bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
University Professors' Perceptions of Online Learning during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Case Study
Authors:   the Department of English Language and Literature, University „„Ukshin Hoti‟‟ Prizren, 20000 Kosovo, Rakaj Dorinë
Published: January 2023

Higher education around the world has undergone significant transformation as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. This transition compelled Kosovar teachers at all levels to switch to an online mode right away. This study aims to investigate professors' perceptions of online learning during the COVID-19 pandemic. A qualitative descriptive approach was used in this study. A questionnaire was used to elicit the responses of 20 professors at University ‘‘Ukshin Hoti’’ Prizren, Kosovo. The questionnaire used a 5-point Likert scale. The data were processed using simple statistical analysis. The findings of this study revealed that, on average, professors had positive perceptions towards online classes during the pandemic. This study also revealed that most of professors experienced several technical problems during online classes. Although they experienced some technical problems, the study showed that most of professors enjoyed the online teaching experience. The outcomes of this study will help policymakers and educational institutions design practical and useful online teaching methods and techniques for teachers in the post COVID world.
Evaluation of Content Validity for Fundamentals of Computer Science Subject
Authors:   the Faculty of Information Science and Technology, National University of Malaysia, Malaysia, Rahman Maisarah Abdul , Zakaria Mohamad Shanudin , Din Rosseni , Daud Noorafizah
Published: January 2023

Rapid changes in ongoing Information Technology (IT) education demand improvement in the existing learning modules. This is significantly important for Fundamentals of Computer Science (or Asas Sains Komputer (ASK)), a subject taught in secondary school level to provide basic knowledge and understandings of Computer Science at earlier stage of learning. Realizing its importance, a study was conducted to evaluate design learning module of ASK to increase students interest in Algorithms. Done from teachers perspectives, the study used a qualitative approach by conducting interviews with five experts from educational background in order to validate the design learning module. The results of the study based on the scores and comments given by the experts regarding ASK design learning module are positive. The feedbacks from the research contribute in development of ASK module thus improving students interest and understandings during the learning process. This also helps in enhancing the quality of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education as stated in the Malaysia Education Blueprint 2013-2025.
An Integrative Review: Application of Digital Learning Media to Developing Learning Styles Preference
Authors:   Faculty of Teacher Training and Education University of Lampung, Indonesia, Nurmalisa Yunisca , Sunyono Sunyono , Yulianti Dwi , Sinaga Risma Margaretha
Published: January 2023

The future of online learning or cybergogy known by several terms, such as blended learning, flipped classroom, or hybrid is something that cannot be avoided. This compelling situation is not due to the COVID-19 pandemic alone but has become a necessity for every student from school to higher education. This article aims to analyze and explain understanding in education related to the concept of "digital media", and all student responses including "learning styles", and related concepts, by reviewing, and synthesizing the literature using in an integrative review. A total of 154 qualitative and quantitative articles published between 2000 and 2020 were reviewed. Based on the inclusion analysis, 25 articles reveal things related to "digital media" and the behavior of students' "learning style" responses and what digital learning media should be. Concerning what is embedded in digital media that can result in different reactions from one another, digital learning media should be made by considering the behavioral reactions of students' "learning style" responses. Applying various digital media such as online platforms or applications in learning should directly affect different learning styles in education. Learning variations should also be offered when the learning media is created and used.
Students‘ Motivation and Effective Use of Self-regulated Learning on Learning Management System Moodle Environment in Higher Learning Institution in Nigeria
Authors:   Borno State University, Maiduguri-Nigeria, Mustapha Alhaji Modu , Zakaria egat Aman Zahiri Megat , Yahaya Noraffandy , Abuhassna Hassan , Mamman Babakura , Isa Alhaji Modu , Kolo Muhammad Alkali
Published: January 2023

This study aims to apply the Motivated Strategies for Learning Questionnaire (MSLQ) established by Pintrich to determine the level of students' motivation and perception and expose them to a Moodle to test the successful use of Self-Regulated Learning on the Learning Management System Moodle Environment. Ninety-six undergraduates (48 in the experimental and 48 in the control group) took part in this quasi-experimental study. The instrument (MSLQ) was tested using Cronbach's Alpha with a reliability coefficient of 0.8 (80%). The data gathered through the MSLQ were analyzed using descriptive statistics. While the data through the achievement test were analyzed using an independent sample t-test. The findings revealed that utilizing Moodle as a learning management system enhances undergraduates' ability to learn independently and motivates them to work hard. It also said that the student's perception of the Learning Management System was positive.
Jewish Mystical Insights for Christian Anthropologists
Authors: Pittle Kevin D.
Published: February 2023

The Jewish mystical tradition of Kabbalah, as reflected in ethnohistoric documents underwriting the beliefs and practices of contemporary neo-kabbalists, practitioners of shamanic Judaism, Jewitchery, and other para-Judaic spiritualities (including Hermetic Qabalah and Christian Cabala) illustrate a cosmological theory of “kabbalistic perspectivism” analogous to the Amazonian perspectivism reported by Eduardo Viveiros de Castro (1998). Consideration of kabbalistic perspectivism provides Messianic Jewish, gentile Christian, and other religiously committed anthropologists opportunity for practicing comparative theology. It also may serve as a model for developing “methodological possibilianism,” an ontologically-oriented complement to the epistemological model of critical realism popularized by Christian anthropologists Paul Hiebert and Charles Kraft.
The Effect of Hydroalcoholic Extract of Senna (Cassia Angustifolia Vahl.) on Lipid Profiles in Hyperlipidemic Rats
Authors: Karajibani Mansour , Montazerifar Farzaneh , Eslahi Hadi , Miri Mahdiyyeh , Naghizadeh Mehrdad , Yarmand Sazin
Published: January 2023

