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Purpose: The primary Purpose of this study is to explore the motivating factors behind students' utilization of the Iranian search engine "Parsijoo."Methodology: Employing a qualitative approach, this research utilized the phenomenological method. Data collection was carried out through semi-structured interviews with a sample of 16 eighth-grade female students from public schools in Tabriz city, selected using purposeful snowball sampling until theoretical saturation was achieved. Data analysis was conducted using Glaser and Straus's coding method to ensure validity and reliability through frequent review and matching.Findings: The study revealed that students are drawn to using the "Parsijoo" search engine due to its ability to retrieve various types of documents, excellent performance in service delivery, and alignment with national culture.Conclusion: Students identified the extensive results provided by "Parsijoo," particularly in academic matters, as a key advantage. They also appreciated the engine's capability to efficiently retrieve all file types and present relevant outcomes. Furthermore, students highlighted the unique features and services offered by "Parsijoo" as contributing positively to their user experience.Value: Promoting education and awareness is crucial in encouraging students to engage with native search engines. To foster lasting usage among this demographic, ongoing evaluations must be conducted on these platforms based on practical experiences, case studies, and user feedback. Conducting qualitative studies like the one presented here can offer valuable insights for enhancing the effectiveness and quality of native search engines.

Background: The expansion of e-learning has made it necessary to pay attention to the quality of the teaching and learning. This study was conducted with the aim of assessing the dimensions of the students’ presence in e-learning based on Community of Inquiry (COI) Framework at the University of Tabriz, Iran.Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 217 undergraduate students of the Department of Educational Science, at the University of Tabriz, Iran, in the months of February to May of the academic year 2020-2021, were selected using simple random method. The community of inquiry framework questionnaire with 34 items in three subscales of teaching presence (13 items), social presence (9 items) and cognitive presence (12 items) which were scored based on a 5-point Likert scale was used to collect the data; its validity was approved by experts, and its reliability was estimated using Cronbach’s alpha (0.94). One-sample t-test and Pearson Product-Moment Correlation was used to analyze the data in SPSS 26.Results: The results showed that teaching (3.83±0.55), social (3.47±0.72) and cognitive presence (3.66±0.53) of students in e-learning was significantly (P

Background: Information literacy is essential for teachers, allowing effective access, evaluation, and use of information in teaching. This study investigated the relationship between information literacy and job performance among primary school teachers in Naqhadeh.Methods: The study employed a correlational design using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). We aimed at examiningng the relationship between information literacy and job performance of primary school teachers during the academic year 2021-2022. The target population consisted of all primary school teachers in Naqhadeh, totaling 512. The sample size was determined to be 230 using Krejcie and Morgan’s table and simple random sampling. A self-administered questionnaire was used, adapted from Chang’s information literacy scale and Patterson’s job performance scale. It included 29 items measuring four dimensions of information literacy (information perception, information selection, information evaluation, and information utilization) and job performance. Items were scored on a five-point Likert scale ranging from 1 (strongly disagree) to 5 (strongly agree). The content validity was verified through literature review and expert feedback. The reliability of the questionnaire was estimated using Cronbach’s alpha coefficient (above 0.7 for all variables). Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) examined the underlying structure of the data. Data were analyzed using SPSS 26 and structural equation modeling (SEM) with Smart PLS3.2.8 software.Results: The results showed that there were significant positive relationships between information perception and job performance (r=0.84, P0.05). Conclusion: The findings suggested that information literacy skills were positively associated with teachers’ job performance. Therefore, it is recommended that the information literacy skills of teachers should be enhanced through training programs and workshops.

Background & Objective: Simulation is one of the new learning methods in medical and nursing education that can lead to useful learning outcomes. This study aims to explain the lived experiences of senior nursing students about education in simulated learning environments. Materials & Methods: This qualitative research was based on the phenomenological approach. To collect data, senior nursing students of both genders were purposefully selected and surveyed using in-depth and semistructured interviews lasting from 40 to 60 min. The interviews continued until theoretical saturation after 15 interviews with the participants. Data were analyzed using Colaizzi’s seven-step method. Data reliability and validity were assessed using the reliability criteria proposed by Lincoln and Guba (1985). Results: In this study, the main themes include learning, support and technical factors, human factors, and advantages. As a new learning method, simulation encounters support, technical, and human barriers that can be overcome to achieve goals such as learning clinical skills, clinical judgment skills, increasing critical thinking, and improving patient safety. Conclusion: Simulation is one of the methods that can develop and improve students' basic skills and help in deepening their learning. Nursing schools can provide the necessary provisions and facilities to improve the quality of curricula by expanding and integrating simulations into nursing curricula.

Background: The present study aimed to identify teaching styles and determine their correlation with autonomous motivation among the faculty members of two universities in Tabriz, Iran. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among 305 faculty members of humanities, basic sciences, engineering, agriculture, and medical sciences departments at Tabriz Universities. The samples were selected through stratified random sampling during the first semester of 2018-19. Research instruments included the Staffordshire Evaluation of Teaching Styles questionnaire, and the Autonomous Motivation for Teaching questionnaire. Data were analyzed using Pearson correlation, MANOVA, and Friedman tests in SPSS v.23. All statistical tests were conducted at a significance level of 0.05. Results: A significant difference was found among faculty members in the "all-round flexible and adaptable", "official formal curriculum", "straight facts, no nonsense", and "big conference" styles (p 0.05). There were positive correlations between external motivation on the one hand, and all-round flexible and adaptable, official formal curriculum, and one-off styles on the other (p

The purpose of the present study is to investigate the relationship between dimensions of attitudes towards science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) with 21st century skills. The population of this study is student-teachers of Allameh Tabatabai Teacher Training University in Urmia. Stratified random sampling was used. The statistical population was 168 persons, and the sample size was 116 persons using Krejcie and Morgan table. The data collection tool is the science, technology, engineering and mathematics attitude scale and 21st century skills questionnaire, both designed by Friday Institute for Educational Innovation (2012) and validated by experts. The reliability of the questionnaires using Cronbach’s alpha was 0.762 and 0.710, respectively. Descriptive statistics and Pearson correlation coefficient, multiple variance analysis and SPSS 26 were used for data analysis. The findings of the study showed that the attitude of student-teacher to mathematics and science are at an average level, but their attitude to design and technology is higher than average. Also, the level of leadership and participation skills are at a moderate level and self-management skills are at a higher than average level. In addition, the results indicate a positive and significant relationship between some components of STEM attitudes and 21st century skills among student-teacher. Furthermore, according to the results of multiple variance analysis test, there is a significant difference between students in different disciplines in some components of STEM attitude.

Abstract: Gender transcends the attributes that are attributed to women and men in the process of sociability of men and women, and, in contrast to the gender, they have a biological and social origin. The gender role of women has been the subject of transitional change throughout history, and as a result, in traditional societies, the status of women has changed. Women as a second sex tend to have stereotypes that are inappropriately proportioned to them and do not weaken their position in the continuum. These stereotypes do not fit well in the popular comics of men and women, and portray women as poor sexes. It is clear that this pervasive perception of women with violence against them is related to stereotypes of sexual harassment and abuse of women in particular. Sexual assault stereotypes are societal messages that tell women about their predetermined sexual orientation about sexual assault, and about the rape, sexual assault, and rape outcomes. In the end, they are silenced by the transgressor.

