the active course of the disease.
Comparison between the Effects of Acetaminophen, Dexmedetomidine, and Normal Saline Infusion on Pain Severity after Cataract Surgery
Authors: Moradi Farsani Dariush , Mortazavi Seyed Ali-Akbar , Masjedi Sanaz , Heidari Sayed Morteza , Nazemroaya Behzad
Published: October 2023

Background:

Cataract surgery is one of the most common eye surgeries, which is currently performed under topical anesthesia using sedative medications. Dexmedetomidine and acetaminophen are good candidates for analgesia in other circumstances, however, this study aimed to evaluate the effect of dexmedetomidine or acetaminophen infusion and normal saline (NS) alone compared with the control group on the severity of pain in cataract surgery.

Materials and Methods:

In this parallel randomized controlled clinical trial, the effect of dexmedetomidine or acetaminophen infusion and NS on level of pain, vital signs, recovery status, and surgeon satisfaction during cataract surgery were assessed. One hundred and thirty-five patients between the age of 50–80 years undergoing cataract surgery were recruited on a consecutive basis and randomized into three groups receiving acetaminophen (15 mg/kg), dexmedetomidine (0.5 μgr/kg), and NS. Baseline vital signs, blood pressure, arterial oxygen saturation, respiratory and heart rate at certain time-points including the start of surgery, 5, 10, and 15 min after surgery, after arrival to the recovery room, 20, 40, 60 min after recovery were measured. Pain intensity and drugs side effects were also recorded after surgery.

Results:

Level of respiratory depression was higher in patients receiving dexmedetomidine. Heart rate and oxygen saturation percentage had no significant differences in the three groups as well as pain intensity.

Conclusions:

Acetaminophen was as effective as dexmedetomidine with lower side effects and higher surgeons’ satisfaction, without any interference with cardiovascular and respiratory parameters. Acetaminophen infusion should be considered as an acceptable analgesic drug for cataract surgery.
The Relationship Between Body Mass Index and Depression, Anxiety, Body Image, and Eating Attitudes in Adolescents in Iran
Authors: Rostampour Noushin , Naderi Masoumeh , Kheiri Soleiman , Safavi Parvin
Published: October 2023

Background:

The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between body mass index (BMI) and depression, anxiety, body image, and eating attitudes in 12- to 16-year-old adolescents.

Materials and Methods:

In this descriptive-analytical study on 437 students in Shahrekord, Iran, selected by two-step random sampling (selection of schools and students), participants were divided into normal weight (BMI: 5–85th), overweight (BMI: 85–95th), and obese (BMI >95th) groups and completed the questionnaires and data were analyzed by SPSS version 23.

Results:

BMI had a positive correlation with anxiety, depression, and dysfunctional eating attitudes, and negative correlation with body image in adolescents. Mean scores of depression and anxiety in both overweight and obese groups were significantly higher than those in normal weight adolescents but scores of body image and eating attitudes were not different between overweight and normal weight groups.

Conclusion:

Obesity and overweight may have adverse effects on mental health of adolescents and more attention to psychological aspect of obesity can help us to provide better health services to overweight and obese adolescents.
Vitamin E Prevented Hepatic and Renal Tissue Damage in Hypothyroid Rats
Authors: Hedayati-Moghadam Mahdiyeh , Baghcheghi Yousef , Beheshti Farimah , Shabgah Arezoo G. , Salmani Hossein , Hosseini Mahmoud
Published: October 2023

Background:

Considering antioxidant effects of vitamin E (Vit E), in the present study, the effect of Vit E on liver and kidney functions and oxidative stress parameters in tissues of these organs of hypothyroid (Hypo) rats were reported.

Materials and Methods:

The animals were included in three groups:(1) control, (2) hypo, and (3) hypo-hypo-Vit E. Hypothyroidism was induced in rats by giving 0.05% propylthiouracil (PTU) in drinking water. Besides PTU, the rats in group 3 were daily injected with Vit E (20 mg/kg) for 42 days. The animals were deeply anesthetized and sacrificed, and the serum of the rats was immediately removed to measure thyroxin level and subsequent analysis. The liver and kidney tissues were also immediately removed for biochemical oxidative stress criteria.

Results:

PTU administration reduced serum thyroxin level and also thiol content, superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT) activities in the liver and kidney tissues while increasing malondialdehyde (MDA). Hypothyroidism also increased alanine aminotransferase (ALT), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), and creatinine while decreasing albumin. Vit E increased thiol, SOD, and CAT in the liver and kidney tissues while diminished MDA. Vit E also decreased ALT, BUN, and creatinine while increased albumin.

