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This study aimed to investigate the vegetation production changes in Khuzestan province, Iran using MODIS data production, meteorological data, vegetation maps as well as topographic and field monitoring data in CASA model. The study area was divided into different climatic classes based on multivariate statistical method, so the vegetation of each climatic region was examined separately for changes in NPP values. Production changes due to degradation were calculated using the Miami model and subsequently, the rain use efficiency (RUE) and the light use efficiency (LUE) and correlation indices between the CASA model and ground data were determined. The results of this study (R2) showed that the accuracy of this model varies depending on the type of climatic regions (R2 = 0.80 to R2 = 0.15). In different climatic regions, the rate of NPP changes (very humid 68 gC/m2 to ultra-dry 15 gC/m2) varies in rangeland types. The highest rate of vegetation production is observed seasonally in May. Degradation conditions also reduced RUE and LUE. However, in hyper-arid regions, adaptations of plants in some different species (Hammada Spp.) increase their efficiency compared to other vegetation types. The results showed the importance of vegetation and climate classification in vegetation production studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The curriculum for teaching undergraduate university students in Iran majoring in English generally includes paragraph writing in the second year and essay writing (4-5 paragraphs) in the third year. The first-year course 'Grammar and Writing (I & II)' offered in two consecutive semesters covers grammar only, despite the inclusion of writing in the title, and rarely goes beyond sentence-level writing in support of the newly taught grammar. This one-year delay in focusing on writing per se has been a source of frustration for those students who have to deal with the demanding writing tasks or large-scale written assignments such as extended essays and papers later during their academic or professional life. The current study describes and evaluates a teaching intervention for the potential development of a writing curriculum in first-year writing classes. A pre-test-post-test control group design was employed to compare the effect of the writing instruction within the process genre approach with that of the traditional grammar and sentence-level writing on the fluency, accuracy and quality of students' (n = 68) paragraph and essay writing during two consecutive semesters. Findings from the tests and a focus group discussion revealed that students in the treatment group outperformed their control group counterparts at both paragraph and essay levels. The findings could inspire similar EFL programmes to design a writing curriculum and instruction commensurate with the real needs of their students.

Background: Congenital heart disease (CHD), a developmental abnormality of the heart and vessels, is encountered in the pediatric age group frequently. Brachial artery flow-mediated dilation (FMD) and carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT) are indicators of subclinical cardiovascular disease and are used as surrogate measures of subclinical atherosclerosis. The present study aimed to compare CIMT and FMD between children with acyanotic congenital heart disease (ACHD) and healthy controls. Methods: A case-control study on 50 children with ACHD and 43 healthy individuals was done in Isfahan, Iran, between 2021 and 2022. The case group was selected via non-random sampling, and healthy controls were recruited from the relatives of the patients. A checklist, including age, sex, body mass index, and blood pressure, was filled out for all the participants. Then, FMD and CIMT were measured with brachial and carotid artery ultrasonography. Results: Fifty children with ACHD and 43 healthy individuals (controls) under 18 years old participated in this study. Of these, 44 (47.3%) were girls and 49 (52.7%) were boys. The mean FMD was significantly higher in the ACHD group than in the control group (0.084±0.027 vs 0.076±0.042; P=0.021; 95% CI, 007 to 0.122;). CIMT was significantly higher in the ACHD group than in the control group (0.39±0.12 vs 0.34±0.1; P=0.037; 95% CI, 0.009 to 0.102;). However, systolic and diastolic blood pressure did not show differences between the groups. Conclusion: Based on our results, CIMT and FMD assessment may help detect early changes in peripheral vessels associated with atherosclerosis in the future in ACHD. Further studies are needed to confirm our findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this grounded theory study was to explore school counselors' experiences working with immigrants. Based on this exploration, the author proposes a model that explains the process of becoming effective school counselors in working with immigrants. This model relies on social justice, and it consists of four developmental stages: superficial awareness, growing awareness, application, and culturally competent school counselor. Implications for school counselors are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In countries