bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Molecular Investigation of Seven Respiratory Viruses in Patients with Acute Respiratory Tract Infections
Authors: Salavatiha Zahra , Kiani Seyed Jalal , Tavakoli Ahmad , Karbalaie Niya Mohammad Hadi , Javan Alireza , Safaie Zahra , Rezvani Mohammad Reza , Bokharaei-Salim Farah , Monavari Seyed Hamidreza
Published: September 2024

Introduction: Respiratory tract infection (RTI) is among the important factors that can threaten human health and is one of the most prevalent etiological agents of death, especially in young children. Viruses account for approximately 80% of various RTIs worldwide. Our study aimed to investigate the molecular prevalence of seven respiratory viruses in RTI. Our results can help develop appropriate public health strategies and treatment management of RTIs.
Materials and Methods: 120 respiratory samples were obtained from patients with flu-like manifestations from hospitals referred to the Iran University of Medical Sciences during 2020-2022. Nucleic acid extraction was performed, and then real-time polymerase chain reaction  was performed to analyze the specimens to investigate seven respiratory viruses.
Results: Of the 120 respiratory specimens collected from patients with RTI, viruses were identified in 41 (34.16%) samples, encompassing 24 (40.7%) females and 17 (27.9%) males. SARS-CoV-2 (n = 22, 18.3%) and Parainfluenza virus (n=18, 15%) were the predominant detected viruses in the present study, followed by respiratory syncytial viruses (n=1, 0.8%). Other viruses like Metapneumovirus, Adenovirus, Bocavirus, and Rhinovirus were not found in our study. We could not detect any co-infection in our analysis.
Conclusion: SARS-CoV-2 and Parainfluenza-virus were the predominant viruses detected in our study, followed by respiratory syncytial viruses. Other viruses, such as Metapneumovirus, Adenovirus, Bocavirus, and Rhinovirus, have not been found in our study. We could not detect any co-infection in our consideration. This result can help develop appropriate public health strategies, targeting prevention and avoiding inappropriate treatment such as using unnecessary antibiotics.
Frequency of Blood Components Wastages and Related Factors in Fars Blood Transfusion Centers, Iran
Authors: Azadbakht Mojtaba , Bagheri Parisa , Akbarzadeh Majid , Foruozandeh Hossein , Khaleghi Aliasghar , Gholami Mohammad Saeed , Zarei Davood , Nasiri Zahra , Asadi Amir Abbas
Published: September 2024

Introduction: Blood component waste is an important issue in all blood transfusion centers. Therefore, reducing and managing these wastages are a major concern in blood transfusion centers. The present study examined the causes and frequency of blood product wastage in blood transfusion centers of Fars Province from 2015 to 2020.
Materials and Methods: This is a descriptive and retrospective study, and the cause and frequency of red blood cell, platelet, plasma and cryoprecipitate wastage from 2015 to 2020 were evaluated. The data related to the blood product wastage were extracted from the comprehensive software of the Blood Transfusion Organization (Negareh). Then, it was analyzed using SPSS software version 25.
Results: The total amount of waste was equal to 164981 units. The highest percentage of wastage of products was in 2015 (8.12%), 2016 (7.15 %) and 2017 (6.75 %), respectively. The most discarded products were whole blood, cryoprecipitate and platelet, respectively. Also, the leading causes of waste included positive screening test results, expiration date, contamination, blood group incompatibility, and abnormal and bloody color, respectively.
Conclusion: The authors concluded that blood component wastage has a dropping pattern in this period. Proper management and continuous training of technical staff are important in reducing blood product wastage.
Comparison of Brain Activity between Patients with Parkinson Disease Dementia and Patients Affected by Dementia with Lewy Body through EEG Analysis
Authors: Abbood Sharara Fadhil , Abdul-Rasul Israa Jawad , Al-Zughaibi Amaal Sahib , Kzar Al-Shukri Hamzah H. , Rabee Fadak B. , Fadhil Zainab A. , Radhi Zainab A.A.
Published: September 2024

Objective: Parkinson's disease dementia (PDD) and Dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) are two syndromes categorized under synucleinopathy, sharing comparable symptoms. The identification of biomarkers would offer an accurate approach for improved diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of treatment efficacy for these distinct forms of dementia.
Method: This study utilized spectral analysis and nonlinear dynamic analysis to compare electroencephalogram (EEG) characteristics between PDD and DLB patients. EEG data was collected from 30 PDD patients, 36 DLB patients, and 36 healthy subjects at rest. Following a conditioning phase to minimize noise and eliminate artifacts, we derived spectral and complexity features using Welch's method and sample entropy. Analysis of variance with repeated measures was performed to compare spectral features and nonlinear dynamics of brain activity between the groups.
Results: Post hoc comparison showed that in the control group, the power of delta and theta bands was lower and the power of alpha and beta bands was higher than in patients with PDD and DLB. (P < 0.05). In the theta and alpha bands, the PDD group showed greater power than the DLB group (P < 0.05). Furthermore, there was a significant main effect of diagnosis (F = 4.67, P = 0.007), and also the diagnosis by region interaction for complexity values (F = 4.58, P = 0.009). Post hoc analysis showed that the EEG complexity of the control group was significantly higher than that of the PDD and DLB groups in the frontal, central, temporal and parietal regions (P < 0.05). Moreover, the EEG complexity of the PDD group was significantly higher than that of the DLB group in the central, temporal and parietal regions (P < 0.05).
Conclusion: Although both PDD and DLB had almost similar patterns compared to the control group, they showed differences in the EEG power spectrum and its nonlinear dynamics. Our findings indicated marked diffuse slowing and lower cortical complexity or activity in DLB patients compared to PDD in all regions, especially in the central, temporal and parietal areas.
Exploring Brain Activity in Different Mental Cognitive Workloads
Authors: Balani Sahar Oftadeh , Al-Hussainy Ali Fawzi , Al-Hassan Shalal Alhan Abd , Ubaid Mohammed , Aluquaily Zinab , Alamoori Jaafar , Motevalli Saeid
Published: September 2024