Conclusion:

The results of this study showed that Vit E prevented liver and renal tissue damage in hypothyroid rats.
Time- and Concentration-Dependent Effects of the Stem Cells Derived from Human Exfoliated Deciduous Teeth on Osteosarcoma Cells
Authors: Alipour Razieh , Hashemibeni Batool , Asgari Vajihe , Bahramian Hamid
Published: October 2023

Background:

Stem cells have been proposed to be one of the potent sources for treatment applications. Among diverse types of stem cells, stem cells derived from human exfoliated deciduous teeth (SHEDs) are known as the immature stem cell population, which are easily isolated, fast, and without ethical implications. SHEDs could induce pluripotent stem cells and show differentiation in chondrocytes, adipocytes, osteoblasts, neural cells, hepatocytes, myocytes, odontoblasts, and skin cells.

Materials and Methods:

In the current study, we investigated the effects of SHED on osteosarcoma cells (Saos-II) following 3 and 5 days indirect coculture.

Results:

Our results showed that indirect coculture of SHED with Saos-II cells could promote or inhibit Saos-II cells' growth in a concentration (the number of SHED vs. Saos-II cells) and time (days of indirect co-culture) dependent manner.

Conclusion:

Our findings suggested that, indirectly, SHED co-culture with the Soas-II cells might functions as a tumor suppressor where a higher number of SHEDs are used in the culture in comparison with the one cultured in the absence of/or fewer SHED incubation.
Anti-Leishmaniasis Effect of Staphylococcus Aureus Protein A on the Size of the Lesion and Parasitic Load
Authors: Tavalaei Zahra , Zeinalian Mehrdad , Khanahmad Hossein , Hejazi Hossein
Published: October 2023

Background:

Many studies in the past have evaluated the role of immune system boosters in the treatment of leishmania major infection. Protein A (PA) is one of the structural components in peptidoglycan cell wall of gram-negative bacteria such as staphylococcus aurous which functions as a stimulator in the cellular immune system. The present study aims to evaluate the anti-inflammatory effect of PA on the recovery of leishmania major infection.

Materials and Methods:

This study was conducted on 24 female Balb/c-infected mice. The experimental group received PA at a dose of 60 mg/kg for four weeks. There was no intervention for the negative control group; the third group received the solvent of PA and sterile H2O; and the positive control group received Amphotericin B at a dose of 1 mg/kg body weight. At the end of the treatment period, a real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay was performed to determine parasitic burden, and the size of the lesions was measured by caliper with an accuracy of 0.01 mm.

Results:

Results showed that PA did slightly decrease the wound spread and growth but not to an extent that can be considered statistically significant. Also, differences in cycle threshold (Ct) values between the treated group and the untreated group was not impressive.

Conclusions:

Although findings showed that PA isn't such a good candidate for leishmania treatment, it may still be suitable for therapies that use multiple drugs in combination to speed up the healing of leishmaniosis, an issue that merits evaluation in future studies.
In vitro Characterization of Polyethyleneimine–Oleic Acid Cationic Micelle as a Novel Protein Carrier
Authors: Sabzehei Faezeh , Taromchi Amir Hossein , Danafar Hossein , Rashidzadeh Hamid , Ramazani Ali
Published: October 2023

Background:

Nanotechnology has introduced valuable carriers for vaccine delivery. The success of vaccination depends on many factors, such as the intact and safe presentation of vaccine candidates to immune cells. We have conjugated branched PEI-2k and oleic acid (OL) as the building block of the cationic micelle. We aimed to introduce a novel carrier for vaccine candidates.

Materials and Methods:

We conjugated polyethyleneimine and OL (POA) to synthesize the building blocks of cationic micelles. The critical micelle concentration (CMC), size and zeta potential of micelles, and their stability in 60 days were determined. Loading, encapsulation efficiency, and in vitro release study were assessed using bovine serum albumin (BSA) as a protein model. Furthermore, the cytotoxicity and hemocompatibility of developed nanosized micelles were evaluated to ascertain the biocompatibility of fabricated micelles. Cell uptake of cationic micelles in the macrophage cell line was also followed up.

