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Background and Aim Training clinical students who learn the theoretical lessons in hospitals in practice will play an important role in improving treatment processes and providing better services to patients. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to identify the factors affecting the quality of clinical education in hospitals in Saveh City. Methods & Materials This research is a combination of exploratory studies and exploratory projects. In the qualitative stage, the qualitative method of Grand Strauss and Corbyn 1998 was used to explain the quality of clinical training. Since the students who have taken clinical courses in the Faculty of Medical Sciences of Saveh Hospitals in 1398-1397 are about 200 people and the professors and educators who teach these people are about 20 people, which according to Karajsi and Morgan, the sample size should be 140, of which 20 were interviewed and 120 were filled out with paper and electronic questionnaires. In this study, semi-structured interviews, and a researcher-made questionnaire with Cronbach’s alpha coefficient of 0.598 were selected as the data collection method. This research was performed using the qualitative method and using MAZQDA 10 and SPSS 26 software, the items obtained from qualitative research were collected and exploratory factor analysis was used to identify the factors. Ethical Considerations Considering that this study is one of the research priorities of Saveh School of Medical Sciences, it has a research license letter (No. 24.127. D.99). Results The results showed that the factors affecting the quality of clinical education include five factors. The first factor is space and facilities, the second factor is the improvement of educational processes, the third factor is educational and managerial deficiencies, the fourth factor is the evaluation of the teacher and the fifth factor is the qualitative improvement of education. Conclusion According to the quantitative and qualitative results of this study and by interviewing twenty experienced professors and student representatives, the factors affecting the quality of clinical education in Saveh hospitals were identified. [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 Aim MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of small non-coding RNAs (17-25 nucleotides) that have been studied in many diseases. miRNAs studies in different cancers have shown that miRNAs may be considered oncogene or tumor suppressor. So far, many studies have shown that miR-17-5p and miR-93-5p are important regulatory molecules in some biological processes, such as cell proliferation, associated with cancer formation. This study aimed to investigate and compare the tissue and plasma expression levels of miR-17-5p and miR-93-5p in patients with ductal carcinoma breast cancer with the normal control group. Methods & Materials The total RNA (including miRNA) was extracted from breast and plasma tissue samples of cancerous and normal samples. The RNA concentration and purity were confirmed using optical absorbance measurements. cDNA was synthesized, and the expression levels of miR-17-5p and miR-93-5p were assessed semi-quantitatively by SYBR Green-based real-time RT-PCR assay in plasma and breast tissues of ductal carcinoma breast cancer compared with the control normal samples with SNORD47 as internal normalizer. Data were statistically evaluated using GraphPad Prism 8.0.2. Ethical Considerations This study was approved by the Ethics Committee of the institute (IRAN 52d/4922, 6.10.2016). All study individuals signed a consent form to use their clinical samples and personal data under the physician’s supervision. Results The expression level of miR-17-5p showed significantly higher expression in tissues and plasma of the cancer group compared with the control group (P<0.0001). It was also significantly associated with tumor stage and lymph node, and ER (estrogen receptor) and PR (progesterone receptor) status (P<0.0001). While decreased expression of miR-93-5p in plasma and tumor tissues was shown to be significantly associated with tumor stage and lymph node involvement (P<0.0001). Conclusion The data revealed that high expression of miR-17-5p and low expression of miR-93-5p in both plasma and breast tumor might be associated with poor prognosis in breast cancer. However, miR-17-5p, due to the greater change in expression and ease of plasma detection, may serve as a possible non-invasive biomarker for breast cancer’s poor prognosis. Further follow-up studies are required to confirm this finding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The stress caused by COVID-19 had affected many people in society, especially individuals at risk. The present study was carried out to investigate, firstly, whether COVID-19- related stress plays a mediating role in the relationship between rumination and aggression in drug-dependent people undergoing treatment. Secondly, the study was conducted to know whether rumination has an indirect effect on the aggression of substance-dependent people under treatment through the mediation of COVID-19-related stress. Methods: In this correlational analytical study, 136 patients undergoing maintenance treatment with methadone who were willing to enter the study were investigated by the available sampling method in two addiction treatment centers in the 1st and 2nd districts. The data collection tools in the present study included the Corona Disease Anxiety Questionnaire, Rumination Questionnaire, and Bass and Perry Aggression Questionnaire. After collecting the data, the anxiety score of each participant was measured from 0 to 54, the rumination score from 0 to 88, and the aggression score from 29 to 145. Then, the data was analyzed using Lisrel statistical software. Results: Findings showed that the direct effect of rumination on aggression is 0.23, which is significant at the P < 0.01 level. Therefore, rumination has a positive and direct effect on aggression. Also, COVID-19-related stress plays a mediating role in the relationship between rumination and aggression in drug addicts under treatment. In addition, the indirect effect of rumination on aggression is 0.25, which is significant. Thus, rumination has an indirect