Background: Abnormality in metabolism of lipids and hyperlipidemia is a risk factor for atherosclerosis which is the major cause of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Several herbal drugs are used for the treatment of dyslipidemia. The present study investigates the effects of hydroalcoholic extracts of Senna extract on serum lipid profile among hyperlipidemic rats. Methods: Forty eight male Wistar rats were randomly divided into 6 groups of 8 animals, including group 1) normal pellet diet (control), group 2) high fat diet (HFD), group, 3) HFD with 100 mg/kg Senna extract treatment, group 4) HFD with 200 mg/kg Senna extract treatment, group 5) 100 mg/kg pure Senna extract, and group 6) 200 mg/kg pure Senna extract. All the dietary regimens and Senna extract treatments were continued for 30 days. At the end of the experiment, blood samples collected from heart of rats and the lipid profile levels were measured. Results: The results indicated that short-term treatment by hydroalcoholic of Senna extract produced a significant reduction in the level of cholesterol, triglyceride, and LDL-C (P < 0.05), as well as an increase in HDL-C. The body weight in the HFD group was significantly higher than the other groups (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Prescription of hydroalcoholic extracts of Senna is effective in the treatment of hyperlipidemia, and can inhibit the weight gain induced by HFD in rats. Some of these effects could be attributed to antioxidants activities, biological and pharmaceutical properties and other protective properties of the Senna extract requiring further investigations.
Association between Body Mass Index, Abdominal Obesity, and Body Size with Hip and Femoral Fractures in the Elderly
Authors: Montazerifar Farzaneh , Taghvaeefar Rasul , Karajibani Mansour , Izad Panahi Bahnaz
Published: January 2023

Background: The risk of bone fractures, particularly hip fractures is increasing in the elderly. One of the known factors for predicting fractures is body mass index (BMI) and abdominal obesity. Thus, this study aimed to determine the association between obesity (general and abdominal) with femoral and hip fractures according to gender and age. Methods: In this descriptive cross-sectional study, 100 patients with femoral or hip fractures admitted to the orthopedic ward of Khatam Al-Anbia Hospital in Zahedan were selected between March 2018 and May 2019.  Waist circumference (WC), wrist circumference, BMI, and body size were measured. A P-value of <0.05 was considered as statistical significant. All the analyses were performed by SPSS software version 21. Results: The highest rate of hip fracture was observed in people aged over 70 years (61.9%, P < 0.01). The highest rate of hip and femoral fractures were observed in individuals with BMI < 23 kg/m2 (P < 0.001) and taller people (>167 cm) (P < 0.0001). The risk of fractures decreased with increasing WC (P < 0.01). Approximately half of those with hip fractures (52.4%) and femoral fractures (51.9%) had small size. Conclusion: On the basis of our findings, taller height, lower BMI and smaller body size have been suggested as potential contributions to the risk of femoral and hip fractures. It is suggested that abdominal fat may be protective against the risk of hip and femoral fractures at older ages, which requires further research.
The Association between Nutrition Style through the First 2 Years of Life, Maternal and Childhood Indicators with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus in Children: A Case-Control Study
Authors: Zamani Marzieh , Khoubfekr Hekmatollah , Namdar Azam , Rezaei Samira , Rahmanian Vahid
Published: January 2023

Background: Nutrition and dietary habits is one of the determinant factor on glycemic control of diabetes mellitus. This study aims to investigate the association between type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) and diet in the first two years of life as well as a select group of demographic variables. Methods: This case-control study was conducted on 76 children with T1DM and 209 non-diabetic children selected through convenience sampling from the population of people visiting the community health centers of the city of Jahrom, Iran. The required data were collected by a questionnaire of diet and demographic information completed by the mothers of the children. The data were analyzed using logistic regression and adjusted odds ratio. Results: Finally, the results of multiple backward logistic regression showed that the studied factors had a significant association with T1DM (P < 0.05), including body mass index (BMI) less than 18 kg/m2 for mothers before pregnancy (OR: 4.4, 95% CI: 1.61 to 11.97), mothers without a history of diabetes (OR: 0.02, 95% CI: 0.001 to 0.60), mother’s weight before pregnancy (OR: 0.88, 95% CI: 0.84 to 0.91), mother’s excess weight during pregnancy (OR: 0.83, 95% CI: 0.75 to 0.93), exclusive breastfeeding for more than six months (OR: 0.19, 95% CI: 0.03 to 0.96), low weight gain in the first two years of life (OR: 6.98, 95% CI: 2.16 to 22.5), and the breastfeeding less than 12 months  (OR: 10.52, 95% CI: 1.62 to 66.64). Conclusion: BMI less than 18 kg/m2 for mothers before pregnancy, low weight gain in the first two years of life, and breastfeeding less than 12 months increased the risk of developing T1DM in children.
Prevalence and Predictors of Food Insecurity among Public and Private University Lecturers: A Cross Sectional Study in Nangarhar, Afghanistan
Authors: Haq Banuree Sayed Attaul , Pakteen Rahman Shah , Rahimi Najibullah , Banuree Sayed Ziaulhaq , Rahmani Mohammad Malyar
Published: January 2023