Background: Considering the importance of ICT engagement in learning environments, it is necessary to have a reliable and valid method of evaluating it among students. ICT Engagement questionnaire (Zylka et al.) has been designed for this purpose. This study aimed to validate that questionnaire in a representative sample of Iranian students. Methods: The Questionnaire was translated into Persian and its face and content validities were assessed by the members of Education faculty at the University of Tabriz, Iran. Its population included the University's faculty members and the students studying in technical and vocational schools in Urmia, Iran. Eight experts were selected from faculty members by means of purposeful sampling for face and content validities, and 370 students were selected by cluster random sampling. The research tool was Zylka et al's ICT Engagement Questionnaire. SPSS 26 was used for data analysis. Results: The students’ ages ranged from 16 to 18 and 38.6% of them were male and 61.4% were female. The reliability of the questionnaire was 0.91 based on the Cronbach’s alpha. The results of exploratory factor analysis revealed that five factors of ICT in Zylka et al's questionnaire were similar to seven factors in the present study, namely positive ICT self-esteem (explained variance=29.87%), self-confidence in ICT (explained variance=6.84%), online exposure (explained variance=4.69%), social exposure (explained variance=3.83%), interest in computers, tablets and mobile phones (explained variance=3.46%), spending time on ICT (explained variance=3.36%), and the negative ICT self-concept (explained variance=3.18%). Conclusion: PCA results revealed that seven factors can affect ICT engagement. In total these seven factors account for 55.19% of the variance in ICT engagement. Validating the questionnaire reveals that the constructs of “ICT engagement” may vary among populations in different countries. This might be due to the cultural differences and disparities between two statistical populations in terms of available facilities and resources.

Introduction: The existence of numerous and sometimes contradictory studies in the field of problem-based learning and academic achievement emphasizes the necessity of doing a combined research. This meta-analysis study was conducted to determine the effect size of problem-based learning with academic achievement. Methods: This meta-analyze study intends to conduct on the effect of problem-based learning on academic achievement. As to meta-analysis, the Hunts and Schmidt approach is employed. Of the 36 studies identified, 23 were analyzed and from web, data (isc, iranmedex, Noormags, SID, Magiran, irandoc, PubMed, EBSCO, worldcat, sciencedirect, Springer, ProQuest and google scholar), between the academic years 2007-2020 was conducted in accordance with research objectives to the study. Results: The results revealed that problem-based learning methods affects student academic achievement. The effect size (0.90) is estimated to be very high based on Cohen's criteria. Generally, the use of problem-based learning methods improves the academic achievement and the transfer of learning to the outside world should be promoted. Conclusion: The results of this research can pave the way for future research in the field of learning and teaching methods.

Background: Nowadays, new technologies as an integral part of the educational setting have created unique opportunities for teachers to apply various instructional and teaching methods to better educate students. This paper aimed at investigating the effect of the flipped classroom method on the nature of science (NOS) and achievement. Methods: This was a pretest-posttest semi-experimental study with control group. The population included all tenth grade female students of Tabriz city in the 2017-2018. The sample size consisted of 45 students of tenth grade selected by cluster sampling method in which 23 of them were in the experimental group and 22 of them were in the control group. Data gathering tools in this study included the questionnaire of NOS (Liang et al, 2008) and a teacher made achievement exam in biology course. Data were analyzed using covariance analysis. Results: Results showed that in the whole group comparison, the mean score of achievement in the experimental group was significantly higher than that in the control group (P=0.02). There was no significant difference on effect of flipped classroom on the NOS between two groups (P=0.07). Conclusion: The Flipped Classroom has led to an increase in learning in students, thus it affects their academic development, but it did not affect students’ nature of science.

Introduction: Hidden curriculum is one of the concepts and topics discussed in the field of curriculum. It has been much considered in education research, but its impacts on the field of higher education have not been seriously taken into account. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate the role of hidden curriculum components in the professional adaptability of students at Tabriz University of Medical Sciences. Methods: This paper is a descriptive, correlational study. The statistical population included all the students of Tabriz University of Medical Sciences in 2017-18 academic year. A sample of 361 was formed using simple random sampling determined by Morgan-Krejcie table. Data collection tools included an 11-component researcher-made hidden curriculum questionnaire (reliability coefficient: 0.97) and Pourkabirian’s two-component professional adaptability questionnaire (reliability coefficient: 0.93). The validity of the questionnaires was confirmed by a number of education sciences faculty members. The collected data were analyzed using one-sample t-test and canonical correlation coefficient. Results: The obtained mean scores in hidden curriculum components and professional adaptability were often higher than the theoretical mean scores. The canonical roots of both variables were statistically significant (correlation coefficient=0.46 for the first root and 0.28 for the second root). The 11 components of hidden curriculum, except evaluation and critical thinking, were significantly related to professional adaptability. The hidden curriculum components explained 27% (in the first canonical root) and 9% (in the second canonical root) of the changes in professional adaptability. Conclusion: The extracted variance indices and overlaps suggest that in the second root, the hidden curriculum components are not a strong predictor of professional adaptability, and that the varying state of professional adaptability cannot be predicted based on these components.

The purpose of this study was to identify learning styles in students and to compare them with the intended curriculum for social studies at fourth, fifth and sixth grades. The Research method was descriptive and analytical surveys. Therefore, according to the nature of the research, there were two populations, samples and sampling method. In the first part, the population were all male and female students of the fourth, fifth and sixth grade of Elementary of West Azerbaijan province (N=145045) in the academic year of 2018-2019. 1961 students (928 boys and 1033 girls) were selected for sample of study by multi-stage cluster sampling. In the second part, the population were all social studies textbooks of the fourth, fifth, and sixth grades with focusing on aims, content, teaching and learning activities and evaluation. All social studies textbooks of the fourth, fifth, and sixth grades were selected for analyzing. The gadering data tools were VARK Learning Styles Questionnaire (1998) and VARK Learning Checklists. Results showed that, the highest were related to multiple learning styles, and the least percentages were related to aural styles in students. Analyzing the curriculum components (aims, content, teaching and learning activities and evaluation) showed that in the fourth grade the style of aural was ranked first and visual style was in fifth. At fifth grade, the style of virtual was ranked first and the multiple-choice style in fifth. Finally, at the sixth grade, the reading / writing style was ranked first and visual style was in fifth. Therefore, the preferred learning style of students were multiple style, but the preferred learning style in social studies curriculum components were the aural style at the fourth and fifth grades and reading / writing style were in the sixth grade.

Background: Wikis are web-based tools and educational technologies that enable students and educators to access general and professional information and knowledge at the national and international levels. Objectives: The aim of this study was to identify factors affecting acceptance and use of educational wikis by post-graduate students of University of Tabriz using Technology Acceptance Model 3 (TAM3). Methods: This correlational study was conducted among 285 post-graduate students of University of Tabriz, who were selected through the random stratified sampling method during 2018 - 2019 academic year. For data collection, a researcher-made questionnaire with 32 items rated based on a 5-point Likert scale was used. Also, for data analysis, structural equation modeling (SEM) via smart PLS 3 and partial least squares (PLS) were used. Results: The results indicated a positive correlation between wiki’s characteristics (P = 0.001, beta = 0.50), performance expectancy (P = 0.001, beta = 0.285) and self-efficiency (P = 0.001, beta = 0.182) and students’ behavioral intention. However, there was a negative correlation between effort expectancy (P = 0.001, beta = -0.241) and behavioral intention. We did not find a significant correlation between social influence, perceived playfulness and self-management learning variables and students’ behavioral intention to use educational wikis. Conclusions: In order to provide a more effective teaching-learning environment in higher education, the use of new technological tools such as educational wikis is necessary for university students in Iran to perform classroom activities.