Objective: Understanding neural mechanisms underlying cognitive workload is crucial for advancing our knowledge of human cognition and mental processes. In this study, we utilized electroencephalography (EEG) analysis to investigate brain activity associated with varying mental cognitive workloads from a psychological perspective.
Method: We employed a publicly accessible EEG dataset consisting of a cohort of 36 healthy volunteers (75% female), aged 18 to 26 years, while the participants were at rest or engaged in an arithmetic task to explore mental cognitive workload. After preprocessing to reduce noise and various artifacts and to obtain a clean signal for every subject, functional connectivity and complexity features were calculated from EEGs through the coherence and permutation entropy algorithms, respectively. Then, repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) was conducted to assess the differences in complexity and connectivity measures across various brain regions between the rest and task states.
Results: Brain sites showed significant within-subject effects, and the interaction between states and channels was significant for connectivity values (F = 3.68, P = 0.034). Post hoc comparisons indicated that FP1-F7, FP1-F8 and FP1-Fz connectivity were significantly lower during the task state compared to the rest state (P < 0.05). Moreover, F4-P3, F4-P4, FP1-O1, FP2-O2, F3-O1, F4-O1, F8-O1, C4-O1, F3-O2, F4-O2, F7-O2, F8-O2, Fz-O1, Fz-O2, Cz-O1 and Fz-P4 connectivity were significantly higher during the arithmetic task state (P < 0.05). Furthermore, brain sites showed significant within-subject effects and the interaction between states and channels was significant for entropy values (F = 3.50, P = 0.041). Post hoc comparisons indicated that the permutation entropy was significantly higher in the FP1, T3, T4, P4 and Pz channels during the arithmetic task compared to the rest state (P < 0.05).
Conclusion: During arithmetic tasks, the increased connectivity in the frontoparietal and frontooccipital networks and heightened complexity in the prefrontal, temporal and parietal lobes reflect the collaborative engagement of brain areas specialized in numerical processing, attention, working memory, cognitive control, and visual-spatial cognition. These changes in connectivity and complexity facilitate the integration of multiple cognitive processes essential for effective arithmetic problem-solving.
Identifying Key Genes and Approved Medications Associated with Major Depressive Disorder Using Network Analysis and Systems Biology
Authors: Parvizi Yasin , Sadati Seyed Mahdi , Porbaha Pedram , Masumi Shima , Mahdian Saeid , Vafaei Seyed Alireza , Afshar Saeid
Published: September 2024

Objective: Major depressive disorder (MDD) stands as one of the serious psychiatric conditions that detrimentally affect patients' quality of life and leads to a significant part of disability worldwide. Due to the limited understanding of the basic molecular mechanisms of depression and antidepressant medications, a clear understanding of the onset and development of MDD is unavailable. This study aims to figure out the pivotal genes and pathways implicated in the MDD development and identify medications that can potentially improve MDD treatment based on their relation with the key genes.
Method: Symbols of human coding genes were retrieved from the HUGO Gene Nomenclature Committee database. These symbols were then queried for MDD-related associations using a Python script in PubMed. Subsequently, genes with two or more related articles to MDD were selected. A union of our search data and MDD-related genes in the DisGeNET database was found. The gene interaction network was generated and analyzed utilizing the STRING and Cytoscape, respectively. Finally, a drug-gene network was constructed and medications that can affect multiple genes were selected.
Results: The union of our search data and DisGeNET data contained 1734 genes. Based on network analysis, TNF, IL1B, IL6, STAT1, and STAT3 were identified as the key genes in the MDD pathogenesis. Eleven drugs that affect more than one gene were detected through a drug-gene network. These medications include Acitretin, Adalimumab, Alteplase, Cisplatin, Digoxin, Etanercept, Infliximab, Insulin, Omeprazole, Pentoxifylline, and Rabeprazole.
Conclusion: In summary, our findings identified five genes as key genes in MDD development, as well as medications related to key genes. This study provides a new vision of the pathogenesis and treatment of MDD. However, further experimental and clinical studies are necessary.
Checking the Validity and Reliability of the Delirium-O-Meter Questionnaire in the Persian Language
Authors: Ghaffarifar Saeideh , Sadeh Reza Naghdi , Ghaemmaghami Mehrdad , Parchehbaf Mohseni Mohammad Hossein
Published: September 2024

