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The present study investigates the efficacy of preparation time in four speaking tasks of TOEFL iBT. As the current pre-task planning time offered by ETS is very short, 15 to 30 seconds, we intended to explore how the test-takers' speaking quality would change if the preparation time was added to the response time, giving the respondents a relatively longer online planning opportunity. To this aim, two groups of TOEFL iBT candidates were studied under pre-task and online planning conditions. Totally, 384 elicited speaking samples were first transcribed and then measured in terms of complexity, accuracy, and fluency (CAF). The results yielded by a series of One-way MANOVA revealed the online planning group significantly outperformed the pre-task planning group in terms of accuracy and fluency across all four speaking tasks. Although with less robustness, the online planners had significantly higher speech complexity represented by lexical diversity and left-embeddedness. The results obtained through this study may challenge the efficacy of the currently provided preparation time in TOEFL iBT speaking subsection.

The present study investigated the speaking module of TOEFL iBT with an emphasis on the dichotomy of independent and integrated tasks. The potential differences between the two speaking conditions were intended to be explored based on the oral performance elicited from a group of Iranian test takers. To collect the required data, a simulated version of TOEFL iBT characterized with all test rubrics as practiced by ETS was applied. A total number of 224 oral samples were transcribed and then quantified in terms of complexity and fluency by some internet-based programs including "Coh-Metrix 3" and "Syllable Counter." Moreover, the accuracy of each oral performance was manually computed for comparison purposes. The results revealed that the two speaking contexts were significantly different in terms of linguistic accuracy as well as two complexity measures representing latent semantic analysis and the mean number of modifiers per noun phrase. However, the two speech-eliciting contexts did not trigger any significant difference in the participants' oral language performance in terms of fluency and two other complexity measures, namely lexical diversity and left-embeddedness. The findings may have some implications for all TOEFL iBT stakeholders concerning the speaking subtest.

This study aims at investigating the influence of using flipped classroom model on Iranian EFL eleven graders' English achievements and their willingness to communicate. A pre-experimental design was used in this study. The participants were students in four classes of two high schools in Sanadaj, Iran. Two classes functioned as experimental and two others as control. The students in the experimental group (N=48) received instructional videos based on their English textbook. The videos were uploaded on a social network channel made by the researcher so the students could download them and watch them at their convenience time. Each individual participant in the experimental group then had the opportunity to interact with his classmates and teacher via the social network made by the students. This could help the students in the experimental group for the in-class discussion formed on the content of the videos and textbook exercises, Meanwhile, the students in the control group (N=47) received in-class traditional teaching focusing on lectures and explanations by the teacher. Despite these two different ways of presenting the contents of the English textbook, students in both experimental and control groups had the opportunity to take part in various learning activities in each classroom session including collaborative activities, completing the textbook exercises, giving comments and presenting new ideas, giving each other support and feedback and taking in-class quizzes. Statistical analysis of the post- test results revealed that the participants in the experimental group could outperform the participants in the control group. Furthermore, the findings of this study indicated that there was a significant difference in learners' willingness to communicate between experimental and control groups in favor of the experimental group.

This research has been designed to compare mothers upbringing methods based on adolescents intelligence groups; high-intelligence, low-intelligence and normal. To this purpose, 194 individuals were chosen from among male and female students of ages 14 and 15 from the city of Ghaenat from southern Khorasan province within the educational year of 2015, by the simple-random method in high-intelligence schools, by the census method in low-intelligence schools and by the multi-stage cluster sampling method in normal schools. The tools employed include the Bamrind questionnaire on upbringing methods. Pierson's codependence coefficient and multi-variant variance analysis have been used for data analysis. Results indicated that the difference is significant between intelligence groups regarding tyrannical and logical potency and no significant difference in upbringing methods based on freedom. There is positive and significant difference between mothers of children belonging to high and low-intelligence groups regarding authoritarian and logical potency, and mothers of children belonging to the normal and low-intelligence groups. There's no significant difference between other intelligence groups and upbringing methods.

Little is known about the effectiveness of couple relationship education through mHealth in Muslim populations. We compared an intervention group (n = 127) of newlywed women who received online education with a non-intervention group (n = 135), in Iran. The curriculum was focused on raising awareness about communication and conflict resolution in marital life. Educational messages were sent twice a week over two years. The two groups did not differ in the divorce rate and marital quality ratings. The findings may suggest that marriage education programs need to be tailored to address deep cultural issues such as sacrifice and forgiveness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Cancer is a significant public health issue in Iran, and its incidence has been on the rise in recent years. The objective of this study is to predict the incidence of total cancer in Iran using a Bayesian age-period-cohort (APC) model. Methods: Utilizing age-period-cohort modeling, this study assessed the multifaceted effects of age, period, and cohort on cancer incidence during the period spanning 2005 to 2017. Key metrics, including the net drift (representing the overall annual percentage change), local drift (indicating annual percentage changes within specific age groups), and longitudinal age curves (depicting expected age-specific rates over time), were computed. Moreover, the evaluation encompassed an analysis of period and cohort relative risks. To project the future age-standardized incidence rates of cancers from 2018 to 2027, Bayesian age-period-cohort analysis integrated nested Laplace approximations. Result: The age-standardized incidence rate and the absolute number of cancer cases in Iran showed an upward trend. The net drift was 1.79% (95% confidence interval, CI: 0.87% to 2.72%) for males and 3.31% (95% CI: 2.49% to 4.14%) for females. Local drifts remained consistently above zero for all age groups from 2005 to 2017, except for the under-5 age group in both males and females, and the 45–49 and 50–54 age groups in females. After accounting for period deviations, the risk of cancer incidence exhibited an exponential increase with age for both sexes. Based on the Bayesian age-period-cohort analysis, it is estimated that there will be around 210,701 new cancer cases in 2027. Moreover, the Age-Standardized Rate (ASR) for cancer is anticipated to reach 240.32 per 100,000 by 2027. The forecasts indicate a rise in cancer incidence rates across all age groups for both males and females. Conclusion: This study underscores the urgency of implementing targeted preventive strategies aligned with demographic shifts and lifestyle factors. Emphasizing the role of robust cancer registries, it advocates for continuous monitoring to inform evidence-based interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The elderly population faces reduced levels of health and performance, which necessitates the use of rehabilitation assistive technologies to maximize functional independence in daily activities. This study aimed to explain the experiences of the elderly regarding the use of rehabilitation assistive technologies based on the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology. Methods: The present study was a qualitative study of the type of content analysis that was conducted in the city of Hamadan in 2022. Participants included 20 elderly aged 60 years or above who were selected as a purposive sample and subjected to individual semi-structured in-depth interviews. Data were analyzed using directed qualitative content analysis based on Hsieh and Shannon's approach. Data were coded using MAXQDA software (MAXQDA Analytics Pro 2020, VERBI GmbH Berlin). Results: According to the results, 260 primary codes were extracted, and they were classified into five predetermined categories of the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology, including performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence, facilitating conditions, and behavioral intention, as well as two new categories of technology anxiety and perceived need for technology. After extracting 260 primary codes based on the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology, 75 sub-categories were identified in 14 main categories. Conclusion: The themes obtained from the study indicate the necessity of providing the required conditions to maintain the complete independence and health of the elderly and strengthen their morale. The results can be helpful in the development of support strategies for family members, healthcare providers, and policymakers. IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATION: Assistive rehabilitation technologies include low-tech assistive technologies. The use of assistive rehabilitation technologies is a potential solution to improve balance, quality of life, and increase activity and functional independence in the elderly. Since peers play a very important role as technology advocates in the intention to accept and use assistive technologies, the expression of the experiences and views of the elderly can encourage and support the use of assistive rehabilitation technologies by other elderly. This study found that the use of assistive rehabilitation technologies by the elderly is a relatively complex issue with various personal, social, economic, cultural and physical aspects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study reports the process of development and validation of a rating scale in the Iranian EFL academic writing assessment context. To achieve this goal, the study was conducted in three distinct phases. Early in the study, the researcher interviewed a number of raters in different universities. Next, a questionnaire was developed based on the results of the interview along with the related literature. Later, the questionnaire was sent to thirty experienced raters from ten major state universities in Iran. Results of the country-wide survey in this phase showed that there was no objective scale in use by the raters in the context. Therefore, in the second development phase of the study, fifteen of the raters who participated in the first phase were asked to verbalize their thoughts when each rating five essays. At the end of this phase, a first draft of the scale was developed. Finally, in the last validation phase of the study, ten raters were asked to each rate a body of twenty essays using the newly developed scale. Next, eight of the raters participated in a follow-up retrospective interview. The analysis of the raters' performance using FACETS showed high profile of reliability and validity for the new scale. In addition, while the qualitative findings of the interviews counted some problems with the structure of the scale, on the whole, the findings showed that the introduction of the scale was well-received by the raters. The pedagogical implications of the study will be discussed. In addition, the study calls for further validation of the scale in the context.

