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Although there are several recent studies regarding the role that online social networks (SNs) bloggers can play in the success or failure of today's businesses, the ways by which they can actively influence their follower's purchase behavior still needs further investigation. Thus, this study aims to examine how bloggers' interactive practices (BIPs) have a positive effect on their followers' intentions to purchase the products promoted by them by the mediating roles of bloggers' credibility and followers' para-social interactions. This study drew on three well-formulated theories (i.e. social cognitive theory, theory of reasoned action, and social learning theory) to design its conceptual framework. To this end, this study surveyed 548 female followers of 12 female bloggers on Instagram, operating in Iran. This research has used the PLS-based structural equations modeling to evaluate the validity of its measurement and structural models. The results of this research show that BIPs improve followers' attitudes toward bloggers' credibility in two dimensions of "expertise" and "reliability". Followers' attitudes toward bloggers' credibility play an important role in reinforcing their para-social interactions with bloggers. Followers' para-social interactions play a role in fortifying their intentions to purchase the products promoted by bloggers. The most significant empirical contribution of this study is that it explains the interactive practices taken by bloggers into account strengthen the purchase demands of their followers. Therefore, bloggers due to their ability to influence people's purchase intentions are a challenge for today's businesses, which must be transformed from a potential threat to an actual opportunity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The January 16, 2024, missile and drone strike by Iran against alleged sanctuaries of Jaish al-Adl inside Pakistan’s province of Baluchistan provoked a short crisis between Islamabad and Tehran, culminating in retaliation by Pakistan on January 18, 2024. The lack of close coordination on their shared frontier, amidst severe issues of drug trafficking from Afghanistan, terrorism in Baluchistan, and Iranian concerns about infiltration, undermined a mutual understanding between these two countries. Pakistan was entirely surprised, never having been attacked by Iran before. Despite the strike during the election campaign to determine Pakistan’s next governing party and executive, Islamabad resisted retaliation until it failed to elicit a conciliatory explanation from Tehran. Iran’s attack was most likely the result of a hardline foreign policy initiative decided and implemented by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as part of its escalating conflict with Israel and the defence of the Houthis in Yemen. Following Pakistan’s measured and proportionate response, Tehran and Islamabad, encouraged by China, the US, Russia, and Türkiye, diplomatically defused the tension, and bilateral relations normalised. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Background and Aim: Viral infections are associated with augmented morbidity and mortality risk in Hemodialysis (HD) patients. Materials and Methods: In this investigation, we have scrutinized the presence of hepatitis B virus (HBV), and occult hepatitis B virus infection (OBI), in HD patients. In this cross-sectional study, the blood samples and data from 200 hemodialysis patients referred to a dialysis center in Kerman, from January 2022 to March 2023 were collected. Anti-HBV antibodies and HBs Ag were analyzed in the specimens using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). All samples were tested for OBI by using a real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay. Results: Of the 200 patients considered, 4 (2%) for HBs Ag were positive. Real-time PCR demonstrated OBI in 2 (1%) patients. The majority presence of viral infection was in the age group 50≥ years, self-employment, low education level, and diabetic patients. Furthermore, our study revealed that a higher percentage of HD patients were associated with low educational levels, self-employment, urban residence, and comorbidities such as diabetes and hypertension. Conclusion: In this study, HBV antigen prevalence was 2%, and OBI prevalence was 1%, indicating a low HBV incidence in HD patients. Our study underscores the importance of lifestyle improvement, increased awareness among lower-educated and lower-skilled individuals, and rigorous disinfection practices in managing risk factors for hemodialysis patients, including HBV and OBI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Anti-tuberculosis drug-induced hepatotoxicity can result from genetic polymorphism of the isoniazid (INH) metabolizing enzyme. This study aimed to determine the effect of genetic polymorphism of N-acetyltransferase 2 (NAT2) and cytochrome P450 2E1 (CYP2E1) genes on serum isoniazid level and drug-induced hepatotoxicity. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 120 patients (with and without hepatotoxicity) with pulmonary tuberculosis from June 2019 to April 2022 in Tehran (Iran). High-performance liquid chromatography was used to measure the serum concentration of INH and acetylisoniazid (AcINH). NAT2 and CYP2E1 genotypes were determined using polymerase chain reaction and restriction fragment length polymorphism methods. Data were analyzed using SPSS software (version 22.0) with independent two-sample t test, Chi square test, or Fisher's exact test. P<0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: A total of 40 patients showed hepatotoxicity. The risk of anti-tuberculosis drug-induced hepatotoxicity was significantly higher in patients who are slow acetylator (SA) phenotype than in rapid or intermediate acetylator (P<0.001). NAT2*4/*4 genotypes were not found in patients with hepatotoxicity. The frequency of NAT2*5 and NAT2*6 haplotypes and serum INH concentration was significantly higher in patients with hepatotoxicity than in those without (P=0.003, P<0.001, and P<0.001, respectively). NAT2*4 haplotype was correlated with protection against hepatotoxicity. A combination of SA and CYP2E1 C1/C1 genotype was significantly associated with hepatotoxicity (P<0.001). Conclusion: Hepatotoxicity in Iranian patients with tuberculosis was confirmed due to the presence of NAT2 SA polymorphism. Determining NAT2 and CYP2E1 genotypes and/or INH concentration can be a valuable tool to identify patients susceptible to hepatotoxicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water scarcity is a major obstacle to forage crop production in arid and semi-arid regions. In order to improve food security in these areas, it is imperative to employ suitable irrigation management techniques and identify drought-tolerant cultivars. A 2-year field experiment (2019–2020) was conducted in a semi-arid region of Iran to assess the impact of different irrigation methods and water deficit stress on forage sorghum cultivars' yield, quality, and irrigation water-use efficiency (IWUE). The experiment involved two irrigation methods, i.e., drip (DRIP) and furrow (FURW), and three irrigation regimes supplied 100% (I100), 75% (I75), and 50% (I50) of the soil moisture deficit. In addition, two forage sorghum cultivars (hybrid Speedfeed and open-pollinated cultivar Pegah) were evaluated. This study revealed that the highest dry matter yield (27.24 Mg ha−1) was obtained under I100 × DRIP, whereas the maximum relative feed value (98.63%) was achieved under I50 × FURW. Using DRIP resulted in higher forage yield and IWUE compared to FURW, and the superiority of DRIP over FURW increased with the severity of the water deficit. The principal component analysis indicated that, as drought stress severity increased across all irrigation methods and cultivars, forage yield decreased, while quality increased. Plant height and leaf-to-stem ratio were found to be suitable indicators for comparing forage yield and quality, respectively, and they showed a negative correlation between the quality and quantity of forage. DRIP improved forage quality under I100 and I75, while FURW exhibited a better feed value under the I50 regime. Altogether, in order to achieve the best possible forage yield and quality while minimizing water usage, it is recommended to grow the Pegah cultivar and compensate for 75% of soil moisture deficiency using drip irrigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Bed bugs (Cimex lectularius) are blood-sucking insects that bite humans usually at night and cause nuisance, psychological and social problems. These insects are considered a health hazard in densely