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Background and Aims: Idiopathic osteosclerosis is an asymptomatic local growth of cortical bone and is discovered incidentally on panoramic radiographs. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the frequency of idiopathic osteosclerosis and its radiographic features in panoramic images of patients referred to the Department of Maxillofacial Radiology, Faculty of Dentistry, Arak University of Medical Sciences (Iran) in 2022-2023. Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 460 panoramic images from the radiology department of Arak Faculty of Dentistry were randomly selected and analyzed. The demographic information of patients, frequency of idiopathic osteosclerosis, location, and also its relationship with adjacent teeth in terms of proximity to lamina dura and periodontal ligament and radiographic features in terms of size and morphology were evaluated. The data were analyzed using the SPSS24 software. Results: Panoramic images of 460 patients (266 men and 194 women) with an average age of 38.12 (11.75) years were evaluated. The frequency of idiopathic osteosclerosis was 6.1% (28 images). 92.9% of the lesions were in the lower jaw and 46.4% of them were near the premolar teeth. In 39.3% of the cases, the lesion was adjacent to the periodontal ligament and laminadora of the tooth. In 3.6% of the cases, it was associated with a small displacement of the adjacent tooth, and 17.9% was associated with tooth root resorption. According to the results, there was no correlation between the incidence of this lesion with age and gender (P>0.05). Conclusion: According to the findings of this study, the frequency of idiopathic osteosclerosis in the patients referred to Arak dental school was reported as 6.1%. Most of these lesions were observed in the back of the lower jaw and thus, it is important to be able to distinguish this lesion from the radiopaque lesions of the jaw which need treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. More than 1 million colorectal cancers (CRC) are diagnosed annually. This cancer is the cause of 600,000 deaths, and many of these deaths can be reduced by screening. Colonoscopy is the best screening method and tool to diagnose CRC, but it causes anxiety and worry in patients. In addition, no appropriate tool has so far been introduced for assessing anxiety in these patients. Accordingly, the present study aimed to design and psychometrically evaluate a tool for assessing anxiety in patients undergoing colonoscopy. Methods. This methodological study used a descriptive-cross-sectional approach to design a psychometric questionnaire. To this end, 106 patients participated in this research, and the questionnaire was completed online. The validity of the list and the analysis of its main components were determined through exploratory factor analysis with varimax rotation and confirmatory factor analysis. The reliability of the tool was also checked with Cronbach’s alpha. Results. Overall, 20 terms of the questionnaire were examined by exploratory analysis, and 5 factors explained 57.76% of the total variance. The internal consistency of the tool with Cronbach’s alpha was 0.91. Conclusion. The findings of the research revealed that the tool for assessing anxiety in patients undergoing colonoscopy with 20 items and 5 factors has adequate validity and reliability and can be used to assess the anxiety of colonoscopy patients. Practical Implications. The results of this research can change policies in the field of treatment to reduce the anxiety of colonoscopy patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. One of the common treatments for prostate cancer is radical prostatectomy, which is performed in different ways. One of the advantages of the nerve bundle preservation method is better exposure, decrease in rectal damage the lower rectum. In addition, the possibility of a positive margin is less. Therefore, this study aimed to examine the results of using the high anterior release (HAR) technique in radical open prostatectomy surgery. Methods. In this cross-sectional study, after examining patients and their entry into the study and obtaining their medical records, questions were asked to assess erectile function and urinary incontinence. The prostate-specific antigen level was checked before and after the operation. In addition, the average surgical time, blood loss, and hospitalization time were evaluated. Finally, the data were analyzed using the SPSS statistical analysis program, version 19. Results. In this study, 102 patients underwent radical prostatectomy, with an average age of 62.33 years. About 56.9% of patients had stage t2b. During the 6-month follow-up after surgery, 70.5% of patients had complete urinary continence. Data analysis demonstrated that there is a direct relationship between urinary incontinence, with a history of radiotherapy (P<0.001), and the stage of the disease (P=0.019). After surgery, 61.8% of patients were satisfied with the erection function . Conclusion. The results of this study revealed that urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction are relatively common complications of this surgery. However, compared to other similar studies, the incidence of these two complications is lower. Practical Implications. Urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction are relatively prevalent complications of radical prostatectomy surgery using the HAR technique. Nonetheless, the incidence of these two complications is lower compared to other similar studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. The coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) is one of the most important public health issues, and the evaluation and improvement of COVID-19 health literacy and self-care can be effective in preventing its spread. This study was conducted to investigate the health literacy of COVID-19 and its relationship with self-care among the health ambassadors of Urmia in 2021. Methods. In this descriptive-analytical study, 400 health ambassadors of Urmia were selected using the cluster random sampling method. The data-gathering tool was a questionnaire, including questions about self-care, COVID-19 health literacy, and demographic information. The data were analyzed by SPSS 19 using analysis of variance and regression tests. Results. COVID-19-related health literacy was reported to be at a good level (63.5%) in most health ambassadors. In addition, it had a statistically significant relationship with the level of education and economic status. Similarly, there was a significant relationship between self-care and demographic characteristics such as age, gender, level of education, occupation, and economic status (P>0.05). On the other hand, according to data analysis results, with an increase in health literacy related to COVID-19, regression modeling could predict 22% of self-care behaviors in the participants of the present study. Conclusion. Overall, there is a need for interventions by healthcare professionals for training to increase health literacy related to COVID-19 that results in self-care and adoption of health behaviors in health ambassadors, given the significance of COVID)19-related health literacy and its effects on self-care in these ambassadors. Practical Implications. The findings of this study can be presented to the Deputy of Health and healthcare providers so that actions can be taken to promote health literacy and self-care and prevent similar epidemics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Nurses with intelligence and moral reasoning can perform well and be effective in their relationships with colleagues, patients, and companions. The clinical competence of nurses is the primary concern of healthcare systems. The present study aimed to assess the relationship between moral intelligence, moral reasoning, and clinical competence of nurses. Material & Methods: This descriptive-analytical correlational study was conducted on 110 nurses who were selected via convenience sampling in the teaching hospitals of Ilam in 2022. Data collection tools were demographic characteristics form, Link and Keel's moral intelligence, the Nursing Clinical Competence Questionnaire by Liu et al., and the Nursing Dilemma Test by Chrisham. Data were analyzed in SPSS software (version 16) using the Pearson correlation coefficient. The level of statistical significance was 0.05. Results: The majority of subjects were women (54.5%) with a bachelor's degree in nursing (87.3%), official employment (61.8%), with a work experience of 1-5 years (50%), and mean age of 30.98±5.83 years. The mean scores of moral intelligence, moral reasoning, and clinical competence were reported as 157.59±26.60, 36.51±16.17, and 136.65±46.08, respectively. There was a direct and significant correlation between moral intelligence and clinical competence (r=0.517; P=0.001), moral intelligence and moral reasoning (r=0.444; P=0.001), as well as moral reasoning and clinical competence (r=0.802; P=0.001). Discussion & Conclusion: Considering the direct and significant relationship between the variables, it is recommended that nurses' awareness of moral intelligence, moral reasoning, and clinical competency be raised through clinical training courses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Endometriosis (EMS) is a female reproductive system disease in which uterine-like cells grow in other areas of the body and outside the uterus. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) play a major role in the degradation of the extracellular matrix and the pathogenesis of endometriosis. The present study is the first to investigate the possible association of MMP-2 (rs7201) and MMP-9 (rs17576) genetic variants with susceptibility to EMS in Iran. Material & Methods: This case-control study was performed on 100 healthy control women and 100 patients with EMS. The MMP-2 and MMP-9 genotypes were determined using the Tetra amplification-refractory mutation system-polymerase chain reaction (ARMS-PCR) Technique. Data were analyzed in SPSS software. Results: There were statistically significant differences in the distribution of MMP-9 AG (OR: 4.11, 95% CI: 2.13-7.91, P<0.001) and GG (OR: 11.33, 95% CI: 4.23-30.3; P <0.001) genotypes between the control and patient groups. The MMP-9 G allele was associated with an increased risk of endometriosis (P<0.001). Moreover, a significant association was detected between MMP-2 rs7201 polymorphism and EMS. MMP-2 AC genotype had a protective effect on endometriosis (OR: 0.27. 