Search

Background and Objectives Count of blood cells alters in the Covid-19 patients and by identifying its relationship with disease severity, the proper treatment could be provided. The present study was conducted with the aim of investigating the relationship between blood cell count and the disease severity of Covid-19. Materials and Methods This retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted on profiles of 370 inpatients with Covid-19 in a hospital in Hamadan. The disease severity in inpatients was classified as acute/ high risk and as severe types using by world health organization guideline and author previous studies. Blood cell counts were obtained from patient profiles and cell counter. The collected data were analyzed using SPSS version 24 software. Chi square, independent T-test and logistic regression were used for data analysis with significance level of p< 0.05. Results The mean count of red blood cell, white blood cell and platelet in patients with acute and highrisk form of Covid-19 were lower (p= 0.001), higher (p= 0.005) and lower (p= 0.001), respectively in comparison to severe form. According to logistic regression results, red blood cell, white blood cell and platelet count had impact on disease severity meaningfully (p = 0.003, 0.004, and 0.003 respectively). Conclusions Red blood cell count is one of the influential factors on disease severity of Covid-19. Therefore, these parameters could be used as determining indicators in the assessment of disease severity and better treatment management in the Covid-19 patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: Colorectal cancer is one of the most common types of cancer worldwide, which ranks second in cancer deaths in Iran. This study was conducted with the aim of explaining the effective factors of non-participation in the colorectal cancer screening program in adults based on the health belief model in Iran. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 683 adults aged 50-70 years (338 women and 345 men) in the health centers of Daran City of Isfahan. The data was collected using a researcher-made questionnaire based on the health belief model in the summer of 1401. SPSS.23 statistical software was used for data analysis, mean, frequency for description, and correlation and Logistic regression tests were used for data analysis. Results: The mean age of the participants was 57.5 (standard deviation 8.7) and most of them were men (50.5%). The results of the logistic regression analysis showed that the demographic and cognitive variables based on the health belief model were significantly predicted non-participating in the screening of colorectal cancer in health centers (Adj R=0.46, P<0.01). Among the entered demographic variables, family history of colorectal cancer (OR: 7.69; 95% CI: 3.45-17.09) and among the cognitive variables, knowledge (OR=1.61, 95% CI:1.36-1.9) and Perceived barriers (OR=0.88, 95% CI:0.85-0.92) had the highest predictive power in nonparticipation. Conclusion: The results of the present study emphasized the low-risk perception and low knowledge of adults who did not participate in the program. Therefore, it is recommended to use community-based programs to raise people's awareness of the perceived risk of colorectal cancer and the possibility of performing a fit test in health service centers. It is also recommended to create strategies to facilitate participation in the program (such as home screening or mailing) in adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Different cultivars of a host plant can have an important effect on the behavioral charectristics of natural enemies. In this study, the effect of three wheat cultivars (Ehsan, Morvarid, and Tirgan) on functional responses of 4th instar larvae and adult males and females of Hippodamia variegata Goeze on different densities (2, 4, 8, 16, 24, 32, 64, 96, 128, and 160) of 4-d-old nymphs of Schizaphis graminum Rondani was studied. The experiments were conducted at 25±2 °C, 65±5 RH and 16L:8D h photoperiod. The logistic regression analyses revealed that the functional responses of different growth stages of H. variegata to S. graminum on differen wheat cultivars were type II. According to the results, the highest attack rate was estimated for 4th instar larvae of H. variegata on Ehsan and Tirgan cultivars (0.152 and 0.154 h-1, respectively). Also, the lowest handling time (0.127 h) was valued for 4th instar larvae on Ehsan cultivar. The predation rate of 4th instar larvae of H. variegata was also highest on Ehsan cultivar. The results of this study revealed the high efficiency of 4th instar larvae of H. variegata in feeding on S. graminum on Ehsan cultivar followed by Tigasn and Morvarid cultivars. Similar results were obtained for adult femles and males of the predator. However, further studies are necessary to evaluate the effect of these cultivars on searching bahavior and consumption rate of different stages of H. variegata on S. graminum under natural conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: Domestic violence during pregnancy poses a serious threat to the physical, mental, and emotional health of both the mother and the fetus. Ultimately, it also jeopardizes the overall health and structure of society. Therefore, this study was conducted with the aim of determining the relationship between domestic violence during pregnancy and neonatal outcomes in pregnant women residing in Rafsanjan City. Materials and Methods: In this case-control study, data collection was performed through a three-part questionnaire, which included demographic information, domestic violence experiences, and infant outcomes. The sample size for the case group (comprising individuals with at least one neonatal outcome) was determined to be 20 people. To achieve this number, interviews were conducted with 211 pregnant women who visited Niknafs Maternity Hospital in Rafsanjan during 2019 and 2020. For each case subject, three individuals without any neonatal outcomes matched in terms of age and number of children, were selected as controls (60 people in total). The obtained data were analyzed using multiple logistic regression. Results: Out of the control group, 13 individuals (21.7%) and out of the case group, 10 individuals (50%) experienced violence during pregnancy (p=0.015). The results of multiple logistic regression analysis indicated that after adjusting for the spouse's age, the odds of experiencing at least one neonatal outcome were 3.29 times higher in mothers who were subjected to violence during pregnancy compared to those who were not (p=0.036). Conclusion: According to the current study, it can be concluded that domestic violence leads to an increase in pregnancyrelated consequences and complications. Consequently, it is crucial to implement intervention programs and raise awareness to address this issue effectively. [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. The Urban Family Physician Program (UFPP) has been implemented in Fars and Mazandaran provinces of Iran since 2013 with the aim of improving access and utilization of health services, with a particular focus on children and adolescents. In order to evaluate the effectiveness of the program in achieving this goal, this study aimed to compare the access and utilization of health services among children living in areas covered by the UFPP with those living in other regions of Iran. Methods. A secondary analysis was performed using data from the 2015 National Health Utilization Survey. The data of people aged under 18 were extracted and indicators on the use of health services based on three main models of health service provisions were compared:(1) cities in Fars and Mazandaran provinces (UFPP implemented);(2) cities in other Iranian provinces (excluding Fars and Mazandaran); and (3) villages and cities with a population under 20,000. Results. The study included 20,689 children. The outpatient and inpatient visits in children living in Fars and Mazandaran provinces were higher than in children from other provinces and smaller towns (11.89 vs. 7.92 and 7.21 for outpatient and 4.74 vs. 3.51 and 4.27 for inpatient, respectively). Furthermore, UFPP was found to be associated with a higher utilization of health services in children residing in cities (odds ratio=1.50 (1.98-1.15)). Additionally, the cost of outpatient and inpatient health services in areas where the UFPP was implemented was lower compared to other parts of the country. Conclusion. The urban family physician program has been successful in increasing the access to health services and reducing health costs in children. Practical Implications. The findings suggest that the urban family physician program can be an effective strategy for improving healthcare access and reducing costs, especially in areas with high population density. Policymakers and healthcare providers can use the results of this study to inform the development and implementation of similar programs in other countries, with the aim of improving healthcare access and reducing healthcare costs in children and adolescents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives Blood transfusion is a major challenge in treating trauma patients. This study investigated blood transfusion rates and related factors in trauma patients. Materials and Methods This retrospective cross-sectional study analyzed 849 trauma patients admitted to a trauma center in Shiraz, Iran during 2019-2021. Blood components usage and its relation to demographics, clinical status, lab values, and ABC score were assessed. The frequency of massive blood transfusion and the average number of blood units and blood components consumed in these patients were surveyed. Data were analyzed by T-test, Chi-squared test, and logistic regression with SPSS-23. Results The mean age was 38.6 ± 19.40 years and 80.9% were male. The mean blood units, platelets, and plasma used were 5.74 ± 4.57, 1.21 ± 4.87, 2.73 ± 4.32, respectively. 62.01% received massive transfusion with mean blood, platelets, and plasma units used being 8.17 ± 5.21, 3.92 ± 4.88 and 1.85 ± 6.01, respectively. Blood use correlated with systolic/diastolic pressures, blood sugar, lymphocyte count, pH, bicarbonate, base deficit, and hematocrit. 13.3% had positive ABC score and received more blood products (p < 0.001). Conclusions Blood transfusion in trauma patients depends on various clinical and lab factors. Identifying high-risk patients requiring urgent blood transfusion and rapid preparation of blood products is vital for optimizing trauma patient management and outcome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Smoking at a younger age puts people at greater risk for health damage. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between the age of smoking onset and high- risk behaviors such as smoking, alcohol consumption, substance abuse, and high-risk sexual behavior among university students in Tabriz, Iran. Methods. This web-based, cross-sectional study was conducted in Tabriz, Iran, in 2019. A total of 3,649 students were included in the study according to the proportion of students in each university. The required information was collected through an online questionnaire. Logistic regression analysis was used to assess the relationship between the age of smoking onset and high-risk behaviors. Results. The mean (standard deviation) age of the participants in the study was 22.85 (3.66) years old, and 55.7% were boys. The findings of the study indicate that students who initiated smoking at the age of 16 or younger exhibited higher likelihoods of alcohol consumption over the previous 30 days (OR= 1.77, CI 95%: 1.20 - 2.62) and participation in unsafe sexual practices (OR= 1.54, CI 95%: 1.06 - 2.26) compared to their non-smoking counterparts. Conclusion. Early smoking onset is associated with high-risk behaviors. The age of onset of smoking should be considered as one of the factors associated with high-risk behaviors, and smoking prevention programs should be started from adolescence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. In 2019, a new disease called Covid-19 was identified in Wuhan, China. Anyone can get this disease at any age and become seriously ill, or even die from it. This study aimed to determine the factors affecting the re-admission of coronary patients. Methods. In this study, 2411 Covid-19 patients referring to Shahid Mostafa Khomeini Hospital in Ilam, Iran were included. Variables such as gender, age, death, body mass index, headache, vomiting, having cold, cough, muscle pain, underlying disease, fever, hemoglobin, blood platelets, glucose as well as ALT, AST, and LDH enzymes were examined. SPSS software was used to fit the model of multiple logistic regressions in soft. Results. Majority of the patients (54.5%) were males. The average age of readmitted patients was 63 years, and 23% of these patients died. The results of logistic regression test showed the variables of age (OR=1.02, P=0.029), sex (OR=0.637, P=0.047), underlying disease (OR=2.36, P=<0.001), hemoglobin (OR=0.91, P=0.04), blood platelet count (OR=0.99, P<0.001), vomiting or nausea (OR=0.48, P=0.03), and muscle pain (OR=0.61, P=0.04). Effective factors were also identified. Conclusion. It was concluded that having a comorbid disease and old age increased the chances of re-admission. Moreover, it was scientifically confirmed that an increase in age along with having an underlying disease significantly contributed to re-admission of patients with Covid-19. Practical Implications. The maximum effectiveness of the treatment of Covid-19 patients was confirmed by this study and, therefore, it was recommended that re-hospitalization should be avoided in order to avoid additional treatment costs and waste of resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. The Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is still a global leading public health issue, especially in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Vaccine hesitancy can decelerate the effect of mass vaccination programs. This study aimed to assess the determinants of COVID-19 vaccination acceptance and its relationship with the perceived risk of COVID-19 among the Iranian population at the beginning of the vaccination program. Methods. In this cross-sectional survey conducted in June 2021 in Tabriz, Iran, 500 subjects aged 18-64 years were investigated. The collected data included the demographic variables, participants' previous COVID-19 infection, history of the COVID-19 infection and mortality in the participant's family members, perceived risk of COVID-19, and COVID-19 vaccine acceptance. The data were analyzed using the SPSS software version 16. Independent t-test and logistic regression were also performed. Results. The acceptance, doubt, and rejection of COVID-19 vaccine were reported by 232 (46.4%), 129 (25.8%), and 139 (27.8%) cases, respectively. Multivariate regression analysis showed that the age, education level, profession, and perceived risk of COVID-19 were significantly associated with the acceptance of the COVID-19 vaccine. Conclusion. The acceptance rate of the COVID-19 vaccine was not optimal among the studied population at the beginning of vaccination program, and about half of the participants reported the vaccine acceptance. People with low education, low perceived risk level for COVID-19, and younger people may have been considered a high-risk group for doubt or rejection of the COVID-19 vaccine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Having accurate quantitative and qualitative information about the state of forest stands, is necessary for any basic management and planning, to reduce the effects of forest degradation. The current study aimed to model the destruction of Hyrcanian forests under the effects of density and volume (per hectare) variables, using logistic regression. In total, 252 plots of 1000 m2 area were measured. In each sample plot, species name, Diameter at Breast Height (DBH), height, density, volume and the presence or absence of forest degradation were measured and recorded. To model forest degradation, logistic regression model was utilized and Omnibus test, log-likelihood and pseudo r-square (Cox&Snell and Nagelkerke) coefficients were used to evaluate the model. Results showed that the mean of density and volume of trees were 136.8 tree and 239.9 m3/ha, respectively. In addition, the results indicated that 46.82% of the study area was degraded. The results of correlation test showed that there was a srtong negative correlation between quantitative variables and the forest degradation. The independent variables of density and volume of trees were respectively explained 61.6 to 82.3% of the variance of the dependent variable (forest degradation). Among the input variables of the regression model, the effects of density and volume were significant on the forest degradation and it was possible to predict the changes of dependent variables (presence or absence of forest degradation). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

Lending microloans for employment creation and prosperity of production is an appropriate way to empower the poor, generate income, reduce poverty and improve food security. Nevertheless, the evidence shows that part of these microloans is faced with moral hazards and spent on non-productive affairs. This study aimed to investigate the spending of business microloans granted by local microcredit funds in the county of Qaleh Ganj in Kerman province and to identify the most important factors affecting their efficient usage. The statistical population consisted of 21,000 rural members of the microcredit funds set up in Qaleh Ganj County. The sample size was calculated using the G*Power software (n = 203) and the sampling was carried out by multistage sampling. The results showed that 46.8% of the members used their production loans in a non-productive way and took it out of the business, 44.3% of the respondents used their loans to maintain their previous business and 8.9% of them used their loans to create new jobs. Logistic regression analysis showed that the variables, namely "times of supervision", "number of group members", "dissatisfaction with high monthly installments", "perceived behavioral control", "perception of job performance", "perceived career advancement prospects" and "level of education" have explained between 46 and 61 percent of the individual membership in both groups of the dependent variable "using business microloans for business development". [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background & Aims: The aging of the population has caused an increase in the number of elderly people who receive treatment for cardiovascular disease. The prevalence of coronary artery disease is higher in the elderly, and on the other hand, complications after cardiac events are worse in the elderly. The most common cause of death in the elderly is cardiovascular disease. Rapid restoration of blood flow can lead to myocardial survival, preservation of cardiac function, and prolongation of the patient's life, and many clinical trial studies have been conducted to investigate the effect of Thrombolytics, and their results showed that Thrombolytics preserve ventricular function. Primary coronary angioplasty was defined as the primary revascularization strategy for acute myocardial infarction without or with prior thrombolytic therapy. In the last two decades, it has been shown that the complications of coronary artery syndrome have decreased with the development of therapeutic strategies such as revascularization, medical treatment, and risk factors in follow-up after discharge. Data from many cardiovascular centers have shown that angioplasty not only leads to a significant reduction in mortality but also in coronary ischemic events. Elderly people who have concurrent diseases such as lung diseases, kidney diseases, and cerebrovascular accidents and suffer from coronary accidents accept angioplasty with caution. This is even though in symptomatic patients with chronic coronary disease, revascularization leads to the resolution of symptoms and improvement of the patient's life expectancy. Despite the effects of coronary artery disease on the quality of life, morbidity, and mortality of the elderly, in the majority of cardiovascular studies, the elderly 75 years and older were significantly less expressed and directly due to advanced age, and complex co-morbidities, and significant physical and cognitive disabilities., fatigue, living in a nursing home, and decline in daily functioning were excluded from the study. Therefore, recent guidelines cannot provide evidence-based recommendations for the diagnosis and treatment of coronary diseases in the elderly. Choosing the correct treatment strategy for the elderly with acute coronary artery disease is due to the importance of the burden of care from the economic, social, and family points of view. Also, few studies are comparing the effect of medical treatment with revascularization in the elderly 75 years and older. The aim of the study is to determine whether elderly people benefit from primary angioplasty compared to medical treatment alone and the side effects of each of these treatments in the elderly. Methods: The present study is a prospective cohort type, which was approved by the ethical code IR.TUMS.MEDICINE.REC.1397.934 in the ethical code commission of the Faculty of Medicine of Tehran University of Medical Sciences and 97 samples were taken in 9 months from June 2018 to the end of March. were collected and then for 24 hours and 30 days after the treatment (medical/angioplasty), the elderly (mostly 60 years old) with acute coronary artery disease were followed up in terms of the