bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Usability Evaluation of the Electronic Medical Record of the Rapid Response Team: a Case Study
Authors: Karajizadeh Mehrdad , Nikandish Reza , Yousefianzadeh Omid , Hamedi Zahra , Saeidnia Hamid Reza
Published: December 2021

Aim: This study was conducted to determine the usability of the rapid response team (RRT) electronic medical records (EMRs) system at an Abu-Ali-Sina organ transplant hospital, Shiraz, Iran.
Method: This cross-sectional study was carried out in partnership with 25 direct members of RRT includes nurses and anesthesia technicians who were on the shift during the data collection for two months. To evaluate, the Questionnaire for User Interaction Satisfaction (QUIS) version 7 was used. Data were analyzed by SPSS version 19.
Results: A total of 20 out of 25 questionnaires were obtained. Seven (25.0 %) of 27 sections were higher than seven, and all areas were higher than five. The highest rankings were for 1) reading characters on the computer screen 2) highlighting on the screen simplify task 3) overall reactions: wonderful and learning to operate the system.
Conclusion: This study demonstrates the usability of the hospital RRT for the EMRs system and over the moderate. However, the flexibility and capability of the rapid response for EMRs tool require to be improved.
Usage of Smartphone Apps in Self-care of Patients Undergoing Hemodialysis: A Scoping Review
Authors: Jebraeily Mohamad , Dehghani Mehrdad , Sheykhotayefeh Mostafa , Habibi-Koolaee Mahdi
Published: December 2021

Aim: Using smartphone apps can be a valuable tool for self-managing dialysis patients. This study aimed to review the usage of smartphone apps in the self-care of patients undergoing hemodialysis.
Method: Resources were searched on three bibliographic databases, including PubMed, Scopus, and CINAHL, investigated from May 2005 through May 2021, using key terms, such as smartphone apps, mobile health, hemodialysis, chronic kidney disease, self-care, and self-management. Selecting articles were based on the PRISMA flow diagram.
Results: The smartphone apps used for undergoing hemodialysis patients were categorized into five main categories. These categories included dietary monitoring, treatment adherence, lifestyle management, symptoms monitoring, and patient training.
Conclusion: Smartphone apps must be developed by cooperation and supervision of healthcare agencies to improve patient adoption and ensure confidentiality. Further research efforts are needed to assess the impact of apps on quality of life outcomes through randomized controlled trials and cohort studies. In developing apps, the needs and preferences of patients must be considered.
Fibrolamellar Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Report of a Rare Case with Rapid Progression and Unusual Metastatic Sites
Authors: Shirvan Adeleh Rezagholizadeh , Sotoudeh Sarvazad , Tahmasebi Mamak
Published: December 2021

Fibrolamellar hepatocellular carcinoma (FLHCC) is a rare primary liver cancer that occurs in young adults, and its biology is not well known. We present a 21-year-old woman with metastatic liver cancer 6 months after undergoing embolization procedures for a typical hemangioma. The pathological investigation confirmed metastatic FLHCC. Despite liver mass resection and lung metastasectomy, after 3 months, the tumor recurred. In 18F-FDG PET-CT scan, lung, ovary, colon, and peritoneal invasions were reported. Unfortunately, the patient died a year after diagnosis due to a rapid progression and multiple unusual metastatic sites.
Preoperative Axillary Ultrasound-guided Wire Localization and Lymphoscintigraphy for Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy in Breast Cancer Patients
Authors: Elyasinia Fezzeh , Hemmasi Homa , Toolabi Karamollah , Alikhassi Afsaneh , Sohrabi Maralani Mehran , Sadeghian Ehsan
Published: December 2021

Background: Breast cancer has the highest incidence and mortality among female malignant tumors. Breast cancer with negative axillary lymph nodes has been diag- nosed mainly at an early stage. Sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) is a standard screening technique for patients with early-stage breast cancer and clinically nega- tive lymph nodes. Lymphoscintigraphy (sentinel lymph node mapping) has been reg- ularly used as the standard method for SLNB. Today, ultrasound-guided wire locali- zation (USGWL) is a well-established technique with superior outcomes. Therefore, we attempted to determine whether preoperative UGWL and lymphoscintigraphy (blue dye and isotope injection) improve SLN detection and false-negative rate in breast cancer patients undergoing SLNB and identify clinical factors that may affect the diagnostic accuracy of axillary ultrasound (AUS).
Methods: Between December 2018 and June 2019, 55 patients with clinical T1- 3N0 breast cancer eligible for an SLNB at Imam Khomeini Hospital in Tehran were included in our study. Tumor characteristics and demographic data were collect- ed by reviewing medical records and questionnaires prepared by our surgical team. The day before SLNB, all patients underwent ultrasound-guided wire localization of SLN. Lymphoscintigraphy was performed with an unfiltered 99mTc-labelled sulfur colloid peritumoral injection followed by methylene blue dye injection. The results were analyzed based on the permanent pathology report.
Results: Among the 55 patients, 71.8% of SLNs were detected by wire localization, while 57.8% were found by methylene blue mapping and 59.6% by gamma probe detection. Compared with wire localization and isotope injection, the methylene blue dye technique had a low sensitivity (72.2%), while both wire localization and isotope injection reached 77.8%. The sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of UGWL were 77.8%, 42.1%, and 65.4%, respectively. Otherwise, methylene blue dye and isotope injection accuracy was 47.3% and 50.1%, respectively. Furthermore, there was a significant relationship between BMI, tumor size, laterality, reactive ALN, and the accuracy of preoperative AUS. But there was no significant correlation between age, weight, height, tumor biopsy, tumor location, the time interval between methylene blue dye and isotope injection to surgery, and also the type of surgery to the accuracy of preoperative AUS.
Conclusion: Preoperative UGWL can effectively identify SLNs compared to lym- phoscintigraphy (blue dye and isotope injection) in early breast cancer patients un- dergoing SLNB.
A Study on the Relationship Between Tumor Size, Tumor Grade and Lymph Node Involvement in Canine Mammary Cancer: Simulation of Tumor Behavior in Human Breast Cancer
Authors: Rismanchi Sanaz , Mortazavi Pejman , Muhammadnejad Samad
Published: December 2021