Background: Food security (FS) is a substantial right of human beings and should be addressed in all groups of the society. This study aims to investigate the prevalence and predictors of food insecurity (FI) among university lecturers in Nangarhar province. Methods: 287 university lecturers were selected from public and private universities through stratified random sampling technique. FS was assessed over the past 30 days and through the 10-item short US FS survey module. Data were collected by a well-structured questionnaire in face to face interviews. Results: Results revealed that 55.05% of university lecturers suffered from FI with a higher prevalence among private university lecturers (P = 0.001). Moreover, FI was significantly associated with ethnicity (P = 0.04), education level (P = 0.01), academic position (P = 0.001), monthly income (P = 0.01), and having another job besides being a lecturer (P = 0.001). Furthermore, lecturers between 36-40 year (OR = 0.043, CI = 0.006-0.292, P = 0.001) with a bachelor's degree (OR = 0.130, CI = 0.033-0.518, P = 0.004) had the lowest odds, and those with senior teaching assistant position (OR = 9.350, CI = 3.371-25.932, P < 0.001), and monthly income of less than 350 US dollar (OR = 162.70, CI = 9.315-2841.92, P < 0.001), had greater odds of FI. Conclusion: FI is prevalent among university lecturers. Therefore, prompt interventions should be conducted by relevant departments to minimize the risk of FI among the lecturers.
Household Food Security and Demographic Factors in Children and Their Parents
Authors: Javadi Maryam , Pakbin Babak , Ziaeeha Masomeh , Barikani Ameneh , Manuel Brück Wolfram
Published: January 2023

Background: Food insecurity and hunger contribute to physical, psychological, and social effects. The relationship between food insecurity and negative consequences on health has been confirmed in multiple studies. The present study aims to identify food security and its association with some demographic factors in children and their parents. Methods: In this descriptive-analytical study, 1688 children aged 3-6 years were selected using cluster random sampling in 15 health centers in Qazvin, Iran. Results: The results showed that 855 participants (50.7%) had food security, while 552 (32.7%) had food insecurity without hunger, 242 (14.4%) had food insecurity with slight hunger, and 37 (2.2%) had food insecurity with severe hunger. A significant correlation was observed between parental education level and food security (P < 0.001). Also, there was a significant correlation between the children’s body mass index (BMI) and food security (P < 0.005). No significant difference was observed between BMI, mother weight before delivery, and children’s sleeping and wake-up time in both groups. However, the birth rank (P < 0.01) and number of family (P < 0.02) in the secured group was significantly higher. The age of complementary feeding in the secured group was significantly higher (P < 0.06). Conclusion: Given that there is an association between birth weight, breastfeeding, parents’ education, and occupation with food security, it seems that pregnancy status and breastfeeding should be much more studied.
The Association between Dietary Inflammatory and Obesity Indices in University Students in Tehran
Authors: Khamoush Cheshm Narges , Ataie-Jafari Asal , Eghtesadi Shahryar , Nikravan Aniseh , Shivappa Nitin , Hebert James R.
Published: January 2023

Background: Obesity as a major cause of low-grade chronic inflammation is a global public health issue. Inflammation arising from obesity affects organs, such as kidney and liver, and is associated with chronic diseases. The present study aims to investigate the association between the dietary inflammatory index (DII) and obesity indices in university students. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 361 college students selected using a two-stage cluster random sampling. The inclusion criteria were healthy girls and boys in the 18-35 years age group, and the exclusion criteria included the presence of chronic diseases, such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, taking supplements to weight loss or weight gain, and using alcohol and tobacco. DII scores were calculated from dietary data collected using a semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). Anthropometric measurements were taken, and body composition was analyzed by bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA). Results: The mean age of the students was 21.94 ± 4.04 years, 53.2% were female, and the mean DII was 1.26 ± 1.08. Among the participants, 36.8% were overweight and obese and 9.1% suffered from abdominal obesity. The DII score was not associated with body weight, body mass index (BMI), body fat, waist circumference or visceral fat (both unadjusted and after adjustment for covariates). Conclusion: The present study showed no association between the DII and obesity indices. Given the proven effects of both the DII and obesity on health indicators, it would be a good strategy to conduct studies with prospective designs to determine the exact effects of DII on obesity indicators.
Prevalence of Malnutrition among Hospitalized Elderly Patients in Hospitals Affiliated to Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
Authors: Mirbazegh Seyedeh Fatemeh , Hadavi Shima , Alipour Sadaf , Abbasi Nasrin , Vaskooi-Eshkevari Khorshid , Soltani-Kermanshahi Mojtaba , Ebrahimpour-Koujan Soraiya , Sadeghian Mehdi
Published: January 2023

