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Objective: Different timing of performing stretching and strengthening exercises can have different effects on the condition of Lower Crossed Syndrome (LCS). This study aims to compare the effects of eight-week training using stretching and strengthening exercises intermittently and simultaneously on the status of LCS in female college students. Methods: In this quasi-experimental study, the study population consists of 300 female students of Guilan University aged 19-25 years. To assess LCS, the New York Posture Rating tool was used. 120 patients who had hyperlordosis were re-evaluated using flexible ruler for precise measurement of LCS. Finally, 45 students with a lumbar curvature angle of >45 degrees were selected and randomly divided into three groups of intermittent training (n=15), simultaneous training (n=15), and control (n=15). The training program consisted of corrective exercises for 8 weeks, 3 sessions per week, each for 60 minutes. One-way ANOVA was used for data analysis in SPSS v. 20 software Results: The difference between the intermittent training and control groups was significant (P=0.30), while no significant difference was observed between the simultaneous training and control groups (P=0.68). Conclusion: Performing stretching and strengthening exercises intermittently has a greater effect on reducing LCS than performing these exercises simultaneously.

Abstract Background and Objective: Climate change has had a significant impact on agriculture, and farmers are reacting differently. The purpose of this descriptive correlational study is to identify the Adaptation strategies used and the factors affecting farmers' behavior in this area. Materials and Methods: The statistical population of this apllied-correlational study consisted of all farmers of Zanjan province who 393 were selected by using Krejcie and Morgan sampling table and were selected through a multi-stage randomized sampling method. Results: The results showed that farmer's use of 14 adaptation strategies was above average and in other 15 strategies was below average and 79.1% of farmers had used adaptation strategies on average. Correlation coefficient showed that climate perception, training attendance, adaptation knowledge, access to credit, non-agricultural income, agricultural income, rainfed land area, irrigated land area, access to inputs, use of information resources, social capital, soil quality of farm, farm expericne, household size and exposure to climate change had positive and significant relationship with farmers' adaptation strategies. Multiple linear regression showed that access to inputs, use of information resources, irrigated land area, social capital, training attendance, exposure to climate change and rainfed land area explainded 51.4% of the variance of farmers' adaptation behavior. Conclusion: This study showed that the higher the human, social, and physical capital of farmers, and the more they have been affected by climate change in recent years, the more they use adaptation strategies. It is suggested that more planning be done to increase the human and social capital of farmers, as well as to inform farmers about the long-term effects of climate change on the agricultural sector.

In recent years due to climate change and water resource mismanagement, the agricultural sector in Iran hase faced with water shortages crisis and one of the important solutions to the water crisis, is improving the water resources management by farmers.This descriptive- correlational study aimed to investigate the intention of fruit farmers in Sustainable Management of Agricultural Water Resources and factors affecting on the intention level of them. Research tool was a researcher made questionnaire which its validity was confirmed by related experts and by conducting a pilot study and calculation of Cronbach's alpha higher than 7.0 for the composition indicators, its reliability was obtained. The statistical population consisted all fruit farmers of Maragheh township (N= 11742) which based on Cochran sampling formula 228 farmers were selected by using multistage randomized sampling method. Data collected by personal interview with fruit farmers in 14 villages and analyzed through software SPSS21.Results showed that, the majority of them (88.9 percent) highly tended to use sustainable management strategies. According to regression analysis, five variables of social trust, educational need, the status of consumed water, the perception of the fruit growers regarding the reduction of water resources and perception of the fruit growers regarding the salinization of water resources explained 55% of their tendency to use of sustainable water resource methods.

Cyanobacteria are gram-negative photosynthetic microorganisms. Because they contain a variety of chemical compounds such as pigments, vitamins, and enzymes, theses microorganisms have found many applications in the industry. Several studies have reported that cyanobacteria can improve the plant growth by improving the soil structure as they have potential to secrete extracellular polysaccharides that help in soil aggregation and water retention. Numerous plant-associated bacteria produce auxin and related indolic compounds. The role of microorganisms as plant growth stimulators is widespread in nature, especially in relation to the production of phytohormones. Auxins represent a group of plant hormones that are implicated in the regulation of diverse biological processes. The aim of this research was to study the production capability of auxin and some photosynthesis pigments in heterocystous cyanobacteria serovars isolated from paddy fields in eastern part of Mazandaran. After collecting soil samples, cyanobacteria cultures were cultivated on a typical BG110 medium, for purification purposes, repeated sub-culturing was carried out on solidified and liquid medium before the strains were characterized morphologically. Results indicated that a great range of isolated cyanobacteria had the potential to produce auxin as a main factor for improving plant growth and there were significant differences in the chlorophyll and carotenoid contents; however, potential of each species according to different ecological diversity and genus were different. Maximum chlorophyll, carotenoid, and auxin contents were observed in MGCY277 (Lyngbya diguetii), MGCY497 (Nostoc ellipsosporum), and MGCY358 (A nabaena variabilis) serovars, respectively.

Due to the low compliance of greenhouse production with the principles of sustainable agriculture, a meaningful effort in this regard needs to be done. One of the important factors affecting the success of future planning is the positive attitude of greenhouse owners toward sustainable agriculture. The purpose of this descriptive- correlational study was to investigate factors affecting greenhouse owners’ attitude toward sustainable agriculture. The validity of the questionnaire was verified by a panel of experts in the related field and to obtain its reliability, calculated alpha Cronbach coefficient was higher than 0.75 for different parts. The statistical population consisted all greenhouse owners in Zanjan province (N=80) and based on Krejci and Morgan sampling Table and using randomized sampling method 66 greenhouse owners selected. Results showed that majority of greenhouse owner use moderately of information channels and mass media. The majority of greenhouse owners (59.6 percent) had a medium level of knowledge regarding sustainable agriculture and Majority of them (73.7 percent) had a positive attitude toward sustainable agriculture. Correlation coefficient showed that greenhouse owners’ attitude had a positive meaningful correlation with information using level, income from the greenhouse, number of educational classes and their job satisfaction but a negative meaningful correlation with the number of household members participating in the activity. Regression analysis revealed that five variable of information using level, the number of household members participating in activity, knowledge and daily time spending in the greenhouse were explained 55.4 percent of greenhouse owners’ attitude toward sustainable agriculture.