Nowadays, preschools use multimedia educational software under the influence of information communication technology to enhance learners' learning. Attention to the developmental characteristics of preschool children as a basis for selecting instructional multimedia software increases the effectiveness and efficiency of their use. So, the evaluative research method and the hierarchical analysis process approach were used to select the appropriate educational software. The research population included all of the preschool instructional software packages produced by multimedia companies in Iran. Among them, 12 soft wares were selected as the research sample through available sampling method and they were evaluated using a researcher-made 29 items checklist. Content validity of the research tool was approved by 3 relevant experts, and its reliability was obtained using the consistency ratio for all criteria and software packages (CR

Nematollah ibn-e Mahmood(dead920AH.), known as Sheikh Baba Nakhjavani and Sheikh Alavan, is one of the mystical and literary figures of the 9th century AH. Six mystical works, including "Glasghan-e Raza", are attributed to him. There is insufficient knowledge about his life, works and thoughts. Ancientness of his explanation of Golshan-e Raz of Shabestari, its unintroductionness, its uneditionness, and moreover, Golshan-e Raz's reputation justify the necessity of doing this research. This essay has been done by using the methodology of documentary analysis and descriptive-analytical method . It has introduced Sheikh Baba Nakhjavani and his works briefly. The essay has introduced his Sharh-e Golshin-e Raz and its manuscript in detail, then has analysed its stylistic and contentual features in three levels: linguistic, literary and intellectual level. The results are as follows: Bilingualism(Arabic and Persian combination), Arabism and phrasing the Persian sentences on Arabic syntax, abundance of Arabic words and compounds, special attention to using pure(original) Persian words and compounds, little innovation in the use of words and compounds, the emphasis on figures of diction and being language artificially and the importance of interpreting, are its stylistic characters. The material of the book is, in general, apprehension and inference of commentator from Shabestari's verses, that based on author’s mystical and intuitive experiences.

Abstract Background Because computers are used in many aspects of today’s life, it seems necessary to include them in teaching and assessment processes. Method The aims of this cross-sectional study were to construct a multidimensional valid scale, to identify the factors that influenced the nature of student motivation on Computer Based Testing (CBT), to recognize how students self-regulated their activities around CBT, and to describe the efficiency of autonomous versus controlled situations on motivation. The study was carried out among 246 Iranian Paramedical Students of Tabriz Medical Sciences University, Tabriz, Iran; 2013–2014. The researchers prepared a questionnaire, based on the Self-Determination Theory (SDT), containing 26 items with a five-point Likert scale. It was prepared according to a previous valid questionnaire and by sharing opinions with some students and five professors. The factor analysis was done to perform instructional and exploratory factor analysis. Results The Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin(KMO) measure was performed and variables were correlated highly enough to provide a reasonable basis for factor analysis. The selected 4 factors determined a 60.28% of the variance; autonomy 26.37%, stimulation 14.11%, relatedness10.71%, and competency 9.10%. Conclusion A questionnaire was prepared and validated, based on SDT variables. The results indicated that autonomous extrinsic motivation correlated positively with intrinsic motivation and CBT. There was a general positive attitude towards computer-based testing among students. As students became intrinsically motivated through the promotion of autonomous regulation, CBT was recommended as a proper test mode.

Introduction: In the broad sense life-long learning thought to be a multi-dimensional process which in addition to the economic and social benefits, also give rise to personal development. This study was conducted to evaluate the attitudes of medical students towards life-long learning at Tabriz University of Medical Science in the academic year 2016-2017. Methods: The method of study was descriptive-research. A life-long learning questionnaire from Knapper and Cropleywas used to collect data. The research sample included 140 people who selected accidentally among medical students of Tabriz University of Medical Science. SPSS23 software and One-sample Test and Hotelling’s T Test were used to analyze the data. Results: In the four components of Goal setting(0/55±0/50), Application of knowledge and skills(1/02±0/60), Self-direction and evaluation (0/66±0/54) and Adaptable learning strategies the difference between the hypothesized mean (zero) and the obtained meanwere significant (p=0/0001).but in the Locating informationthere is no significant difference (p=0/702). Also the mean of male students in two component locating information and adaptable learning strategies were more than mean of female (p=0/0001). Conclusion: Medical students have a positive attitude toward lifelong learning components. The highest average is the application of knowledge and skills and the lowest component of information search. Given the nature of the practical nature of medical courses, the average of the application of knowledge and skill is greater than other components. It is worthwhile to note that students have the least amount of information searching component and that it is necessary to pay more attention to knowledge management skills and knowledge sharing in the curriculum.

Background & Objective: Attention to the necessary skills in time and place are among the most important issues in the evaluation of the quality of academic education. The present study aimed to evaluate the access of students to the 21st century general skills at Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Iran. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional, descriptive study was conducted on 300 medical students, who were selected via simple random sampling. Data were collected using the questionnaire developed by Mahmoodi and Mola, which its validity has been confirmed based on expert opinions, and the reliability has been established at the Cronbach’s alpha of 0.90. Results: The general skills of the 21st century in the medical students were at an average level in the cognitive and affective domains considering a theoretical average of 3 (P

Background and Objective: The rapid expansion of knowledge and information, fragmentation and dispersion of various sectors of traditional curricula, and little connection with the real world have made learners pay more attention to the issue of integration in curricula. The aim of this study was to compare the viewpoints of academic staff of Tabriz University of Medical Sciences with the University of Tabriz about integration steps. Materials and Methods: This study is descriptive -survey. The population of study were 650 academic staff employed at University of Tabriz and 324 members of the academic staff at the Tabriz University of Medical Sciences. The sample for the study was randomly selected, 242 academic staff from Tabriz University and 177 from Tabriz University of Medical Sciences based on Morag sampling Table. Data were collected using a researcher- made questionnaire. Data were analyzed by descriptive statistics (Mean and Standard deviation indicators) and inferential statistics (MANOVA) through SPSS 22. Results: MANOVA test Results showed that there was a big gap between the opinion of the academic staff of Tabriz University of Medical Sciences and the University of Tabriz on the steps of awareness, harmonization, nesting, multi-disciplinary and inter- disciplinary are a significant difference. The mean of academic staff of Tabriz University of Medical Sciences in the mentioned steps was greater than the mean of the University of Tabriz academic staff. Results, on the other hand, showed that the gap was not significant between the two regarding steps of isolation, temporal co-ordination, sharing, correlation, complementary program and trans-disciplinary. Conclusion: The results showed that the academic staff of Tabriz University of Medical Sciences paid more attention to the steps of awareness, harmonization, nesting, multi-disciplinary and inter- disciplinary than those of Tabriz University. Therefore, more attention should be paid to integration in medical curricula.

Purpose: To report the outcomes of a simple and effective office-based procedure for the correction of astigmatism after deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty (DALK). Methods: This study enrolled 24 consecutive keratoconic eyes that developed an intolerable amount of graft astigmatism after DALK. The location and extension of steep semi-meridians were determined using corneal topography. Office-based relaxing incision procedures were performed at the slit-lamp biomicroscope using a 27-gauge needle. Relaxing incisions were made at the donor-recipient interface on one side of the steepest meridian with an arc length of 45° to 60° and an initial depth of approximately 70–80% of the corneal thickness. Topography was performed after 30–40 minutes and the initial incision was enhanced in depth and length. If an acceptable amount of astigmatism was not achieved, another incision was created at the opposite semi-meridian during the same session. Results: Mean follow-up period was 13.1 ± 7.4 months. Mean preoperative best spectacle corrected visual acuity was 0.26 ± 0.14 logMAR, increasing to 0.22 ± 0.09 logMAR after the procedure (P = 0.20). Mean spherical equivalent refractive error increased from − 4.64 ± 3.06 diopters (D) preoperatively to −6.06 ± 3.15 D postoperatively (P = 0.01). Mean keratometric astigmatism was reduced by 2.95 ± 3.43 D and 5.16 ± 2.97 D measured using subtraction and vector analysis methods, respectively (P < 0.001). Microperforation occurred in one eye, which spontaneously improved with no sequelae. Conclusion: Office-based relaxing incision is a safe and effective procedure for the treatment of corneal graft astigmatism after DALK. This approach effectively decreases the need for the more costly alternative in the operating room.