such as Iran and the Russian Federation, the term 'resistance' carries profound significance, as they have grappled with enduring economic and political sanctions imposed by Western powers. Over time, both Iran and Russia have confronted a series of sanctions targeting their economic and financial sectors. In response to the adverse effects of these sanctions, both nations have embraced a strategy of 'resistance.' Experts contend that financial and economic sanctions induce substantial shifts in a country's macroeconomic landscape, prompting the adoption of distinct policies and strategic orientations. Against this backdrop, this research undertakes a comprehensive examination and analysis of the discourses surrounding economic resistance and resilient economies in Iran and the Russian Federation, with a focus on elucidating their commonalities and disparities. The research methodology employed in this study is the SWOT analysis method. Findings reveal that both Iran and Russia, while contending with Western sanctions, have pursued the implementation of resilient economy and economic resistance strategies, respectively. Iran's resilient economy signifies a transition towards long-term economic resilience rooted in religious principles. Conversely, Russia's economic resistance constitutes a short-term response to sanctions driven by political considerations". [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The flower of oil-bearing rose (Rosa damascena Mill.), with its characteristic floral scent is the most important source for cosmetic, food, parfume and pharmaceutical industries. Oil-bearing rose is cultured in many countries of the World, especially in Turkey, Bulgaria, Iran and India. In this research, it was aimed to compare the essential oil compounds detected by GC-FID of Turkish (Isparta), Bulgarian (Kazanlak), Iranian (Darab) and Indian (Kashmiri) rose oil samples, which were produced according to distillation methods of their own countries, based on international quality parameters (ISO 9842:2003). According to the results of analysis, while Turkish and Bulgarian rose oils were high in citronellol (34.05% and 31.06%, respectively), geraniol (16.55% and %21.11, respectively), and nerol (7.68% and 10.68%, respectively), Iranian rose oil were rich in nonadecane (23.56%), nonadecene (10.26%), and heneicosane (8.82%) at high ratios. The total monoterpene alcohols (oleoptens) were determined as 58.28%, 62.85% and 13.39%, respectively, and total aliphatic hydrocarbons (stearoptens) were determined as 17.03%, 20.55%, and 44.14%, respectively in Turkish, Bulgarian and Iranian rose oils. As a result, it was determined that Turkish and Bulgarian rose oils conformed to the international rose oil standard, while Iranian rose oil remained outside the standards and Indian rose oil partially complied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In 2016, a prospective registry for pediatric patients with congenital heart disease (CHD) was established in Isfahan, Iran. Data on pediatric CHD in Iran are scant; accordingly, we aimed to report the early results of the Persian Registry Of cardioVascular diseasE (PROVE/CHD) Registry in Isfahan. Methods: All patients with CHD and associated defects diagnosed by pediatric cardiologists were assessed via echocardiography for inclusion in the present study between late 2016 and August 2019. The participants' sociodemographic characteristics, maternal history, birth history, medical history, current clinical presentations in the clinic or hospital, paraclinical data, cardiac diagnoses based on the International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision (ICD-10), disease management plans, and medications were entered into a questionnaire by the subjects 'parents/legal custodians and physicians and then transferred to the PROVE/CHD Registry. Results: The PROVE/CHD registry encompasses 1252patients with CHD (49.9% male) at a mean age of 6.50±6.36years. The most frequent cardiac diagnoses were ventricular septal defect (39.3%), atrial septal defect (29.7%), patent ductus arteriosus (25.4%), pulmonary stenosis (11.0%), tetralogy of Fallot (6.1%), coarctation of the aorta (5.4%), and aortic stenosis (5.1%), respectively. The most frequent interventions were patent ductus arteriosus closure (4.3%), atrial septal defect closure (3.6%), pulmonary valvuloplasty (2.2%), coarctation of the aorta angioplasty (1.9%), and ventricular septal defect closure (1.1%), correspondingly. The approximate corresponding rates of corrective and palliative surgeries were 32.0% and 13.1%. The corrective surgeries were mainly comprised of ventricular septal defect closure (7.8%), patent ductus arteriosus closure (7.3%), atrial septal defect closure (5.1%), and tetralogy of Fallot repair (3.8%), respectively. The palliative surgeries mainly consisted of the Glenn shunt (9.0%) and pulmonary artery banding (3.6%). Conclusion: The PROVE/CHD Registry collects data on pediatric patients with CHD. The results of this registry can provide epidemiological data and a set of homogeneously defined cases for further studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and purpose: The aim of the current study was to evaluate