95% CI: 0.15-49%; P<0.001), and the MMP-2 A allele was associated with decreased risk of endometriosis (P<0.001). Discussion & Conclusion: As evidenced by the results of this study, MMP-9 rs17576 and MMP-2 rs7201 polymorphisms were associated with EMS in the studied population in Iran. Further studies with larger samples of different ethnicities need to confirm these results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The use of functionalized metal nanoparticles against cancer cells has gained assiduous attention. This study aimed to assess the inhibitory activity of iron oxide nanoparticles coated with glucose and conjugated with coumarin (Fe3O4@GluCoumarin) on breast cancer cell line, as well as the expression of the caspase-8 and caspase-9 genes. Material & Methods: The physical and chemical properties of nanoparticles were evaluated using FT-IR, XRD, EDS-map, and electron microscope imaging. The toxicity of the synthesized nanoparticles was determined using the MTT assay, and the 50% inhibitory dose (IC50) was calculated. Moreover, the effect of nanoparticles on apoptosis induction was investigated by measuring the expression level of the caspase 8 and 9 genes and flow cytometry analysis. Statistical analyses were performed in SPSS software. One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was employed to assess significant differences between nanoparticle-treated and control groups. A p-value of less than 0.05 was regarded as statistically significant. Results: The synthesis of Fe3O4@Glu-Coumarin nanoparticles was confirmed by physicochemical tests, including FT-IR, XRD, EDS-mapping, and electron microscope imaging. The nanoparticles had dimensions of 25 to 50 nm and contained Fe, O, and C elements. The treatment of MCF-7 cells with nanoparticles caused a significant decrease in the survival of cancer cells, and the IC50 was 93μg/ml. The exposure of cells to the nanoparticles caused a marked increase in the expression of caspases 8 and 9 by 2.6 and 2.9 folds, respectively, compared to the control group. In addition, the frequency of apoptotic cells after treatment with the nanoparticles increased from 2.21% to 84%.. Discussion & Conclusion: The results of this study pointed out that Fe3O4@GluCoumarin increased the expression of the caspases 8 and 9 genes in breast cancer cells and, as a result, can activate the intrinsic and extrinsic apoptotic pathways, thereby inhibiting the proliferation of cancer cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives Evaluating the attitudes and beliefs of different classes of society is very important in attracting donors. This study aimed to evaluate the attitude of students of Alborz University of Medical Sciences regarding blood donation and investigate the obstacles in this field. Materials and Methods A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on 330 students of different fields of Alborz University of Medical Sciences in 2023. A questionnaire containing demographic questions and main research questions (12 questions to evaluate the causes of blood donation-7 questions to evaluate the reasons for not donating again in donors - 20 questions to evaluate the factors preventing blood donation in non-donors-12 questions about the general attitude to blood donation in donors and non-donors) were used to collect data. Data analysis was done with SPSS21 software and descriptive statistics. Results The average age was 22.85 ± 0.26 years and only 11.5% had history of donating blood. The most important motivating factors include altruistic causes (100%), feeling of responsibility (96.9%), moral and personal commitment (87.5%), participation in social activities (75%) and helping patients (71.9%). The most important reasons preventing blood donation are fear of dizziness and weakness (77.2% and 64.1%, respectively), lack of proper information (67%), fear of hand burning and hematoma (42.4%) and fear of anemia (47.8%). Conclusions Despite the low donation rate, most students had a positive attitude towards blood donation. In order to encourage students to donate blood, the necessary information should be provided through holding appropriate educational programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives Human lymphotropic virus type I mainly infects lymphocytes. For the detection of this virus, mainly nucleated cells are evaluated. Due to the short longevity of cells, sample collection is a challenge. The purpose of the study was to investigate the presence of HTLV-1 virus in genomic DNA released from cells in plasma and to determine its viral load in Western blotpositive blood donors Materials and Methods In this descriptive study, 30 HTLV-1 positive Western blot donors were evaluated. Using an extraction kit, genomic DNA was extracted from plasma and isolated PBMC using Ficol. A nested PCR test was used to confirm the presence of HTLV-1 virus. A real-time PCR quantitative test by Sybergreen method was used to determine the amount of virus load Results The average age of subjects was 42.9 ± 13.5 years; 93.3% of them were male and 6.6% female. LTR gene region was detected by nested PCR method in 80% of plasma and 100% of PBMC samples. The median viral loads in plasma and PBMC were 1.90 Copies/µL and 20 copies/106 PBMC, respectively. Conclusions To detect the HTLV-1 virus by molecular method, the HTLV-1 provirus DNA released from cells, in the plasma can be used when peripheral blood mononuclear cells are unavailable. It has also been observed that the virus load in the plasma of asymptomatic carriers is approximately 10 times lower than in PBMC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives Patient blood management reduces unnecessary transfusions to improve patients' health. Familiarity of physicians with this program is necessary to improve the outcomes of patients health. This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of education on the level of knowledge of residents in medical centers in Yazd, 2022-2023. Materials and Methods The study was a before and after quasi-experimental intervention. 57 medical residents participated. A 20 question questionnaire measured the residents' knowledge level in patient blood management before and after the education. The validity of the questionnaire was measured by a survey of experienced physicians in the management of patient's blood. Reliability with Cronbach's alpha test was 0.8. The data were analyzed using t and Paired-t tests in SPSS 20 software. Results 35 participants (61.4%) were women and 22 (38.6%) were men. Their mean age was 30.58 ± 5.45 years.The average knowledge scores were 9.38 ± 3.77 and 14.01 ± 3.50 before and after education, respectively (p < 0.001). The lowest response rate before instructions pertained to evaluation of patients' anemia before surgery and knowledge of autologous blood usage. The knowledge score had no significant relationship with age, sex, blood prescription history, and medical practice duration. Conclusions Education effectively increased the knowledge of residents. It is suggested to include hold targeted educational programs with emphasis on the areas of anemia management and the use of autologous blood, publish educational guides, and include transfusion medicine and the patient's blood management program in medical education curricula. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The COVID-19 crisis exerts a marked impact on the quality of life of individuals experiencing grief. Therefore, the present study aimed to assess the effectiveness of life quality improvement treatment and emotion-focused therapy on the cognitive flexibility and vitality of individuals affected by grief due to COVID-19. Material & Methods: This research employed a quasi-experimental pretest-posttest design with two experimental groups and one control group. In 2021, 30 individuals affected by grief were purposefully selected and randomly assigned to three groups: life quality improvement treatment, emotion-focused therapy, and the control group. Data were collected using the Cognitive Flexibility Questionnaire and the Oxford Happiness Questionnaire. The first experimental group received emotion-focused therapy (Leslie Greenberg, 2012), while the second experimental group received life quality improvement treatment (Fresch, 2006). Data were analyzed in SPSS software (version 27) using analysis of covariance. Results: The results demonstrated that both emotion-focused therapy and therapy based on improving quality of life had a positive effect on behavioral flexibility and social vitality, and the effectiveness of therapy based on improving quality of life on the vitality of bereaved people was more than emotion-focused therapy. Discussion & Conclusion: Considering the effectiveness of both treatments on the flexibility of action and the effectiveness of the treatment to improve the quality of life and vitality of people with grief, psychotherapists can benefit from both two treatments to improve the quality of life and vitality of people with the experience of grief to take. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. The present study aimed at determining the effect of emotional schema therapy on the irrational beliefs and body image of women with body deformity disorders. Methods. This was semi-experimental research with a pre-test-post-test design with a control group. The statistical population of this research included all women with body deformity disorders who were referred to the psychiatric centers of the 5th district of Tehran in 2021. Using the available sampling method, 30 people were selected from those who were referred to the mentioned centers. The research tools included the Ahvaz Irrational Belief and the Self-Body Multidimensional Questionnaires. Data were analyzed using multivariate analysis of covariance in SPSS-24. Results. Emotional schema therapy was effective on the irrational beliefs (the total score) and body image of women with body deformity disorders. In addition, emotional schema therapy could affect irrational beliefs in the components of expecting approval from others, avoiding problems, and showing emotional irresponsibility, but it had no significant effect on the component of being helpless against change. Conclusion. According to the findings, emotional schema therapy can be an effective method for correcting the irrational beliefs and body image of women with body deformity disorders. Practical Implications. Based on the results, therapists can use emotional schema therapy as one of the most efficient methods for treating negative beliefs and stereotypes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Child abuse is considered a major public health issue worldwide. The knowledge and attitudes of parents and health service providers are of great importance in the prevention and control of child abuse. Therefore, this study was conducted to investigate the knowledge, attitudes, and performance of healthcare providers (HCPs) and healthcare clients (HCCs) regarding child abuse in Tabriz. Methods. This cross-sectional study was performed among 445 HCPs and 390 HCCs in Tabriz in 2021. The samples were selected via random sampling methods, and the information was gathered through a researcher-made questionnaire. In this study, knowledge, attitudes, and performance were considered dependent variables, and demographic variables were regarded as independent variables. Multiple linear regression was used to evaluate the association between dependent and independent variables. The data were analyzed using Stata statistical software (version 17). Results. The mean score of the knowledge, attitudes, and performance of HCPs was 73.2, 87.89, and 85.12, respectively. The mean score of knowledge, attitudes, and performance of HCCs was 58.81, 64.3, and 48.18, respectively. The knowledge and performance of HCPs had a significant relationship with passing a training course in the field of child abuse, jobs, and education, so that passing the training course increased the knowledge score by 3.33 units. In addition, the knowledge and attitude of HCCs were significantly associated with gender, education, and marital status, so that the knowledge score of people with postgraduate education was 8.03 units higher than that of those having a diploma. Conclusion. Overall, the knowledge, attitude, and performance of HCPs toward child abuse were favorable. Therefore, they may have a high potential for detecting child abuse and developing preventive initiatives. Additionally, considering the medium level of knowledge and performance of HCCs toward child abuse, it seems necessary to design family education programs for future parents and launch community-based support services in health centers to prevent child abuse. Practical Implications. The findings of this study can be presented to the policymakers of the Ministry of Health to provide an opportunity to improve the knowledge, attitude, and performance of HCPs and HCCs by developing national guidelines for dealing with child abuse. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Given the fact that there is contradictory evidence regarding the effectiveness of computerized cognitive rehabilitation interventions, the present study intended to compare the potential effects of non-computer and computer-based cognitive rehabilitation interventions on the memory of stroke patients in Tabriz. Methods. To this end, we conducted a quasi-experimental study with a pretest-posttest control group design. The population of the study included individuals who were admitted to a hospital in Tabriz, Iran, for the treatment of stroke. After identifying patients who met the inclusion criteria on the base of purposive sampling,, 45 stroke patients were randomly selected and assigned to two experimental groups (15 in the computer-based group and 15 in the non-computer group) and one control group (15 in the waiting list). To measure the dependent variables of the research, Wechsler’s Digit Span subscale and Folstein’s MMSE were used. The cognitive rehabilitation therapy was performed three times a week for 7 weeks for the non-computer experimental group. The computer-based rehabilitation intervention using Captain’s Log software was delivered during the same period. Results. The results show that both computer-based and non-computer cognitive rehabilitation interventions are equally effective in improving working memory (visual and auditory) of stroke patients. Conclusion. It can be concluded that the unsubstantiated orientation towards the quality and quantity of using new computer-based interventions is not desirable and that the potential of both computer and non-computer interventions should be used to improve the memory of stroke patients. Practical Implications. Based on the findings, specialists can use the potential of both non-computer and computer-based cognitive rehabilitation interventions in improving auditory/visual working memory function of patients with stroke. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims: To be successful in root canal therapy, the dentists must be aware of the possible variation in the root canal and should know not only the natural anatomy of the pulp, but also a variety of possible morphologies. Frst of all, the dentists should be familiar with the possible anatomy of the root canal and then with the extraction of organic tissue from pulp chamber and root canal, increasing the chances of treatment success. Therefore, in this study, we decided to investigate the internal anatomy of root canals in the maxillary permanent molar teeth in Khoy city. Materials and Methods: In this in vitro study, 100 extracted human molars in Khoy city in West Azerbaijan province were collected. In all teeth, the access cavities were prepared, then they were decalcified and colored with India ink and evaluated by clearing technique. Data were collected based on Vertucci's classification which entered into SPSS23 software. The descriptive statistics in the form of numbers and percentages in tables and graphs were used to analyze the data. Results: The most common type observed in the mesiobuccal root of the first molars was type IV by 44%, in distobuccal root was type I by 92%, and in palatal root was type I by 94%. Also, in the mesiobuccal root of the second molars, the most common type was type I by 70%, in distobuccal root was type I by 94%, and in palatal root was type I by 96%. Conclusion: The mesiobuccal root of the first molar had the most variation in the internal anatomy. Also, the most common type of Vertucci in the mesiobuccal root of first molar was type IV and in the other roots of the first and second molar teeth was type I. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The family's emotional climate and resilience are among the protective factors against drug use by teenagers. Aim: The present study aimed to predict addiction susceptibility in male adolescents based on the family's emotional climate with the mediation of resilience. Methods: The research method was of the descriptive correlation type and the study's statistical population included all male students of public schools in Tehran in the first and second semesters of 2017-2018, from which 267 people were selected by multi-stage random sampling. The research tools included the Affective Family Climate Scale, the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale, and the Addiction Susceptibility Questionnaire-Adolescents Version. The data of the present research were analyzed using the structural equation modeling method and Imus software. Results: The present study's results showed that the family's emotional climate (β=-0.468, P=0.001) and resilience (β=-0.246, P=0.001) predict addiction susceptibility in male adolescents negatively and meaningfully. The family's emotional climate predicts addiction susceptibility in male adolescents through the mediation of resilience (β=0.083, P=0.001). Conclusion: The results of the present study emphasize the importance of the role of the family, both in terms of creating a favorable emotional climate and in terms of playing a role, as a suitable model in the emergence of behavior. It is suggested that parents also protect their children from the influence of peers and the use of tobacco and drugs by providing a suitable emotional climate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Inefficiency in the process of emotion regulation prevents the emergence of efficient behaviors and appropriate coping responses to the situation in marital relationships by the individual, which seems to be influenced by relational beliefs. Aim: The present study aimed to formulate a structural model of marital satisfaction based on relational beliefs with the mediating role of cognitive emotion regulation in married women. Methods: The current research was descriptive-correlation based on the method of structural equations and the statistical population of the present study consisted of all married women between the ages of 30 and 50 who were referred to counseling centers in Tehran in the first six months of 2022, among them 371 women were selected using the random clusters sampling method. The research tools included ENRICH Marital Satisfaction Scale, Relationship Belief Inventory, and Cognitive Emotion Regulation Questionnaire. For data analysis, Pearson's correlation method and structural equations were used with SPSS version 22 and AMOS version 24 software. Results: The results of the present study showed there is an indirect and significant relationship between relational beliefs and marital satisfaction with the mediation of positive emotional cognitive regulation (P=0.003, Z=-2.11). There is an indirect and significant relationship between relational beliefs and marital satisfaction with the mediation of negative emotional cognitive regulation (P=0.009, Z=-1.78). Conclusion: The results showed that marital satisfaction is predicted based on communication beliefs with the mediating role of cognitive emotion regulation in married women. It is suggested that couple therapists and family therapists pay attention to relational beliefs and cognitive emotion regulation strategies derived from them in counseling and couple therapy to increase marital satisfaction [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Emotional regulation strategies are among the effective factors in improving the quality of life and general health of mothers with children with autism and attention-deficit/ hyperactivity disorder. Aim: This study aimed to determine the effectiveness of emotion regulation training on the quality of life of mothers of children with autism and separation anxiety disorder. Methods: The research method was semi-experimental with a pre-test-post-test design with a control group. The statistical population of the research included all mothers with children with autism spectrum disorder and separation anxiety disorder who were referred to the private offices of psychiatrists in Borujerd city in 2019, and 30 of them were selected by convenience sampling. The sample was homogenized and divided into two groups. The participants responded to the Beach Center Family Quality of Life Scale (2006) for the pre-test and post-test. After 8 sessions of 120 minutes of emotion regulation training for the mothers of the experimental groups, statistical analysis of covariance and SPSS-24 software were used to analyze the data. Results: In the present study, the average score of the family quality of life in the post-test stage in the group of mothers of children with autism and children with separation anxiety disorder was significantly higher than the mothers of the control group (P=0.001 and f=21.194). The results of the Bonferroni test and the comparison of means show that the average score of quality of life in the group of mothers with children with autism was higher than the group of mothers with children with separation anxiety disorder (P=0.012). Conclusion: Emotion regulation training is effective on the quality of life of mothers of children with autism and separation anxiety disorder, and it is recommended for mothers with children with neurodevelopmental disorders and attachment disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Identifying related and influencing factors on marital satisfaction is of particular necessity and importance. It seems that attachment styles and loneliness are among the factors affecting marital satisfaction. Aim: The present study aimed to determine the structural relationships between attachment styles and marital satisfaction with the mediation of loneliness. Methods: The research method was descriptive-correlational and the statistical population of this study included all women and men who were referred to family counseling centers in Ilam City in 2019 with complaints of marital problems of which 320 people were selected by convenience sampling method. To collect data Adult Attachment Questionnaire by Simpson (1990), ENRICH Marital Satisfaction Scale (1993) and The University of California Loneliness Scale (1996) were used. The collected data were analyzed in SPSS .24 and Amos. 24. Results: In the present study, the results showed that loneliness and marital satisfaction had a negative and significant relationship (β=-.258, P=.001). Avoidant attachment (β=-.189, P=.001) and anxious attachment (β=-.138, P=.001) and marital satisfaction had a negative and significant relationship. Loneliness in the relationship between secure attachment (β=.149, P=.001), anxiety (β=-.043, P=.048) and avoidance (β=-.140, P=.001) and marital satisfaction had a mediating role. Conclusion: The results showed that loneliness mediates the relationship between secure, anxious and avoidant attachment and marital satisfaction. Therefore, it is suggested that couples and family therapists, in counseling and couple therapy, to increase marital satisfaction, should also pay attention to people's attachment styles manifestations and feelings of loneliness caused by it. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Marriage satisfaction is one of the main determinants of the quality of life of each person, and marital satisfaction can predict the stability and instability of a relationship. Aim: This research was conducted with the aim of developing a model of marital satisfaction based on marital expectations, emotional maturity and aspects of love by mediating marital conflicts in married women. Methods: The descriptive data collection method was correlational. The current study's statistical population was comprised of all married women who referred to the community centers of Tehran in 1401, and 550 by the available sampling method people were selected from among them. In this research, Enrich's (1998) marital satisfaction tools, Miller and Tedder's (2011) expectations from married life, Singh and Bhargava's (1991) emotional maturity, Barati, and Sanai Zaker's (1375) marital conflicts, and Sternberg's love triangle (1989) were used. Structural equation modeling method and SPSS and PLS software were used for data analysis. Results: The findings of the research showed that marital expectations and emotional maturity and dimensions of love had a significant effect on marital satisfaction directly and indirectly due to marital conflicts (P<0.05). Conclusion: Based on the research findings, marital satisfaction is influenced by marital expectations, emotional maturity, and aspects of lovemaking. It is suggested to researchers and therapists to examine marital expectations, emotional maturity and the dimensions of love and subsequent marital conflicts in preventing and planning treatment for couples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims: Oral health literacy plays an important role in reducing oral health disparities. Evaluation of oral health literacy can be done at individual and population levels. This study was conducted with the aim of investigating oral health literacy among students of Shiraz University of Medical Sciences in 2023. Materials and Methods: This study was descriptive, applied and cross-sectional. The research population included the students of different academic levels of Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, except the final semester students. The sample size was calculated based on the total number of students studying at different levels at Shiraz University of Medical Sciences in the second half of the academic year in 2023 using an appropriate statistical formula. Sampling was done in a stratified-random manner according to faculty, field, and level of education. The oral health literacy of the participants based on education level, age, and gender was measured by the oral health literacy adult questionnaire (OHL Adults Questionnaire: OHL-AQ). Data analysis was done using SPSS 27 software and descriptive statistics (mean, standard deviation, percentage), independent ttest, Kruskal-Wallis, and Tukey test. Results: The findings indicated that the average oral health literacy score of students was 14.75±1.37. Also, there was a statistically significant relationship between the average oral health literacy score of students and the parameters of education level, gender, and age of students (P-value < 0.05). This indictaed that the oral health literacy of students increased in the doctoral level and also with increasing age. In addition, the female students had higher oral health literacy. Conclusion: Based on the results, the oral health literacy among Shiraz medical students was high. People with higher education level and age had higher level of oral and dental health literacy than people with lower education level and age. Oral and dental health literacy level was higher in girls than boys. It can be suggested that a 1) suitable platform be provided in order to improve the level of education of the society, leading to the improvement of the oral health literacy of the people; 2) regular dental examinations in order to increase the oral health literacy of the society is encouraged and promoted, especially in lower year students; and 3) research in effective training in the field of oral health literacy to increase the oral health literacy of people in the society. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: Considering to the new conditions compared to the traditional concept, military training courses should be designed in such a way that becomes efficient, effective, and works properly and practical. In contrast, their physical training develops from other types of aspects such as metabolic and hormonal. Resistance exercise (RE) with different types of military and training equipments, such as gas masks, and training masks that performs with a low intensity, results in different physiological responses and effects. Therefore, the main goal of this research was to study the effect of two types of military and training masks during resistance sports exercise on lactate and growth hormone responses in the AJA simulated training program. Methods: In this study, the case-crossover method was used. Twelve military personnel trained (with an average age of 27.75 ± 6.45 years and a body mass index of 25.41 ± 3.43 kg/m²) were randomly chosen and examined in three different physiological training methods: traditional (control) training (Intensity: 1RM 75%), training with military and training masks (1RM 30%). The RE consisted of performing 4 squat movements with a total of 65 repetitions. Blood samples were collected before and immediately after the workout. The data were analyzed using the two-way analysis of variance method with repeated measurements, with SPSS software (version 23) at a significance level of P<0.05. Results: All three types of exercise caused a significant increase in lactate (P<0.05) and no increase in growth hormone except the traditional method immediately after the exercise, but there was a significant difference between the groups in the amount of lactate, but not in the amount of growth hormone (P<0.05). Conclusion: Studies have shown that both methods of resistance sports activity with a military mask and exercise such as routine resistance activity can cause a significant increase in blood lactate after exercise. This research confirms the effectiveness of this type of training on lactate increase response and can meet the goals expected from high-intensity training. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: Veterans are one of the sections of society that suffer various injuries in different dimensions of life due to physical problems, therefore their quality of life is affected more than any other factor. Therefore, the present research was conducted to investigate the model of predicting the quality of life of veterans based on schema modes, moral injury, and existential anxiety. Methods: The current research is descriptive and correlational type. The statistical population studied included all the veterans covered by Shahid Foundation of Isfahan, and 320 veterans were selected from that. Quality of life questionnaire, schema modes, questionnaire, moral injury questionnaire, and existential anxiety questionnaire were used to measure research variables. Finally, the data were analized in SPSS software version 24, Lisrel version 11, and Amos version 26. Results: The model for predicting the quality of life of veterans based on schema modes, moral injury, and existential anxiety is appropriate (P>0.01). Therefore, based on the results, it can be stated that the most important effective, and significant factor that has reduced the quality of life of the veterans in the 8 years of the holy defense is existential anxiety. Conclusion: According to the results of the research, it can be inferred that by examining and developing treatment packages to reduce existential anxiety, it is possible to help improve the quality of life of veterans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims: Nowadays, the requirement of any policy-making at the national and regional level is to know the level of knowledge of people about oral health and ways to prevent dental caries. This study examined the habits, actions and economic level of elementary school students in Qazvin city in 2017-2018. Also, the effects of peer group social network on behaviors related to oral health and obesity was investigated in order to find the way for interventions making it more effective in this social group. Materials and Methods: In this descriptive-analytical study, 145 students participated. They were in the 3nd and 6th grades of elementary school in the academic year of 2017-2018. The questionnaire used in this study had 20 questions and 4 main sections. The main parts of this questionnaire included demographic characteristics, behavior and habits related to oral health, oral health knowledge of students and families, and socio-economic status. Data were collected through clinical examinations and through valid questionnaires and evaluated using SPSS and Excel software. Results: According to the results of Pearson's correlation analysis, a significant correlation was observed between the health knowledge scores of individuals and their friends between both groups of casual and close friends (P<0.01). The correlation between the knowledge of individuals and close friends was significantly stronger (P<0.01). Also, there was a significant relationship between socio- economic status and behaviors related to oral health (P<0.05). There was also a significant positive relationship between the number of times close friends brushing their teeth in a social network (P<0.001). This connection was not observed in the friends’ network. Conclusion: This study determined that close friends can be effective in determining the oral hygiene behaviors of elementary school students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Depression is one of the most common psychological disorders that can affect a person’s mood and change his/her perception of the self and environment. Melilotus officinalis L. plant contains effective substances and antioxidant compounds. Objective The present study aims to investigate the antidepressant effects of alcoholic extract of Melilotus officinalis L. in male rats. Methods In this experimental research, 42 male rats were divided into six groups of 7 including control (normal saline), negative control (reserpine), positive control (reserpine+fluoxetine) and three reserpine groups treated by intraperitoneal injection of 100, 200, 400 mg/kg doses of alcoholic extract of Melilotus officinalis L. Behavioral tests including forced swim test (FST) and tail suspension test (TST) were used to evaluate depression, and the antioxidant capacity and malondialdehyde level were also measured. The data were analyzed in SPSS software, version 20 using one-way analysis of variance. The