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Background and Aims: According to the research background and need to print CBCT images in case of emergency, this study has been done to compare the quality and accuracy of the two methods of film and paper printing for CBCT images. Materials and Methods: The study of CBCT images taken from 5 patients was done and the cross-sectional slices on Fotolusio DNP papers and film AGFA were printed. Afterward, the images was exmined by a maxillofacial radiologist. The images' quality were identified and recorded with anatomical, from 1 to 4 on forms. The accuracy was determined by the diagnosis of alveolar canal area and the comparison with the gold standard. Data were analyzed using independent chi-square and Fisher exact tests'. Results: The images quality in anatomical landmarks consisting PDL (P=0.02), lamina dura (P=0.006), the inferior alveolar canal (P=0.01) and the filling (P=0.006) had a significant difference. There was no significant difference. For the lower border of the mandible landmark, there was no difference between the two methods of printing. In comparing the diagnostic accuracy between the two methods (P=1). Conclusion: The results showed that the diagnostic quality in film printing is better than paper printing and the diagnostic accuracy is the same in both methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim Fibromyalgia syndrome is a chronic disease that causes widespread musculoskeletal pain. It primarily affects women and negatively impacts many aspects of a person’s psychological and social life. This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of cognitive therapy based on mindfulness and compassion therapy on automatic negative thoughts, psychological symptoms, pain intensity, and quality of life in patients with fibromyalgia syndrome. Methods & Materials This research is a quasi-experimental study with a pre-test-post-test design with two experimental and one control group. The statistical study population consisted of all individuals with fibromyalgia syndrome referred to Mehregan Pain Clinic in Mirdamad (District 3), Seyed Khandan Clinic (District 4), and Taleghani Hospital Pain Clinic (District 1) in Tehran City, Iran. Of them, 30 patients were randomly selected and divided into three groups of experimental 1, experimental 2, and control; each group will include 10 people. The instruments used in this study included the World Health Organization quality of life questionnaire (WHOQOL BREF), pain intensity questionnaire (PIS), psychological symptoms questionnaire (Anxiety, Stress and Depression [DASS]), and automatic negative thoughts (QNS). Ethical Considerations This study was approved by the Research Ethics Committee of Arak Branch, Islamic Azad University (Code: IR.IAU.ARAK.REC.1400.005). Results The analysis of covariance showed the effectiveness of both cognitive therapies based on mindfulness and compassion therapy on four variables of pain intensity, psychological symptoms, automatic negative thoughts, and quality of life (P<0.05). Comparing the two intervention methods showed that both therapies had almost the same effect on pain intensity, psychological symptoms, and automatic negative thoughts (P<0.05) but the effectiveness of mindfulness intervention on the quality of life was significantly higher than compassion intervention (P<0.05). Conclusion The results indicate that cognitive therapy based on mindfulness and compassion therapy are suitable for people with fibromyalgia under appropriate treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objective: Over half of medical researches in Iran are done by students of different levels as their thesis. In medical school, thesis is a 6 hours mandatory course. This study caried out to determine the publication of thesis in faculty of medical in Gorgan, located in North of Iran. Materials and Methods: This descriptive study was performed on all thesis and all faculty members who have been advisor of at least one thesis up to the time of this study. To collect data, we used a questionnaire which contained questions about the research, their output and any obstacles to publication. All data have been analyzed by SPSS-13 software and Chi-Square test. Results: According to the collected information, 322 thesis were directed by 43 faculty academic members of Gorgan Medical School. 87.6% and 12.4% thesis supervisors were clinical and basic science academic members respectively. The majority of 127 (39.4%) published papers have either been published by domestic medical journals or represented in medical seminars inside the country. Basic members have published 70% of their papers while only 35.1% of clinical faculty members have published their research findings. Experimental papers have been published more than other papers (48.5%). The most important publication barrier were lack of time and collaborator in this matter. Conclusion: This study showed that publication rate of medical student thesis is far from ideal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background & Aim: Due to the increase in anxiety caused by corona in students, especially nursing students who deal with patients, it seems necessary to identify ways to deal with it. The purpose of the present study is to investigate the relationship between religious beliefs and anxiety of Corona among nursing students of Gonabad University of Medical Sciences. Materials & Methods: In this descriptive research, 159 nursing students who met the criteria for entering the study in 2019 were included in the study by stratified random sampling. The data was collected through the questionnaire of demographic information, corona anxiety and religious beliefs of George. Data analysis were analyzed using descriptive and analytical statistical methods (Kolmogorov-Smirnov, Mann-Whitney, Fisher, Chi-Square) at a significance level of P<0.05. Results: The results showed that the majority (79.2%) of weak corona anxiety research units had strong religious beliefs (73.6%), and Spearman's test showed that there is no significant relationship between corona anxiety and religious orientation (P<0.05). Conclusion: Acting on religious beliefs can reduce people's anxiety in difficult and critical situations, and in this study, because the majority of the research units had strong religious beliefs, they reported low corona anxiety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Various studies on prevalence of celiac disease in patients with irritable bowel syndrome in Iran is available that Chiefly, the prevalence of this disease and its association with several factors have been investigated. In order to gain a better perspective of Iran and spread across the heterogeneity, all studies included in the systematic review, the findings were analyzed and used a meta-analysis. Materials and Methods: All articles published in Iranian journals and international research project, related papers presented at the Congress, and the Student thesis, in this study used standard and sensitive keyword. All the articles published in this field in the country, where inclusion criteria for assess quality control using random effect, and the meta-analysis were entered. Results: In 7 studies, minimum and maximum prevalence of celiac disease in patients with irritable bowel syndrome, 2/59 % and 13/5 % was calculated, and total prevalence of this disease based on fix effect model 6/26 %, with the heterogeneity index equals Q =13/74 (t2=52/05 and P=56) and reliability 99% (x2= l6/8) was estimated and because of the high heterogeneity based on random effect model, total and final prevalence of the celiac disease in IBS patients 7/59%, with the heterogeneity index equals Q=2/05 (t2=0 and I2=19) and confidence 95% (Cl =8/07-7/23) were counted. Also by using method of meta-regression, main factors causing heterogeneity, variable location, time, and gender of patients were identified. (p<0/01). Conclusion: Considering that the prevalence of celiac disease in patients with irritable bowel syndrome in the country is high, with knowledge and research-centered measures, total level of health in the country should be raised and daily, in the direction to the horizon landscape of civil and global health charter progressed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background As congenital gastrointestinal diseases are pretty common and can lead to fatal consequences when combined with congenital heart diseases, we conducted a study in Iran to explore the relationship and prevalence of these two conditions. Our objective was to identify the types and frequency of congenital heart diseases in children who also have gastrointestinal anomalies. Materials and Methods: This was a cross-sectional analytical study. The research population was the patients referred to the Gastrointestinal Clinic of Hazrat Masoumeh Children's Subspecialty Hospital during the 2011-2017. In this study, the echocardiography in the patients’ files performed by a pediatric heart specialist was examined, and in the next step, the patients were divided into two groups with and without heart disorders. Gastrointestinal abnormalities were also recorded in the relevant checklist. Finally, the recorded information was entered into SPSS software version 22, and Chi-square and Fisher exact tests were used to compare the qualitative findings. The significant level for all tests was considered to be 0.05. Results: The average age of the children in this study was 7.93±7.74 months. 105 boys (54.7%) and 87 girls (45.3%) were examined. 167 children (87%) had cardiovascular abnormalities and 25 children (13%) had no abnormalities. The most common types of cardiovascular abnormalities were 69 (35.9%) septal defects, 36 (18.8%) atrial septal defects, and 22 (11.5%) pulmonary valve stenosis. The least frequent abnormalities were cardiomyopathy in three (1.6%) and ventricular inter-atrial septal defects along with atrial septal defects in one (0.5%) patient There was not a significant correlation between congenital heart diseases and frequency of closed anus, rectovaginal fistula, Hirschsprung, anal stenosis, rectal prolapse, perianal fistula, esophageal atresia, pyloric hypertrophy, intestinal obstruction, annular pancreas, biliary atresia, diaphragmatic hernia, Meckel's diverticulum.