the effectiveness of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) on aggression and general health of patients with a diagnosis of psychosis due to methamphetamine use. Materials and Methods: This pilot study is an experimental controlled study with repeat measurements. Thirty patients were randomly assigned to study and control groups. The study group, received six weekly sessions of ACT, in addition to the usual treatment, while the control group received only the usual treatment. Both groups were tested using the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-28) and Buss Perry Aggression Questionnaire (BPAQ) at three cross sections of time. Results: General health was improved significantly in study group comparing with control group (P < 0.0001). There were significant differences between the three time points of therapy (p = 0.0001; F(2,56) = 41/456). Additionally, there were significant differences between the means of the three time points of therapy in aggressiveness variable (p = 0.0001; F(2,56) = 190/845). Findings: ACT improved general health and decreased aggressiveness in the study group compared to the control group and may be a good therapy for methamphetamine dependents who suffer from psychosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Improvement of endothelial dysfunction could prevent or delay the occurrence of the atherosclerosis process in patients with Kawasaki disease (KD). It is suggested that Vitamin C could improve endothelial dysfunction. In this study, we investigated whether administration of Vitamin C as a water-soluble antioxidant could be effective in this regard among patients with KD. Materials and Methods: In this case control analytic-experimental study, children aged 3-18 years with KD, and a group of healthy children evaluated. Vitamin C (250 mg/daily) administrated for the two studied groups for 1 month. Endothelial function evaluated by flow-mediated dilatation (FMD) and intima-media thickness (IMT) measurement using vascular Doppler ultrasonography, before and after trial. Results: In this study, 16 patients with KD and 19 normal children were studied. At baseline mean of IMT and FMD was not different in the two studied groups (P > 0.05). After Vitamin C administration IMT decreased significantly in two studied groups (from 27.06 ± 6.27 to 21.56 ± 3.77 in KD group and from 27.66 ± 5.66 to 23.33 ± 3.66 in control group [P < 0.05]). FMD increased in two studied groups, but the difference was significant in the control group (from 6.84 ± 2.51 to 7.03 ± 2.87 in KD group and from 6.53 ± 2.36 to 7.82 ± 2.14 in the control group). Conclusion: Vitamin C might improve the endothelial function of patients with KD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Windows have a major role on absorbing solar energy, reducing heat loses, and adding their values in traditional houses in Ardabil. The main aim of this research is to study windows as elements of beautification and production of clean and free energy. We discern that windows can be designed to respond to the regional climates. To explore that, we review four samples of the windows in the famous traditional houses of the Ardabil such as: Rezazadeh's, Ebrahimi's, Ershadi's and Sadeghi's that are related to the Qajar and Zand architecture periods in Iran. Research method for this study is the comparative and interpretative-history review. Moreover, the information is collected from documents and libraries. We focused in sash window design in southern front of traditional houses. Results showed that the physical dimensions of these windows are compatible in cold climates of Ardabil which are different from the other front of architectures. Also, this research showed that light loss in the Rezazadeh House is 17% and in Ebrahimi is 7%, Ershadi's and Sadeghi's were respectively 8.5% because there is a canopy above the window at Rezazadeh House. The last three houses are close to the average. So, it showed that windows can be designed to respond to the regional climates. The placements of windows in front wall without any indentations in the south walls indicate the need for more light on this front. But in the east and west side windows, the windows are associated with a slight indentation. Also, using large dimension windows in southern side of the case studies shows that light in these fronts was very important. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The relations between Turkey and the USA witnessed considerable volatility and uncertainty during the first decade of the 21st century. The war in Iraq played a major role in the worsening of the relations between the two allies. There were also problems between Ankara and Washington over Turkey's policy toward Iran's nuclear development programme. The efforts of the AKP government to forge close ties with the radical and anti-American political actors in the Middle East as well as the deterioration of the Israeli–Turkish relations also contributed to the strains in the bilateral relationship. However, Turkey's decision to host NATO's radar missile shield system in 2011 rapidly improved Turkey–USA relations. The main argument of this paper is that regional security problems, the