Background: Patellar mal tracking is responsible for pain and disability in patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS). Patellar kinesio taping may have different effects on short and long term usage. The aim of this study is to compare the effect of short term and long term patellar kinesio taping in patellar position on women with patellofemoral pain syndrome using Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). Methods: Thirty women with a mean age of 32.2 ± 6.18 years with one year history of PFPS participated in this study. All participants provided written, informed consent. MRI was taken three times from participant’s patellofemoral joint: 1) Without taping, 2) Immediately after taping in the first session, 3) After 10 sessions of taping. The effectiveness of the interventions was determined by measuring the patellofemoral congruence angle (PFCA), lateral patellofemoral angle (LPFA), and lateral patellar displacement (LPD) on MRI images. Results: Statistical analysis showed that utilizing kinesio taping in short time and after 10 sessions, significantly changed PFCA and LPD – except for PFCA after 10 sessions. Moreover, taping didn’t have any significant effect to alter LPFA. Conclusion: In short term, mechanical effects of kinesio taping influenced the patella position but in long term, neuromuscular effects may be more effective than each one separately to alter patella position.

One of the key issues in assessing of curricula quality is attention to required skills. This study aimed to assess the achievement of 21th -century basic skills in senior undergraduate and postgraduate engineering students of Tabriz University. The method of study was descriptive research. 414 engineering students of bachelor's and master's degree were selected by randomly. A researcher made questionnaire was used to collect data. The validity of instrument based on experts opinion and reliability through Cronbach's (alpha) coefficient (0.92) was approved. The results showed that the affective domain of bachelor's and master's curricula were above the predetermined average, but undergraduate curricula in the domains of cognitive and socio-cultural skills are lower than average and failed to fulfill goals addressed by 21 century, The curriculum of postgraduate (master's degree) in the domains of cognitive and socio-cultural skills are somewhat higher than average and were relatively favorable. One interesting finding was that in both curricula the ability to share knowledge was below the average and the sharing knowledge was not focused in teaching and learning process.

Introduction: Curriculum integration is a newly emerged topic in medical education. Given the importance of integration in improving the quality of education, the aim of this study was to examine the extent and order of attention to steps of curriculum integration in Tabriz University of Medical Sciences. Methods: This descriptive-survey research was carried out in 2015 on a sample of 177 faculty members of Tabriz University of Medical Sciences who were selected through cluster sampling method. Data were collected using a researcher-made questionnaire whose validity and reliability had been confirmed. Data were analyzed by means of descriptive statistics and Friedman test. Results: Views of faculty members indicated that there was a significant difference between the extent and order of attention to integrations steps in terms of ranking (X2=744.421, P= 0.0001). The highest mean scores and standard deviations of integration steps were respectively related to step-4 nesting (4.03±0.76), step-1 isolation (3.59±0.71), step-2 awareness (3.26±0.92), step-3 harmonization (2.99±1.13), step-9 multidisciplinary (2.98±1.18), step-8 complementary (2.26±1), step-11 transdisciplinary (2.23±1), step-10 interdisciplinary (2.23±0.87), step-7 correlation (2±0.88), step-6 sharing (1.92±0.91), step-5 temporal harmonization (1.63± 0.59). Conclusion: Results showed that the highest and lowest mean scores were related to the fourth (nesting) and fifth (temporal harmonization) steps respectively. It therefore seems that moving up to higher steps of integration requires close cooperation of faculty members (curriculum presenters) and curriculum experts and planners (curricularists), and full power of educational departments for designing and developing curriculum according to temporal and spatial requirements.

Introduction: Interpersonal skills are among the basic skills in social life and are essential for students due to the numerous challenges facing them. The aim of this study was to compare the dimensions of students’ interpersonal skills in Tabriz University and Tabriz University of Medical Sciences. Methods: This descriptive study was performed on 770 students of Tabriz University and Tabriz University of Medical Sciences who were selected by simple random sampling. Data collection tool was Fetro’s interpersonal skills assessment questionnaire. It has 65 five-point Likert scale items and measures four domains of development and maintenance of communication, communication skills, conflict resolution and empathy. Data were analyzed using MANOVA. Results: A number of 750 questionnaires were completed and analyzed by 423 students of Tabriz University and 327 students of Tabriz University of Medical Sciences. The students of two universities had a significant difference in interpersonal skills (p0.05). Conclusion: Results showed that the interpersonal skills of Tabriz University students are more favorable than students of Tabriz University of Medical Sciences. It is therefore recommended that interpersonal skills should be further enhanced in medical universities.

This study aims at investigating the effect of using cooperative learning (jigsaw2) and traditional learning on the reading comprehension achievement. In the present study, experimental research model consisting of pre-test, post-test with a control group was applied. The sample of the study consisted of 64 participants in grade three in Bonab high schools. To determine the effect of cooperative learning method on achievement in reading comprehension and the significance of difference between the scores of groups at 0.05 level were applied by analysis of covariance. the results of the analysis of covariance shows the effect of Jigsaw 2 ( control and experiment) on reading comprehension in post-test. The differences between means based on group members ( control and experiment) in post-test stage (the significant level α = .05) is significant. The amount of interaction effect is 18%. So these results confirm that Jigsaw2 learning method has significant effect on experiment group. Additionally, cooperative learning appeared to be more favourable for overcrowded classes. furthermore, the results indicated that cooperative learning enhanced student- student interaction.

Purpose: To compare clinical and confocal scan outcomes after Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK) performed for Fuchs′ endothelial dystrophy (FED) versus pseudophakic bullous keratopathy (PBK). Methods: This retrospective comparative study included 47 consecutive eyes of 39 patients with the diagnosis of FED (n = 29, group 1) or PBK (n = 18, group 2) that underwent DSAEK. Clinical outcomes were compared between the study groups. At the final follow-up examination, confocal microscopy was used to measure and compare central corneal and graft thickness as well as endothelial cell density and morphology between the two groups. Results: Mean age at the time of surgery was 65.2 ± 11.8 and 69.4 ± 12.5 years in groups 1 and 2, respectively (P = 0.27). Follow-up period was 23.6 ± 14.0 months in group 1 and 25.6 ± 15.7 months in group 2 (P = 0.79). Postoperative best spectacle-corrected visual acuity was significantly better in group 1 than in group 2 until postoperative month 6. Afterwards, the two study groups were comparable in this regard. At the final follow-up examination, spherical equivalent refractive error was + 0.39 ± 1.46 diopters (D) in group 1 and + 0.80 ± 1.47 D in group 2 (P = 0.45). Postoperative keratometric astigmatism was 1.02 ± 0.83 D and 2.36 ± 0.67 D, respectively (P < 0.001). Mean central graft thickness was 98.0 ± 33.3 μm in group 1 and 107.6 ± 28.0 μm in group 2 (P = 0.45). No statistically significant difference was observed between the two groups in terms of the postoperative endothelial cell density. Conclusion: The outcomes of DSAEK surgery were comparable between FED and PBK. All grafts were clear despite the lower than normal endothelial cell counts.