Background: Following the improvement in health status and life expectancy in developing countries, the elderly population is increasing. Elderly malnutrition is common across healthcare services and is associated with high costs and adverse outcomes. This study assesses the prevalence of malnutrition among elderly patients in the selected hospitals affiliated to Tehran University of Medical Sciences. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on elderly patients aged 65 years or older in 6 selected hospitals between June and September 2015. Using convenience sampling method, a total of 451 patients were included. Nutritional status was assessed using the Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA) tool. Results: The mean age of the patients was 71.49 ± 6.60 year and 55.5% were female. The prevalence of malnutrition was 27.3%. A total of 30.8% were at risk of malnutrition, and 41.9% had a normal nutritional status. There were significant associations between nutritional status and chronic diseases, body mass index (BMI), mobility, psychological condition, mid-arm circumference (MAC), calf circumference, and more than three prescription drugs per day (P < 0.001). Conclusion: A satisfactory nutritional status was found among most hospitalized elderly. Future studies with follow-up during and after hospitalization are required.
The Relationship between Insulin Resistance and Micronutrient Intake in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Subgroups
Authors: Kamali Zahra , Ziaei Saeide , Kazemnejad Anoshirvan , Movahedinejad Maryam
Published: January 2023

Background: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is with oxidative stress in women of reproductive age. Oxidative stress is an important factor in the development of insulin resistance. Some micronutrients are also linked to oxidative stress. The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between insulin resistance and micronutrient intake in PCOS subgroups. Methods: This case-control study was performed on 151 PCOS. They were divided into four groups according to the Rotterdam diagnostic criteria: D = 37, C = 40, B = 33, A = 41 and 31 women were also in the control group and did not have this syndrome. Micronutrient food intake was assessed with a 168-item FFQ feed frequency questionnaire. Insulin resistance was diagnosed with HOMA-IR index (Cut off> 2.5). The data were analyzed with SPSS 22 using Kruskal Wallis (KW), Spearman, and Chi-square tests. Results: The mean age of participants was 28.53 years. There was a significant relationship between the HOMA-IR and some dietary components (selenium depletion in group A, zinc depletion, vitamin D, and vitamin E in group D, and vitamin D and vitamin E depletion in control group) (P < 0.05). There was no relationship between subgroups B and C. Conclusion: Due to the significant relationship between insulin resistance indices, increasing the dietary intake of zinc, selenium, vitamin D, and vitamin E in women with PCOS, as well as increasing the dietary intake of these micronutrients in improving the physical health and fertility parameters of these people is recommended.
Physicochemical Properties, Antioxidative and Antibacterial Activities of the Persian Medicine-Based Maolasal Honey: An Experimental Study
Authors: Zakerian Mohsen , Roudi Fatemeh , Ramezani Mahnaz , Salari Roshanak , Refahi Behzad , Ramezani Marjan , Hosseini Seyed Ruhollah
Published: January 2023

Background: Maolasal is a honey-induced product which may lead to several beneficial effects from the Persian Medicine (PM) point of view. Heating process as a major step of Maolasal preparation may decrease the honey quality and deteriorate thermal treatment indicators of honey. Methods: This study was conducted on four honey samples (from different floral sources). Maolasal preparation process was done according to one of the most important PM references “Gharabadin Kabir”. Thermal treatment indices, antibacterial and antioxidative activities of products were measured. Results: The 5-Hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) concentrations of PM-based Maolasal samples of polyfloral, monofloral, and sugar honey were higher than 40 mg/kg; while PM-based Maolasal sample of monofloral honey had acceptable HMF concentration (38.9 mg/kg). Proline content of all samples decreased thorough Maolasal preparation and simple heating processes in all samples and these reductions were greater in monofloral honey and sugar honey Maolasal samples.  Maolasal preparation processes decreased diastase activity of all samples. Although Maolasal preparation process led to sucrose content reduction in the three Maolasal samples, sucrose content of Maolasal sample of monofloral honey was higher than its raw sample. Maolasal preparation process increased total phenolic content of all samples. Finally, Maolasal preparation process led to an increase in antibacterial and antioxidant activities of all the samples. Conclusion: Maolasal samples reduced diastasis activity and proline content and increased HMF concentration. Maolasal preparation process may lead to an increase in antibacterial and antioxidative activities of honey which may be helpful for special preventive/therapeutic medicinal objectives.
Nitrite and Nitrate Residue in Non-Heat Treated Meat Products Marketed in East Azerbaijan Province
Authors: Hejazy Marzie , Norouzi Roghayeh , Javid Farzin
Published: January 2023

Background:  Nitrite and nitrate salts are used as preservatives in meat products to prevent the growth of pathogen organisms such as Clostridium botulinum. Nitrogen salts additives create the desired color in meat products. However, the use of these salts accelerates nitrosamine production and increases the risk of carcinogenesis. Hence, nitrate and nitrite consumption rate should be according to the approved standards. This analytical study is designed to determine nitrate and nitrite residue of non-heat-treated meat products including hamburger and kebab in East Azerbaijan Province, Iran during 2015-2020. Methods: 120 samples of non-heat-treated meat products from different brands were randomly collected. They consisted of 60 products manufactured in East Azerbaijan province and 60 products imported from other provinces.  Nitrate and Nitrite residues in non-heat-treated meat products including hamburger and kebab were determined by spectrophotometric method. Results: Results showed that the residue levels of nitrate and nitrite content regarding non-heat- treated meat products were less than maximum residual limits (MRLs) of national standards. The study also indicated that frozen non-heated meat products did not have any nitrogenous additive. Conclusion: The results of this research revealed that the frozen non-heat treated meat products including hamburger and kebab, produced or consumed in East Azerbaijan province during 2015-2020 did not have nitrate and nitrite additives. Continuous monitoring to ensure the compliance of meat products with the standards is necessary.
The Association between Saliva and Serum Vitamin D with Knee Osteoarthritis
Authors: Mirzaii-Dizgah Mohammad-Reza , Mirzaii-Dizgah Mohammad-Hossein , Mirzaii-Dizgah Iraj , Koshkzari Roghayeh
Published: January 2023