Background: In the last two decades, canine mammary cancer has played an essential role in human breast cancer research. There are various similarities between biological and clinical features of canine breast cancer and female breast cancer in many cases. Clinical studies and evaluation of prognostic factors in canine mammary cancer can increase reliability in generalizing results to human cancers. This study was performed in the direction of comparative oncology.
Methods: We collected clinicopathological data of an invasive type of canine mammary carcinoma from clinical records and pathology reports. Age, tumor laterality, tumor size, lymph node status, and tumor grade were recorded, and the relationships between the parameters were evaluated using linear regression analysis.
Results: Ninety-seven patients were included in the study, and the mean age was 10.06 ± 2.73 years. The left mammary gland was involved in 51% of cases, and pT2 was the most common tumor size. Lymph nodes were involved in 27% of patients, and 43% of tumors were grade I. Statistical analysis showed no relationship between tumor size and laterality with other clinicopathological features. However, there was a statistically significant relationship between tumor size and tumor grade, and lymph node status. As the tumor size increased, tumor grade and the risk of lymph node involvement raised.
Conclusion: Similar results of this study to breast cancer in women show that canine mammary carcinoma is a suitable model in comparative oncology research. Dogs live shorter than humans so that researchers can get the results of treatment and perform survival rate assessments faster in clinical trials. By considering ethical principles, dogs with breast cancer may replace phases I and II of human clinical trials in some cancer types soon.
The Role of Cancer Charities in Breast Cancer Prevention in Iran
Authors: Nahvijou Azin , Mohagheghi Mohammad Ali , Guiti Massoumeh , Mahouri Afssoun , Fathnia Tabari Nafisseh , Raesspour Fatemeh , Abedi Roghayeh , Rabiean Azin , Khaleghi Fatemeh , Rezaei Leili , Barazandeh Rana , Mousavinezhad Mirhojat , Khazen Ali Akbar , Ahmadian Parisa , Zendehdel Kazem
Published: December 2021

Background: Cancer is a significant public health problem, and its burden is increasing globally, especially in low- and middle-income countries. Cancer charities, alongside the government, could address health issues based on their goals. We studied the activities of cancer charities related to breast cancer (BC) prevention in Iran.
Methods: We designed a situational analysis study. We abstracted the cancer charities’ objectives that were members of the “Iran Cancer National Network of NGOs and Charities (IRCNNC).” We also searched for their international activities. We reviewed the BC prevention programs conducted by Iranian cancer charities and collected their data and information regarding BC awareness and screening.
Results: Overall, 43 charities were an active member of the IRCNNC and were engaged in 6 areas, including 1) financial and non-financial supports, 2) providing medical services, 3) providing accommodation to companions of the patients traveling from other cities, 4) supplying infrastructure and medical equipment to cancer hospitals, 5) conducting scientific and research activities, and 6) running educational and awareness campaigns. Most actions were on financial and non-financial supports. Seven charities are a member of the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC). Five charities reported their movement on BC prevention.
Conclusion: Most charities did not document their prevention programs and did not follow an organized screening program. Training and capacity building is needed to support the cancer charities for the evidence-based cancer prevention program.
Cancer Statistics in I.R. Iran in 2020
Authors: Zendehdel Kazem
Published: December 2021

The article's abstract is not available.
Effectiveness of Coronavirus Vaccines against Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and Its New Variants
Authors: Abdi Ghavidel Afshin , Rojhannezhad Mahbubeh , Kazemi Bahram , Bandehpour Mojgan
Published: December 2021

The widespread outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 in late 2019 caused many people worldwide to die or suffer from certain clinical complications even after the recovery. The virus has many social and economic adverse effects. Studies on severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) have specified that spike, surface glycoprotein antigen, is considered as a major target to stimulate the immune system. This glycoprotein binds to the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 on the surface of human cells especially lung epithelial cells and facilitates the virus entry. Therefore, the immune response stimulated by vaccination targeting this antigen may cause immunity against the whole virus. Currently, many companies are working on SARS-CoV-2 vaccines. They include ‘traditional’ vaccines like attenuated or inactivated virus platforms as well as the brand-new generations of vaccines such as viral vector-based, subunit, nucleic acid-based, and virus-like particle vaccines. Certainly, each vaccine platform presents several advantages and disadvantages affecting its efficacy and safety which is the main topic of this paper.
Studying the Effects of Vitamin A on the Severity of Allergic Rhinitis and Asthma
Authors: Feng Linlin , Sun Fengyan , Chen Yan , Athari Seyyed Shamsadin , Chen Xiaoyun
Published: December 2021