Sunshine hours rate with its effect on determination of solar radiation rate is the main factor of controlling life, climate and other biological activities on the earth, especially in arid and semiarid zones. The purpose of this research is to offer an image about anomalies and trends of sunshine hours rate in Iran, and to estimate its values based on the latest data. For this purpose, the country area was zoned for annual and seasonal sunshine hours by using 87 synoptic stations data in a 20-years period (1986 to 2005) via cluster analysis and ArcGIS software capabilities. For confirming the zonation, Sidak and One-Way ANOVA parametric tests or Mann-Whitney and Kruskal-Wallis non-parametric tests were used. In addition, multivariate and simple linear regression equations were used for estimating sunshine hour’s numbers and recognizing their temporal trends respectively. The results of the research showed that the mean sunshine hours increase and their variability decrease from the north to the south and from the west to the east of country until the coefficient of variation (CV) values of annual sunshine hours, contrary to the spatial distribution of them reach to the highest rates in the Caspian sea coasts and the lowest ones in the central deserts. Sunshine hours rates show either significant increasing trends or essentially non-significant trends in the whole country. However, even one case of significant decreasing trend has not been observed in the country. The mean increasing amount of trends in the country is 16.6 hours per year. Statistical model shows that except in the summer, the rule of the latitude in spatial distribution of sunshine hours is salient. By using this model, sunshine hour’s values in the country were estimated with good precision based upon latitude and elevation values.

Background Computer-based testing (CBT) is gaining in popularity in educational settings, and students seem more inclined to take tests delivered via computers. This study aimed at examining factors affecting CBT. Methods This descriptive study intended to explore factors which might affect medical computer-based testing (CBT). Accordingly, a researcher-made questionnaire (alpha = 0.86) was administered to 264 conveniently selected medical students enrolled in general English language courses at Qazvin University of Medical Sciences in Spring 2016. The validity of the questionnaire was confirmed seeking experts’ opinions. Data were analyzed using SPSS (version 23). Results The results of exploratory factor analysis showed that six factors could affect CBT. These six factors explained 55.91% of the variance. Among the factors, self-esteem accounted for the highest variance (26.34%), while cost-effectiveness accounted for the lowest variance (4.73%). Conclusions These findings suggest that CBT may motivate medical language learners, building their self-esteem and identity. Therefore, they may prefer it to pencil-and-paper tests because of the higher accuracy of CBT.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the visual outcomes and complications of deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty (DALK) using the big-bubble technique in patients with keratoconus. METHODS: In this case series, 104 eyes of 99 patients with moderate to advanced keratoconus underwent DALK. All subjects were contact lens intolerant or had unacceptable spectacle-corrected visual acuity. DALK was performed using the big-bubble technique. Full thickness donor corneas devoid of Descemet's membrane (DM) were sutured to the recipient bed. Best spectacle-corrected visual acuity (BSCVA), refractive status, and intra- and postoperative complications were evaluated. RESULTS: Patients were male in 62.5%. Mean age of patients was 26.2±7.79 (range 15-46) years at the time of DALK and were followed for 23.07±8.1 (range 9-42) months. Mean BSCVA increased from 1.23±0.4 logMAR to 0.26±0.2 logMAR at final follow-up (P < 0.001). Postoperative mean spherical equivalent refractive error and refractive and keratometric astigmatism were -3.41±3.1 D, 3.07±2.4 D, and 3.64±2.2 D, respectively. Bared DM was achieved in 86 (82.7%) eyes. Main complications encountered included filamentary keratitis (19.2%), non-endothelial graft rejection (14.4%), and suture abscess (10.6%). CONCLUSIONS: DALK using the big-bubble technique appears to be a safe and effective procedure in patients with keratoconus.

PURPOSE: To determine the incidence of steroid induced ocular hypertension following myopic photorefractive keratectomy (PRK). METHODS: Myopic PRK was performed on 506 eyes of 269 patients. Preoperatively, spherical equivalent refractive error ranged from -1.00 to -5.00 diopters (D) and cylinder was less than 4 D. Baseline intraocular pressure (IOP) before PRK and at different time intervals after the procedure was measured by Goldmann applanation tonometry. IOP readings were corrected according to central corneal thickness as measured by Orbscan pachymetry. For the purpose of the study, corrected IOP > 21 mmHg was considered as ocular hypertension. RESULTS: Ocular hypertension developed in 40 (7.9%) eyes overall, which occurred in 16 eyes (40%) 2-3 weeks postoperatively (mean IOP=23.5±3.0mmHg), in 20 eyes (50%) after 4-6 weeks (mean IOP=25.1±4.2 mmHg) and in 4 eyes (10%) 8-12 weeks following PRK (mean IOP=29.0±3.1 mmHg). There was no correlation between the level of IOP rise and preoperative spherical equivalent refractive error. IOP recovered to normal in all eyes after discontinuation of topical steroids and initiation of anti-glaucoma medications. Mean duration of IOP normalization was 28.5±27.7 (range 7-108) days and no instance of steroid-induced glaucoma was observed in any patient. CONCLUSION: Topical steroids may cause ocular hypertension following PRK. Early detection, prompt treatment and close follow-up are recommended. We suggest measuring IOP in post-PRK patients no later than 10 to 14 days after initiation of corticosteroid treatment.

Seeds of 28 elite walnut genotypes were collected from five sites to study their genetic variation. Ten seeds were selected randomly from each genotype to measure their quantitative characteristics, including grand and small diameter, weight, kernel weight and percentage and shell weight and thickness. The data were analysed, using the Nested Design Model. The results showed that there were significant differences between the genotypes for their quantitative characteristics. The genotypes from Marivan and Paveh were the superior for their highest kernel weight and percentage and their lowest shell weight and thickness. There were significant and positive correlations between average grand diameter with average small diameter, seed weight, kernel weight, shell weight and negative and significant correlation with average kernel percentage. The correlation between average small diameter and average seed weight, kernel weight and percentage, shell weight was positively significant. The correlation between average seed weight, and average kernel weight and percentage, shell weight and thickness was positively significant. There were significant and positive correlations between average kernel weight and average shell weight and kernel percentage. The correlation between average shell weight and average shell thickness was significant and positive, whereas its correlation with average kernel percentage was significant and negative. There is also significant and negative correlation between average shell thickness and average kernel percentage. The cluster analysis was applied to investigate the walnut populations’ similarity, based on the genotype seed characteristics. The most similar populations were from Saghez and Sanandaj sites.

PURPOSE: To describe the clinical and pathological features of a case of hydrogel intraocular lens (IOL) calcification. CASE REPORT: A 48-year-old man underwent explantation of a single-piece hydrophilic acrylic intraocular lens in his left eye because of decreased visual acuity and milky white opalescence of the IOL. The opacified lens was exchanged uneventfully with a hydrophobic acrylic IOL. Gross examination of the explanted IOL disclosed opacification of the optic and haptics. Full-thickness sections of the lens optic were stained with hematoxylin and eosin (H&E), von Kossa and Gram Tworts'. Microscopic examination of the sections revealed fine and diffuse basophilic granular deposits of variable size within the lens optic parallel to the lens curvature but separated from the surface by a moderately clear zone. The deposits were of high calcium content as evident by dark brown staining with von Kossa. Gram Tworts' staining disclosed no microorganisms. CONCLUSION: This report further contributes to the existing literature on hydrogel IOL calcification.