Background: The incidence of osteoarthritis (OA) is high in patients suffering from 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 (25(OH)D) deficiency. The goal of this study is to examine the association between saliva and serum 25(OH)D and knee OA. Methods: Serum and saliva 25(OH)D levels of 30 patients with knee OA and 30 matched healthy people in a control group were measured by ELISA. Knee pain was assessed by Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC). Data were analyzed through student’s t-test, Pearson correlation test and receiver operating characteristic (ROC). Results: The mean serum and saliva 25(OH)D levels were lower in knee OA group than the healthy group. WOMAC negatively correlated with serum (r = -0.37; P = 0.02) and with unstimulated (r = -0.30; P = 0.04) saliva 25(OH)D. The unstimulated saliva 25(OH)D cutoff value was 27.8 pg/m1 regarding the diagnosis of knee OA. Conclusion: Serum 25(OH)D levels were positively associated with saliva 25(OH)D, and 25(OH)D level in saliva, as in serum, was low in knee OA.
Prevalence and Characteristics of Yersinia Enterocolitica and Yersinia Pseudotuberculosis from Raw Milk Supplied in Tehran
Authors: Sharifi Yazdi Sara , Mobasseri Behzad , Torabi Bonab Parisa , Sharifi Yazdi Sina , Mirbagheri Zohre , Soltan Dallal Mohammad Mehdi
Published: January 2023

Background: Foodborne diseases are caused by eating contaminated food. Yersinia species are among the bacteria involved in food contamination, such as meat, poultry, vegetables, and milk. This study aims to investigate the prevalence and characteristics of Yersinia enterocolitica and Yersinia pseudotuberculosis from raw milk in Tehran. Methods: In this study, 360 samples of raw milk were collected from farms around Tehran and examined according to the FDA method. Then, 25 ml of milk samples were added to 225 ml of Peptone Sorbitol Bile Broth and kept for 10 days at 4 °C for enrichment. After 10 days, 0.5 ml of the sample was added to 0.5 ml of 0.72% KOH solution and 0.54% NaCl. After 30 sec, it was cultured in the selected Cefsulodin-Irgasan-Novobiocin agar (CINagar) medium to remove the normal flora. The plates were stored for 48 h at 28 °C. The suspected Bull's eye colonies were purified and phenotyping tests were carried out on the selected colony. The 20 E API kits were used for confirming identification. Results: From 360 raw milk samples, 4 Yersinia isolates (1.1%) including one Y. pseudotuberculosis (0.27%) and three Y. enterocolitica (0.83%) were isolated. In addition to Yersinia, other bacteria such as Klebsiella, Serratia, Citrobacter, and Providencia were isolated from milk samples. Conclusion: The findings showed that clean tap water and healthy cattle in livestock can be effective in preventing Yersinia contamination. Lack of personal and environmental hygiene could cause food contamination by Yersinia and other intestinal bacteria leading to gastrointestinal infections.
Effects of Selenium Supplementation on Incidence and Severity of Preeclampsia: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Pilot Trial
Authors: Mohsenpour Fatemeh , Radnia Nahid , Ahmadi Maryam , Mohsenpour Ziba , Jamali Maryam , Mohsenpour Mohammad Ali
Published: January 2023

Background: Preeclampsia is a serious hypertensive condition of pregnancy associated with high maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. In this study, the effect of selenium supplementation on the incidence and severity of preeclampsia in pregnant women was evaluated. Methods: The present double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel study was registered at Fatemieh Hospital of Hamadan, Iran. One hundred eighty women in the first trimesters of pregnancy were assigned to either selenium (SG, n = 90) or placebo (PG, n = 90) groups. SG and PG received 100 μg of selenium supplement or placebo per day, respectively. Results: In this study, no significant difference was observed between two groups in terms of age, body mass index, and serum selenium before the intervention (P > 0.05). The incidence of preeclampsia in the SG and PG was 9 and 5, respectively (P = 0.28). There was no statistically significant difference between sex and Apgar score of neonates in the two groups (P = 0.73). The mean birth weight, systolic and diastolic blood pressure in the SG was significantly higher than PG (P = 0.003, 0.01, and 0.007, respectively). The mean gestational age in the SG was insignificantly lower than the PG (P = 0.41). After the study, preeclampsia incidence was not significant between the groups (P = 0.28). Conclusion: The administration of 100 μg of selenium supplementation in pregnant women, had no effect on decreasing preeclampsia, but it may reduce the severity of preeclampsia.
Development and Validation of a Dish-Based Iranian Food Frequency Questionnaire: A Protocol Study
Authors: Ayoubi Samaneh Sadat , Yaghoubi Zahra , Amini Maryam , Philippou Elena , Nematy Mohsen , Esmaily Habibollah , Shadmand Foumani Moghadam Mohammad Reza , Norouzy Abdolreza
Published: January 2023