Allergic asthma is a complex lung disease characterized by breathlessness, airway inflammation, and obstruction. Allergy and allergic rhinitis (AR) are the main triggers of asthma. Vitamin A is an important supplementary factor for the physiological activation of the immune system. In the present study, we investigated the effects of vitamin A on the exacerbation of allergic asthma symptoms.
BALB/c mice were allocated to four groups. Asthma was created in two groups, and in the other two groups, rhinitis was induced. One of the asthma groups and one of the rhinitis groups orally received vitamin A (20 IU/g for 15 days). The levels of Immunoglobulin (Ig) E, histamine, leukotriene B4 (LTB4), Cysteinyl leukotriene receptor (Cys-LT), interleukin (IL)-4, IL-5, IL-13, and IL-35 as well as eosinophil peroxidase activity, were measured. Also, the histopathology of mice lungs was evaluated.
The levels of total IgE, LTB4, Cys-LT, IL-4, IL-5, IL-17, and IL-33, eosinophil peroxidase activity, perivascular and peribronchial inflammation significantly decreased in vitamin A-treated asthma and rhinitis groups compared to non-treated groups. Also, IL-13 and histamine levels, hyperplasia of the goblet cell, and hyper-secretion of the mucus insignificantly decreased in vitamin A-treated asthma and rhinitis groups.
Asthma and AR are common diseases that are generally developed due to the dysregulation of the immune system. Vitamin A plays an important role in controlling the immunopathologic mechanisms of allergic diseases. Vitamin A could be a useful supplement in managing AR and asthma by decreasing the severity of inflammatory responses. Therefore, control of vitamin A deficiency is recommended in Allergy.
Pulmonary Radiological Manifestations of Humoral and Combined Immunodeficiencies in a Tertiary Pediatric Center
Authors: Khalili Mitra , Farzi Hossein , Darougar Sepideh , Hajijoo Fatemeh , Mesdaghi Mehrnaz , Mansouri Mahboubeh , Babaie Delara , Hashemitari Amir , Eslami Narges , Chavoshzadeh Zahra
Published: December 2021

Respiratory diseases are considered as significant causes of morbidity and mortality in primary immunodeficiencies. This study aimed to reveal the radiologic patterns of thoracic involvement in these disorders.
A total of 58 patients, including 38 cases with combined cellular-humoral and 20 cases with humoral immunodeficiencies, were enrolled in this study. The “combined” group consisted of 12 cases with severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) and 26 cases with combined immunodeficiency. The “humoral” group included seven patients with Hyper IgM syndrome (HIGMs), seven cases with common variable immunodeficiency (CVID), three patients with X-linked agammaglobulinemia, and three patients with other types of humoral primary immunodeficiencies (PIDs). The mean age of patients at the time of evaluation was 3.3±3.8 and 5.3±3.9 years in combined and humoral groups, respectively. The findings of chest X-rays and CT scans were interpreted and compared.
There was a significant difference for alveolar opacification between combined and humoral immunodeficiencies (58% vs. 30%). The bronchopneumonia-like pattern was detected as a significant finding in patients with SCID (42%) and HIGMs (43%). Atrophy of the thymus was detected significantly often in cases of SCID (67%). Two patients with CVID and lipopolysaccharide-responsive and beige-like anchor protein deficiency showed parenchymal changes of granulomatous lymphocytic interstitial lung disease. No significant difference was detected for bronchiectasis, bronchitis/bronchiolitis patterns, pleural effusion, and thoracic lymphadenopathy. lymphadenopathy.
Distinct subtypes of primary immunodeficiency may provoke differing and comparable radiological patterns of thoracic involvement; which can clue the clinician and radiologist to the diagnosis of the disease.
Evaluation of MicroRNA-125b-5p and Transcription Factors BLIMP1 and IRF4 Expression in Unsolved Common Variable Immunodeficiency Patients
Authors: Hamidi Esfahani Zahra , Yazdani Reza , Shahkarami Sepideh , Babaha Fateme , Abolhassani Hassan , Sadr Maryam , Pourfathollah Ali Akbar , Aghamohammadi Asghar
Published: December 2021

Common variable immunodeficiency (CVID) is the most prevalent form of symptomatic primary humoral immunodeficiencies characterized by failure in the final differentiation of B lymphocytes. The majority of CVID cases have no identified genetic defect, and epigenetic alteration could be involved in the pathogenesis of CVID. Hence, we aimed to evaluate the expression of hsa-miR-125b-5p -and, B lymphocyte-induced maturation protein-1(BLIMP-1) and interferon regulatory protein-4 (IRF-4) in a group of CVID patients with no definitive genetic diagnosis in comparison with healthy individuals.
Ten CVID patients (all known genes excluded) and 10 age and sex-matched healthy controls participated in the study. B lymphocytes were isolated and expression of miR-125b-5p, IRF4, and BLIMP1 were evaluated by real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Moreover, B cell subsets were analyzed by flow cytometry.
The results showed that the relative expression of miR-125b-5p in CVID patients was increased while it was decreased for the BLIMP1 and IRF4 transcription factors compared with the healthy controls. Although a reduction was observed in switched and non-switched memory B cells among all high-miR patients, these subsets were decreased in patients with normal miR expression (71.0% and 85.0%, respectively).
Our results suggest that overexpression of miR-125b-5p affects the terminal differentiation of B cells in a selected group of CVID patients by downregulating the BLIMP-1 gene and more intensively for the IRF-4 gene expressions.
Immunomodulatory Effect of Human Umbilical Cord Blood-derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells on Activated T-lymphocyte
Authors: Lotfinejad Parisa , Shamsasenjan Karim , Baradaran Behzad , Safarzadeh Elham , Kazemi Tohid , Movassaghpour Ali Akbar
Published: December 2021