effectiveness and side effects of the treatments. All elderly people diagnosed with acute coronary syndrome hospitalized in two teaching hospitals of Tehran University of Medical Sciences were included in the study and evaluated in two groups. The first group of the interventional treatment group: was patients who were diagnosed with acute coronary syndrome and were treated with angioplasty from the beginning, and the second group, the optimal medical treatment group: patients who were treated with standard medical treatment from the beginning (including Thrombolytics, oral beta blockers, intravenous nitrates, antiplatelet Duals such as aspirin and Clopidogrel, intravenous anticoagulants such as heparin or enoxaparin, statin and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blockers 2) were included according to the latest guidelines. In this prospective cohort study, all patients aged 60 years and older with the acute coronary syndrome were collected by face-to-face interview and case evaluation from two teaching hospitals, Tehran University of Medical Sciences from 2018, and they were divided into two primary and medical angioplasty groups in terms of complications., mortality and efficacy of 24 hours and 30 days were compared. Results: Out of 120 patients with an average age of 71.2±8.2 years, 52 and 68 patients received primary angioplasty and medical treatment, respectively. The majority of patients in the primary angioplasty group were male (57.7%) and female (57.4%) in the medical group (p=0.07). In the first 24 hours, comparing the two groups with the logistic regression method, atrial fibrillation was significantly 11 times higher in the medical group (p=0.016) and improvement of angina in the primary angioplasty group was 3.8 times higher (p=0.04). The 30-day mortality rate was significantly higher in the medical group (p=0.006). Conclusion: These results indicate that we overestimate the risks associated with revascularization in the elderly and deprive people of useful treatments. With increasing age, despite the significant reduction of hospital and short-term mortality by about 5 times, increasing the rate of angina recovery and fewer complications in angioplasty, this treatment method is less often chosen in elderly patients, and elderly people are less likely to choose this method due to their age. They are denied treatment. There are sufficient reasons for the elderly and very elderly with good tolerance to angioplasty. The success rate of immediate angioplasty and the survival rate without complications are similar to young patients, so old age is not a contraindication for angioplasty. Also, old age is not an independent risk factor for poor prognosis. In addition, complete revascularization in very elderly patients may improve prognosis and reduce the incidence of cardiac events. This study included limitations. Collecting samples from two different hospitals, one of these hospitals was not able to perform angioplasty in patients with angioplasty indication due to the lack of an angiography department, and the patients were forced to undergo medical treatment, which also led to a decrease in the number of The samples included in the angioplasty group and the bias in the selection of patients with real indications for medical treatment. On the other hand, it also leads to an increase in complications. The low sample size and the age of the patients included in the study were among the limitations of this study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Errors are inevitable in accounting and factors such as diversity and complexity of economical subjects, workloads, exhaustion, and similar issues increase their likelihood. As well, the constant change of the economic, social, and other factors makes it vital to consider the change of the accounting principles and methods, in order to enable the adaptation of the enterprises to new conditions, since all these issues can result in the detection of manipulation of earnings in the financial statements.This subject received serious attention after the Enron Corporation scandal incurred. This research aims to prove the need for the application of the enhanced Beneish Model for credited companies listed in the Tehran Stock Exchange between the years 2009 and 2020. Target sample consists of 265 companies, which have been used to estimate and improve the Benish model using logit regression and genetic algorithm. The result shows that, according to the Confusion Matrix, among all models of detection of manipulation of earnings in financial statements, the genetic algorithm Beneish model has maintained 73.21 accuracies, which is considered the highest rate for predictability compared to the primary Beneish model and models offered with logistic regression, thus the theory of this writing is approved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Sexual dysfunction affects quality of life, and many social problems; therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of sexual dysfunction and some related demographic factors in women of reproductive age in Bushehr. Materials and Methods: The present study is a cross-sectional study that was conducted online on 548 married women aged 15 to 49 living in Bushehr. Sampling was based on random stratification among all ten health centers of Bushehr city. Data were collected using a demographics checklist and the Female Sexual Function Index for assessing the participants’ sexual performance in six domains. Data analysis was done by SPSS software version 22 using Chi-square and logistic regression. The significance level for all tests was less than 0.05. Results: In this study 267 persons of 548 participants (48.7%) experienced sexual dysfunction. The results showed that 48.7% of women. Among the demographic variables, level of education (p<0.001), level of family income (p=0.014), dissatisfaction with the spouse (p=0.005), history of sexual dysfunction (p<0.001) and sexual function status (p<0.001) were the predictors of sexual dysfunction. Conclusion: Prevalence of sexual dysfunction in married women in Bushehr is relatively high. Since sexual function status is a strong predictor of sexual dysfunction, it can be used to identify people with sexual dysfunction. The diagnosis and treatment of female sexual disorders should be facilitated in order to prevent such disorders. It is necessary that interventions be designed and implemented to improve sexual function in women who have disputes with their husbands or have an insufficient income. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Due to the relatively high prevalence of benign breast diseases in women and the hormonal relationship in puberty and regulating the growth rate of epithelial cells and stromal cells of the breast, more attention to these effective hormonal factors will be effective in reducing the prevalence of these diseases. The aim of the present study was to investigate the relationship between the use of hormonal contraceptive pills and the prevalence of fibroadenoma in women referred to Khatam al-Anbia Breast Cancer Clinic in Jahrom and healthy women referred to Khatam al-Anbia Clinic in Jahrom Materials and Methods: In this descriptive-analytical study, 610 women referred to Khatam Al-Anbia Breast Cancer Clinic in Jahrom participated in 2019. The data collection tool in this study was a researcher-made questionnaire that the validity of this questionnaire was determined by 5 professors of the Department of Surgery and Obstetrics and its reliability was determined by Cronbach's alpha test of 85%. Data analysis was performed using SPSS software version 21 and descriptive and inferential statistical tests Results: 610 women aged 20-60 years who referred to Khatamah Al-Anbia Clinic in Jahrom participated in the study. The history of hyperlipidemia in women participating in the study had the highest frequency in fibroadenoma and non-fibroadenoma groups. Also in the fibroadenoma group, 30.2% of women were overweight and 10.4% obese, while in the group without fibroadenoma, 43.7% of women were overweight and 24.6% were obese. Regarding the use of hormonal drugs, the results of logistic regression by modulating the effect of age and BMI showed that the duration of use of OCP, OR = 0.93 (CI: 0.55,1.56)) was not significantly associated with the chance of developing benign breast masses (PV: 0.78) Conclusion: The results of this study showed that the use of birth control pills (OCP) is not associated with the occurrence of benign breast diseases. However, due to the relationship between the use of hormonal pills or malignant breast diseases, it is better to do this study from other angles and by modifying confounding variables and on a larger scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Vaccination is one of the most effective available tools to prevent infectious diseases. Due to the great importance of vaccination of children, the present study aimed to determine the status of vaccination coverage in children in Abadan before and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Material and Methods: In this descriptive study, data related to the vaccination status of 115 children born in 1398 and 98 children born in 1399 were collected. Vaccination delay status was recorded as a ranking variable with a range from "no delay" to "no vaccination" and in four age groups "at birth", two, 4 and 6 months. Number (percentage) was used to present the delay status of vaccination in population subgroups. GEE (generalized estimating equations) and two-way and rank logistic regression were used to compare the delay status of different vaccination periods between two years and also to examine the relationship between demographic variables and delay in vaccination. Analyzes were performed using SPSS 24 software at a significance level of 0.05. Results: With the passage of time from the birth of the baby, a significant increase in the rate of delay in vaccination was observed in both years. Comparing different times between two years, the chance of delay in vaccination in all times of 1399 was higher than 1398 and over time this difference increased so that in 1399 the chance of long delay in four months OR = 1.59 (p = 0.062) and six months OR = 4.87 (p <0.001) was equal to 1398. In general comparison, the chance of long delay in 1399, OR = 1.54 (p = 0.002) was equal to the chance of long delay in 1398. Maternal employment and the child with an underlying disease had a significant effect on increasing the delay in vaccination. Conclusions: Due to the decrease in parental visits for vaccination of children during the Covid-19 epidemic, health officials should make more efforts to maintain coverage and vaccination during this or similar periods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Oral health is an important factor affecting quality of life. This research