effect on aggression through the mediation of COVID-19-related stress. Conclusions: According to the high prevalence of psycho-social problems such as depression, anxiety, fear, addiction, job burnout, suicidal thoughts, violence, domestic and post-traumatic stress during the COVID-19 pandemic, in the post-corona era, we have witnessed a high amount of mental and social injuries in the world. For this reason, governments must screen psychologically vulnerable groups in advance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Traffic accidents are a principal challenge in the injury and death of people in Iran and many other countries, which has made the formulation of necessary strategies and planning for inter-sectoral cooperation to prevent and reduce traffic accidents undeniable. Therefore, this research was conducted to investigate the dimensions of inter-sectoral collaboration in preventing traffic accidents in Iran. Methods: This research is a qualitative study that was conducted in 2023. In this study, sampling was done in a targeted manner, and 15 people from the statistical population were interviewed. The statistical population of the research at this stage included executive managers, traffic police, field activists, and public institutions active in the field of traffic accidents in Central Province and Tehran, who, due to the relevance of their job field, were informed or participated in intersectoral cooperation in line with the management of accidents and traffic accidents were included in the study. Data were collected and analyzed through structured interviews, and their coding was done with the help of MAXQDA 11 software. Results: The study identified and extracted eight main dimensions of intersectoral cooperation in preventing traffic accidents. These dimensions include laws and law enforcement, research and development, information and data management, internal and external coordination, crisis management, education and awareness, roads, and vehicles. Conclusions: Providing platforms for promoting the development and expansion of inter-sectoral cooperation in accident prevention and traffic accidents can have various benefits, including long-term social, political, economic and, well-being. Therefore, based on the findings of the research, it is suggested to design an intersectoral cooperation model for the prevention of accidents and traffic accidents so that traffic accidents can be reduced to the minimum possible with proper planning and design so that we can witness the highest level of effectiveness and efficiency in this area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim Food and sports supplements are used by athletes all over the world, and correct and optimal consumption improves performance and prevents sports injuries. In this regard, creatine and ginseng supplements can be effective on physiological indicators and sports performance. Therefore, considering that no research has been done on the use of these supplements on blood indicators on fencers. The present study compares the effect of creatine and ginseng supplements on blood ammonia, HDL, LDL and homocysteine indices of the male players of the Iranian Epe fencing team. Methods & MaterialsIn the present study, 14 male players of the Epe national fencing team were divided into two creatine supplement groups (7 people) and ginseng supplement group (7 people). Subjects in two groups performed their normal exercises with the team during the research, and on the day before the measurement, after a specific activity in a sitting position, blood was taken from the arm vein of the subjects by a specialist. The statistical significance difference was determined at the level of P ≥ 0.05 and ANCOVA test was used to determine the differences between groups and the data was analyzed by SPSS software, version 25. Ethical Considerations This article was approved by the Ethics Committee of Islamic Azad University, Shahrood Branch (Code: IR.IAU.SHAHROOD.REC.1400.073). Results The results showed that after six weeks, there is a significant difference between the creatine and ginseng groups in the blood indices of ammonia, LDL, HDL and homocysteine (P≥0.05). so that the average of creatine supplement group in ammonia, LDL, HDL and homocysteine index in terms of mg/ dL respectively (2.56±0.83, 1.16±0.33, 7.45±0.48, 8.89±0.18) and Gensing group (2.05±0.29, 1.46±0.78, 8.11±0.27, 7.63±0.45). Conclusion The results showed that there is a significant difference in the average of blood ammonia, HDL, LDL and hemocytin between the creatine supplement group and the ginseng supplement group. Therefore, the role of ginseng supplement in reducing blood ammonia and homocysteine and in increasing HDL was more than that of creatine supplement, and the role of creatine supplement in reducing LDL was more than that of ginseng supplement. So it can be concluded that the role of ginseng supplement in the changes of blood ammonia, homocysteine and HDL is more than the role of creatine supplement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim Sexual function is an important part of menopausal women's lives, and changes in it, especially during menopause, can affect their health. The aim of this study was to compare the effectiveness of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) on the sexual function of postmenopausal women. Methods & Materials This research was a quasi-experimental with pre-test, post-test and follow-up design with control group. The statistical population of the study included postmenopausal women who referred to Zanjan Health Center in 2020 to receive services. Among them, 45 were selected using the available sampling method and were randomly assigned to three groups of 15, and control group using randomly assigned block allocation method. Therapeutic sessions were held in 8 sessions and each session was held for 2 hours. Data were collected by FSFI (Female Sexual Function Index) and were analyzed using ANOVA with repeated measures analysis via SPSS software, version 24. Ethical Considerations This study was approved by the ethics committee of the Zanjan University of Medical Sciences (Code: IR.ZUMS.REC.1398.328). Results In the post-test and follow-up phase, there was a significant difference between both CBT