(P>0.05). A significant relationship was found only between omphalocele and pyloric hypertrophy with the presence of cardiovascular disorders (P<0.05). Conclusion: The results showed that congenital heart diseases have a high prevalence in infants with gastrointestinal anomalies, so cardiac examination is mandatory in all infants with gastrointestinal anomalies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Schizophrenia is a mental disorder in which the facts surrounding a person are interpreted as abnormal. The treatment aims to reduce symptoms and the possibility of disease recurrence. Aim: This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of spironolactone on schizophrenia symptoms. Method: In this double-blind analytical and clinical study, 44 patients were randomly divided into two groups. The study was carried out in Quds Hospital and centers for psychiatric patients in Sanandaj city in 2019 and 2020. The number of patients decreased to 32 due to drug side effects and unwillingness to continue treatment. The instrument used was the scale test of positive and negative symptoms of schizophrenia. Datum were analyzed using chi-square and ANOVA with repeated measurements and independent t-tests by SPSS-23 software. Results: The results showed that out of 44 patients studied, 37 (84.1%) were men and 7 (15.9%) were women. The imbalance was due to the small sample size. There was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of sex distribution, literacy level, marital status, employment history, and background medication use (P>0.05). In addition, there was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of reducing negative symptoms (P=0.666), positive symptoms (P=0.748) and general symptoms (P=0.342). Conclusion: According to the finding, spironolactone has no significant effect on reducing negative, positive, and general symptoms. Therefore, it is suggested to carry out more studies using this drug (by removing the limitations of this study) and other drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The infant mortality rate is one of the most important parameters for evaluating the health index in societies. The present study aimed to investigate the mortality rate of infants hospitalized in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) (Ayatollah Taleghani Hospital, Ilam) from 2018-2019. Material & Methods: This cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted on infants hospitalized in the NICU department of Ayatollah Taleghani Hospital in Ilam, from April 2018 to March 2019. The sampling was performed using the census method. The data collection tools included a demographic questionnaire and a researcher-made checklist. The collected data were analyzed in SPSS software (version 26) using chisquare and independent t-tests at a significance level (P<0.05). Findings: In the current study, the total number of infants hospitalized in the NICU was 83, and 28 infants died, of whom 11 (30.6%) cases were girls and 17 (36.2%) neonates were boys. The mean age of deceased infants was 32.67 weeks. The most common type of disease at the time of death in these infants was asphyxia, with a frequency of 35.7% (n=10). Age and gender showed no significant relationship with mortality (P>0.05). Discussion & Conclusion: Due to the high mortality rate in premature neonates with less than 32 weeks of gestation, effective measures should be put on the agenda to prevent premature birth and respiratory distress syndrome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Patients who undergo major orthopedic surgery are at risk of acute kidney injury (AKI) due to blood loss, electrolyte disorders, infection, and other co-morbidities. In this study, we aim to investigate the frequency of AKI and its risk factors in patients undergoing major orthopedic surgery in Rasht, Iran. Objective This is an analytical cross-sectional study on 180 patients undergoing major orthopedic surgery. Those with a history of chronic kidney disease and dialysis were excluded. Methods The data including patients’ age, gender, drug history, history of underlying diseases, duration of surgery, mean arterial pressure during and after surgery, and use of inotrope during and after surgery, and creatinine level before and after the surgery. Results The mean age of patients was 47.3±22.8 years. The incidence of AKI was 11.11%. The use of some drugs, duration of surgery, MAP, and inotrope use had no significant relationship. The occurrence of AKI had a significant relationship with the history of heart disease, diabetes, and kidney disease. Multiple linear regression analysis results showed that with the increase of one unit in preoperative creatinine level, the postoperative creatinine level increased by 0.3. Conclusion The incidence of AKI after major orthopedic surgery in Rasht city is relatively high. Careful monitoring of kidney function before, during, and after major orthopedic surgery is important; it can prevent the occurrence of postoperative AKI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim Sciatica is one of the most common diseases of the peripheral nervous system and may be caused by pressure on the sciatic nerve. Due to the fact that piriformis muscle located near the sciatic nerve, piriformis muscle spasm may put pressure on the nerve and cause sciatica and consequently piriformis syndrome. The present study aims to investigate the effect of core stability exercises on pain and inflammation of patients with piriformis syndrome. Methods & Materials This is a randomized clinical trial. The study population consists of all patients with piriformis syndrome referred to medical centers in Arak, Iran from. Of these, 20 were purposefully selected and randomly divided into two groups of control (n=10) and exercise (n=10). The exercise group performed core stability exercises for 6 weeks, while the control group continued their normal life during this period. To examine the differences between the study groups, t-test, Chi-Square test, and McNemar’s test were used. The significance level was set at 0.05. Ethical Considerations This study was approved by the Ethics Committee of Arak University of Medical Sciences (Code: IR.ARAKMU.REC.1400.157) and was registered by Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (ID: IRCT20211003052662N1). Informed consent was obtained from all participants. Results The Mean pain score in the control group decreased from 95.2 to 90.7 after the exercise, which was not statistically significant (P=0.562). In the exercise group, the mean pain score decreased from 91.7 to 33.4, and this decrease was statistically significant (P=0.0); Therefore, at 95% confidence interval, we can say that core stability exercises had a significant effect on the pain of patients with piriformis syndrome (P<0.05). The number of patients with inflamed nerve in the control group decreased from 10 in the pre-test phase to 8 in the post-test phase, but this decrease was not statistically significant (P=0.5). In the exercise group, it was reduced from 10 to 2, and this decrease was statistically significant (P=0.008); Therefore, we can say that core stability exercises had a significant effect on the inflammation of patients with piriformis syndrome (P<0.05). Conclusion Core stability exercises can reduce pain and inflammation in patients with piriformis syndrome. These exercises can be used in the treatment of these patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Covid-19 patients perceive a lot of stress and suffer from psychological symptoms including depression, stress and anxiety. Because these patients are required to comply with quarantine conditions, remote training can be used for these patients. Therefore, this study was conducted with the aim of investigating the effect of remote training of stress management in a cognitive-behavioral way on the psychological symptoms of covid-19 patients. Materials and Methods: In this randomized clinical trial, the research population was all the patients with Covid-19 referred to the Dr.Garazi hospital in Isfahan city in the winter of 1400. 70 people were selected by available sampling method and divided into two intervention and control groups (35 people) by limited randomization method. For the intervention group, remote training program on stress management was implemented in five sessions of 60 minutes in two weeks. The control group did not receive training. Psychological symptoms were measured before and after the training sessions using the DASS-21 questionnaire. The data were analyzed with SPSS21 software and at two levels of descriptive and inferential statistics and by performing chi-square tests, analysis of variance, independent and paired ttest, and analysis of covariance. Results: Remote training of stress management in a cognitive-behavioral way has had a significant effect on all dimensions of psychological symptoms of covid-19 patients in the intervention group and has reduced them in the intervention group. (p≤0.05). Conclusion: Based on the results, this method of training can improve the psychological symptoms of covid-19 patients. Considering the possibility of easy and comprehensive use of distance education, it is recommended to use this method of teaching patients in similar pandemic conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Dental abnormalities are considered important, since they cause aesthetic and functional problems for people. Orthodontic treatment becomes more complicated when craniofacial abnormalities are accompanied with dental abnormalities. Objective This study aims to compare the frequency and type of dental abnormalities among patients with different skeletal malocclusion classes in northern Iran in terms of age and gender. Methods Participants were 310 patients (32.9% Class I, 33.9% Class II, and 33.2% Class III). They were evaluated with respect to hypodontia, hyperdontia, impaction, microdontia, macrodontia, and dens invaginatus/evaginatus. Association of the prevalence of dental abnormalities with the type of malocclusion and gender was assessed by chi-square test and Fisher’s exact test, while independent t-test was used to determine its association with age. Results The overall frequency of dental abnormalities was 33%. Class III patients had the highest rate of dental abnormalities (40.8%); however, the difference was not statistically significant (P=0.105). Hypodontia and impacted teeth were the most frequent abnormalities in all malocclusion groups. Occurrence of tooth impaction differed significantly among the three malocclusion groups (P<0.001), where the highest rate belonged to the class III group. Hypodontia was more frequent in males (P=0.040). Tooth impaction and microdontia were the two abnormalities that showed significant association with age (P<0.05). Conclusion Dental abnormalities in northern Iran is more prevalent among people with the skeletal class III malocclusion. The prevalence of some dental abnormalities is associated with gender and age. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim The research results show tobacco use increases cardiovascular and lung disorders or the probability of periodontitis in humans, while no definitive relations were yet confirmed. This study evaluates the relationship between periodontitis and tobacco use by panoramic radiography in Bandar Abbas City. Methods & Materials A total of 198 panoramic radiographs were classified into periapical healthy (n=99) and patient (n=99) groups. Radiologists assessed radiographs for periodontitis via Total Teeth Numbers (TTN), the quality and length of Root Filling Treatment (RFT), the number (NoRFT), and inadequate root filling treatment (RFTin), age, gender, the cigarette and hookah use, and dental debris. Data were analyzed by Chi-Square, t-test, and logistic regression. Ethical Considerations Due to the lack of therapeutic intervention and the preservation of patients’ characteristics, ethical considerations are not included in this study (Code: IR.HUMS.REC.1399.384) Results Tobacco, hookah use, TTN, and RFTin were different (P<0.01) in groups, but cigarette smoking, debris, RFT, NoRFT, and age were not. Women in the periodontitis group showed high (P<0.01) in tobacco, hookah use, and RFTin, while no gender differences were observed in other parameters. The logistic regression results showed that based on the Odd Ratio NoRFT (39.7), RFTin (36.8), `hookah (8.1), tobacco (6.57), debris (3.62), smoking (3.59), RFT (1.4) and TTN (0.89) were the highest (P<0.01). At the same time, age and gender did not affect periapical tissues. Conclusion Hokka, tobacco, and cigarette use negatively affected the periapical tissues, respectively. The decrease in TTN and increase in debris and RFT were probably the effects of tobacco smoking on the periapical tissues. Age and gender were not related to the periapical lesions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Endoscopy is one of the most common diagnostic and therapeutic methods in patients with gastrointestinal diseases. Anxiety and pain are associated with the patients. This procedure is unpleasant and intolerable. The present study was performed to determine the effect of the clinical Orientation Tour on the anxiety, pain, and satisfaction of patients who were candidates for endoscopy referred to Hospital in Rafsanjan in 2019. Hazrat Ali Ibn Abitaleb (AS) Hospital in Rafsanjan in 2019. Materials and Methods: In this clinical trial study, 64 patients referred to the hospital were randomly divided into control and intervention groups. Demographic characteristics, Spiel Berger Anxiety Scale, Visual Analogue Pain Scale, and Modified Questionnaire (GHAA-9) were the data collection tools. The intervention was Orientation Tour with endoscopy and direct endoscopic observation. Patient's anxiety before and after the intervention, pain during endoscopy, and satisfaction after endoscopy were measured. Data were analyzed using paired t-test, independent t-test, Chi-square, linear regression, and Mann-Whitney tests. Analysis was done using SPSS software version 16. Results: The mean score of overt anxiety before the intervention was 56.78 ± 7.32 and after the intervention was 35.19 ± 12.52, latent anxiety ranged from 57.22 ± 9.04 to 32.25 ± 13.67, and total anxiety from 114.00±15.90 decreased to 67.44 ± 25.76, which was statistically significant (P=0.0001). However, in the control group, it was associated with an increase in anxiety scores after the intervention. Pain during endoscopy was also statistically significant between the intervention and control groups (P=0.0001). But the mean satisfaction score after endoscopy was not significantly different between the two groups (P=0.161). Conclusion: Clinical orientation training is effective in reducing anxiety and pain in patients undergoing esophagogastroduodenoscopy. It can therefore be suggested to reduce anxiety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Bariatric surgery is one of the recent advances in the treatment of morbid obesity associated with gastrointestinal disorders. Because of the importance of lifestyle on health promotion, we aimed to investigate the effect of lifestyle modification on gastrointestinal disorders in patients undergoing sleeve gastrectomy. Materials and Methods: This study was a clinical trial performed in the surgical ward of Hazrat Valiasr Hospital during 2020-2021. 70 patients underwent bariatric surgery according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria and were purposefully selected and randomly assigned using quadratic block A and B and divided into experimental and control groups The day before the surgery, an educational intervention was performed for the experimental group with respect to lifestyle modification including six dimensions (nutrition, physical activity, responsibility for health, stress management, relationships and interpersonal support, and spiritual growth, and selffulfillment). The day before and two months after sleeve gastrectomy, the participants were evaluated using the health-promoting lifestyle profile II and a researcher-made questionnaire on gastrointestinal complications. Data were analyzed by SPSS software, version 22, using descriptive and inferential statistical tests (Chi-square, dependent and independent t test and McNemar test) at the significance level of P < 0.05. Results: The rate of constipation and diarrhea decreased after the intervention in the experimental group but the difference was not statistically significant. The rate of nausea and vomiting before and after the intervention was different in both experimental and control group. However, the rate of nausea was significantly lower in the experimental group compared with the control group after the intervention. The rate of reflux reduced before and after the intervention in the experimental group compared with the control group, but the difference not statistically significant compared with the control group after the intervention. Conclusion: Considering the effectiveness of lifestyle modification in reducing gastrointestinal disorders in patients undergoing sleeve gastrectomy, planning to perform this educational intervention is recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Problem Definition: In recent decades, the catastrophic increase in environmental degradation in its various dimensions has been considered by the international community. In the context of these environmental disorders, many inappropriate behaviors that are the result of ignorance and lack of environmental knowledge should not be ignored and rural areas can have a double impact in this regard due to their closer relationship with the environment. Purpose: The purpose of the present study is to evaluate the level of environmental knowledge and awareness of the villagers in the rural area of Choghakhor. Methodology: This research is applied and descriptive-analytical (based on survey) in terms of type and method, respectively. The statistical population includes villagers in the Choghakhor area of Boroujen County. Accordingly, 251 samples from 2065 households were selected by random sampling and questioned. Results: The results of the study show that the average score of environmental knowledge in the sample group is 140.27 which is higher than the cut-off score; therefore, the level of villagers’ environmental awareness and knowledge is above average. The results of the chi-square test and ETA correlation coefficient show that there is a positive and moderate relationship between gender and marital status with the level of awareness and environmental knowledge. For the variables of age and education, according to the value of Kendall's tau-b correlation coefficient -0.179 and 0.401, this relationship is negative-weak and positive-average, respectively. But, there is no relationship between the level of environmental awareness and knowledge and the villagers’ employment status or occupation. Conversely, this relationship exists weakly for the income variable. The results of one-way analysis of variance with the F value (1.248) are not significant and this shows that the spatial difference is not significant with respect to environmental awareness and knowledge. Innovation: The innovation of research lies in the application of indicators appropriate to local conditions, type of tests, and research location. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objective: A Pap smear test is one of the most effective procedures utilized for cervi cal cancer (CC) screening purposes. Nevertheless, many women do not like to do such a test. The present study aimed to monitor the impact of an educational intervention developed based on the expanded Protection Motivation Theory (PMT) on CC screening behavior. Materials and Methods: A quasi-experiment was conducted on 200 women referred to Karaj health centers, Iran. The participants were randomized into experimental and control groups. The data was collected by a Standardized questionnaire including demographic characteristics, the constructs of the PMT, and a self-administered Emotional Social- Support questionnaire (ESS). They filled the questionnaire before, after, and at 6-months follow-up. Eight educational sessions based on the model were held for the experimental group via lecture, group discussions and role play. The data were analyzed by SPSS (Ver. 24) and repeated measures ANOVA and Chi-square test. Results: In the pre- intervention and post-intervention stages, the mean score of perceived susceptibility from 8.07±3.28 to 11.83±1.99, perceived severity from 12.64±3.46 to 15.19± 2.85, response efficacy from 12.66±5.37 to 16.06±3.6, self-efficacy from 25.94±5.38 to 29.68±4.68, emotional social support from 27.01±7.16 to 31.46±5.76 and intention from 11.01±2.14 to 13.42±1.65 increased and this difference was statistically significant (p<0.05). The mean score of fear from 10.37±2.29 to 5.54±2.76 and response cost from 6.62±2.13 to 3.97 ±1.69 decreased and that was statistically significant (p<0.05). No significant difference was observed in the control group. Besides, the Pap smear test was increased after the educational intervention in the post-test and follow-up in the experimental group (p<0.05). Conclusion: Based on the findings, PMT and ESS can be used as a framework for designing educational programs to promote CC screening behavior. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background & Aims: Menopause happens in the life of all women. During this process women inter to the new era of life that have many side effects and difficulties. The purpose of study was to evaluate the frequency of hormone therapy and other supplements. Materials & Methods: This cross-sectional study carried out on 384 menopausal women who attended in medical and health centers of Hamadan city in 2012. The way of sampling was multi-stage cluster. Data were collected through interviews with women in the clinics in the health centers. Data processing and statistical analysis were performed by using SPSS 16.0. Results: The results revealed that mean age of menopause was 48/45± 3/38 year. 81.5% of the women were taking supplements that used hormone therapy (9.1%), and 72.4% used non hormonal supplement that included calcium (38.3%), vitamin (27.3%) and herbal drugs (6.8%). Regarding to this results μ2 test showed that age at menarche, smoking, mother education, BMI, type of menopause, and use of supplements in different menopause groups was not statistically significant (p>0/05). Conclusion: The results showed that 81.5% of menopausal women were taking supplements from which 72.4% was non-hormonal supplements. Therefore, effective educational programs with supplement interventions can improve the quality of life in postmenopausal women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objective: Epidemiology of Visceral Leishmaniasis is affected by combination quality and interaction of Parasite-Vector-Host and environmental conditions. So,disease cycle related and eco-social factors and environmental risk factors co-analyzing, help to understanding these interactions, prognosis and orientation in disease control and treatment. This study was done to determine the role of nomadic and non-nomadic lifestyle in transmission of Kala-Azar in the Northwest of Iran. Materials and Methods: In this case-control study, firstly the prevalence of Kala-Azar among people living in selected villages were determined by both serological test (Direct Agglutination Test: DAT) and immunological test (Montenegro Skin Test: MST) in the Northwest of Iran, on the way of Shahsavan tribe travelling in summer/winter quarters villages. Then DAT was conducted on the dogs presenting in those villages during 2006. One year later Seroconversion rate was calculated through collection of the individual’s negative sera and re-analyzing them via DAT. Finally, occurrence of Visceral Leishmaniasis in relation with various involving factors like dog density/abundance and nomadic and non- nomadic lifestyle using Chi-Square test were determined. Results: Both MST and DAT were significantly higher in the nomadic lifestyle than in the nonnomadic lifestyle (P<0.05). Three values of prevalence (5.5%), seropositivity (2.7%) and seroconversion (2.5%) were higher in nomads than non-nomads. The GIS studies and electronically prepared maps showed that the endemicity and the infection rate are higher in nomadsthan non-nomads. There were a negative correlation between general distribution of Visceral Leishmaniasis in relation with environmental conditions altitude, mean temperature and rainfall. Conclusion: This study indicated that Nomadic lifestyle can play as a risk factor in transmission of Visceral Leishmaniasis due to nomads/dog contacting, their entering in the wild cycle of disease and travelling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objective: Controversies results in quality of life associated with the type of delivery have been reported. This study was performed to determine the relationship between Women’s Quality of life and type of delivery. Materials and Methods: This descriptive analytical study was conducted on 300 women that referring to health center in kashan city during 2007-08. The women were divided in two groups according to the type of delivery whether it was cesarean section or vaginal delivery. Special life quality questionnaire, 2 and 4 months after delivery was completed by women. Scores of aspects in 2 and 4 months after delivery were determined and compared between two groups. Data was analyzed by SPSS-16 software, Chi-Square, independent t- test, pair t test and Mann- U Whitey test. Results: Findings showed no differences in aspects of quality of life between cesarean section and normal delivery groups except in “Mother's satisfaction toward delivery” that results showed higher score 2 months (p=0.03) and 4 months (p=0.018) after normal delivery. Scores of this aspect in 2 months after normal delivery and cesarean section was (4.40±1.11, 3.76±1.16) and in 4 months after normal delivery and cesarean section was (4.13±1.40, 3.82±1.22) respectively. Conclusion: This study showed there was not significant difference in women quality of life between cesarean section and normal delivery 2 and 4 monthes after delivery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim Ankle injuries are among the most common musculoskeletal injuries in sports, accounting for 10% to 15% of all injuries. Since controlling pain and inflammation in ankle sprains is one of the main goals of treatment, we decided to compare the therapeutic effects of Cheleh daghi Herbal ointment with a common therapeutic gel such as piroxicam. Methods & Materials This study was performed as a double-blinded clinical trial for 6 months from January 2019 to August 2019. After referral, all patients completed the consent form, and the patient's details and study variables were recorded by the evaluator in the research form. To measure joint inflammation, we measured the ankle with a meter tape in the ankle area (cm) and recorded. A goniometer was also used to measure the degree of ankle movements. The symptoms of ankle ecchymosis were also checked by physical examination and observation and recorded in the checklist. Statistical analysis was performed in SPSS V. 18 using statistical tests (the Mann-Whitney U test, the Chi-square, and the independent t-test). Ethical Considerations The Research Ethics Committee of Arak University of Medical Sciences approved the study (Code: IR.ARAKMU.REC.1396.55) and registered by the Clinical Trial (Code: IRCT2017071720258N53). Results The Mean±SD age in the control group was 34.2±8.6 years, and in the case group was 35.4±8.9 years. There was no statistically significant difference according to the Mann-Whitney U test (P<0.05). Also, the Mean±SD height in the control group was 1.7±0.12 m and in the case group was 1.72±0.11 m. The results also showed a statistically significant difference between the two groups studied before and after the intervention regarding the mean indicators of pain, swelling, and inflammation around the joints (P<0.05). Conclusion The results of our study showed that Cheleh daghi Herbal ointment for 3 weeks could be more effective in reducing local pain and inflammation than piroxicam gel treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Barley leaf stripe caused by the fungus Pyrenophora graminea, is one of the most important and devastating barley diseases in Iran. A total of 121 P. graminea isolates was recovered from cultivated barley in West Azerbaijan (Miyandoab region), East Azerbaijan (Miyaneh region), Ardebil (Ardebil region) and Zanjan (Khorramdareh region) provinces in 2016. After morphological and molecular identification, mating type primers were designed based on a conserved DNA binding (alpha domain) in MAT-1 and the high mobility group (HMG) domain in MAT-2. Frequency of mating type idiomorphs of P. graminea isolates were done by Multiplex PCR. Among 121 isolates, 56 isolates amplified by MAT-1 primer and 65 isolates by MAT-2 primer. Frequencies of two mating types in Khorramdareh (1) and Miyandoab populations had an excess of the MAT-1 and MAT-2 alleles, respectively. According to the results of the Chi-square test (X²), Miyaneh, Ardebil (1 and 2) and Khoramdareh (2) populations had not significant difference in compared with Khorramdareh (1) and Miyandoab populations. Therefore, these four populations have the highest potential for sexual reproduction than the two populations of Miyandoab and Khorramdareh (1). In addition, isolates from all of the populations were studied to evaluate the sexual fertility through directed crossing with opposite mating types. After six months, pseudothecia formed in media without mature asci and ascospores. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and AIM: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the referral rate for dental services and it's preventing Factors and oral Health related behavior in people with history of drug abuse referred to drug rehabilitation centers in the city of Sari. Material & methods: This was a cross-sectional study. 120 people with history of drug abuse referred to drug rehabilitation centers in the city of Sari were participated in this study. Data collection was done with standardized questionnaire about demographic data and interview based on the questionnaire about addiction history, oral health related behavior, referral rate for dental services and it's preventing Factors. SPSS V:16 and Chi-square test were used for statistical analysis. SPSS V16 and Chi-square test were used for statistical analysis. Results: The most common barrier to dental services was “little priority of dental care in life" which was mentioned in 89.2%of people and then "the inability to pay for dental costs"in 68.3% and "fear of dentist and pain during treatment" in about half of them. “Improper access to dental services” was mentioned in more than a quarter of people. Oral health care behavior was poor in people with history of addiction. 52% of them never brush their teeth or brush rarely. 90% of them never floss their teeth or floss rarely. 82% eat sugery food in more than two times a day and the last dental visit was more than a year ago in 68% of them. Conclusion: According to the poor oral health related behavior and and the problems that these people are involved with and due to the reasons for less dental visits, appropriate educational, preventive and therapeutic actions seem necessary to improve the quality of life in people who are being treated for addiction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives HBV, a classic viral Transfusion Transmitted Infection(TTI), is considered an important health and blood safety issue in every society. Prevalence of HBsAg positivity is variable among Iranian blood donors nationwide. This study was performed to determine the frequency of HBsAg positive blood donors and the probable associated risk factors in Mazandaran province in 2013. Materials and Methods In this cross sectional descriptive study, demographic and donation data were gathered from IBTO data base (NEGARE). HBsAg positive donors were recalled for post test counseling and assessment of probable risk factors. SPSS 16 Chicago, χ2 and T-test were used as tools for data analysis. Results Among 131950 whole blood donors with mean age of 31.1 ± 9.5, 174(0.13%) proved to be HbsAg positive. Deferral rate was 16.6%. The highest and lowest positivity rates were observed at Babol and Galoogah, respectively. 