Objective: Compiling and designing short and practical psychometric tools are among the benefits and strengths of a good standard test. The Delirium-O-Meter questionnaire measures patients' delirium status. Accordingly, the main aim of this research was to check the reliability and validity of the Persian version of this questionnaire.
Method: This exploratory psychometric study was conducted from 2021 to 2022 at the therapeutic research training centers of Tabriz University of Medical Sciences. The study population included patients diagnosed with delirium. Content and construct validity were assessed using exploratory factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis. Exploratory factor analysis was performed using SPSS 18, which helped identify the underlying factor structure, while confirmatory factor analysis in Smart PLS was employed to confirm the structure's fit. Pearson correlation was used to evaluate the consistency between different raters, and Cronbach's alpha was calculated to assess internal consistency. These methods were selected for their robustness in evaluating the instrument's psychometric properties, ensuring the reliability and validity of the Persian version of the Delirium-O-Meter questionnaire.
Results: The Persian version of the Delirium-O-Meter questionnaire, consisting of 11 items, demonstrated strong psychometric properties. The average impact factor was 3.24, indicating a high relevance of the items. The content validity ratio was 0.78, and the content validity index was 0.87, both above the acceptable thresholds, confirming the content validity of the questionnaire. Cronbach's alpha coefficient for the entire questionnaire was 0.77, reflecting good internal consistency. The Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin index was 0.88, and Bartlett's sphericity test was significant (χ² = 278.45, P < 0.001), indicating the appropriateness of the data for factor analysis. Exploratory factor analysis revealed two factors that explained 76.09% of the total variance, supporting the questionnaire's construct validity. Additionally, Pearson’s correlation coefficient between the assessments of two nurses was 0.91, signifying inter-rater solid reliability.
Conclusion: The Persian version of the Delirium-O-Meter questionnaire demonstrates acceptable reliability and validity, as confirmed by the comprehensive psychometric evaluation conducted in this study. The strong internal consistency, significant content and construct validity, and high inter-rater reliability underscore its effectiveness in assessing delirium in Persian-speaking patients. These findings highlight the questionnaire's suitability for clinical use, providing a reliable and valid instrument for accurately diagnosing and managing delirium in diverse healthcare settings.
Estimating the Heritability of Hoarding Symptoms: Insights from a Classical Twin Study “New Insights on the Nature of Clutter”
Authors: Pourkhalili Sepehr , Soltani Shal Reza , Abolghasemi Abbas , Dianatkhah Minoo , Gharipour Mojgan
Published: September 2024

Objective: Hoarding disorder is a complex condition that significantly impacts individuals' lives, characterized by excessive acquiring, difficulty discarding, clutter, distress, and impairment. This study aimed to examine the extent to which genetics and environment influence difficulty discarding, excessive acquisition, and clutter through the implementation of a classical twin study.
Method: This classical twin study, conducted between April and September 2021, enrolled 194 twins (97 pairs) from Isfahan, recruited through the Isfahan Twins Registry (ITR). A total of 194 twins, consisting of 100 monozygotic (MZ) and 94 dizygotic (DZ) twins, participated in this study. Participants aged 16–50 were invited electronically and completed an online consent form and questionnaire. Hoarding symptoms were assessed using the saving inventory-revised. Zygosity was determined using a self-report method based on Song et al.'s questionnaire. To estimate the heritability of hoarding symptoms, the classical univariate twin model was employed.
Results: Based on the univariate analysis, the heritability estimates for difficulty discarding and excessive acquisition were found to be 0.43 and 0.52, respectively. However, the results did not provide support for the role of genetics in clutter. Instead, it was indicated that the common environment accounted for 0.54 of the variance in clutter, while the specific environment contributed 0.46 to this symptom.
Conclusion: The difficulty discarding and excessive acquisition were found to be moderately heritable. On the other hand, considering the contribution of genetics and environment to clutter, the results raise doubts about the association of clutter with hoarding. The relatively low genetic influence suggests that this trait may overlap with other behaviors rather than hoarding.
The Impact of Chronic Exercise on Cognitive Function: An Overview of Reviews
Authors: Abdalkareem Jasim Saade , Singh Mandeep , Baqir Al-Dhalimy Aiman Mohammed , Zwamel Ahmed Hussein , Jawad Israa Abed , Shalaby Nagat Salah
Published: September 2024