and ACT methods compared to the control group in sexual function respectively (P<0.05, F=17.857), (P<0.05, F=12.115). That is, treatment with CBT and ACT improved the sexual function of postmenopausal women, which had a lasting effect for three months, and there was no significant difference between the groups involved in sexual function (P>0.05, F=0.494). Conclusion Cognitive-behavioral therapy and acceptance-based therapy have improved sexual function in postmenopausal women, so it is recommended that these therapies be used to improve the sexual function of postmenopausal women in health centers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim The early years of life are the most critical stage in the growth and development of children. While the optimal development of children depends on a complex set of factors, the pattern of breastfeeding and complementary feeding of infants is of undeniable importance. Therefore, the present study conducted to investigate the factors related to the feeding patterns of one-year-old children referred to healthcare centers in Rafsanjan city. Methods & Materials his descriptive study was performed on 600 mothers with one-year-old children under the auspices of healthcare centers in Rafsanjan city in 2017. Volunteered mothers with active health records were selected randomly. The required information was collected through a questionnaire containing demographic characteristics and questions related to the feeding of children and was analyzed by SPSS software, version 18. Ethical Considerations The Ethics Committee of Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences (RUMS) approved the present study (Code: IR.RUMS.REC.1396.179). Results About 95% of mothers participating in this study started breastfeeding their children up to one hour after delivery, but 56.7% of them completed breastfeeding by one year of age. The results show that most mothers had started supplemental feeding with two or three spoons in each meal, and about 90% of them followed the health worker's advice. Also, the most important reasons for feeding children with powdered milk are disorders in the child's development (34%), inadequate breast milk (17%), maternal disease (14%), do not take the mother's breast (11%) and children being twins (8%). Conclusion Despite face-to-face training for mothers in health care centers for feeding their children, still there are some difficulties in commencing complementary feeding and its continuation. Therefore, need for more health and nutrition education regarding the best ways for feeding children to mothers by personnel of Rafsanjan health care centers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim This study aims to investigate the effect of nurses’ autonomy on the quality of patient care based on Kramer and Schmalenberg’s model Methods & Materials This is a causal-comparative study. Participants were 101 nurses of Imam Khomeini Hospital in Arak, Iran from the intensive care unit and internal medicine, surgery, pediatrics, gynecology, orthopedics, and emergency departments. The data collection tools were Moghimi and Ramazan’s patent care quality questionnaire and an autonomy assessment questionnaire based on Kramer and Schmalenberg’s autonomy model. The data were analyzed in SPSS software. Ethical Considerations This study was approved by the ethics committee of Islamic Azad University of Arak Branch (Code: IR.IAU.ARAK.REC.1397.66). Results The mean autonomy score of nurses was 3.16 ±0.35, indicating a desirable level. Nurses of all departments had limited autonomy. In the internal department, nurses had unsanctioned autonomy, while in the surgical department, they had autonomous nursing care action. The regression models were significant for all departments except for the internal department. With an increase of one unit in limited autonomy in the intensive care unit, autonomous nursing care in the surgical department, and limited autonomy in pediatrics, gynecology, orthopedics, and emergency departments among the nurses, the quality of care can be increased by 0.253, 0.187, 0.522, 0.205, 0.466 and 0.129, respectively. Conclusion Nurses’ autonomy can increase the quality of patient care. The nursing managers need to empower nurses and provide an environment for them to apply their knowledge in practicing autonomy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim Crisis management is an important field of management, especially in the field of health. This study aims to investigate the factors affecting the development of disaster management mechanisms in hospitals of Arak, Iran. Methods & Materials In this regard, 240 questionnaires were distributed among hospital and nursing managers in Arak. The questionnaire had acceptable reliability with Cronbach’ alpha value of 0.897. Ethical Considerations This study was approved by the ethics committee of Arak University of Medical Sciences (code: 1274.1401.REC.ARAKMU.IR). Results Then, by using structural equation modeling in LISREL software, the designed model was analyzed. Finally, by using statistical tests, the research hypotheses were examined. Conclusion The results showed the significant effect of three factors of “lack of stability in business environment”, “risk taking”, and “organizational culture” on the development of the mechanism of crisis management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim The internationalization of higher education is an effective strategy to meet the diverse needs of a society. One of the factors determining the failure or success of internationalization is the organizational culture of universities. The present study aims to investigate the role of organizational culture-related factors in the internationalization of Iranian universities. Methods & Materials This is a quantitative-quantitative study. Participants were 124 Iranian experts in higher education and those involved in internationalization of universities. A researcher-made questionnaire was used as a self-report tool with close-ended questions. In the quantitative stage, structural equation modeling and first- and second-order factor analysis were performed in SPSS and AMOS software. Ethical Considerations This study was approved by the ethics committee of Islamic Azad University, Rasht