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Aims The unbalanced physical expansion of Ilam City can be attributed to various issues, including regional imbalance, rapid urbanization, the impact of war, fragmented urban management, and inadequate supervision of urban development projects. The aim of this study was to examine the factors that impact the physical development of Ilam City. Methodology This study employed an applied research methodology and was done in Ilam City over the period of 2023-2024. The study instrument employed was a questionnaire developed by the researcher. A compilation of criteria and indicators that impact physical development was made in order to create the questionnaire. Consequently, a survey comprising of 34 questions was created, utilizing a Likert scale with four response alternatives. In order to evaluate the questionnaire’s validity, it was administered to a group of 18 specialists. A comprehensive questionnaire consisting of 5 indexes and 30 components was compiled and thereafter delivered to the inhabitants. The sample size was calculated to be 357 persons using the Cochran formula. The study samples were chosen by the method of simple random sampling. The data were evaluated using statistical methods such as a t-test, Pearson correlation coefficient, and stepwise regression coefficients. Findings The physical development of Ilam City was found to have a substantial correlation with several aspects, including economic, social and cultural, environmental, physical, and managerial factors. The physical evolution of Ilam City was primarily influenced by environmental (natural), economic, managerial, physical, and social and cultural aspects, in that order. Conclusion The physical development of Ilam City has been mostly influenced by environmental variables. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract A total of 25 Ilam street dust specimens were sampled to investigate the possible ecological and health risks of heavy metal(loid)s and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). We found that the average concentrations of heavy metal(loid)s, namely Pb, Zn, Cu, Cr, Cd, Ni, V, and As, were 52, 213, 63, 46, 0.4, 44, 31, and 5 mg/kg, respectively. The average concentration of all heavy metal(loid)s except for Cr and V was several times higher than the baseline values. We evaluated Zn and Pb in the region using the average enrichment factor (EF) and pollution index (PI); the Nemerow integrated pollution index (NIPI) indicated that 76% of the samples had high degrees of pollution. According to principal component analysis (PCA), three principle components are involved in the heavy metal(loid) pollution of Ilam street dust. For example, the pollution sources of Cu, Cr, Cd, and Ni likely originated from anthropogenetic origins, including traffic, tire depreciation, and gasoline use. The sources of Pb and Zn were other anthropogenic activities, such as metal corroding and the combustion of garbage and gases from industries, while V and As were probably from natural sources. The range of sum over 11 PAHs was 167–11,497 μg/kg with a mean of 2242 μg/kg. The concentration of low molecular weight (LMW) PAHs averaged 1471 μg/kg, accounting for 66% of the total PAHs; their sources were mainly associated with combustion and pyrogenic emissions. The PCA also revealed that PAHs mainly originated from burning fossil fuels. The values of RQ∑PAHs (MPCs) and RQ∑PAHs (NCs) were respectively >1 and ≥800, indicating a high ecosystem risk for PAHs. Mean values for RQ∑PAHs (MPCs) and RQ∑PAHs (NCs) were 4 and 1021, respectively, implying that Ilam street dust poses a relatively high ecosystem risk of PAHs. Street dust PAHs’ toxic equivalency quotient (TEQ) varied from 26 to 199 μg/kg. The total cancer risk was 3.92 × 10−4 and 4.06 × 10−4 for adults and children, respectively, indicating that the potential for cancer risk is very high through dust dermal contact and ingestion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To determine inequality and decompose it's in Self-Rated Health (SRH). Method: This population-based cross-sectional study was undertaken on the entire population of the city of Ilam, Iran, in 2023. Multi-stage stratified cluster random sampling with proportion-to-size approach was used to select the participants. Oaxaca-Blinder decomposition technique was used to show the amount of inequity in SRH and to decompose of the gap of SRH between the poor and the rich group of participants. Results: 1370 persons participated in the study. The 59.38% of participants stated good SRH status and just 8.86% of participants had poor SRH status. The results of the Oaxaca-Blinder decomposition revealed a considerable gap (15.87%) in the poor status of SRH between the rich and the poor. A large proportion (89.66%) of this difference was described by explained portion of the model. The results of decomposition showed that economic status was directly responsible for explaining 27.98% of overall inequality gap between rich and poor people. Moreover, hopelessness to future (32.64%), having an underlying disease (18.34%) and difference in the education level (10.71%) were associated with an increase in inequality disfavoring the poor. Conclusion: For people suffering from underlying disease, it is suggested to devise policies to improve access to/and remove healthcare utilization barriers. To address hopelessness to future, it is recommended to carry out further studies to reveal factors which affect it in more details. This can help policy makers to formulate more realistic and evidence-informed policies on order to lessen the current socioeconomic inequity in SRH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Knowledge of the length of hospitalization of patients infected with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), its characteristics, and its related factors creates a better understanding of the impact of medical interventions and hospital capacities. Iran is one of the countries with the most deaths in the world (146,321 total deaths; 5 September 2023) and ranks first among the countries of the Middle East and the EMRO. Analysis of confirmed COVID-19 patients' hospital length of stay in Ilam Province can be informative for decision making in other provinces of Iran. This study was conducted to analyze the survival of COVID-19 patients and the factors associated with COVID-19 deaths in the hospitals of Ilam Province. This is a retrospective cross-sectional study. Data from confirmed COVID-19 cases in Ilam Province were obtained from the SIB system in 2019. The sample size was 774 COVID-19-positive patients from Ilam Province. Measuring survival and risk probabilities in one-week intervals was performed using Cox regression. Most patients were male (55.4%) and 55.3% were over 45 years old. Of the 774 patients, 87 (11.2%) died during the study period. The mean hospital length of stay was 5.14 days. The median survival time with a 95% confidence interval was four days. The probability of survival of patients was 80%, 70%, and 38% for 10, 20, and 30 days of hospital stay, respectively. There was a significant relationship between the survival time of patients with age, history of chronic lung diseases, history of diabetes, history of heart diseases, and hospitalization in ICU (p < 0.05). The risk of dying due to COVID-19 disease was higher among men, older age groups, and patients with a history of chronic lung diseases, diabetes, and heart disease. According to the results, taking preventive measures for elderly patients and those with underlying conditions to prevent the infection of COVID-19 patients is of potential interest. Efficiency in the management of hospital beds should also be considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: Health literacy is recognized as a key determinant of health and is a central focus of public health policy strategies. The present study aimed to assess the health literacy level and identify the factors influencing it among the clients of comprehensive health service centers in Ilam city. Materials and Methods: In 2022, a descriptive-analytical study was conducted to examine 429 clients aged 18-65 years who visited comprehensive selected health service centers in Ilam city. For adults the data collection tool used was the Helia health literacy questionnaire. Sampling was conducted in nine clusters, with each cluster consisting of 50 samples. The data was analyzed using SPSS software, which included descriptive statistical tests, Pearson’s correlation coefficient, and one-way analysis of variance, with a significance level set at 0.05. Results: Based on the results, the average health literacy score was 80.16 ± 16.50. In terms of health literacy, 18.97% of people had inadequate or not very adequate health literacy, while 44.39% of the participants had excellent health literacy. The average health literacy scores across different dimensions are as follows: access to health information 65.74, comprehension of information 81/81, reading information skills 12.74, evaluation of information 05.75, and decision making and behavior based on information 61.92. A significant relationship was observed between job, education, and income variables and various dimensions of average health literacy (p-value≤0.001). However, there was no significant relationship between general health literacy and age, gender, and place of residence (P≤0.05). Conclusion: The results of the present study demonstrate that vulnerable groups have significantly lower literacy levels. Furthermore, given the impact of education on enhancing people’s health literacy, it is advisable to leverage mass media, social networks, and educational centers to enhance literacy levels as a potential factor in community health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In this study, five types of popular herbal distillates including licorice, fennel, orange blossom, lavender, and cinnamon were purchased from the supply level stores in the city of Ilam by cluster sampling method and