decline of American power and the trend toward a multipolar world, and the transformation of Turkish domestic politics were primarily responsible for the emergence of new directions in the bilateral ties between the two countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ventricular septal defect (VSD) is one of the most common types of congenital heart defects (CHD). There are vivid multifactorial causes for VSD in which both genetic and environmental risk factors are consequential in the development of CHD. Methionine synthase reductase (MTRR) and methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) are two of the key regulatory enzymes involved in the metabolic pathway of homocysteine. Genes involved in homocysteine/folate metabolism may play an important role in CHDs. In this study; we determined the association of A66G and C524T polymorphisms of the MTRR gene and C677T polymorphism of the MTHFR gene in Iranian VSD subjects. A total of 123 children with VSDs and 125 healthy children were included in this study. Genomic DNA was extracted from the buccal cells of all the subjects. The restriction fragment length polymorphism polymerase chain reaction (PCR-RFLP) method was carried out to amplify the A66G and C524T polymorphism of MTRR and C677T polymorphism of MTHFR genes digested with Hinf1, Xho1 and Nde1 enzymes, respectively. The genotype frequencies of CC, CT and TT of MTRR gene among the studied cases were 43.1%, 40.7% and 16.3%, respectively, compared to 52.8%, 43.2% and 4.0%, respectively among the controls. For the MTRR A66G gene polymorphism, the genotypes frequencies of AA, AG and GG among the cases were 33.3%, 43.9% and 22.8%, respectively, while the frequencies were 49.6%, 42.4% and 8.0%, respectively, among control subjects. The frequencies for CC and CT genotypes of the MTHFR gene were 51.2% and 48.8%, respectively, in VSD patients compared to 56.8% and 43.2% respectively, in control subjects. Apart from MTHFR C677T polymorphism, significant differences were noticed (p < 0.05) in C524T and A66G polymorphisms of the MTRR gene between cases and control subjects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Atherosclerosis is the leading cause of death in hemodialysis patients. These patients are also very prone to Lcarnitine deficiency due to kidney disease. In this clinical trial, we investigated the effect of oral L-carnitine on endothelial function of these patients. Materials ans Methods: We studied 31 adult chronic hemodialysis patients in our center and divided them into two groups. The first group (n = 20) received 1500 mg/dialysis interval (every other day) oral L-carnitine. The control group (n = 11) received placebo for one month. Ultrasonographic measurements of flow mediated dilation and carotid intima-media thickness were performed before and after one month of L-carnitine and placebo therapy. Results: This study showed that after one month of Lcarnitine or placebo therapy there was no significant improvement in flow mediated dilation (p = 0.80 and p = 0.59, respectively) or decrease in carotid intima-media thickness (p = 0.12 and p = 0.50, respectively). Conclusions: Our study revealed that one month of oral L-carnitine therapy did not improve endothelial function in hemodialysis patients. Long-term studies with large sample size using intravenous form and higher doses of the drug are required to clarify the questionable role of L-carnitine in hemodialysis patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study was done to determine the frequency of cardiomyopathy related to Daunomycin in children and adolescents with improved acute lymphoblastic leukemia and its relationship with cardiac troponin-T and cumulative dose of drug. Methods: This cross sectional study was conducted on children and adolescents under age 18 years with improved acute lymphocytic leukemia disease (ALL) and a history of receiving daunomycin who referred to Al-zahra hospital, Iran. People with inclusion criteria based on cumulative dose of daunomycin were divided into two groups. First group of patients were those who received cumulative daunomycin dose fewer than 250 mg/m2 and second group with cumulative dose equal to or greater than 250 mg/m2. In all patients after obtaining consent and taking history, blood levels of cardiac-troponin-T and Shortening Fraction (FS) and Ejection Fraction (EF) indices was measured. Collected data was analyzed by SPSS. Findings: Among 55 patients treated with daunomycin, three patients were diagnosed with cardiomyopathy, all of which were in the second group (P < 0.048). The mean EF in the first group and second group were respectively 65.03+4.26 and 61.4+6.56 (P < 0.02). The mean SF in the first and second group were respectively 34.23+4.19 and 31.92+4 (P < 0.04). Cardiac troponin-T test result was positive in 4 patients from the second group but in the first group there were no positive tests (P < 0.037). There was no significant relationship between cardiomyopathy and increased level of cardiac troponin-T (P = 0.21). Conclusion: Acute lymphocytic leukemia patients treated with daunomycin were at risk for cardiac complications. It is recommended to avoid therapy with a dose more than 