examined the correlates of demand for basic dental services among the Iranian households. Materials & Methods: This research was a secondary data analysis of cross-sectional data in which the data extracted from National Survey of Iran’s Household Income and Expenditure Survey-2018 were analyzed. The study sample included 17548 eligible households from whole country. The logistic regression model was used to analyze demand for basic dental services. Three regression models were estimated. Results: The probability of demand for basic dental services was reduced as households’ heads were more educated, non-married or unemployed (p value < 0.05). The probabilities of demand for basic dental services were higher among households of higher income quintiles comparing to the first income quintile (p value < 0.05). Furthermore, the probability of demand for basic dental services was higher among those households with elderlies aged more than 70 years old or those households with children aged between 6-12 years old (p value < 0.05). Conclusion: The possibility of demand for basic dental services was correlated to demographic and economic factors as well as age component of household’s members. As a result, dental health policymakers should pay attention to demographic and economic status and age status of population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction Dietary diversity is a feature of healthy diets. This is because essential nutrients are not present in one type of food at the same time, rather, they are found in a diet consisting of several nutrients. However, in recent years, the food tastes of Iranian families have shifted to high-calorie and non-nutritional value foods, which has increased the number of patients with non-communicable diseases in the country. The choice and acceptance of different diets depends on environmental, economic, socio-cultural and psychological factors. Materials and Methods Since ensuring health and food security is one of the strategic goals of the country 20-year vision document, the present study evaluates the dietary diversity of households and its effective factors in Tehran province. To achieve this goal, the raw information of household expenditure-income in 2020 has been used. In the present study, the Berry dietary diversity index (BI) was used to quantify the dietary diversity variable and the order logit model was used to investigate and evaluate the effect of demographic, economic and social variables on it. Results and Discussion The results showed that only 23.2% of Tehran households have high dietary diversity and 76.8% of households have low or medium dietary diversity. Based on the results, the variables of head household age, place of residence, working hours of household head and household income level has a positive (direct) association and in contrast, the variables of head of household literacy, household size and employment status of head of household in a negative (inverse) direction affect the level of dietary diversity of households in Tehran province. Conclusion The food diversity of households in Tehran province is very low. If the food price level is low and stable, increasing incomes can lead consumers to diversify their food baskets and move from consuming low-value cereals and root and tuber products to consuming high-nutrition foods such as meat, dairy, and fruits and vegetables. In this regard, a review of the experience of many European, Latin American and Asian countries shows that stability in food prices along with cash aid and targeted food packages can increase consumption and food diversity of households and food security in poor households, especially women and children. Families living in Tehran province, which have a larger population, have less food diversity. As the household dimension increases, the minimum food needs increase; this reduces the volume and quality of food available to the household and leads to food insecurity. In the current situation, the country is struggling with economic problems caused by sanctions, inflation, unemployment. Continuation of this, along with lack of effective support for families, can deprive families of the ability and facilities to have more children due to foodinsecurity. Accordingly, the correct and complete design and implementation of incentive policies and support for large families is necessary. Finally, the role and importance of education and literacy of households in their food diversity is very high. In this regard, responsible organizations can play an important role in obtaining, processing and understanding nutrition information and how to access credible information sources through culture and specialized and general training in food literacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Emotional dysregulation and dissociation symptoms are the main symptoms of people with a borderline personality disorder that cause many problems for these people. Aim: This study aimed to predict the relationship between personality function and pathological traits in patients with borderline personality disorder and standard group through emotion dysregulation and dissociation symptoms. Method: The present study was a causal-comparative and correlational study. The statistical population consisted of 214 students of the academic year 2018-2019 of the University of Kurdistan and 25 patients with borderline personality disorder hospitalized from December to February 2018 in the Quds Psychiatric Hospital by available sampling method and responded to the Scale of Dissociation Experiences, Emotional Difficulty Regulation, Long Scale of Personality Functional Levels, Personality Inventory for DSM-5 and the Personality Disorders Questionnaire. Data analysis was performed using Pearson correlation test and logistic regression analysis by SPSS software version 24. Data analysis was performed using Pearson correlation test and logistic regression analysis by SPSS software version 24. Results: There was a direct and significant relationship between the scores of borderline personality disorder with personality function and dissociation experiences and traits of psychoticism, disinhabition, and detachment at the level of (P<0.000). The present study's findings using logistic regression showed that the dissociation experiences, three pathological traits, and personality dysfunction could differentiate between 27% and 56% of the group with borderline personality disorder from the non-clinical group. Conclusion: According to the results of borderline personality disorder can be predicted through dissociation experiences, personality dysfunction, and pathological traits, and clinicians are advised to consider these symptoms in the diagnosis and treatment of these individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Since the Covid-19 pandemic, research has focused on identifying people at risk and preventing its spread. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between blood groups (ABO) and the risk of COVID-19 infection in Shahroud. Methods: This study is an analytical cross-sectional study. Data from suspected cases of Covid-19 were collected in Shahroud by the Corona Registration System from the beginning of the epidemic in February 2020. In this study, confirmed cases of Covid-19 were defined as those that had a positive RT-PCR test. Logistic regression was used in order to investigate the relationship between ABO and COVID-19 infection, and other variables, such as co-morbidities, age, and gender also were adjusted. Results: In this study, the highest percentage of positive PCR was for B type (49.6%) and then AB (43.1%), but this difference was not significant. In the modeling, a significant relationship was observed between B type and Covid-19 infection, so that the risk is 56% higher. Also, in the study of the relationship between non-O blood groups and adjusted for the variables of age, gender, and comorbidities, it was shown that non-O blood type compared to O blood type increased the odds of infection by35% significantly. Rh did not show a significant association with infection. Conclusion: This study showed that non-O blood types have higher odds of developing Covid-19 compared to the O blood type. Among the various blood types, type B increases the odds of infection by 56%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: Considering that 67 to 90 percent of dental caries in the age of 5 to 17are related to occlusal surface on molars,the use of fissure sealant has been reported as effective in reducing caries. The aim of this study was to assess the clinical effectiveness of fissure sealants placed on permanent first molars between 2016 and 2018 in pediatric department of Dental Faculty, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University. Materials and methods: In this cross sectional descriptive study, the files of patients in whom the first permanent molars fissure sealant was performed by dental students during 2016 to 2018 were extracted and assessed. Before the evaluation, the teeth were cleaned using tooth brush and paste . Fissure sealant retention was evaluated with probe and dental mirror on a dental chair.Data were processed by SPSS25 statistical software and logistic regression model was used to determine the effect of variables.In this study, P<0.05 was considered significant. Results: In 160 fissure sealants done, Complete retention 20.6% (33 teeth), partially retention loss 43.8 % (70teeth) and complete retention loss was 35.6 % (57 teeth) . Conclusion: It seems, more than half teeth, last fissure sealant retention during time, more than 68 percent have no caries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives Chronic blood transfusion can cause alloimmunization in patients with thalassemia. Estimating the frequency of alloimmunization in thalassemia patients can lead to the recognition of existing limitations and the development of appropriate strategies to prevent alloimmunization in thalassemia patients. In this study, we evaluated the prevalence of alloimmunization among patients of thalassemia. Materials and Methods In this cross-sectional and retrospective study, the study population was 92 patients with thalassemia referred to Besat Hospital in Hamadan in 2019. The data of all thalassemia patients was collected by census method and entered into SPSS software version 16. The Data was analyzed using Logestic Regression and significance level by p < 0.05. Results 92 patients including 54 male (58.7% ) and 38 female (41.3%), aged 2-50 years were studied. Among 92 patients, 7 people (7.6%) had positive antibody screening results. The most prevalent detected alloantibodies were anti-c with 6 patients (33.3%), anti-e with 3 patients (16.6%) and anti-JKa with 3 patients (16.6%). The meaningful relation was observed between alloimmunization and hemoglobin concentration (p = 0.006), and alloimmunization and number of blood transfusion (p= 0.009). But there was no significant relation between alloimmunization and age. Conclusions According to the results of this study, anti-c, anti-e, and anti-JKa are the most prevalent alloantibodies in the thalassemia patients in Hamadan. This point could be useful to provide suitable matched blood units for thalassemia patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims: Hypodontia is a dental anomaly which indicates the maternal missing of less than 6 teeth in the dentition. This anomaly is affected by the genetics and environmental factors. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the asymmetric developing of left and right sides permanent teeth in children with hypodontia. This can be useful for comprehensive treatment in these patients. Material and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, the samples were taken from the patients of the dentistry department of Ardabil in years 97-98. The 3 intrusion criteria were: 1- The patients aged 5-14 years who needed OPG for continuing their treatments. 2- No history of medical disease, craniofacial syndromes and clefts in orofacial area. 3- No history of orthodontic treatment. The 12 description levels of Haavikko were used to determine the amounts of permanent teeth development. The bilateral asymmetry of each tooth in children with hypodontia and normal children were compared in the same age. The fischer test and the logistic regression were used to analyze the data with the level of significant p<0/05. Results: From the 1604 number of OPG radiographs, 162 had hypodontia. According to this, the prevalence of hypodontia in the population is 10.16%. The most prevalent missed teeth are the mandibular second premolars, and maxillary lateral incisors. The results showed that the ratio of asymmetry in patients with hypodontia is 11.54. Conclusion: The possibility of asymmetric developing of teeth in children with hypodontia is more than the normal children [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims: Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMDs) are one of the most common causes of the patient's referral to dental clinics. Considering the role of related factors in its creation, the purpose of this study was to investigate the relative frequency of factors related to temporomandibular disorders in patients aged 20 to 50 years referred to dental clinics in Isfahan in 1397. Materials and Methods: In this descriptive and analytical study, 324 patients referred to Isfahan dental clinics in 1397 were randomly included. Factors related to TMD and demographic factors of patients were recorded with clinical examination by a trained dentist and self-declaration of patients in the data collection form. The frequency and relevance were analysed by SPSS 22 software and chi-square, fisher and logistic regression statistic tests. Results: At least one of the TMD related factors was present in 40.7% of the subjects, which the most common factors related to TMD was posterior edentulousness (49.7%). History of jaw dislocation was more common in men (P=0.014) and the frequency of posterior edentulousness was more common in in women (P=0.003). As the age increased, the frequency of posterior edentulousness (P=0.000) and earache (P=0.009) increased. The frequency of posterior edentulousness was higher in housekeepers (P=0.000), the frequency of earache was higher in employees (P=0.005) and the history of jaw dislocation was higher in self-employed persons (P=0.047). Conclusion: The high prevalence of TMD and related factors, such as a history of jaw dislocation, posterior edentulousness, earache, and clenching, requires attention to be identified and treat these problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Different studies have investigated the effects of various factors on self-efficacy and clinical decisionmaking among nurses and other professionals in the fields of health and treatment. There is, however, little research investigating self-efficacy, clinical decision-making, and the level of relationship between them with regard to the environment and culture of organizations. Objective: This study was conducted with the aim of investigating self-efficacy and clinical decision-making among nurses in terms of individual and social variables and discovering the level of relationship between self-efficacy and ‘clinical decision-making among nurses in Guilan Province in 2017-2018. Materials and Methods: This is a descriptive cross-sectional study and 222 nurses working at different units of teaching and treatment centers in the city of Rasht were recruited after obtaining formal written consent from them. The data collection instruments were a demographic questionnaire, a self-efficacy questionnaire and a decision-making questionnaire. To analyze the data, SPSS/ 21 was used. Results: The results showed no significant difference between nurses’ clinical decision-making scores and the demographic variables of age (p=0.4), education level (p=0.27), Bachelor's degree in nursing (p=0.198), work experience (p=0.39) and work shift (p=0.9). There was, however, a significant correlation between self-efficacy score and the age (p=0.001) and work experience at the hospital (p=0.002). The logistic regression analysis indicated that self-efficacy has a significant effect on decision making after controlling for the predictor effects in such a way that by adding one point to the self-efficacy score the score of clinical decision making increased by 0.39 points. Conclusions: Understanding the relationship between self-efficacy and clinical decision-making of nurses can be indicative of the need for various training courses to improve the self-efficacy level of nurses so that this working class can create better clinical decisions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The metabolism of many fats, including free fatty acids and oxidized low density lipoprotein (ox-LDL) play an important role in the development of atherosclerosis. The aim of this study was to determine the association between circulating ox-LDL and acute myocardial infarction. Materials and Methods: The case control study conducted on 43 patients with acute myocardial infarction and 43 volunteers who had no signs, symptoms or history of cardiovascular or cerebrovascular disease and matched to patients for age and sex (control). We used ELISA kit (company of Mercodia, Sweden) to measure circulating ox-LDL. The data recorded and then analyzed by SPSS software version 16. Statistical significance was considered as p-value less than 0.05. Results: Two study groups significantly were no differences as age, sex, smoking, family history of ischemic heart disease, hypertriglyceridemia, hypercholesterolemia, hypertension, diabetes mellitus type 2, and disease existence. There was a significant difference between the mean concentration of ox-LDL in AMI and control group as it was higher in the patients (2.14 ± 1.67 μg/ml) than the controls (1.03 ± 1.18 μg/ml, p= 0.001). Using logistic regression analysis and entering variables of study in the model, ox-LDL factor was independently associated with the risk of myocardial infarction (OR= 1.74, CI95%: 1.23-2.45, P= 0.002). Conclusions: Elevated ox-LDL is associated with the acute myocardial infarction and may also be helpful in the early detection of myocardial infarction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The close interaction between vestibular, psychological and neurological disorders causes inefficient treatment of the patients, so it seems necessary for the physicians to consider psychiatric disorders and get to know their different presentations so that they can offer the best treatment. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the frequency of psychological symptoms in patients with vertigo. Materials and Methods: In this descriptive, cross-sectional study, 104 patients with vertigo referred to neurologic and otolaryngologic clinics of the Poursina and the Amiralmomenin hospitals in Rasht in 2014-2017, were selected by the simple sampling method. After a complete neurologic and otolaryngologic examination, the organic cause of the patient's vertigo (if any) was determined through history taking, clinical examination and necessary paraclinical measures. Then, the patients were asked to complete the SCL-90R questionnaire. Data were analyzed using t test, χ2 and logistic regression statistical tests with SPSS 22.0 software. Results: The mean age of participants was 50.4±18.1 years, of the 46 patients (44.2%) were male and 58 (55.8%) were female (P=0.05). Thirty nine patients were with history of dizziness (37.5%). According to the SCL-90R questionnaire, 28 (27.0%) had pathologic psychological symptoms, of which about one fifth was severe. The most common psychiatric symptoms were anxiety, paranoid, interpersonal sensitivity, somatization and obsessive-compulsive disorder. There was a significant association between the mean of the general symptom index and age of participants (correlation coefficient: -0.36, P <0.001). Logistic regression analysis showed that only age and previous history of vertigo could predict significantly psychological symptoms in our patients (P values 0.004 and 0.05, respectively). Conclusion: In patients with vertigo complaints, psychiatric disorders are common. Therefore, it is better to treat multiple aspects of the patients and pay attention to the treatment of psychiatric disorders at the onset of the disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims: Dental caries is a multifactorial and common disease that leads to a decrease in the quality of life of individuals. The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between serum vitamin D and dental caries in the third year-to-last year students of dental school of Tehran University of Medical Sciences. Materials and Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on 123 dental students. Demographic and health information were completed through a checklist. The level of vitamin D in individuals was measured by blood sampling. We recorded caries by ICDAS (international caries detection and assessment system) in two levels of D(1-6)MFT (total of decayed, filled and missing tooth) and D(3-6)MFT (total of progressive decayed, filled and missing tooth). Data analysis was done by the SPSS package version 25 using statistical tests of correlation and regression. Results: The results showed that the correlation coefficient between vitamin D and caries index D(1-6)MFT was -0.89 with a P-value of 0.3328 which was not statistically significant. Based on the backward logistic regression, there was a positive significant statistical association between the D(3-6)MFT with vitamin D deficiency (P<0.001), weight (P=0.012), dental visit (P=0.023) and frequency of sweet snack consumption (P=0.03). In addition a significant and inverse statistical association was reported between the D(3-6)MFT and milk consumption (P=0.026). Conclusions: Among dentistry students, no relation between vitamin D deficiency and early stages of decay was seen, however this relation was statistically significant in regard with progressive dental caries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The prevalence of sleep disorders in the general population is between 26.4% and 39.4% in Asia, which has increased in Iran in recent decades. Low sleep quality and reduced sleep hours result in work impairment and physical and mental illnesses. This study aimed to improve sleep quality and determine the factors affecting the quality of sleep. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was performed in 2018 among 243 employees presenting to the Center for Occupational Medicine at Gonabad University of Medical Sciences. Demographic data such as age, shift work and education level were asked of the staff. Weight, blood pressure, height and waist circumference were measured. The sleep quality score was extracted by completing the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index. Glucose, triglyceride and cholesterol were also measured. Logistic regression analysis was performed. Significance level was set at 0.05. Results: Among 243 men studied, 99 men (40.7%) had low sleep quality and 126 men (51.9%) reported sleeping less than seven hours a day. age (p=0.021) and waist circumference (p=0.036) and shift work had a direct effect while education had a reverse effect on the quality of sleep. Fasting blood suger, cholesterol, triglesride, body mass index did not have a significant effect on sleep quality. Conclusion: Low sleep quality and inadequate sleep hours causes physical and psychological complications, which mandates planning and training to reduce factors affecting low sleep quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Haftad-Gholleh Area has recently encountered many changes. In this study, by using landsat images of the years 1996 and 2016, landuse maps were classified into four classes including: agriculture, rangeland, residential areas, and rocks. Land Change Modeler (LCM) and Habitat and Biodiversity Modeler (HBM) modules in the Idrisi GIS software were used to analyze the land use changes and habitat evaluation for the prediction of the land uses status in 2016, based on the Artificial Neural Network (ANN), Markov Chain analysis and logistic regression. The results showed that most of the changes in the landscape of the region between 1996 and 2016 were related, respectively, to attrition, aggregation and creation indicators; between the years 2016 to 2041, they can be related, respectively, to the creation and dissection indicators. The habitat evaluation showed that 4.5% of the habitat was decreased in 2016, as compared to 1996. With the continuation of this trend, 6.5% of the habitat will fall in 2041, as compared to 2016. Receiver Operating Characteridtic (ROC) of the model also specified that the desirability model validity was equal to 0.9558, showing the excellent performance of logistic regression method. In general, this can be an important principle approach preventing from changes in the habitat of wild sheep to other land uses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Adiponectin hormone is involved in modulating metabolic processes such as glucose regulation and fatty acid catabolism. Several single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the transcription region of the gene and its sequences have been identified in different populations that are associated with the prevalence of various diseases. The aim of this study was to determine frequency of G276T polymorphism in breast cancer patients and its comparing in subjects without breast cancer. Material and Methods: 128 individuals with breast cancer and 128 healthy people were selected after the approval of a specialist physician. After blood collection and DNA extraction, all specimens were amplified with specific primers, then part of them was cut with Mva1269I enzyme and the genotypes of individuals were determined. The results were analyzed using IBM SPSS version 23 software by chi-square and logistic regression tests. Results: The two groups did not have a significant difference for mean age and body mass index. GT genotype was significantly different between the two groups and increased the risk of breast cancer by 1.86 folds in their carriers. None of the genotypes had any relationship with histopathological changes. Conclusion: The T mutant allele at G276T position of adiponectin had a decreasing effect on breast cancer, indicating that this result needs to be investigated in different populations with a larger sample size for confirmation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: This study aimed to investigate the effect of socioeconomic factors on outpatient services due to lack of access to outpatient services or failure to receive related services and to study the unmet needs of outpatient services in the country. Methods: This study is an analytical-descriptive study. The data were collected from micro-health services data plan developed by the Health Research Institute in collaboration with the Statistical Center of Iran in 2014. The data were analyzed using econometric models, logistic regression analysis, and Stata version 13. Results: A significant statistical relationship was found between the socioeconomic indicators and the causes of unmet needs for outpatient services. Based on the logistic regression model, there was a statistically significant relationship between income level, type of activity, educational level, type of insurance, marital and residential status (urban/ rural) and failure to receive outpatient services. The most significant relationship was observed between the economic and social features and the reasons of not fulfilling the need for outpatient services. Conclusion: The improvement of socioeconomic variables affect the use of outpatient services; therefore, the health system managers are required to pay greater attention to patients’ needs for health services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims: Use of computer and internet in our modern and digitalized society is an efficient tool to be up to date and fulfil the information gaps. The aim of this study was to evaluate the extent of computer and internet usage among dental students of Islamic Azad University, Tehran, in 2016. Materials and Methods: This descriptive study for evaluating access and usage of computer and internet by dental students was done using a researcher-made questionnaire on 401 dental students. Validity and reliability (Kappa: 0.82) of the questionnaire was confirmed. Statistical analysis was done by SPSS22 using descriptive and Logistic regression analyses. Results: More than 95% of the students had access to the computer and Internet. 45.6% of students reported their skills were in the basic level. The major use of computer among the students was internet but only 13.2% of students used Microsoft Office program. The students used the internet for dental subjects even monthly (34.9%) or weekly (29.4%). Only 9.7% of the students had participated in educational workshop for learning methods of research. The most limitation was internet velocity. Positive correlation was found among prospering ownership status (P<0.001), economic status (P=0.05), level of education semester (P=0.038) and the computer & internet usage (what's more in terms of access and also in terms of improve information and knowledge). Conclusion: Based on the results, a higher economic level, higher level of education, and property ownership made better access to the computer and Internet. However, computer skills should be more concerned in educational program. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: Breast cancer is the second leading cause of death from cancer among women. Monthly breast Self-Examination is an important screening strategy for early detection of breast cancer, but few women do this. The purpose of this study was to determine predictors of breast self-examination behavior in housewives based on the trans-theoretical model. Materials and Methods: This descriptive-analytic study was incorporated 450 housewives aged between 20 to 40 years old referring to health centers in Birjand. Sampling was through the Stratified Sampling method. Data collection was carried out through a researcher-made questionnaire including demographic information and dimensions of the meta-theory model and knowledge questions whose validity and reliability were confirmed. The data were analyzed by SPSS 19 software and analyzed by multivariate logistic regression and Pearson correlation coefficient test. Results: Mean age of the housewives was 30.75±5.24 years. As regarding the stages of transition in breast self-examination (BSE) behavior, 32.9% were in the pre-contemplation stage, 19.6% in contemplation, 23.3% in preparedness, 18.2% in action, and 6% in maintenance stages. Regression analysis showed that self-efficacy, knowledge, and education level were predictors of BSE. Conclusion: The findings of the study showed that self-efficacy and knowledge were predictors of BSE. Therefore, BSE behavior can be reinforced via educational programs that aim at increasing awareness and self-efficacy among women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Infection control has always been one of the most important issues in dentistry. Dentists are exposed to harmful microorganisms originating from the blood and saliva. In prosthodontics contaminated impression materials are in contact with the laboratory personnel. Therefore it is absolutely necessary to establish a method for disinfecting these materials. The aim of this study was to survey the effect of three different disinfectants on alginate disks using the immersion method. Materials & Methods: The disinfecting efficacy of 0.5% sodium hypochlorite, Deconex and Surfosept was evaluated in vitro by immersion method using 240 alginate disks contaminated with 3 microorganisms. Eighty alginate disks were prepared for each microorganism. The disks were immersed in the disinfecting solution. Cultures were prepared and colony counts were determined after 24 hours. Data were analyzed with chi-squared test and logistic regression using SPSS 20 (α = 0.05). Results: The antimicrobial activities of 0.5% sodium hypochlorite solution, Deconex and Surfosept were significant (p value < 0.001). Surfosept exhibited the greatest effect on Staphylococcus aureus (mean colony count of 20.05 ± 3.28) while Deconex exhibited the greatest effect on Pseudomonas aeruginosa (mean colony count of 31.15 ± 4.27) and Candida albicans (mean colony count of 7.55 ± 2.37). Conclusion: The results of this study showed that 0.5% sodium hypochlorite solution in all the three cases was the least effective. In the case of Candida albicans and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, the greatest effects were recorded with Deconex and for Staphylococcus aureus with Surfosept. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Diabetes mellitus is a predisposing factor for atherosclerosis. Stroke is a result of carotid artery atherosclerosis. Panoramic radiographs can help diagnose atherosclerosis. The current study assessed the prevalence of calcifications of carotid artery in diabetic and non-diabetic cases on panoramic radiographs. Materials & Methods: In this cross-sectional survey, the prevalence of carotid calcification in 40 diabetic and 80 non-diabetic patients was assessed in the Faculty of Dentistry, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences in 2014-15. All the patients underwent panoramic radiography and their demographic data, including age, gender, diabetic treatment received, duration of diabetes and fasting blood sugar were recorded. Then data of diabetic and non-diabetic cases were compared. Data were analyzed with SPSS 16, using chi-squared test, Fisher’s exact test and logistic regression (α = 0.05). Results: In radiographic assessment of diabetic patients, 13 cases had carotid artery calcification while only 7 cases of non-diabetics had carotid artery calcification (p value = 0.001). Variables of age, gender, type of diabetic treatment, duration of disease and fasting blood sugar did not exhibit any significant relationship with carotid artery calcification (p value > 0.05). Conclusion: Based on the results of the present study, in panoramic radiography as a non-invasive technique, arterial calcification was higher among diabetic patients in comparison to non-diabetic subjects but this significant prevalence was not related with demographic factors. Further studies with larger sample sizes are recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives Major beta-thalassemia is a hereditary hemoglobinopaty that is characterized by a genetic deficiency in the synthesis hemoglobin polypeptide chain. The aim is to determine endocrine disorders such as diabetes, hypothyroid, hypo-parathyroid, low growth hormone, hypogonadism and deranged glucose tolerance test and their relation with sexuality, age, ferritin measure and Desferal beginning age in Kurdistan province in 2013. Materials and Methods In this descriptive study, all patients with major thalassemia over 3 year of age with treatment record in Sanandaj Besat Hospital were enrolled. For all patients, tests of GTT, LH, FSH, FSH.T3, T4, TSH, PTH, Ferritin were conducted. The demographic information together with the beginning age of Desferal use were added to the questionnaire. Data were then analyzed by T-test, Kscore, linear regression and logistic regression in STATA-11 software. Results Out of 43 patients, 20 had hypogonadism, 17 had low growth hormone, 2 diabetes, 4 hypoparathyroid, 3 hypothyroid, and 4 deranged glucose tolerance test result. We also found a significant corrrelation between hypogonadism with age, ferritin measure and the beginning age of the Desferal use. The correlation between deranged glucose tolerance test with ferritin measure was significant. There were no significant correlations between other variables. Conclusions This study showed that the prevalence rate of endocrine disorder in patients with thalassemia being more than healthy people. Therefore, all patients with major beta thalassemia over 15 years of age should undergo considerable clinical and laboratory evaluation for endocrine gland. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Early diagnosis of prenatal illnesses and timely treatment of congenital anomalies has been the mainstay of the health system. In this study, our aim is to provide Roc curve multivariate modeling in detection of fetal abnormalities using associated markers in screening Down syndrome in the first and second periods of pregnancy. Materials and Methods: This is a descriptive-analytical study that uses information from two sets of data. In the first set, 152 individuals, who had the results of the first- trimester and second screening tests at risk and in the second group, 75 individuals with normal results. The studied variables included the serum markers in the first- trimester and the second- trimester screening, auxiliary variables (includes demographic information). Statistical analysis was performed by using ROC regression, incremental value analysis and Stata 12 software. Results: In evaluating the value of each diagnostic test in the presence of auxiliary variables using logistic regression and rock curves, the results generally showed that in screening the first- trimester of PAPP-A and in the screening the second-trimester,Inhibin-A can be used alone as a diagnostic test. Conclusion: Best diagnostic test in the first- trimester, respectively, PPAP-A, NT, FREE B-HCG and in the second- trimester of screening, respectively, Inhibin-A, HGG, UE3 and AFP were based on the area under the ROC curve. In addition, the most significant effect of the predictor variable on the outcome of the diagnostic test was family history. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Central Venous Catheters are often used as one of vascular routes in hemodialysis patients. They have some complications such as infections leading to long hospital stay, increased mortality, and cost of treatment. The most common form of infection associated with Central Venous Catheters is infection in the insertion site of catheter. Objective: This study aimed to determine central venous catheter infections in the patients undergoing hemodialysis in Razi Educational Remedial and Research Center. Materials and Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out on 170 hemodialysis patients admitted in Razi hospital for a year with the possibility of central venous catheter infection. To gather information, questionnaires including demographic information and information about the apparent criteria for infection were used. Data analysis was done using SPSS V.21 software and Chi-square and Logistic Regression statistical analysis. Results: 58.3%of the participants were male and 39.3% were female households. Mean and SD of the age of samples was 56.5±13. 8 years. The most common sign of infection was fever (77.4%). 98.8%of patients, had right internal jugular vein catheter and 45.2% a history of antibiotic consumption for catheter washing. Catheter infection rate was correlated with age (P=0.03), job (P=0.01), Spouse's job (P=0.03), education (P<0.001) and history of antibiotic consumption (P<0.0001). Age (P=0.007) and length of catheterization (P=0.069) were predictors of catheter infection, so that those younger than 40 years, had 3.8 times greater chance of infection, compared to those over the age of 60 years. Conclusion: Age and length of catheterization can be used as predictive markers of central venous catheter infection in hemodialysis patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Seizure is one of the complications of stroke that occurs early and late after stroke. If it leads to brain hypoxia, it aggrevates the patient's condition. Determination of its frequency and risk factors helps predict its occurance and respective precaution in stroke patients Objective: Determination of the frequency and risk factors of post-stroke seizure. Materials and Methods: This comparitive cross-sectional study was carried out on 1256 stroke patients' hospitalizedin neurology ward in Poursina hospital in Rasht. Data were collected using designed questionnaire from files of patiens or by telephone interview with patints, families or if nessecary by calling them to be visited in neurology clinic of Guilan University of Medical Sciences. Data were analyzed by independent-T and Qi square tests and logistic regression model in SPSS software version 21. p<0.05 was considered as the significance level. Results: Among the studied patients, 46 patients (3.29%) with mean age of 62.8±11 yearshad seizure. 69.6% and 30.4% of patients had early and late siezures, respectively. Cerebral embolism (p=0.032), history of stroke (p=0.008) and family history of stroke (p= 0.016) were determined as three predictors associated with post stroke seizure. Conclusion: The prevalence of post-stroke seizure is relatively low. Cerebral embolism, history of CVA and family history of CVA are as the predictors of post stroke seizure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The global prevalence of diabetes is expected to increase. Diabetes knowledge and self-care practice are the most important factors in diabetes management. This study aimed to investigate the diabetes knowledge and self-care practice in relation to glucose control in patients with type II diabetes mellitus. In the Shahryar city took place in 2016. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 450 patients with type II diabetes mellitus referring to the diabetes clinic of Shahriar city, Tehran, Iran, in 2016. The subjects were selected through simple random sampling methods. The data were collected using demographic characteristic form, Tobert-Glacow selfcare scale, and diabetic knowledge questionnaire. The inclusion criteria were a minimum of one year history of diabetes. Data analysis was performed in SPSS software using descriptive and analytic statistical tests (i.e., t-test, ANOVA, Pearson correlation test, and logistic regression analysis). Results: The mean age of the participants was 50±14.65, and 42.4% of the subjects were male. The data analysis revealed no significant difference between the males and females in terms of diabetes knowledge and self-care practice. The majority of the participants had moderate level of diabetes knowledge and self-care practice. Dietary self-care and blood glucose monitoring were the most important factors predicting diabetic control. Conclusion: As the findings of the study indicated, the provision of the diabetic patients with appropriate dietary and glucose monitoring training are of significant importance to control the disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims: First molar has an important role at individual’s dental health. Among the known risk factors, the experience of previous caries is of the best predictors for future caries. The aim of this study was to examine the association of primary teeth caries and other risk factors with the incidence of permanent teeth caries by considering the caries extent and severity. Materials and Methods: This case-control study was done on 150 students from second and third grade with 9 years old. Cases included children with at least one carious permanent molar. Caries-free students who were matched based on the gender and mother education was considered as control group. Examination was done on