95% of positive cases were detected among first time and male donors (p = 0.0001). Older age, lower education level, and first time donation were obtained as demographic risk factors primarily. No significant association between gender and marital status was found. However, post test counseling revealed nonimmune dental procedures, high risk sexual contacts, cupping, family history of Hepatitis, hospital admission, tattooing, history of surgery, Intravenous Drug Use (IDU), endoscopic procedures, transfusion history and needle stick as risk factors in HBsAg positive donors. Conclusions HbsAg positivity rate in Mazandaran province donors is compatible with the country rate (0.13%). Main risk factors except gender and marital status are almost similar to other studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable cancers. Regular screening behaviors play an important role in reducing the incidence and deaths of this cancer. Therefore, in the present study we aimed to determine the factors associated with intention to perform fecal occult blood test (FOBT) among medical professionals using the protection motivation theory (PMT). Materials and Methods: This descriptive-analytical study was conducted on 240 employees aged over 50 years in Hamadan University of Medical Sciences in 2018 using multistage random sampling. The data were collected using a questionnaire including demographic information and PMT constructs. Data were analyzed using SPSS software version 16. Chi-square and linear regression tests were used as appropriated. Results: In this study, 22.8% of the participants reported a history of FOBT. There was a significant correlation between the referring to the doctor for intestinal disease and performing FOBT (p < 0.05). Based on the PMT, perceived self-efficacy (β = 0.439) and response efficiency (β = 0.48) were predictive of protection motivation (intention) to conduct FOBT. In total, different structures of the PMT explained 24.6% of the variation of intention changes (R2 = 0.226). Conclusion: Due to the low frequency of screening behavior among staff, the emphasis on the importance of early diagnosis of cancer is necessary. Also, consideration of perceived self-efficacy and the effectiveness of screening behaviors in designing staff training programs are recommended for increasing the intention to perform screening behaviors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background & Aims: Communication skills are the cornerstone of the entire adequate clinical measures and have an important role in health sector. Therefore, educating communication skills to the students improve the efficiency of the education system. In this regard, Competency-Based Education Model (CBEM) is a new educational model that aims to reach desired clinical role. This study aims to determine the effect of implementing competency-based education model on nursing students' communication skills in Urmia Medical Sciences University. Materials & Methods: In this quasi-experimental study with post-test design; 34 senior nursing students, who met the inclusion criteria, were selected through census and divided into two groups as control and experimental. The control group received traditional education and the experiment group received competency-based education for their coronary care unit course. The students' communication skills score were measured through a researcher-made data collecting instrument (selfreport questionnaire with likert rating scale). The collected data was analyzed by SPSS (19) software using descriptive and inferential statistics (Kolmogorov-Smirnov, Chi square and independent t-test). Results: The results indicate that communication skills of students in the experimental group was significantly higher than students in the control group (P=0.007). Conclusion: CBEM better than the conventional model improves the students' communication skills. Therefore, it is suggested to improve the efficiency and the effectiveness of clinical courses by taking advantage of this educational. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hepatitis B and C infections have remained major global health burdens during the most recent century. The viral agents responsible for these diseases share common modes of transmission with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) such as needle-sharing in IV drug abusers. Coinfection of hepatitis B or C with HIV increases the rate of progression of chronic liver disease. Given the lack of data in Iran, in particular Khorasan Razavi Province, with regards to this coinfection, the present study evaluates the frequency distribution of hepatitis B and C coinfection with HIV infection and their modes of transmission. Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective study based on available data at the Gastrointestinal and Liver Diseases Center, Emam Reza Hospital, Mashhad, Iran. We used questionnaires to collect demographic data from 749 patients infected with hepatitis B or C who refered to this clinic between 2005 and 2008. The available sera of these patients were tested for the coexistence of HIV infection with hepatitis B or C infections. The results were analyzed with SPSS version 16 software. Results: From 749 patients infected with hepatitis B or C viruses, 650 were infected with hepatitis B (64.9% male and 35.1% female). There was no HIV antibody detected in any of the patients' sera who had hepatitis B infection. Among the 106 patients with hepatitis C infection (84% male and 16% female), only one (0.9%) who was an IV drug abuser tested positive for HIV infection. Hepatitis B/hepatitis C coinfection was found in 7 (0.9%) patients. With regards to the risk factors of viral transmission among those with hepatitis B infection, the most common was a positive family history of hepatitis B (37.2%). Other risk factors in order of decreasing frequency included a history of venesection and tattooing (13.8%), transfusions (7.1%), IV drug abuse (2.6%), needle stick accidents (2.3%), and high-risk sexual activity (0.6%). In those with hepatitis C infection, a history of IV drug abuse was the most common risk factor (40.6%), followed by a history of transfusions (28.3%), venesection or tattooing (16%), surgery (13.2%), needle stick accidents (4.7%), hepatitis C infection in a family member (2.8%), and unsafe sexual contact (0.9%). There was a significant difference in the transmission risk factor ratio between hepatitis B and C patients (p=0.001, χ²=261/590) Conclusion: The most common risk factor for transmission of hepatitis B and C infections in patients who presented to Emam Reza Hospital, a referral center in Mashhad, was a positive family history o f hepatitis B infection and IV drug abuse, respectively. The prevalence of HIV coinfection amongst patients with hepatitis B or C infections was low. However, further studies with larger populations are required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is one of the most common gastrointestinal diseases related to the psychological status of the patient. The aim of this study is to assess the relation of GERD with general psychological wellbeing (GPWB). Materials and Methods: This population study was performed among adult residents of Tehran, Iran in 2013. We invited high school and university educated healthy appearing subjects who were members of a health surveillance study in district number 11 of Tehran to reply to the GPWB query. Participants were divided into two groups, GERD patients and controls. We compared the dimensions of GPWB among these two groups. Results: A total of 135 persons with a mean age of 35.5 ± 13 years were recruited for study participation. Approximately 30% of men and 23% of women had at least weekly GERD symptoms. Anxiety was significantly more common among GERD patients than controls. General health and positive well-being were significantly impaired among GERD patients. Conclusion: Assessment of self-representation of wellbeing and distress in GERD patients and consideration of new, relevant therapeutic avenues are important for the control of GERD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Use of digital radiography in dentistry, as a new imaging technique, continues to increase. A digital system has numerous advantages. The aim of this study was to determine the frequency of the use of digital radiography and the reasons for using or not using digital imaging systems among dentists in Esfahan in 2012. Materials and methods: In the present descriptive/analytical survey, 140 dentists who participated in continuing education courses in 2012 were randomly included. The participants received a questionnaire consisting of 18 questions and filled it on the spot. Data was analyzed by SPSS 16 using chi-squared test and t-test (α=0.05). Results: Ten responders (7.2%) had digital equipment in their office; 104 dentists (74.8%) prescribed digital radiographs for referring patients to radiology centers. The most important reasons for using digital systems by the respondents were no need for film processing steps, absence of artifacts due to film processing procedures and low radiation doses. There were no significant differences between the users and non-users of digital systems in relation to educational degree (general practitioner or specialist) and years in dentistry (p value = 0.619, years in dentistry; p value = 0.45, educational degree). Conclusion: Under the limitations of the present study, although the frequency of the use of digital radiographic systems is low in dental offices in Esfahan, it is advisable top order digital radiographs when referring patients to radiology centers. Lack of need for film processing steps and high costs are the reasons for using and not using digital systems, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objective: Impacted molars teeth, especially third molar, are important in most branches of medical sciences. The angular position of molar teeth is in side effects and therapeutic regiment. This study was conducted to determine the angle of the impacted mandibular third molars. Materials and Methods: This descriptive study was carried out on 429 patients (269 men and 160 women) selected for surgery on impacted mandibular third molar in the oral and maxillofacial surgery clinic in Gorgan, Iran during 2010-11. Pre-operative diagnosis was done by physical examination and OPG radiography. Demographic characterstics including age, gender, ethnicity, impaction angle were recorded for each subject. Data were analyzed using SPSS-16, independent t-test and chi-square test. Results: Totally, 480 impacted third molars were studied. Mean age of patients was 26.06±6.21 years. Impaction of the third molar was more prevalent among men (62.7%) than women (38.30%). Impacted mandibular third molar of 189 people (44.1%) were in left side in 200 people (46.6%) were in right side and in 40 people (9.3%) were bilateral. According to impaction angle, mesioangular (41.7%) and distoangular (3.5%) types had the highest and the lowest frequency, respectively. In bilateral cases, the mesioangular-mesioangular type (48.8%) was the most prevalent. The mesioangular type was the most prevalent in all ethnic groups. The most prevalent angular position of the impacted third molar was the mesioangular type in both sexes. Conclusion: This study showed that the most prevalent angular position of impacted mandibular third molar is the mesioangular type. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objective: Post-operative nausea vomiting (PONV) and laryngospasm are the most common of complication following surgery. This study was conducted to compare the incidence of laryngospasm and PONV after pediatric infra umbilical surgery using two anesthetic methods: control ventilation and spontaneous respiration. Materials and Methods: This double-blind clinical trial study was conducted on 192 children with 2-7 year-old undergoing infra-umbilical surgery of ASA-I class with the estimated operation period of an hour in Tehran pediatric hospital, Tehran-Iran during 2009-10. The patients were randomly divided into two groups: controlled ventilation and spontaneous respiration. After anesthetization, Atracurium was injected to the control ventilation (CV) group and anesthesia continued with mechanical ventilation. For the patients of the second group (spontaneous respiration/SR), after the gradual increase of the dose of halothane and certainty of the optimal depth of anesthesia, patients were intubated to allow spontaneous respiration. After intubation, all patients were anesthetized with Halothane 1-2% and the N2O/O2. The rate of nausea, vomiting, laryngospasm, excessive post-operative discharge was recorded. Data were analyzed using SPSS-13, student's t-test, chi-square and Fisher's exact tests. Results: Post-operative nausea was non significantly higher in CV group (8%) than SR (6.52%). The rate of vomiting was higher in CV (16%) as compared to SR group (2.17%). (P<0.001, RR=8.57, CI: 1.91- 38.41). The rate of laryngospasm at the end of the surgery was higher in CV group (15.21%) as compared to SR group (26%) (P<0.02, RR= 0.94, CI: 0.05-1.77). The rate of excessive discharge at the end of the surgery was significantly higher in CV group (52%) in comparison with SR group (11.95%) (P<0.001, RR=0.94, CI: 0.05-1.77). Conclusion: This study showed that in infra-umbilical surgeries in a period of less than an hour the incidence of post-operative vomiting and laryngospasm is higher in control ventilation group than spontaneous respiration group, which might be due to the injection of neostigmine to counter-act the effects of muscle relaxants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objective: Triage is the most important and the first stage of patient's management at the time of arrival to hospital emergency department. Emergency severity index (ESI) is a common triage system worldwide. This study was aimed to evaluate the accuracy of ESI in emergency department of Imam Hossein hospital in Tehran, Iran. Materials and Methods: In this descriptive study the result of patients' triage based on ESI were gathered for all patients referred to emergency department of Imam Hossein Hospital from January to April 2011. A questioner was filled for each patient by the nurse and a emergency specialist independently. The l index was applied to compare the nurse observation with the specialist clinician. The STATA-11.0 statistical software and roctab table were used to determine the validity, specificity and sensivity of triage. Data were analyzed using Chi-Square and Fisher tests. Results: The calculated l for the degree of agreement of triage between nurse and clinician was 81% (95% CI: 0.79-0.83). The sensivity of triage for step I, II, III, IV and V were 100%, 53.2%, 90.7%, 67.1% and 98% respectively. The specificity of triage for step I, II, III, IV and V were 99.8%, 97.5%, 93.7%, 98.3% and 94% respectively. There was a significant overlapping between the triage step and the patient clinical outcome. Conclusion: This study showed that five steps triage contain a high accuracy and estimation of patient outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objective: Early prediction of prolonged pregnancy for prevention of fetal asphyxia is important. The present study aimed to examine transvaginal ultrasonographic measurement of the cervical length at week 37 as a predictor of prolonged pregnancy. Materials and Methods: This study was a descriptive-correlated design of ultrasound examination at week 37 of gestation in 126 singleton pregnant women with cephalic presentation attending for prenatal care at the southern Tehran health antepartum clinics. The length of the cervix was measured using transvaginal ultrasound and clinical and demographic data questionnaire. Gestational age at the time of delivery was calculated. Prolonged pregnancy was defined as a pregnancy that extended beyond 41 weeks of gestation. T-test, χ2 test, Logistic Regression and receiver operating characteristic curve was used for statistical analysis using the SPSS ver. 16.0. Results: The mean cervical length was 26.10 ±8.9. The rate of pregnancy that extended beyond 41 weeks of gestation in this study was 4.8%. The cervical length at week 37 was significantly longer in women who delivered at >41 weeks (n=6) than in those delivering at ≤41 weeks (n=120), (34.08 mm ±8.5 vs. 25.7 ±8.7 mm; P=0.02). The best cut-off value of cervical length at week 37 for the prediction of prolonged pregnancy was 25.5 mm, with a sensitivity of 100%, specificity of 50%, positive predictive value of 9%, and negative predictive value of 100%. Conclusion: Cervical length at week 37 can predict the likelihood of prolonged pregnancy, but with low positive predictive value. This information can be utilized when counseling patients regarding the management of term pregnancies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objective: The etiology of childhood leukemia as the most common childhood malignancy remains largely unknown. This study was done to ascess the risk factors in childhood lymphoblastic leukemia in Shiraz-Iran. Materials and Methods: This case-control study was done on 141 children younger than 18 years suffering from acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) whome resided at Fars Province of Iran during 2009. Patients were individually matched with 141 controls in respect to age, sex and residential area. Variables included: maternal age, parental education, father occupation, child birth weight and birth order, number of siblings, history of pet ownership including cat or dog, history of child day care attendance, history of leukemia in relatives, and history of mother diagnostic radiography during pregnancy. In order to evaluate the relationships between each variable and the risk of leukemia, odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were estimated using conditional logistic regression. Data were analyzed using SPSS-16 and Chi-Square test. Results: The agricultural occupation fathers in case and control were 17% and 5.7%, respectivley (P<0.01). The association between risk of childhood lymphoblastic leukemia with birth order⩾3 (OR=5.939, 95% CI: 2.646-13.331, P<0.01), pet ownership (dog or cat) (OR=2.582, 95% CI: 1.265-5.269, P<0.009) and history of leukemia in first and second degree relatives (OR=3.5, 95% CI: 1.252-10.633, P<0.027) was significant. No relationship was found between birth weight, day care attendance, history of miscarriage, number of siblings and history of mother diagnostic radiology tests with risk of acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Conclusion: This study showed that father occupation, birth order, pet and history of leukemia in relation are risk factors of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objective: Since accurate and quick clinical and paraclinical diagnostic methods are not available, in some cases diagnosis of active pulmonary tuberculosis occurs after considerable time from the onset of disease. This study was designed to determine the diagnostic value of High Resolution Computed Tomographic (HRCT) scan in active pulmonary tuberculosis, in Gorgan, Golestan province, North of Iran. Materials and Methods: This diagnostic screening study was carried out on 135 (79 male and 56 female) hospitalized patients suspected with active pulmonary tuberculosis, and HRCT was used in their course of treatment as recommendation of their clinician. The patients were chosen from 5th Azar hosptial during 2009-10. Also it should be mentioned that patients were selected on avaliabity bases, and they were examined by smear, and sputum culture. The patients with negative smear and culture were set up as true healthy group (64 subjects). The lung or small nuddles in HRCT was considered as proper position of lung involvument in active lung pulmonary. The HRCT findings between the case group (71 subjects) and healthy group were compared. According to HRCT findings, the sensitivity and specifity were determined for each patient. Data were analyzed using SPSS-16 and Chi-Square test. Results: In this study, sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value of HRCT in active pulmonary tuberculosis were equal to 97.2%, 71.9%, 79.3% and 95.8% respectively. Involvement of upper and middle lobe of the right lung and upper lobe of the left lung were significantly higher than the control group (P<0.05). Conclusion: This study showed that HRCT has high sensitivity and specificity in diagnosis of active pulmonary tuberculosis and can be used as a quick diagnostic way in active pulmonary tuberculosis, especially in patients with strong clinical suspicion and negative smear. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objective: Cutaneous leishmaniasis is one of the zoonosis disease which is transmitted by sand fly and has been considered as one of the most important health problems in Iran. This study was designed to assess the status of cutaneous leishmaniasis in Gonbad Kavoos, North of Iran. Materials and Methods: This descriptive-analytical retrospective study was performed on the two groups consist of: 1799 patients (995 men and 804 women) referred to health centers of Gonbad Kavoos in Golestan Province North of Iran during 2009-11. Also 278 men and 271 women were selected randomly in one of the villages for the assessment of acute and scar wounds. Patient's characteristics such as age, sex, habitat, number and sites of ulcer(s), month and years of incidence were registered. Data were analyzed using SPSS-13 and Chi-Square test. Results: From 1799 under care patients, 995 cases (55.3%) were males and 804 cases (44.7%) were females (P<0.05). 