Objective: Understanding the associations between cognitive function and chronic exercise has gained significant attention in the last decade. This overview aims to consolidate current knowledge and shed light on potential benefits of long-term exercise on cognitive abilities.
Method: Relevant databases, including Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science, were searched through predefined keywords related to chronic exercise and cognitive function. We included all relevant systematic-reviews and meta-analysis in our data-synthesizing.
Results: We identified 74 references across PubMed (33), Scopus (35), and Web of Sciences (6). After deduplication, 52 unique references remained. Screening by title and abstract yielded 28 relevant studies. Full-text review based on inclusion criteria resulted in nine eligible articles. Most were meta-analyses, examining 10 to 71 randomized controlled trials on executive functions across various age groups and health statuses. Both acute and chronic exercises demonstrated small to moderate positive effects on cognitive functions, with chronic exercise outcomes influenced by type, duration, frequency, session length, age, and cognitive status.
Conclusion: Extensive research underscores a robust and compelling link between involving in regular, long-term physical exercise and enhancement of cognitive functioning. This connection emphasizes the critical role that consistent physical activity plays in safeguarding mental well-being and maintaining sharp cognitive abilities throughout various life stages. Positive effect of sustained physical exercise on cognitive functioning serves as a compelling reason to integrate exercise as a fundamental component of a holistic approach to mental wellness and cognitive longevity.
Modeling of PM10 Particulate Matter in Ahvaz City Using Remote Sensing and Meteorological Parameters
Authors: Khafaie Morteza Abdullatif , Saeidi Mona , Mohammadi Shahin , Marioryad Hossein , Jamshidi Arsalan
Published: September 2024

Introduction: In recent years, remote sensing (RS) products have emerged as effective tools for monitoring air pollution. This study aims to predict the concentrations of particulate matter with a diameter smaller than 10μm (PM10) using a multivariate linear regression (MLR) model, incorporating both Aerosol Optical Depth (AOD) products and meteorological parameters.
Material and Methods: In this study, data on PM10 concentrations, Aerosol Optical Depth (AOD), and meteorological parameters (wind speed, temperature, humidity, and horizontal visibility) were used. The study focused on the time 15:00 each day, as this time was identified as having significant data relevance. The methodology section also consisted of three steps: 1) pairwise correlation analysis: The relationship between meteorological parameters, AOD, and PM10 was assessed using the pairwise correlation method. 2) Model development: A MLR model was developed to predict PM10 concentrations. 3) Validation: The model was validated using a separate dataset, ensuring that 70% of the data was used for training, and 30% for testing and validation.
Results: The pairwise correlation analysis revealed a strong correlation (0.86) between AOD remote sensing index and PM10. The highest correlation (0.9) was observed during the spring season. The five developed equations to estimate the PM10 index yielded correlation coefficients ranging from 0.86 to 0.90. Notably, the highest correlation was achieved when AOD data and all the meteorological parameters were u tilized simultaneously. These results highlighted the utility of remote sensing products and meteorological data in air quality monitoring and prediction.
Conclusion: This study demonstrates that a MLR model incorporating AOD and meteorological parameters can effectively predict PM10 concentrations in Ahvaz City, particularly during dust storms in hot seasons. These findings can aid policymakers and public health officials in developing strategies to mitigate the adverse effects of dust storms on air quality and public health.
Knowledge, Attitude and Performance (KAP) of People regarding Microplastics as a New Health Problem in Kerman, Iran
Authors: Alizadeh Ismaeil , Sabok Khiz Zahra , Faraji Maryam
Published: September 2024

Introduction: This study aims to evaluate knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) of people towards Microplastics (MPs).
Materials and Methods: Data were collected from 500 residences in Kerman city, southeast Iran, in 2023 through a questionnaire that was designed and validated by the authors.
Results: More respondents were female (65%), 18–30 years old (43%), undergraduate (48%), and students (35%), and 63% of respondents sorted garbage. Respondents had good knowledge towards general information, but not towards expert information. The highest percentage of respondents with correct answers to the knowledge questions (80%) had the knowledge about environmental pollution to MPs, causing diseases in humans. The maximum percentage of respondents agreed to the attitude questions (57%) agreed with the point that food sellers should recommend cloth bags to shoppers instead of plastic bag, and 60% of them would like to know more about MPs. In terms of practice, 41% of the respondents stated that they usually leave plastic waste in the environment.
Conclusion: The current study showed that there is limited information about MPs in books and among the public. Education and offering free reusable bags were considered as the effective policies to reduce MPs pollution. Also, less environmental awareness and poor management were considered as challenges to reduce emission of MPs.
Application of Thymus Species as Natural Coagulant for Elimination of Turbidity of Water and Its Comparison with the Conventional Coagulant
Authors: Kamani Hossein , MohammadiMohammadi Leili , Azari Ali , Ashraﬁ Seyed Davoud , Heydari Farah , Ganji Fatemeh , Mousavi Seyed Mohammad
Published: September 2024