analyzed for the amount of ethanol and methanol. Materials and Methods: In the first step, the samples of herbal distillates were taken for testing. In addition, analytical grade ethanol and methanol were purchased from Merck Company and used as controls. Dates of production and expiry of each sample were separately checked and recorded. The samples of every herb distillate were kept in their original containers and used for testing. The names and brands of the manufacturing plants were mentioned as A, B, C, etc., in view of the ethical aspects of the research. The concentration of methanol and ethanol in the products of each company was analyzed by gas chromatography (GC) and each sample was measured five times and the mean value was reported. Results: On the basis of the obtained results, the mean concentrations of ethanol and methanol in lavender distillate were 7.153 and 17.002 ppm, respectively. The mean ethanol and methanol levels in orange blossom distillate were 164.2551 and 64.2472 ppm, respectively. The average ethanol and methanol content in cinnamon distillate were 11.9482 and 12.769 ppm, respectively. The mean ethanol and methanol contents in fennel distillate were 30.8897 and 7.5103 ppm, respectively. The mean ethanol and methanol contents in licorice distillate were 4.1524 and 38.3075 ppm, respectively. The results of this study showed that herbal distillates have ethanols and particularly methanols. Conclusion: Herbal distillates that contain methanol and ethanol can be toxic, especially to pregnant women, if taken over a long period of time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exposure to potentially hazardous trace elements (PHTEs) through drinking water consumption can endanger the health of the consumer. In this study, the concentration of Aluminium (Al), Iron (Fe), Copper (Cu) and Manganese (Mn) among 288 water samples were collected (March to February 2016) from water distribution networks of Ilam city was measured using an atomic absorption spectrophotometer (AAS) instrument and the health risk was estimated using the Monte Carlo Simulation (MCS) method. The rank order of PHTEs in the drinking water was Cu (0.200 ± 0.200 mg/l)> Fe (0.096 ± 0.094 mg/l)> Al (0.040 ± 0.060 mg/l) > Mn (0.017 ± 0.020 mg/l).The rank order of PHTEs based on the non-carcinogenic risk for the adult consumers were Cu (0.250) > Mn (0.0069) > Fe (0.0067) >Al (0.0027) while the corresponding values for children wereCu (0.310) > Mn (0.0087) > Fe (0.0084) >Al (0.0034).The percentile 95% total target hazard quotient (TTHQ) correlated with the investigated PHTEs in the children and adults were equal to 0.3205 and 0.2600, respectively. Therefore, the exposed population is at the acceptable non-carcinogenic risk due to the relatively low concentration of PHTEs in tap drinking water in Ilam city. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Improper use of alluvial aquifers and declining water levels in these aquifers have led to significant attention to the search for other groundwater sources in karst areas and hard formations. Iran is one of the countries that has a very high percentage of karst in the world and the study and tracing of karst are very important in this country. In this research, eight effective factors in karstification are identified and categorized into two groups and the relevant information layers are prepared. The first group includes average annual rainfall, type of geological formations, the density of fractures, and density of the fracture site. The second group, which is of secondary importance, includes the average annual temperature, the density of canals, slope, and type of vegetation. After preparing the information layers, quantitative parameters based on fuzzy logic and qualitative parameters were standardized by the rasterization method. The importance and weight of each of the effective factors were determined from two methods viz. Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) and the Fuzzy Hierarchical Analysis Process (FAHP). After multiplying the standard maps with their respective weights, they were overlaid, and finally, karst potential maps were generated. Maps were generated from the two weighting methods based on the subsurface and surface hydrogeological-geomorphological diagrams. Karst features such as Karen, dissolution cavities, depressions, caves, dry valleys, reservoir rocks of springs and water exploitation wells, and Calcareous limbs were ascertained, which indicates that the results of the FAHP method are more consistent with the existing conditions in the region. The final map was divided into five classes in terms of the karst potential, viz. very high, high, medium, low, and no potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The possibility of suspending radioactive particles during dust storms from Iraq and entering Iran has always been a concern. The aim of this study was to investigate the particulate matter concentration during dusty days and the effect of dust storm on the irradiation rate in the atmosphere of the city of Ilam (capital of Ilam province). The concentration of particulate matter and radiation dose in the study area were monitored between March 2012 and February 2013 (1 year). Sampling was done every 6 days for periodical days. For the dusty days, samples were gathered according to the forecast information of dust plum entrance by the meteorological organisation. The results showed that the average and standard deviation of PM10, PM2.5, and PM1 concentrations in the periodic sampling (every 6 days) were 76.9 ± 57.1, 17.5 ± 10.5, and 8 ± 4 μg/m3, respectively, and in the dusty days were286 ± 164.8, 54.4 ± 30.3, and 14.6 ± 6.5 μg/m3, respectively. During the study period, the concentration of PM10in 35 days were more than 150 μg/m3 (Dusty day), and June with 13 days was the highest number dusty days. The average radiation dose in normal and dusty days were 0.152 and 0.150 μSv/hr, respectively. The results of Mann–Whitney's test showed that there was no significant difference between measured radiation in normal and dusty days (P > 0.05). Spearman test showed that there was no significant correlation between radiation doses and PM (PM10, PM2.5, and PM1) (P > 0.05). The results of the study show that dust storms and its concentration intensity did not affect the amount of radiation in the Ilam atmosphere. Because of the high density of the uranium element and its rapid sedimentation near the emission sources, the entry of this contamination related to dust storms to Ilam has not been proven. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: The purpose of this study was to investigate the attitude of social network users of Ilam province regarding the vaccination of Covid-19 in 2021. Materials and Methods: In the present descriptive study, 739 users of social networks in Ilam province were selected by convenience sampling. The research-made questionnaire was completed online. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and univariate and multivariate regression. Results: The mean attitude score was at a weak level in 47 people (6.36%), moderate in 619 people (83.6%), and good in 73 people (9.88%). There was a significant relationship between age, education, job, and attitude (p <0.05). There was no significant relationship between gender, marital status, place of habitat, and attitude (p> 0.05) Conclusion: Most of the users of social networks had a moderate level of attitude about vaccinations. Considering the possibility of the next waves of covid-19, planning to improve people's attitudes is necessary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the flagellated protozoan Trichomonas vaginalis. Little information is available on the epidemiology and genetic diversity of T. vaginalis in Ilam City, southwestern Iran. A descriptive cross-sectional investigation was carried out between July 2017 and December 2018 on the suspected women patients referred to eight gynecology clinics of Ilam City for probable Trichomonas infection. They were undergone a set of clinical, parasitological, and molecular examinations. During clinical consultation, posterior vaginal fornix secretions and urine samples were gathered from the participants. For the reasons such as physical conditions and cultural and religious constraints, most of participating women, especially young girls due to their virginity, preferred to give urine samples instead of vaginal discharge. The presence of Trichomonas was diagnosed by microscopic examination and molecular detection using conventional PCR targeting ITS1-rDNA. A total of 1765 suspected individuals were examined clinically via vaginal secretions (495 specimens) and urine samples (1270 specimens). Of them, 21 (1.18%) cases, including 13 vaginal secretions and 8 urine samples, were positive for Trichomonas infection by microscopy. Slightly more than half of the patients (11/21, 52.4%) complained of vulvar itching, burning, and frequent urination. Cervical lesions, patchy erythema, and vaginal discharge were recorded in 28.6%, 23.8%, and 19% of the patients respectively. All patients with positive microscopic identification were confirmed by amplification of 450-bp fragment of ITS1-rDNA. Phylogenetic analysis revealed a high rate of genetic homogeneity in which all our isolates together with homologous sequences from China, Philippines, Austria, and USA were clustered within the same clade. A statistically significant relationship was recorded between the patients positive for trichomoniasis and the presence of chronic disease (e.g., diabetes, immune system deficiency). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Suicide is increasingly being recognized as a global public health concern, but it is still treated as a neglected burden in Nepal. Case-control study on suicide from Nepal is very rare. Thus, a community-based matched case-control study was conducted at Ilam District to identify different stressors associated with Nepalese suicidal victims with appropriate samples of 64 cases which were matched for age group (± 2 years) and area of residence with 128 controls (1:2 ratio). Data was collected through suicide survivors and close neighbors of suicide victims. Intimate partner violence was an independent risk factor for committing suicide (OR (95% CI) = 5.33 (1.41–20.10), P = 0.013). A conditional logistic regression identified two strong stressors of suicide: depression (OR (95% CI) = 10.53 (3.11–35.66), P < 0.001) and substance dependence (OR (95% CI) = 16.38 (4.23–63.35), P < 0.001). This is the first community-based case-control study to report stressors of suicide from eastern Nepal. An integrated counseling and public awareness center needs to be established by the Nepal Government at Ilam District addressing those significant stressors. Furthermore, the findings also have implications for formulating national health policy to be implemented in vulnerable districts in order to decrease risks of suicide in Nepal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: COVID-19 is the last global threat which WHO confirmed it as a pandemic on March 11, 2020. In the Middle East, Iran was the first country where the SARS-Cov-2 was detected. The epidemiological and economic challenges of Iran make this country a particularly relevant subject of study. In the current study, we aimed to evaluate the clinical, radiological and laboratory findings in hospitalized COVID-19 confirmed cases in Ilam province, western of Iran. METHODS: Overall, 2204 hospitalized RT-PCR confirmed patients with COVID-19 were considered in this study. Electronic medical records, including clinical symptoms, radiological images, laboratory findings, and the comorbidities of patients with COVID-19 were collected and analyzed. In addition, the medication regimens used in these patients were evaluated. The patients were classified in discharged and died groups according to their outcomes. Then, clinical, radiological and laboratory findings as well as treatment regimens and underlying diseases were compared in these two groups. RESULTS: Among the patients, 1209 (54.85%) were male and 995 (45.14%) were female. Pneumonia, dyspnea and cough, were the most common clinical data in both discharged and died groups. Among the comorbidities, COPD, and cancer were significantly more common in the dead patients than in the living. The results of laboratory tests showed that blood creatinine, BUN, ESR, Na+, WBC, and neutrophil count have increased in deceased group compared to the survivors. However, the lymphocyte count decreased in deceased patients. The evaluation of radiographs demonstrated that there were significant correlations between bilateral pneumonia, ground glass opacity, bilateral patchy shadowing, and pleural effusion with death. CONCLUSION: The current investigation indicated the special profile of COVID-19 in west of Iran. Discharged and dead patients with COVID-19 had distinct clinical, radiological and laboratory features, which were separated by principal component analysis. Identifying these characteristics of the disease would translate into the implementation of practical measures to improve results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Persons with disabilities can have physical, mental, intellectual, or sensory impairments which can hinder their social participation. Despite Sustainable Development Goals call for "universal access to sexual and reproductive health (SRH)", women with disabilities (WwDs) continue to experience barriers to access SRH services in Nepal. This study evaluated factors affecting the utilization of SRH services among WwDs in Ilam district, Nepal.Methods: A mixed-method study with 384 WwDs of reproductive age was conducted in Ilam district, eastern Nepal. Quantitative data were collected using a structured questionnaire. Relationships between utilization of SRH services and associated factors were explored using multivariate logistic regression analysis. Qualitative data were collected from focus groups with female community health volunteers and interviews with WwDs, health workers and local political leaders. They were audio-recorded, translated and transcribed into English and were thematically analyzed.Results: Among 384 respondents (31% physical; 7% vision,16% hearing, 7% voice&speech,12% mental/psychosocial, 9% intellectual, 18% multiple disabilities), only 15% of them had ever utilized any SRH services. No requirement (57%) and unaware of SRH services (24%) were the major reasons for not utilizing SRH services. A majority (81%) of them reported that the nearest health facility was not disability-inclusive (73%), specifically referring to the inaccessible road (48%). Multivariate analysis showed that being married (AOR = 121.7, 95% CI: 12.206-1214.338), having perceived need for SRH services (AOR = 5.5; 95% CI: 1.419-21.357) and perceived susceptibility to SRH related disease/condition (AOR = 6.0; 95% CI:1.978-18.370) were positively associated with the utilization of SRH services. Qualitative findings revealed that illiteracy, poor socioeconomic status, and lack of information hindered the utilization of SRH services. WwDs faced socioeconomic (lack of empowerment, lack of family support), structural (distant health facility, inaccessible-infrastructure), and attitudinal (stigmatization, bad behaviour of health care providers, perception that SRH is needed only for married) barriers to access SRH services.Conclusions: Utilization of SRH services among WwDs was very low in Ilam district, Nepal. The findings of this study warrant a need to promote awareness-raising programs to WwDs and their family members, sensitization programs to health service providers, and ensure the provision of disability-inclusive SRH services in all health facilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to compare and analyze the pattern of energy consumption and greenhouse gases emission in different sizes of walnut orchards in Ilam region. The average of total energy requirement was estimated to be 65334.82 MJ/ha. Diesel fuel, irrigation water and machinery with 57.4, 12.55 and 10.65 percent, respectively, were the most consumed energy inputs in walnut production. Energy efficiency and productivity weres estimated to be 1.05 and 0.04 kg per MJ, respectively. The amount of greenhouse gas emissions for walnut production was calculated as 2496.5 kg of CO2 per hectare. The three inputs of diesel fuel, animal manure and nitrogen fertilizer with 73.62%, 16.82% and 2.92%, had the highest environmental pollution in walnut production. Positive regression coefficients were obtained from the Cobb-Douglas function for human labor inputs, machinery, diesel fuel, chemical pesticides and the regression coefficients of chemical fertilizer and irrigation inputs were negative. The results of econometric estimation and sensitivity analysis of walnut production inputs showed that by increasing one megajoule per hectare in energy inputs of human labor, machinery, diesel fuel, chemical fertilizer, animal manure, irrigation, chemical pesticides, electricity and pruning, yield increases by 26%, 03%, 001%, 004%, 36%, 2.78% and 0.16 kg/ha respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Trichomonas vaginalis (T. vaginalis) is a sexually transmitted protozoan parasite and the causative agent of trichomoniasis. The genetic characterization of T. vaginalis isolates shows notable genetic variation in this parasite. In the present study, we aimed to identify the T. vaginalis genotypes based on analyzing of actin gene in women specimens referred to health centers of Ilam city, southwest Iran. Methods: A total of 1765 female samples were collected from gynecology clinics in the city of Ilam. DNA was extracted from positive samples and nested polymerase chain reaction (Nested PCR) was used to amplify the actin gene. Then, partial sequencing and genotyping of the actin gene was performed. A phylogenetic tree was drawn using the detected genotypes of T. vaginalis and reference sequences. Results: Twenty-one of the 1765 urine and vaginal samples were positive for T. vaginalis. All infected individuals were married and their age in years was between 25 to 34. Further, the majority of infected women had cervical lesions, patchy erythema, and white color discharge. According to sequencing analysis, the isolates were identified as genotype G (n= 8) and genotype E (n= 2). Conclusions: From the collected samples, we were able to distinguish at least two genotypes (G and E) of T. vaginalis. However, lesser is known about these genotypes in the city of Ilam. Further studies with a higher number of isolates should be performed in order to understand the implications of these results in this region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zagros forests have the greatest impact on soil and water protection in western Iran. Despite this, a significant part of these forests, especially in Ilam province, have suffered a lot due to the phenomenon of oak decline. The first and most fundamental thing a person must know when combating this issue is the distribution of these areas in forests. Therefore, using the parameters affecting the decline in the forests of Ilam province and based on fuzzy logic, a map of susceptible to oak decline areas was prepared. In this study, the parameters of temperature and precipitation, slope, aspect, altitude, distance from farmlands, roads and forest density were selected as effective parameters and fuzzy gamma overlap method was used. The results showed that more than 77% of the oak forests in the province are highly and extremely susceptible to the decline. This confirms the need for rapid action to plan and protect these forests. In addition, the fuzzy method is proposed, which is considered as a fast and efficient method in preparing such maps for other areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The topic of climate change and the dangers that lie ahead is part of the debate in land management. The dynamics of global change and the sovereign approach of global governments have opened new perspectives on land management