In recent years, focusing on organic agriculture has been emphasized because of the negative effect of conventional agriculture. Any persuading planning of farmers to use organic agriculture methods requires investigating their current attitude toward organic agriculture. The main purpose of this descriptive-correlational study was to investigate effective factors on farmers' attitude towards organic agriculture. The statistical population consisted of all wheat farmers in Khodabande township (N= 24350) of them 275 were identified based on Cochran’s formula and through a stratified randomized sampling method. The research tool was a researcher-made questionnaire which its validity was verified by a panel of experts in the related field and to check its reliability, a Cronbach’s Alpha coefficient was calculated 0.78. The results showed that the attitude of the majority of respondents (50.9 percent) towards organic farming was at the neutral level and the attitude of 49.1 percent was positive. Correlation analysis revealed that age, family household number and experience had a negative meaningful correlation with farmers’ attitude but education, income and acquaintance with organic farming had a positive meaningful correlation. Comparison analysis showed that there were significant differences between the farmers’ attitude towards organic agriculture based on groups of different cultivation method, using of pesticide and Herbicide. In addition, logistic regression analysis indicated that 46.5 of farmers' attitude explained by three variables named as farmer’s experience, their acquaintance with organic farming and income.

The marketing behavior of olive farmers is different and their behavior is affected by several factors. Because of the strategic importance of olive in the agricultural economics of the Tarom Township, this descriptive - correlational study was aimed to investigate the marketing behavior of olive farmers and the relevant factors effective in the Tarom Township. The statistical population under study consisted of all of the olive farmers in the Tarom Township in 2013 (N=7500) 160 of whom were selected by randomized multi-stage sampling based on Cochran's sampling formula. The research tool was a questionnaire whose validity was verified by a panel of experts in this field and its reliability were obtained by calculating the Cronbach's alpha coefficient greater than 0.7 for composite indices. The results showed that olive farmers market their olive products by three methods named as green, canned and broken and the variables of age, olive price, quantity and quality of production, size of garden, number of participants in extension classes and risk taking status have a significant relationship with marketing behavior of the farmers.

Proper planning and implementation of sound programs and strategies is vital to agricultural development. Recognizing current problems and strengths of any section is required in the first step. One of the most important problems in the Iranian agriculture sector is land fragmentation. The purpose of this descriptive-correlational study was to investigate wheat farmers’ attitude and land consolidation solutions from their viewpoints in the Hashtrood Township in year 2013. A group of experts from different majors confirmed the validity of the questionnaire used as our research tool and by conducting a pilot test and the Cronbach’s alpha was calculated to be equal to 0.85 for attitude scale and 0.8 for solution scale, and hence its reliability was verified. The target population consisted of all of the wheat farmers in the Hashtrood Township in the East Azerbaijan province 186 of whom were selected as samples from 15 villages based on Cochran’s sampling formula and the multi stage randomized sampling method. An analysis of the attitudes of wheat farmers revealed that 67.7 and 32.3 percent of them have unfavorable and neutral attitudes towards land consolidation. Also, there is a significant positive relationship between farming experience and their attitude in land consolidation, but there is a negative relationship between it and their total land segments. Factor analysis of data revealed that four factors named as deterrent actions, cooperative-common actions, supportive-infrastructural actions and motivational extension actions explained 59.9% of land consolidation solutions by wheat farmers.

Background: Many studies have suggested the benefits of garlic oil extracts against Leishmania parasites. Recent research has proved that these derivatives (such as allicin) are cytotoxic and therapeutic effects of garlic are in fact due to an odorless compound (S-allyl-cysteine). Considering the small number of studies in this field, we evaluated the effectiveness of S-allyl-cysteine on survival, apoptosis, and proliferation of Leishmania major promastigotes in vitro. Methods: In this study Leishmania major promastigotes (MRHO/IR/75/ER) were used. The parasites were first cultured and then treated with S-allyl-cysteine at end concentrations of 2.5, 5.0, 10.0, 20.0, 40.0, and 50.0 mM. Their survival, apoptosis, and proliferation was assessed after 72 hours. Findings: None of the concentrations of S-allyl-cysteine could induce apoptosis in parasite promastigotes. Lower concentrations (5.0 and 10.0 mM) of S-allyl-cysteine had greatest effect on proliferation. On the other hand, direct observation showed that cultures comprising S-allyl-cysteine at end concentration of 20.0, 40.0, and 50.0 mM formed more rosettes. Conclusion: The antioxidant effects of S-allyl-cysteine have been previously proved. Similarly, this study showed that some concentrations of S-allyl-cysteine could affect the survival and growth of promastigotes in culture medium. Therefore, this substance seems to be a good stimulating factor for growth of parasite promastigotes in culture media.

Background: Incarcerated youths have a higher prevalence of behaviors that might put them at more risk for hepatitis C than the general public. This study was performed to determine prevalence of hepatitis C in inmates of a correctional center in Isfahan, Iran. Methods: In a cross-sectional study, during one year, 160 under 18-year old incarecerated individuals using nonprobable sampling method were enrolled in the study. Risky behaviours were obtained by a validated questionaire and blood sample for hepatitis C detection. The experiences of administration were gathered and analysed by content analysis. Finding: All of the elligible participants were voluntarily enrolled in the study. This population consisted of the 147 boys and 13 girls. Seven cases of hepatitis C were diagnosed that makes HCV prevalence 4.4%. Conclusion: This was a successful experience due to the excellent caoperation between suffs of correctionl centers and the investigators. However, the high HCV prevalence obserrved in this study leads us to prepare and education programmes to decrease HCV spread and risky behavours in this population.

Background: Head and Neck cancers remain a significant problem due to their high morbidity and mortality and in most cases, require regional lymph nodes radiotherapy treatment. This work aims to evaluate and compare two methods of Three-Dimensional Conformal Radiation Therapy (3D-CRT) and Helical Tomotherapy (HT) based on treatment planning and selection of the most appropriate method to reduce side effects.Methods: In this study, 20 patients with head and neck cancers were considered for treatment in the radiotherapy department of Seyed Alshohada Hospital, Isfahan, Iran. Two methods of HT and 3D-CRT were done using a 6 MeV photon energy apparatus and specific treatment planning algorithms. The dose-volume distribution curve (DVH), the dosimetric variables of the target organ, the radiation delivery efficiency, and the organs at risk were determined and results were compared with each other.Findings: In HT the dose received by %95 planning target volume (PTV) and value doses of %2 and %98 showed significant improvement over 3D-CRT. For all studied organs at risk (OARs), the decrease in Dmax of HT was significant compared to 3-DCRT.Conclusion: Helical tomotherapy enhances the target volume coverage and offers a good dose distribution. HT compared to 3D-CRT is a desirable method in treating head and neck cancer patients with the involvement of regional lymph nodes.