significance level was set at P<0.05. Results The 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg doses of alcoholic extract significantly reduced the duration of immobility in the FST compared to the negative control. In the TST, the doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg showed a significant increase compared to the negative control. The doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg significantly increased the antioxidant capacity of the brain compared to the negative control. The doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg significantly reduced the antioxidant capacity of the brain compared to the negative control. Conclusion The alcoholic extract of Melilotus officinalis L has antidepressant effects similar to fluoxetine probably due to its antioxidant compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Herb shops are important for preparing medicinal plants. Improper packaging can lead to contamination of these plants by various types of microorganisms, fungi and yeasts. Objective This study aims to investigate the prevalence of microbial and fungal contamination in four plants from the Lamiaceae family in herb shops in Rasht, Iran. Methods In this study, 15 samples from mint, rosemary, and wild mint plants, and 16 samples from lemon balm were collected. The samples were diluted and incubated for one hour, then transferred onto Tryptic soy agar culture medium for bacterial enumeration. The sabouraud dextrose agar culture medium was used to count total mold and yeast, while McConkey Broth culture medium was used for specific identification of Escherichia coli. Data analysis was conducted in SPSS software, version 16. For comparing the bacterial and fungal contamination levels in the plant samples with the Pharmacopeial quality standard values, the non-parametric Wilcoxon signed rank test was used. Results Out of 61 plant samples, 59 (73.7%) were contaminated with bacteria, and 60 samples (86.6%) were contaminated with fungi. The number of samples contaminated with Escherichia coli was 27 (44.2%). The mean counts of bacteria and fungi in the plant samples were 3.39×105 and 6.3×105, respectively. Conclusion The microbial contamination in most of the plant samples examined in this study is significantly higher than the permissible limit. It is necessary for health authorities to implement stricter policies for monitoring the quality of natural products in herb shops of Rasht, Iran. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) are a group of conditions that cause dysfunction in the jaw joint, masticatory muscle pain and mouth opening limitations, and affects patients’ ability to eat, practice oral health, and perform other activities of daily living. The etiology of TMDs is not well-known. These disorders have a higher prevalence in women and younger people. Although the benefits of lowlevel laser therapy (LLLT) in treating TMD have been reported, the results vary from study to study. Objective The purpose of this study is to investigate the effectiveness of LLLT in the treatment of TMDs Methods In this narrative review study, a search was conducted in Google Scholar, PubMed, and Scopus databases for randomized clinical trials, case-control studies, and systematic reviews published from 1976 to 2023 using the keywords (Mesh terms) temporomandibular disorder, low-level laser therapy, LLLT, and myofascial pain. Results Of 271 found articles, only 8 were included in the study, of which 6 confirmed that the LLLT was effective in the treatment of TMDs. One article concluded that superluminous devices are more effective than LLLT and one article concluded that LLLT is not effective in treating TMDs. Conclusion The LLLT is effective in the treatment of TMDs and its related disorders, such as masticatory muscle disorder, temporal joint pain, and difficulty in jaw opening. The nuber of studies are limited and definite conclusions cannot be drawn. Therefore, further studies are needed in this field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: Early diagnosis and referral of patients with oral cancer can help reduce mortality, and given that dentists are usually the first group to see oral lesions, it is therefore in an ideal position for early cancer screening. the aim of this study was to investigate the knowledge and attitude of clinical students of Yazd Dental School about oral cancer in the academic year 1300-1499. Methods and material: This descriptive _ croos sectional study was performed By census method on 160 students of 7 to 12 academic semester of Yazd dental school. The questionnaire included demographic information including age, sex, academic semester and average, and questions about knowledge and attitudes about oral cancer. Data were entered into SPSS23 and analyzed using ANOVA, T-TEST. Result: The mean score of knowledge and attitude was 4.85 ± 2.88 out of 10 points and 39.53 ± 4.19 out of 50 points. Knowledge had a significant relationship with age and academic year (p=0.034, P=0.05) but had no significant relationship with gender, and average 0.05 and attitude had no significant relationship with any of the variables. Conclusion: Students' knowledge and attitude about oral cancer is insufficient and there is a greater need for education in this field, so a review of the curriculum and more practical experience to improve education and approaches to change attitudes should be considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims: Oral infections caused by Candida species are increasing worldwide. One of the common topical treatments related to oral candidiasis is nystatin, which has anti-fungal and antimicrobial activity. Common anti-fungal treatments have many side effects and cause drug resistance and repeated recurrence of Candida infection. The use of plant extracts can be a suitable alternative to synthetic drugs such as nystatin. The aim of this study was to compare the anti-fungal effect of Nigella Sativa with nystatin on Candida albicans. Materials and Methods: An experimental study was conducted by referring to the Scientific and Industrial Research Organization of Iran and the standard strain of Candida albicans with PTCC5027 was provided. Ethanol soaking method was used to obtain the Nigella sativa ethanolic extract. Fungal suspension with 0.5 McFarland concentration was cultured in a broth medium. To investigate the anti-candida properties of the Nigella sativa Linn ethanolic extract, Disk diffusion technique was done in a Potato dextrose agar by uniformly inoculating the fungal suspension on the culture medium of potato dextrose agar then using a 100 μl micropipette, the Nigella sativa Linn extract with a concentration of 100 mg/ml and Nystatin in a dose of 0.06 mg was poured on a sterile blank disk and put in the plates and, subsequently the growth inhibition zone of the extract was measured. By diluting the extract and nystatin to 0.09, 0.19, 0.39, 0.78, 1.56, 3.12, 6.25, 12.5, 25.50 the Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) and the Minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC) were obtained using both Microdilution broth and Macrodilution broth. Each experiment was repeated 3 times and the obtained data were statistically analyzed using SPSS ver:25 software and t-test exam. Results: The length of the inhibition zone measured from the Nigella sativa Linn extract was 19.5mm respectively and the length of the inhibition zone obtained by Nystatin was 24.5 mm respectively. Studying the results of the dilution test in both techniques concluded from the Nigella sativa Linn extract showed that the Nigella sativa Linn ethanolic extract at a concentration of 1.56 mg /ml has the least Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) and at a concentration of 3.12 mg/ml it has the lowest Minimum Fungicidal Concentration (MFC). Statistical analysis (T-test) showed that the difference in length of the Nigella sativa Linn inhibition zone with Nystatin (P <0.05) was significant. Conclusion: According to our findings, it seems that the Nigella sativa Linn ethanolic extract is quite effective on the growth of Candida albicans and has an antifungal effect. However, the antifungal effect of Nystatin is significantly higher than the Nigella sativa Linn ethanolic extract. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: Pigmented lesions appear with different manifestations in focal, multifocal and diffuse forms and can also be a symptom of a systemic disease. These lesions have a significant prevalence in the head and neck area. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of pigmented lesions in the head and neck region in patients referred to Razi Hospital in Tehran. Material and Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted on 3000 archived files in Razi Hospital in Tehran in 2018 and 2019. All pigmented lesions in patients under 18 years of age were isolated and analyzed in terms of age, gender, location and histopathological diagnosis. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26 and Chi-square and T-test statistical tests. The significance level of statistical tests was considered less than 0.05. Result: A total of 138 patients under 18 years of age were found with pigmented lesions 56 patients were male (40.6%) and 82 patients were female (59.4%). The average age of the patients was reported to be 11.1 ± 4.6 years. Meanwhile, compound nevus and intradermal nevus lesions were the most prevalent. The most involved sites were cheek (29.7%), nose (16.7%) and head (15.9%). A total of 6 cases of malignant pigmented lesions were found (4.3%). Conclusion: Nevi types are the most common pigmented lesions in this age group and more frequent in check area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: With increasing concerns over the stochastic effects of x-ray radiation in dental radiography, effective education of dental students in this field is important. According to studies, educational softwares enhance learning, therefore the aim of this study was to develop an educational software for dental radiation protection and to compare its effectiveness against classic lectures in Islamic Azad University, Tehran Dental branch. Material and Methods: The study was exploratory in the first stage and a clinical trial in the second. Software was developed based on ADA guideline, using ScreenRecorder and MultimediaBuilder. 