issues. One of the hidden challenges in this regard is the increasing risk of the occurrence of floods. The purpose of this study was to undertake metric or measurement model as a spatial basis unit to predict flood occurrence. In the present article, in line with using MikeUrban 2019 software, a wide range of tools and quantitative processing steps were used in accordance with the research objectives. In order to predict floods, the past incident factors were studied, namely a review of the principles and operational indicators related to each parcel using the OLI sensor images of Landsat 8 satellite in the year 2020 through the integrated interpretation method and an examination of the basic map of Ilam city in wet seasons (autumn, winter, and spring). Then, the city coverage map was prepared in two uses, i.e., False Color (Urban) and Land / Water. Next, Google Earth images were used to determine the accuracy and precision of the coverage maps. By combining four selected measures with the highest spatial correlation in 50 random points of the city, hexagonal measures with optimal areas were selected and spatial patterns were analyzed. According to the results, in the actual event (1), eight spatial measures with an area of 68 hectares and coverage of 1.5% of the entire city are at risk of flood. In events 0.8 and 0.9, 19 measures with an area of 170 hectares, 3.6% of the land use coverage of the area, are at potential risk. While there is a high correlation between flood event and type of measure, amount and direction of slope, as well as density and width of road network on one side and drainage network on the other side, in high events (1-8), 28 measures in the residential uses in the detailed design scale with an area of 76.5 hectares, barren and enclosed uses with an area of 70.55 hectares, roads network with an area of 29.75 hectares, and parks and green spaces with 17 hectares were identified as the uses targeted by the flood danger. Among all risky user groups, 29.5% were identified in the newly built group, 44.5% in the maintainable group, and 18% in the decayed urban environment group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rapid growth of cities has brought about fundamental changes in the lives of residents. The problems in the cities show the lack of sustainability indicators in them. Therefore, the livability indexes are very important to study them. The main purpose of this paper is to identify and classify the factors affecting the livability of Ilam City using interpretive structural modeling technique. The present study is a descriptive survey in terms of applied purpose and the data collection tool is a questionnaire. By reviewing the literature and content analysis and Delphi technique, 16 indicators affecting the livability of Ilam City were identified, and then the internal relationships between them were examined using the ISM method. Then, the type of variables was determined according to the impact on other variables. The results showed that the city of Ilam is classified into six levels based on the factors affecting the livability and the five factors such as fair distribution of infrastructure facilities and services, adequate housing, having a suitable job and income, the amount of goods and services, proper quality of roads and streets with respectively are considered to be the most influential variables of livability in Ilam City. As a result, each plan or action to start and improve the livability of Ilam City must pay attention to the key and basic role of these factors. Accordingly, the first general dimensions affecting the livability of Ilam City include economic dimensions and in the later stages, environmental dimensions and social dimensions. Furthermore, none of the enablers were in the autonomous group according to MICMAC analysis, which would show the importance of all enablers in the livability of Ilam City. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Problem Statement: It is necessary to evaluate different elements of the Arbaeen Pilgrimage event (with a religious tourism perspective) in its different directions because this evaluation will lead to the proper allocation of resources. This event can be one of the main forces influencing the economic improvement and development of Ilam province. On the other hand, today, value chain management is considered as one of the infrastructure foundations of business implementation in the world. Objective: This study aimed to investigate and identify value chain business opportunities of the Arbaeen Imam Hussein (AS) Pilgrimage event in Ilam province. Research Method: The present research was an applied study and its method was descriptiveanalytical. The method of collecting information was field data collection method. The statistical population of this study included all people who were somehow working on Arbaeen route (Mehran-Kermanshah) in Ilam province. Using Cochran's formula, 385 individuals were selected and surveyed by stratified random sampling. In this study, a researcher-made questionnaire was used to survey the field data. The face validity of the questionnaire and its reliability were confirmed by Cronbach's alpha coefficient (0.854). In this study, exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis models and related software such as SPSS and Amos were used for data analysis. Results: The results of exploratory factor analysis showed that there were five general business opportunities for investment in the development of the supply chain of the Arba'een Pilgrimage in Ilam province. Also, the results of the confirmatory model showed that, in general, economic-commercial reconstruction opportunity (0.39), regional functionality opportunity (0.225), transportation opportunity (0.362), cultural-religious opportunity (0.552), and location brand opportunity (0.44) were able to explain 82% of the variance of the dependent variable of the study. Innovation: Analyzing the business opportunities of the value chain of the Arba'een Pilgrimage is the innovation of this study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Suicide is a preventable social harm in the field of health. The present study aimed to design a prediction model for suicide incidence based on Box-Jenkins model in Ilam province. Method: Using a retrospective method all completed and attempted suicide data were collected during 1993-2013. Then, using the autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) model, the time series analysis of the Box-Jenkins model was conducted to predict suicide status in the coming years (2014-2015). Results: According to the actual results obtained from the suicide data in 2014, a total of 1078 suicides were recorded and compared to the predicted results, according to the fitted model of the time series, which showed the selected model predicted 931 suicide cases, showing 86% accuracy of prediction. The series' prediction indicated 931 suicides in 2014 with a negative growth rate of 25.3% compared to 2013 and 969 suicide cases in 2015 with a positive growth rate of 3.93% compared to 2014. Conclusion: The results of this study showed the designed model provides a high diagnostic value to predict suicide rates. These types of models can help to predict suicide in future and plan to control and prevent suicide attempts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted to evaluate the incidence rate as well as demographic and clinical characteristics of Cutaneous Leishmaniasis (CL) cases from 2014 to 2017 in Ilam province. In this registry-based descriptive study, the information from 4697 treated patients, who were diagnosed with CL from 2014 to 2017 in Ilam province and enrolled in this study, was used. Data were analyzed using SPSS software version 22. The incidence rate of CL in the years of 2014, 2015, 2016, and 2017 was 269.6, 244.4, 182.7 and 133.4 per 100,000, respectively, that indicating a downward trend in the rate of disease (p<0.001). Mehran and Dehloran counties had highest incidence rate (1208.1 and 227.3 per 100,000, respectively). The results of the present study indicating the high incidence rate of CL in Ilam province. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Problem Statement: Urban parks are an essential part of city's landscapes and their existence is necessary for citizen's health. Therefore, achieving spatial justice requires urban planners to allocate sufficient amounts of these spaces for cities and provide equal access of all residences to the parks. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to analyze the availability of urban parks, distribution of these spaces and their accessibility in the city of Ilam. Research Method: The research is applied in nature and has analytical-evaluation method. The research data were documentary and included GIS shape files of Ilam land use and statistical blocks of 2016 population censuses. Descriptive statistics and buffering techniques in GIS were used for data analysis. Results: Findings showed that Ilam is much lower than the set standards so that only 2% of its surface area is covered with parks and per capita urban park is only 2-5 m2. Also, the distribution of these spaces in the city is not balanced so that the concentration of these spaces in the northern half of the city is far greater than the south and the center of the city. While one-third of the city's area and one-third of the city's population, which are mainly in the southern parts of the city, are not in the coverage area of parks, they are overlapping in some northern parts to even nine coverage areas. The difference in ‘per capita access to parks’ across the city is about 10 times. Innovation: The index of ‘per capita access’ in analyzing accessibility is a new method that it has not been used in research in Iran so far. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Occupational stress with the physical, chemical, biological, and ergonomic hazards is among the five main risks in the workplace. One of the most common techniques used for assessing occupational stress is the demand-control model developed by Karasek. This study was aimed to determine occupational stress and associated burnout based on Demand--Control Model among EMS personnel in Ilam. This cross-sectional study was carried out on 72 of Ilam emergency medical services center in 2016. Occupational stress was assessed by the Persian version of Job Content Questionnaire (P-JCQ) and the occupational burnout was assessed by the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI) in emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and reduced personal accomplishment levels. Descriptive statistics and multiple logistic regression were applied for data analysis via SPSS software version 21. Mean and standard deviation score for decision-making freedom, psychological demands, social support, physical demands, and job insecurity dimensions were (70.87±7.99), (35.18±4.84), (23.64±6.33), (16.30±2.86), (9.1± 4.65), respectively. About 27.3% of personnel reported their job active, 30.3% passive, 22.7% high strain, and 19.7% low strain. A comparison of the relationship between occupational stress and associated burnout showed a significant relationship between the decision-making freedom dimension and depersonalization level (P<0.05). Based on the results, it can be concluded that the majority of personnel reported low psychological demands and low control. In such situation, the probability of mental disorders is increased. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Occupational stress with the physical, chemical, biological, and ergonomic hazards is among the five main risks in the workplace. One of the most common techniques used for assessing Occupational stress is demand-control model developed by Karasek. This study aimed to determine of occupational stress and associated burnout Based on Demand-Control Model among EMS personnel in Ilam. Methods: This cross-sectional study was carried out on 72 of Ilam emergency medical services center in 2016. Occupational stress was assessed by The Persian version of Job Content Questionnaire (P-JCQ) and Occupational burnout was assessed by the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI) in emotional exhaustion, depersonalization and reduced personal accomplishment levels. Descriptive statistics and multiple logistic regression were applied for data analysis by SPSS software. Results: Mean and standard deviation score for decision-making freedom, psychological demands, social support, physical demands and job insecurity dimensions were (70.87±7.99), (35.18±4.84), (23.64±6.33), (16.30±2.86), (9.1± (4.65), respectively. About 27.3% of personnel reported their job active, 30.3% passive, 22.7% high strain, and 19.7% low strain. Comparison of the relationship between occupational stress and associated burnout showed a significant relationship between the decision-making freedom dimension and depersonalization level (P<0.05). Conclusion: Based on the results, it should that most of the personnel reported low psychological demands and low control. In such situation, the probability of mental disorders is increased. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Long- term exposure to street dust because of the potential toxicity of heavy metals can cause harmful effects on the human's health by inhalation, ingestion and dermal contact. In this study, 25 dust samples were collected from the sidewalks of the main streets of Ilam and analyzed by inductively coupled spectroscopy (ICP- OES) method. The mean concentration of the studied metals was: Pb (58.80), Zn (213.24), Cu (63.12), Cr (45.84), Cd (0.37), Ni (43.73) V (30.92) and As (5.00) (mg / kg). Based on the average value of the potential ecological risk (Er), the heavy metals of Pb, Zn, Cu, Cr, Ni and V had a low ecological risk and Cd showed a moderate one. The highest non- carcinogenic risk (HQ) in children and adults was related to As through ingestion and Cr through the dermal contact pathway; on the other hand, the lowest amount was due to the Cd via the inhalation. Cumulative non- carcinogenic hazard (HI) of all heavy metals in the street dust have been found to be higher for children rather than adults. In both age groups, Cr and Pb had the highest and lowest risk of carcinogenicity (RI), respectively. The obtained results, therefore, indicate that the main source of heavy metals in the study area is anthropogenic sources such as traffic, industrial facilities and fossil fuels burning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Skin cancers are the most common malignancies in Iran. According to the statistics, skin cancer is the most prevalent cancer in Ilam city. This study is conducted to evaluate skin cancer coping of farmers in rural areas of Ilam city. Methods: This is a cross‐sectional study. Samples were collected by multistage random sampling. The required data were collected by a researcher‐made questionnaire from 248 farmers in rural areas of Ilam city. Questions were based on the protection motivation theory, and they were related to the subscales of response efficacy, self‐efficacy, and response costs. Collected data were analyzed by SPSS software version 16. Results: Results of this study indicated that efficacy and perceived self‐efficacy in farmers were low and response cost was high. The efficacy and perceived self‐efficacy were high in 18.1% and 4.8% of farmers, respectively, and only 4.4% of them had low response costs, in association with protective behaviors. Regarding coping appraisal status also results showed that 204 people of farmers (82.3%) were unacceptable, one person (0.4%) was in the borderline, and 43 people (17.3%) were acceptable. There was a statistically significant association between coping appraisal status and education level and also income amount (P < 0.001) but there was no statistically significant association between coping appraisal status and family size (P > 0.670). Conclusion: The founding proved that a coping appraisal is a beneficial approach for predicting cognitive determinants of skin cancer behavior among rural farmers. The most farmers have been the low level of coping appraisal (82.3% were unacceptable). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Skin cancer, the melanoma type of which causes high mortality, is the most common malignancy in Iran and all over the world. UV is the most important cause of the incidence of this disease. This study evaluates the frequency of different types of cancer and their trajectory in Ilam province from 2012 to 2011. Materials and Methods: This analytical–descriptive study covered and evaluated all skin cancer patients who were registered in Ilam Province Cancer Registry during 20002 to 2011. Required information of each individual patient, such as age, sex, residence, pathological type of skin cancer, the location of the incidence of the disorder, and the year, was collected and studied. Findings: Out of total 347 cases, 240 cases (69.2%) were diagnosed with basal cell carcinoma (BCC), 63 cases (18.2%) with squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), 16 cases (4.6%) with malignant melanoma (MM), 8 cases (2.3%) with metastatic cancer, and 20 cases (37.7%) with other skin cancers. Mean age of patients was 62/42 ± 16/11 years, and the majority of them (37.7%) were men and lived in the city. Face was the most common place of the incidence of this disease (81.6%) and hand was the least common one (1.7%). The rate of incidence of cancer has experienced considerable growth in men and a slight decrease in the case of women between 2002 and 2011 in Ilam. Conclusion: According to the results of this study, the rate of skin cancer has increased among men during the studied period; thus, necessary measures are required to prevent and reduce the incidence of this disease, especially in people who are exposed to the sun's ultraviolet rays because of their jobs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Diabetes mellitus is the most common metabolic disease around the world. The present study aims at studying hemoglobin A1C (HbA1C) and vitamin D serum levels in diabetic patients. Materials and Methods: A descriptive study was conducted on 102 diabetic patients presenting to the diabetic clinic of a tertiary care hospital in West of Iran in 2016 (Shahid Mostafa Khomeini Hospital of Ilam city). The data collected were inserted into the SPSS‑20 software, and it was then analyzed by using the relevant statistical tests. For describing the quantitative variables, mean and standard deviation were used. Moreover, for describing the qualitative variables, number and percentage were applied. The mean serum levels of HbA1C and vitamin D were compared for different variables using the Chi‑square and ANOVA. Results: There is a positive and statistically significant relationship between the HbA1C and fasting blood sugar (FBS). Moreover, there is a statistically significant relationship between the serum level of vitamin D with smoking and body mass index (BMI). There is also an inverse linear relationship between vitamin D with HbA1C, FBS, BMI, and disease duration. The relationship between HbA1C with FBS and disease duration is a linear direct one. Their relationship between HbA1C and BMI is an inverse linear one, yet not significant. Conclusion: Given the role of this vitamin in secretion and the effect of insulin, it seems useful to monitor the serum level of vitamin D in a diabetic patient and prescribe its supplements if necessary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The purpose of this study was to assess the contrast perception of obstacles in a tunnel entrance which was placed in Ilam Province, Iran. Methods: An obstacle with the reflection coefficient of 20% was mounted at the entrance of thetunnel and then, the car was placed near the tunnel entrance and the intrinsic luminance of the road (Lr,intrinsic) and obstacle (Lo,intrinsic) were measured inside the car using the luminance meter. Results: Intrinsic luminance of obstacle and road at the entrance of the tunnel were measured as 41 and 17 cd/m2, respectively. The