Introduction: The most important pollutant in surface water sources is turbidity. The aim of the study is to determine the most effective thyme plant extract as a natural coagulant to remove water turbidity and compare it with alum as a chemical coagulant..
Materials and Methods: In this study, plant extracts obtained from Thymus vulgaris (Tv), Thymus kotschyanus (Tk), and Thymus eriocalyx (Te) were used as natural coagulants for elimination of water turbidity. Then, the best of plant extract was confirmed by ninhydrin and FTIR analyses and the effect of simultaneous use of plant extract with chemical coagulant of aluminum sulfate (alum) was investigated in the hybrid ratio of 1:1, 2:1, and 1:2. Then, the effect of parameters include of pH, coagulant dose, turbidity removal efficiency, and the most suitable solvent for coagulant extraction were studied.
Results: The results of this study showed that among the natural coagulants, Tv had a higher efficiency in elimination of water turbidity, and the highest amounts of turbidity elimination for Tv, alum, and Tv/alum hybrid coagulants was 94, 90, and 96, respectively. According to the results of this study, the most effective solvent for preparing plant extracts was 1M KCl solvent.
Conclusion: The natural coagulant removes more turbidity from water than the chemical coagulant, and the simultaneous use of natural and chemical coagulants with a 1:1 ratio was more effective.
Investigating the Impact of Environmental Factors on Electricity Consumption Using Spatial Data Mining and Artificial Neural Network: A Case Study inYazd City
Authors: Sarsangi Alireza , Toomanian Ara , Samany Najmeh Neysani , Kiavarz Majid , Saraei Mohammad Hossein
Published: September 2024

Introduction: Modeling energy demand in different energy consuming sectors is a crucial measure for effective management of the energy sector and appropriate policies to increase productivity. The rising importance of energy resources in economic development is evident. Sustainable energy use is crucial for environmental protection and social progress. Understanding the factors affecting energy consumption is essential for effective energy management. Therefore, the purpose of the current study is to investigate the impact of environmental factors on household electricity consumption in Yazd city.
Materials and Methods: In the present research, various environmental factors affecting electricity consumption, including air pollution, air temperature in homes, ground surface temperature, and green space were investigated. The effects of these factors on electricity consumption of subscribers were investigated with ANN and  apriori methods.
Results: Among the environmental factors, the distance to the regional park, the area of the park, and the amount of vegetation at a distance of 300m have the greatest impact, respectively, and the average summer air temperature, the amount of vegetation at a radius of 500 m, the distance from the local park, and the average summer NDVI have had the smallest effect. Unlike neural network methods, apriori presents relationships between parameters affecting electricity consumption transparently in the form of rules.
Conclusion: It's used to identify the most frequently occurring elements and meaningful associations in a dataset. Greenspace can be a mitigation strateegy for reduction of energy consumption.
Investigating the Level of Metal’s Toxicity in Used Cell Phone Batteries by TCLP and WET Methods
Authors: Ebrahimi Ali Asghar , Gholami Maryam , Khashij Maryam , Shamsizadeh Zahra , Weysi Keywan , Ehrampoush Mohammad Hassan , Pourafshar Mohsen , Nasab Habibeh
Published: September 2024

Introduction: Batteries are widely used in all kinds of electrical and electronic equipment. These batteries contain several metals that lead to the leakage of metals into the soil and underground water in the burial places, which pose serious risks to human health and the environment.
Materials and Methods: In this study, the concentration of 15 metals (Ag, Al, As, Ba, Cd, Co, Cs, Cu, Fe, Li, Mn, Pb, Sr, Zn, Ni) in different components of 7 used battery models was investigated using Waste Extraction Test (WET) and Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure (TCLP) toxicity. The concentration of metals was measured by Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-OES). Metal concentrations were compared with the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) and California Department of Toxic Substances Control (CDTSC) standards.
 Results: The results showed that the average concentration of metals in both WET and TCLP methods was high, but the concentration of most metals in WET method was relatively higher than in TCLP method.
Conclusion: The results showed that the recovery of metals from batteries is necessary, moreover  safe burial of  batteries is essential to reduce environmental risks.
Public-Private Partnership: An Effective Solution for Providing Health Services to the Elderly
Authors: Gharaee Hojatolah , Sadeghi Mahdi
Published: September 2024

Population aging has become a significant phenomenon in the 21st century due to rising life expectancy and declining fertility rates. The global elderly population, estimated at 727 million in 2020, is projected to double by 2050, with developing countries facing a greater proportion of elderly residents. This demographic shift will impact various sectors of society, including healthcare, leading to increased demand for medical services and higher costs. Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) are an effective mechanism to improve access to health services for the elderly, enhance service quality, and manage costs. It is crucial for policymakers to explore global experiences with PPP to develop strategies that address the unique economic and social conditions in Iran, ensuring an effective response to the rapid changes in healthcare needs for the aging population.
Simulating the Effects of Internal Marketing on Patient Satisfaction Development in Hospitals of Ardabil Province, Iran
Authors: Zarei Ghasem , Naghavi Seyed Ali
Published: September 2024

