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Abstract Background Several researches have recommended vitamin D possible health benefits on diabetic complications development, but a few number of studies have been accomplished on the molecular and cellular mechanisms. Certain cellular pathways modification and also some transcription factors activation may protect cells from hyperglycemia condition induced damages. This study purpose was to determine the vitamin D supplementation effect on some key factors [advanced glycation end products (AGEs) signaling pathway] that were involved in the diabetic complications occurrence and progression for type-2 diabetes participants. Methodology 48 type-2 diabetic patients (T2DM) randomly divided into two groups (n = 24 per group), receiving: 100-µg vitamin D or placebo for 3 months. At this study beginning and the end, the receptor expression for advanced glycation end products (RAGE) and glyoxalase I (GLO1) enzyme from peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and AGEs and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) serum levels were measured by the use of real-time PCR and ELISA methods, respectively. Results This study results demonstrated that vitamin D supplementation could down-regulate RAGE mRNA [fold change = 0.72 in vitamin D vs. 0.95 in placebo) P = 0.001)]. In addition, no significant changes were observed for GLO1 enzyme expression (P = 0.06). This study results also indicated that vitamin D serum level significantly increased in vitamin D group (P

Background: Food insecurity can affect health directly or indirectly through its impact on nutritional status. We aimed at determining the effects of nutrition education intervention on household food insecurity in Zahedan, southeast Iran. Methods: The study was conducted using multi-stage sampling method. The first stage was a cross-sectional investigation whereby 2,160 households were studied in Zahedan in 2015. The prevalence of food insecurity was determined and food-insecure households were identified. Household food security status was assessed through the 18-item US Household Food Security Survey Module. In the second stage, based on the determined sample size of 150 households in each group, eligible households were randomly divided into the intervention and control groups. Before the educational intervention, questionnaires including demographic and socioeconomic information were completed for both groups. Then, data analysis was performed and the intervention was conducted on the intervention group. Six months post-intervention, a final assessment was made by interviewing the two groups to complete demographic, socioeconomic, and household food security questionnaires. Results: The prevalence of food insecurity in the 2,160 households was 58.8%. After the intervention, the number of food-insecure households diminished by 22% in the intervention group, and these households were assigned to the food secure category. After controlling the confounding variables, the educational intervention was significantly effective in reducing food insecurity score (P

Introduction: Food Craving Questionnaire (FCQ) is a popular tool in assessing food craving which consisted of a trait (FCQ-T) and state (FCQ-S). The aim of the current study was to provide reliability and validity of the Persian version of FCQ-Trait-reduced (FCQ-T-r 15-items) in overweight and obese women. Material and methods: The subjects were 168 overweight and obese women who were consented to participate. The subjects completed the FCQ-T-r and subsequently, anthropometric, body composition and psychometric assessments performed to assess the inter-correlations and concurrent validity. The confirmatory factor analysis was done to derive the potential factors and internal consistency of the questionnaire was assessed. Two weeks later, FCQ-T-r repeated for 126 subjects to assess test-retest reliability. Results: The confirmatory factor analysis of by varimax rotation, show that three principal components were loaded on expected factors. The Cronbach’s alpha coefficient was 0.90. (0.91, 0.78, and 0.71, for factors). The test–retest analysis shows an acceptable level of reliability ( P=0.001) and Pearson correlation coefficient of 0.92 between the two administrations. In split-half reliability analysis the Cronbach’s alpha coefficient of the part 1 was 0.80 and for the part 2 was 0.86. The correlation coefficient between part 1 and part 2 was 0.81. Conclusion: This preliminary study provides evidences in favor of reliability and validity of the Persian version of the FCQ-T-r. In general, the results showed a high level of internal consistency for FCQ-T-r, and none of the 15 items had to be deleted to improve α.

Background & Aim: Fertility is the most important factors affecting population fluctuations. Reproductive behaviors of a community can be studied through different methods. One of the methods is the evaluation of the interval between marriage and the birth of the first child. The aim of this study was to investigate the factors influencing the interval between marriage and first birth using the Cox regression model. Methods & Materials: In this study, 1230 first-time mothers referred to urban and rural health centers of the city of Bandar Abbas were selected and studied in 2012-2013. The Cox regression model (proportional hazard) was performed to investigate the interval between marriage and first birth and the factors influencing this interval. Descriptive analysis of data was performed using SPSS software version 22 and data modeling was performed by R software version 3.2.1. Results: In this study, the mean interval between marriage and first birth was 27.63 (±24.35) months. Based on the Cox model, mother’s age at marriage with HR(Hazard-Ratio)=1.13 (1.01–1.25) and place of residence with HR=1.28 (1.12–1.46) had significant effects on the interval between marriage and first birth. Conclusion: The results of the current study compared to previous studies show that the interval between marriage and first birth has decreased, and some changes are observed in the factors influencing this interval.