The aim of this study is to compare three modes of femoral fixation, namely Aperfix, Rigidfix and Endobutton, in anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. 120 patients were randomly assigned to three groups, each consisting of 40 patients, and each group was treated by one of the above mentioned methods of femoral fixation. All patients were examined prior to and 24 months after surgery, and they were compared for anterior tibial displacement using the Lysholm score and KT-1000. The three modes of femoral fixation were not significantly different in terms of time of surgery. In the Endobutton group, the Lysholm score rose from 63.21±18.59 prior to ACL reconstruction to 90.64±9.47 after the surgery, while it rose from 65.72±18.74 to 96.22±5.35 in the Aperfix group and from 69.21±17.45 to 90.64±9.47 in the Rigidfix group. Anterior tibial displacement was 3.96±1.58 mm for Endobutton, 4.28±1.48 mm for Rigidfix and 4.03±1.79 mm for Aperfix. Aperfix was indicated to yield a better outcome in terms of instant stability and general results.

Despite the frequent occurrence of heat waves in the Middle East, there is a lack of evidence regarding the overall estimates for the effect of heat waves on mortality in this region. This study aimed to review the effect of exposure to heat and cold waves and daily cause-specific mortality. Four electronic databases were searched. The titles, abstracts, and full-texts of the articles were carefully reviewed by two researchers. Once eligible studies were identified, the required data were extracted. Separate meta-analyses were conducted based on gender, age group, and health endpoint combinations. According to the meta-analysis, heat waves had a statistically significant effect on all-cause mortality with an RR of 1.23 (CI 95%: 1.08, 1.39). Cardiovascular mortality significantly increased in heat waves with an RR of 1.08 (CI 95%: 1.05, 1.10). However, the increase in respiratory mortality was not statistically significant. Compared to young people (age < 65 years old) and women, elderly and men were more vulnerable to heat waves with RRs of 1.31 (95% CI: 1.05, 1.57) and 1.33 (95% CI: 1.08, 1.58), respectively. This study can be beneficial in developing response or adaptation plans for heat waves. Future studies should focus on other specific health endpoints like ischemic heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases, etc., and other outcomes such as hospitalization and emergency visits., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

Introduction: Previous studies have compared various technology-based devices, such as ultrasonography (USG), near-infrared (NIR), and transilluminator (TI), with standard care (SC) to facilitate peripheral intravenous cannulation (PIVC) in pediatric patients. This study aims to investigate the efficacy of these interventions on the first-attempt success rate (FASR) of PIVC in pediatric patients with difficult intravenous access (DIVA) using network meta-analysis (NMA)., Methods: We conducted a comprehensive literature search in databases to identify randomized clinical trials comparing the effects of different devices on the FASR of PIVC from inception until August 2023. Pooled relative risks with 95% credible intervals were estimated using pairwise and network meta-analysis with random effects. To rank the efficacy of devices, we calculated the probabilities of the surface under the cumulative ranking curve (SUCRA)., Results: A total of 18 studies were included in the final analysis. The results of pairwise meta-analysis showed that the use of devices increased the FASR for PIVC by 13% (RR: 1.13, 95% CI: [0.98, 1.30]) compared to SC. The ranking of interventions based on efficacy from highest to lowest was as follows: USG (SUCRA: 1), NIR (SUCRA: 0.6), SC (SUCRA: 0.3), and TI (SUCRA: 0.1), with a very low confidence estimate., Conclusion: Based on our findings, the prioritization of device usage to increase the FASR of PIVC in pediatric patients with DIVA is as follows: USG, NIR, SC, and TI, respectively. However, due to inconsistencies in the network, existence of an overall high risk of bias in the included studies, and very low confidence estimate, further clinical trials are required., Competing Interests: Declaration of conflicting interestsThe author(s) declared no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article.

Peripheral venous catheter placement (PVCP) is difficult for children due to the small diameter of their veins in adipose tissue. The transilluminator device (TD) is proposed as the effective method for PVCP. Therefore, this meta-analysis aimed to assess the effect of TD on first attempt success rate (FASR), mean the number of attempts (MNA), and mean duration of successful PVC placement (MDSPP) in children. In a systematic review and meta-analysis, an extensive search of online databases including PubMed, Scopus, Science Direct, Web of sciences, Cochrane, Clinical trial.gov, ProQuest, and Google scholar search engine was conducted. Keywords were combined and searched from the earliest records up to December 2021. The current meta-analysis was performed using STATA V.14.0 software. Six studies (four RCTs and two non-RCTs design) were included in the present meta-analysis. Analysis showed using of TD significantly led to FASR to 34% in studies with RCTs design (RR = 1.34; CI = 1.18-1.53) although, non-RCT studies did not indicate it (RR: 0.95; CI = 0.50-1.79). Also, one RCT (WMD = -0.24; CI = -0.4 -0.08) and two non-RCTs 0.05 (WMD = -0.05; 95% CI = -0.46-0.37) reported the MNA. Two RCTs (WMD: -24.30; CI = -53.50-4.89) and one non-RCT (WMD: -295.20; CI = -359.34 to -231.06) found TD decreased MDSSP. RCTs and non-RCTs studies showed different results in terms of some outcomes. Based on the results of four RCTs studies, the use of TD significantly increased the FASR of PVCP. The results of two non-RCTs also showed TD insignificantly decreased the FASR of PVCP. More evidence (RCT design) is required for decision-making about the effectiveness of TD on successful PVCP., Competing Interests: Declaration of conflicting interestsThe author(s) declared no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article.

Background: Several studies have evaluated the effects of lavender essential oil on the anxiety of hemodialysis (HD) patients, but most of them did not estimate the pooled effect size. The current systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted to evaluate the effects of lavender on anxiety and fatigue among HD patients., Methods: Eligible studies were selected based on the PRISMA steps and protocol. Literature was retrieved from PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus databases, Cochrane, ClinicalTrials.gov, and Google Scholar Search Engines until Sep 2022. The risk of bias and analysis were evaluated using version 2 of the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool and STATA v.14 software, respectively. Effect sizes were pooled using random effect models., Results: Nine studies were included. Lavender oil significantly reduced the average anxiety of HD patients compared to the control group (SMD: -2.51, 95% CI: [-3.56, -1.45], Z=4.67, P <0.001, I 2 :89.9%). Also, it significantly reduced the average fatigue compared to the control group (SMD: -1.56, 95% CI: [-2.49, -0.63], Z=3.29, P =0.001, I 2 :92.2%). Subgroup analysis indicated controversial results regarding session frequency and drop number of lavender oil., Conclusion: Using Lavender oil significantly reduced fatigue and anxiety in HD patients., (Copyright© 2024 Firooz et al. Published by Tehran University of Medical Sciences.)