Background: To gain and maintain stable competitive advantages, hospitals are currently seeking novel strategies for Patient Satisfaction Development (PSD). To this end, hospitals are required to establish strategies for improvement and provide basic platforms; one of these strategies is Internal Marketing (IM). This type of marketing typically demands customer-oriented behavior and thinking by all hospital staff in terms of dealing with patients. Accordingly, the current research recommends a simulation pattern for PSD within hospitals in Ardabil Province, Iran, considering the predominant factors affecting IM.
Methods: This study, utilizing a qualitative-quantitative research design, was conducted on a statistical population of 17 theoretical (the university professors) and experimental (hospital managers) experts. The sampling technique was of the non-probability type and purposive, and the data collection tools were interviews and questionnaires. In the qualitative phase, the main themes and sub-themes of IM in the hospitals of Ardabil Province, Iran, were initially identified by thematic analysis. Then, in the quantitative phase, the major factors were prioritized via the fuzzy Delphi method, and finally, the effects of IM on PSD were simulated through agent-based modeling. Data analysis in the qualitative phase was done with MaxQDA 20 software, and Microsoft Excel and AnyLogic 8.9 were operated in the quantitative one.
Results: Based on the study results, 35 primary codes, 12 sub-themes, and three main themes (organizational, occupational, and individual) were obtained. In light of this, the organizational factors were introduced as the most effective ones. Besides, the study results suggested that the PSD prospect in the hospitals of Ardabil Province, Iran, reached 70 % at the end of the simulation.
Conclusion: According to the study results, it is suggested that hospital managers devote much attention to the effective factors in IM, specially the organizational ones, as they play a leading role in PSD.
Investigating the Relationship between Communication Skills of Treatment Staff and Patient’s Safety Culture: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Mousavi Seyed Masood , Raadabadi Mahdi , Bahariniya Sajjad , Dehghan Niri Fatemeh
Published: September 2024

Background: One of the most important effective factors in increasing patient satisfaction and improving health and treatment results is proper communication between physician and nurse, and the patient. The present study was conducted with the aim of determining the relationship between the communication skills of the medical staff and patient’s safety culture.
Methods: This was an analytical study conducted among 277 working medical staff including nurses, paramedics, full-time geographical employment doctors and anesthesia, and operating room technicians in Shahid Sadoughi Hospital in Yazd by stratified random sampling in 2022. The instrument used was the safety culture standard questionnaire made by the health care quality and research agency and communication skills of Barton J. Data analysis was done with SPSS 25 software, Mann-Whitney, Kruskal-Wallis, and multiple linear regression tests.
Results: The overall mean and standard deviation of patient safety culture was 3.04 ± 0.23, which indicates the average status of safety culture in the studied hospital, and the overall mean of communication skills among medical staff was 3.36 ± 0.40. Which reports a relatively strong level of this skill. The results of linear regression showed that 2 components of communication skills (listening and feedback) have a positive and significant effect on the improvement of patient safety culture, so that they are able to explain 33 percent of the variance of patient safety culture changes.
Conclusion: Based on the findings of the research, the communication skills of the medical staff have a significant effect on patient's safety culture. Therefore, in order to improve the patient’s safety culture among them, special attention should be paid to communication skills because effective communication is considered a vital element in effective care, and in the medical system it has a significant effect on the quality of care and consequently increases the satisfaction of patients.
Designing the Model of Human Resources Analytics in Health System with Grounded Theory
Authors: Zarinsadaf Nahid , Derakhshan Mojgan , Nikpour Amin , Mollaei Hamid Reza
Published: September 2024

Background: Given the necessity of attracting, retaining, and developing human capital within the health system, the process of human resources analytics in this context is of paramount importance, and it plays a significant role in evidence-based decision-making and policy formulation. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to design a model for human resources analytics in the health system.
Methods: This research is practical in nature and utilized a qualitative approach based on grounded theory. In 2023, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 14 experts and managers from Kerman University of Medical Sciences, using purposive sampling until theoretical saturation was achieved. Throughout the process, interviews were continuously compared, and notes were taken during and after the interviews. The collected data from each interview were then analyzed using open, axial, and selective coding with the assistance of MaxQDA20 software. Through categorizing the open codes, axial categories were identified and in the final step, relationships among core categories were established through selective coding. Additionally, the validity and reliability of the findings were assessed and confirmed based on the four criteria of credibility, dependability, confirmability and transferability.
Results: In identifying the codes and categories related to human resources analytics, a total of 370 open codes, 61 subcategories, and 24 main categories were generated. These were ultimately examined across 6 main axes, including the central phenomenon, causal conditions, contextual conditions, intervening conditions, strategies and consequences.
Conclusion: It is recommended that in order to enhance and develop the human resources analytics process within the health system, attention be paid to the extracted model and its dimensions and components, particularly the identified causal conditions, contextual conditions, and strategies
Investigating and Evaluating the Requirement for Development of Universities and Research-Educational Centers of Environmental Health in Iran
Authors: Ghayurdoost Farhad , Mansour Sepideh Nemati , Zolfaghari Firouzsalari Nasim , Gilani Neda , Mosaferi Mohammad
Published: September 2024