The descriptive- survey research was conducted to evaluate the rural waste management problems in Qazvin Township. The statistical population was consisted of all rural households in Qazvin Township (N=31338) which were selected and studied base on Cochran sampling formula and using randomized multi-stage sampling method 464. The research tool was a researcher made questionnaire. In this field, the content and face validity was verified by an expert panel. The reliability of research tool was acquired by conducting a pilot study and calculation cronbach alpha coefficient equals to 0.9. Data were analyzed by SPSS/Win 18 software and exploratory factor analysis technique was used. The results revealed that six factors named as final disposal problem of household waste management (17/11 percent), educational and cultural problems of household waste (14/11 percent), health problems of household waste (12/11 percent), knowledge and health problems of agricultural wastes (8/98 percent), knowledge problem of household waste (6/99 percent), and education problem of agricultural waste (5/47 percent) were explained as 64.68 percent of total waste problems in the region.

Right to action as a natural right recognized in Constitution an International Pacts. Except some rare cases, everybody is free to act with this right. The conflict is a pre se requisite of litigation but we see some cases by the subject of homologation a contract which has not yet a conflict and courts have not a similar jurisprudence in cases. Although courts can, qualification or requalification the title of litigation but the manner is civil cases is different and the courts can see the cases, which permitted by laws and regulations exceptionally. We think that a litigant has profit to litigate and so we are trying to critic the case law and courts can, qualification or requalification the title of litigation but the manner is civil cases is different and the courts can see the cases, which permitted by laws and regulations exceptionally. So as a result, every conflict by a legal consequence will be accepted as litigation.

Background: Determining the concentration of hydrogen peroxide in liquids and biological samples is very important because of its effects on human health. This study aimed to design a new electrochemical biosensor based on hemoglobin to detect hydrogen peroxide in serum samples. Methods: In this study, a basic science, a biosensor based on modifying the glassy carbon electrode surface with a nanocomposite consisting of cobalt oxide nanoparticles and multi-walled carbon nanotube functionalized with a carboxyl group (MWCNT/Co3O4) and hemoglobin stabilized on this nanocomposite was made as a biological recognition element. Results: In optimal conditions, the biosensor was used to measure different concentrations of hydrogen peroxide. The designed biosensor showed a wide linear response range from 10 μM to 500 μM, a detection limit of 0.512 μM, and high reproducibility and stability. Conclusion: In this innovative research work, MWCNTs/Co3O4 nanocomposite was used to make a diagnostic biosensor. The presented biosensor showed an acceptable performance in the measurement of hydrogen peroxide in serum samples and laboratory solutions.

Introduction: The present study was designed to investigate the relationship between COX-2 gene expression, clinicopathological symptoms, and prognosis of patients with gastric cancer. Methods: The present cross-sectional study was designed to achieve the scientific aims among patients referred to the Imam Reza Hospital, Mashhad, Iran from 2008 to 2018. In this study, patients' demographic characteristics, clinical signs and symptoms, tumor findings, type of surgery, and COX-2 gene expression level (using Real Time PCR technique) were recorded. The data were analyzed by SPSS software (version 16), statistical tests, including Chi-square, Fisher's exact, Gamma coefficient, one-way ANOVA, or Kruskal-Wallis test at a significance level of 0.05. Results: Out of 110 patients included in the study, 55 patients were evaluated according to the criteria. Among them 21 (38.2%) patients had decreased levels of gene expression, in 18 (32.7%) patients gene expression was in the normal range, and in 16 (29.1%) patients increased gene expression was seen. The average survival months of patients after surgery were 23.41 ± 23.07 months. No statistically significant relationship was found between increased COX-2 gene expression and clinical signs, age, sex, survival (by month), tumor progression, type of surgery, histological features, family history of cancer, and other cases (P> 0.05); However, considering the annual survival in the annual classification showed a significant relationship with the expression of COX-2 gene (P=0.028). Conclusion: Despite no significant relationship between COX-2 gene expression and studied parameters in the patients with gastric cancer in this study, the existence of a significant relationship between gene expression and annual survival of patients seems so important.

Background and Objectives: Nurses are at higher risk of insomnia due to changes in their work shifts. This study aims to investigate the effect of extremely low-frequency magnetic field (ELF-MF) exposure on the sleepiness of night-shift nurses during rest time. Methods: This is a randomized crossover clinical trial that was conducted on 28 night-shift nurses, randomly divided into two groups of exposure (n=14) and sham (n=14). The central areas of the brain of nurses in the exposure group was exposed to a magnetic field with 200-μT intensity at a frequency of 10Hz for 10 minutes after each night shift for eight night shifts and four weeks. The executive protocol for the sham group was the same, except that the nurses were not exposed to a magnetic field. After exposure, there was no intervention for two weeks to wash out the effects. Then, the groups exchanged their roles and the protocol was repeated. Stanford sleepiness scale (SSS) was used to measure the sleepiness of nurses. Findings were analyzed in SPSS software. Results: No significant difference was observed in the mean SSS score in the first and second periods between the two groups (P=0.30). No significant difference was observed in the mean SSS score between the periods and the order of placement in each period, either (carryover effect=0.97, period effect=0.96). Conclusion: The local ELF-MF exposure has no significant effect on the sleepiness of night-shift nurses during rest time. It may be due to their disturbed circadian rhythm or the disturbance by the noise and light (not by work-related anxiety). Further investigation is needed.

Purpose: The purpose of this applied research is to investigate the role of social capital on the performance of rural cooperatives in Fars province. Methodology: The statistical population of the present study consists of members of 173 active rural cooperatives in Fars province (295,367 people). Considering the geographical size of the province and the large size of the statistical population, 384 people were selected as a statistical sample using Cochran's formula. A simple random sampling method was used to distribute the questionnaires among the samples. The main tool for collecting field data was the researcher-made questionnaire, whose validity and reliability have been confirmed by observing the principles of field research methods. Findings and conclusions: The results of the research showed that the general state of social capital among the members of rural cooperatives in Fars province (including the dimensions of trust, cohesion, awareness and social participation) is at an acceptable level (above average); However, the members' satisfaction with the performance of rural cooperatives in terms of managerial, social, economic, general performance and laws and regulations is at an average level. Based on the results, social capital indicators had a significant effect on the performance of rural cooperatives. Originality: The discussion of the performance of managers in the five sections in question was one of the main cases studied in this research, therefore, the innovation that took place in it was that the performance was examined through the survey of the members of the cooperatives.