populated places such as prisons. The aim of this study was to evaluate the knowledge, attitude and practice of inmates, soldiers, and prison staff regarding bed bugs in Mazandaran prisons. Methods: This is a descriptive-analytical study in which 450 inmates and 210 staff (105 personnel and 105 soldiers) from prisons of Mazandaran Province were included in the study. Data on knowledge, attitude, and practice of the participants regarding bed bugs were collected using a structured questionnaire. To determine the relative content validity coefficient, the questionnaire was assessed by 10 specialists in terms of difficulty, inappropriateness, and ambiguity of the phrases. The reliability of the questionnaire was measured using Cronbach's Alpha and then the data were analyzed using SPSS software version 20. Results: The maximum mean scores of knowledges, attitude, and practice between the three target groups were 16.42%, 44.07% and 71.21% respectively. Prison staff had the highest knowledge and practice, and inmates showed the highest attitude regarding bed bugs. There was no significant difference between the knowledge and attitude of inmates, prison staff and soldiers (P> 0.05) but there was a significant difference in their practice (P< 0.05). Conclusion: Results of this study confirmed that all three groups of people in the prisons need appropriate education regarding all aspects of bed bug including its control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: This study was done to find out the impact of a pre-operative physical therapy plan with inspiratory muscle training on functional capacity, kinesiophobia, and post-operative intensive care unit (ICU) stay in subjects with coronary artery disease (CAD) candidates for coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). Methods: Fifty subjects who fulfilled the inclusion criteria were recruited and randomly distributed into the intervention and control group by concealed envelop method. Participants in the experimental group were provided with inspiratory muscle training (IMT) with breathing exercises and chest clearance techniques, while the control group received breathing exercises and chest clearance techniques. Both groups received three treatment sessions before their scheduled surgery. The assessment was done at three-time intervals: At baseline, after three sessions, and after surgery. The outcome measures were oxygen saturation, heart rate, respiratory rate, Borg scale of perceived exertion (Borg PRE), Tampa scale of kinesiophobia for the heart (TSKH), and days spent at ICU after CABG. Results: Oxygen saturation, respiratory rate, functional capacity, and pulmonary endurance improved significantly among the treatment groups with a P<0.001 and a large effect size. The pulse rate showed no significant improvement; P and effect size were 0.38 and 0.60, respectively. Kinesiophobia and ICU stay also showed significant changes with a P<0.001. The effect size was large for both kinesiophobia and ICU stay. Discussion: IMT as a component of a pre-operative physical therapy plan can improve oxygen saturation, respiratory rate, functional capacity, and pulmonary endurance in CAD patients going for CABG. IMT reduces the level of kinesiophobia and duration of ICU stay after CABG. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Mutations in the SARS-CoV-2 genome might influence pathogenicity, transmission rate, and evasion of the host immune system. Therefore, the purpose of the present study was to investigate the genetic alteration as well as assess their effects on the receptor binding domain (RBD) of the spike and the putative RNA binding site of the RdRp genes of SARS-CoV-2 using bioinformatics tools. Materials and Method: In this cross-sectional study, 45 confirmed COVID-19 patients using qRTPCR were included and divided into mild, severe, and critical groups based on the severity of the disease. RNA was extracted from nasopharyngeal swab samples using a commercial kit. RT-PCR was performed to amplify the target sequences of the spike and RdRp genes and sequence them by the Sanger method. Clustal OMEGA, MEGA 11 software, I-mutant tools, SWISS-MODEL, and HDOCK web servers were used for bioinformatics analyses. Results: The mean age of the patients was 50.68±2.73. The results showed that four of six mutations (L452R, T478K, N501Y, and D614G) in RBD and three of eight in the putative RNA binding site (P314L, E1084D, V1883T) were missense. In the putative RNA binding site, another deletion was discovered. Among missense mutations, N501Y and V1883T were responsible for increasing structural stability, while others were responsible for decreasing it. The various homology models designed showed that these homologies were like the Wuhan model. The molecular docking analysis revealed that the T478K mutation in RBD had the highest binding affinity. In addition, 35 RBD samples (89.7%) and 33 putative RNA binding site samples (84.6%) were similar to the Delta variant. Conclusion: Our results indicated that double mutations (T478K and N501Y) in the S protein might increase the binding affinity of SARS-CoV-2 to human ACE2 compared to the wild-type (WT) strain. Moreover, variations in the spike and RdRp genes might influence the stability of encoded proteins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Global Multi-Dimensional Poverty Index (MPI) was developed in 2010 and used health, education and standard of living indicators to determine the incidence and intensity of poverty experienced by a population. While the MPI is a global index, the method is flexible and can be modified to best suit the environment or target groups. Coastal regions are one of the most critical areas that require modified MPI, since their complex structures are constantly subjected to natural and human changes that affect the living conditions of residents. What is lost in using the global MPI for poverty assessment in coastal communities is the lack of attention to contextual characteristics and, subsequently, missing various multi-aspect indicators in different natures and scales. This paper reviews the MPI and tries to expand the model based on the indicators of marine development approaches for the Makran coastal region as the case study. Overall, this review draws attention to social, natural, and financial capitals that have not conventionally been incorporated into the MPI model. According to the proposed model, although the Makran region has made slight progress in poverty reduction based on the general MPI index under the influence of development plans and various drivers during a ten-year period, it is severely impoverished in social, financial, and natural indicators presented by the expanded model. This difference shows the importance of using the developed model to enhance assessment accuracy and recommends a combination of five main poverty-related dimensions for poverty alleviation policies and evaluation processes in coastal regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Congenital toxoplasmosis can cause severe consequences in the fetus, such as spontaneous abortion which is affected by parasite strain. Also, recent studies revealed the high genetic diversity of Toxoplasma gondii. This study aims to investigate the serological status of T. gondii in pregnant women, multilocus genotyping in aborted fetuses' tissue, and archived formalin‐fixed paraffin-embedded placenta. This study was performed on 100 pregnant women with spontaneous abortion and their aborted fetuses, and 250 of the archived placentae in Iran. The blood and tissue were examined for seroprevalence and genotype determination of T. gondii using ELISA and multilocus nested-PCR–RFLP, respectively. Anti-T. gondii IgG and IgM were detected in 68 samples (68%) and 1 (1%) out of 100 serums. Toxoplasma DNA was identified in 1 (1%) aborted fetuses' tissue and 32 (12.8%) placenta samples. Overall, ten positive DNA samples were successfully genotyped, and five genotypes were recognized (ToxoDB#1, #2, #10, #27, and #48). The obtained results indicated congenital toxoplasmosis is a severe risk in this region. As type I is highly pathogen and can lead to severe complications, the prevention of the infection should be considered in seronegative pregnant women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The COVID-19 pandemic exposed healthcare workers to heavy stress and made them vulnerable to various types of mental illnesses. This study aims to evaluate the psychological effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health of healthcare workers in the COVID-19 ward. Methods: This study was performed during the first peak of the COVID-19 pandemic in 9-Dey Hospital of