Results:

The conjugation of two polymer parts was confirmed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and 1H nuclear magnetic resonance techniques. The CMC of the developed micelles was around 5.62 × 10 − 8 mg/ml, whereas the loading and encapsulation efficiencies were 16.5% and 70%, respectively. The size and zeta potential of the cationic micelles were 96.53 ± 18.53 nm and 68.3 mV, respectively. The release of BSA from POA micelles after 8 and 72 hours was 8.5% and 82%, respectively. Finally, fluorescence microscopy showed that the prepared micelles were successfully and effectively taken up by RAW264.7 cells.

Conclusion:

These results may provide a cutting-edge vaccine delivery solution and open up a new avenue for future vaccine research.
Comparative Study of the Effect of Vaginal Use of Primrose Oil with Misoprostol on Cervical Preparation of Prim Gravid Women: A Double-Blind Clinical Trial
Authors: Danesh Shahraki Azar , Mirhoseini Sara , Movahedi Minoo , Hajihashemy Maryam , Haghollahi Fedyeh
Published: October 2023

Background:

This study compares the effect of vaginal administration of evening primrose oil with misoprostol on cervical preparation in prim gravid women at ≥40 weeks gestation.

Materials and Methods:

This was a double-blind randomized clinical trial conducted in Isfahan, Iran during 2019-2020 on 110 prim gravid pregnant women with a gestational age of 40 weeks and more and cephalic presentation of the fetus with the obstetrical indication for pregnancy termination. After obstetric examinations to rule out cephalo pelvic disproportion and calculation of the Bishop score by the researcher, patients were randomized to receive 25 μg misoprostol tablets (n = 55) or 1000 mg evening primrose oil Pearls (n = 55) administrated vaginally by a midwife. We compared Bishop's score before and after the intervention, time of cervical ripening, a dose of intervention for cervical ripening, need to induce labor, the interval between cervical preparation and induction of labor, duration of oxytocin use, need for cesarean section, and its cause, Apgar score at 5 and 10 minutes, neonatal birth weight.

Results:

Mean baseline Bishop Score was not significant between the groups (P = 0.45); after the intervention, it was significantly higher in the primrose oil group (P < .001). Significantly fewer patients required cesarean sections in the primrose oil group (P = 0.03). The other outcomes were. not significant between the groups (P > 0.05).

Conclusion:

Misoprostol and primrose oil administration appear to positively affect cervical readiness. Primrose oil resulted in significantly better Bishop Scores and fewer cesarean sections compared to misoprostol in pregnancy 40 weeks and more.
Comparing the effectiveness of cognitive behavioral group therapy and mindfulness and acceptance group therapy for adults who stutter: A randomized clinical trial
Authors: Khoshnam Soroush , Gharraee Banafsheh , Ashouri Ahmad
Published: October 2023

Background:

Considering the importance of psychological interventions for adults who stutter (AWS), the present study compared the effectiveness of Cognitive Behavioral Group Therapy (CBGT) and Mindfulness and Acceptance Group Therapy (MAGT), in combination with Speech Therapy (ST) in AWS.

Materials and Methods:

A randomized clinical trial was conducted with 36 AWS in Tehran and Alborz provinces in Iran from September-2019 to September-2020. Participants were assigned to CBGT + ST and MAGT + ST groups. Outcomes variables, the fear of negative evaluation scale (FNE) and the social avoidance and distress scale (SAD), were measured at four stages: (1) pretest, (2) after MAGT/CBGT, (3) after ST, and (4) at 6-month follow-up.

Results:

The results of repetitive measure-analysis on variance showed that CBGT + ST and MAGT + ST were significantly effective (P = 0.001 and P = 0.003) on SAD. The same analysis showed that CBGT + ST was significantly effective (P = 0.001) on FNE. The results of Analysis of Covariance showed that there was no significant difference between CBGT + ST and MAGT + ST on SAD but CBGT + ST was more effective than MAGT + ST at stage 3 (P < 0.05) on FNE.

Conclusion:

Data indicated that CBGT + ST and MAGT + ST were both effective for SAD of AWS. Regarding FNE, unlike MAGT + ST, CBGT was effective either alone or in combination with ST for AWS. Further studies are needed to confirm the results of this study.
Evaluating Daily Cell-Phone Use in Elderly and Its Effect on Lifestyle, Isfahan Comprehensive Health Care Centers
Authors: Amini Pozveh Zahra , Shariat Ashkan , Tavakoli Moghadam Neda
Published: October 2023

Background:

The seniors' lifestyle is an important public-health issue. Hence, assessing the association of cell phone use as a rapidly spreading technology on older adults' lifestyle can be useful for planning prevention and health-promotion policies.