Background & objectives: Research on intelligent nanomaterials that accelerate the process of nerve regeneration and treatment by different methods such as antioxidant effects, stimulation of nerve cell proliferation, modulation of the immune system and inflammatory factors is great importance. The aim of this study was to prepare cinnamon-coated cerium oxide nanoparticles and evaluate its antioxidant and cytotoxicity effects on PC12 cell line. Methods: Cinnamon-coated cerium oxide nanoparticles were prepared and their structural properties were evaluated by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). To evaluate the antioxidant properties of the compounds, free radical trapping methods 2 and 2 diphenyl-1-picryl hydrazyl were used. Cell viability in the presence of compounds was measured by a toxicity test (MTT) [3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide]. Data were analyzed by one-way analysis of variance and Tukey's post hoc test. Results: FTIR spectra and TEM images showed the processing of nanoparticles with an average size of less than 100 nm with cinnamon coating on their surface. Also, the antioxidant capacity of cinnamon-coated cerium oxide nanoparticles was significantly higher (*p

Objective: Existence of indicators of child-friendly city in urban space is one of the key indicators of sustainable urban development, its level and status indicate the degree of attention of policy makers, and urban affairs trustee to needs and wants of different segments of society, especially children as the future human capital of cities. Aim of this study is to investigate the situation of child-friendly cities, identify challenges and ways to improve it, as well as to investigate and analyze its relationship with quality, safety and security of required child-friendly uses in Jahrom. Methods: Present applied research has done using a combination of descriptive-analytical, correlational and causal methods. Statistical population of this study consists children aged 6 to 12 years living in Jahrom and sample of 372 persons has estimated using sample size estimation. Main research tool for collecting the required data is a researcher-made questionnaire and validity and reliability has confirmed by observing principles of field research methods. Results: Findings of study revealed that the situation of child-friendly cities with an average of 2.1 is significantly lower than the average level. Results of correlation between two variables of quality and safety and security of the uses required by children in the child-friendly city showed that calculated correlation with the values of 0.665 and 0.535 is significant and positive. Results of multivariate regression revealed that in the fitted model, 59.9% of the child-friendly city variance has explained by independent variables. Standardized regression coefficient of safety and security indicators and quality of required uses by children with values of 0.571 and 0.421 respectively were statistically significant. Conclusion: Results of this study revealed that the lack and weakness of quantity and quality of educational, sportive, recreational, health and security spaces required by children as well as lack of attention to opinions and demands of children in designing different spaces needed by them, hinders the realization of a child-friendly city in the study area. Therefore, it is necessary to solve these issues and problems by taking the necessary thoughts, because children are the main future assets of cities and it is necessary to meet their needs and wants as considerable.

Objective: The study examines the relationship between Functional Movement Screening (FMS) tests with fitness factors in female athlete students. Methods: The study population includes 30 female athlete students (Mean±SD of age: 23.36±3.10; height: 163.45±5.06; and 57.40±6.43). FMS test was used for measuring movement patterns. Sargent test was used to measure lower limb power, Y-test was used to measure dynamic balance, Stork test was used to measure static balance, and flexor/extensor muscle endurance tests were also used to measure trunk muscle endurance. In addition, Pearson correlation was used to evaluate the relationship between scores of functional motion screening and fitness factors. Multivariate regression was used to solve the linear regression equation. The data analyzed in SPSS software, V. 22 at significance level of P≥0.05. Results: Our results showed no significant relationship between FMS test with fitness factors (P>0.05). Conclusion: There is no significant relationship between total score of FMS test with fitness factors. It seems that FMS addresses the quality of basic motor activities while fitness factors determine sport skills; thus, FMS scores can’t explain fitness factors.

Objective: The control ability different positions of body in space was due to interaction between neural, sensory, and muscle-skeletal systems, which is generally defined as postural control. Limitations in mobility: The prevalence of balance and gait problems is also high in persons with intellectual disabilities. Thus, the present research aimed to examine the effect of visual, proprioception, and vestibular systems manipulation on postural control in three groups of girls with Intellectual Disability. Methods: The method of the present study is comparative-causative. The statistical population of this study was all girls with oral disabilities in special schools in Rasht. Sixty girls with Intellectual Disability were assessed in groups of 7-9, 10-12, and 18-16 years old (N=20). Postural control was evaluated in four conditions: open and closed eyes and on hard and soft surfaces. Collected data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA and post hoc test via SPSS software, V. 21 (P

Background and Aims Balance disorders and frequent falling are the important problems in the elderly, which is directly related to changes in their body structure and function. Many studies have been conducted to find new and safe ways to improve the balance of the elderly. This study aims to compare the effects of Pilates exercises on stable and unstable surfaces on the functional balance and core stability of older women.Methods In this quasi-experimental study, the study population includes all older women living in private nursing homes, in Rasht, Iran. Of these, 36 women aged 60-75 years were selected by a convenience sampling method and randomly assigned to three groups of control, Pilates on stable surface, and Pilates on unstable surface. The variables were assessed using the Fullerton advanced balance test, timed up & go test, and the McGill core endurance test. Experimental groups performed Pilates exercises for 8 weeks, while the control group performed their routine daily activities. Data were analyzed by one-way analysis of variance, t-test and Bonferroni’s post hoc test. The significance level was set at 0.05.Results There was a significant difference between the experimental and control groups; however, there was no significant difference between the experimental groups performed exercises on stable and unstable levels (P>0.05) Conclusion It is recommended to use Pilates exercises on stable or unstable surfaces for older women, especially residents of nursing homes with low mobility, to achieve their personal autonomy.

Building RCC dams involves pouring and compacting concrete in small layers (30 cm), one on top of another, creating a joint between each layer. This joint could potentially become the “ideal” joint depending on the temperature and lag time between each layer. To check the concrete s temperature using smart sensor is undeniable. Furthermore we use these sensors for RCC dam’s structural health monitoring. The objective of this paper is to introduce a novel model for arranging the smart sensors for RCC dam’s structural health monitoring .The authors suggest a flow chart and prove it with a real case study. This is useful for RCC dams all around the world. The case study is Zirdan RCC dam (located in Iran), and the verification is upon Kinta RCC dam (raised in Malaysia). Step 1, the Zirdan dam is modeled in Abaqus . The program outputs give the actual temperature, the thermal stresses of each node. Step 2,The ANN (Artificial neural network) converts discontinuous results in a continuous estate. Step 2, we use the Monte Carlo to achieve a point in each layer, representative of others. the chosen coordinates are fed into GA (genetic algorithm). Next, we define the parameter of importance coefficient as the temperature arrived from the site divided by the model temperature. finally, assimilating it with cost function will allow for having fewer sensors and sensors being placed further apart. All of the above result in the optimum placement of the thermal sensors in RCC dams.