Torbat Heydarieh in Iran, in which a total of 178 healthcare workers in the COVID-19 ward participated via the census sampling method. In this study, we employed the Goldberg general health questionnaire along with a researchermade questionnaire on the experience of exposure to COVID-19 disease. Following the completion of the questionnaires, the participants' data were analyzed by the SPSS software and statistical tests (the Spearman and Pearson correlations). Results: Our results showed 91.1%, 77.57%, 87.55%, 87.07%, 56.75%, and 74.16% for the general health, physical symptoms, anxiety symptoms, sleep disorders, social dysfunction, and depression symptoms, respectively, during the COVID-19 pandemic conditions. The results showed a significant association between the experience of exposure to COVID-19, anxiety symptoms, and sleep disorders (P<0.05). Discussion: Access to counseling and psychotherapy systems, rehabilitation, and the improvement of working conditions can effectively enhance resilience and promote the mental health of healthcare workers and increase the quality of care and treatment services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new species of the genus Willinema, collected in two locations from north-west Iran, is described and illustrated. Willinema persicum sp. nov. is characterised by its 1.42–1.89 mm long body, lip region offset by weak constriction and 10–13 μm broad, odontostyle 14–18 μm long, neck 270–306 μm long, pharyngeal expansion 110–137 μm long, female genital system mono-opistho-ovarian, anterior genital branch 41–133 μm long or 0.8–2.9 times the corresponding body diameter, posterior uterus tripartite, vulva a pre-equatorial (V= 39–44) transverse slit, tail short and convex conoid to rounded (19–27 μm, c= 61–84, c′ = 0.7–1.0), spicules 36–41 μm long, and 7–9 ventromedian supplements with hiatus. The taxonomy of the genus is updated, including an emended diagnosis, list of species, key to their identification, and compendium of their main morphometric traits. Eudorylaimus brunettii apud Andrássy (1967), nec Meyl (1953), is renamed Willinema chilense sp. nov. The phylogeny of the group is briefly addressed also. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted to investigate the response of maize hybrids to drought stress and to select the most drought-tolerant cultivar compared to other hybrids. The experiment was performed on six maize hybrids in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications under regular irrigation and limited irrigation in the vegetative and reproductive stages in Iran. Drought tolerance indices (TOL, MP, GMP, STI, SSI, and HAR) for the grain yield of genotypes were calculated, and principal component analysis was based on them. The results obtained from estimating the indices showed that the SC647 and KSC704 hybrids, while having good performance in both conditions, also have drought tolerance. Examining the correlation between drought tolerance indices and yield in both conditions, among the indices used to detect drought tolerance, STI, MP, and GMP indices can be considered suitable for selecting high-yielding hybrids in these conditions. The principal components analysis on the stress-tolerance index showed that MP and GMP indices could be used as the best indices with high coefficients to select stress-tolerance hybrids. SC647 and KSC704 hybrids were identified and selected as hybrids with high tolerance to moisture stress. The results of drought tolerance indices in the emergence stage of the crest showed that the KSC260 hybrid has the lowest level of stress sensitivity. SC647 hybrids showed the lowest susceptibility to drought stress in the ear emergence stage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Although various dietary patterns have been indicated to be associated with the resting metabolic rate [RMR], limited data are available in this field. This study was therefore focused on the association between dietary patterns and resting metabolic rate among participants with overweight and obesity. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 304 women with overweight or obesity (BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2), aged 18–50. Anthropometric assessments, physical activity and biochemical measurements were assessed. RMR was also measured by means of indirect calorimetry. Dietary intake of participants was evaluated by 147-item semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire [FFQ]. Results: There was a significant association between higher adherence to the healthy dietary pattern [HDP] and RMR (P = 0.05), intakes of protein (P = 0.003), minerals (P = 0.001) as well as fat free mass [FFM] (P = 0.002), bone mineral content (P = 0.001), skeletal muscle mass (P = 0.001), soft lean mass (P = 0.002) and visceral fat area (P = 0.05). Also, there was a considerable association between higher adherence to the unhealthy dietary pattern [UHDP] and fasting blood sugar [FBS] (P = 0.05). Using multinomial logistic regression has been shown that the medium adherence to the HDP was marginally significant with decreased resting metabolic rate [Dec. RMR] group in crude model (OR: 0.54; 95% CI: 0.28–1.05, P = 0.07). After controlling for various confounders such as age, FFM, physical activity, and energy intake, the association between Dec. RMR group and the lowest quartile of the HDP (OR: 0.36; 95% CI: 0.14–0.91, P = 0.03) became significant as well as the association between Dec. RMR group and medium adherence to the HDP (OR: 0.42; 95% CI: 0.18–0.97, P = 0.04). The medium adherence to the UHDP in crude model was also significant with increased resting metabolic rate [Inc. RMR] group (OR: 2.59; 95% CI: 1.01–6.65, P = 0.04). Conclusions: Our study showed that there are significant associations between dietary patterns and RMR status. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. Among the protozoa of veterinary importance, Neospora caninum is responsible for large economic and productive losses in cattle herds. Dogs are being considered the definitive hosts of the parasite. Neospora caninum has gained considerable attention through its role in the etiology of bovine abortion. The current study aimed at assessing the status of Neospora infection in cattle in Boyer-Ahmad County in Kohgiluyeh and Boyer-Ahmad province, southwest of Iran. Methods. In this cross-sectional study, 150 cattle blood samples were collected and samples were screened for N. caninum antibodies using a modified direct agglutination test (MAT). For the same samples, 130 buffy coats were collected and tested, by PCR, for the presence of N. caninum DNA, targeting the Nc-5 gene. Results. Anti-N. caninum antibodies were detected in the sera of 49 out of 150 cattle which is corresponding to a seroprevalence rate of 32.7%. Neospora DNA was detected in buffy coats of 26 out of 127 (20.47%) cattle. Even though Neospora infection was more common in females and in five-year-old cattle by serology and molecular methods, yet there was no statistically significant difference between age, sex, and Neospora infection in both molecular and serological methods (p > 0.05). Conclusion. Findings of the current study indicate a high rate of N. caninum infection in cattle of Boyer-Ahmad region in the southwest of Iran. This issue should be further investigated and the prevention and control of this parasite in livestock, due to the high financial burden of this parasite in the livestock industry, should be considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Toxoplasma gondii is an intracellular protozoan parasite responsible for systemic disease in a wide range of warm-blooded animals. The current study is aimed at evaluating the prevalence of Toxoplasma infection in dogs, using serological and molecular methods in rural areas in Kazeroun Township, Fars province, southern Iran. Methods. Blood samples were obtained from 60 clinically healthy dogs with an age range of 1 to 7 years in three rural areas of Fars province, southern Iran. Sera and buffy coats were used to assess the T. gondii infection using both modified agglutination test (MAT) and real-time PCR. Results. Antibodies against T. gondii were detected in 5 out of 60 (8.3%) dogs by the MAT method, and T. gondii DNA was detected in 17 out of 60 (28.3%) studied animals. There was no significant association between sex and seropositivity to Toxoplasma (p > 0.05). Fair agreement (kappa = 0.27) was seen between molecular and serological findings where three dogs with positive serological results had a positive molecular test. Conclusion. Findings of the present study show a relatively high prevalence of T. gondii infection in dogs in rural areas in Fars province, southern