Branch (Code: IR.IAU.RASHT.REC.1400.035) Results The ranking of factors affecting the internationalization of Iranian universities showed that the factor with the highest factor loading was “communication & interaction” (1.03) and the factor with the lowest factor loading was “human/physical/financial resources” (0.87). Conclusion Communication/interaction of universities with other education centers, as an organizational culture-related factor, plays an important role in the internationalization of Iranian universities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim Old age is a critical period in life. Due to advances in technologies and improvement in healthy conditions, the number of aged population is increasing. Hence, it is necessary to pay attention to their life satisfaction and attitudes towards aging. The present study aims to assess the effectiveness of a psychological empowerment program on life satisfaction and attitude towards aging in older women living in Tehran, Iran. Methods & Materials The study population consists of all women aged 60-70 years referred to a charity foundation in Tehran, Iran in 2020. Of these, 24 women were selected by a convenience sampling method. They were randomly assigned to the intervention (n=12) and control (n=12) groups. Using a pre-test/post-test design, the elderly first completed the life satisfaction index-Z and the attitude towards aging questionnaire. Then, the experimental group received the psychological empowerment program at 8 sessions. After the intervention, the questionnaires were completed again by both groups. Multivariate analysis of covariance was used to analyze the collected data in SPSS software, version 19. Ethical Considerations This study was approved by the Research Ethics Committee of Islamic Azad University of Arak Branch (Code: IR.IAU.ARAK.REC.1400.027). Results There was a significant difference in life satisfaction (F=9.673, P=0.006) and attitudes towards aging (F=8.385, P=0.009) between the two groups. The psychological empowerment program significantly improved life satisfaction and attitudes towards aging in older women. Conclusion The psychological empowerment program is effective in improving life satisfaction and attitude towards aging in older women living in Tehran. It can be used by experts in the fields of counseling, geriatrics, psychology, and health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim Various research studies have investigated the relationship between anxiety and worry. The present study aimed to examine the mediating role of cognitive emotion regulation and mindfulness in the relationship between anxiety and worry. Methods & Materials The present study follows a correlational design study. The research sample included 248 students of Kashan universities in Iran studying in the 2017-2018 academic year. The study data were collected using the generalized anxiety disorder (GAD-7), Pennsylvania state worry questionnaire (PSWQ), the Persian short form of cognitive emotion regulation questionnaire (CERQ-P-short form), and five-factor mindfulness questionnaire (FFMQ). Then, the obtained data were analyzed using the SPSS v. 22 and AMOS v. 22 software. Ethical Considerations The Ethics Committee of Kashan University of Medical Sciences approved the study (Code: IR.KAUMS.REC.1396.36). Results The results showed a significant relationship between generalized anxiety and worry, worry and cognitive emotion regulation, worry and mindfulness, generalized anxiety and cognitive emotion regulation, and anxiety and mindfulness. The results of the structural equation modeling confirmed the mediating role of cognitive emotion regulation in the relationship between anxiety and worry. Also, the path coefficient of mindfulness and anxiety was removed from the model because it was not significant. Conclusion Generally, cognitive emotion regulation plays a mediating role in the relationship between anxiety and worry. These findings seem applicable in the individual, family, educational, therapeutic, and interpersonal mental health fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim Menopause is a period in a woman’s life that can be physically damaging. However, its effect on bone mineral density is still debatable. This study investigated the relationship between serum calcium, phosphorus, and alkaline phosphatase indices with lumbar bone mineral density in active and inactive postmenopausal women. Methods & Materials The number of subjects was 55 active postmenopausal women and 60 inactive postmenopausal women aged 45 to 85 years. Serum indices of calcium, phosphorus, and alkaline phosphatase and anthropometric of the subjects were measured. The Pearson correlation coefficient test was used to analyze the research data. SPSS software v. 26 was used to analyze the data. Ethical Considerations This study was approved by the Research Ethics Committee of Allameh Tabataba’i University with code IR.ATU.REC.1399.038. Results The results showed a significant correlation between serum levels of alkaline phosphatase (P=0.021), calcium (P=0.019), and phosphorus (P=0.011) with lumbar bone mineral density in active postmenopausal women and also between body mass index with lumbar bone mineral density in both groups of active (P=0.014) and inactive (P=0.038) postmenopausal women. No significant relationship was found between other indicators. Conclusion According to the results of the present study, being active may have had beneficial effects on bone metabolism and has led to a better state of bone mineral density. It may also help to use these blood and anthropometric variables in identifying people at risk for osteoporosis in adulthood and old age. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim A lack of healthy nutrition first causes prediabetes and then overt diabetes, and every year about 5% to 10% of people with glucose intolerance develop type 2 diabetes. This study aimed to assess the factors affecting the consumption of healthy foods (CHF) based on the food pyramid among prediabetic women based on the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB). Methods & Materials This cross-sectional study was conducted in 2019 on 99 prediabetic women selected from comprehensive healthcare centers in Arak, Iran. A demographic questionnaire, a TPB-based questionnaire, and a food consumption Questionnaire were used for data collection. Data were analyzed through Spearman’s correlation and linear regression analyses. Ethical Considerations This study was approved by the Research Ethics Committee of Arak University of Medical Sciences (Code: IR.ARAKMU.REC.1398.07). Results The Mean±SD score of diet behavior was 1.34±0.28 (in the possible range of 0-2). Around 41% of participants consumed sugary foods such as sweets and chocolate at least once a week and 35% at least once a month. Regression analysis shows that by increasing a standard deviation in the behavioral intention score, the behavior score of a healthy diet will increase by 0.22 standard deviation (P<0.05). Conclusion To achieve a healthy lifestyle in the individual at risk for a diabetics education program to increase perceived behavior and motivation for decision making for adherence to healthy food can be attention for policymakers in a health system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: Children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder are a good target group for cognitive rehabilitation Because their behavioral problems, including inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity, have a specific cognitive and cerebral origin. This adaptation of behavior to cognitive function provides an opportunity to repair behavior by strengthening cognitive function. This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of cognitive rehabilitation based on virtual reality technology as a new method and classical cognitive rehabilitation in improving the executive functions of children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Methods & Materials: This research was a quasi-experimental study using a pre-test-post-test design with a control group. The statistical population included all children aged 7-12 years with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in Tehran in 1398 who were selected by convenience sampling method and randomly divided into 3 groups of 12 people. In the pre-test stage, participants were assessed with the Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Rating Scale and the Computer Integrated Visual and Auditory Test (IVA-2). The first group received a virtual reality-based cognitive rehabilitation package and the second group received a Captain Log computer cognitive rehabilitation package, 12 sessions twice a week. No intervention was performed in the control group during this period. Post-tests were taken from all 3 groups after the intervention. Univariate analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) was used to analyze the data using SPSS software v. 26. Ethical Considerations: This study was approved by the Research Ethics Committee of the Islamic Azad University, Central Tehran Branch (Code: IR.IAU.CTB.REC.1400.001). Results: The results showed that both methods of cognitive rehabilitation intervention had a significant effect on cognitive functions (selective attention, sustained attention) of Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) children (P<0.01). But no significant difference was observed between the mean scores of selective attention and sustained attention in the first experimental group and the second experimental group (P>0.05). Conclusion: Virtual reality-based cognitive rehabilitation is as effective as classical cognitive rehabilitation on selective attention and sustained attention in children with ADHD. Virtual reality-based cognitive rehabilitation can be used as a new approach to rehabilitating this disorder. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim In acute myeloid leukemia, a large number of immature cells develop, which can related to some single nucleotide polymorphisms presence in positions of genes that encodes enzymes involved in cell activation and evolution signaling pathways. In this study, the association of rs104893674 (A / C) polymorphism with the risk of Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) in samples obtained from Fars and Isfahan Province hospitals was investigated. Methods & MaterialsIn the present case-control study conducted at Islamic Azad University of Kazerun in 2019, 94 AML patients and 99 age and sex-matched healthy individuals were enrolled. The rs104893674 (A / C) polymorphism was determined by Tetra Primer ARMS PCR method. Data were analyzed by SPSS (version23) software using Chi-square statistical test. Ethical Considerations This study with research ethics code IR.IAU.KAU.REC.1398.051 has been approved by Research Ethics Committee of Islamic Azad University of Kazerun. Results The results of this study showed a significant, allele and genotype-specific Association between rs104893674 (A / C) polymorphism with risk of AML. Thus, there are more likely to develop AML in AC genotype, individuals with A allele at this polymorphic site (P=0.000). Conclusion The association of acute myeloid leukemia with the genetic polymorphism of the ZAP-70 protein can be considered as an option for prognosis of this complication in susceptible individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim Coping with stress is one of the most important research areas in health psychology. Researching in this regard requires a tool with strong psychometric properties and validation in Iranian culture. The purpose of this study was to investigate the most commonly used short-scale factor structure, the Carver’s Brief Cope. Methods & Materials This study was a cross-sectional and methodological study of test type. The statistical population consisted of all students studying at Birjand University in 1977-98. Sampling was available by the method. The condition for entry into the study was the experience of a stressor for at least 6 months. After receiving a medium or high score on the perceived stress level, 629 students completed the 28-question form. Data was analyzed using SPSS V. 15 and laser software V. 8.8. Exploratory factor analysis was performed to determine the factor structure of the questionnaire. A confirmatory factor analysis was used to confirming the factors. Reliability was established through retesting and internal consistency. Ethical Considerations This study is part of a PhD. thesis, registered (Code: IR.UM.REC. 3/50099) at Ferdowsi University of Mashhad. Before entering the study, an informed consent was obtained from the subjects. Results After confirming the face and content validity quantitatively and qualitatively, the exploratory factor analysis results after varimax rotation showed 55.139% of the total variance explained by the first eight factors with a higher than one specific value. However, in confirmatory factor analysis, the first two factors, 4 and 7, were omitted due to insufficient power to explain the present variables. Finally, the goodness-of-fit indices of the RMFIA, PFI, GFI, IFI, IFI, CFI, AGFI confirmed the fit of the six-factor structure with the data. Reliability of the instrument was also confirmed by internal consistency (α=0.73) and test-retest reliability (r=0.59). Conclusion The highly abbreviated 6-item form of Carver’s Brief Cope showed good validity and reliability in the student sample and can be used in health psychology studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim Musculoskeletal disorders are mainly prevalent among college students who experience direct contact with patients. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of musculoskeletal pains among Rehabilitation, Dentistry, and Nursing students at Arak University of Medical Sciences in 2017-2018. Methods & Materials In this cross-sectional descriptive study, 538 students of Arak University of Medical Sciences were recruited using the convenience sampling approach. Variables included age, sex, body mass index, study field, hours of using smartphone per day, and nine symptom sites being neck, shoulders, upper back, elbows, low back, wrist/hands, hips/thighs, knees, and ankles/feet. The researchers assessed the musculoskeletal pain by using the Nordic questionnaire and demographic questionnaire. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS V. 18. Ethical Considerations The Research Ethics Committee of Arak University of Medical Sciences approved this study (Code: IR.ARAKMU.REC.1397.253). Results In this study, 538 students (205 males and 333 females) were studied with Mean±SD age of 22.04±2.53 years old. The results showed that the prevalence of musculoskeletal pain in the spine (neck 29.4%, upper 24.3%, and lower back 37.2%) was higher than in upper and lower extremities. Musculoskeletal pain in the shoulder, upper, lower back, and thigh were significantly different based on sex. Also, musculoskeletal pain in the neck and ankle, and foot were significantly different based on age (P<0.05). There was a significant difference between musculoskeletal pain of back and ankle based on smartphone use hours per day. Conclusion This study suggested that rehabilitation, nursing, and dentistry students are at risk for musculoskeletal pain, especially in the lumbar, cervical, and upper back. [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]

Background and Aim Chronic periodontitis is the most prevalent form of periodontitis and it generally considered as a progressive inflammatory disease. Environmental and systemic factors can alter the immune response to biofilm and lead to progressive degenerative disease. Chronic periodontitis is defined as an infectious disease that causes inflammation in the tooth-supporting tissues, periodontal attachment loss, and bone loss. Identification of risk factors for this disease is important. Hence, this study aims to evaluate the risk factors for chronic periodontitis. Methods & Materials This case-control study was conducted on 120 periodontitis patients and 120 healthy controls in Arak, Iran. A questionnaire was used to estimate their Socio-Economic Status (SES) and survey demographic and risk factors. For the diagnosis of chronic periodontitis, the identification of plaque accumulation site and clinical examination were performed. To investigate the association of chronic periodontitis with study variables, multilevel logistic regression analysis was used in STATA V. 11 software. Ethical Considerations This study obtained its ethical approval from the Research Ethics Committee of Arak University of Medical Sciences under code: 1397.145. Results The Odds Ratio (OR) of chronic periodontitis in adults aged above 30 years was 2.91 (95% CI: 1.01- 8.73). Compared to subjects with low SES, the OR of chronic periodontitis was 2.28 (95% CI: 1.22- 4.27) in those with moderate SES and 0.89 (95% CI: 0.79-0.98) in those with high SES. Compared to patients who did not brush their teeth, the OR of chronic periodontitis was 0.67 (95% CI: 0.39-0.89) in patients reported toothbrushing. Compared to those who reported changing toothbrush sooner than 3 months, the OR was 4.96 (95% CI: 2.27-11.3) in those their changed their toothbrush for more than 6 months interval. The OR of chronic periodontitis in current smokers was 3.09 (95% CI: 1.52-4.76). Conclusion Cigarette smoking, alcohol consumption, tooth brushing, and SES are the risk factors associated with chronic periodontitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim Parental acceptance is an important parameter in selecting the proper behavior management technique during pediatric dental treatment. The present study aimed to compare the effects of different informing methods on acceptance of parents about behavior management techniques used in pediatric dentistry. Methods & Materials This quasi-experimental study was conducted on one 162 parents of 3-7-year-old uncooperative children who were candidates for dental treatment. They were randomly divided into three groups. Their acceptance about six behavior management techniques including general anesthesia, voice control, hand-over-mouth, parental separation, active and passive physical restraint were assessed by a questionnaire. After determining the level of acceptance, the information about the techniques was presented through three ways include writing, verbal and visual methods. Finally, their acceptance of each technique and the reasons for non-acceptance were re-evaluated. Data were analyzed in SPSS v.23 software using ANOVA and t-test. Ethical Considerations This study obtained its ethical approval from the Research Ethics Committee of Arak University of Medical Sciences under code: IR.ARAKMU.REC.1398.102. Results The informing methods