The analysis of some geological features and structures can be used to determine Quaternary developments. Analyzing the types of landslides, their density, and scale is the key to identify the evolution of landforms. Based on this, the current research was carried out with the aim of spatial analysis of landslides that occurred in different lithologies of Mo'alem-Kelayeh basin, a part of eastern Alamut basinin of Qazvin province, between the longitudes 50°26'00" to 50°31'20" and the latitude 36°22'00" to 36°30'00", based on topographical, geological conditions, vegetation, the condition of waterways, and the proximity of different rocks in the area. According to the results, the Karaj, Rute, Shamshek and Neogene and destructive sediments are the most erodible formations in the studied area, which are the most important factors involved in the occurrence of mass movements on a micro and macro scale under the Mo'alem- Kelayeh basin. The nonresistant lithology is more extensive in the geographical levels downstream of the rivers. In such areas, in addition to the loosening of the lithology in wide sections, the material and energy flowing in the river also increases, if due to the lower slope of the slopes, the effect of the river on the movements of the slopes becomes more limited. In the terrestrial levels close to the ridge line, matter and energy are less and lithology is more resistant; But due to the greater slope of the slopes and the involvement of physical weathering in the porosity of the rocks, the effect of the river on the occurrence of surface slope movements increases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Biomaterials and surgical techniques for reconstructive tympanic membrane surgery are under development. Objectives: The objective of this study is to analyze the functional and surgical outcomes of a novel fascia with cartilage reinforcement technique for anterior tympanic membrane perforation in tympanoplasty. Methods: Records of 198 patients with anterior tympanic membrane perforation who underwent tympanoplasty between August 2018 and March 2021 were prospectively reviewed. Patients with dry anterior quadrant perforations of the tympanic membrane were included and underwent tympanoplasty using two methods: Type 1 tympanoplasty with temporalis fascia only, and tympanoplasty with fascia and cartilage reinforcement. Postoperative functional and surgical outcomes were analyzed. Results: Comparing the pre-operative and post-operative air conduction levels and air-bone gaps showed significant improvement in both groups (P < 0.001). Additionally, no significant difference was observed between air-bone gap closure (P = 0.316) and increase in air conduction levels (P = 0.222) according to graft type. Conclusions: Both temporalis muscle fascia and temporalis muscle fascia with cartilage reinforcement revealed satisfactory functional and surgical outcomes. Furthermore, the novel combined cartilage-fascia technique had a comparable graft take rate and hearing results in anterior perforations, with no significant change in tympanic membrane vibratory properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The current study aims to assess cardiovascular risk factors (CVRFs) among diabetic versus nondiabetic nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) patients. NAFLD is the most common hepatic disorder worldwide which is directly associated with diverse CVRFs such as type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and metabolic syndrome (MS). Materials and Methods: The current cross-sectional population-based study has been conducted on 1031 NAFLD patients. After excluding 340 prediabetes patients, the NAFLD patients were divided into T2DM and normal blood glucose (NBG). Then, CVRFs were compared between the two groups. Results: Out of 691 NAFLD cases included in the study, 337 (48.8%) patients had T2DM. In the T2DM and NBG groups, the body mass index (BMI) was 31.2 ± 4.6 and 29.9 ± 4.3 kg/m2, respectively (P = 0.001). The waist circumference was 102.2 ± 10.2 and 97.6 ± 10.6 cm, respectively (P < 0.001). The systolic blood pressure was 123.3 ± 15.6 and 119.6 ± 13.6 mmHg, respectively (P = 0.043). The triglyceride levels were 191.9 ± 104.7 and 176.5 ± 89.6 mg/dL, respectively (P = 0.042). Generally, these factors were significantly higher among the diabetic patients. Besides, cardiovascular disease (CVD), hypertension, and MS were statistically more prevalent in NAFLD patients with T2DM (P < 0.001) than nondiabetic NAFLD patients. In multiple logistic regression models, the odds ratio of CVD, hypertension, and MS was 2.18, 2.12, and 6.63 for patients with T2DM compared with NBG, respectively. Adjustment was made for age, sex, BMI, smoking, and physical activity. Conclusion: CVRFs were higher in NAFLD patients with T2DM than NAFLD patients with NBG. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research is an attempt to find out if grouping learners, through using a placement test will significantly help students become more successful in learning English. 320 non-English major undergraduates studying at the University of Isfahan participated in this research. The final scores of 121 freshmen who attended their general English courses in homogenised classes were compared with those of 199 freshmen who did not undergo any placement procedure. The analysis of data suggested that grouping the learners and dividing them into different ability groups had a significant impact on the participants' academic success, in their course of general English. In addition, the results suggested that ability grouping provides sufficient ground for methodological decisions and hence sequencing of teaching materials and procedures.

Previous studies on the effect of planning on language production have revealed that planning does have a positive effect on language performance in terms of fluency, complexity, and accuracy. The present study was an attempt to investigate the effects of pre-task, on-line, and both pre-task and on-line planning on fluency, accuracy, and complexity of Iranian EFL learners' written production. Forty five Iranian learners of English performed a narrative task based on a series of six pictures. The narratives, then, were coded to measure the fluency, accuracy, and complexity of the participants' production. The results of one-way ANOVA revealed that on-line planning (OLP) and pre-task plus on-line planning (PTP+OLP) had no effect on the fluency, complexity, and accuracy of the Iranian EFL learners' written narratives. However, pre-task planning (PTP) had a significant effect on one variable of fluency (i.e. syllables per minute) but it had no effect on the complexity and accuracy of the written narratives. Findings have pedagogical implications for language teachers and syllabus designers in EFL context.

The present study aimed to explore how tolerant of ambiguity Iranian EFL learners at university level are and if gender plays a role in this regard. To this end, upon filling in the revised SLTAS scale of ambiguity tolerance 194 male and female Iranian teacher trainees were assigned to three ambiguity tolerance groups; namely, high, moderate and low. Cluster analysis of the SLTAS scores indicated that Iranian EFL learners were mostly moderate as far as tolerance of ambiguity was concerned. Examining the gender differences through an independent sample t-test manifested that female participants were less tolerant of ambiguity than their male peers. Also, the differences between the expected and observed number of participants categorized in the three AT groups were non-significant undermining the role of gender as a moderator variable in assigning participants to AT groups and further approving of SLTAS validity. Implications for classroom practice are presented in the light of findings. The results are helpful in syllabus design and teaching methodology.

Along with a more humanitarian movement in language testing, accountability to contextual variables in the design and development of any assessment enterprise is emphasized. However, when it comes to writing assessment, it is found that multiplicity of rating scales developed to fit diverse contexts is mainly headed by well-known native testing agencies. In fact, it seems that EFL/ESL assessment contexts are receptively influenced by the symbolic authority of native assessment circles. Hence, investigating the actualities of rating practice in EFL/ESL contexts would provide a realistic view of the way assessment is conceptualized and practiced. To investigate the issue, present study launched a wide-scale survey in the Iranian EFL writing assessment context. Results of a questionnaire and subsequent interviews with Iranian EFL composition raters revealed that rating scale in its common sense does not exist. In fact, raters relied on their own internalized criteria developed through their long years of practice. Therefore, native speaker legitimacy in the design and development of scales for the EFL context is challenged and the local agency in the design and development of rating scales is emphasized.