Iran. Finding the parasite genotype in dogs deserves further study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In a survey on soil nematode fauna of northwest and north of Iran, one undescribed and three known members of the genus Talanema Andrássy, 1991 were collected. The nematodes were identified based on morphological and morphometrical characters. Talanema saccatum sp. n. collected from soil around roots of almond trees in Sufiyan, East Azarbaijan province, is characterized by its 1.20–1.53 mm long body, lip region nearly angular, more than twice of its height, 14.0–17.0 μm wide, odontostyle 18.0–20.0 μm or 1.1–1.5 times the lip region diam., odontophore 26.0–29.0 μm long, vulva transverse slit at 53.0–56.0% of body length, prerectum 1.4–2.4, rectum 1.0–1.2 anal body diam. Long, tail 24.0–31.0 μm (c = 42.0–54.0 and c′ = 0.8–1.0), with digitate terminus and rounded tip, ventrally nearly straight, with numerous saccate bodies mostly in ventral side and sometimes on both sides. Herein, Talenema avolai Vinciguerra and Clausi, 1994, Talanema pararapax (Ahmad and Jairajpuri, 1982) Andrássy, 1991 and Talanema sphinctum (Mohilal and Dhanachand, 2001) Imran et al., 2021 are also reported as new records of this genus from the country. An updated identification key for all species is also provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Human toxocariasis is caused by Toxocara canis and T. cati, the nematodes in the intestine of dogs and cats, respectively. Since the association between asthma and toxocariasis is controversial, the aim of the present study was to investigate the seroprevalence of Toxocara infection among asthmatic children in comparison with healthy children. Methods: This case-control study was conducted on 92 asthmatic and 91 healthy children aged 1-16 years old in Shiraz City, Southern Iran in 2019-2020. The serum samples were tested for IgG anti-Toxocara antibodies by ELISA method using the T. canis larval excretory-secretory (E/S) antigens. The collected data were analyzed using SPSS software. Results: The seroprevalence of toxocariasis in asthmatic patients was higher than the healthy children with no significant difference in Toxocara seropositivity between two groups (9.8% vs 8.8%, P = 0.817). The association between Toxocara infection and variables such as gender and age were not statistically significant. Conclusion: There was no significant association between toxocariasis and childhood asthma. Further study on different regions such as urban and rural areas with a large sample size and using questionnaire for considering risk factors of asthma and toxocariasis is recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Appropriate increases in tobacco taxes and prices are an essential component of comprehensive tobacco control strategies. This study investigates factors related to the use, sale, and distribution of cigarettes in Iran, focusing on the relationship between cigarette price and its consumption.Methods: This interview-based qualitative study was conducted among 20 participants, including cigarette smokers, retail shop owners, large-scale distributors, and an expert in tobacco control research.Results: Seven themes were extracted from participant interviews, including the type and price of cigarette, the best time to sell cigarettes, profits from the sale of cigarette, affordability, rise in cigarette price and smokers' reaction to it, lobbying and black-market sales of cigarettes, and the sale and distribution of cigarettes across the country. Although the price of cigarettes in Iran has shown some increases in the past decade, the timing of these increases are not predictable and the limited amount of these increases has not reduced the use of cigarettes. Following a price increase, consumers are more likely to switch from buying packets to single cigarettes, or buy a less expensive brand, then to quit. Moreover, increases in prices may encourage smokers and sellers to buy a large number of cigarettes and store them for a rainy day. Another adverse effect may be increased smuggling of illicit cigarettes to balance the pressure caused by rising prices.Conclusions: Our findings highlight two important aspects concerning cigarette pricing in Iran. First is the change in the type of purchase from the whole box of cigarettes to the single stick cigarette or swapping to less expensive cigarettes. Second, increase in cigarette price (either through taxing or regular increases) could be offset by flooding smuggled cigarettes into the market. Therefore, in addition to raising cigarette prices, reducing cigarette consumption rates in Iran requires the development and effective implementation of regulatory policies to control cigarette smuggling, reduce purchasing, and subsequently curb the use of this leading cause of premature morbidity and mortality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: This this study aimed to investigate the causes and prognoses of liver re-transplantation in patients referred to Imam Khomeini Hospital Liver Transplantation Center. Background: Organ shortage is a major problem in the world, a high demand for liver transplantation has exacerbated this problem. Thus, providing more information on the causes of liver re-transplantation, its prognosis, and other issues related to this procedure is of great importance. Methods: This study was conducted in 2018 as a historical cohort. In this study, the records of liver transplantation patients at Imam Khomeini Hospital Liver Transplantation Center between 2000 and 2016 were studied, and data was extracted from the records of patients undergoing liver transplantation. Patient data was entered into SPSS 20 software and analyzed. Results: In this study, 1030 patients with a mean age of 43.15 ± 14.57 years were studied. There were 426 women (41.4%) and 604 men (58.6%). The number of primary transplants was 966 with a mean age of 43.19 ± 14.72, and the number of re-transplants was 64 with a mean age of 42.56 ± 12.82. Significant differences were found between the two groups in terms of MELD and CHILD scores, cold ischemic time, total and direct bilirubin levels, liver function factors (ALT, AST, and alkaline phosphatase), hemoglobin, and WBC. There was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of age, sex, or platelets (> 0.05). The mortality rate was 241 (23.39%) in all patients and the mortality rate was 206 (21.32%) and in liver transplant patients was 35 (54.68%). The mortality rate in the transplant group was statistically higher (p<0.001). Secondary was primary non-functional graft (PNF) (37.5%) with 1-, 3, and 5-year survival rates of 82%, 81%, and 70% in primary group and 59%, 43% and 32% in re-transplantation, respectively. There was a significant difference in survival between the two groups (p <0.05). Hemoglobin and alkaline phosphatase were predictors of survival rates in transplant patients. Conclusion: The results of this study showed that the survival rate of re-transplant patients was significantly lower than that of primary transplant patients, and the mortality rate in re-transplant patients was significantly higher. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Canine visceral leishmaniasis (CVL) is endemic in the southern parts of Iran. The current study aimed at molecular and serological evaluation of zoonotic visceral leishmaniasis in dogs in Fars province, southern Iran. Blood samples were collected from 60 dogs in the three villages in Fars Province. Serum samples were tested for antibodies against L. infantum by direct agglutination test (DAT). DNA was extracted from each dog's buffy coat and tested by PCR, targeting the Leishmania ITS‐2 region. From a total of 60 studied dogs, 25 (41.7%) were female, and 35 (58.3%) were male. Dogs' age ranged from 1 to 7 years, with a mean age of 2.97 (±1.4) years. Anti‐Leishmania antibodies were detected in sera samples of 28 (46.7%) dogs, (titre ≥ 1:320). Out of 28 seropositive cases, 13 (46.4%) were female, and 15 (53.6%) were male. Association between seropositivity and dogs' clinical signs was statistically significant (p <.05). Leishmania DNA was detected in the buffy coat of 3 of 60 studied dogs which were all seropositive by DAT. The PCR products were sequenced and molecular analysis showed that two of the isolates were Leishmania infantum, and one was L. tropica. The high proportion of seropositive dogs indicates the important role of these animals in the epidemiology of the disease in the region. Infected dogs with or without signs, especially those that are molecularly positive, can act as an active reservoir of the disease in the area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: A new species belonging to the genus Aporcella , collected in cultivated soils of East Azarbaijan province, Iran, is described and illustrated. The new species is characterised by its 1.08 (1.05-1.15) mm long body, two-layered cuticle, lip region offset by constriction and 12 (11-13) μ m broad, odontostyle 13.0 (12.5-14.0) μ m long or nearly equal to lip region diam., neck 310 (293-325) μ m long, pharyngeal expansion 137 (128-144) μ m long, occupying 43-45% of the total neck length, female genital system didelphic-amphidelphic, uterus simple, 34-48 μ m long, vulva transverse (V = 59 (58-61)), tail conical with finely rounded terminus (30 (29-33) μ m long, c = 34 (33-36), c′ = 1.5 (1.4-1.6)), and male absent. Molecular analyses, using Bayesian inference based on partial LSU sequences, confirm the monophyly of Aporcella as well as its clustering with other dorylaimid taxa characterised by the absence of pars refringens vaginae. The taxonomy of the genus is updated, with an emended diagnosis, list of species, key to their identification, and a compendium of the main morphometrics of species/populations described since the last available revision. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The present study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of cognitive behavioral therapy based on health psychology on perfectionism and the quality of life (QOL). Materials and Methods: The plan of research is an experimental design by pretest–posttest and control group. The statistical population consists of all clients referring to Talie Counseling and Psychological Services Center located at region 4 of Tehran, of which 30 individuals who had higher perfectionism tendency based on the structured interview were selected as research sample and placed randomly in two: the two-test group and the control group. The test group went under group cognitive behavioral treatment for 2 months (8 sessions, 90 min/session). To evaluate perfectionism, the rate of them was applied and life quality was evaluated through a short form of life quality questionnaire of WH. Data were analyzed by descriptive statistics and covariance analysis (MANCOVA). Results: It was found that cognitive behavioral therapy reduced perfectionism and increased the QOL in the experimental group compared to that of the control group. In fact, perfectionism is rooted in dysfunctional thoughts, negative beliefs, and cognitive distortions that are reduced by cognitive behavioral therapy. When a person's perfectionism decreases, the QOL also improves due to the reduction of anxiety. Conclusion: The present study is one of the main applications of health psychology. Cognitive behavioral interventions have an appropriate effect on perfectionism and solving their related problems. It seems that perfectionism is reduced using cognitive behavioral techniques and practices, and finally, the QOL can improve. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study investigated the stability and adaptability of maize (Zea mays L.) hybrids. In this study, 12 maize hybrids were planted and examined considering the grain yield. The experiment was arranged in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications in four research stations in Iran during two crop years. The combined analysis of variance showed that genotype-environment interactions were significant at one percent probability level. The grain yield can stabilize, and hybrids with specific adaptability are recommended to each environment. Hybrids with specific adaptability can be recommended to all types of the environment. Means comparison yield of the genotypes identified DC370 as a high-yield genotype. Regarding AMMI analysis, genotype × environment interactions (GEIs) and two first components were found significant. The SC647 genotype was identified as the most stable genotype. Regarding the stability parameters, SC647 and KSC705 genotypes were selected as the most stable genotypes. From AMMI1 and AMMI2 graphs, the SC647 genotype was identified as the most stable genotype compared with other hybrids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Dogs, as the definitive host of Neospora caninum, are important in the epidemiology of this parasitic infection. We aimed to determine the prevalence of N. caninum infection in a dog population from a rural setting in Fars Province, Southern Iran, using a combination of molecular and serological techniques. Methods: This cross-sectional study was carried out in Nov 2018 in three rural districts, Sar Mashhad, HosseinAbad, and Tolesaman located in Kazeroun Township in Fars province, southern Iran. Blood samples were taken from 60 stray and household dogs. Dogs' sera were tested for antibodies against N. caninum, using a Neospora-Modified Agglutination Test. Moreover, dogs' buffy coats were tested for Neospora DNA, using a molecular method. Results: Anti-Neospora antibodies were detected in sera of 4 out of 60 dogs, corresponding to a seroprevalence rate of 6.7%. Out of 25 female dogs, 1 was seropositive and of 35 males, 3 were seropositive, yet the differences were not statistically significant. The infection was more prevalent in adult dogs (> 12 months), nevertheless, the differences between age and Neospora seropositivity was not statistically significant. N. caninum DNA was not detected in the buffy coat of any of the studied dogs. Conclusion: Findings of the study indicate that N. caninum is a common infection in dogs in rural areas of Fars province in southern Iran. The infected dogs might be a potentially important source of N. caninum infection to livestock in the area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Romani language, also called Gypsy, is a satellite language of the New Indo Aryan(NIA) family spoken mainly in Eastern Europe. The speakers of this language departed from the Subcontinent approximately one thousand years ago. They moved to Turkey via Iran and reached Eastern Europe. A very strong dominant view among the linguists is that Romani originated from Punjab and at the time of their departure from this area their forefathers either spoke some form of Punjabi or Hindi, whereas some researchers think that forefathers of the Gypsies were speakers of either Kashmiri or Sindhi or (Saraiki. In the current study, we highlight similarities between Gypsy (Romani) and Pakistani languages of NIA family and conclude that forefathers of the modern-day Romani were speakers of an older version of either Saraiki or Sindhi or Kashmiri. The core argument of this paper is based on the evidence that Kashmiri, Saraiki and Sindhi have palatalization and complex three-way pronominal suffixes with verbs which they share with Romani which is an indication of genetic relations between Romani and these Pakistani languages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: HIV-infected patients have immunological and clinical features that might affect the pathogenesis, as well as the outcome of the HIV/HEV co-infection. The current study aimed to determine the seroprevalence of anti-HEV antibodies and HEV antigens among HIV-infected patients in Fars Province, Southwest Iran. Methods: Blood samples (5 mL) were collected from 251 HIV-confirmed patients. Respective data, including patients' demographic information, were obtained for each patient. The presence of HEV antigens and anti-HEV antibodies (IgG) were assessed by commercial ELISA kits, based on the manufacturers' instructions. Results: Out of 251 cases, 158 (62.9%) were male and 91 (36.3%) were female. Patients' age varied from 14 to 83 (mean: 40 ± 9.7) years. Out of 251 HIV positive cases, 26 (10.4%) were positive for anti-HEV IgG antibodies and 6 (2.4%) were positive for HEV-antigens. Also, 2 (0.8%) of the patients were positive for both anti-HEV IgG antibodies and antigens. Statistical analysis revealed no significant association between sex and seropositivity to either HEV antigen or antibodies. Moreover, no significant association was seen between age and seropositivity to HEV antigen or antibody (P = 0.622 and 0.945, respectively). Conclusion: Our results showed a relatively low prevalence of HEV-antibodies in HIV-infected patients, indicating that HIV positive patients may not be at greater risk of HEV infection than the general population. Moreover, HEV-antigen was detected in a few cases of HIV-infected individuals which indicate an acute or chronic HEV infection in these patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: We aimed to detect Toxoplasma gondii in ovine aborted fetuses and evaluate its genetic variations in the southwest of Iran. Methods: This cross-sectional study was performed on 100 aborted ovine fetuses collected from the different region