250 mg/m2. Since there was not any correlation between cardiac troponin-T level and cardiomyopathy, cardiac troponin-T can not be a reliable marker of delayed cardiotoxicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Medical students are exposed to variety of stresses which may have effects on their education and health. In this situation "student support systems" are necessary. In Medical School of Isfahan University of Medical Sciences for achieving to the goal of supporting and guiding medical students, Tutor Scheme has been organized. In this study efficacy of the tutor scheme and satisfaction of students and tutors is being evaluated. Methods: This cross-sectional study was done in the Medical School of Isfahan University of Medical Sciences. Target population was all the students that were supported by the scheme (466) and all the tutors (42). Information was taken by 2 types of questionnaire that were prepared by the researcher. Results: 93.3% of tutors and 72.6% of students thought that it is necessary to have a tutor but there was significant difference between their point of view (p<0.0001). 51.06% of tutors and 25.5% of students were satisfied or very satisfied by the scheme and there was significant difference between their point of view (p<0.0001). Satisfaction in tutors and students was linked with same issues such as initiation of meetings by the faculty, holding meetings during the year by tutor, including social and personal discussions besides academics, participating in monthly meetings, importance of the regularity of meetings, holding meetings in special times such as pre exams periods, having the choice to select or change tutor, performing workshops and group sessions for tutors and paying attention to encouraging tutors. 28.9% of the students hadn't had any meeting with their tutors and 7.8% that were all guest or displaced students didn't have tutor. Conclusion: tutors and students both think that having tutor is necessary but the low percentage of satisfaction shows that the scheme needs revision and some changes and also needs providing some facilities [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article examines Ottoman responses to Iranians bringing corpses for burial in holy Shi'i sites in Ottoman Iraq, and focuses on questions of sovereignty, frontiers, commerce, and sanitation. Bringing together the Shi'is of both sides of the Ottoman-Iranian frontier, this curious border crossing constituted a major point of contention between the Ottoman Empire and Safavid and Qajar Iran. One of the most persistent religio-economic activities of Middle Eastern history, corpse traffic continued almost unabated until the emergence of cholera as a global health threat. The emergence of cholera and discussions around corpse traffic and pilgrimage to the 'atabat helped transform one of the longest running unresolved issues of the Islamic world: namely, the undefined border between he Ottoman Empire and Iran. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Focuses on the Ottoman Archives, a depository of mostly untapped documentary evidence on nineteenth and early twentieth-century Iranian history. Historical resource for the Qajar Period; Reference to collections besides those already opened in Mahmud Ghahravi's "Catalogue of the Ottoman Archival Documents on the History of Iran."

Background: Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) is a common disease in premature neonates, which could occur in up to 50% of the neonates weighting <1000 g. PDA might induce hemodynamic and respiratory disorders and increase mortality and morbidity. This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of oral ibuprofen and a low dose of intravenous acetaminophen in the management of PDA. Materials and Methods: This randomized double-blind clinical trial was conducted on the preterm neonates with an equal gestational age of <34 weeks and weight of >1000 g with symptomatic PDA, who were admitted in Shahid Beheshti and Al-Zahra Hospitals Affiliated to Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Iran. In total, 40 preterm neonates were examined, 20 of whom received 15 mg/kg/6 h of intravenous acetaminophen for 2 days and 20 infants received 10 mg/kg of intravenous ibuprofen on the 1st day and 5 mg/kg for the next 2 days, and the results include vital signs and echocardiography findings were compared. Results: In the acetaminophen and ibuprofen groups, 16 (80%) and 17 neonates (85%) responded (PDA closure rate) to the treatment, respectively (P = 0.68). Furthermore, acetaminophen and ibuprofen have a similar effect on vital signs. Both drugs did not change in blood pressure, but they reduced the respiratory rate and heart rate after treatment. Conclusion: Low-dose acetaminophen compared to ibuprofen has an equal effectiveness in the closure of PDA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Macronutrients' quality may impact differently on mental health and quality of life (QOL). This study aimed to investigate the potential relationship between the carbohydrate quality index (CQI), fat quality index (FQI), protein quality index (PQI), the affective mental symptoms and QOL among Iranian adults.Methods: The