Many studies have been performed about regenerative and immunomodulatory properties of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and their application in different treatment approaches. The present study aimed to investigate the immunomodulatory effect of umbilical cord blood-derived mesenchymal stem cells (UCB-MSCs) on the gene expression profile of cytokines in stimulated T-lymphocytes.
For this purpose, MSCs were isolated from umbilical cord blood samples and cultured in Dulbecco's Modified Eagle Medium supplemented with 10% fetal bovine serum. The nature of MSCs was identified by flow cytometry analysis and differentiation to the adipocyte and osteocyte lineage. Moreover, to investigate the immunomodulatory effects of MSCs on T cells, a co-culture system was designed and expression levels of interleukin (IL)-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, IL-13, interferon-gamma (IFN-γ), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) genes were measured; using the real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) technique.
Our results demonstrated the ability of MSCs to differentiate into adipocyte and osteocyte lineages. Further investigation also displayed that although UCB-MSCs could significantly reduce the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines like IL-2, IL-6, IFN-γ, and TNF-α in activated T-lymphocytes, they noticeably potentiated the expression levels of IL-4, IL-10, IL-13, and TGF-β in the co-culture setting.
In conclusion, UCB-MSCs have immunomodulatory effects on activated T-lymphocytes in favor of anti-inflammatory responses.
The Direct Influence of Cytomegalovirus Lysate on the Natural Killer Cell Receptor Repertoire
Authors: Soleimanian Saeede , Yaghobi Ramin , Karimi Mohammad Hossein , Geramizadeh Bita , Roozbeh Jamshid
Published: December 2021

Natural killer (NK) cells are essential for controlling certain viral infections, including cytomegalovirus (CMV). In particular, the importance of NK cells in the context of CMV infection is underscored by the adaptive capabilities of these cells. Evidence suggests that some viruses can directly interfere with NK cell compartments and their activation and lead to shape-shifting the NK cell receptor repertoire. Still, it remains unknown whether the CMV can interact with NK cells without intermediaries. Here, we examined whether the direct effects of CMV lysate alter phenotypical properties of NK cells.
To investigate this issue, NK cells were isolated from the blood of CMV seropositive healthy donors by negative magnetic separation. Isolated NK cells were cultured in the presence of CMV lysate and analyzed for the expression of NKG2A, NKG2C, and CD57 by FACS caliber.
The results showed that NKG2C expression is significantly upregulated in the presence of CMV lysate compared to without stimulated group (mean increase, 6.65 %; 95% CI, 0.2582 to 13.02; p=0.043; R square: 0.38). Likewise, results have shown a significant decrease in the frequency of NKG2A+CD57- NK cell subsets (p=0.005; 95% CI, -13.49 to -3.151; R square: 0.5957) in the stimulated group compared to without stimulated ones.
According to these results, CMV may drive a direct influence on NK cell receptor repertoire, including the expansion of NK cells expressing NKG2C receptor, which is needed for further studies.
Association of Pro-inflammatory Cytokine Gene Polymorphism with Meniere’s Disease in an Iranian Sample
Authors: Kouhi Ali , Shakeri Sahar , Yazdani Nasrin , Shababi Niloufar , Mohseni Anita , Mohseni Alireza , Sadr Maryam , Mohammad Amoli Mahsa , Rezaei Arezoo , Rezaei Nima
Published: December 2021

Meniere’s disease (MD) is known as a rare chronic disorder of the inner ear with elevated serum levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines like tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, Interleukin (IL)-1, and IL-6. This study aims to evaluate genes polymorphism in some pro-inﬂammatory cytokines in a group of Iranian MD patients compared to the healthy controls.
In this case-control study, 25 MD patients and 139 healthy controls were enrolled. DNA was extracted from blood samples, and single nucleotide polymorphisms were detected using polymerase chain reaction with sequence-specific primers assay. MD patients and controls were examined in terms of allele, genotype, and haplotype frequency of pro-inflammatory cytokine genes.
Only the frequencies of alleles A/G at position -238 in the promoter of the TNF-α gene differed significantly between MD patients and healthy controls. G to A allele ratio was 23 and 3.6 in MD and controls, respectively. In individuals with MD, genotype GG was found to be significantly more prevalent at position -238 of the TNF-α gene promoter sequence. In addition, the heterozygote AG variant of -238 A/G TNF-α gene polymorphism was lower in MD patients than controls. Compared to the control group, the haplotype TNF- (-308, -238) AG was higher in MD patients, although not statistically significant.
This is the first study that we know of that evaluates the frequencies of pro-inflammatory cytokine genes in an Iranian MD sample. This study shows the association between TNF-α and susceptibility to MD.
Dysregulation of Angiogenesis and Inflammatory Genes in Endometrial Mesenchymal Stem Cells and Their Contribution to Endometriosis
Authors: Heydari Shermineh , Kashani Ladan , Noruzinia Mehrdad
Published: December 2021