In this study, TiO 2 nanoparticles were employed as a photocatalyst for the degradation of tetracycline (TC) under visible light irradiation. The TiO 2 nanoparticles were decorated on natural pyrite (TiO 2 /NP) and characterized using XRD, FTIR, and SEM-EDX methods. This study evaluated the impacts of various operational parameters such as pH, catalyst dosage, initial TC concentration, and light intensity on TC removal. The findings revealed that under optimal conditions (pH 7, catalyst: 2 g/L, TC: 30 mg/L, and light intensity: 60 mW/cm 2 ), 100% of TC and 84% of TOC were removed within 180 min. The kinetics of TC elimination followed a first-order model. The dominant oxidation species involved in the photocatalytic elimination of TC was found to be · OH radicals in the TiO 2 /NP system. The reuse experiments showed the high capability of the catalyst after four consecutive cycles. This study confirmed that the TiO 2 /NP system has high performance in photocatalytic TC removal under optimized experimental conditions., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

Introduction: Pain experienced during the insertion of a catheter into the arteriovenous fistula (AVF) and restless legs syndrome (RLS) are prevalent issues among Hemodialysis (HD) patients. The primary objective of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to consolidate the findings from randomized clinical trial (RCT) studies examining the impact of aromatherapy with lavender on the pain associated with AVF catheter insertion and RLS in HD patients., Methods: A systematic search was conducted on PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Cochrane, Embase, ClinicalTrials.gov, and Google Scholar search engine from inception to August 1, 2022, using keywords extracted from Medical Subject Headings, such as "Aromatherapy", "Lavender", "Arteriovenous fistula", "Pain", "Restless legs syndrome", and "Hemodialysis"., Results: Finally, eleven articles were included in this systematic review and meta-analysis. The results showed that aromatherapy reduced the average pain of catheter insertion in AVF compared to the control group (Standard Mean Difference: -1.60, 95% Confidence Interval: -2.32 to -0.87, Z=4.32, I 2 :90.3%, P<0.001). Also, aromatherapy massage reduced the average severity of RLS compared to the control group, which was statistically significant (Weighted Mean Difference: -13.21, 95% Confidence Interval: -17.50 to -8.91, Z=6.03, I 2 :93.0%, P<0.001). Also, the subgroup analysis showed that lavender in the intervention group significantly decreased the pain intensity compared to the "no intervention" group (P<0.001), yet it was not significant compared to the placebo group (P=0.12)., Conclusion: In summary, the findings indicate a notable reduction in catheter insertion pain in AVF and relief from RLS among HD patients through the use of lavender essential oil. As a result, future research is encouraged to include a comparison of lavender's effects with those of a placebo group., Competing Interests: The authors declare that there is no conflict of interest.

Non-accidental burns (NABs) in children had some adverse effects, such as severe burns, requiring skin grafting, and mortality. Previous studies reported NABs in the form of neglect, suspected abuse, and child abuse. Also, different statistics were estimated for the prevalence of NABs in children. Therefore, the current study aimed to comprehensively review and summarise the literature on the prevalence of NABs in children. Also, factors related to NABs as a secondary aim were considered in this review. Keywords combined using Boolean operators and searches were performed in international electronic databases, such as Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science. Only studies in English were considered from the earliest to 1 March 2023. The analysis was performed using STATA software version 14. Finally, 29 articles were retrieved for the quantitative analysis. Results found that the prevalence of child abuse, suspected abuse, neglect, 'child abuse or suspect abused', and 'abuse, suspect abused, or neglect' was 6% (ES: 0.06, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.05-0.07), 12% (ES: 0.12, 95% CI: 0.09-0.15), 21% (ES: 0.21, 95% CI: 0.07-0.35), 8% (ES: 0.08, 95% CI: 0.07-0.09), and 15% (ES: 0.15, 95% CI: 0.13-0.16) among burns victims, respectively. Also, factors related to NABs are categorised into age and gender, agent and area of burns, and family features. Considering the results of the current study, planning for rapid diagnosis and designing a process to manage NABs in children is necessary., (© 2023 The Authors. International Wound Journal published by Medicalhelplines.com Inc and John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Burn injuries, as a major public health problem, can lead to high morbidity and mortality. Burns is considered as one of the most devastating injuries globally and the fourth most common injury after traffic accidents, falls and interpersonal violence. Burn injuries can affect human life, such as physical and mental health, functional skills, and performance. Changes in appearance, social isolation, stress, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, unemployment, financial burden and family problems can occur in these patients. These burn complications can be exacerbated without adequate social support. This systematic review evaluated burn patients' social support and related factors. A systematic search was performed on the international electronic databases such as Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science and Persian electronic databases such as Iranmedex, and Scientific Information Database using keywords extracted from Medical Subject Headings such as 'Burns', 'Social support', 'Perceived social support' and 'Social care' from the earliest to 30 April 2022. The quality of the included studies in this review was assessed using the appraisal tool for cross-sectional studies (AXIS tool). A total of 1677 burn patients were included in this review from 12 studies. Mean score of social support in burn patients based on multidimensional scale of perceived social support, Phillips's social support questionnaire, social support questionnaire, social support scale and Norbeck social support questionnaire were 5.04 (SD = 1.59) of 7, 22.06 (SD = 3.05), 78.20 (SD = 15.00) of 95, 82.24 (SD = 13.70) and 4.14 (SD = 0.99), respectively. Factors such as income, educational attainment, burn surface area, reconstructive surgery, quality of life, self-esteem, socialisation, posttraumatic growth, spirituality, and ego resilience had a significant positive relationship with social support of burns patients. Social support in patients with burn had a significant negative relationship with factors such as psychological distress, having children, life satisfaction, neuroticism and post-traumatic stress disorder. Overall, patients with burns had moderate levels of social support. Therefore, it is recommended that health policymakers and managers make it easier for burn patients to adapt to burns by providing psychological intervention programs and the social support needed by burn patients., (© 2023 The Authors. International Wound Journal published by Medicalhelplines.com Inc and John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

This systematic review aimed to examine the knowledge of caregivers regarding pressure ulcer (PU) prevention. A thorough, methodical search was conducted from the earliest date to February 1, 2023 using keywords extracted from Medical Subject Headings such as "Caregivers", "Knowledge", and "Pressure ulcer" in various international electronic databases such as Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science, and Persian electronic databases such as Iranmedex and Scientific Information Database. The quality of the studies included in this systematic review was evaluated using an appraisal tool for cross-sectional studies (AXIS tool). In total, 927 caregivers participated in the eight studies. The average age of the participants was 40.50 (SD = 12.67). Among the participants, 61.87% were women. The average caregiver's knowledge of PU prevention was 53.70 (SD = 14.09) out of 100, which suggests a moderate level of knowledge. Factors such as level of education, age, occupation, information about PUs, attitude, and practice had a significant positive relationship with caregivers' knowledge related to the prevention of PUs. Knowledge had a significantly negative relationship with age. In addition, marital status, type of relationship, age, gender, occupation, level of education, and inpatient wards had a significant relationship with caregivers' knowledge regarding PUs prevention. Therefore, managers and policymakers in the medical field can help increase caregivers' knowledge by providing an online or in-person educational platform relevant to PU prevention., (© 2023 The Authors. International Wound Journal published by Medicalhelplines.com Inc and John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

This systematic review aims to examine the knowledge of medical science students about burn first aid. A comprehensive, systematic search was performed in different international electronic databases, such as Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science, and Persian electronic databases such as Iranmedex, and Scientific Information Database (SID) using keywords extracted from Medical Subject Headings such as "Knowledge", "First aid", "Medical science student" and "Burn" from the earliest to February 1, 2023. The quality of the studies included in this systematic review was evaluated by using the appraisal tool for cross-sectional studies (AXIS tool). Thirteen studies had a total of 5046 students studying medical sciences. Among them, 62.24% were female and 77.67% were medical students. The studies included in this systematic review were conducted in Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, Syria, Egypt, and Malaysia. Medical science students' average knowledge of first aid for burns is 56.92 out of 100, which is considered to be a moderate level of knowledge. Factors such as the experience of first aid training, academic year, clinical experience, and economic status had a significant positive relationship with the knowledge of medical science students about first aid for burns. Also, factors such as age, academic specialisation, academic year, information sources, and fathers' occupation had a significant relationship with the knowledge of medical students about first aid for burns. Therefore, it is suggested that healthcare managers and policymakers make the necessary plans to ensure that first aid training courses are implemented during medical science students' studies as a part of their curriculum., (© 2023 The Authors. International Wound Journal published by Medicalhelplines.com Inc and John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