46 dental students who have never received any education on dental radiation protection were divided into control (N=22) and test (N=24) groups which have been matched based on the GPA and VARK test results. The test group used the software, while the control group attended a lecture. Students’ learning rates were evaluated by using 2 identical 10-question multichoice tests taken immediately and after two weeks. The results were analyzed in SPSS25 using the Mann-U-Whitney test, independent samples t-test, and Pearson's chi-squared test. Results: Educational software was developed successfully. In both exams, the mean score in the test group was higher than that in the control group by a statistically significant difference (p<0.001). The mean scores of test group and control group were 8.91±1.31 and 6.13±1.67 in the first exam and 6.79±1.69 and 4.90±2.09 in the second one respectively. Conclusion: Multimedia educational software can improve learning of principles and methods of dental radiation protection in dental students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: This research examines the effect of two antioxidants, pomegranate peel extract, and green tea, on the shear bond strength of microhybrid composite on bleached enamel using sixth-generation bonding. Materials and Methods: 44 premolar teeth were used in this study. The samples were divided into 4 groups, Group A: composite restoration without previous bleaching treatment. Group B: Restoration of teeth immediately after bleaching treatment. Group C: Bleaching treatment, then using 5% green tea extract as an antioxidant on the tooth surface, followed by tooth restoration. Group D: Bleaching treatment, then using 5% pomegranate peel extract as an antioxidant on the tooth surface, followed by tooth restoration. For the restoration, the 6th generation Bond SE (Kuraray Dental, Japan) and micro-hybrid composite (3M ESPE, USA) Filtek Z250 were used. To measure the strength of the shear band, the Zwick universal testing machine (Berlin, Germany) was used, and at the end, the types of failure were examined using a stereomicroscope. Calculations were done using PASS II and SPSS 25 software, OneWay ANOVA, Tukey, and homogeneity of variance tests. Results: No significant difference was observed between groups A, C, and D (P>0.99), but between these groups and group B, the amount of shear band strength was significantly different (P<0.001). Conclusion: The use of 5% pomegranate peel extract and green tea increases the shear bond strength of composite to bleached teeth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background & Aim: Up to 60% of breast cancer patients treated with chemotherapy is confronted with cognitive problems, which can have a significant impact on daily activities and quality of life. Therefore, the purpose of the study was to “determine the cognitive function of breast cancer patients receiving adjuvant chemotherapy. Materials & Methods: In this cross-sectional study, the research population was cancer patients referred to the oncology department of Taw Heed Hospital in Sanandaj. All patients were included in the study by census method. The data collection tool in this study was the form of demographic characteristics and cognitive function assessment of cancer patients FACT-cog. To analyze the research data, version 14 of STATA software and descriptive statistics and analytical statistics including independent chi-square t test were used. A significance level of less than 0.05 was considered. Results: In this study, 101 breast cancer patients of Taw Heed Hospital, all of whom were women, were included in the study. Their average age was 44.06 ± 15.15 years. The average duration of disease of the participants was 18.7±23.61 months. The results of the study showed that the average cognitive performance score was (68.32±24.15), which is lower than the average score and in the average range. Conclusions: The results of this study showed that in people with breast cancer who are undergoing chemotherapy, the cognitive function is at an average level, and the necessary training should be done to improve the cognitive function of these patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background & Aim: Puberty is the turning point of passing from childhood and entering adulthood, and the lack of proper knowledge about the functioning of the body during this period and the lack of preparation for menstruation causes fear and negative attitudes about puberty. The present study aims to determine the effectiveness of education on the level of awareness, attitude and performance of teenage girls about menstrual health in high schools. The first secondary school) in Esfarayen city, 2022. Materials & Methods: This study was an intervention type, in which 413 female students of the first secondary school of Esfarayen city were selected using Cochran's formula as the sample size. In this study, sampling was done by cluster method. To collect data, the questionnaire of Nissi et al., which measures the level of knowledge, attitude and performance regarding menstrual hygiene, was used. The reliability rate was calculated to be 0.89. The pre-test was conducted, then the training was conducted in 3 sessions of 60 minutes in the form of lectures and presentations of educational PowerPoints, as well as questions and answers. A few days after the completion of the training course, the post-test was taken and three months later, the follow-up test was conducted. Then the collected data was entered into SPSS software version 24 and analyzed using paired T-test and other descriptive tests. Results: The results of paired t-test showed that there is a significant difference between the performance of girls before (23.68 ± 2.67) and after training (26.12 ± 2.91), which indicates the effectiveness of the intervention (2.44 ± 2.77 and p≤0.05). Also, the results of the research showed that the educational intervention in the field of puberty health was effective in the level of knowledge (2.66 ± 2.95) and attitude (5.09 ± 4.6) of students (p < 0.001). Conclusion: The results showed that the education of health topics during puberty (menstrual hygiene) had a noticeable effect on the level of knowledge, attitude and performance of students, so the correct information in this matter should be provided through correct information sources, especially through mothers and health officials. schools should be transferred to them, therefore, it is suggested that the relevant authorities should make the necessary efforts to increase the awareness of adolescent girls regarding pubertal health through public education in order to improve their attitude, improve their performance and, as a result, improve their health level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background & Aim: Childhood cancer is a prevalent and debilitating disease that serves as a major cause of mortality among children. Awareness of a child's cancer diagnosis generates substantial psychological distress in parents, impairing their quality of life (QoL) across physical, psychological, social, and environmental domains. Consequently, parents require adequate resilience and coping skills to navigate this challenging situation. This study aimed to determine the level of resilience and its association with QoL in parents of children with cancer in Urmia, Iran. Materials & Methods: This cross-sectional descriptive-analytical study was conducted in 2022 with a convenience sample of 345 parents of children with cancer in Urmia. Data were collected using the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale and the SF-12 QoL questionnaire. The collected data were analyzed using SPSS software and descriptive and analytical statistics at a significance level of P < 0.05. Results: The mean resilience score of the parents was 65.84, with fathers exhibiting higher resilience than mothers. A significant positive correlation was observed between resilience and QoL (P < 0.001). Additionally, significant associations were found between parental resilience and characteristics such as age and duration of the child's illness, parental age, family economic status, occupation, and educational level (P < 0.005). Conclusion: Parents of children with cancer can improve their QoL by strengthening their resilience. In this regard, utilizing religious, social, educational, and psychological resources can be highly effective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background & Aim: One crucial step in implementing the child-friendly protocol in hospitals is to monitor the current situation regarding skin-to-skin contact between mother and baby and initiating breastfeeding within the first hour of birth. The present study was conducted with the aim of investigating the level of skinto-skin contact and breastfeeding within the initial hour postnatal and its associated factors Materials & Methods: The present study was a cross-sectional study which was done in the winter of 2022 in Ayatollah Mousavi Hospital of Zanjan city. The sample size included 385 mothers who gave birth admitted to the Postpartum care unit of the Hospital, who were selected by simple random method. The data were collected by using the registering form of the demographic characteristics of the mother, the characteristics of the baby, the mother's pregnancy and delivery, and data related to the state of skin contact between the mother and the baby and the start of feeding in the first hour after the childbirth, through interviews with the mother, and with using SPSS software version 21 and descriptive statistics indicators, chi-square test and conditional logistic regression model were analyzed with a confidence level of 95%. Results: The study's findings revealed that approximately 53% of infants experienced skin-to-skin contact with their mothers. Within the initial hour post-delivery, 89% of infants were breastfed. According to the results of the logistic regression model, the variable of delivery method had a significant relationship with the state of mother-baby skin contact and the variable of residence with breastfeeding in the first hour after childbirth. So that in mothers living in the city, the chance of breastfeeding in the first hour after birth was 2.5 times higher (p=0.016) and the chance of skin-to-skin contact between mother and baby in cesarean section was 8% lower than natural delivery (p=0.001). Conclusion: The results of the present study show that the skin contact between mother and baby was relatively good and breastfeeding was good. Considering the relationship between skin contact between mother and baby and delivery method, it is suggested to plan suitable interventions to increase skin contact coverage and breastfeeding in the first hour after childbirth, especially in cesarean deliveries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background & Aim: Medication adherence is one of the important health issues and key aspects of the desired quality of care in patients with diabetes, and one of the important factors affecting it is their health literacy. Therefore, the present study was conducted with the aim of determining the relationship between the level of health literacy and medication adherence in type 2 diabetes patients who referred to comprehensive health centers in Gorgan city during 2023. Materials & methods: This study was conducted cross-sectional on 400 patients with type 2 diabetes who referred to comprehensive health centers in Gorgan city in 2023. The data was collected by stratified sampling method according to the volume and in each stratum of the convenience type. Moriski medication adherence questionnaires (MMAS-8) and short version health literacy questionnaire (HELIA-SH) were used. Data were analyzed in SPSS software using independent t-test, chi-square, analysis of variance and Pearson correlation. Results: The average score of medication adherence and the total score of health literacy were 4.06 ± 1.46 and 36.47 ± 3.53, respectively. Among the participants in the study, only 8.20% of patients had high compliance and 16.80% had moderate compliance, and the rest (75%) had poor drug compliance. Patients' medication adherence had a direct and significant relationship with basic health literacy skills (P=0.004, r=0.14) and decision-making