Background: The relation between long-term dietary intake and diseases is well known. There are several methods to determine long-term dietary intake. The food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) is used in studies to assess habitual dietary intake over a long term period. Dietary intake varies according to cultural differences, so an FFQ must be designed and validated for the target population. This protocol study aims to explain the development and validation of a semi-quantitative FFQ for the Iranian population that includes mixed dishes and single food items. Methods: The initial list of food items were extracted from interviews and expert opinion. An expert panel of ten nutritionists calculated the content validity ratio (CVR) and content validity index (CVI) of food items to finalize the FFQ. One hundred twenty eligible participants were included in the study. They completed the FFQ two times, with a ten month interval. They recorded their food intake for three days in the 2nd and 10th months of the study. In the 4th and 10th months, serum retinol and alpha-tocopherol, and 24-hour urinary potassium and nitrogen were measured. Result: Covering typical Iranian mixed dishes is the main advantage of this study. Given that the questionnaire is valid and reproducible, it can be used in epidemiologic studies. Conclusion: The current study developed a dish-based Iranian FFQ based on mixed food.
Review of Studies on Palm-Oil Consumption in Relation to Risk of Cardiovascular Diseases
Authors: Abdulwaliyu Ibrahim , Okoduwa Stanley I.R. , Sangodare Rose , Arekemase Shefiat O. , Muhammad Aliyu
Published: January 2023

Background: A balanced-diet containing edible-oil has been advocated to have more of unsaturated fatty acid. The saturated nature of palm-oil (PO) has led to the recommendation that its consumption should be limited to avoid the risk of cardiovascular diseases (CVD). The purpose of this study was to investigate the claims and counterclaims of PO consumption and the risk of CVD from biochemical perspective. Methods: Relevant published peer-review articles on PO consumption associated with risk of CVD were sorted from Google Scholar, Scopus, Medline, and PubMed databases. Keywords, such as “palm-oil, cardiovascular diseases, and cholesterol” were used for the search. Results: Apparent in animal studies, 52.17% support the claim that PO consumption is associated with CVD, and has been attributed to its saturated nature. According to the reports, PO consumption by virtue of its saturated nature-elicited hypercholesterolaemia, which may result to CVD. Furthermore, PO consumption may instigate fatty liver, cause narrowing blood vessels and thickening aorta of the heart, and consequently non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, a serious condition that may lead to severe cirrhosis, thereby increase CVD risk. On the other hand, 47.83% refute such claims that PO consumption is not associated with CVD risk. Based on human studies, 45.45% and 54.55% support and refute, respectively the claims that PO is associated with CVD. Conclusion: PO consumption has shown to be associated with hypercholesterolaemia, elevated low density lipoprotein cholesterol, hence, could instigate CVD, even though no study convincingly establishes any relationship between PO consumption and the risk of CVD. Furthermore, consumption of repeatedly heated PO (deep-frying) may instigate oxidative stress, and consequently CVD.
Investigating the Quality of Life and Its Correlation with Receiving Online Health Services in the Middle-Aged People of Kashan
Authors: Izadi-Avanji Fatemeh Sadat , Kafaei-Atrian Mahboobeh , Hashemi-Demne Jalal
Published: January 2023

Background: Quality of life refers to people's understanding of their position in terms of culture, value system in which they live, goals, expectations, standards and priorities. The use of online health services can affect the improvement of people's understanding of health. The purpose of this study was to determine the quality-of-life and its correlation with receiving online health services among middle-aged people in Kashan in 2019.
Methods: This is a cross-sectional study that was conducted on middle-aged people in health centers. The samples were 293 people who were randomly selected. Data collection was done with questionnaires on the ability to use health services and quality-of-life. Data analysis was done with Chi-square, Fisher's Exact tests, Independent Samples T-test, ANOVA, Pearson's correlation coefficient and linear regression tests.
Results: The average age of 293 participants was 47.5 ± 6.99 with a range of 40-60 years. The average work experience was 23.11 ± 8.01 and the average use of the internet per week was 26.2 ± 20.29 hours. The quality-of-life of 70.3 percent of the participants was average. Linear regression analysis showed that the ability to use services on the health line was predictive (β = 0.363 and p value < 0.001) and explained 14% of the variance of quality of life (p value < 0.001).
Conclusion: The ability to use online health services does affect the quality of life of middle-aged people. Therefore, in order to improve the quality of life of middle-aged people in the society, necessary interventions are recommended to increase the use of online health services.
Single Umbilical Artery and Associated Fetal and Maternal Characteristics: A Cross Sectional Study
Authors: Hematian Mohammad Nasir , Shabani Azadeh , Ghalandarpoor-Attar Seyedeh Noushin , Hantoshzadeh Sedegheh , Ghalandarpoor-Attar Seyedeh Mojgan
Published: January 2023