significantly increased the parents’ acceptance about behavior management techniques. According to the ANOVA results, the effect of visual presentation method in general anesthesia technique was significantly lower than that of other methods (P<0.05), while its effect in active physical restraint technique was significantly greater than that of other methods (P<0.05). There was no statistically significant difference between the effects of informing methods in other behavior management techniques. Conclusion Informing parents about pediatric behavior management techniques increase their acceptance. Informing by visual presentation is the most effective method for increasing their acceptance of physical restraint technique, while in their acceptance of general anesthesia technique other informing methods are more effective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim Periostin acts as necessary protein in tissue development and has a key role in tooth-supporting tissues such as periodontal ligament. The effect of inflammation on reducing periostin level has been shown in some studies. The aim of this study was to compare the salivary and Gingival Crevicular Fluid (GCF) periostin levels in patients with chronic periodontitis and healthy peers. Methods & Materials In this matched case-control study, 106 participants (53 patients with chronic periodontitis and 53 healthy controls) were studies after signing a informed consent form. They were matched for age, gender, weight, and Body Mass Index (BMI). The GCF and salivary samples were collected from all participants and were assessed using standard Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA). The statistical analysis was conducted in Stata V. 11. Ethical Considerations This study was approved by the Research Ethics Committee of Arak University of Medical Sciences (Code: IR.ARAKMU.REC.1397.34). Results The salivary and GCF periostin levels was significantly lower in patients than in healthy subjects (P<0.001). Moreover, the periostin levels was significantly different based on periodontal parameters (P<0.001). Conclusion There is association between the incidence of chronic periodontitis and salivary and GCF periostin levels. Hence, the periostin may act as a potential biomarker for the diagnosis of chronic periodontitis and prevention of its progression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim High occupational stress reduces the workers’ concentrations and decision-making power. In industries with high risks in term of exposure to hazards, there may be negative consequence. This study aimed to investigate relationship between Occupational Stress (OS) and the job-related risks in the steel industry. Methods & Materials This is a descriptive-analytical study with cross-sectional design carried out in a steel industry located in Lorestan province of Iran in 2017. For risk and OS assessments, the Melbourne University’s 3D risk assessment model and the United Kingdom's Health and Safety Executive (HSE) questionnaire were used. Statistical analysis was performed by using Pearson correlation and Kruskal-Wallis tests in SPSS V. 22. Ethical Considerations This study was approved by Ethics Committee of Arak University of Medical Sciences with the Code: IR.NREC.007.1394.05. Results A total of 182 job-related risks were identified for 14 job titles. 19.3% of subjects had high OS level. The risk rank had a statistically significant correlation with overall OS score (P=0.03), and OS dimensions of control (P=0.02) and demand (P=0.02). There was no significant difference between the mean OS score and age, work experience, educational level. Conclusion Due to the relationship of risk amount and OS among workers in the steel industry, Planning to control stressors in the workplace and managing occupational risks by reducing the likelihood and consequence of job-related risks seems essential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim Physical complaints that have no clear cause are a process that is commonly seen in patients with Somatic Symptom Disorder (SSD). The increasing number of patients with this disorder and its related chronic symptoms including changes in quality of life and loss of individual efficiency has created social and psychological economic costs for these patients and their families. Methods & Materials This descriptive cross-sectional study conducted on 70 patients with SSD having digestive symptoms and chronic pain referred to the health centers in Semnan, Iran in winter 2018. They were selected using a convenience sampling method. The data collection tools were 15-item Patient Health Questionnaire Physical Symptoms (PHQ-15) and Rorschach test (Exner’s Comprehensive System). In order to analyze the collected data, multiple linear regression analysis, logistic regression analysis, and multivariate ANOVA were performed in SPSS V. 22 software. Ethical Considerations The present study was approved by the Research Ethics Committee of Semnan University of Medical Sciences (Code: IR.SEMUMS.REC.1397.029). Results Perceived location indices including D and Dd scores in Rorschach test were able to significantly differentiate the SSD patients from controls (P<0.05). In the logistic regression model, 70% of participants were classified properly. Conclusion There is difference in projective responses between SSD patients and controls, and patients were less holistic. Anxiety and psychiatric symptoms were also higher in patients with SSD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim Thyroid gland makes Thyroxine (T4) and Triiodothyronine (T3) hormones. These hormones are really effective in regulating and control of basal metabolism. The purpose of this study was to assess the effect of hydroalcoholic extract of Terfezia Boundary (TB) on the serum level of thyroid hormones. Methods & Materials In this experimental study, 30 male Wistar rats (weighing 200±10 g) were selected and divided into five groups of 6 including control, sham (received normal saline) and three experimental groups received TB with 75, 150 and 300 mg/kg doses via intraperitoneal injection for 14 days. Samples from all groups were collected at the end of the 14th day directly from the heart to evaluate thyroid hormone. The data were statistically analyzed in SPSS V. 12. Ethical Considerations This study was approved by the Research Ethics Committee of Ardabil University of Medical Sciences (Code: IR.ARUMS.REC.1396.48). Results The results of this study showed that the T3 and T4 levels in the experimental groups 2 (150 mg/kg) and 3 (300 mg/kg) increased significantly compared to the control group (P<0.001 and P<0.01, respectively). The Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) level in the experimental groups 1 (75 mg/kg), 2 (150 mg/kg) and 3 (300 mg/kg) decreased significantly compared to the control group (P<0.05, P<0.001, P<0.001, respectively). Conclusion Hydroalcoholic extract of TB can increase the serum levels of thyroid hormones and reduce TSH level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is an unpredictable disease that can change individuals' lifestyle. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of a Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) program on functional disability of patients with MS. Methods & Materials The is an experimental study with pre-test/post-test/follow up design using control group. The study population consisted of all male and female patients with MS living in Neyshabur county, Iran. Of these, 47 were selected using a convenience sampling technique and randomly assigned into two groups of intervention (n=22) and control (n=25). The intervention group received MBSR therapy for 8 sessions, while the control group received no intervention. The follow-up was performed after one month. Subjects’ functional disability was measured by using the World Health Organization Disability Assessment questionnaire. The collected data were analyzed using SPSS v.21 software usingrepeated measurements Analysis of Variance (ANOVA). Ethical Considerations This study obtained its ethical approval from the Research Ethics Committee of Neyshabur University of Medical Sciences (code: IR. NUMS.REC.1397.004) Results The results of univariate ANOVA showed the significant effect of time and the interaction effect of time and group on functional disability of samples. The results of between-group ANOVA a significant difference between the intervention and control groups in functional disability (p <0.05). Pairwise comparison of the interaction effect of time and group showed a significant difference between the pre-test, post-test and follow-up scores (P = 0.001), but no significant difference was reported between the posttest and follow-up scores. Conclusion The MBSR program could reduce the functional disability in patients with MS due to ease of treatment, faster patient education, and the short duration of intervention sessions.. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim Psychological factors play a significant role in the exacerbation of cardiovascular diseases. This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of teaching emotion regulation skill (based on dialectical behavioral therapy) on cognitive emotion regulation and Quality of Life (QoL) of patients with cardiovascular diseases. Methods and Materials The present study has a quasi-experimental design with pretest-posttest and the control group. The statistical population of the study included all patients with cardiovascular diseases in Kermanshah City, Iran in 2018. Among them, 30 participants were selected by simple random sampling method. Then, they were randomly assigned to the two groups of experimental and control (each group 15 patients). We performed the intervention of excited ordering education based on dialectical behavioral therapy for the experimental group in eight 90-minute sessions, while the control group did not receive any intervention during this period. To collect study information, we used a short form of the emotional cognitive regulation questionnaire and MacNew Quality of Life Questionnaire. To analyze the data, we used the multivariate analysis of covariance in SPSS V. 20. Ethical Considerations The Research Ethics Committee of Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences approved this study (Code: IR.KUMS.REC.1397.39). Results The results showed that the scores of Positive Cognitive-Emotional Strategies and quality of life of cardiovascular patients after training of emotional regulation skills based on dialectical behavioral therapy in experimental group significantly increased in comparison with control group, and also Negative Strategies Scores were decreased (P<0.01). Conclusion Based on our positive study results, we recommend the therapists to use psychological treatments as complementary therapies for these patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim Clostridium difficile is the main cause of Antibiotic-Associated Diarrhea (AAD) in the hospital setting. Today, the use of probiotics for the prevention and treatment of AAD and colitis is increasing. In this study, we investigated the effect of probiotic yogurt on the frequency of Clostridium difficile. Methods and Materials In this randomized clinical trial study, 132 elderly patients admitted to the infectious ward of Vali-e-Asr Hospital in Arak, who were under antibiotic treatment, were randomly divided into two groups, case (yogurt probiotic, 200 mg/d for 8 days) and control group (common yogurt). All patients were trained about the signs of colitis. We evaluated the colitis signs and the presence of Clostridium difficile by Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) and compared them between the groups. The obtained data were analyzed with appropriate statistical tests in SPSS V. 16. Ethical Considerations The Research Ethics Committee of Arak University of Medical Sciences approved this study (Code: 10-165-93). Also, it was registered at the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (Code: IRCT2016092229915N1). Results Clostridium difficile was detected in 4 (6.1%) patients of the case, and 1 (1.5%) patient of the control group, at the beginning of the study. There was no significant difference between the frequency of Clostridium difficile and colitis syndrome between two groups at the end of the study (P>0.05). Conclusion Probiotic yogurt has no significant effect in reducing the frequency of Clostridium difficile and colitis syndrome in our study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]