skills (P=0.003, r=0.15). Conclusion: The findings of this study showed that the majority of patients had poor medication adherence and the level of health literacy was related to the dimensions of medication regimen adherence in patients with type 2 diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Since prenatal care may have been affected during the COVID-19 pandemic, this study aimed to compare the content of prenatal care during the COVID19 pandemic with one year before the pandemic in Qazvin, Iran. Methods. This cross-sectional-analytical study included 722 pregnant mothers (361 before and 361 during the COVID-19 pandemic) referring to Qazvin health centers in 2018 and 2019. The "Evaluation of Care during Pregnancy" checklist was used to collect information. The information was extracted from the Integrated Health System (known as SIB), reporting offices of health centers. SPSS version 25 software was used to analyze the data. Results. The results showed a decrease in the number of prenatal care in all care times during the COVID-19 pandemic compared to the pre-pandemic period (P<0.001). The rate of preterm pregnancies increased during the pandemic period (P<0.001). Performing the first round of screening, the first and second rounds of ultrasound and the second round of laboratory tests, respectively decreased by 23.8%, 11.1%, 13.3% (P<0.001), and 7% (P=0.004) in the pandemic period (P<0.001). The follow-up rate of referrals also decreased during the pandemic period (P<0.001). Conclusion. The results showed a decrease in the number and content of prenatal care during the COVID-19 pandemic. Practical Implications. The number and content of prenatal care during the COVID-19 crisis decreased in this study. Therefore, effective measures should be planned for this reduction. There is also a need to provide necessary training and preparations to the providers of prenatal care in critical times. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Having problems in regulating the emotions is considered as the main core of depression disorder and rumination is one of the cognitive components in individuals with depression disorder. The objective of this study was to consider the effect of mindfulness training on rumination and cognitive regulation of emotion in students with depressive symptoms. Methods. This study was a semi-experimental method with a pre-test-post-test design with a control group. The statistical population included all 350 students of the Faculty of Nursing of Tabriz University of Medical Sciences in 2023-2022, among whom the Beck Depression Questionnaire was administered. Among them, 30 students with symptoms of depression (15 as experimental and 15 as control) were selected by purposive sampling method. The emotion regulation scale and rumination questionnaire were used to collect data. Results. The findings showed a significant difference between the experimental and control groups in terms of rumination and cognitive regulation of emotion (P<0.001). The mean of rumination in the experimental group was significantly reduced compared to the pre-test and the control group, and the mean of the cognitive regulation of emotion was significantly increased. Conclusion. The results of the research showed that mindfulness training has an effect on rumination and cognitive regulation of emotion in students with depressive symptoms. Practical Implications. The results of the present study can be used to prevent and treat people with symptoms of depression, especially students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Kawasaki disease is an acute and rare febrile disease that affects children and is characterized by conjunctivitis, redness of the lips and mouth, diffuse skin lesions, edema and redness of the hands and feet, and cervical lymphadenopathy. Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, Kawasaki disease has become much more prevalent and has more diverse manifestations. Methods. This retrospective cohort study included patients diagnosed with Kawasaki symptoms between January and October 2021 at the Tabriz Children's Education and Therapeutic Center. The diagnosis was made using the guidelines of the American Heart Association (2017) and the American College of Rheumatology. Results. All referred patients had fever, and additional symptoms may include skin involvement (93%), mucosal involvement (87%), end changes in the peripheral exterimities in the form of erythema and scaling (75%), gastrointestinal manifestations (51%), cardiac manifestations (42%), followed by respiratory (27%), and finally cervical lymphadenopathy (18%). Conclusion. Manifestations of Kawasaki disease during the COVID-19 pandemic can be much more diverse and severe. Knowing the variety of clinical symptoms and uncommon findings of Kawasaki disease in these patients can help to early distinguishing between Kawasaki and Kawasaki like disease and prevent the progression of the disease. Practical Implications. It was noteworthy that patients with complete Kawasaki manifestations were less than five years old. The age range of the patients was between 11 months and 13 years, and the average age range was between 5 and 6 years (65±37 months). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Menopause is associated with an increase in blood sugar and an increase in inflammatory cytokines. Exercise and genistein have biological activities, including anti-inflammatory and antidiabetic activity. This study examined the combined effects of regular swimming exercise and genistein as a preventive strategy against inflammation and pancreatic cell damage in ovariectomized diabetic rats. Methods. A total of 42 female Wistar rats were divided into six groups: Sham, ovariectomy (OVX), diabetic ovariectomy (OVX.D), diabetic ovariectomy + exercise (OVX.D.E), diabetic ovariectomy + genistein (OVX.D.G), and diabetic ovariectomy + exercise + genistein (OVX.D.E.G). Animals underwent swimming training or received genistein or a combination of both for eight weeks. At the end of this period, the levels of TNF-α, Nf-κB, IL-1β, and SIRT1 proteins were evaluated using western blot in pancreatic tissue. Results. Ovariectomy increased the expression of TNF-α, Nf-κB, and IL-1β and decreased the expression of SIRT1, and these effects were more significant in ovariectomized diabetic rats. Treatment with genistein and swimming exercise individually reversed these changes in the level of proteins and improved the inflammation, but the combined effect of these two interventions exhibited more effect. Conclusion. The combination of genistein and regular swimming exercise provides enhanced protection for pancreatic tissue and effectively prevents damage to it. Therefore, performing appropriate physical activities and consuming compounds containing phytoestrogens can prevent the occurrence of disorders such as diabetes during menopause. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Various methods have been proposed to treat plantar fasciitis. Among these, autologous blood transfusion has been discussed and investigated in the past few years, the findings indicate its effects in the medium term, and in some studies, better results were observed compared to corticosteroids. This study was conducted with the aim of comparing the effect of two therapeutic methods of local injection of autologous blood and corticosteroid with the control group in the treatment of plantar fasciitis. Methods. In this prospective study that took place in Shahid Beheshti Hospital, Babol, during 2020–2021, 90 plantar fasciitis patients were examined in two treatment groups by corticosteroid injection or autologous blood. Their levels of pain and satisfaction were recorded during three and six months by the visual analog scale (VAS) and the Roles and Maudsley Scale (RMS). The data were described and analyzed by SPSS-22 using descriptive indices and statistical analysis tests at a significance level of 0.05. Results. There was no significant difference in pain and satisfaction during the third month of steroid and autologous blood transfusions. However, in the sixth month, the patients in the autologous blood group had significantly less pain than those in the steroid group (P= 0.001), and their level of satisfaction was significantly higher than that of patients in the steroid injection group (P= 0.018). The mean pain intensity based on VAS in six months was 5.40 ± 1.37 and 3.76 ± 1.87 in the steroid and autologous blood groups, respectively (P< 0.001). Based on the Wilcoxon test, the VAS score increased significantly in the steroid group in the sixth month compared to the third month (P= 0.011), while it decreased in the autologous blood group (P< 0.001). Conclusion. Based on the findings, autologous blood injection in plantar fasciitis over six months had significant pain-reducing effects and satisfaction versus corticosteroid injection. However, after three months, these effects were not significant compared to corticosteroids. Practical Implications. Based on the findings, autologous blood injection in plantar fasciitis over six months had significant pain-reducing effects and satisfaction versus corticosteroid injection. However, after three months, these effects were not significant compared to corticosteroids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Diabetes is one of the most common chronic and metabolic diseases. This systematic review and meta-analysis study aimed to compare the effects of multiple daily insulin injections against permanent subcutaneous insulin injections on glycated hemoglobin (HbA1C) levels in type 2 diabetic patients. Methods. Studies that compared the impacts of multiple daily insulin injections against permanent subcutaneous insulin injections on HbA1C levels and were published until the end of 2022 in international databases were searched and retrieved (nine randomized clinical trial studies). The Chi-squared test and I2 were used to determine the presence and size of heterogeneity. Results. The results of the analysis demonstrated that compared to the group of multiple daily insulin injections, HbA1C was significantly reduced in the group of permanent subcutaneous insulin injections, so that the standardized mean difference was equal to -0.26 (95% confidence interval: -0.46– -0.06 P=0.025). According to the results of Egger’s (P=0.333) and Begg’s (P=0.667) tests, publication bias was not observed in this study. Conclusion. Based on the available evidence, permanent subcutaneous injection of insulin could be significantly successful in reducing and controlling the level of HbA1C because the patients in the permanent subcutaneous injection group had lower levels of HbA1C. Practical Implications. In patients with type 2 diabetes, insulin treatment with the permanent subcutaneous injection method can better control the level of HbA1C than the multiple daily injection method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives Developing a vision without understanding the organizational culture is a failed attempt. The purpose of this research is to understand organizational culture for understanding expectations in order to prioritize issues and compare work groups by managers for greater productivity Materials and Methods This study was carried out in Iranian Blood Transfusion Organization between 2020 and 2022. The