Purpose: The current study aims to investigate the effect of a comprehensive warm-up program on functional movement (FM) patterns and landing errors of young male wrestlers. Methods: For this purpose, 50 wrestlers from Karaj City, Iran were selected as available to participate in the research and then randomly divided into two... [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

INTRODUCTION: Emergency medical service (EMS) systems faced numerous challenges and issues as the frontline in dealing with the global Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. This systematic review aimed to prepare a guideline for managing future pandemics by exploring the challenges emergency medical technicians face in providing pre-hospital care during the COVID-19 pandemic. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This study followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. PubMed, Web of Science (WOS), Scopus, ProQuest, Embase, Science Direct, and Google Scholar were the primary databases used to search for literature. The keywords used in this review were COVID-19, "Prehospital Emergency", and Iran, and their equivalents, obtained from MeSH, expert opinion, or related articles. From the 787 records identified through database searching in the early stage, after investigating, analysing the characteristics, and content analysis, 11 articles were included in the final stage of this review study to answer the study questions. RESULTS: Based on the searches, 11 articles were finally evaluated. Challenges extracted from the analysis of studies were classified into 5 main themes, 12 subthemes, and 50 codes. The main themes include Ambiguity in operational protocols, Resource Shortage, Cultural challenges, Burnout, and Physical and Mental health challenges. CONCLUSIONS: The outbreak of COVID-19 has presented challenges for pre-hospital emergency services (PHES) in Iran, necessitating adaptive strategies and coordinated efforts by authorities to prepare EMS for similar crises in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Fatigue leads to an increase in joint restoration errors because of nervous system fatigue and a lack of understanding of joint position and imbalance that may be due to the changes in walking patterns and excessive pressure on bones and soft tissue structures, which may ultimately lead to injuries in climbers. Accordingly, this study investigates the effect of fatigue on the restoration error of the knee and ankle joint angles. Methods: This was a quasi-experimental study. A total of 35 mountaineers aged 20-35 years were selected by the non-random sampling method. This research was conducted on September 10, 2022, at the Tochal Climbing Rout in Velenjak, Tehran City, Iran. The tests were taken before and after a mountaineering program for a distance of 8 km at an average speed. The position sense of knee and ankle joints was evaluated using the Mobimed, which is a type of electrogoniometer. The normal distribution of the data was statistically analyzed using the Shapiro-Wilk test, and the data were analyzed using the paired t-test. The SPSS software, version 24, was used for all statistical operations (P≤0.05). Results: The findings showed that fatigue causes errors and significant changes in the restoration of knee and ankle joint angles and 30° (P=0.003), 45° (P=0.004), 60° (P=0.007), dorsiflexion of 10° (P=0.009) and plantar flexion of 20° (P=0.001), the restoration and sense of position is disturbed, which shows that fatigue is effective in understanding the state of the joints. Discussion: Fatigue increases the error of restoration of the knee and ankle joint angles, which can reduce the optimal performance of the muscles around the joints by reducing the person's understanding of the angles and the sense of the joint position. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mehr Housing now deals with a serious quality of residence, which is rooted in its planning system. The housing planning approach in Iran-the custodial approach-that emerged in the frame of a comprehensive plan influenced by the modernism movement in Europe is the reason for this crisis due to its specific attitude towards the space and atomist worldview. On the contrary, the landscape approach with its "holistic" attitude considers the improvement of residence quality depending on a system of space that guarantees the quality improvement in the frame of dual perceptual-physical criteria. This study aims to compare those components that affect the quality of residence within two "planning" and "landscape" approaches and asks what kind of relationship exists between components affecting the quality of residence within two landscape and planning approaches at different levels in Iran. The purpose of this study is to achieve a strategy to improve the quality of residence in Mehr Housing through a comparative analysis of the theoretical foundations of "planning approach" as the custodial approach of Mehr Housing and the landscape approach. The research method of this study is qualitative based on the theoretical analysis of two landscape and planning approaches. The comparison between components affecting the quality of residence in these two approaches was made through logical reasoning. The assessment of data obtained from other studies was done by comparing them with previous components and comparison between them. Due to its sectoral and partial view on some components of quality in the residence environment, the "planning approach" could not guarantee the quality of the environment despite the importance of these components. This is the incident that has responded to the different needs of occupants by improving the quality of residence within the landscape approach in the frame of "spatial arrangement" and creating a "whole" that is simultaneously perceptual and functional. Hence, it is possible to revive the potential social capital in the Mehr Housing Project by "modifying" the conditions of the environment with an idealistic attitude-adopting a landscape approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Scorpion stings pose a significant public health concern in Iran, resulting in approximately 45,000-50,000 cases and 19 deaths annually. The Khuzestan and Hormozgan provinces have the highest reported incidence rates, with an estimated 36,000 cases each year. This study focused on modeling the time series data of scorpion stings, specifically in Shoushtar City, from 2017 to 2022. Our objective was to investigate the presence of seasonality and long-term trends in the incidence of scorpion stings by utilizing advanced analytical techniques, such as the Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA) model. We applied the seasonal ARIMA model to fit a univariate time series of scorpion sting incidence. This study revealed a significant seasonal trend and an overall increase and decrease in scorpion sting cases during the study period. The best-fitting model for the available data was a seasonal ARIMA model in the form of ARIMA(0,0,1)(1,1,1)12. This model can forecast the frequency of scorpion sting cases in Southwestern Iran over the next two years. As a result, time series analysis can provide valuable insights into the patterns and trends of scorpion sting incidents, allowing for better planning and allocation of healthcare resources. By understanding the seasonal variations, proactive measures can be implemented to address the growing issue of scorpion stings in Iran effectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background & Objective: Thyroid-related adverse pregnancy outcomes can be analyzed by Anti-thyroid peroxidase antibody (Anti-TPO Ab). However, whether women with anti-thyroid peroxidase antibody (Anti- TPO Ab) positivity have a higher risk of poor pregnancy outcomes is debatable. The aim of the present study was to compare the pregnancy outcomes in pregnant women with positive and negative TPO-Ab. Materials & Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on pregnant women with positive anti-TPO Ab (n= 108) and negative anti-TPO Ab (n=340) referring to Imam Khomeini Hospital and Ahvaz clinics from January 2020 to December 2020. The pregnancy outcomes, including gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), preeclampsia, miscarriage, preterm birth, placental abruption, IUFD, IUGR, and TSH level, were compared between the two groups by SPSS software using student t-test and Chi-square test. Results: The mean TSH level was significantly different in women with negative TPO-Ab than those with positive TPO-Ab (Mean (SD): 2.25(1.47) vs. 4.82(9.38), P<0.0001). In addition, 81 (75.00%) women in the positive anti-TPO group and 104 (30.58%) in the negative anti-TPO group had high TSH (P<0.001). The frequency of GDM in positive anti-TPO Ab pregnant women was significantly higher than that in the negative anti-TPO Ab group (46.29% vs. 34.11%, P=0.029). The results also indicated an enhancement in the rate of miscarriage (15.74% vs. 4.11%, P<0.001) and preterm parturition (13.88% vs. 3.52%, P<0.001) in positive anti-TPO Ab women. Conclusion: Presence of positive anti-TPO Ab was significantly associated with preterm delivery, abortion and GDM in pregnancy. Treatment with Levothyroxine can reduce the risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes in women who are positive for TPOAb. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inadequate health literacy decreases physical activity. This study aimed to develop and examine psychometrics of physical activity health literacy in Iranian older adults. This methodological work was conducted in two phases. Phase 1 consisted of extensive studies review and qualitative study to extract and design the items. The psychometrics were measured in Phase 2 included content, faceconstruct validities, reliability, and stability. The collected data were analyzed in SPSS (version 25.0) and AMOS (version 24.0). The results of the exploratory factor analysis showed four factors— information evaluation, reading skill, perception, and decision making—and used information that explained 70.08% of the variance. The model's fitness was supported by confirmatory factor analysis. Internal consistency based on Cronbach's alpha was.89 with composite reliability >0.85. Stability was confirmed through the test–retest method and intraclass correlation coefficient (.89–1). Psychometrics of physical activity health literacy in Iranian older adults supported validity and reliability of the tool. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inadequate physical activity is a risk factor of diseases and early death in older adults. Promotion of an active lifestyle is a key strategy to help perseveration of health and quality of life along with aging. The present study is an attempt to determine the indicators of regular physical activities in older adults using the extended social cognitive theory. The study was carried out as a cross-sectional study on 610 older adults in age range 60–75 years selected from 10 retired guild unions in Kermanshah City. Data gathering was done using a demographics form, physical activity scale for the older adults, and an extended social cognitive theory. Data analyses were done using a structural equation modeling, Chi square test, independent-t, ANOVA, and Pearson Correlation Coefficient in SPSS (v.25) and AMOS (v.24). The mean age of the participants was 65.93 years (SD = 5.02). Results showed that 18% of changes in intention and 62% changes in physical activity behavior of the participants were predicted by the extended social cognitive theory. Outcome expectations (β = 0.26), self-efficacy in overcoming impediments (β = 0.21), and outcome expectancies (β = 0.10) were the predictors of the intention of doing physical activity. In addition, intention (β = 0.74) and health literacy of physical activity (β = 0.13) were the predictors of physical activity behavior. Goodness of fit indices of the model also supported goodness of fit. The extended social cognitive theory with the constructs namely health literacy and intention is a reliable model to predict physical activity behavior in older adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

NOWADAYS, THE NEED FOR AN INDIGENOUS MODEL OF CITIZENSHIP CULTURE IN THE WORLD'S METROPOLISES IS INEVITABLE AND MANDATORY. THE PURPOSE OF THIS ARTICLE IS TO STUDY AND PRIORITIZE THE COMPONENTS OF CITIZENSHIP CULTURE IN THE METROPOLISES OF THE ISLAMIC REPUBLIC OF IRAN. THE RESEARCH METHOD IS LIBRARY AND FIELD. DATA COLLECTION TOOLS INCLUDED IN-DEPTH LIBRARY STUDIES AND EXPERT QUESTIONNAIRES. THE MODEL INCLUDES THREE LEGAL, FUNCTIONAL AND VALUE DIMENSIONS OF CITIZENSHIP CULTURE AND ALSO INCLUDES 13 MAIN COMPONENTS. DUE TO THE HIERARCHICAL STRUCTURE OF THE CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK OF THE RESEARCH MODEL, THE METHOD OF HIERARCHICAL ANALYSIS PROCESS BASED ON THE AGGREGATION OF EXPERT OPINIONS AND BASED ON (GRAYNUMBER THEORY) TO EXAMINE AND PRIORITIZE EACH OF THE DIMENSIONS AND COMPONENTS OF THE CITIZENSHIP CULTURE MODEL OF THE ISLAMIC REPUBLIC OF IRAN. THEREFORE, IN GENERAL, IT CAN BE SAID THAT THE PRESENT STUDY IS A MIXED TYPE THAT EMPHASIZES QUALITATIVE-QUANTITATIVE DATA. HENCE, THE THEORETICAL-PHILOSOPHICAL PARADIGM ON WHICH THIS RESEARCH IS BASED IS A KIND OF INTERPRETIVE-POSITIVIST MIX. THE RESULTS OBTAINED FROM THIS ARTICLE INDICATE THAT AMONG THE DIMENSIONS OF CITIZENSHIP CULTURE, THE VALUE DIMENSION OF CITIZENSHIP CULTURE HAS MORE PRIORITY THAN OTHER DIMENSIONS ACCORDING TO EXPERTS. AT THE SAME TIME, THE LEGAL AND DUTY ASPECTS HAVE ALSO BEEN OF GREAT IMPORTANCE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article aims to deepen knowledge concerning the continuity of the Safavid system of central bureaucracy following the fall of the Safavids through the presentation of the administrative history of a high-ranking office, majlis-nawis, and a type of royal decree, raqam. By introducing their functions and unique interrelation between them during the seventeenth century, and their development and transformation in the post-Safavid period, the paper sheds light on the continuous, albeit changed, presence of this administrative position and document form in the eighteenth century. Furthermore, it will be shown that the raqam became the most dominant form of decree in the chancelleries of post-Safavid dynasties, whereas the majlis-nawis lost its relevance in the second half of the eighteenth century. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aimed to identify the relationship between nursing students' daily spiritual experiences and spiritual health, as well as investigate the role of demographic variables. The cross-sectional study was conducted on 401 nursing students from Medical Sciences Universities in Tehran province in 2021. Data were collected through a demographic questionnaire, the Daily Spiritual Experiences Scale, and the Spiritual Health Questionnaire. The findings revealed a significant relationship between students' daily spiritual experiences and spiritual health (p <.001). Additionally, significant associations were found between daily spiritual experiences and demographic variables such as sex, marital status, place of residence, adherence to religious rituals, economic status, smoking, and alcohol use (p <.05). These results highlight the influence of demographic factors on nursing students' daily spiritual experiences and spiritual health, emphasising the interconnection between the two. Consequently, it is recommended to prioritise spiritual health as a crucial aspect of holistic spiritual care provision to patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Excessive concentration of greenhouse gases in atmosphere emitted from human activities has been considerably changing the world's climate, especially in the last 50 years. Agriculture, as humans' food production system, has undoubtedly interrelated with climate change (CC). During current decades, the impacts of CC on agriculture have been properly investigated; however, the impacts of agriculture on CC have received lower attention. This may be due to the scarcity of long-term spatiotemporal climatic and agricultural data to analyze coupling trends and interactions. Benefiting from a comprehensive database and using structural equation modeling, this study seeks to investigate the contribution of agriculture to CC in Iran for more than half a century. For this, two indicators were developed to evaluate structural characteristics of agricultural expansion (AEI) and CC at the province level. Then, the effect of AEI on CC was investigated using the structural equation modeling technique. The results showed that AEI has not had a positive contribution to raising the long-term average surface temperature. Precisely, the provinces with a higher level of surface temperature have had a lower AEI, indicating that other sectors outweigh agriculture in exacerbating long-term CC in the country. Nevertheless, Iran still needs to improve and sustain its agricultural practices and technologies. The main conclusion of this study is that if the government and policymakers aspire to manage CC, they should have a more holistic and systematic view. In other words, not only do they need to consider all drivers of CC, but they also have to pay close attention to the network of relationships among the drivers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to verify the main factors influencing turnover intention in the Iran hospitality industry. The objective of this study is to construct a fuzzy AHP and fuzzy TOPSIS model to evaluate the dimensions of the hotel employee turnover intention model. The performance evaluation for employee turnover intention includes work itself, supervision, coworkers relationship, salary and benefit, career opportunities, job stress, perceived risk, and job insecurity. These dimensions generate a final evaluation for ranking priority among the employee turnover intention of the proposed model. The importance of dimensions is evaluated by 20 experts, and decision-making is processed through the fuzzy concept and fuzzy environment. From the critical fuzzy AHP and fuzzy TOPSIS analysis results, the study shows that the most important dimensions of employee turnover intention in the hotel industry model are salary and benefits. Moreover, the results indicate that the least important dimensions are the Co-workers Relationship, Supervision, and Career Opportunities. The second group dimensions that impact employee turnover in the context of the COVID-19 epidemic are work itself, job stress perceived risk, and job insecurity. In addition, this study's results show that three-star hotels have the highest value of turnover intention; the second is the Four and Five-star hotels, and the third is the below three-star hotels. The results of the study will help businesses in the field of hospitality have a more comprehensive view of human resource management activities. Especially, this study provides implications for hotel managers in understanding employee behavior and their turnover intention during the context of the COVID-19 epidemic based on the eight proposed dimensions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Vaccination is a primary prevention approach to preventing disease by disconnecting the transmission chain. The current study utilized a BASNEF model framework to identify factors influencing subsequent doses of COVID-19 vaccination among older adults. Methods: This cross-sectional