LipoKAP is a cross-sectional study, conducted with 2456 adults in Iran. A validated food frequency questionnaire was used to evaluate usual dietary intakes. A validated Iranian version of the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale was used to assess the severity of anxiety and depression. QOL was assessed by EQ-5D.Result: In the fully adjusted model, participants in the highest tertile of CQI had lower QOL than those in the lowest tertile (OR = 1.35; 95 % CI: 1.06, 1.73). Individuals in the top tertile of FQI (OR = 0.71; 95 % CI: 0.55, 0.91) and PQI (OR = 0.78; 95 % CI: 0.60; 1.01) were less likely to report lower QOL than those in the bottom tertile. An inverse association was found between PQI and depressive symptoms (OR = 0.72, 95 % CI: 0.55, 0.95), but not for CQI and FQI.Limitations: The cross-sectional design of the study and the use of a memory-based dietary tool may limit the generalizability of our findings.Conclusion: Higher PQI was associated with lower risk of depressive symptoms and having a low-quality life. Although CQI and FQI were not related to depressive and anxiety symptoms, higher values of FQI were associated with better QOL, while CQI showed an inverse association. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Previous studies have suggested a significant association between diet quality and mental health. However, a limited number of studies have utilized the Prime Diet Quality Score (PDQS) to examine this association. Additionally, no study has yet compared the PDQS and Healthy Eating Index-2015 (HEI-2015) in terms of their association with depression and anxiety., Aim: This cross-sectional study aimed to investigate the association between diet quality, measured by the PDQS and HEI-2015, and the odds of depression and anxiety in adults., Methods: This study utilized data from the LIPOKAP study, which was conducted between February 2018 and July 2019 in five cities in Iran. We included 1994 adults aged 18 and above who were selected through a multistage cluster sampling method. Participants completed a validated semiquantitative food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) to evaluate their dietary intake. The FFQ was used to calculate the PDQS and HEI-2015. Depression and anxiety levels were determined using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS)., Results: The participants had a mean age of 39.79 ± 13.87 years, with females accounting for 1,041 (52.2%) of the total population. PDQS showed a significant inverse association with the odds of depression (OR = 0.45, 95% CI: 0.28-0.71) and anxiety (OR = 0.40, 95% CI: 0.25-0.62) in the fully adjusted model. Similarly, the highest quartile of HEI-2015 showed a significantly lower odds of depression (OR = 0.60, 95% CI: 0.40-0.90) and anxiety (OR = 0.62, 95% CI: 0.42-0.92) compared to the lowest quartile., Conclusion: Both PDQS and HEI-2015 were associated with a reduced risk of depression and anxiety. However, the PDQS demonstrated a stronger inverse association with these risks compared to the HEI-2015. This suggests that the PDQS could be a more beneficial dietary pattern for preventing depression and anxiety compared to HEI-2015. Further large-scale studies are required to confirm these findings., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

Objective: With rising demand for soft drinks (SDs) in low-income countries, studies examining mental disorders in relation to SDs are rather scarce. Therefore, we aimed to explore this association in a sample of Iranian adults., Methods: This cross-sectional study was carried out within the framework of the multi-centric LIPOKAP project, with 1970 Iranian healthy adults. Dietary intake and symptoms of depression and anxiety were collected using validated, Persian versions of a food frequency questionnaire and a Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), respectively. Artificial juices were considered fruit-flavored carbonated sugar beverages, sugar-sweetened beverages (SSB) included fruit-flavored carbonated sugar beverages and carbonated colas, and soft drinks included SSB and drinks containing non-nutritive sweeteners., Results: The mean age of the participants was 39.8 ± 13.9 years. Compared to lower intake, higher intake of SDs (OR = 1.30, 95 % CI: 1.01, 1.69; P = 0.041), SSBs (OR = 1.30, 95 % CI: 1.00, 1.67; P = 0.045) and artificial juice (OR = 1.63, 95 % CI: 1.24, 2.13; P < 0.001) was associated with higher risk of depression in adjusted model. These associations were sex-specific and more evident in males. No significant association was found between any of the drinks and anxiety risk except for artificial juice in men which was directly associated with anxiety risk (OR = 1.66, 95 % CI: 1.06, 2.61; P = 0.028)., Conclusion: This study found a positive association between SDs, SSBs and artificial juice and depression, but not anxiety. These associations varied between men and women. Prospective cohort studies are warranted to confirm our results and reveal the causal relationship., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest Authors declare that there is no conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2024. Published by Elsevier B.V.)