Materials and Methods:

This cross-sectional study was conducted from March 2020 to March 2021 in Isfahan Comprehensive Health Care Centers to investigate the impact of cell phone use on the lifestyle of the elderly. The Cell-Phone Over-Use Scale and the lifestyle checklist were the assessment tools employed for this purpose.

Results:

Of the 300 participants with a mean age of 67.93 ± 5.14 years, 46% were male and 54% female. The average value of cell phone usage score was 47.88 ± 26.56, which was categorized into low 36%, moderate 41%, and overuse 23%. A positive and significant correlation was reported between the level of cell phone use in males (β =10.711, [0.95 confidence interval {CI} =4.262–17.160]) and people who have used a substance or opium in the past year (β =10.819, [0.95 CI = 3.677–17.961]). The present results found no significant association between cell phone use patterns and age, level of education, body mass index, television time, sports time, smoking in the past year, marital relationship, and living alone.

Conclusion:

In this study, we demonstrated a correlation between cell phone use and some demographic and lifestyle variables, namely sex and drug abuse.
The Therapeutic Effects of Magnesium in Insulin Secretion and Insulin Resistance
Authors: Hosseini Dastgerdi Azadehalsadat , Ghanbari Rad Mahtab , Soltani Nepton
Published: October 2023

Insulin resistance (IR) is a chronic pathological condition that is related to reduce the rates of glucose uptake, especially in the liver, muscle, and adipose tissue as target tissues. Metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes mellitus can occur following progression of the disease. The majority of prior research has applied that some cations such as magnesium (Mg2+) have important physiological role in insulin metabolism. Mg2+ is the fourth most abundant mineral in the human body that gets involved as a cofactor of various enzymes in several metabolic events, such as carbohydrate oxidation, and it has a fundamental role in glucose transporting mechanism of the cell membrane. This cation has numerous duties in the human body such as regulation of insulin secretion in pancreatic beta-cells and phosphorylation of the insulin receptors in target cells and also gets involved in other downstream signal kinases as intracellular cation. On this basis, intracellular Mg2+ balancing is vital for adequate carbohydrate metabolism. This paper summarizes the present knowledge about the therapeutic effects of Mg2+ in reducing IR in liver, muscle, and pancreases with different mechanisms. For this, the search was performed in Google Scholar, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science by insulin resistance, skeletal muscle, liver, pancreases, magnesium, Mg2+, and inflammation keywords.
A Review of Studies on Candida Species in Peninsular Malaysia
Authors: Farooq Humaira , Monowar Tahmina , Latt Swe Swe , Chinni Suresh V. , Zainol Noor Hasliza , Sabesan Gokul Shankar
Published: October 2023

Data on the epidemiology and the antifungal susceptibility of Candida species infections in Malaysia is still limited. The study aimed to review and compare studies reporting the prevalence of Candida species and antifungal susceptibility of Candida infections in Peninsular Malaysia. Data from 22 studies published between 2009 and 2018. Data was collected using National Center for Biotechnology Information and Google Scholar using the keywords “Candida and Malaysia.” Around 19 Candida species were identified in a total of 35,608 Candida isolates analyzed in these studies. In most studies examined, C. albicans (66.3%) was the predominant species, followed by C. glabrata (11.7%), C. parapsilosis (10.7%), C. tropicalis (9.5%), and C. krusei (1.19%). Vaginal swabs yielded the most isolates, followed by the respiratory system, urine, blood, oral, pus, and other locations. The demographic, racial, and gender data were recorded only in two studies. Totally, eight studies examined 396 isolates for antifungal susceptibility to common antifungal medications. The average antifungal susceptibility of isolates and efficacy of drugs in these studies ranged between 45 and 99% for most common antifungal drugs. Caspofungin had the highest susceptibility at 99%, whereas itraconazole had the lowest at only 45%. Overall, this review provided a comprehensive summary of all the current research on predominant Candida species in Peninsular Malaysia.
Early Vitrectomy: An Effective Treatment for Acute Postcataract Surgery Endophthalmitis
Authors: Fazel Najafabadi Farhad , Salehi Ali , Vaezi Mohammad Hadi , Ghanbari Heshmatollah , Fazel Najafabadi Mohamadreza , Koosha Nima , Jafarzadeh Zahra
Published: October 2023

Background:

Endophthalmitis is a rare but a high morbid complication after cataract surgery, and a gold standard treatment is not recommended yet. In this study, we aim to evaluate the effect of early vitrectomy on the visual acuity of patients with postcataract endophthalmitis.