contrast perception of obstacle in deriver's eyes and in the safe stopping distance (SSD) from the tunnel entrance was determined as 2.79 cd/m2. At the entrance of the studied tunnel, the contrast perception of obstacles with the reflection coefficient of 20% was lower than the minimum contrast perception (28%) recommended by International Commission on Illumination. Conclusion: The main conclusion that can be drawn from it, is that this obstacle in the SSD from the tunnel entrance cannot be conceived by the drivers, which may lead to higher rate of road traffic crashes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Optimism is a tendency towards life and its events. It can affect health via the promotion of social relationships. Aim: This study aimed at investigating optimism, communication skills, and its related factors in midwifery students. Materials and Methods: This descriptive-analytic study was conducted during September to December, 2016. Participants were 115 midwifery students from Ilam University of Medical Sciences who were enrolled into this study through census sampling. Data were collected using demographic characteristics, communication skills, and life-orientation questionnaires. Data were analysed using descriptive and analytical statistics in SPSS version 16. Results: The mean score of communication skills and optimism was 108.9±10.9 and 13.9±3.5, respectively. Pearson's correlation coefficient showed that there was a direct correlation between communication skill and optimism scores (r=0.477, p<0.001). Analytical statistical analysis showed a direct relation between age and communication scores (p=0.01) and there was a significant relation in the mean score of communication skills in married people than in single ones (p=0.02). Also, there was a significant correlation between optimism score and the level of awareness of the field of study (p<0.001). Conclusion: In this study, the level of communication skills in midwifery students in Ilam University of Medical Sciences, Iran was moderate and comprehensive training is needed to improve these skills. The level of optimism of life in most midwifery students was relatively good, but more studies are suggested in this regard. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Staphylococcus aureus is known to be responsible for nosocomial infections, and the typing method was useful in managing the reservoir of bacteria. The main aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of S. aureus in the nares and hands of nurses working in Imam Khomeini hospital, Ilam, Iran, as well as to determine the clonal relatedness, antimicrobial susceptibility profiles, different virulence, and resistance determinants among these isolates. The evolution of mupirocin activity in the eradication of methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) and methicillin-susceptible S. aureus (MSSA) colonization in the nares of the healthcare workers in Ilam, Iran, was also determined in this study.Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 80 nurses, auxiliary nurses, and service workers from Imam Khomeini Hospital were enrolled. MRSA, antibiotic susceptibility, and virulence determinants were evaluated. Then, the isolates were subjected to pulsed field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) and Staphylococcal cassette chromosome mec typing. Results: Our results demonstrated that 23% of isolates were MRSA. PFGE results demonstrated that pulsotypes A (3 out of 30; 10%) and J (3 out of 30; 10%), pulsotypes E (2 out of 30; 6.7%), M (2 out of 30; 6.7%), P(2 out of 30; 6.7%), and V (2 out of 30; 6.7%) were the most predominant pulsotypes, respectively. Conclusion: We cannot give conclusive suggestions about the correlation between nasal carriage and infections, but we suggest the monitoring of all healthcare workers annually, decontamination of their noses by using mupirocin and other antistaphylococcal agents, and also the washing of their hands at least every 2 h. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Toxocara is one of the common intestinal nematodes in dogs and cats and is the agent of tissue migratory larvae in humans. Customarily, the prevalence of human toxocariasis hovers around 15.8% in Iran. Furthermore, other research outcomes demonstrated a tendency for an outbreak of toxocariasis in Iran. Therefore, we carried out a cross-sectional study and assessed the seroprevalence of toxocariasis humans in Ilam Province, western of Iran. A total of 539 serum samples were collected between September 2017 and March 2018 from patients referred to the Health Centers of Ilam province, Iran. Serum samples were investigated for the presence of Toxocara using IgG antibodies, ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay) kit. Risk factors such as contact with cats and dogs, living in rural areas were investigated among the study population. Out of 539 total samples collected, 97 cases (17.99%) were positive for anti-toxocara IgG antibodies. These antibodies were recovered from serum samples of otherwise healthy adults (15.54%, 49/296), pregnant women (21.16%, 40/189) and diabetic patients (14.81%, 8/54). This study showed significant relationship between toxocariasis and contact with animal pets in all studied groups (P value = 0.05) and a significant relationship between toxocariasis and living in rural areas among pregnant women (P value = 0.05). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: Self-immolation is the death of a life. It is seen in women who have suffered greatly in life for long years, lost patience totally and found no way out except selfimmolation. The aim of this study was to identify the epidemiologic pattern of women's self-immolation in Ilam Province, Iran during the period 2011-2016. Materials and Methods: This was a descriptive study in which data were collected based on the files of women who had immolated themselves during the period 2015-2016 and analyzed using the SPSS software, the statistical tests being descriptive statistics. Results: A total of 129 women, within the age range 11-95 years (mean 24 years), had immolated themselves during the 5-year period (53.5% in the age group 20-35 years), 73.6% of them being married and 77.5% housewives. The average body surface burn percentage was 70%, the range being 15-99%. Most cases of self-immolation had occurred in autumn and spring, mostly in the afternoon. The most common cause of self-immolation had been reported as unknown (38% of the cases), followed by mental disease and depression (30.2%) and family conflicts (17.1%), specially husband and wife conflicts. Conclusion: Self-immolation is the unusual ending of a life. Young married women are more likely to get exposed to hardships and confusion in the course of family and community life. Depression is one of the most important causes of suicide, a consequence of issues such as violence and harassment by spouse and family, poverty, deprivation and destitution. Strategies to reduce self-immolation would include comprehensive social support and protection against domestic violence against women, educationg women about techniques to control anger and reduce stress, and informing them about support centers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Suicide by aggressive physical methods such as firearms, hanging, and jumping is well known; however, different factors may influence a person while selecting a particular method. The aim of this study was to investigate the epidemiological factors involved in the selection and use of different physical methods for suicide over a long-term period in Ilam province, Iran. Methods: The present study was conducted retrospectively between 1993 and 2013 using recorded data from a comprehensive system for registration of suicide attempts in Ilam University of Medical Sciences. The epidemiological characteristics included person, time and place variables, and the outcomes of the suicide attempts. The chi square, univariate and multivariate logistic regression models were used for data analysis. Results: Totally, 1516 suicide attempts were evaluated (the annual incidence rate: 19/100,000 individuals). The most commonly used suicide method in females (88.4%) and males (38.9%) was self-immolation. Furthermore, the annual incidence rate among males and females was within the age group of 15-24 years (24.6 and 47.8/100,000 individuals). The risk of death by suicide in the age group of 55-64 years was 2.93 compared with the age group of 10-14 years (OR = 2.93; 95% CI = 0.64-13.54, P = 0.168). Conclusion: This study revealed that self-immolation was the most selected physical method of suicide and had the highest incidence rate, and inflicted the survivors with severe physical and mental complications. In order to reduce the use of physical methods, especially self-immolation, life skills training becomes more important than ever. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three species of springtails were identified as new records for Iranian fauna from Ilam Province, western Iran: Hemisotoma quadrioculatus (Martynova, 1967), Isotoma anglicana Lubbock, 1862 (Isotomidae) and Metaphorura riozoi Castano-Meneses, Palacios-Vargas & Traser, 2000 (Tullbergiidae). Brief information for each species about material examined, ecology, illustrations and distribution is given. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Cryptosporidium is a coccidian parasite that can infect most mammals, including humans. This parasite is an important cause of neonatal diarrhea and morbidity in calves, causing substantial economic loss to animal husbandry. Because of the importance of this parasite in calves, this study was designed in order to determine prevalence of Cryptosporidium spp. among calves under one year old in Ilam county (Iran). Methods: Prevalence of Cryptosporidium spp. was estimated using a cross-sectional study. Fecal samples from 400 calves under 1 year old were collected in Ilam County, from March 2014 to February 2015 and they were microscopically analyzed using modified Ziehl-Neelsen method (mZN). Results: The overall prevalence of Cryptosporidiosis in calves was 16% (64/400). According to age categories, the highest infection was observed in calves under one month old, and the lowest infection occurred in calves 6 to 12 months old. Age was significantly associated with Cryptosporidium spp. infection (p<0.05). The prevalence of Cryptosporidiosis in diarrheic and none diarrheic calves was 27.3 and 12.4 % respectively, which indicated a significant association between positivity and diarrhea (p<0.05). The highest prevalence was observed in winter followed by autumn, spring and summer respectively. No statically difference was found between prevalence of Cryptosporidiosis and seasons of sampling. Also, calves' gender was not associated with Cryptosporidium spp. infection in this study. Conclusion: Our results provide useful information about the distribution of Cryptosporidium spp. Also, the role of potential risk factors including age, sex, clinical status and seasons of sampling was indicated in studied calves from Ilam County. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objective: Parasitic diseases are considered as the most prevalent problems in developing countries. Oral-fecal route way and consuming raw vegetables are one of the most important ways of contamination of gastrointestinal system with parasites. Present study aimed to explore the level of vegetables contamination with parasitic factors. Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 200 samples were collected of vegetable stores from March to September in Ilam County and examined through precipitation method and by centrifuge in terms of parasitical contamination. In order to analyze data, software SPSS was applied. Results: The obtained results indicated that there was at least one parasitic contamination among 122(61%) samples out of total number. The highest parasitic contamination was attributed to Giardia cysts. Conclusion: Comparing percentage of contamination of vegetable in Ilam County to the results from previous studies in different cities showed high number of contamination of consuming vegetables in this region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As the field of high-precision applications based on carriers continues to expand, the development of low-cost, small, modular receivers and their application in diverse scenarios and situations with complex data quality has increased the requirements of carrier-phase data preprocessing. A new geometry-based cycle slip detection and repair method based on Global Position System (GPS) + BeiDou Navigation Satellite System (BDS) is proposed. The method uses a Time-differenced Carrier Phase (TDCP) model, which eliminates the Inner-System Bias (ISB) between GPS and BDS, and it is conducive to the effective combination of GPS and BDS. It avoids the interference of the noise of the pseudo-range with cycle slip detection, while the cycle slips are preserved as integers. This method does not limit the receiver frequency number, and it is applicable to single-frequency data. The process is divided into two steps to detect and repair cycle slip. The first step is cycle slip detection, using the Improved Local Analysis Method (ILAM) to find satellites that have cycle slips; The second step is to repair the cycle slips, including estimating the float solution of changes in ambiguities at the satellites that have cycle slips with the least squares method and the integer solution of the cycle slips by rounding. In the process of rounding, in addition to the success probability, a decimal test is carried out to validate the result. Finally, experiments with filed test data are carried out to prove the effectiveness of this method. The results show that the detectable cycle slips number with GPS + BDS is much greater than that with GPS. The method can also detect the non-integer outliers while fixing the cycle slip. The maximum decimal bias in repair is less than that with GPS. It implies that this method takes full advantages of multi-system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: One of the main steps of optimization process in diagnostic imaging is quality control of X-ray devices. If the control quality process and the quality of X-ray equipment are not ensured through a systematic procedure, it can increase the risk of unnecessary exposures among the population. Therefore, this study can reduce the risk of unnecessary exposures in the entire population. Materials and Methods: In this study, six quality control tests including voltage measurement accuracy test, time accuracy test, output repeatability test, output to time linearity test, output to milliamp linearity test, and radiation quality measurement test were evaluated in all centers of Ilam in accordance with what the international Atomic Energy Agency and the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran has presented. Results: The result showed that diagnostic X-ray devices available in Ilam had a relatively good quality in all quality control tests that were done except the associated with the radiance quality of (HVL). However, almost all these devices need to add additional filters to the X-ray tubes to resolve error in their HVL. Conclusion: Adding additional filters to radiology devices in Ilam Province and modifying the thickness of filters seem to be necessary and desirable which will prevent the unnecessary increase in patients' dose. The accurate and regular implementation of quality control tests in imaging wards should change into a culture. On the other hand, the relevant organizations which have the great responsibility to protect people against radiation are recommended to monitor and supervise radiology centers more accurately and responsibly to repair diagnostic radiation devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydatid cyst is a chronic zoonotic disease caused by the larval stage of the dog tapeworm, Echinococcus granulosus. To identify genotype of hydatid cysts of human and sheep jackal in Ilam Province (South West of Iran), the PCR-RFLP and DNA sequencing were used. A total of 10 human and 20 sheep protoscoleces hydatid cyst samples were collected from different hospitals and slaughterhouses. Then, the gene of cox1 of mitDNA of the parasite was amplified and PCR products were cut using AluI and HpaII restriction enzymes. Finally, a number of PCR products were bi-directionally sequenced. Based on the DNA sequencing and PCR-RFLP results, human and sheep samples indicated to pertain the genotypic similarities. Our data indicated that, the genotypes of larval stage of E. granulosus is similar in both intermediate hosts. According to the phylogenetic tree, there is at least one genotype of parasite, which belongs to E. granulosous sensu stricto (G1-G3) complex and overall isolates sequences of mtDNA indicated 100 % homology with references G1, G2, and G3 sequences in the GenBank database. G1 genotype was the dominant genotype of human and livestock. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Suicide is an important social tragic phenomenon which occurs by different tools or methods in different communities. Considering deliberate poisoning as a common and important method in Ilam province for suicide, the present study was launched to epidemiologically assess committing suicide in Ilam province, Iran, based on intentional poisoning.Methods: By a retrospective study, all the recorded data associated with intentional poisoning suicide in Ilam Province during 1993-2013 were analyzed. All the demographic variables and the suicides' outcomes were analyzed using the Chi-Square test, and the univariate and multivariate logistic regression models.Results: Totally, 6794 cases of suicide (annual incidence rate of 87.28/ 100, 000) associated with poisoning were evaluated. The incidence rate of suicide attempts was 84.63/ 100, 000 (94.51 in female and 74.98 in male) and the incidence rate of completed suicide was 2.17/ 100, 000 (1.94 in female and 2.40 in male). Also, the highest rates of attempted and completed suicide (annual incidence rate of 172.42 and 4.14, respectively) were attributed to the age group of 15-24 year.Conclusion: Females had a greater tendency to commit suicide by poisoning, and the lower level of education, the age group of 15-24 years and single individuals were more associated with suicide using poisonings. The incidence of attempted suicide in females and completed suicide in males was higher in this method. Considering the high rate of suicide by poisoning, further attention and supervision on the sale and reserve of drugs and poisons is necessary. Meanwhile, it seems that due to momentary emotions during the pubertal stage, the risk of committing suicide is increased especially among unemployed individuals; therefore, performing an extensive psychotherapy intervention is needed in the societies with younger populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: Cultural diversity among patients is of the issues affecting nurses in clinical settings . Therefore, the cultural competence of nurses is essential to communicate effectively with patients and improve their health. This study was designed to evaluate the cultural competence among nurses employed in the hospitals affiliated with Ilam University of Medical Sciences, Iran, in 2014. Materials and Methods: This cross - sectional study was conducted on nurses working in hospitals of Ilam University of Medical Sciences , in which 215 nurses selected by convenience sampling . Data were collected using Moulder's cultural competence questionnaire by self - assessment method, and then analyzed using descriptive tests, t - test and Spearman correlation coefficient via the SPSS 18 software. Moral Considerations: Informed consent was obtained from the participants for attending and conducting research, after complete description of the research objectives and assuring that the information is completely confidential and has no effect on their professional evaluation process. Finding