This quantitative research is the descriptive analytic study. The aim of This Study is the investigate status of environmental sustainability in rural settlements in Iran, that was conducted as a case study in rural area Ravansar Township. Is the study sample test, all householder of rural in Ravansar Township (5668 = N) and Due to the Financial constraints and time and the lack of a census, Using the Bartlett et al Table and Was estimated 185 of them as statistical sample. Eventually, by selecting the targeted villages, Questionnaires were distributed randomly among heads of 26 selected villages. The main research tool was the researchers’ questionnaire, which were confirmed its validity and reliability, Principles and methods of field research conducted amended several times. The results showed among the ten environmental indicators examined Two indicators (Air stability and forests and meadows stability, respectively with The 0.150 and 0.559 coefficient of variation Was Stable and unstable environmental indicators in villages of Ravansar Township. Also, according to the mean of the environmental sustainability (2.63) and Results the frequency distribution table, can be said that environmental sustainability in rural city Ravansar Township Not in good condition. Nevertheless, the results the ANOVA test showed, between the districts of the Rawansar Township in terms of environmental sustainability there is a significant difference with the 0.99 confidence. Results The Tukey test showed that two district (Dawlat Abad and Quri qaleh) respectively with an average rank of 2.354 and 3.31, Are unstable and stable district.

Objective: The present study aimed to compare the Functional Movement Screen (FMS) scores between athlete and non-athlete female students. Methods: Participants were 30 athlete female students (Mean±SD age, 23.36±3.10 years; Mean±SD height, 163.45±5.06 cm; Mean±SD weight, 57.40±6.43 kg) and 30 non-athlete female students (Mean±SD age, 25.00±2.36 years; Mean±SD height, 162.6±3.72; Mean±SD weight, 58.76±9.29 kg). They underwent FMS to assess their movement patterns. Mann–Whitney U test was used to compare the mean FMS scores between athletes and non-athletes. Data analysis was performed in SPSS v. 22 software at a significance level of P≥0.05. Results: The Mann–Whitney U test results showed a significant difference between the total mean FMS scores of female athletes and non-athletes (P=0.001). Considering a cut-off point of 14, Results revealed that 66% of athletes 40% of non-athletes had a FMS score 14. Conclusion: FMS can help identify the difference in movement patterns between female athletes and non-athletes. Higher FMS scores of female athletes indicate that non-athletes have poor movement patterns which suggest that they are more likely to be injured if they engage in sports activities.

Objective: Security is one of the cornerstones of reaching a healthy society and having sustainable cities. One of the consequences of the worn out textures in cities is the reduction of security and, more importantly, the decrease in the sense of security among citizens, therefore, it is necessary to examine these spaces and assess their impact on citizens' sense of security. The main objective of this research is to identify and analyze the factors affecting the creation of security feeling in the context of the worn-out neighborhoods of Dongonbadan. Methods: The type of research in this study is applied and analytical descriptive. The method of collecting information is also documentation-based. The sample size of the citizens was 389 people based on the Karajes and Morgan tables and for the community of employees of the offices 120 people were selected by random sampling method. Data were analyzed using SPSS software. Results: The results of the data obtained from the statistical population of the employees indicate that the role of the urban management agent with the highest average of 4.54 and the lowest mean of 4 and 4.20, respectively, are due to the weakness of social justice and existing laws in the community. Also, information obtained from citizens in this area indicates the effective role of the weakness of social justice, with the highest mean of 4.14, and the next, blind and inactive points with a score of 4.07 and the lowest average of 3.45 that are in the rules of the community. Conclusion: Comparison between past and present research shows that, among the studies on social security in urban spaces, the results of Kiani et al. (2013) analysis and prioritization of environmental security strategies in Zabol city spaces is almost aligned.

Introduction: Participating in sports programs increases physical and mental health and fitness. The purpose of this study was to assess the physical fitness of persons with intellectual disability (ID) who participated in Special Olympics Iran, and comparing with their counterparts who did not participate in the these matches. Materials and Methods: The research sample included 138 boys with ID in two groups, athletes (70 boys with ID with and without Down’s syndrome) and non-athletes (68 boys with ID with and without Down’s syndrome), aged 18 to 30 years. To assess physical fitness, a set of Eurofit special tests, including explosive leg strength (standing broad jump test), arm strength (pushing a 2 kg ball test), abdominal muscle endurance (sit-up test), speed (20 meter run test), flexibility (sit and reach test), and balance (walk on a bench test) were used. To compare two groups, independent t test for variables of explosive leg strength, abdominal muscle endurance, and speed, and also Mann-Whitney U statistical method for variables of arm strength, flexibility, balance, and body mass index (BMI) were used at a significant level of P < 0.050. Results: There were significant differences in variables of flexibility (P = 0.035), abdominal muscle endurance (P = 0.034), explosive leg strength (P = 0.025), and speed (P = 0.009) between athlete and non-athlete boys with ID with and without Down’s syndrome. Moreover, there were significant differences in BMI (P = 0.041) and speed (P = 0.001) between athlete and non-athlete boys with ID without Down’s syndrome, and also in flexibility (P = 0.030), abdominal muscle endurance (P = 0.001), explosive leg strength (P = 0.001), and speed (P = 0.002) between athlete and non-athlete boys with Down’s syndrome. Conclusion: According to the results, the participants in Special Olympics Iran had a better level of physical fitness than those without this experience. Therefore, Special Olympics programs are recommended as an effective factor in improving the physical fitness of boys with ID.

Introduction: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of attentional focus and frequency of feedback on performance and kinematics in basketball free throwing. Materials and Methods: In this semi-experimental research, fifty students were randomly selected using convenience sampling method, and were randomly divided in one control and 4 experimental groups (internal focus and 33% feedback, internal focus and 100% feedback, external focus and 33% feedback, and external focus and 100% feedback). Experimental groups conducted six blocks of ten attempts (every day two blocks of ten attempts) in one week, and in three sessions of training, and received internal or external focus feedback with the corresponding frequency (33% or 100%). After 72 hours, retention and transfer tests were performed with ten-attempt blocks. Performance (throwing accuracy) and kinematic data (joint angle and range of motion) were collected. Data were analyzed using ANOVA with repeated measures and one way ANOVA. Results: Feedback with external focus (100% and 33%) was more effective in improving throwing performance in retention and transfer tests (P < 0.050). Kinematic data analysis showed that external focus feedback groups had the least maximum flexion in the knee joint in retention test compare to acquisition stage (P < 0.050). Moreover, external focus groups had the least maximum flexion at the knee in retention test compared to internal focus groups (P < 0.050). In range of motion of the knee, external focus groups had more range of motion in retention and transfer tests compared to internal focus groups (P < 0.050). Conclusion: Performance improvement in external focus groups may be limited to certain changes in kinematic data, and in line with constrained-action hypothesis.