statistical population for this research was the employees of the central headquarters and the general administrations of blood centers, and 384 of them were included in the study using stratified random sampling. To collect the required data, a 60-question organizational culture questionnaire based on Denison's model was used. For data analysis, descriptive statistics (frequency distribution, mean, standard deviation) and inferential (independent t, analysis of variance, Tukey and Pearson's coefficient) according to demographic variables, SPSS22 and Excel 2013 software were used. Results The findings show that Iranian Blood Transfusion Organization has a medium/strong organizational culture with a score of 179.31 and the highest impact after mission with a score of 46.60. Also, the indicators of "customer orientation and development of capabilities" need to be improved. Conclusions According to the findings, most employees have understood the vision, strategic intentions and mission of the organization, but their capabilities are not well seen. According to the score of customer orientation, the skills and abilities of the employees should be developed by using retraining courses, while motivating the personnel, respecting the clients, and the provinces should take advantage of the experiences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives Uncontrolled post-operative bleeding can lead to several problems and tissue repair disorder indentistry. This study has been conducted to compare the effect of Chitohem and natural silk on the onset of clot formations. Materials and Methods This laboratory study was carried out with a dependent parallel design. Three drops of blood were taken from each of 32 participants in the study. Fifty milligram Chitohem and natural silk powder were poured on two blood drops, respectively. The clot formation time was measured for all three groups simultaneously. Duration between pouring powder and starting of clot formation was recorded. Data analysis was performed using paired t-test and repeated measure ANOVA methods using SPSS 17 software. Results Participants composed of 20 (62.5%) women and 12 (37.5%) men. The average age of the participants was 43.33 ± 4.08 years. The average time periods of the onset of blood clot formation in Chitohem group, natural silk and control group were 90.97 ± 29.99, 141.97 ± 49.10, and 195.44 ± 58.70 second, respectively. Paired t-test showed the mean time of clot formation was significantly different among groups (p = 0.0001). Conclusions Based on the obtained results, it seems that although effect of “organic natural silk” on coagulation time was less than “Chitohem”, but silk has an acceptable hemostatic effect. The simultaneous use of natural silk and Chitohem can have a synergistic effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives Regular blood donors may experience iron deficiency due to repeated blood donation. Genetic differences might have an impact on iron deficiency in regular blood donors. Some of these genes include those involved in activities related to iron absorption and transfer in blood. In this study, the association of the rs855791 single nucleotide polymorphism in TMPRSS6 gene with iron levels in male regular blood donors was investigated. Materials and Methods In this cross-sectional study, 130 male regular blood donors participated. CBC tests, serum iron, ferritin, and Total Iron Binding Capacity (TIBC) were performed on their blood samples. The genotypes of the target polymorphisms were determined using the allele-specific PCR method. All collected data were analyzed using R software for statistical analysis. Results The average age of the regular male blood donors was 45 years with a standard deviation of 10.5. Among the 130 regular blood donors, 28 individuals (21.54%) were homozygous for the T/T allele, 29 individuals (22.31%) were homozygous for the C/C allele, and 73 individuals were heterozygous for the C/T allele. No significant association was observed between the rs855791 single nucleotide polymorphism and iron assessment indicators. Conclusions Single nucleotide polymorphism of TMPRSS6 gene (rs855791 v736A) was not associated with iron level and related quantities in regular blood donors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives Various mutations can occur in the HBV genome during chronic HBV infection due to errorprone viral replication and stress on the host immune system. This study aimed to determine the mutations in the BCP and preC regions of the hepatitis B virus genome in asymptomatic carriers and its role in the persistence of hepatitis B infection. Materials and Methods In this descriptive study conducted by easy non-probability sampling method in 2017, 40 asymptomatic blood donors positive in terms of HBsAg and confirmatory tests and negative in terms of anti-HCV and anti-HIV tests were included in the study. Anti-HBc, HBe Ag and antiHBe (Total) tests and ALT and AST tests were performed. Nested-PCR reaction was performed on the extracted DNA and the sequences were determined. Data analysis was done using online software https://hbv.geno2pheno.org. Results Out of the 40 examined samples (94.8%), 38 were men and 2 (5.2%) women with an average age of 38.6 ± 8.6. Mutations in (G1764A) and BCP (A1762T) were observed in 10 (50%) and 8 (40%) cases, respectively, and G54T17 mutation was observed in 3 (15%) samples out of 20 HBV positive and HBeAg negative samples. The mutation in the preC region and the nucleotide position A1896 G was found in 12 cases (60%). Conclusions The highest frequency of mutations was observed in G1764A and BCP which can be considered as one of the effective factors in not clearing and removing the virus by the host's immune system and causing chronic hepatitis B infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Empathy is one of the most effective indicators of nursing performance, therefore understanding the concept of empathy in the ICU seems necessary to provide better care in this challenging environment. However, empathy faces barriers in this area. This study was conducted using the content analysis approach with the aim of explaining the factors that inhibit among in intensive care nurses. Materials & Methods: In this qualitative study, 12 semi-structured interviews were conducted with an average duration of 30- 45 minutes with ICU nurses selected by purposive sampling during the period 2021-2022. The interviewees' statements were analysed after being recorded and converted into text using MAXQDATA 11 software and conventional content analysis methods. Results: The coding process was carried out after removing duplicate codes and merging similar codes as a continuous comparative analysis. Eleven subcategories and three main themes were identified, including "organisational barriers", "individual barriers" and "barriers related to environmental and cultural factors". Finally, the general theme (the main theme) was obtained under the title 'Barriers to empathy in nurses'. Conclusion: The results of this study showed that intensive care nurses face significant barriers to empathy. Given that knowledge of the barriers to empathy and their removal will contribute greatly to improving patient care, it is necessary to identify and remove the existing barriers known to managers and policy makers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Rhinoplasty is one of the most challenging cosmetic surgeries. The nature of surgery itself and hemodynamic instability in patients causes bleeding during surgery, which affects the quality of the surgical field of view, complications during and after surgery, and the outcome of surgery. Therefore, the purpose of this study is the effect of tranexamic acid drug on hemodynamic changes in patients undergoing septorhinoplasty surgery. Materials & Methods: This double-blind randomized clinical trial study was conducted on 51 patients aged 18 to 44 years with anesthesia class І, II who were candidates for septorhinoplasty surgery. The patients were randomly divided into two groups of tranexamic acid and control. Hemodynamic parameters at times; before induction, after induction, 1 minute after induction, 5 minutes after induction, 30, 60, 90 and 120 minutes during the operation, entry into recovery and exit from recovery were measured. Data analysis was done using spss software version 21 and descriptive statistics (mean and standard deviation) and inferential statistical tests. Results: The average trend of systolic and diastolic blood pressure from the time before induction to outside of recovery in the control and tranramic acid groups showed a significant difference (P<0.001). In the times before and after induction, 5 minutes, 15 minutes, 30 minutes, 60 minutes, 90 minutes, 120 minutes, a significant difference in the average heart rate between the two groups was observed (P<0.05). In the control group and the tranamic acid group, the mean trend of O2SAT from the time before induction to the time outside of recovery showed a significant difference (P<0.001). Conclusion: The results of the present study showed that the use of a dose of 250 mg of tranexamic acid had a decreasing trend in the average hemodynamic changes over time, and during these times, the decreasing changes in heart rate were significant. Therefore, it seems that tranexamic acid can be used in septorhinoplasty surgery to maintain hemodynamic stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Female-headed households, due to continuous and chronic exposure to various pressures, often face psychological challenges. Resilience is a crucial variable influencing the mental health of women in such circumstances. This study aims to assess the impact of implementing the Peplau Interpersonal Theory on the resilience of female-headed household members. Materials and Methods: This is a quasi-experimental study. The target population consisted of female-headed households covered by the Welfare Office of Khorramabad. Using convenience sampling, 60 female household heads were selected from those covered by the Welfare Office, and they were randomly assigned into two groups: control and intervention. The intervention for the experimental group included face-to-face and individual training sessions based on the Peplau theory. Data were collected using demographic information questionnaires and the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale before and one month after the intervention. The gathered data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical tests with SPSS software version 22. Results: Both intervention and control groups did not have statistically significant differences in terms of demographic variables and the level of resilience before the intervention (P>0.05). Comparison of the average resilience score showed a significant increase in the participants of the intervention group compared to the control group (p<0.001). Conclusion: Based on the findings of this research, it can be concluded that education based on Peplau interpersonal theory increases the level of resilience in female-headed households. Therefore, counselors and welfare professionals, as well as other executive bodies, should pay special attention to improving the resilience of female-headed household members. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]