study was performed in the west of Iran in May 2022. The participants were selected via multi-stage sampling. Finally, 1120 participants contributed to the present study. The questionnaire consisted of three sections: a) Socio-demographic characteristics, b) cognitive impairments tests, and c) Questionnaire about the subsequent dose of COVID-19 vaccine uptake based on the BASNEF model. Data were analyzed using the software IBM AMOS-20 and SPSS-23 via one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and independent sample T-tests were used, too. The significance level of statistical tests was regarded as less than 0.05. Results: The presented results of analyzing 50% of the variance of vaccination intention as the dependent variable (R square = 0.497) and 10% of the behavior variance as the dependent variable (R square = 0.104) can be explained based on the BASNEF model. The enabling factors (β = 0.636, p < 0.001) and the intention (β = 0.322, p < 0.001) were important factors for subsequent doses of COVID-19 vaccine uptake in older adults. Conclusion: So, planning and implementing promotional intervention programs for older people (over 65; 80), females, illiterate, widows and divorced, good economic status, and urban areas is essential. It seems that enabling factors such as free vaccinations, vaccination inaccessible places such as public social security agencies, social supports such as involvement of the government and physicians, and improving information by the medium or knowledge-sharing experience, which can be further used to enhance the acceptance of subsequent doses of COVID-19 uptake in older adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Food production in controlled cultivation areas plays a crucial role in increasing productivity and offsetting supply shortages. Product yields, water consumption, and energy use are the main parameters determining the performance of food production in a greenhouse. Smart technology is an effective solution to improve these parameters. This study aimed to identify the components, challenges, and requirements for the development of smart agriculture in greenhouses. Our case study focused on Tehran province, which encompasses a significant portion of the total greenhouses in Iran. The statistical population consisted of 20 subject-matter experts with research or executive experience in greenhouse automation, selected purposefully. Questionnaires and semi-structured interviews were used in this study to collect data. First, we identified the variables affecting the development of smart agriculture in greenhouses by using a literature review and semi-structured interviews with experts, Then, the experts were asked to evaluate the cross-influence of the identified variables through pairwise comparison. Finally, data analysis was done using MICMAC software. The findings indicate that the identified requirements and challenges have had a significant influence on the lack of smart agriculture in greenhouses. Through network analysis of influence and dependence relationships, it was found that economic requirements and challenges, technical and infrastructural requirements and challenges, legal and regulatory requirements, and institutional requirements were the most influential variables in the development of smart agriculture in Tehran province. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and objective: The COVID-19 pandemic impacted every single aspect of life. In addition to being a public health emergency, the COVID-19 outbreak impacted the mental health of individuals, especially pregnant women. This study aimed to examine the mental health status of pregnant women and also the effect of sociodemographic factors on their mental health status during COVID-19 in healthcare centers of Iran. Methods: This cross-sectional, analytical-descriptive study was conducted among pregnant women referring to healthcare centers in Shoushtar, Iran, in 2021. Multistage cluster sampling was used to select participants. Data were collected using the General Health Questionnaire-28 (GHQ-28). Data were analyzed using SPSS software version 22. The Pearson correlation coefficient was used to examine the association between quantitative variables. A generalized linear model (GLM) was applied to estimate the effect of independent variables on the dependent variable (mental health). Results: A total of 197 participants with a mean ± SD age of 27.85 ± 6.37 years took part in this study. The total mean score of mental health was estimated at 17.47±8.20. The highest mean ± SD score was, respectively, related to social dysfunction (6.63 ± 2.86), anxiety and insomnia (5.28 ± 3.53), and somatic symptoms (4.17 ± 3.27). Mental health disorder was significantly correlated with participants' age (R =.223, P =.00), number of pregnancy (gravida) (R =.272, P =.00), number of births (para) (R = 0.272, P =.00), and number of abortions (R =.172, P =.015). About 80% of pregnant women did not reveal impaired mental health conditions or psychological distress, while 19.3% showed scores that indicate probable mental health conditions. Conclusion: Social dysfunction was the most common mental health problem among pregnant women. It is necessary to pay more attention to the mental health status of pregnant women during a pandemic. Interventions such as practical strategies to promote social support and improve pregnant women's mental health during pregnancy are highly important. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the most important effects of climatic changes is increasing temperatures and expanding water deficit stress in tropical and subtropical regions. As the fourth most important cereal crop, barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) is crucial for food and feed security, as well as for a sustainable agricultural system. The present study investigates 56 promising barley genotypes, along with four local varieties (Norooz, Oxin, Golchin, and Negin) in four locations to identify high-yielding and adapted genotypes in the warm climate of Iran. Genotypes were tested in an alpha lattice design with six blocks, which were repeated three times. Traits measured were the number of days to heading and maturity, plant height, thousand kernels weight, and grain yield. A combined analysis of variance showed the significant effects of genotypes (G), environments (E), and their interaction (GEI) on all measured traits. Application of the additive main-effect and multiplicative interaction (AMMI) model to the grain yield data showed that GEI was divided into three significant components (IPCAs), and each accounted for 50.93%, 30.60%, and 18.47%, respectively. Two selection indices [Smith–Hazel (SH) and multiple trait selection index (MTSI)] identified G18, G24, G29, and G57 as desirable genotypes at the four test locations. Using several BLUP-based indices, such as the harmonic mean of genotypic values (HMGV), the relative performance of genotypic values (RPGV), and the harmonic mean of the relative performance of genotypic values (HMRPGV), genotypes G6, G11, G22, G24, G29, G38, G52, and G57 were identified as superior genotypes. The application of GGE analysis identified G6, G24, G29, G52, and G57 as the high-yielding and most stable genotypes. Considering all statistical models, genotypes G24, G29, and G57 can be used, as they are well-adapted to the test locations in warm regions of Iran. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: This study aims to correct undercounts in cancer data before initiating a population-based cancer registry program, employing an innovative Bayesian methodology. Background: Underestimation is a widespread issue in cancer registries within developing countries. Methods: This secondary study utilized cancer registry data. We employed the Bayesian approach to correct undercounting in cancer data from 2005 to 2010, using the ratio of pathology to population-based data in the Golestan province as the initial value. Results: The results of this study showed that the lowest percentage of undercounting belonged to Khorasan Razavi province with an average of 21% and the highest percentage belonged to Sistan and Baluchestan province with an average of 38%. The average age-standardized incidence rate (ASR) for all provinces of the country except Golestan province was equal to 105.72 (Confidence interval (CI) 95% 105.35-106.09) per 100,000 and after Bayesian correction was 137.17 (CI 95% 136.74-137.60) per 100,000. In 2010 the amount of ASR before Bayesian correction was 100.28 (CI 95% 124.39-127.09) per 100,000 for women and 136.49 (CI 95% 171.20-174.38) per 100,000 for men. Also, after implementing the Bayesian correction, ASR increased to 125.74 per 100,000 for women and 172.79 per 100,000 for men. Conclusion: The study demonstrates the effectiveness of the Bayesian approach in correcting undercounting in cancer registries. By utilizing the Bayesian method, the average ASR after Bayesian correction with a 29.74 percent change was 137.17 per 100,000. These corrected estimates provide more accurate information on cancer burden and can contribute to improved public health programs and policy evaluation. Furthermore, this research emphasizes the suitability of the Bayesian method for addressing underestimation in cancer registries. It also underscores its pivotal role in shaping the trajectory of future investigations in this field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: A proper diet plan is one of the necessary conditions for maintaining the children's health. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of consumption of pasteurized cow's milk fortified with albumin protein in primary-school children, in Yasuj, Iran. Materials and Methods: In this double-blind randomized clinical trial with 12 weeks of duration, 60 children aged 7-13 years, mild to moderate underweight (-1≥ weight-for-age z-score ≥-3), were randomly assigned to control and albumin groups. The albumin group and the control group received 200 cc of milk with 10 g of albumin powder and 200 cc of milk with 10 g of cornstarch powder, respectively. At the beginning and end of the study, food intake and anthropometric indices were measured. Results: After 12 weeks of intervention, none of the anthropometric indices (weight, weight-for-age z-score, body mass index (BMI), BMI-for-age z-score, and waist circumference) showed significant changes as compared to baseline in the control group, but weight-for-age z-score and BMI-for-age z-score showed significant increase as compared to baseline in the albumin group (before: -2.25 ± 0.40, after: -1.98 ± 0.35, P = 0.001 and before: -3.48 ± 0.86, after: -3.06 ± 0.71, P = 0.009, respectively). The comparison of the mean changes between the two groups showed significant difference regarding weight-for-age z-score (control group: -1.70 ± 0.31 in comparison with albumin group: -1.98 ± 0.35, P = 0.002), BMI (control group: 12.08 ± 1.96 in comparison with albumin group: 12.13 ± 1.49, P = 0.03), and BMI-for-age z-score (control group: -3.11 ± 0.91 in comparison with albumin group: -3.06 ± 0.71, P = 0.02). Conclusion: The consumption of albumin powder with milk can improve weight-for-age z-score and BMI-for-age z-score indices in children with mild-to-moderate underweight. Larger controlled interventional studies with longer duration are recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was done to evaluate the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) in patients with COVID-19 in health care centers (Imam Reza and Golestan hospitals), Tehran, capital of Iran. By designing a matched case-control study, 200 fecal samples were collected for each of the COVID-19 patients and healthy individuals. Nasopharyngeal/oropharyngeal swab samples were collected from all participants for the diagnosis of COVID-19. RNA extraction was performed, and then real time reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (rRT-PCR) assay was applied to detect viral RNA. Considering the lung complications, 25%> lung complications was detected in 49 patients, 25–49% in 42 patients, and 50%≤ in 109 patients. Fecal samples were examined using different parasitological techniques. After nested-PCR, sequencing was applied to identify Cryptosporidium spp. and microsporidia spp. A relatively lower prevalence of IPIs was detected among control group (7.5%), than in COVID-19 patients (13%), though not significant P = 0.13 . The most prevalent parasite among patients was Blastocystis sp. (6%). Also, 13.76% of IPIs were detected in inpatients with more than 50% lung complication. As well, a remarkably significant difference in IPIs was observed among diarrheic COVID-19 patients, in comparison with nondiarrheic patients P < 0.00001 . Moreover, the isolated sequences in the present study belonged to C. parvum subtype IIa and Enterocytozoon bieneusi genotypes D and Peru 8. In conclusion, more epidemiological and clinical research studies are needed to better understand the status and interaction of IPI in COVID-19 in Iran and other countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Through addressing particular ideologies regarding language, meaning, level of proficiency and target writer and reader, rating criteria define and control the "what" and "how" of the assessment process. But a point which has been neglected or intentionally concealed due to concerns of practicality and the legitimacy of the native authority in setting assessment guidelines in EFL writing assessment contexts is the appropriateness of the scale. To raise attention to the current vague rating situation and consequently remedy the state, present study followed two lines of argument. First, drawing on the socio-cognitive framework of Weir (2005) for validating writing assessment, it is discussed that the important characteristic of scoring validity necessitates an appropriate choice of rating rubrics. Second, through posing a critical argument, deficiencies of the present practice of adopting rating scales are revealed and consequently it is discussed how assessment circles in native countries by setting rating standards control and dominate the whole process of writing assessment. To add more flesh to the argument, the ESL Composition Profile of Jacobs, et al. (1981) for its popularity in the Iranian EFL academic writing assessment is analyzed. A preliminary examination of the Profile shows that quite different underlying assumptions are involved. The study ends with a call to add a more local taste to the rating scales. To a large extent, developing a local rating scale that gives agency to the intricacies of Iranian EFL context in designing and developing the scoring criteria in writing assessment would be promising.

INTRODUCTION The prevalence of hookah smoking in Iran, especially among adolescents, is increasing. Accordingly, the present study was conducted to determine the effect of interventions to prevent and reduce hookah smoking using a systematic review. METHODS In this study, all articles published up to April 2021 in both Persian and English in the field of interventions to prevent and reduce hookah smoking were reviewed. These studies were conducted based on the databases of the country's publications (Magiran). According to the Cochrane search strategy, Iranian Medical Articles Database (Iran Medex) and Scientific Database (SID), Database in Scopus, PubMed, ISI Embase, and Science Direct databases, were searched. Two researchers independently selected studies based on inclusion criteria. The quality of the studies was assessed using EPHPP. RESULTS Out of 4170 studies, 21 of those consistent with the research criteria were selected and carefully examined in the present study. The results showed that out of 20 studies that were reviewed, 19 studies showed that after completing the educational interventions, the prevalence of hookah smoking in the intervention group decreased compared to the control group. Also, the present study's findings showed that educational interventions with content about the side effects of hookah smoking comparing the pathogenicity of hookah and smoking and showing its addictive intensity could improve structures such as a positive attitude to hookah smoking. CONCLUSIONS Considering the effect of various interventions and the use of patterns and theories of health education can be very helpful in changing and modifying some factors affecting the tendency to hookah smoking. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the most characteristic and resilient elements of state documents promulgated by the chancelleries of medieval and early modern Turkic Islamic empires is the toghrā , or calligraphic signature of rulers. In the administrative history of Iran, the chessboard toghrā constitutes a short and lesser-known variant. This royal emblem appeared during the Safavid period as the result of several administrative reforms. In this paper, I outline the development of the toghrā in medieval Iran on the basis of surviving documents and fragments and then offer a detailed portrait of the birth and brief life of the chessboard toghrā. Furthermore, the conspicuous similarity between this form and the toghrā s of Mughal emperors precipitates a comparison and close analysis of their different elements and characteristics. Drawing on both published and unpublished royal decrees, this article explores the possible dimension of interrelation and provides insights into their similarities and differences in use and content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Enuresis is bedwetting that occurs during sleep in children over five years old. If left untreated, it can lead to social and psychological problems for children and their parents. The role of copeptin in patients with primary monosymptomatic nocturnal enuresis (PMNE) has been reported in several studies. Due to the favorable structural properties of copeptin and the reflection of arginine vasopressin (AVP) concentration, it can be used as an alternative marker for AVP secretion. Objectives: This study aims to compare the levels of copeptin in healthy and enuresis children aged 5 - 15 years. Methods: This case-control study was performed on 42 children with primary monosymptomatic enuresis and 42 children without enuresis who were referred to the clinic of Taleghani hospital in Gorgan in 2020. Copeptin levels were measured by the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method. Results: Out of 84 patients, an equal proportion of girls (21 patients) and boys (21 patients) participated in both the case and control groups. The age of the children was 8.05 ± 2.46 years, and there was no statistically significant difference between the two groups (P = 0.16). The mean level of copeptin in the case and control groups were 6.7 ± 4.27 and 6.87 ± 8.52 pg/mL, respectively, significantly lower in the case group (P = 0.03). There was a statistically significant difference in the level of copeptin between the boys in the two groups (P = 0.03). Although the mean level of copeptin in the girls in the patient group was lower than that in the control group, this difference was not statistically significant (P = 0.35). Conclusions: In this study, the mean level of copeptin in PMNE was significantly lower than that in the control group, which suggests it may be considered as a probable biomarker for the prediction of response to treatment with desmopressin, but further study is required to confirm this hypothesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Lakeh