Objective: The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of a 12 week Wrestling+ specific warm-up program on dynamic balance in cadet wrestlers. Methods: The study population included all cadet wrestlers in the city of Rasht from among whom 24 freestyle wrestlers were selected by the convenience sampling and divided into intervention and control groups. The Intervention group performed a Wrestling+ warm-up program for 12 weeks, three times a week and the control group performed routine warm-up during the same period. Y balance test was used for the assessment of dynamic balance in pre and post phases of the program. Independent samples t test, Dependent samples t test, and p-test were used for data analyses with preset alpha value of p

Objective: The purpose of this study was investigate the effect of dynamic knee valgus during overhead squat, on hip and ankle joints muscle strength and range of motion in basketball players. Methods: In this study 35 healthy basketball players (with the mean age 20.98± 1.99, height 183.27 ± 6.64 cm and mass 75.31 ± 9.24 kg), in the control group (n = 18) and dynamic knee valgus group (n = 17) with no lower-extremity injury during the last year were the volunteers. The peak force and the passive range of motion were measured rspecively by a hand-held dynamometer and a goniometer. The Independent T-test at the significance level of 0.05 was used to determine the difference of strength and range of motion in the control and dynamic knee valgus groups. Results: Compared by the control group, the dynamic knee valgus group showed to have a greater strength of the hip external rotation and extension (respectively P=0.000, P=0.004), smaller Plantarflextion strength (P=0.001), smaller dorsiflexion range of motion with knee bent (P=0.021), and greater external rotation of the hip (P=0.002). Conclusions: The results showed that the dynamic knee valgus group exhibited tight and weak ankle musculature, and as appeared, training interventions focused on improving strength and range of motion of the ankle can improve lower extremity kinematics of during overhead squat and modify dynamic knee valgus.

Objective Lateral ankle sprains (LAS) are common among athletes and can result in a high rate of reinjury and Chronic Ankle Instability (CAI). CAI can affect dynamic stability in athletes. On the other hand, fatigue can disrupt dynamic stability in injured as well as healthy athletes. Recent studies support the use of taping and braces in subjects with chronic ankle instability. Nonetheless, it is not known if applying ankle taping can improve dynamic stability in fatigued people. So the goal of this research is to study the effect of ankle taping and fatigue on dynamic stability in female athletes with and without chronic ankle instability. Materials & Methods Twenty female athletes including 10 subjects with chronic ankle instability (age 22.02±1.98 years, height 163.80±2.74 cm, weight 58.68±7.10 kg, FADI 80.78±1.03% and FADI Sport 65.10±1.75%) and 10 healthy subjects (age 21.70±0.67 years, height 162.90±5.06 cm, weight 59.10±7.04 kg, FADI and FADI Sport 100%) participated in two separate testing sessions. Different conditions (no taping and with closed basket-weave ankle taping) were applied at each session . Three trials of a jump landing task were performed under each condition before and after induced functional fatigue. The jump-landing task involved a single-leg landing onto a force plate from a height equivalent to 50 percent of each participant’s maximal jump height and from a starting position 70 cm from the center of the force plate. The functional fatigue protocol comprised three stations: Modified Southeast Missouri (SEMO) agility drill, stationary lunges, and quick jumps. The participants continued to run through each station until the time to finish the stations increased by 50% compared with their baseline timed runs. Time to stabilization was measured in the anterior-posterior (APTTS), medial-lateral (MLTTS) and vertical directions. Three separate repeated-measure analyses of variance with two within-subjects factor (condition and time) were performed for each dependent variable in each group.. Results The results of this investigation revealed that in healthy athletes group, the difference between MLTTS and vertical TTS was statistically significant {f=7.52, P=0.001}, {f=9.69, P=0.004}. Bonferroni post hoc testing revealed faster pretest MLTTS than posttest for taping condition and faster pretest vertical TTS than posttest for no taping condition. In injured athletes group, the difference between MLTTS and vertical TTS was statistically significant {f=10.57, P=0.001}, {f=14.27, P=0.001}. This testing also revealed faster pretest MLTTS than posttest for no taping condition, faster pretest vertical TTS than posttest for both conditions, and faster vertical TTS after taping than before taping. Conclusion In the athletes with chronic ankle instability, taping without fatigue improved dynamic balance in the vertical direction. Taping after fatigue could not improve dynamic stability in the athletes with and without chronic ankle instability. Future researchers should examine injured and uninjured participants tested under these conditions to determine if these results are useful in selecting appropriate prophylactic method that can treat or prevent injury to the ankle during functional activities.

In the present urbanization, especially in developing societies which­ lack of trust and isolation affected the lives of the majority of citizens, efforts for social alliance and raising social capital in the cities are of most important ­ goals of planners and urban managers. For this purpose, by relying on its material and spiritual means, religion has a role to play in raising the sense of belonging and social trust and­ most of all, it can create social cohesion and alliance among citizens. The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of religious centers, especially mosque, in building alliance among citizens with the social capital approach in the mosque of the city of Ferdowsi-eh, Shahryar town. The research community consists of all citizens of the city of Ferdowsi-eh­. The tool ­ of data gathering ­ was questionnaire to do this research, 341 questionnaires were distributed among citizens according to the size of the determined sample through the Morgan table. For data analysis, ­modeling structural equations with partial least squares approach (PLS) has been utilized through smartpls.2 software used. The results of the research showed that the created model was suitable for establishing alliance among citizens, and the proposed factors are well able to measure ­ the proposed concept. ­The factor loads obtained for the observed variables were higher than 0.5 and the constructions ­ had a good validity and reliability; also, based on the model created through the structural model, ­ trust and participation had a significant and positive correlation with social alliance, while social cohesion had no significant relationship with social alliance.

Gastric cancer is the most common gastrointestinal cancer and the third leading cause of death in men and the third most common cancer among women in the past two decades in Iran. Analysis the effective related agents can resulted in performance the health system in order to reduce the risk of this disease and help improve the public health. This study due to the difference in various regions, try to discover the spatial trend of Stomach cancer, and to identify critical areas in Metropolitan Tehran, Local Moran autocorrelation index taking into account the different levels of gastric cancer in Tehran. The results showed the High risk of stomach cancer in South and central regions of Tehran that suffering higher levels of pollution in water and air.