Endometriosis is a common, chronic, inflammatory disorder in women, characterized by the presence of endometrial tissue outside the uterus cavity. The disease affects ~10% of women during their reproductive age. There are some debates on the pathogenesis of endometriosis and its mechanism among scientists; therefore, different hypotheses have been suggested. According to Sampson's theory, a possible mechanism for seeding ectopic endometriotic lesions is a dysregulation of endometrial mesenchymal stem cells (eMSCs).
In the present study, we evaluated the expression of candidate genes in eMSCs obtained from endometriosis patients and compared them with non-endometriosis female patients. In addition, bioinformatic analysis was conducted to uncover the genes in the list of our co-expression gene network in endometriosis.
According to our results, the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor A, C-X-C-motif chemokine ligand 8, interleukin-6, and intercellular adhesion molecule-1 genes were up-regulated in the eMSCs isolated from endometriosis patients. There was no significant difference in the expression of the LaminB1 gene between the endometriosis and non-endometriosis patients. On the other hand, our bioinformatics analysis demonstrated that co-expressed genes were enriched in the cytokine signaling pathway.
Our study provides valuable insights into the gene expression dysregulation in eMSCs derived from endometriosis patients and suggests a possible function for co-expressed networks in the pathogenesis of endometriosis. To confirm the results, more investigations are required.
CD8+T-cells Co-expressing PD-1 and TIGIT Are Highly Frequent in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia
Authors: Hajiasghar-Sharbaf Reza , Asgarian-Omran Hossein , Valadan Reza , Hossein-Nattaj Hadi , Shekarriz Ramin , Zaboli Ehsan , Janbabaei Ghasem , Tehrani Mohsen
Published: December 2021

The role of immune checkpoint receptors in T-cell exhaustion has been demonstrated in several cancers. We investigated the co-expression of TIGIT/PD-1 and LAG-3/PD-1 cells in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL).
The frequencies of TIGIT+PD-1+CD8+and LAG-3+PD-1+CD8+cells and relative mRNA expression of LSECtin and CD155 were examined in PBMCs from 33 CLL patients and 20 controls.
The percentage of TIGIT+PD-1+CD8+cells was significantly higher in CLL patients than in control subjects, with the preference in advanced-stage patients. However, LAG-3+PD-1+CD8+cell percentage was significantly lower in CLL patients than in the control subjects, and no significant differences were found between the early and advanced stages of the disease. An increase in the mRNA expression level of LSECtin, but not that of CD155, was observed in CLL patients compared to the control subjects.
Collectively, a higher co-expression of PD-1 and TIGIT on CD8+ T-cells in CLL compared to control subjects suggests an important role of TIGIT in T-cell exhaustion in CLL patients especially those with advanced disease.
Evaluation of NLRP3 and IL-18 Levels after Periodontal Therapy
Authors: Shahbeik Shahrzad , Taleghani Ferial , Sattari Mandana , Mohammadi Mahyar Mahvash , Moravej Mohammadreza
Published: December 2021

The progression of periodontitis depends on interactions between the periodontal pathogens and the host immune cytokines, including interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-18. Production of IL-1β is regulated by NOD-like receptors family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3). This study aimed to evaluate the effect of periodontal treatment on the concentrations of IL-18 and NLRP3 in patients with chronic periodontitis.
In this experimental study, 18 patients with chronic periodontitis and a mean age of 46.2±8.95 years, were included. The gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) was collected at the beginning of the study, 4 weeks after non-surgical (phase I), and 4 weeks after surgical periodontal treatment. The levels of NLRP3 and IL-18 were measured; using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Pearson correlation test was used to analyze the concentration of NLRP3 and IL-18 before and after the treatments with CAL and PD.
There was a significant association between the level of NLRP3 and the mean values of PD and CAL before treatment. After each treatment phase, a significant decrease was observed in the NLRP3 level. There was no significant relationship between IL-18 and clinical parameters before and after periodontal treatments.
Given the possible association between the level of NLRP3 and clinical parameters, we suggest it as a possible indicator of inflammation in chronic periodontitis and an index for evaluating the treatment outcome.
Identification of Antibodies Against Neutrophil Surface Antigens in Two Iranian Patients with Autoimmune Neutropenia
Authors: Esmaeili Behnaz , Bayat Behnaz , Fazlollahi Mohamad Reza , Moradi Leila , Kalantari Arash , Nourbakhsh Seyed Mohammad Kazem , Pourpak Zahra
Published: December 2021

Autoimmune neutropenia is a type of immune-mediated neutropenia, caused by antibody-induced neutrophil destruction. Here, we report two cases (a 3-year-old boy and a 9-year-old girl) with suspected autoimmune neutropenia. The presence of neutrophil antibodies in the sera of these two patients was investigated; using standard neutrophil antibody screening tests such as granulocyte immunofluorescence test (GIFT), granulocyte agglutination test (GAT), and lymphocyte immunofluorescence test (LIFT). A positive reactivity with two-panel cells was found in GIFT. No reactivities with panel cells were observed in GAT and LIFT. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report for detecting the neutrophil reactive antibodies; using genotyped neutrophils in patients with autoimmune neutropenia in Iran. The final diagnosis of our patients was primary autoimmune neutropenia for the boy and autoimmune neutropenia associated with familial Mediterranean fever for the girl.
Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation Associated with Large Deletion of Immunoglobulin Heavy Chain
Authors: Khalili Abbas , Yadegari Amir Hosein , Delavari Samaneh , Yazdani Reza , Abolhassani Hassan
Published: December 2021