Introduction: Currently, there are known contributing factors but no comprehensive methods for predicting the mortality risk or intensive care unit (ICU) admission in patients with novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‑19)., Objectives: The aim of this study was to explore risk factors for mortality and ICU admission in patients with COVID‑19, using computed tomography (CT) combined with clinical laboratory data., Patients and Methods: Patients with polymerase chain reaction-confirmed COVID‑19 (n = 63) from university hospitals in Tehran, Iran, were included. All patients underwent CT examination. Subsequently, a total CT score and the number of involved lung lobes were calculated and compared against collected laboratory and clinical characteristics. Univariable and multivariable proportional hazard analyses were used to determine the association among CT, laboratory and clinical data, ICU admission, and in‑hospital death., Results: By univariable analysis, in‑hospital mortality was higher in patients with lower oxygen saturation on admission (below 88%), higher CT scores, and a higher number of lung lobes (more than 4) involved with a diffuse parenchymal pattern. By multivariable analysis, in‑hospital mortality was higher in those with oxygen saturation below 88% on admission and a higher number of lung lobes involved with a diffuse parenchymal pattern. The risk of ICU admission was higher in patients with comorbidities (hypertension and ischemic heart disease), arterial oxygen saturation below 88%, and pericardial effusion., Conclusions: We can identify factors affecting in‑hospital death and ICU admission in COVID-19. This can help clinicians to determine which patients are likely to require ICU admission and to inform strategic healthcare planning in critical conditions such as the COVID‑19 pandemic.

Background and Aim: Congenital heart disease (CHD) affects near 1% of all live births and is considered to be the main reason of morbidity and mortality in early childhood. In this study, we investigated molecular genetics factors associated with Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) using high throughput technologies in the consanguineous families with at least 2 affected individual., Method: This family study started in March 2017 to May 2018 in pediatric cardiovascular research center, Cardiovascular Research Institute, Isfahan, Iran. After obtaining informed consent, we invited families who had at least 2 individuals in one generation or previous generations with familial marriage history and they were included in the study. Genomic DNA was extracted from peripheral blood lymphocytes of the patient and samples were investigated for structural variations such as deletion or duplication in the genome using single nucleotide polymorphism array (SNP array). In the next step, if the SNP array is negative, next generation study will be performed in the propend and after analyzing the raw data and filtering for rare pathogenic variants., Results: In this study, totally 5 families were evaluated. All affected and unaffected individuals of each family included in the pedigree.  This study comprised 14 subjects (9 males and 5 females; 8.92 ± 6.21 years old). Baseline characteristics and clinical data of the study subjects are presented in Table 1. The prevalence of consanguineous marriage is 92.2% among parents, 71.4% among mother grandparents and 28.6% among father grandparents. 64.3 % of our participants have sibling with similar disease. The prevalence of atrial septal defect (ASD), ventricular septal defect (VSD), and arrhythmia and TOF was 7.1%., Conclusion: We found some families with 2 or more CHD and with a high rate of consanguineous marriage and probably suffering from a genetic predisposition. We aim to exam them further with next generation study (NGS) to find any genetic defect and then to exam other CHD's in our region. Key words: gene mutations, children, adolescents, tetralogy of Fallot, family history.