Background and Aim: Endogenous opioids and addictive opiate drugs change many body functions. . Previous studies have referred to the effects of morphine on smooth and pulmonary muscles ., but the effects of opioids on skeletal muscles is not known well. Thus, the current study aimed at assessing the effect of a single dose of morphine on muscle fatigue in male rats. Materials and Methods: In this experimental study, 40 male Wistar rats weighing 220-270 g were randomly divided into four equal groups: control (the mice were kept in their cages and received food and water), morphine receiving group, fatigue group (the mice in this group were kept running on a treadmill . for120 minutes at a rate of 20 meters per minute), and morphine plus fatigue group. At the end of the experiments, blood samples were obtained from the corner of their eyes and were sent to the laboratory for measurement of muscle fatigue indexes including lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and creatine phosphokinase (CPK). Results: Administration of morphine to the fatigue group decreased running time compared with the control group (P=0.009). Furthermore, administration of morphine to the fatigue group significantly increased serum levels of LDH (P=0.009) and CPK (P=0.008). Conclusion: The present study showed that administration of a single dose of morphine in rats increases muscle fatigue biomarkers (LDH, CPK).

Based on the studies, the villagers assessment about the function of the authorities of rural affairs, was limited to the evaluation of the performance of village administrators and councils. While, some institutions such as agriculture Jihad , housing foundation, natural resources, etc. are deeply involved in rural issues and the impact on rural communities with different methods. The purpose of this study, Which is made by descriptive- analytical method, is the assessment of rural communities regarding the performance of authorized institutions (Council, village administrator, governor, Agriculture Jihad, governorate, Housing foundation, natural resources, etc) and study the effects of such institutions on various indicators of rural development in the villages of the Javanrood Township.The statistical society of the study are 4811 rural households residing in 89 Villages of Javanrood Township, which by using statistical formulas, 356 households were estimated as the sample.The main research tool was researcher's made questionnaire, which confirmed its validity and reliability respectively with opinions of academics and Experts and also, Pre-test and Cronbach's alpha coefficient. SPSS and Amos software were used for the analysis of the collected data .Results of the study indicated that 12.4 percent of villagers had a great satisfaction about the performance of rural authorities , 39 percent had average satisfaction and 48.6 percent had poor satisfaction. Despite the Poor satisfaction of Javanrood villagers about the rural authorities, the results of the final accessed model of structural equations showed that the said institutions with the total impact of 0421 and 0.324 respectively have had maximum effects on the two indicators of physical - infrastructure development and Quality of Life and their impact on the environmental protection index with total effect of -0.234 was Negative.

Cities are considered the most important civilization achievements of nations. Hence as such old cities and human settlements increase, they are more valuable historically and territorial identity. People consider the oldness of an urban place and area the symbol of their own identities. The historical textures of the city as the cradle of urban identity and memory are important and need special care and attention. Since the damage to this common heritage of citizens and country is not repairable, they need to be a top priority for authorities and planners. In this article which is descriptive - analytical and functional – it is tried to use SWOT technique in order to analyze the effective strategies in the renewal and improvement of Yazd historical texture. A field and document-desk study was employed to analyze the items. According to the final scores, the results are as follows: strengths (304.21), weaknesses (299.35), opportunities (276.05), and threats (318.19). For this purpose, the best strategy to deal with the problems and to minimize them is to maximize the strengths and minimize the threats, known as ST or conservative strategy.

Introduction: Upper crossed syndrome is a form of muscle skeletal system involvement that leads muscles of the anterior and upper trunk be short and tight and the posterior part of the muscles be weak. Janda Upper cross syndrome mostly associated with abnormalities of the forward head , forward shoulder, away scapula and increased thoracic kyphosis and will cause wide variations in a quarter of the upper body. Common methods of correcting these abnormalities are corrective exercises. The Purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of strength training, stretch training and comprehensive training in patients with upper crossed syndrome. Materials and Methods: Forty females students with excessive forward head > 46ﹾﹾ, forward shoulder > 52ﹾﹾ and kyphosis > 42ﹾﹾ angle were chosen as samples using purposive sampling method. The average of age 22.22 ± 1.77 years, weight 61/2.2 ± 1.90 kg, height 161.85 ± 2.55 cm and body mass index of the samples 23.37 ± 0.90 kg/m2. The subjects were randomly divided into four groups of 10 experimental and control groups. The first experimental group performed strength training, second group stretch training and third group comprehensive training for 6 weeks. In this period, the control group did not receive any training. In this study, photogrammetric method technique was used to measure the angle of the forward head and forward shoulder. A flexible ruler was used to measure the angle of kyphosis (r = 0.93). Angle of forward head, forward shoulder and kyphosis was measured before and after 6 weeks. data were analyzed using paired t-test and SPSS (P ≤ 0.05). Results: According to in study, paired T-test results in the experimental group showed that the significant decrease in the angle forward shoulder (P = 0.001), forward head (P = 0.005) and kyphosis (P = 0.001) of three types of exercise (strengthing, stretching, comprehensive) was found after 6 weeks. However, a significant decrease in the angle of forward head and shoulder and kyphosis was not found in the control group. One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) showed that between the effects of different exercises on the forward shoulder angle (p = 0.001), forward head angle (P = 0.001) and kyphosis angle (P = 0.001) there are significant difference. According to the tukey test results, implementation of corrective exercises, strengthing (P = 0.001), stretching (P = 0.001), and comprehensive (P = 0.001) there is a significant difference with the control group. However between the strength training groups, stretching and comprehensive with each other in forward shoulder group, no significant difference was observed. While between of effect the comprehensive training in forward head and kyphosis abnormalities was significant difference compared to other exercises. Conclusion: Forward head and kyphosis angle decreased in the comprehensive group compared to other training programs, showed the Better efficiency of this training program. While between the group strength training, stretching and comprehensive with each other on the forward shoulder significant difference was not found. Importantly, the data showed that although there is no significant difference in the training program. However, statistical trends and the effectiveness has been more of the comprehensive training program. The results demonstrated a significant decrease in the angle of forward head, forward shoulder and kyphosis in the experimental group. Therefore, using this program is recommended in subjects with upper crossed syndrome deformity.