s : 55.81% of female participants had a bachelor's degree (95.34%) with 2 to 5 years of work experience (45.58%). Average score of cultural competence of nurses was at a moderate level (115.03±25.56). The results also showed the highest average score of cultural competence in terms of preparation for cultural care (50.16±13.16) and the lowest average for attitudes towards cultural care (12.69±2.50). In addition, there was significant difference in the scores of cultural competence between females and males (P=0.001), so that the level of cultural competence was higher in females compared with males. A significant correlation was found between cultural competence and years of work experience (P=0.040), so that the level of cultural competence improved with increasing work experience. Conclusion : The cultural competence of nurses in this study was reported at the moderate level. Thus, according to the importance of culture in health and social relations, planning toward promotion of cultural competence among nurses is essential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Suicide is the most common cause of death among young people, People who tend to commit suicide may be feelings of fear, hopelessness, helplessness, confusion, and depression as well. These people more they want of suffering it is caught escape not to really have the intention to commit suicide. The research methodology is descriptive CORRELATIONAL. The research sample consisted of 120 female workers employed at the hospital who were selected by simple random sampling is; main instrument of data collection as well as spiritual health questionnaire (PULUTZIN -ELISON), Emotional Intelligence (Sharing) and a measure of suicidal ideation (Beck) is. Research hypotheses methods Pierson correlations and regression analysis using the software SPSS were tested. The results showed that emotional intelligence and spiritual health a significant inverse relationship with suicidal thoughts are in the sample. Correlation analysis between variables showed negative correlation and significance between variables, emotional intelligence and spiritual health, suicidal thoughts there and in the meantime, health, religious (R=-0/688 and p=0/000) and health (R=-0/621 and p=0/000) the highest correlation have suicidal thoughts. Results of regression analysis showed that emotional intelligence and spiritual health, 47% of the variation in suicidal thoughts have been expressed. The results showed that, between emotional intelligence and spiritual health, there is a significant association with suicidal thoughts; Therefore strengthening and education and provide solutions to promote the spiritual and emotional intelligence can reduce the incidence of thoughts, suicide attempt and effective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Impaired fasting glycaemia (IFG) has been defined as the fasting plasma glucose level between 6.1 (110 mgl/dl) and 6.9 mmol/l (125 mgl/dl). Control of hyperglycaemia during acute illness among diabetic and nondiabetic patients has been associated with improved outcome. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of and factors related to hyperglycaemia, IFG and diabetes in west of Iran. Methods: This project was performed by a cross-sectional method in Ilam province including 2158 people ≥ 25 years old. From the list of all rural and urban health centers of each county, several were randomly selected. For each selected health centre, families numbered 1-20 completed questionnaire forms for all the members aging ≥ 25 years. FBS was measured for all the participants by standard method. All the demographic and laboratory results were analysed using SPSS 16. Descriptive and regression analysis were used for statistical analysis appropriately. Results: A total of 2158 people were evaluated in this study, among which 72% were female with a mean age of 45.5 ± 14 years. 40% of participants were from urban regions and the mean height, weight, FBS and waist size of the participants were respectively as follows: 164 ± 8.9 cm, 68.4 ± 12.3 kg, 5.7 ± 2.8 mmol/l (102.6 ± 49.9 mg/dl) and 82.3 ± 14.3 cm. The prevalence of IFG, diabetes and hyperglycaemia among participants were 7.8%, 11.8% and 19.6%, respectively and participants from urban area showed a significantly higher prevalence of hyperglycaemia compared to rural regions (P < 0.0001). Conclusion: The most effective factors associated with IFG and diabetes were family history of diabetes, age, hypertension, marital status, place of life and smoking, respectively. The prevalence of IFG, diabetes and hyperglycemia among the population living in Ilam province, west of Iran, were 7.8, 11.8 and 19.6% respectively which were directly increased with age. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Ilam is a border province and a high risk zone for zoonotic cutaneous leishmaniasis (ZCL). Identification of Leishmania parasite species in clinical infections is a prerequisite for planning appropriate control measures. This study investigates the demographic characteristics of patients and molecular epidemiology of Leishmania parasites in the skin lesions of patients from Ilam Province. Methods: A total of 106 cases of suspected cutaneous leishmaniasis were detected passively and microscopic slides prepared from their active skin lesions. We randomly selected 50 slides. A fragment of the rDNA-ITS1 gene was amplified after which the PCR products digested with HaeIII restriction enzyme. There were 18 samples sequenced and their phylogenetic relationships compared with sequences retrieved from GenBank. Results: Leishmania amastigotes were detected in 100 slides. The highest and lowest distribution of cases was from the Moosian and Dehloran districts, respectively. There were 68.9% males and 31.1% of cases were women. The RFLP pattern of all samples was similar to Leishmania major. Phylogenetic relationships displayed great similarity between our sequences and those of Leishmania major parasites from sandflies trapped in Ilam and South Khorasan Provinces and human hosts from Esfarayen, Mahshahr and Afghanistan plus Leishmania mexicana of Venezuelan origin classified together in the same clade. Conclusion: Due to homogeneous morphology, problems associated with the cultivation of Leishmania and the two-step molecular identification process, the rDNA-ITS1-RFLP method has gained considerable attention in recent years. This method could be used as a very sensitive, simple, rapid and inexpensive method to detect Leishmania parasites in a variety of clinical and non-clinical samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Mental disorder is one of the most important diseases of which is predicted to increase from 10.5% to 15% until 2020. This study aimed to determine economic factors influencing mental health using multiple regression models in Ilam province in 2013. Methods: In this cross sectional study, 903 families from different cities of Ilam were selected using multistage cluster sampling. The families were selected from each city separately and each head of family was interviewed. The instruments for data collection included general and economic questionnaires and the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ). The data were analyzed using SPSS software version 21, Eviews, t-test, ANOVA, Pearson's correlation coefficient, single and multiple linear regressions. Results: The mean ± SD mental health score in this study was 28.5±12.10. The mental health increased for 4.26 units per each unit of life satisfaction increase, decreased for 4.09 units per each unit of gender growth, increased for 2.94 units per each unit of increase in economic status and had a significant correlation with all the three components (p<0.001). Conclusion: In order to improve people's mental health, it is recommended that healthcare officials may more attention to this matter through implementation of programs such as life skills' training, stress resistance skills training, and helping individuals to be able to adapt themselves to their life environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many Palaeolithic sites have been reported from previous archaeological investigations in the Holeylan Plain in the west of Iran. As a common belief, the Palaeolithic chronology of this area begins from the late Lower Palaeolithic to the Epipalaeolithic. However, earlier studies considered many sites devoid of industries like Mousterian or Levallois. Therefore, a recent exploration was carried out which revealed a new phase in the stone tool technology of these sites, i.e., the Mousterian industry. The present paper is an attempt to bring forth the new chronology and discuss the typo-technology of the artefacts at these sites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Childhood malnutrition is a leading cause of mortality and morbidity in children under five years in Nepal. There is evidence to show that childhood malnutrition varies from region to region, within Nepal. But there is no data available about nutritional status of children in the 75 districts in Nepal. The aim of this study was to evaluate the nutritional status of children less than five years of age in Ilam district. Material and Methods: We analysed the anthropometric data for the children of Ilam district who visited Dr. Megh Bahadur Parajuli Community Hospital in Ilam district. Results: Our data showed that 15.7% of girls and 21.2% of boys under-five years suffered from moderate malnutrition. Severe malnutrition was present in 6.7% of girls and 9.6% of boys. Stunting was seen in 32.6% girls and 30.16% boys. Moderate stunting was present in 19.6% of girls and 19% of boys; while severe stunting was present in 11% of the boys and 13% of the girls. Conclusion: Our data shows that stunting among under-fives in Ilam is less as compared to that reported for Nepal, but underweight is comparable to the national data. However, a systematic study needs to be carried out in Ilam before drawing firm conclusions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]