of Kohgiluyeh and Boyer-Ahmad Province, Iran, in lambing season during 2017 and 2018. DNA was extracted from the brain samples of all of the aborted fetuses and PCR amplified, targeting a 529 bp repetitive element gene of T. gondii. Moreover, to find out the heterogeneity of the positive samples, PCR-DNA amplification of the two main genetic markers, B1 and GRA6, of T. gondii were performed. Nucleotide sequencing and phylogenetic analysis were performed, using the BLAST program and MEGA-X software. Results: The 529 bp gene of T. gondii was detected in 2 out of 100 (2%) of the ovine aborted samples. The sequences analysis of GRA6 and B1 genes revealed that both isolates from the aborted fetuses of sheep belonged to type I of T. gondii. Intra divergence was more seen in GRA6 gene whereas less divergence was ob-served in B1 gene. Conclusion: Congenital infection with Type I of T. gondii during the neonatal period is associated with abortion in ovine. Evaluation of more aborted samples from broader geographical areas is needed to elucidate the molecular epidemiology and also the genotypes of T. gondii associated with abortion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new species Empitrombium prasadi Saberi-Riseh & Saboori n. sp. (Acari: Microtrombidiidae) is described and illustrated based on larvae extracted from soil, i.e. off their host. A key to the five species based on larvae is provided and the formula of dorsal idiosomal setae of E. pesici is corrected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Human toxocariasis is caused by the larval stage of Toxocara canis and Toxocara cati. This cross-sectional study was conducted to evaluate the seroprevalence and the risk factors associated with Toxocara infection in nomads of Boyer-Ahmad County in the southwest of Iran. Methods A total of 968 blood samples were collected from nomads. A structured questionnaire, containing sociodemographic data, was completed for each participant. Sera were evaluated for anti- Toxocara antibodies, using the T. canis excretory-secretory antigens prepared from the second stage larvae, in an ELISA system. Results Among the 968 participants, 220 (22.7%) were males and 748 (77.3%) were females; the mean age was 40.71 y. Anti- Toxocara IgG antibodies were detected in 14 (1.4%) of the 968 nomads. The association between Toxocara infection and gender, age, contact with dogs, residential area and level of education were not statistically significant (p>0.05). Conclusions The findings of the study revealed a low prevalence rate of toxocariasis in nomadic communities in southwest Iran. Geographic location and climatic conditions as well as the lifestyle and sociodemographic features of the participants may contribute to the low prevalence rate of Toxocara infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gabbro and diorite xenoliths occur within the alkaline trachyandesites in the northern part of Uromieh-Dokhtar magmatic belt (NW Iran). The host volcanic rocks are located on the upper Miocene sediments; therefore, they are probably Plio-Quaternary in age. The texture of xenoliths is granular, and the gabbro xenoliths are classified into two groups based on their petrographic characteristics and mineral chemistry. Based on chemical analyses, xenoliths show a subalkaline to slightly alkaline magmatic trend. Thermobarometric results indicate that gabbro and diorite xenoliths formed within the middle crustal level. All xenolith samples are light rare earth elements (LREEs) enriched and depleted in Ta, Zr, and Nb. These features can be explained by the subduction of the Neotethys. The LREE enrichment as well as negative Th, Ti, Nb, and Zr anomalies and positive Pb anomaly are in agreement with an origin through partial melting of an enriched mantle previously affected by metasomatism processes linked to mantle wedge-derived melts (fluids). Different REE concentration levels and patterns for Group 1 gabbro, Group 2 gabbro, and diorite xenoliths point out that their parental melts were not the same. Those forming the Group 1 gabbro xenoliths originated from melting of garnet mantle lherzolite, whereas the parental melts from Group 2 gabbro and diorite xenoliths originated from melting of spinel-garnet mantle lherzolite. The 86Sr/87Sr and 143Nd/144Nd ratios and chemical composition of minerals are different for host volcanic rocks and xenoliths; therefore, we may conclude that the parental melts of the different groups of xenoliths and host volcanic rocks differ in composition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increased fungi contaminations and related damages cause disease through production of toxins in animals and thus in humans. Since they are not easily distinguishable, then it is crucial to study their characteristics. Aspergillus are among the most important toxigenic fungi that are found abundantly in northern Iran habitat which is one of most important habitat of Iran and is the main source for many feed and food stuffs in the state. Hence, we aimed to study on properties of deoxynivalenol (DON) production in culture medium by 24 Aspergillus spp. isolates from northern Iran. Samples were collected from Northern Alborz and Southern Caspian Sea agricultural plants cultivation areas and processing centers. Samples were then isolated and identified based on CBS environmental sampling rules and ICPA diagnostic standards. They were cultured to stimulate the toxin production until the targeted toxin to be measured at culturing substrate and fungi biomass. Afterward, they were exposed to extraction and existing DON size were measured by ELISA technique Our results indicated that in addition to Fusarium, genus Aspergillus has a potent ability to produce DON toxin or alike molecules. However, validation of this issue needs further studies, in particular, by using advanced biochemical or genomic molecular techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aimed to find out the levels of anti-HBsAb among vaccinated children in a rural community in Fars Province, Southern Iran. Blood samples were taken from 550 children, aged 1–12 years (mean 6.4 ± 3.5), in 2017 from three villages in the area. A structured questionnaire was used to get the sociodemographic data of the subjects along with determinants concerning the Hepatitis B. Sera samples were examined for anti-HBsAb, using an ELISA commercial kit. Anti-HBsAb were detected in 468 (85.1%) of the subjects. Of the seropositive subjects, 37 (45.1%) were female and 45 (54.9%) were male. In the age group of 0–5 years, 88.7% of the subjects were seropositive. This rate was 84.3% and 78.1% in the age group of 6–10 years old and older than 10 years, respectively. There was a significant association (p <.05) between the anti-HBsAb and age. Findings of the current study revealed that children living in a rural community in southern Iran have appropriate protection against HBV even more than 10 years after being vaccinated. The decline in seropositivity rate of anti-HBsAb with age may further point out the need for a booster dose of HBV vaccine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two species of the genus Pungentus, one new and one known, collected in natural vegetation and cultivated soils in northwest of Iran, are studied. Pungentus sufiyanensis n. sp. is characterized by its 1.22 to 1.57 mm long body, offset lip region by a constriction and 7 to 9 μ m broad, 18 to 21 μ m long odontostyle, 304 to 348 μ m long neck, 133 to 161 μ m long esophageal expansion, mono-opisthodelphic female genital system without anterior uterine sac, slightly backward directed vagina, absence of pars refringens vaginae, V = 47−54, rounded-conoid caudal region (17.5–23 μ m, c = 65–84, c´ = 0.7–1) with saccate bodies, and the absence of male. Molecular analysis, based on D2-D3 expansion segments of the 28S rDNA (LSU), confirms the monophyly of the family Nordiidae and suggests the monophyly of the genus Pungentus, with the new species forming a clade with other Iranian species. New data are presented for six Iranian populations of P. engadinensis, and an updated key for the identification of Pungentus species is also provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the impact of two different reperfusion techniques on outcomes of LT patients. Background: Post-reperfusion syndrome (PRS) during liver transplantation (LT) remains a serious issue for both the surgeon and anesthetist. Methods: In this prospective study, all liver transplant recipients referred to the liver transplantation department of Imam Khomeini Hospital, Tehran, Iran, from January 2016 to June 2017 were enrolled in the study and were divided into two groups of vented (reperfusion with 300cc