The purpose of this review study is to investigate the attitude of nursing students toward the prevention of pressure ulcers (PUs) and related factors. From February 1, 2023, a comprehensive search was conducted in international and Persian electronic databases such as Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, Iranmedex, and Scientific information database (SID). The keywords obtained from Medical Subject Headings, including "Attitude", "Nursing students", and "Pressure ulcer" were used in this search. The quality assessment of the present studies in this systematic review was based on the appraisal tool for cross-sectional studies (AXIS tool). A total of 6454 nursing students participated in ten cross-sectional studies. All students were studying at the undergraduate level and 81.20% of them were female. Nursing students were in the first (39.27%), second (28.19%), and third and fourth (32.54%) academic years. Among the participants, 49.86% have completed at least 2 clinical units. The mean scores of attitudes toward PU prevention in nursing students based on attitude toward PU prevention (APuP) and researcher-made questionnaires were 75.01% and 68.82%, respectively. The attitude of nursing students was influenced by various factors, including age, sex, academic year, clinical experience, number of clinical units, experience in caring for PU patients, previous courses on PU in the curriculum, and contribution of training to knowledge. Also, in the present study, the positive relationship between the attitude and knowledge of nursing students was shown as the only significant correlation. In sum, the attitude of the majority of nursing students toward the prevention of PUs was at a satisfactory level. Therefore, it is expected to transfer the necessary knowledge to them with proper planning so that preventive actions can be carried out by following the guidelines., (© 2023 The Authors. International Wound Journal published by Medicalhelplines.com Inc and John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Perceived stigmatisation (PS) can cause different effects on burns survivors such as depression, low self-esteem, body image disturbance, and social anxiety. Current systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to determine the average PS among the burns survivor population and the average reliability of the PS questionnaire (PSQ). A comprehensive systematic search was conducted in various international electronic databases, such as Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science, and Persian electronic databases such as Iranmedex, and Scientific Information Database (SID) using keywords extracted from Medical Subject Headings such as "Stigmatisation", "Burns", "Reliability", and "Questionnaire" from the earliest to February 1, 2023. The COSMIN and the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) checklists were applied to evaluate the risk of bias. Data analysis was performed in STATA V.14 and JAMOVI v 2.3.24 software. The analysis consisted of two sections. Firstly, the overall weighted average of PS was calculated based on mean and standard deviation. Then, the reliability average of PSQ was calculated with the reliability generalisation method based on the alpha coefficient, questionnaire items, and sample size of each study. Finally, eight articles were included in the quantitative analysis. The results showed the weighted average of PS was 2.14 (ES: 2.14, 95%CI: 1.77-2.51, Z = 11.40, I 2 :97.8%, P < 0.001). The average of PS in the factors of confused/staring behaviour, absence of friendly behaviour, and hostile behaviour was 2.36 (ES: 2.36, 95%CI: 2.05-2.67, Z = 14.86, I 2 :92.7%, P < 0.001), 2.13 (ES: 2.13, 95%CI: 1.87-2.39, Z = 16.22, I 2 :93.8%, P < 0.001) and 2.07 (ES: 2.07, 95%CI: 1.67-2.47, Z = 10.05, I 2 :96.5%, P < 0.001), respectively. The analysis showed that the overall coefficient alpha of the PSQ was 0.88 (ES: 0.88, 95%CI: 0.851-0.910, Z = 58.7, I 2 : 95.04%, P < 0.001). Also, the alpha coefficient of factors including confused/staring behaviour, absence of friendly behaviour, and hostile behaviour were 0.847 (ES: 0.847, 95%CI: 0.770-0.924, Z = 21.6, I 2 :99.13%, P < 0.001), 0.860 (ES: 0.860, 95%CI: 0.808-0.912, Z = 32.4, I 2 :98.02%, P < 0.001) and 0.899 (ES: 0.899, 95%CI: 0.829-0.968, Z = 21.33, I 2 : 0.0%, P < 0.001), respectively. In sum, the current study showed that the average PS was 2.14 out of 5 points. Most survivors and parents reported confused/starring behaviour as a common perceived behaviour from different individuals. Also, the average reliability of PSQ was 0.88, and it had acceptable reliability. More studies are required to better judge the level of PS among different age groups. Also, the psychometric properties of PSQ in different cultures are an essential issue., (© 2023 The Authors. International Wound Journal published by Medicalhelplines.com Inc and John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

The present systematic review was conducted to investigate the knowledge of health care workers (HCWs) regarding first aid in burns. A comprehensive, systematic search was performed in different international electronic databases, such as Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science, and Persian electronic databases such as Iranmedex, and Scientific Information Database using keywords extracted from Medical Subject Headings such as 'Knowledge', 'First aid', 'Health personnel' and 'Burns' from the earliest to 1 February 2023. The appraisal tool for cross-sectional studies (AXIS tool) evaluates the quality of the included studies. A total of 3213 HCWs participated in seven cross-sectional studies. Of the HCWs, 44.50% were physicians. The studies included in this systematic review were conducted in Saudi Arabia, Australia, Turkey, the UK, Ukraine, and Vietnam. The knowledge rate of HCWs related to first aid for burns was 64.78 out of 100, which indicates their relatively desirable knowledge. The factors of first aid training experience, age, and experienced burn traumas had a significant positive effect on the knowledge of HCWs related to first aid for burns. Also, factors such as gender, nationality, marital status, and job position had a significant relationship with the knowledge of HCWs about first aid for burns. Therefore, it is suggested that health care managers and policymakers implement training programs and practical workshops related to first aid, especially first aid for burns., (© 2023 The Authors. International Wound Journal published by Medicalhelplines.com Inc and John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Developing heterogeneous catalysts with high performance for peroxymonosulfate (PMS) activation to decontaminate organic pollutants from wastewater is of prominent importance. In this study, spinel cobalt ferrite (CoFe 2 O 4 ) materials were coated on the surface of powdered activated carbon (CoFe 2 O 4 @PAC) via the facile co-precipitation method. The high specific surface area of PAC was beneficial for the adsorption of both bisphenol A (BP-A) and PMS molecules. The CoFe 2 O 4 @PAC-mediated PMS activation process under UV light could effectively eliminate 99.4% of the BP-A within 60 min of reaction. A significant synergy effect was attained between CoFe 2 O 4 and PAC towards PMS activation and subsequent elimination of BP-A. Comparative tests demonstrated that the heterogeneous CoFe 2 O 4 @PAC catalyst had a better degradation performance in comparison with its components and homogeneous catalysts (Fe, Co, and, Fe + Co ions). The formed by-products and intermediates during BP-A decontamination were evaluated using LC/MS analysis, and then a possible degradation pathway was proposed. Moreover, the prepared catalyst exhibited excellent performance in recyclability with slight leaching amounts of Co and Fe ions. A TOC conversion of 38% was obtained after five consecutive reaction cycles. It can be concluded that the PMS photo-activation process via the CoFe 2 O 4 @PAC catalyst can be utilized as an effective and promising method for the degradation of organic contaminants from polluted-water resources., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2023 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)