Background: Single umbilical artery is the most common developmental malformation of the umbilical cord. Its prevalence increases by multiple pregnancy, velamentous cord insertion, older maternal age, cigarrete smoking, maternal diabetes, hypertension or epilepsy. Since ethnic and genetic factors have been contributed to single umbilical artery occurrence and there is no similar study in Iran, we decided to evaluate fetuses with single umbilical artery diagnosis and describe maternal and fetal characteristics.
Methods: This was a retrospective cross sectional study conducted on pregnant women having fetuses diagnosed with single umbilical artery at gestational age of 18 to 24 weeks referring to the perinatologist during 2019-2022. Data was analyzed by appropriate analytic tests were applied.
Results: During study period, 67 fetuses had been diagnosed with single umbilical artery. Mean values of maternal age, gestational age, body mass index were 32.29 ± 5.83 years, 18.89 ± 1.57 weeks, and 26.46 ± 4.54 kg/m2, respectively. 59.7% of fetuses were male and 40.3% were female. 33 cases (49.2%) had no other associated malformations and choroidal cysts and intra-cardiac echogenic focies were the most prevalent abnormalities. As well, in 16 cases more than one malformation were detected. In cases with isolated single umbilical artery, no intrauterine growth retardation was evident.
Conclusion: In line with previous studies, cardiac, gastrointestinal and renal malformation are the most common associated abnormalities seen in single umbilical artery malformation and in the presence of multiple anomalies intrauterine growth retardation is expected.
The Relationship between Nursing Professional Ethics from the Perspective of Nurses and Quality of Nursing Care from the Perspective of Patients in Hamadan University of Medical Sciences
Authors: Gholami Amir Hossein , Ahmadi Forozan , Soltanian Alireza , Khalili Arash
Published: January 2023

Background: Professional ethics is an important component in providing good quality nursing care and for performance. Only those who are in the position to receive these services can measure professional ethics and quality of care indicators.
Methods: This descriptive-correlational study was performed with the participation of 287 nurses and 287 hospitalized patients in 5 teaching hospitals of Hamedan in 2021. Data were collected using demographic information questionnaires, nursing professional ethics and quality of care questionnaire. Data were analyzed by using descriptive and inferential statistics.
Results: The results showed that the majority of nurses (78.8%) rated their performance with good professional ethics and the mean of the quality of care of the patients was 143.2 ± 13.51. Also, the highest quality of nursing care from patients' point of view was in the psychosocial field and the lowest quality of nursing care was in the communicative domain, and there was no significant relationship between adherence to professional ethics and quality of nursing care delivery (p value = 0.988).
Conclusion: According to the findings of the study on the lack of relationship between professional ethics and quality of nursing care from the point of view of nurses and patients, therefore it seems necessary to take measures to develop educational programs regarding the importance of ethical compliance by nurses and awareness of the components of quality care for patients.
Comparative Study of Abnormal Uterine Bleeding with History of Cesarean Section and Vaginal Delivery in Women Referring to Gynecology Clinic of Ali-Ebn-Abitaleb Hospital in Zahedan
Authors: Zargar Mansoureh , Fourghani Forogh , Sarhadi Saeideh
Published: January 2023

Background: The aim of this study was to compare the abnormal uterine bleeding with a history of cesarean section and normal delivery in women referred to the gynecology and obstetrics clinic of Ali Ibn Abitaleb Hospital in Zahedan, Iran in 2020-21.
Methods: Patients were divided into two groups of 100 patients. For each patient, information including demographic characteristics and evaluation of the causes of abnormal uterine bleeding in patients based on paraclinical procedures, BMI calculation, vaginitis and Pelvic inflammatory disorder (PID) were obtained.
Results: The mean age of patients in the normal delivery group was 30.14 ± 6.26 years and in the cesarean section patients was 29.13 ± 6.70 years. There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups in terms of age. There was a statistically significant difference between the two groups in terms of type between menorrhagia (p value = 0.047) and in comparison between the two groups in terms of bleeding causes, anatomical cause (p value = 0.02) and neoplasia (p value = 0.04).
Conclusion: The present findings showed that the incidence of menorrhagia was higher in cesarean delivery and the incidence of abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB) in cesarean delivery may occur after delivery with a shorter time interval than the delivery time. The most important cause of abnormal bleeding in both groups was infection, but with regards to anatomical causes, the most important cause was fibroids in both groups.
Exosomes and Their Impact on Chronic Myeloid Leukemia; from Its Progression to the Treatment
Authors: Roshandel Elham , Ghaffari-Nazari Haniyeh , Dehghani Ghorbi Mahmoud , Javani Fatemeh , Salimi Maryam , Sankanian Ghazaleh , Soleimani Masoud
Published: January 2023

Background: Occasionally the disease severity of CML, nay progress at an accelerated rate and the blast phase could be associated with a worse prognosis and a higher mortality rate. Exosomes are nanosized lipid vesicles with the ability to regulate various intra and extracellular mechanisms through transferring their content including proteins, RNAs, miRNAs and DNAs to the tumor microenvironment.
Methods: In this study, we aimed to review exosomes structure and biogenesis as well as different exosome sources like CML cells, mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs), and immune cells. Moreover, the effects of secreted exosomes on CML disease such as their impact on bone marrow niche, drug resistance, leukemic cells growth and CML disease progression is briefly described here.
Results: Since exosomes play extensive roles in the regulation of niche altered by cancer, they can be very valuable in the clinic and in investigating the causes of resistance to treatment. Therefore, one of the therapeutic strategies that can be useful in the recovery process of this group of relapsed patients are exosomes.
Conclusion: In order to prevent disease advancement to accelerated and blast phases, further investigations and clinical trials are required to identify the exact function of exosomes. Therefore, exploring the content of these exosomes and optimizing their application for disease treatment, is needed to prevent disease progression and drug resistance.
Review of Genetic Changes and Factors Causing Cardiac Arrhythmias
Authors: Khatami Mehri , Heidari Mohammad Mehdi , Mazrouei Bahareh , Aflaki Rojin
Published: January 2023