blood venting) and non-vented (reperfusion without blood venting) cases. Then, 30-minute intraoperative hemodynamic and biochemical changes, as well as 2-month complications and 6-month mortality, were compared between the groups. Results: 57 LT cases (31 vented and 26 non-vented) were studied (50.9% female). The two groups had a similar age (p = 0.107), sex (p = 0.885), MELD score (p = 0.61), donor warm ischemic time (p = 0.85), recipient warm ischemic time (p = 0.36), cold ischemic time (p = 0.99), comorbid disease (p = 0.502), and etiology of end-stage liver disease (p = 0.281). PRS occurred in 3 (11.5%) patients in the vented group and 4 (12.9%) in the non-vented group (p = 0.69). One (3.8%) patient in the non-vented group and 4 (12.9%) patients in vented group died (p = 0.229). Conclusion: Reperfusion with and without blood venting had the same outcome regarding intraoperative hemodynamic and biochemical changes, PRS rate, and postoperative complications, as well as 6-month survival. Thus, it seems that blood venting is not a necessary method for decreasing post-reperfusion complications following LT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article examines how Abū al-Faraj Hārūn identified, translated, and interpreted the ancient biblical terms in the book of Isaiah in Arabic to learn about the material world of the Bible, as it was then perceived in the medieval Arab world and Persia. The article focuses on the topics of flora and fauna, providing a comparative analysis of Abū al-Faraj Hārūn's definitions in the Šarḥ al-ʾAlfāẓ with the writings of other Karaite scholars from his circle and those of prior, contemporary, or later rabbinic exegetes. The study of these terms in scholars' writings reveals that many of them were not understood in the same way by medieval exegetes; each interpreted the different terms and translated them into Arabic according to their understanding and the accepted interpretation in their times and places. Therefore, it is little wonder that conflicting opinions arose among different biblical commentators in different eras and different regions. Yet, it also occasionally happened that a biblical word was left untouched, without being translated into Arabic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The architectural education, like other disciplines, has undergone various changes and revisions many times after its inception, and, the views of decision makers of this field have had a very effective role in this process because of their impact on the process of shaping educational systems and environments. In various educational systems, there have always been some ambiguous points about the time duration needed to complete the courses, the basis for selecting the courses offered, and the type of skills taught. In the article ahead, it is attempted to provide an optimal model and coherent strategy for educating architecture by investigating the characteristic of various educational systems at international and national levels, whereby the artichecture students benefit from effective and purposeful education. Accordingly, by adopting the correlation method, in a dependent way combined with a causal and systematic approach, architecture education is considered as a system, that can be investigated and analyzed through the general systems theory. At the end, the analysis of skills priority indicate that “flexibility” is recognized as the most specific characteristic of the description of the architecture courses in the world. This issue, that is applicable in two areas: “flexibility in elective courses” and “flexibility in the subject of architectural design courses”, is based on the way students are evaluated and select courses, depending on their talents. The obtained results indicate that this issue has been neglected in the Iran’s architectural education system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In the current study, we described the epidemiological features, clinical presentation, diagnosis and management of patients with suspicion of fascioliasis in Kohgiluyeh and Boyer-Ahmad Province in southwest of Iran. Methods: Overall, 56 patients with suspicion of fascioliasis, based on their clinical signs and symptoms that referred to Clinic of Internal Medicine in Yasuj city, from 2014 to 2016 were enrolled. Demographic data, history of eating aquatic local plants, the chief complains, and laboratory findings were recorded for each patient. Stool samples were obtained from each case for detection of Fasciola eggs. Moreover, blood samples were taken from each patient and evaluated for detection of anti-Fasciola antibodies by an indirect ELISA. Patients who defined as having fascioliasis were treated with triclabendazole and were followed for at least three months for clinical improvement. Results: Serological test was positive in 5 patients. Of these 5 cases, three cases had a history of ingesting raw aquatic vegetables. The main clinical signs and symptoms in positive cases were; abdominal pain (60%), epigastric pain (40%), anemia (60%), and dermal pruritus (20%). Hypereosinophilia was seen in all of 5 positive cases. No Fasciola egg was found in stool specimens of any of the patients. The fascioliasis cases were treated by triclabendazole and clinical symptoms disappeared in all of 5 cases. Conclusion: Our observation further confirmed Yasuj district as a human endemic area for fascioliasis in Iran. The study also highlighted the importance of clinical features together with eosinophilia, as key parameters, in the diagnosis of human fascioliasis. Clinicians need to be aware of this disease and should keep in mind fascioliasis when hypereosinophilia present in patients in such endemic areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acute gastroenteritis is one of the most important causes of death in children in developing countries which cause by different enteropathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and parasites. Among these, most of the acute gastroenteritis in children are caused by viral infections mainly by rotavirus and norovirus. This study aimed to study the epidemiological and clinical status of acute gastroenteritis resulting from rotavirus and norovirus in children between June 2015 and June 2016 in Iran. A total of 211 stool specimens were collected from Ali Asghar Children's Hospital and Bahrami Children's Hospital in Tehran, from June 2015 to June 2016. The samples were screened by commercial enzyme immunoassay (EIA) Ridascreen kit and real time RT-PCR to detect rotavirus and norovirus genogroups I and II, respectively. The information on demographic and clinical manifestations was collected, and data analyzed using IBM SPSS statistics version 22. Overall, the detection rate of rotavirus was 25.6%, and for norovirus infection, it was 17.5%. All norovirus positive specimens belonged to genogroup II. Higher rates of rotavirus infections were observed in children from 7 to 24 months, and higher rates of norovirus infections were detected in children from 1 to 12 months. Clinical symptoms were not different between rotavirus and norovirus case-patients. The present study not only highlights the importance of rotavirus and norovirus infections in Iran but also verifies the relevance of norovirus as the cause of severe gastroenteritis in children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nutritional supplement (NS) use has increased among the general population, athletes and fitness club participants, and has become a widespread and acceptable behavior. The objective of this study was to determine the differences in socio-demographic, health-related and psychological factors between NS users and non-users. A case control study design was used, whereby participants included 147 NS users (cases) and 147 non-users (controls) aged 18 years old and above who exercised at least three days/week in twenty four fitness clubs in Tehran. A self-administered pre-tested and validated questionnaire was used to collect data. The results showed that on average NS users were younger (29.8 ± 9.5 years) than non-users (35.5 ± 12.2 years). Logistic regression analysis showed that NS use was significantly associated with moderate or high physical activity level (PAL), smoking, gender, eating attitude and age. In conclusion, NS users were more likely to be female, younger, smokers, to have moderate or high PAL and to be prone to eating disorders compared to non-users. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Six species of the genus Tylencholaimellus , one new and five known, collected in virgin and cultivated soils of East Azarbaijan province, Iran, are studied. Tylencholaimellus zeinabadensis sp. n. is morphologically characterised by its 1.2-1.7 mm long body, lip region 10-13 μ m wide and offset by deep and broad constriction, odontostyle 16-20 μ m long, stylet 22-30 μ m long, neck 186-234 μ m long, pharyngeal bulb 30-43 μ m long, anterior uterine sac 55-103 μ m long or 0.9-1.7 corresponding body diam. long, V = 34-41, tail short and rounded to conoid (20-30 μ m, c = 45-83, c′ = 0.5-1.0), spicules 39-50 μ m long, and one or two ventromedian supplements with hiatus. Molecular analyses using the D2-D3 expansion regions of the 28S rRNA gene sequences of the new species confirmed the monophyly of this genus based upon currently available data. A population of T. affinis is described and illustrated, and new data (morphometrics, pictures and distribution) are provided for T. loofi , T. paracinctus , T. polonicus and T. striatus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Two species, one new and another known, of Aporcella , isolated from the rhizosphere of fruit trees in East Azarbaijan, Iran, are described, including morphological data and D2-D3 rDNA LSU sequences. Aporcella malekimilanii sp. n. is characterised by its 1.9-2.7 mm long body, lateral chord bearing glandular bodies, lip region offset by weak constriction and 14-17 μ m broad, odontostyle 13-15 μ m long with aperture occupying 60% of its length, neck 476-619 μ m long, pharyngeal expansion occupying 58-63% of total neck length, uterus simple and 91-100 μ m long, V = 55-61, tail conical (44-56 μ m, c = 41-58, c′ = 1.2-1.7) with finely rounded tip and a short terminal hyaline portion, and male unknown. New data are provided for A. vitrinus , whose Iranian material fits very well the known populations of the species. Molecular analyses reveal close evolutionary relationships of the two species with other representatives of the genus, supporting its monophyly, and confirm that they belong to a major clade with non-aporcelaimid taxa, the relationship with discolaims deserving further attention in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The control of cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) is facilitated by knowledge of factors associated with the treatment failures in endemic countries. The aim of this evaluation was to identify the potential risk determinants which might affect the significance of demographic and clinical characteristics for the patients with anthroponotic CL (ACL) and the outcome of meglumine antimoniate (MA) (Glucantime) treatment. Methodology/Principal findings: This current was executed as a cohort spanning over a period of 5 years which centered in southeastern part of Iran. Altogether, 2,422 participants were evaluated and 1,391 eligible volunteer patients with ACL caused by Leishmania tropica were included. Overall, 1,116 (80.2%) patients received MA intraleisionally (IL), once a week for 12 weeks along with biweekly cryotherapy, while 275 (19.8%) patients received MA alone (20 mg/kg/day for 3 weeks) (intramuscular, IM). The treatment failure rate in ACL patients was 11% using IL combined with cryotherapy plus IM alone, whilst 9% and 18.5% by IL along with cryotherapy or IM alone, respectively. Multivariate logistic regression model predicted 5 major associated-risk determinants including male (odds ratio (OR) = 1.54, confidence interval (CI) = 1.079–2.22, p = 0.018), lesion on face (OR = 1.574, CI = 1.075–2.303, p = 0.02), multiple lesions (OR = 1.446, CI = 1.008–2.075, p = 0.045), poor treatment adherence (OR = 2.041, CI = 1.204–3.46, p = 0.008) and disease duration > 4 months (OR = 2.739, CI = 1.906–3.936, p≤0.001). Conclusions/Significance: The present study is the original and largest cohort of ACL patients who treated with MA. A comprehensive intervention and coordinated action by the health authorities and policy-makers are crucial to make sure that patients strictly follow medical instructions. Early detection and effective therapy < 4 months following the onset of the lesion is critical for successful treatment of the patients. Since a significant number of patients are still refractory to MA, reducing man-vector exposure and development of new effective alternative drugs are essential measures against ACL due to L. tropica. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study aimed at the seroepidemiological survey of human cystic echinococcosis (CE) in nomadic people in Boyer-Ahmad District in the southwest of Iran. One thousand and five nomads were selected by cross-sectional sample collection in nomadic tribes of Boyer-Ahmad District in the southwest of Iran. Blood samples were taken from each individual, and the sera were tested for detection of anti-hydatid cyst antibodies using antigen B-ELISA. A predesigned questionnaire which contained basic epidemiological and individual information related to hydatid cyst was filled for each subject during sample collecting. Subjects of the study were 227 males (22.6%) and 778 (77.4%) females. The mean age of the participants was 40.4 years old (±16.6). Anti-hydatid cyst antibodies were detected in 81 (8.1%) of the subjects. Seroprevalence rate for CE in females (9%) was more than males (4.8%). Multivariate logistic regression revealed significant associations between CE seropositivity and sex (odds ratio [OR] = 1.88; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.93-3.80) and dog ownership (OR = 8.3; 95% CI = 3.94-16.37). The rate of infection with CE in nomadic people in southwest of Iran is considerable. Treatment of dogs and increasing the level of people awareness may contribute a substantial advancement in the control of the disease in the area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Xiphinema barooghii n. sp. collected from the rhizosphere of common wheat ( Triticum aestivum L.) in Roodghat area, Sufiyan, East-Azarbaijan province, northwest of Iran, is described on the basis of the morphological, morphometric and molecular data. The new species belongs to morphospecies group 6 of the polytomous key prepared by Loof and Luc, 1990. Xiphinema barooghii n. sp. is characterized by having two almost equally developed female reproductive branches with spines in the tubular portion of the uterus, a body length of 3.67-4.25 mm, a flat lip region, rounded cephalic region, separated from body contour by a shallow depression, a spear 215-225 µm long, mid-body diameter of 60-79 µm, vulva (46-48%), a short tail (30-38 µm, c = 103-133, c' = 0.7-0.9), conoid, dorsally convex, ventrally directed with a small terminal peg and a distinct terminal blind canal, the presence of four juvenile stages and the absence of males. The polytomous identification codes of the new species are: A4, B3, C5a, D6, E5, F4, G3, H2, I3, J4, K2, L1. In addition to morphological and morphometric data, molecular analyses of the D2--D3 expansion regions of the 28S rDNA gene placed the new species as a sister species of X. herakliense (Group 5) with 65% Bayesian posterior probability and further separated this species from the other members in group 6. In this study, X. index, X. pachtaicum and X. vuittenezi were also collected and additional data for the species were provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Background: Sonoelastography is a new ultrasound method which could be helpful to determine which thyroid nodule is malignant. We designed this study to evaluate the accuracy of sonoelastography in differentiating of benign and malignant thyroid nodules in Iranian patients. Methods: Forty thyroid nodules in forty consecutive patients who had been referred for sonography-guided fine-needle aspiration biopsy were evaluated. Gray scale ultrasound and elastosonography by real-time, freehand technique applied for all patients. Elastography findings were classified into four groups. Nodules which were classified as patterns 1 or 2 in elastogram evaluation were classified as benign and probably malignant if elastogram scans were patterns 3 and 4 of elastogram scan. Results: Mean age ± standard deviation (SD) was 42.2 ± 12.6 years, and mean ± SD thyroid-stimulating hormone level was 1.4 ± 1.9 IU/ml. Thirty-five cases (87.5%) were female and 5 (12.5%) were male. Histological examination indicated 27 (67.5%) benign and 13 (32.5%) malignant nodules. The most elastogram score was 2 (50%) followed by score 3. The cut-off point of 2 considered as the best value to differentiate benign and malignant thyroid nodules with sensitivity and specificity of 61% and 78% (area under the curve = 0.76, 95% confidence interval: 0.6-0.92, P = 0.007). Conclusions: Sonoelastography could help to differentiate benign and malignant thyroid nodules. As our sample size was limited, larger studies are recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]