Siah iron oxide-apatite deposit occurs within the Cambrian succession of volcanic tuffs and rhyolitic rocks intercalated with dolomites, dolomitic limestones, and evaporites. Magnetite is the dominant ore mineral, accompanied by apatite, amphibole, diopside, calcite, and andradite garnet. Apatite, allanite, and titanite are the main rare earth element (REE)-bearing minerals. Concentrations of minor elements in magnetite and apatite are consistent with those in the magmatic Kiruna-type IOA deposits. The magmatic stage in the Lakeh Siah deposit is recorded in magnetite-rutile symplectites pseudomorphozing pseudobrookite and replaced by titanite-rutile ± ilmenite ± magnetite, titanite + rutile, and finally REE-rich titanite. The pseudobrookite with 28–42 mol% FeTi2O5 was either a primary magmatic mineral or a product of hemoilmenite breakdown at temperatures higher than 810 °C. The titanite-rutile-ilmenite-magnetite symplectites originated between 475 and 700 °C and oxygen fugacities 1.6–1.9 logfO2 units below the hematite-magnetite buffer. Fluorotremolite associated with diopside and fluorapatite crystallized at temperatures between 710 and 780 °C, and high oxygen fugacities, up to 6 logfO2 units above NNO buffer. The oxidizing conditions are reflected in increased ferric iron contents (Fe3+/Fe2+ molar ratios > 1.7) in tremolite, contrasting with the negligible Fe3+ in superimposed actinolite. Hydrothermal alteration of the primary magmatic, REE-bearing fluorapatite resulted in the reprecipitation of REE-depleted fluorapatite, monazite-(Ce), and arsenian xenotime. Epidote-ferriepidote and allanite-ferriallanite with up to 26 wt% REE (0.98 apfu) were also replaced by an unidentified Y–Ce–Nd–concentrating Ca,Fe,REE-hydrosilicate, containing up to 39 wt% Y + REE. Low yttrium contents in the neoformed monazite (< 0.02 apfu) indicate crystallization temperatures below 200 °C, but the monazite-xenotime thermometer based on Gd partitioning returns up to 700 °C. Breakdown textures in magnetite and apatite, increased sulfate contents in monazite (up to 1.5 wt% SO3), and the presence of anhydrite-, calcite-, hematite-, and halite-bearing aqueous inclusions with variable phase ratios in the neoformed apatite reveal metasomatism induced by the interaction with heterogeneous, chloride-sulfate-carbonate brines capable of transporting rare earth elements. The brines were probably mobilized from evaporite-bearing sedimentary strata during the Cambrian volcanism and possibly also during superimposed intrusive episodes coincidental with Silurian and Triassic extension-related magmatism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Students and graduates in the field of health management will be future managers of the health field. Improving the skills of health system managers as one of the main pillars of health service organizations is essential to meet the health needs of the community. Therefore, this study aimed to identify and prioritize the key skills required by healthcare management graduates as future managers of the health system. Methods. This study was performed in three steps using the method of content analysis, Delphi, and factor analysis. In the first step, a semi-structured and interactive in-depth interview was used to determine the skills required for managerial jobs in the health system, and the data were analyzed based on the content analysis method. The sample size was 14 health experts. In the second step, a Delphi study was designed to build consensus on skills. The participants scored 44 skills extracted from the interviews through a threepoint Likert scale from disagree to agree (from 1 to 3), then the skills were divided into several component groups through factor analysis. Results. In this study, 44 key skills needed by managers and graduated students in the field of health service management were identified in 10 components. Conclusion. Costs and resources allocated to the training of health service management graduated students should be based on the need of the labor market and workspace. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Daily spiritual experiences and spiritual care competence have positive health effects on patients and form an integral part of the nursing profession. This study was conducted to determine the relationship between daily spiritual experiences and the dimensions of spiritual care competence in nursing students. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 401 nursing students in their last year of the program. The participants were selected from nursing schools in Tehran Province, Iran, in the academic year 2019--2020. The required data were extracted using a demographic information questionnaire, the Daily Spiritual Experiences Scale (DSES), and the Spiritual Care Competence Scale (SCCS). The collected data were analyzed in SPSS software at the significance level of 0.05. Results: The mean (SD) of daily spiritual experiences and total spiritual care competence was 67.15 (16.33) and 101.77 (16.26), respectively. The personal support and patient counseling dimensions had the highest mean (SD) [22.10) 4.80)]. Among all these dimensions of spiritual care competence, only professionalization and improvement of the quality of spiritual care were predictors of the students' daily spiritual experiences (p < 0.05). Conclusions: The professionalization dimension of spiritual care competence was identified as a predictor of daily spiritual experience in nursing students. Therefore, the researchers recommend the highlighting of this dimension in nursing programs to promote the students' spiritual care competence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Enuresis is one of the most common diseases in children. Although there are several factors involved in the occurrence of this diseases, the root cause of it has remained undetermined. Objectives: Identifying various factors responsible for enuresis may enormously contribute to solving this problem. This study, therefore, aimed to determine the level of vitamin B12 and folic acid in children with enuresis in Gorgan in 1400. Methods: In this case-control study, 43 children with primary enuresis and 99 children without enuresis, as the control group, referring to Taleghani Hospital in 1400 were included. Folic acid and vitamin B12 levels in two groups were measured and analyzed using statistical techniques. Results: Out of all participants, 23 (53.5%) in the case group and 53 (53%) in the control group were male. The mean age of children in the case and control groups were 7.60 ± 3.02 and 8.93 ± 3.15, respectively, and the two groups were not significantly different in terms of gender and age. Vitamin B12 and folic acid levels in the case group were significantly lower than those in the control group (P-value = 0.001). There was a significant difference between the case and control groups regarding the mean levels of vitamin B12 and folic acid levels based on sex and gender. Conclusions: In sum, it was found that children with enuresis suffered from deficiency of vitamin B12 and folic acid to some extent, which may have been a factor responsible for delaying the maturation of the central nervous system and, consequently, inducing enuresis in children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Multiple genome-wide and candidate-gene association studies have been conducted to search for common risk variants of breast cancer. Recent large meta-analyses and consolidating evidence have highlighted the role of the caspase-8 gene in breast cancer pathogenesis. Therefore, this study aimed to identify common variations and haplotypes associated with risk and overall survival of breast cancer with respect to underlying susceptibility variants in the CASP8 gene region in a group of the Iranian population. Methods: In a case-control study with a total of 1008 samples (455 cases and 553 controls), genotyping of 12 candidate polymorphisms, consisting of rs3834129, rs2037815, rs7608692, rs12990906, rs3769821, rs6435074, rs3754934, rs3817578, rs10931936, rs1045485, rs1045487, and rs13113, were performed using PCR-based methods, including ARMS-PCR, AS-PCR, RFLP-PCR, HRM-PCR, and TaqMan-PCR. Results: rs3834129, rs3754934, rs12990906, and rs10931936 were associated with the risk and overall survival of breast cancer. Several haplotypes were also identified an associated with a higher risk of breast cancer, including a three-SNP haplotype rs3817578-rs10931936-rs1045485 [p < 0.001, OR = 1.78(1.32–2.41)]. rs3754934-C allele showed an association with a lower risk of death in all patients [p = 0.022; HR = 0.46(0.23–0.89)] and in the hormone-receptor-positive group [p = 0.038; HR = 0.37(0.14–0.95)], as well as CC genotype in the hormone-receptor-positive group [p = 0.002; HR = 0.09(0.02–0.43)]. Conclusion: The present study suggests a diagnostic and prognostic role of CASP8 gene variations in breast cancer. The risky haplotypes are likely to have one or more underlying breast cancer susceptibility alleles. Understanding the mode of action of these alleles will aid individual-level risk prediction. It also may help identify at-risk patients to provide them with better surveillance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Genital warts are a highly contagious sexually transmitted disease. It is caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), which is transmitted through sexual contact. HPV is the most important cause of cervical cancer. This study aimed to evaluate the health belief model (HBM) constructs in adopting HPV preventive behavior in women referred to comprehensive health centers in Southwestern Iran. Materials and methods: This descriptive-analytical study was performed on 1000 women referring to health centers in Ahvaz during 2019-2020 who were selected via a two-stage stratified random sampling technique. Data were collected using a valid and reliable researcher-made questionnaire based on the HBM. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, t-test, ANOVA, Pearson correlation coefficient, and regression analysis in SPSS v.18, at a significance level lower than 0.05. Results: Total scale reliability of the tool was very good (α=0.828), as the Intra-cluster correlation coefficient (ICC) was to be 0.86. The mean of preventive behavior using an ANOVA test was significantly different at different levels of education (P <0.05). The mean and standard deviation of knowledge about HPV and preventive behavior was moderate (11.45±3.4). Pearson correlation coefficient showed a significant direct relationship between preventive behavior with awareness, perceived sensitivity, and self-efficacy and inversely related to perceived barriers. Perceived sensitivity (0.01) and self-efficacy (<0.001) were identified as the final predictors of behavior in regression analysis. Conclusion: As the results showed, designing programs to prevent HPV, considering the perceived role of perceived sensitivity and self-efficacy, increases the likelihood of effective interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Hospitalization and the possibility of surgery are known as the main causes of anxiety in children, and anxiety is a natural physiological process in individuals that allows them to adapt and deal with a diversity of adverse conditions. The purpose of this research aimed to compare 2 methods of distraction including puzzle-solving and music on anxiety before pediatric surgery. Materials and Methods: This study is clinical trial research. First, 90 children 6 to 10 years old were randomly assigned to the intervention and control groups. In group A, the visual puzzlesolving items were presented, in group B, music with related pictures via a tablet was presented in the waiting room for surgery, and in group C, only standard care for each patient was presented. Anxiety before surgery was measured with a Children's Fear Scale questionnaire before moving the patient to the operating room, then 30 minutes before surgery in the pre-surgery waiting room, and the third stage immediately after transfer to the operating room before induction of anesthesia. Data were analyzed by one-way analysis of variance, chi-square test, and Tukey test using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences software version 21.0. Results: The results of this research showed that the levels of anxiety significantly improved in the intervention groups compared to the control group after the intervention (P < .001). Conclusion: Music and puzzle-solving as complementary therapy can improve the levels of anxiety in children before surgery. Therefore, this technique can be recommended to be used along with modern medicine in children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Nowadays, the use of androgenic-anabolic steroids (AAS) by competitive and non-competitive bodybuilders and its side effects have become a major public health problem. Many studies have focused on determining the role and severity of various factors in AAS use, but the existence of collinearity between the factors leads to the non-significance of important factors. The study aimed to determine factors affecting the androgenic-anabolic steroids use in Iranian bodybuilders. Method: This descriptive-analytical study was performed on 280 male bodybuilders (142 non-competitive and 138 competitive bodybuilders) in Hamadan, west of Iran, in 2016. The participations were recruited a multistage sampling method. A self-administrated questionnaire was used, which included parts such as intrapersonal, interpersonal, and behavioral factors affecting on AAS use. To solve the consequences of collinearity was used ridge logistic regression model (RLRM) in R.3.5.1 software. Results: The mean age of bodybuilders was 25.21 years (SD = 6.31). The prevalence rate of AAS use among non-competitive and competitive bodybuilders was 27.5% and 34.1%, respectively. Factors such as age, time of starting bodybuilding, attitude, physical self-concept, behavioral intention, coach and friend use AAS, alcohol consumption, and supplement use were associated with AAS use among non-competitive and competitive bodybuilders. Conclusion: The results of the study indicated that a combination of intrapersonal, interpersonal and behavioral factors was effective on the androgenic-anabolic steroids use among Iranian bodybuilders. Adequate education about the side effects of AAS and improvement of individual skills seem to be helpful in reducing AAS use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background & Objectives: Numerous studies have shown that the risk of death is higher in elderly patients with COVID-19. In Iran, due to the growth of the elderly population and the prevalence of underlying diseases, it is necessary to pay attention to this age group of patients. In this study, clinical, radiological, PCR, and laboratory data of elderly patients with COVID-19 were collected and analyzed in two groups of recovered and dead patients. Materials & Methods: This is a retrospective study of 196 consecutive elderly patients with COVID-19 hospitalized from March 21, 2020, to April 3, 2020, and their follow-up until April 23, 2021. Clinical characteristics, laboratory results, PCR, chest CT scans and Hounsfield Unit data were collected and analyzed in two groups of recovered and dead patients. Obtained Data were analyzed using SPSSv22.0 and MATLAB-R2017 software. Results: The results showed that there were no specific symptoms to distinguish the death group from the recovery group. Significant differences were observed between the two groups for red blood cell counts, hemoglobin, MCHC and MCV levels, bilirubin, aminotransferase levels, CRP, white blood cells, serum BNU, creatinine and PT coagulation index. The concentrations of VBG (HCO3) and VBG (PCO2) in the deceased patients suggest compensated respiratory alkalosis. CT sensitivity is 100% for patients in advanced and severe stages of the disease. Conclusion: The patients in the death group had more underlying diseases than the recovered group. COVID-19 patients are more likely to die when they have both diabetes and cardiovascular disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Trisomy 13 (T13) and sex chromosome aneuploidies (SCA) are the vital causes of congenital malformations. This study was performed to identify the T13 and SCA with screening tests in the first trimester of pregnancy. Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, first-trimester combined screening was conducted on 2100 pregnant women referred to Narges Genetics Laboratory, Ahvaz, Iran. Evaluating the first trimester screening tests, including nuchal translucency (NT), crown--rump length (CRL) and pregnancy-associated plasma protein-A (PAPP- A), and free beta of human chorionic gonadotropin (fβhCG) was performed. For a definitive diagnosis of T13 and SCA syndrome, fetal karyotype was evaluated. Results: The average NT and CRL in high-risk group for T13 were 5.96 mm and 61.7 mm respectively and in high- risk groups for SCA were 3.7 mm and 75.9 mm, respectively. Significant correlation was observed among NT, CRL and T13, SCA (P<0.05). The average serum fβhCG and PAAP-A levels in high-risk group for T13 were 0.42 and 0.31, respectively. Significant correlation was observed between decrease fβhCG, PAPP-A and T13 levels and increase fβhCG levels and SCA levels (P<0.05). No Significant correlation was observed between PAPP-A levels and SCA levels (P>0.05). Conclusion: Using special software and karyotype testing, the prenatal screening tests based on the maternal age and gestational age in the first trimester of pregnancy may determine the major risk of fetal chromosomal abnormalities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increasing the physical activity and sport participation rates of people with disabilities has been one of the most important targets of sport policy both at national and international levels. The purpose of the current investigation was to assess participation in sports or physical activities among Iranian veterans with extremity musculoskeletal disorders. Data were obtained from health needs assessment studies conducted among Iranian veterans with musculoskeletal disorders in a 12-year period between 2005 and 2017. The collected Information on sport or physical activity participation was analyzed using Χ2 test, independent t-test, partial correlation coefficient and binary logistic regression (p < 0.05). Studies on 2644 veterans with extremity musculoskeletal disorders indicated that 37.6% (n = 994) of them participated in at least one type of sport or physical activity. The highest percentage of sport participation was 65% in bilateral upper limb amputees. Results from logistic regression analysis indicated that the chance of sport participation decreased with ageing while it increased with "Disability Percentage" assigned by the medical commission of the Veterans and Martyrs Affairs Foundation which is responsible for determining the disability rate of the veterans in Iran. It was observed that veterans with a higher "Disability Percentage" had a higher duration and frequency of sport or physical activity participation. The most popular sports among the subjects were track and field (20.1%, n = 192) and swimming (15.6%, n = 149). Generally, more than a third of the subjects participated in sports or physical activities in total and sport or physical activity participation was greater in the high-level lower extremity amputation group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]