Introduction: Cardiovascular diseases are currently the leading cause of death in the world. Arrhythmias are one of the most common cardiovascular diseases. In arrhythmia, the heartbeat becomes slow, fast, or irregular, which affects the efficiency of the heart, and in this case, the heart may not have enough ability to pump blood. Cardiac arrhythmias are the leading causes of sudden cardiac death in young people, affecting even patients with anatomically normal hearts. Arrhythmia syndromes are ion channel diseases that lead to abnormal electrical properties of the heart. This article examined the genetic causes affecting all types of cardiac arrhythmias. A detailed search was performed on Google Scholar and PubMed to identify research articles related to arrhythmia genetics. All duplicate articles based on the title and articles published before the year 2000 were removed during the screening. Finally, after several rounds of content review of the articles, 50 research articles were selected for this study.
Conclusion: It has been found that mutations cause arrhythmias in nuclear genes encoding membrane channels in heart muscle cells. However, the causes of some cases of arrhythmia are unclear and the possibility of multifactorial of these cardiac disorders is raised. The importance of this type of review article, while revealing the relationship between gene loci and types of arrhythmogenic syndromes, is to provide a molecular basis that can provide researchers with new diagnostic methods in addition to echocardiogram.
Frequency of Periapical and Bitewing Radiographic Errors in Faculty of Dentistry Shahid Sadoughi University of Yazd during 2016-2017
Authors: Entezar-e- Ghaem Mahjube , Zare Pour Malihe , Shafie Rad Elahe , Razavi Hosein , Lesani Katayoun
Published: January 2023

Introduction: Reduction the error intraoral radiographic image is very important for accurate diagnosis of dental diseases and reduces the patient and clinician dose. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of intraoral radiographic errors made by students of Shahid Sadoughi Faculty of Dentistry in Yazd City.
Methods: In this descriptive-cross-sectional study, 1900 samples of periapical radiographs were taken using digital periapical bisect angle method and bite-wing radiographs were evaluated. Patients referred to Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology Department of Yazd Dental School in 2018-2019 were evaluated by simple sampling method. During 4 months, the researcher examined 25 radiographic images for cone cut errors, horizontal and vertical angles, and incorrect film placement. Also, if the radiography was repeated, the number and reason were also recorded. The recorded data were entered into SPSS version 16 software and the prevalence of each error was reported.
Results: The errors in this study included incorrect film placement (32.4%), incorrect horizontal angle (28.2%), incorrect vertical angle (24.6%), cone cut (23.9%) and radiographic repetition rate (33%). In periapical radiograph, the frequency of errors was observed in maxilla (54.6%), mandible (45.4%), anterior (22.5%) and posterior (77.5%). The frequency of errors in bite-wing radiograph was estimated to be lower than periapical.
Conclusion: Based on the results obtained in the study population, the most common error included incorrect placement and wrong horizontal angle, which were led to the most repeated radiographs and observed mostly posterior of maxilla, which emphasizes the need for further training to correct the errors.
Epidemiology of Psychiatric Disorders and the Relevant Comorbidities in Children and Adolescents in Yazd Province in 2016
Authors: Ahmadi Nastaran , Mohammadi Mohammad Reza , Sadr Bafghi Seyed Mahmood , Yassini Ardekani Seyed Mojtaba , Mirzaei Masoud , Hooshyari Zahra , Alavi Seyed Salman , Rismanian Yazdi Fatemeh , Zahedifard Mahla , Araghi Seyed Mohsen , Mehrparvar Amir Houshang
Published: January 2023

Introduction: Due to significant social, economic, cultural, and lifestyle changes in Iran during past decades and the relationship among the unstable social and economic status and mental complications the study of psychiatric disorders has become important and necessary, the aim of this study was epidemiology of psychiatric disorders in children and adolescents.
Methods: A total of 1035 children aged 6-18 years from Yazd Province, Iran were enrolled in this cross-sectional study in 2017 using a multistage cluster sampling method. Data were collected using the following inventories for school-age children (6-18 years): Kiddie-SADS-Present and Lifetime Version (K-SAD-SPL). Logistic regression and SPSS version 16 software were used for data analysis.
Results: 44.1% of participants were boys and 55.9% were girls. The mean age of the participants was 11.3±3.9 years. The prevalence of psychiatric disorders in children and adolescents was 35.5%. Meanwhile, anxiety disorders had the highest prevalence rate (22.2%) and among anxiety disorders, separation anxiety disorder (8.7%) and generalized anxiety (8.6%) were the most prevalent. There was a significant difference in all psychiatric disorders based on gender, more evident in the high rate of obsessive-compulsive disorder, enuresis, tic, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, hyperactivity, oppositional defiant disorder, conduct disorder, smoking disorder, and epilepsy were more evident in boys (P-value < 0.05).
Conclusion: The prevalence rate of psychiatric disorders in young population of Yazd Province is relatively high and because of its impact on individuals' social and personal function, it could have substantial implications for mental health services.