Materials and Methods:

This study was a single-arm clinical trial on 27 patients with postcataract surgery endophthalmitis. Early vitrectomy was the intervention. Visual acuity as the primary outcome was evaluated and compared at baseline, at discharge, and 1 and 3 months after the intervention.

Results:

From 27 patients who included in our study, six patients gain favorable visual acuity of 5/10 and above (success rate = 22%), and four of them have no improvement in their visual acuity. Retinal detachment was reported as a complication in just one case. Negative culture was a predictor for success in terms of visual acuity after the surgery. All patients who gain favorable results, presented in the first 15 days after the cataract surgery.

Conclusion:

The result of our study showed that, considering complete, early vitrectomy for the treatment of postcataract surgery endophthalmitis, especially for those who presented in the first 15 days of cataract surgery and for those who have negative culture is promising.
The Efficacy of Ropivacaine 0.5% in Transversus Abdominis Plane Block to Relieve the Postoperative Pain of Female Laparoscopic Surgery Grade II
Authors: Rouholamin Safoura , Ghahiri Ataollah , Dehghan Khalili Banafsheh
Published: October 2023

Background:

The aim of this study was determination of the effect of the transversus abdominis plane block (TAP block) with ropivacaine 0.5% in relieving postoperative pain after laparoscopic gynecologic surgery.

Materials and Methods:

The population of the double-blinded clinical trial study included 200 women candidates for elective laparoscopic gynecologic surgery who referred to Al-Zahra and Beheshti hospitals in Isfahan during 2016–2018. In the TAP block group in addition to standard general anesthesia, an anesthetic drug Ropivacaine (Naropin, 0.5%) was injected at a dose of 0.5 mg/kg between transverse abdominal muscle and internal oblique muscle facia. And in control group just received standard general anesthesia. Hence, the severity of pain and nausea and vomiting is recorded at the time of recovery, at 30 min, 2, 4, 6, 12, and 48 h after the surgery.

Results:

The results of this study showed that in all periods of time (30 min, 2, 4, 6, 12, 24, 36, and 48 h after the surgery), mean pain score in TAP block group was lower than control group (P < 0.001). Hence that, in the 48 h after the surgery, the pain score in the TAP block group with a mean of 0.46 ± 0.50 was significantly lower than the control group with a mean of 1.06 ± 0.68 (P < 0.001). Nausea and vomiting between the two groups were no significant differences. There was no decrease in narcotic use or length of stay among those who received the TAP block.

Conclusions:

TAP block with ropivacaine 0.5% had a significant role in reducing postoperative pain of laparoscopic surgery.
The Effect of COVID-19 Pandemic on the Characteristics of Pediatric Supracondylar Fracture
Authors: Sabaghzadeh Amir , Bonakdar Sona , Ebrahimpour Adel , Khoshkholghsima Maryam , Gorji Mona , Soufiabadi Kamand , Gholipour Morteza
Published: October 2023

Background:

Environmental factors play a key role in the occurrence of pediatric supracondylar humerus (SH) fracture which has been widely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and the measures taken to curb its spread. In this study, we aim to investigate the ultimate impact coronavirus pandemic has had on SH fractures in children.

Materials and Methods:

This retrospective cohort study compares SH fractures which occurred during the pandemic with their prepandemic counterpart in a pediatric trauma public hospital. Patient's data, submitted from February to July 2020 and 2019, were collected and divided into two groups based on fractures’ time of occurrence, i.e., during or before the pandemic.

Results:

There was no significant difference in terms of gender, type of fracture, injury location, and time of admission during a day between the aforementioned groups. However, in the pandemic group, patients were transferred to the operating room significantly quicker (odds ratio; 2.13 vs. 0.607, P = 0.01) and the surgery duration was shorter (40.17 ± 12.28 min vs. 49.11 ± 15.48 min, P = 0.011). It was found that the location of injury (home, school, etc.) varied between the two groups (P = 0.01) and the proportion of domestic injuries during the pandemic grew significantly (53.6% vs. 19.8%).

Conclusion:

Although the incidence of pediatric SH fractures has decreased due to the closure of schools and sports clubs during the pandemic, domestic occurrence of the same fracture type has grown disproportionately. To prevent this trend, pediatric centers should educate parents on child safety measures and fracture risks during the lockdown.