dental unit under the unit light with blunt explorer and mirror for visual assessment. DMFT, dmft and caries severity (D1-D3) were recorded based on WHO standards. Data were calculated using SPSS18, Correlation, Chi Square Analysis, Odds ratio and Logistic regression. Results: Linear correlation between dmft in primary teeth and DMFT in permanent molars was obtained with r:0.34 (P<0.001). Decay in permanent molars in students with active caries in primary molars was 3.3 times more probable than others. In regression model, the other risk factors such as cariogenic diet, mother`s education, brushing with toothpaste, flossing, using flouride, and regular dental visiting were not significant (P>0.05). Conclusion: Caries-free primary teeth predicts permanent teeth without decay with a high possibility. It could be helpful in caries risk assessments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Diabetes is a highly prevalent disease that causes damage to the vascular system. The aim of study was to predict risk factors associated with diabetes type II by using logistic regression. Methods: This is an analytical- cross sectional study. The data are related to the Mashhad study, which began in 2008 and are so far continues. The population studied is all individuals aged 35 to 65 years old living in Mashhad. Samples including 9386 individuals were selected with using stratified-cluster sampling. Demographic data, anthropometric indices, blood pressure, anxiety, depression, physical activity level, food patterns, and inflammatory, blood and biochemical factors were recorded. SPSS software was used to analyze the data. A significant level of 0.05 was considered. The logistic regression model was fitted to investigate the factors associated with type 2 diabetes. Results: The prevalence of type II diabetes was 13.9% (1387 cases). The results showed statistically significant association between age, anthropometric index, blood pressure, depression, dietary patterns and type 2 diabetes (P<0.05). Also, inflammatory, blood and biochemical factors were significant (P<0.05). Conclusion: Most of the factors associated with type 2 diabetes are lifestyle-controllable variables, so it is better that focus on general education and prevention to promote healthy lifestyles at the community level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Patient satisfaction is an important indicator of health care quality and it is important in health evaluation and planning. This study aimed to evaluate satisfaction of patients with type 2 diabetes with the care services provided in Endocrine and Metabolism Research Centre of Isfahan, Iran. Methodology: This descriptive study was performed on 230 type 2 diabetes patients, who were referred to Isfahan Endocrine and Metabolism Research Centre, Isfahan, Iran. The participants were chosen through convenience sampling method. Data was collected using a self-designed questionnaire consisting of four sections including satisfaction with the care provided by the physician, nurse, nutritionist, and laboratory. The questionnaire was rated using a five-point Likert scale. The data was analysed by using descriptive and inferential statistics and performing Chi-square, ANOVA, and logistic regression tests, using SPSS version 18. Results: The majority of the patients (87.9%) were satisfied with the care. The mean satisfaction scores from the care provided by physician, nurse, nutritionist, and laboratory were 25.8±2.54, 33.1±3.59, 26.3±4.3, and 24.3±2.57, respectively. A significant relationship was found between satisfaction and educational level (P=0.03) and age of the patients (P=0.004). Conclusion: The results of this study indicated that patients hold a positive attitude toward the services provided by diabetes team. However, satisfaction was low regarding diabetic foot care provided by the physician and follow-up of visits by nurses. Given that patients are the central part of a diabetes team, assessment of patient satisfaction with the performance of diabetes team could help health planners evaluate the performance of such centres. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Lower extremity conditions including peripheral artery disease, peripheral neuropathy, foot ulcer, and amputation are more common in diabetic patients, compared to non-diabetic cases. These conditions affect 30% of individuals, aged above 40 years. Foot ulcers are among the most common, serious, and costly complications associated with diabetes, causing a two- to four-fold increase in the risk of mortality; therefore, identification of risk factors can help prevent the irreparable side-effects. In the present study, we aimed to determine the foot condition in diabetic patients. Methodology: In this descriptive, cross-sectional study, foot condition was analyzed in 355 diabetic patients, referred to Razi Educational-Therapeutic Center in Rasht, Iran in 2013. The subjects were selected via convenience sampling and were evaluated by a trained nurse. Data were collected through interviews and a researcher-made questionnaire. For statistical analysis, descriptive and inferential statistics, Chi-square, and logistic regression analysis were calculated and performed, using SPSS version 16. P-value less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Based on the Chi-square test results, there was a significant relationship between foot ulcer and dry skin (without sweat) (P=0.01), fissure (P=0.004), impaired growth of toenails (P=0.02), blister (P=0.008), hammer toe (P=0.05), claw toe (P=0.001), Charcot arthropathy (P=0.02), superficial pain (induced by a pin), vibrational sense (induced by a tuning fork) (P=0.001), pulse of dorsalis pedis artery and right/left posterior tibia (P<0.001), ulcer scar (P=0.001), cause of hospitalization, and history of hospitalization due to foot problems (P=0.001). Based on the logistic regression analysis, variables associated with diabetic foot condition included blister, claw toe, and cause of hospitalization due to diabetes. Conclusion: Since blister, claw toe, and cause of hospitalization seem to be associated with foot ulcer, nurses can play an important role in the prevention and timely treatment of foot ulcers through identifying the risk factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objective: Delayed union and nonunion account for the most common complications of fractures of extremities in human. There are several factors influencing normal process of bone union among which nutrition is of extreme importance. The objective of this study was to assess the effect of nandrolone, calcium-D and vitamin C on the process of healing of fractures. Materials and Methods: 139 male patients aged 18-50 years old with tibial and fibular shaft fractures treated surgically, were entered to this study and randomly assigned to 4 groups. Patients in group 1 received nandrolone decanoate, patients in group 2 received calcium carbonate plus vitamin D3, patients in groups 3 received vitamin C and group 4 as the control group did not receive any treatment. The groups were compared based on radiographic and clinical criteria for fracture union. SPSS version 22 was used for statistical analysis. Anova was corporated for comparing groups in terms of their age along with Chi Square and Binary Logistic tests which were used for comparing union in groups. Results: In the first 3 months following the surgery, patients in nandrolone group developed significantly better union compared to the control group, whereas there was no significant difference in calcium-D and vitamin C groups. Conclusion: Nandrolone in the first 3 months after the surgery accelerates fracture union but calcium, vitamins D or C do not bring about any effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Today investing about the role of contributing emotional factors in etiology and treatment of functional gastrointestinal disorders was an interesting subject for many researches. The purpose of the present study was to assess the relationship between emotional intelligence and somatization in patients with functional gastrointestinal disorders. Materials and Methods: This study was descriptive and correlation. In this study 240 patients with functional gastrointestinal disorders (42 male and 198 female) were selected by the convenience sampling and participated in the study by filling baron emotional intelligence scale (1970) and Modified somatic Perception Questionnaire (MSPQ). Data was analyzed and used Pearson correlation and multiple regressions. Results: The results show that emotional intelligence had significant relationship in patients with functional gastrointestinal disorders. There was an association between increasing in scores of emotional intelligence and decreasing in scores of somatization. Also, adaptability and stress management among dimensions of emotional intelligence had significant and contrary relationship with somatization. The results of regression analysis show that emotional intelligence predicts 10 percentages of somatization scores in these patients. Conclusion: The results of the study highlight the protective role of emotional intelligence in physical and psychological health and provide useful information for medical and psychological treatment of patients with functional gastrointestinal disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: Conversational repair skills are essential for establishing mutually successful verbal communication. Cognitive and linguistic disorders can have negative effects on these skills. Children with hearing loss have special cognitive and linguistic issues. This study was performed to contribute to the paucity of data on conversational repair strategies used by hearing impaired children. Methods: The participants included 58 children with moderate hearing loss (38 boys and 20 girls) aged 6 to 7 from Ahvaz city. A cross-sectional study design was used. Frequency of using different types of repair strategies in ten repair situations was calculated. Scores of intelligence, memory, word finding, lexical richness, and mean length of sentences was obtained through cognitive-linguistic tests. Data was analyzed employing an independent t-test, Pearson correlation coefficient, and logistic regression. Results: A direct correlation was observed between clarification strategy and communicative social intelligence (p=0.045). A direct correlation was observed between applying different types of conversational repair strategies and linguistic abilities in children with moderate hearing loss (p<0.05). Conclusion: Children with moderate hearing loss (age: 6-7 years) use repetition more than any other strategy to repair conversation. One unit increase in word finding ability or in mean length of sentence predicts one unit increase in the degree of using repetition strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]