Although the majority of monogenic defects underlying primary immunodeficiency are microlesions, large lesions like large deletions are rare and constitute less than 10% of these patients. The immunoglobulin heavy chain (IGH) locus is one of the common regions for such genetic alterations. This study describes a rare case of autosomal recessive agammaglobulinemia with a homozygous large deletion in chromosome 14q32.33 (106067756-106237742) immunoglobulin heavy chain clusters with an unusual and severe skin infection and disseminated intravascular coagulopathy.
Reduced Lung Function and Progression to Prediabetes: A Prospective Study
Authors: Karnain Wadoo Ovais , Ahmad Ishtiaq , Sayeed Sheikh Imran
Published: December 2021

Objective: Prediabetes is a state that people have blood glucose levels higher than normal but still not in diabetes range. There is a close relationship between impaired lung function and diabetes mellitus (DM). Reduced lung function can be present before the clinical evidence of diabetes or insulin resistance.
Materials and Methods: The total number of subjects in this longitudinal study was 503 and compared with apparently healthy Kashmiri adults. All the subjects, at the time of their first visit, underwent Fasting Plasma Glucose (FPG) estimation, 2- hour oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) and spirometry (FVC, FEV1 & FEV1/FVC). Those subjects who had normal glucose tolerance (NGT) were retested for glycemic status and spirometric values after a follow-up period of 2-18 (mean=10) months.
Results: Out of total 503 subjects on follow up 483 (96%) had NGT and 20 (4%) had prediabetes. Percent predicted forced vital capacity (FVC) and % predicted forced expiratory volume in 1st second (FEV1) were significantly lower (P-value< 0.001) while as % predicted FEV1/FVC was significantly higher (P-value< 0.001) in prediabetes as compared to NGT group.
Conclusion: Results of our study point out a predominantly restrictive pattern of lung dysfunction in the prediabetes group as compared to the NGT group.
Access to Anti-Diabetic Medicines among Patients Attending Tertiary Health Facilities in Oyo State, Nigeria
Authors: Oladapo Akinyemi Oluwaseun , Ayeni Babatunde , Ilesanmi Olayinka Stephen , Owopetu Oluwatomi
Published: December 2021

Objective: The management of Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is long-term and can be expensive. This study aimed to describe access to anti-diabetic medicines among patients in tertiary health care facilities in Oyo State, Nigeria.
Materials and Methods: This was a hospital-based cross-sectional study. The study sites were the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, and Ladoke Akintola University Teaching Hospital, Ogbomosho. It was conducted among 366 diabetic patients who had been attending the endocrinology clinic of these two tertiary health institutions for at least one year. Data analysis was done with the Statistical Program for Social Sciences.
Results: Female participants were 186 (50.8%) and 298 (85.6%) depended on close relatives to purchase their drugs. Those who had difficulties affording their anti-diabetic medications were 142 (38.8%) and 80 (56.3%) preferred buying a cheaper brand of anti-diabetic medication. Also, 136 (37.2%) respondents had missed their required drugs at some point due to insufficient funds. Males who were able to afford their anti-diabetic medication were 96 (53.3%) compared to 128 (68.8%) females (P-value= 0.002). Those with no formal education had the highest proportion of respondents who could not easily afford anti-diabetic drugs (60.9%), those with tertiary education had the highest proportion of respondents who could afford their medication (77.5%), (P-value=< 0.001). Among those in the 61-70 years age group, 78 (66.1%) achieved glycaemic control compared to 34 (42.5%) of those above 70 years (P-value=< 0.001).
Conclusion: To improve affordability, subsidizing the cost of anti-diabetic medications and encouraging patients to enrol in the Health Insurance Scheme will be beneficial.
Effectiveness of Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Training on Emotional Expressiveness and Fear of Hypoglycemia in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Moghareh Abed Mojgan , Azadi Maryam , Dehghan Maryam , Ardeshirpey Javad
Published: December 2021

Objective: Diabetes is a common chronic disorder in which there is a high risk of physical complications and psychological problems such as hypoglycemia and inability to express emotions. Psychological interventions can be effective in this regard. The aim of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) training on emotional expressiveness and fear of hypoglycemia (FOH) in patients with type 2 diabetes visiting Yazd Diabetes Center.
Materials and Methods: This study was a quasi-experimental study with a pretest and posttest design. The statistical population was all patients with type 2 diabetes visiting Yazd Diabetes Center in 2020. Forty men and women were selected using purposeful sampling and were randomly allocated to case and control groups. The case group received 8 sessions of MBSR training, 2 hours each and the control group received no interventions. Emotional Expressiveness Questionnaire (EEQ) and the Hypoglycemia Fear Survey (HFS) were used to collect data.
Results: Results of ANCOVA showed that MBSR training significantly increases emotional expressiveness and its components (P-value< 0.0001) and decreases the fear of hypoglycemia (P-value< 0.0001) in patients with type 2 diabetes (P-value< 0.035).
Conclusion: Based on the results of the study, MBSR training could improve emotional expressiveness, prevent hypoglycemia and reduce the fear of it.
The Effectiveness of Logotherapy Training on Psychological Well-Being and Life Expectancy in Patients with Diabetes Type 2
Authors: Shabani Jafar , Mahmoudi Tabar Rafat
Published: December 2021