Background: As the subject of environmental health knowledge trains specialized and dedicated human resources and offers the quality and quantity of human resources needed for environmental health, future research and foresight are particularly crucial. This study examines research and educational facilities in the field of environmental health in terms of the presence of expert human resources and the development of facilities. This study addressed educational and research centers in the field of environmental health in terms of its development and the presence of expert human resources.
Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional research was conducted in 2018-2019. First, a description of the ten areas of higher education has been presented and information related to indicators such as the presence of health faculty, the number of professors and research centers has been presented in the form of tables and figures. The data were analyzed using SPSS 22 software.
Results: The findings indicated that there are regional differences in the proportion of faculty members to the total population. This ratio was lower in regions 5 and 10, but was significantly higher in region 8 compared to the national average (4.5 persons per million people). Also, the eastern provinces had a high number of environmental health student training centers. There were differences in the number of environmental health research facilities across different regions, and some provinces had none at all. The highest number of people working with environmental health degrees was found in region 5, while the lowest number was found in region 7.
Conclusion: The findings showed that the development of education should be based on related factors, including population, and the environmental health facilities and priorities of each of the regions should be the basis of educational-research center development, student admission, and attracting faculty members and expert staff in order to be more productive in the field of environmental health engineering.
Investigating the Relationship between Moral Intelligence and Attitude towards Patient Safety in Nurses Working at Shahid Sadoughi Teaching Hospital in Yazd in 2023
Authors: Ranjbar Mohammad , Azmoudeh Zahra , Shafghat Tahereh , Dehghani Tafti Arefeh
Published: September 2024

Background: Moral intelligence in nurses is of particular importance due to the human and moral nature of their job and profession. Moral intelligence can provide a rule for the correct functioning of humans and is considered a predictive factor of behavior. The moral intelligence of nurses refers to their ability to distinguish right from wrong and adhere to ethical principles. Nurses with higher moral intelligence show more commitment to patient safety and adherence to professional protocols and have a more positive attitude toward patient safety. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between moral intelligence and attitude towards patient safety in nurses working at Shahid Sadoughi Teaching Hospital in Yazd in 2023.
Methods: The present study was a descriptive-analytical one conducted cross-sectionally in 2023. The statistical population included 237 nurses working in Shahid Sadoughi Teaching Hospital, Yazd, who were selected by stratified random sampling. Two standard questionnaires with a 5-point Likert scale were used to collect data. Data were analyzed by SPSS24 using descriptive statistics, one-way analysis of variance and Pearson's correlation coefficient.
Results: The average moral intelligence of the studied nurses was 135.22 ± 22.30, and the average attitude of the nurses towards patient safety was 72.65 ± 17.32, indicating high moral intelligence and an average attitude towards patients safety in nurses in Shahid Sadoughi University. The results of Pearson's correlation coefficient showed that there is a positive and significant correlation between moral intelligence and nurses' attitude towards patient safety (r = 0.19, p = 0.003).
Conclusion: Moral intelligence plays a role in predicting nurses' attitude towards patient safety; therefore, it seems that by strengthening the moral intelligence of nurses, their attitude towards patient safety can be influenced. To strengthen the moral intelligence of nurses and improve their attitude towards patient safety, professional ethics training, development of critical thinking skills and creation of ethical organizational culture can be used. Also, holding workshops to discuss ethical issues and support from ethical management can strengthen nurses in making ethical decisions and more responsible behavior in the field of patient safety.
Investigating the Effect of Microalgae Bioactive Compounds on Sleep and Mood
Authors: Nowruz Bahareh
Published: September 2024

Introduction: Nowadays, lack of sleep has led to many serious health problems. Meanwhile, cyanobacteria exhibit bioactive properties such as anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, anti-bacterial, anti-parasitic, anti-diabetic, anti-viral, antioxidant, rejuvenating and anti-obesity, making them a suitable option for the production of drugs. Sleep and mental health are closely related, and the negative impact of sleep deprivation on overall health and well-being is exacerbated.
Methods: In this review article, more than 200 journals on databases such as PubMed, Springer, Wiley، Science Direct, Scopus, Web of Sciences, and the list of open access journals were investigated. Keywords such as "microalgae", "bioactive compounds", "unsaturated fatty acids", "sleep disorders", "mood regulation" and "stress" were used for searching.
Results: The results showed that sleep and mental health are closely related, and the negative effect of sleep deprivation on health and overall well-being intensifies is exacerbated. Conventional treatments have a wide range of adverse effects, commonly associated with benzodiazepines and antidepressants.
Conclusion: At present, the significant contribution of microalgae bioactive compounds in sleep management and mental health has not been investigated, which is suggested to be widely studied in the near future.
Anticancer Activities of Synthesized Niosome Nanoparticles Using Artemisia Annua Extract: Caspase3 and Caspase9 Apoptosis Gene Expression Analysis in Breast Cancer Cell Line (MCF-7)
Authors: Rastgar Zahra , Khosravi-Nejad Fariba
Published: September 2024