1542 patients (85.7%) resided in rural areas, while 257 (14.3%) lived in urban areas (P<0.05). The most frequent age group was 0-9 years old (43.3%) (P<0.05). Hands were the most common sites of ulcer (42.3%) and 37.9% of the patients with one ulser. The highest prevalency of disease was observed in months of October and November (68.4%) 4% and 78.6% of subjects selected from villages were presented with acute wound and scar, respectivley. Conclusion: This study showed that Cutaneous leishmaniasis in 2010-11 was dispersed in Gonbad- Kavoos a city in North of Iran. The endemicity situation of this disease in this area is hypoendemic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objective: Headache is one the most common compliant of patients and has different causes and the migraine and tension headaches are common. Personality is characteristics forming an individual distinctive manner. This study aimed to determine the frequency and association of different types of personality characteristics in patients with migraine and tension headaches. Materials and Methods: This descriptive-analytic study was done on 160 (12 male and 148 female) subjects with chief complaint of headache whome referred to 5th Azar clinics of Gorgan, Iran during 2007-08. Subjects were selected by simple random sampling and were examined by either a neurologist or psychiatrist patient with diagnosis migraine either of or tension headache were included. Selected patients evaluated by short form of Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI). Data were analyzed using SPSS-13 and Chi-Square test. Results: The mean age was 11.18±33.29 in women and 34.33±13.7 in men. 96 patients (60%) had tension headache and 64 (41.2%) had migraine. In tension headache, depressed personality (43.8%) and hysterical personality (16.4%) were more common but in migraine headache, depressed personality (48.9%) and paranoid personality (20%) were common but this difference was not significant. Conclusion: This study showed that there is no relation between personality characteristics with tension headach and migraine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There are many controversies about relationship between hernias and connective tissue disorders in children. The aim of this study was to determine the relationship of benign joint hypermobility syndrome (BHJS) with inguinal hernias in children. Methods: This descriptive analytical study involved children of 2-12 years old who were diagnosed with inguinal hernia during 2009-11. Subjects were admitted to pediatric or pediatric surgery wards of hospital affiliated with Isfahan University of Medical Sciences (Iran). Overall, 200 children in two groups of patients with inguinal hernias and controls were included. Beighton score was used for diagnosis of BHJS in the admitted children and the control group. For evaluation of collected data and the relationship of diseases, we used SPSS18 and chi-square test. Findings: The mean Beighton score was 6.2 ± 2.0 in the case and 2.7 ± 2.2 in the control group, i.e. children with inguinal hernias had significantly higher Beighton scores (P < 0.001). Conclusion: Based on this study, BHJS is prevalent in children with inguinal hernias. Therefore, in every patient with inguinal hernias, the presence of concomitant BHJS should also be considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objective: Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is one of the most common gastrointestinal disorders characterized by abdominal pain or discomfort and altered bowel habits. Although IBS etiology is poorly understood, some psychological disturbances and food allergies have been proposed. This study was done to determine the effect of food allergen exculsion on symptoms and quality of life in IBS. Materials and Methods: In this descriptive and anolytical study was done on 100 IBS patients in Tabriz, Iran during 2011. Food allergies of specific origin and effects of non allergic regimens on quality of life, pain severity and disease symptoms were evaluted during one month period. Data were analyzed using SPSS-16, student's t-test, Chi-Square and Fisher's exact tests. Results: Patients age were 31.5±7.2 between 15-43 years. Specific antibodies against allergic foods were detectable in 31 (31%) cases. Penaut showed to induce the highest food allergy in 5 (16.1%) patients. The median disease duration was 4.5±2.6 years in allergic patients while 3.5±2.9 in non allergic group with no significant difference. The changes is quality of life was significant in non allergic regimens after one month in allergic group (P<0.05) while disease symptoms such as mucus defecation and flatulence had no significant changes. Conclusion: This study showed that one month non allergic regimens reduce abdominal pain and improve quality of life in IBS patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objective: The utrine cervical cancer is the third common cancer among women word-wide. Oral contraceptives (OCs) have characterized as one of the possible risk factors for cervical cancer which are daily used by millions of women. The objective of this study was to determine the relationship between utrine cervical carcinoma and oral contraceptives. Materials and Methods: This case - control study was done on 128 patients with utrine cervical cancer as cases and 128 healthy women as controls in Tehran, Iran during 2008. The cases matched with controls according to age, history of abortion, number of deliveries, and social-economical status. Data were analyzed using SPSS-11, student's t-test, Chi-Square, Pearson's correlation and Fisher's exat tests. Results: Significant correlation was observed between utrine cervical cancer and the history of using and duration of oral contraceptives (P<0.05). Eighty-one (66.3%) and 46 (35.9%) of subjects in case and control groups used oral contraceptives, respectively. The possibility of utrine cervical cancer through oral contraceptives consumption was 3.072 (95%CI: 1.05-2.91) and this rate increased to 5.2 times after consuming the oral contraceptives for longer than 8 years. Conclusion: This study showed that the usage of oral contraceptives increase the possibility of utrine cervical cancer by 3 times. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objective: Post pain operative is common and a major complication which lead to numerous dangerous effects in various organs. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of methocarbamol on postoperative pain following cholecystectomy. Materials and Methods: In a randomized, double - blind clinical trail study 60 ASA I, II patient in two group (n=30 in each group) between 30-50 years old and weigh lower of 100kg undergone general anesthesia for cholecystectomy. Elective surgery was selected in Besat Hospital, Sanandaj, Iran during 2008. Both group did not receive premedication and under similar condition of general anesthesia. Interventional group received 500mg Methocarbamol intravenus slowly and the control group received 5ml placebo slowly after operation. The pain score were measured by visual anesthesia scale (VAS) on the 1, 3, 6, 12 and 24 hours after operation and if necessitated narcotics (PRN, VAS>4) were prescribed. Data were analyzed using SPSS-16, ANOVA, Chi-Square and student's t-tests. Results: There were no significant differences between two groups in terms of age, gender. The mean of score pain was lower for interventional group at 6.24 hours after operation (P<0.05). But no significant differences was observed at 1, 3 and 12 hours. The prescribe narcotic in interventional group was lower compared to controls (P<0.05). Conclusion: According to analgesic effects and low prescribe narcotics, it is suggested to use methocarbamol after operative due to analgesic effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Repeated physical examination and radiologic tests are necessary to prevent the complications in patients with thoracic injury. The aim of this study was to determine the cost-benefit of control chest x-ray (CXR) in these patients. Methods: In this prospective clinical trial, two groups of patients with chest trauma were evaluated. In one group, the control CXR every 6 hours was prepared and in the other group, repeated physical examination every 6 hours with only one CXR after 24 hours from admission was done. The patients had blunt or stab chest trauma without pneumothorax or hemothorax in first CXR. Data of age, sex, pneumothorax (simple or tension), hemothorax, lung contusion, hospital stay, mortality and homodynamic abnormality were collected and analyzed using chi-square test at the meaningful level of P < 0.05. Findings: Of 196 patients with mean of age 37.16 ± 17.59 years, 78% were men. There was not any tension pneumothorax or hemodynamic abnormality in two groups. Frequency of simple pneumothorax and hemodynamic abnormality was not different between the two groups (P = 0.39 and P = 1, respectively). It was possible to diagnose pneumothorax with serial physical examination in all patients (3 patients). Conclusion: In patients with chest trauma, repeated CXR can be replaced by repeated physical examination during first 24 hours. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: AIDS is still one of the major global health problems. The number of newly infected cases in most populations including Iranians is rising every year. The best way to prevent the increasing prevalence of the disease is to control it disease through raising the knowledge of people. This study evaluated HIV/AIDS-related knowledge among young couples attending pre-marriage counseling centers in Isfahan, Iran during 2010-11. Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was performed on young couples attending premarriage counseling centers in Isfahan, Iran. A valid and reliable self-administered anonymous questionnaire was distributed among volunteers. Total scores of couples were compared based on their demographic data (age and sex) and education levels. Data was analyzed using chi-square and Kruskal-Wallis tests and analysis of variance (ANOVA) in SPSS18. Findings: Of the 300 studied subjects with the mean age of 24.2 ± 6.3 years, 166 (55.3%) did not have a high school diploma, 83 (27.7%) had a high school diploma, 37 (12.3%) had an associate degree, and 14 (4.7%) had BSc or higher degrees. Among males, 4.7% and 33.7% had respectively good and poor levels of knowledge about AIDS. In contrast, 8.3% and 28.3% of women had respectively good and poor levels of knowledge. Chi- square test showed that women had higher knowledge than men (P = 0.01). There was a direct correlation between education and knowledge levels (P = 0.001). Conclusion: Our results showed age, gender, and education to be correlated with AIDS-related level of knowledge. Therefore, in order to increase the knowledge level, programs need to be designed to cover transmission routes and prevention methods of the disease. The role of mass media, such as broadcasting, should thus be considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objective: Caesarean sections are the most common surgery in obstetrics and gynecology. However, like any other surgical procedures, they have some disadvantages. Nowadays, unfortunately, Caesarean sections are not carried out necessarily to save the mother and/or the baby, and due to excessive applications they have become a problem worldwide. The aim of this study was to determine the related causes of Cesarean delivery in Zanjan. Material and Methods: In this descriptive cross-sectional study, a total of 697 mothers were selected through random sampling. A questionnaire was completed by each participant and the collected data were analyzed using descriptive statistical methods, including chi-square test, Fisher exact, ANOVA, and multivariate logistic analysis. Results: According to our analysis, the recent rate of the Cesarean in Zanjan was about 43%, out of which 43% were elective. The majority of the cases (57.8%), were repeated Cesarean sections and most mothers chose Cesarean because of either fear of pain or for termination of the pregnancy (43.3%). In the present study, the Cesarean section rate correlated significantly with the level of education in mothers (P<0.0001) and family financial status (P=0.01). Conclusion: According to our analysis, promoting public awareness and also efforts towards applying Cesarean sections in only necessary cases could reduce the rate of cesarean in general. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objective: Multiple sclerosis is one of demyelinating disorder of CNS that is an uncommon cause of the sensorineural hearing loss. This study was done to determine the hearing loss in multiple sclerosis patients. Materials and Methods: This case-control study was performed on 60 (44 women, 16 men) multiple sclerosis patients and 38 (27 women, 11 men) normal subjects by pure tone audiometery, otoacustic emissions and auditory brainstem responses in Gilan provine, Iran during 2010-11. Data was analyzed by using SPSS-17, Chi-Square and Fischer tests. Results: 12.5% of case and 3.9% of the control ears had abnormal pure tone audiometery (P<0.05). The frequencies of abnormal HF-pure tone audiometery and two modalities of otoacustic emission did not show any significant differences in two groups. Abnormal autidory brainstem response of ears were observed in 20% and 9.2% of cases and controls, respectively (P<0.05). 20% of case and 9.2% of the control ears had abnormal auditory brainstem response (P<0.05). The absolute latencies of waves I, II and V had not significant differences between two groups. Inter peak latencies of I-III and III-V waves were observed in 10% and 11.7% in cases ears and 1.3% and zero percent in controls, respecticely. 6.7% of cases and 2.6% of control ears had retrocochlear abnormality. Conclusion: Hearing loss detected by pure tone audiometery and auditory brainstem response is more common in multiple sclerosis compared to normal population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: One of the factors effective on tumor cell growth and proliferation is vascular endothelial cell growth factor (VEGF). This factor is also influencing through vascular permeability in the formation of serous fluids such as ascites or pleural effusion. However, detection and differentiation of malignant serous fluids from benign serous fluids have always been a problem. Therefore, the present study aimed to assess diagnostic value and level of VEGF in differentiation of malignant serous fluids from benign serous fluids. Methods: This was a descriptive-analytical case-control study on 92 samples (two 46-member group) from serous fluid (ascites and pleural effusion) in pathology ward of Al-Zahra Hospital through (Enzyme- Linked Immunosorbent Assay) ELISA method. The eligible subjects were divided into two groups including malignant serous fluids (positive cytology) and benign serous fluid (negative cytology) and the VEGF level was examined for the both groups. The data were analyzed through independent t-test and Chi-square test. Findings: In the malignant effusion group there were 22 males and 24 females with mean age of 56.47 ± 14.57 years and in reactive and non-malignant effusion group there were 30 males and 16 females with mean age of 57.95 ± 17.07 years. In the malignant effusion and reactive and non-malignant effusion group, mean VEGF level was 6.61 ± 753.7 and 1.27 ± 143.99 (pg/ml) respectively. In assessing the VEGF level there was a significant difference between VEGF level of group with malignant serous discharge compared with the group with benign serous discharge and VEGF level was higher in the group with malignant serous discharge (P = 0.02). Conclusion: The results of the present study showed that VEGF can be used a biochemical factors in identifying and differentiation of malignant serous fluids (positive cytology) and benign serous fluid (negative cytology). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objective: The metabolic syndrome is a cluster of metabolic disorders that are associated with elevated risk of cardiovascular diseases and type-II diabetes. This study investigated the prevalence of metabolic syndrome among adolescents population in Gorgan, Northern Iran - 2009. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted involving 450 adolescents 15- 17 years, selected through 2 stage cluster randomized sampling from high schools. Anthropometric measurements, blood pressure, fasting blood glucose and lipid profile were assessed. Metabolic syndrome was defined according to NHANES III criteria. Data was analyzed by SPSS-16 software, Chi-Square and logestic regration. Results: The overall metabolic syndrome prevalence was 3.3% (CI 95%:1.8-5.4). More than half of cases (54.6%) had at least 1 or 2 components. High triglyceride level was the most common disorder in both genders (boys 27.6%, girls 52.4%) and then low HDL cholesterol level (17.3%) and central obesity (7.6%) were common among boys and girls respectively. Where as abdominal obesity in boys (0.9%) and hypertension in girls (3.1%) were less common. Conclusion: This study showed that the rate of metabolic syndrome is slightly lower but the obsity in adolescents is higher than other parts of country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objective: Suicide is one of the important causes of death worldwide particularly among 44-15 years. The aim of this study was to survey the prevalency of attempted suicide in Golestan province, North of Iran during 2003-07. Materials and Methods: This descriptive study conducted on 4977 suicide attempted subjects in Golestan province, North of Iran during 2003-07. Data were gathered through a filed questioners. Data was analyzed by SPSS-18 and Chi-Square test. Results: Mean±SD of the subjects was 22.91±7.59 years. The female to male ratio was 1.62. 55.6% of subjects were single. The subjects resided in urban and rural area were 62% and 37.8%, respectively. 61.4% and 27.1% of subjects have finished and un-finished high-school studies. 2% and 0.9% from those attempted sucide were died and referred to specific centers, respectively for further medical follow-up. There was a positive correlation between suicide single status and low educated subjects with P=0.036 and P=0.001 respectively. Conclusion: The findings indicated that the prevalancy of suicide were higher among single, female and those with lower education. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objective: Poor sleep quality is common among hemodialysis patients and can potentially predict morbidity, mortality and quality of life in these patients. On the other hand, hemodialysis patients are encountered with vitamin C deficiency. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of intravenous vitamin C on sleep quality in hemodialysis patients. Materials and Methods: In this double blind randomized clinical trial, 60 qualified hemodialysis patients were gone under investigation in Sari a city located in North of Iran during 2010. Patients randomly allocated in two equal intervention and control groups. The main measured outcome was the Pittsburg sleep quality index (PSQI) which consists of seven components. At the end of each hemodialysis session, Intervention group received vitamin C vial (500mg/5cc) intravenously, three times a week for 8 weeks and control group received normal saline in a same way. Data were collected at pretreatment and after two months of treatment. Data were analyzed by Independent t test, Paired t test, Wilcoxon and Chi-Square tests. Results: The result indicated that the sleep quality improves significantly in vitamin C group but not in control group (P<0.001). Vitamin C caused significant improvement in subjective sleep quality, sleep latency, habitual sleep efficiency and sleep disturbances in intervention group (p<0.05). Also, Global PSQI score of intervention group had a greater improvement than control group. Moreover vitamin C caused significant improvement in subjective sleep quality, sleep latency, habitual sleep efficiency and sleep disturbances in intervention group after treatment (p<0.05). Conclusion: This study showed that intravenous vitamin C can effectively improve sleep quality in hemodialysis patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objective: The safety of teenagers and young are the major factor in developing a community and they are also the major group at risk of behavioural problems. So, this study was performed to evaluate the prevalence of risky behaviours among different university students in Babol, located in Norther of Iran. Materials and Methods: This cross sectional study was carried out in a random sample of 882 Babol university students including medical university, university of engineering and Azad University with roughly equal sampling ratio with respect to university and gender. The data was gathered by a designed questionnaire including demographic characteristics, physical involvement with others (violence), cigarette smoking, drug abuse, physical inactivity, overweight and obesity. In statistical analysis the Chi square test was used to determine the association of risky behaviours with demographic characteristics. Results: The results revealed that in general the prevalence of physical involvement with others (violence) during a recent year was 33.3% current cigarette smoking 13.7%, overweight and obesity 25.6%, physical inactivity 15.3% and drug user during recent year 0.3%. In general, the prevalence of some risky behaviour was more in boys than girls (P<0.001), and it was more in single than married (P<0.001) and in residence of dormitory and rented houses than personal houses (P<0.001) and also in engineering and Azad university in contrast to medical university (P<0.001). For example, the prevalence of cigarette smoking was 25.7% in boys and 3.6% in girls (P<0.001). Conclusion: This study showed a rather high frequency of risky behaviours among students in Babol city in North of Iran. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]