Objective: In daily life, logotherapy is one of the skills that can be taught to increase the levels of psychological well-being and hope. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of meaningful psychological skills in promoting psychological well-being and life expectancy in patients with type 2 diabetes in the city of Salas city of Kermanshah province.
Materials and Methods: The present study is an experiment with a pre-test-post-test design with a control group. The statistical population of the study was all patients with type 2 diabetes in Salas city of Kermanshah province. Thirty people were randomly divided into two groups of 15 experimental and controlled by sampling. After that, the experimental group was trained in logotherapy skills and meaning for 2 months in a total of 8 sessions of 90 minutes. After completing the training and after one month, the post-test was performed simultaneously and under the same conditions for both experimental and control groups. Data were analyzed by multivariate analysis of covariance (MANCOVA) with SPSS 18 software.
Results: Results of analysis of covariance on post-test means, there is a significant difference between logotherapy and control groups in psychological well-being and life expectancy variables (P-value< 0.001). The value of squares indicates that about 77% of the variance of the well-being score and about 81% of the variance of the life expectancy score is explained by the difference between the two methods.
Conclusion: Logotherapy training is effective on psychological well-being and life expectancy of diabetic patients.
Association of Different Genotypes of VEGF Gene with Changes in Aerobic Capacity Following Endurance Training in Obese Women
Authors: Shojaei Parviz , Ghahramani Mehran , Farsi Sirous
Published: December 2021

Objective: Obesity is a chronic disease characterized by an excessive mass of adipose tissue in the body. The present study aimed to investigate the relationship between different genotypes of VEGF gene and changes in aerobic capacity following aerobic exercise in obese women.
Materials and Methods: In this study, 23 inactive women aged 34 to 43 years with BMI 30 and 35 were purposefully selected and participated in eight weeks of aerobic exercise including 4 sessions per week and 30 minutes per session with an intensity of 55 to 75% of maximum heart rate. Before and after the training period, aerobic power (VO2max) was measured by the modified Bruce test. Saliva Sample was collected at 12 hours of fasting to measure VEGF genotypes. To compare aerobic capacity between different genotypes, since we had three genotypes GG, CG, and CC, one-way analysis of variance was used.
Results: Although the mean amount of aerobic power changes of GG genotype was somewhat higher after eight weeks of aerobic training than the other two genotypes, this difference was not significant. (P-value= 0.663, P-value= 0.873 and P-value= 0.173, respectively).
Conclusion: Eight weeks of aerobic training leads to increased aerobic capacity in obese women and increased VEGF plays a role, but there is not seemingly a difference between different VEGF genotypes for these changes. In any case, since this study was conducted for the first time, we need more studies to draw a more accurate conclusion.
Investigating the rs2237892 and rs231362 Polymorphisms of KCNQ1 Gene Associations with Type 2 Diabetes in an Iranian Population (Yazd Province)
Authors: Padidaran Mona , Mirzaei Masoud , Shamsi Farimah , Kalantar Seyed Mehdi , Sheikhha Mohammad Hasan
Published: December 2021

Objective: Type 2 diabetes (T2DM) is a worldwide prevalent metabolic disorder and the cause of many morbidities and mortalities. KCNQ1 gene encodes α-subunit of voltage-gated potassium (K+) channel which plays a role in insulin secretion in the pancreas, thus its variants may confer susceptibility to diabetes. Recognition of genetic variants involved in T2DM could help the early diagnosis and prevention of the disease. The main purpose of this paper was to investigate the frequencies of rs231362 and rs2237892 polymorphisms of KCNQ1 gene in T2DM patients and comparing these frequencies with normal subjects in an Iranian population from Yazd province, Iran.
Materials and Methods: This case-control study was conducted on 166 patients with T2DM and 168 normal subjects. After obtaining the informed consent, 5 ml peripheral blood was taken from the cases and controls and then DNA was extracted. The molecular investigation was done using 4-primer ARMS PCR and PCR-RFLP methods.
Results: Statistical analysis showed that GG genotype [OR= 3.9 (2.1-7.1), P-value< 0.001] and G allele [OR=2.85 (2.07-3.93), P-value< 0.001] frequency of rs231362 polymorphism was significantly different between case and control groups. While rs2237892 polymorphism did not show any differences between the two groups.
Conclusion: The result of this study showed that GG genotype and G allele of rs231362 polymorphism can be related to T2DM susceptibility in the population under study.
Non-Invasive Determination of Blood Glucose Levels by Optical Waveguide
Authors: Askarbioki Mohsen , Mortazavi Mojtaba , Amooee Abdolhamid , Kargar Saeid , Afkhami-Ardekani Mohammad , Shirmardi Seyed Pezhman , Ranjbar Jamalabadi Reihane
Published: December 2021