Introduction: Pharmaceutical formulation of nanoparticles is widely used due to achieving targeted and stable drug release, improving drug solubility and reducing side drug reactions. One of the ways to improve the survival of cancer patients is the treatment using nanocarriers for anticancer drugs. The aim of this study was to synthesize encapsulated nisomes containing the extract of the Artemisia annua and investigate the anticancer and apoptotic effects against breast cancer cell lines.
Methods: In this study, a Niosomes nanocarrier was made and then the extract of Gondwash herb was loaded into it. Its physical and chemical properties were confirmed using SEM, dynamic light scattering (DLS) and zeta potential. Likewise, the encapsulation percentage and release pattern of the extract were investigated. Finally, its anticancer effects against the breast cancer cell line (MCF_7) were investigated and the expression level of apoptotic genes Caspase3 and Caspase9 was studied using Real Time PCR method. At the end, statistical analysis was done by GraphPad Prism software, and cytotoxicity and gene expression data were analyzed by one-way analysis of variance.
Results: The findings showed that the synthesized nanocarrier newsom containing the extract had a spherical structure and its size was 208.1 nanometers, the encapsulation percentage was 62.35% and the surface charge was 22.5. Similarly, newsome nanocarrier containing the extract had significant anticancer effects compared to the free extract and increased the expression of caspase 3 and caspase 9 genes by 1.184 ± 0.34 (P<0.05) and 1.68 ± 0.81, respectively. (P<0.05).
Conclusion: The results showed that the nisome containing the extract of the Gondwash herb increases the anti-cancer and apoptotic effects significantly, and therefore, with further studies in the future, nisome can be used as a targeted drug delivery system for anti-cancer purposes.
Avicenna Viewpoint about Isomorphic Lesions or Koebner Phenomenon in Vitiligo
Authors: Khatami Shabnam , Akhbari Marzieh , Shirbeigi Laila
Published: September 2024

The Article Abstract is not available.
The Frequency of Medicinal Plant Usage during Pregnancy and possible Related Factors; A Cross-Sectional Study from Tehran, Iran
Authors: Shabani Azadeh , Nikbakht Fini Hajar , Farahani Zahra , Yaghmaei Minoo
Published: September 2024

Taking medicinal plants during pregnancy may be associated with geographical, socioeconomic, cultural, and individual factors. The present study was conducted to evaluate the frequency of medicinal plant usage and its influencing factors among pregnant mothers living in Tehran, Iran. A cross-sectional study was conducted (Tehran, Iran; 2019-2020). All pregnant women who attended the prenatal clinic were invited. A written consent was obtained from all subjects before enrolment. Data regarding medicinal plant consumption, the reasons for usage, the cause of preference, the source of advice, and the preparation route were gathered through an interview and the completion of a questionnaire. The recorded data were analyzed to assess the prevalence, indications, and factors influencing medicinal plant usage during pregnancy. Of 326 pregnant women, 105 (32.2%) used at least one, and 221 (67.8%) used no medicinal plant. The most consumed medicinal plant was ginger, followed by peppermint, thyme, frankincense, chicory, and saffron. The main reasons for usage were digestive disease and cold symptoms. The place of receiving prenatal care was the only significant factor affecting herbal medicine consumption (p=0.01). More analyses showed a relatively significant correlation between the participant’s age and medicinal plants usage (p=0.05). The results also showed that belief in low adverse effects and high effectiveness of medicinal plants were the reasons for preference of herbal medicine usage. Furthermore, 37 subjects (35.0%) informed by their family or friends, and 15 (14.3%) consumed medicinal plants on their data. Plants were mainly provided by herbal stores. The results showed a relatively frequent use of medicinal plants. The plants were mostly recommended by families and friends. Future studies with larger sample sizes are suggested to determine possible teratogenicity and safe doses.
A Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing Thai Facial Massage, Chinese Eye Exercise of Acupoints and Standard Treatment in Patients with Dry Eye Disorders
Authors: Leedasawat Pavasut , Sriyakul Kusuma , Phetkate Pratya , Tungsukruthai Parunkul , Patarajierapun Promporn , Sangvatanakul Paradi , Srikaew Nunthiya , Kamalashiran Chuntida
Published: September 2024

Dry eye disorder (DED) is a chronic medical condition that requires ongoing treatment, with increasing prevalence worldwide. Traditional Thai eye exercises (TFM) and Chinese eye exercises of acupoints (CEA) are believed to improve ocular health. The objective of this study is to examine the efficacy and potential adverse effects of TFM and CEA in treating DED compared to standard treatment of lid hygiene (STD). In this 12-week single-blind randomized controlled trial, 84 participants aged 20-60 years with mild to moderate DED were recruited from Thammasat University Hospital, Thailand. They were equally divided into three groups: TFM, CEA, and STD (28 participants each). The participants were trained to self-administer treatments at home. The primary outcomes were OSDI scores, SIT, TBUT, and CSS, while the secondary outcomes were ocular tests, including VA and Likert scale, to measure DED-related symptoms. One-way ANOVA and repeated measures (ANOVA) were used to compare results between groups and study visits, respectively; p-values <0.05 were considered statically significant. The post-treatment results showed a gradual improvement of OSDI (p value <0.001), TBUT (p value <0.01), and SIT (p value <0.01) in all groups. CSS improved significantly only in CEA groups (p value <0.05). No significant differences were found between the study groups, except for SIT in week 4 and week 12 when there was a greater reduction of SIT in CEA compared to TFM and STD groups (p < 0.05). No adverse event was observed in all study groups throughout the intervention program. TFM and CEA could be effectively used as alternative treatments for STD without any negative side effects.