Background and Aim: Oxidative stresses are involved in neuronal degeneration of substantia nigra and thereby induction of Parkinson's disease. It is reported that Foeniculum Vulgare L. can affect lactating and modulating dopaminergic system activity and antioxidant activity as well. In the present study, the effects of methanolic extract of Foeniculum Vulgare seeds on a Parkinson’s disease model induced by ICV injection of 6-hydroxydopamin (6-OHDA) in female rats were investigated. Materials and Methods: In this experimental study, 60 female rats were randomly divided into 6 equal groups including saline, Parkinson’s disease and Parkinson’s groups which were treated by different doses of the extract. Parkinson’s disease was induced by i.c.v injection of 6-OHDA. Methanolic extract of Foeniculum Vulgare seeds (100 and 200 mg/kg) was gavaged through two ways including repeated gavage (14 days before and 14 days after 6-OHDA injection) and acute gavage (once every day for 14 days after 6-OHDA injection). The induced Parkinson`s disease. was evaluated using Rotarod and Wire grasping tests on the day 14th after 6-OHDA injection. Results: The findings of the study demonstrated that repeated gavage of Foeniculum Vulgare extract improved motility and muscle tone in Parkinson’s animals (Pp

Background and Aim: The Y-chromosome azoospermic factor (AZF) regions consist of genes whose specific roles and functions in spermatogenesis and fertility have not been completely clarified. Hence, recognition of the association between AZF microdeletions and male infertility has suggestions for the diagnosis, treatment, and genetic counseling. The main objective of the present study was investigation of Y chromosome microdeletions in the non-obstructive azoospermic and oligospermic patients in Mashhad and identification of appropriate STS markers associated with azoospermia and oligospermia. Materials and Methods: This descriptive-analytical study was performed on 45 infertile men with azoospermia and oligospermia with normal karyotypes referred to infertility center of Montaseriyeh hospital in Mashhad. Molecular screening technique was performed by using Multiplex PCR and sequence-tagged sites (STS) primers according to the EAA/EMQN guideline for detection of microdeletions in Y-chromosomal AZF regions and the Y specific sequences. Results: Three out of 45 infertile men had deletions in the AZFc and AZFa regions. Among every 3 infertile men, two patients (7.7%) and one patient (5%) had microdeletion in the AZFc region and in the AZFa, respectively. The results indicated that AZF microdeletions had a significant effect on azoospermia and oligospermia in infertile men. Conclusion: Y-chromosome microdeletion analysis can be recommended as an important molecular test for infertile males to obtain reliable genetic information before the administration of assisted-reproductive techniques. It will help to decrease the cost and technical difficulty of the procedure.

(Received 5 Oct, 2008; Accepted 14 Feb, 2009)AbstractBackground and purpose: Occult hepatitis B infection (OBI) is defined as a form of hepatitis B that despite absence of detectable HBsAg, HBV-DNA is present in patient’s peripheral blood. Genetic and immunological differences appear to play important roles in producing OBI. Therefore, this project was aimed to examine the expression of a chemokine receptor (CCR5) on CD8 T cells of OBI patients.Materials and methods: In this experimental study, 3,700 HBsAg- plasma samples were collected. Samples were tested for anti-HBc antibody and all of HBsAg-/anti-HBc+ samples were screened for HBV-DNA by PCR. HBV-DNA positive samples were assigned as OBI cases. Also, flow cytometry analysis was performed to examine the expression of CCR5 on CD8 T cells of OBI patients.Results: Results of current study showed that 352 (9.5%) cases of samples were positive for anti-HBc. Examination of HBsAg-/anti-HBc+ samples for HBV-DNA by PCR showed that 57 (16.1%) cases had HBV-DNA. Flow cytometric studies indicated lymphocytosis in these patients; however, the number of cells which expressed CD8 and CCR5 is decreased significantly in patients, compared to healthy control. In addition to CD8 T cells, the expression of CCR5 is also decreased on all immune cells.Conclusion: One of the chemokine receptors which are expressed by CD8+ T cells is CCR5 and these cells are recruited to infected tissues, including liver by CCR5. Therefore, based on results of this investigation, one may conclude that due to the decreased expression of CCR5, the CD8+ T cells are unable to respond to the chemokines (CCR5 ligands) and, hence, can not immigrate to the infected liver and incorporate in clearance of hepatitis B virus.J Mazand Univ Med Sci 2009; 19(68): 11-18 (Persian)

(Received 25 May, 2009 ; Accepted 10 August, 2009)AbstractBackground and purpose: In the present study, we compared the intensity of physical dependency, mortality rate and weight changes in some common methods for inducing morphine dependency.Materials and methods: Six common different methods for morphine dependency were chosen in wistar rats. In all methods, morphine dependency was induced by repeated morphine injection. Precipitation of morphine withdrawal signs were performed on the last day in each method, 4 hours after the last morphine injection for 20 minutes. The withdrawal signs included: vertical jumping, wet dog shakes, diarrhea, teeth chattering, ptosis, head shakes and rearing.Results: Our results demonstrated that all groups of treated rats showed withdrawal signs following naloxone challenge. However, the intensities of withdrawal signs (vertical jumping, wet dog shakes, diarrhea, teeth chattering, head shakes and rearing) were significantly different among these methods. Also, mortality rate and amount of weight loss were significantly different among the different methods.Conclusion: This study demonstrates that different experimental methods of morphine dependency can induce different intensities of withdrawal signs, mortality rate and weight loss. J Mazand Univ Med Sci 2009; 19(71): 20-26 (Persian)

(Received 26 August, 2009 ; Accepted 18 Novamber, 2009)AbstractBackground and purpose: Occult hepatitis B infection (OBI) is a form of hepatitis in which despite the absence of detectable HBsAg, HBV-DNA is present in peripheral blood of patients. Investigators believed that the genetics and immunological parameters may be different in resistant individuals and patients. Cytokines, such as IL-12, could be leading to alteration in viral immune response. The main aim of this study was to investigate the serum level of IL12 in OBI patients.Materials and methods: In this study, the plasma samples of 3700 HBsAg negative blood donors were tested for anti-HBs by ELISA. The HBsAg negative and anti-HBc positive samples were selected and screened for HBV-DNA by PCR. HBV-DNA positive samples were assigned as OBI cases and ELISA technique were performed to examine the serum level of IL-12 in OBI and 100 healthy controls.Results: Our results showed that there was no significant difference in serum level of IL-12 between OBI patients and controls.Conclusion: In order to be clear of viruses, L-12 is increased in viral infection. Based on the results of this study, it is concluded that OBI patients can not produce enough IL-12 to clear HBV. J Mazand Univ Med Sci 2009; 19(72): 81-83 (Persian)