Twin studies are one of the main tools for studying the interaction between genes and the environment in the development of complex diseases such as cancers, cardiovascular diseases and diabetes. The Isfahan Twin Registry (ITR) was launched in Isfahan in 2017 as a pilot study to establish a nationwide twin registry in Iran and aims to obtain comprehensive information about complex diseases and their risk factors from twins and multiples living in Isfahan. ITR will continue to recruit twins and multiples until all twins residing in Isfahan are registered in the registry. Twins are identified from welfare agencies, public health homes, maternity hospitals, Persian Twins Association and the local media. Demographic information, twin similarities, lifestyle, family history of diseases and past medical history are collected using validated questionnaires. Anthropometric measurements and blood pressure are measured by health professionals. Hematology panel, fasting blood sugar, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein, high-density lipoprotein, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase and quantitative C-reactive protein are measured by an automated analyzer. Extra samples are obtained for future studies. For twins aged under 6 years, parents complete the questionnaires for their children and a brief questionnaire for themselves. Currently, 998 persons (395 pairs and 67 multiples) are registered in the ITR and have provided their data. Results of preliminary data analysis are discussed in this article. We plan to carry out longitudinal assessments. ITR can play an important role in future epigenetic, biomarkers and omics studies using the biobank materials.

Our objective was to evaluate and highlight the significance of epigastric tenderness in children and adolescents with chest pain. In a 26-months period, patients who were referred for pediatri cardiology evaluation at Shiraz University of Medical Sciences with chief complaint of chest pain were studied. Patients with epigastric tenderness were evaluated endoscopically by gastroenterologist. Patients who had positive findings on endoscopy were appropriately treated. Since there were no serious findings on cardiac evaluation, no other treatment was necessary. The patients were re-evaluated 4 weeks later. Response to therapy was defined as relief of the initial symptoms as well as epigastric tenderness. One hundred thirty-two patients were referred for evaluation of chest pain during this period. Epigastric tenderness was found in 44 (33.3%) of these patients and endoscopy was performed. Endoscopy showed positive findings in 41 (93.2%). Thirty (75%) of these patients had varying degrees of gastritis. Duodenitis was found in six (13.6%) and gasteroduodenitis in five (11.4%). Esophagitis, which was always associated with gastritis, was seen in five (11.4%). Only three (6.8%) had normal endoscopy. Urease test was positive in three (7.3%) of the specimens. Two of the patients did not return for follow up. From the remaining 39 patients who received gastroenterology treatment, resolution of symptoms was seen in 38 (97.4%). Careful history and physical examination must guide the assessment of children and adolescents referred for evaluation of chest pain. Epigastric tenderness must be used as a reliable sign to initiate a gastrointestinal evaluation.

Background: Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) is the most common malignancy in childhood. With newer drug protocols the five-year survival rate is now close to 80%. Various factors have been reported to be important for prognosis and should be considered when planning, Material/methods: In a cross-sectional study, prognostic variables and the five-year survival rate were analyzed. Data regarding demographic characteristics, family and personal history, manifestations at the time of presentation, therapeutic regimens and outcome were collected from the records of 76 ALL patients in treatment five years prior to the study. Two pathologists performed the staging using the morphology method (L1, L2 and L3)., Results: Fifty-five subjects (72.5%) survived until the end of the study. One subject succumbed to the rapid fatal course of the disease and 20 others passed away due to relapses or infection during follow-up., Conclusions: Among all variables a worse prognosis was associated (p<0.05) with WBC counts greater than 50,000/ml at presentation, relapse in the CNS, and relapse in the bone marrow. When Anthracycline was included in the therapeutic regimen, the effect of chemotherapy was more favorable compared to regimens without Anthracycline (p<0.05). Other variables previously reported to have prognostic value, especially age and sex, were not significant in our study (p>0.05). Other factors which might account for a poorer prognosis included the preponderance of L-2 morphology, difficult access to medical care, decreased compliance of families due to exhausted economic and psychological reserves, and inadequate knowledge about the disease course and treatment.

We determined the prevalence rate of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and anti-hepatitis C virus antibodies (anti-HCV) among 7897 healthy voluntary blood donors in Shiraz, Islamic Republic of Iran. Sera were examined for HBsAg and anti-HCV antibodies using a second-generation enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Positive sera for HBsAg were found in 85 (1.07%) of the individuals and anti-HCV antibodies were found in 47 (0.59%). We compared our results with those of other studies and conclude that the prevalence rate of HBsAg in our area has decreased in the last 2 decades; from being an area of high prevalence, it is now one with moderate-to-low prevalence. Since there are few reports on the seroepidemiology of hepatitis C in the Islamic Republic of Iran, we could not assess the changes in prevalence of hepatitis C.