Objective: Today, there are various non-invasive techniques available for the determination of blood glucose levels. In this study, the level of blood glucose was determined by developing a new device using near-infrared (NIR) wavelength, glass optical waveguide, and the phenomenon of evanescent waves.
Materials and Methods: The body's interstitial fluid has made possible the development of new technology to measure the blood glucose. As a result of contacting the fingertip with the body of the borehole rod, where electromagnetic waves are reflected inside, evanescent waves penetrate from the borehole into the skin and are absorbed by the interstitial fluid. The electromagnetic wave rate absorption at the end of the borehole rod is investigated using a detection photodetector, and its relationship to the people's actual blood glucose level.
Following precise optimization and design of the glucose monitoring device, a statistical population of 100 participants with a maximum blood glucose concentration of 200 mg/dL was chosen. Before measurements, participants put their index finger for 30 seconds on the device.
Results: According to this experimental study, the values measured by the innovative device with Clark grid analysis were clinically acceptable in scales A and B. The Adjusted Coefficient of Determination of the data was estimated to be 0.9064.
Conclusion: For future investigations, researchers are recommended to work with a larger statistical population and use error reduction trends to improve the accuracy and expand the range of measurements.
First Trimester Potential Biochemical Predictive Tests for Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: A Systematic Review
Authors: Darvish Soodabeh , Rashidi Fakari Farzaneh , Haghdoost Simin
Published: December 2021

Objective: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is the most common metabolic complication during pregnancy. So, a large number of studies have evaluated the usefulness of different screening tests. The aim of this study was focused on the potential of only first-trimester screening used in the prediction of GDM.
Materials and Methods: In this systematic review, we searched PubMed, EMBASE, and Scopus (between 2010 and 2020) and also searched the reference lists of the relevant articles manually. After performing a thorough evaluation of the 242 potentially eligible papers, only 60 papers were selected in terms of the inclusion criteria. Search key terms were combining ‘Gestational diabetes’ or ‘GD’ “gestational diabetes mellitus” or” GDM” or pregnancy-induced diabetes’ with at least one of the following terms: “screening test”, “first-trimester”, “prediction”, “marker predictor”, “serum marker”.
Results: A total of 161954 pregnant women were evaluated in these reviewed studies. Moreover, many tests were assessed in the first trimester of pregnancy to predict GDM. This review showed that hs-CRP, FPG, TG, and LDL-C along with maternal BMI in the first trimester were related to the increased risk of developing GDM. Other tests were used in only one or two studies.
Conclusion: This review showed that hs-CRP, FPG, TG, and LDL-C along with maternal BMI in the first trimester were linked to an increased risk of developing GDM. It is recommended that further well-designed studies by considering the cost-effective advantages of these predictive tests, should be performed.
Effect of Black Grape Seed(Vitis Vinifera) Extract Consumption with Moderate-Intensity Aerobic Training on the Expression of MicroRNAs in Type 1 Diabetic Cardiac Tissue Rats
Authors: Shirani Bidabadi Maryam , Banaei Borojeni Jamshid , Keshavarz Saeed , Karimi Mohammad
Published: December 2021

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of consuming grape seed extract with moderate-intensity aerobic training on the expression of miR-126 and miR-29 in the cardiac tissue in type 1 diabetic male rats.
Materials and Methods: 40 rats with an initial weight range of 160-220 g were divided into five groups: Training + Extract, Training, Extract, Diabetic / Control, and Healthy / Control. Aerobic training program was moderate intensity and rats performed aerobic training for 60 minutes a day with the intensity 70 to 75% of maximum oxygen consumption (28 meters per minute). Grape seed extract was also administered by gavage at a dose of 40 mg/kg per day.
Results: Expression of both miRNAs in the three groups of training + extract, healthy training and control was significantly higher than the two groups of extract and diabetic control (P-value= 0.001). The difference between the three groups of training + extract, healthy training and control and also the difference between the two groups of extract and diabetic control were not significant (P-value> 0.05).
Conclusion: Aerobic training may be able to prevent cardiac disease caused by type 1 diabetes.
Mothering, Running, and the Renegotiation of Running Identity
Authors: Skinner Samantha
Published: December 2021

Qualitative interviews with six female runners shed light on the gender gap in women’s participation in shorter versus longer road races. The interviews reveal that “mother guilt” and “time constraints” play a significant role in the development of a running identity among women. While the running community promotes a discourse centered around a “disembodied” runner — someone totally and unconstrainedly dedicated to running — the participants in this study experienced conflicts between their roles as mothers and their identity as runners. The conflicts led them to engage in challenging the dominant discourse by actively negotiating a mothering and running identity. The findings suggest that women are redefining the boundaries around running and subsequently — running subculture itself.
Constructing the Boundaries of Retirement for Baby-Boomer Women: Like Turning Off the Tap, or Is It?
Authors: Van den Hoonaard Deborah K.
Published: December 2021

We are at a unique point in history when an unprecedented number of women are beginning to retire. Earlier work has suggested that women have few identity concerns in retirement because they had less attachment to the labor force. In contrast, women of the baby-boomer generation are the first cohorts to have participated in significant numbers in the paid work force since the institutionalization of retirement.

Using in-depth, semi-structured interviews, this article explores baby-boomer women’s process of leaving the paid work force and queries what retirement means to them. It focuses on the eroding boundary between work and retirement and issues of personal and social identity for the research participants. When women retire, they navigate a number of key boundaries between full-time, paid and other work and between their own transitions and the transitions of others in their lives. The women’s social identity reflects their experience of the intersection of retirement, aging, and gender. The themes that permeate the interviews include the loss of a primary identity without having a new positive identity to claim, being retired as a conversation stopper, and experiencing the invisibility that often comes with aging. Developing a unique identity and finding new meaning as a retiree is a challenging process for baby-boomer women as they negotiate “lingering identities” to avoid crossing the identity boundary from professional to retired. The article uses the words of the research participants to explore how they construct boundaries between work and retirement, the extent of their permeability, and the impact of women’s relationships and identity on those boundaries.