Background: Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) is one of the world health problems. Leishmania major is the etiological agent of zoonotic cutaneous leishmaniasis (ZCL). Promastigote and amastigote are two morphological forms of Leishmania parasites that express different proteins and p27 is an important gene encoding cytochrome c oxidase (COX) component. P27 gene expresses a 27 kDa protein that essential in ATP synthesis. This study aimed to compare p27 gene expression in promastigote and amastigote forms in Iranian strain of L. major (MRHO/IR/75/ER). Methods: This study was conducted in 2015. Clinical isolates of CL patients from north, center, west and south parts of Iran were collected and identified by PCR-RFLP. After RNA extraction of promastigotes and amastigotes and cDNA synthesis, the expression level of p27 gene was compared by real-time RT-PCR. Results: By comparison of expression level between amastigote and promastigote forms of Iranian strain of L. major, up-regulation of p27 gene (2.73 fold) was observed in amastigotes. Moreover, there was no significant difference in p27 gene expression between L. major isolates. Conclusion: p27 gene and protein can be considered as a target in recombinant vaccine production and treatment process.

All stages of initiation and progression of atherosclerosis are associated with inflammatory responses. Heat shock proteins (HSP-70) can play an important role in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. Serum High-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) is significantly associated with the severity of coronary arteriosclerosis. Omega 3 fatty acids contribute to the primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease (CVD). The purpose of the current study was to assess the effect of omega-3 on serum HSP-70 and HsCRP in patients with atherosclerosis. The current study was a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind parallel-group clinical trial, involving 42 male patients with coronary artery disease (CAD). The volunteers were randomly allocated into two groups to receive 4 g omega-3 (containing 720 mg EPA plus 480 mg DHA) supplements (n=21) or placebo (n=21) per day for 8 weeks. Fasting blood samples were taken at the beginning and end of the trial to quantify serum levels of HSP-70 and hsCRP concentrations. The result of the present study revealed that no significant difference was observed between two groups before and after the intervention in terms of serum levels of Cholesterol, Triglyceride, FBS, serum Insulin and homeostasis model of assessment-insulin resistance (HOMA-IR). The difference of HSP-70 between two groups was statistically significant (P=0.04). There was no significant difference between two groups for hsCRP. The study showed that taking omega-3 fatty acids can ameliorate serum HSP-70 as inflammatory parameters. The results suggest more investigation to assess the pathway omega-3 leads to lower incidence of CVD.

Background: Serum levels of lipocalin 2 (LCN 2) and retinol-binding protein-4 (RBP 4), increase in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). We sought to determine whether serum LCN 2 and RBP 4 change after an intervention with omega-3 fatty acids supplementation in diabetic patients.Methods: Forty-five type 2 diabetic patients from Iranian Diabetic Association in Tehran, Iran in 2013 were randomly recruited into two groups: one group received 4 g/d omega-3 for 10 wk; and the control group received placebo. Blood samples, food intake records, anthropometric measurements were obtained from all participants at the beginning and end of the study.Results: Fasting RBP 4 plasma levels significantly changed after 10 wk supplementation (P = 0.01). The LCN 2 concentrations decreased in omega-3 group, but the changes were not statistically significant. Omega-3 supplementation had no noticeable effect on anthropometric factors.Conclusions: These findings provide a rationale for omega-3 supplements aimed at lowering serum RBP 4 levels in T2DM. Keywords: Omega-3 fatty acid, Lipocalin, Retinol-binding protein, Diabetes mellitus

Background and Objectives: This study aimed to develop and validate a food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) for measuring calcium intake in 9-13 years old children in Tehran, Iran. Materials and Methods: A 56-item FFQ containing main contributors of calcium in Iranian diet was designed. Criterion validity of the calcium specific FFQ was evaluated through comparing its result with five 24-h recalls as the reference method. Reproducibility was measured by twice administration of FFQ, one month apart. The study was performed in the selected primary and middle schools of Tehran city. Subjects included 184 children aged 9-13 years (90 girls and 94 boys), who were recruited through two-stage systematic cluster sampling from 20 primary and middle schools. Results: Mean calcium intake was 922.8±322.3 and 876.0±491.8 mg/d for the 24-h recalls and FFQ, respectively, indicating a mean difference of 46.7±458.7 mg/d (P

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease with the impaired balance of CD4+T cells. This trial is a descriptive study to evaluate the expression of CD4+T cell cytokines, interleukin (IL) ‑2, IL‑4, IL‑17, TGF‑β, and respectively related transcription factors, including T-bet, GATA3, RORγt and FoxP3 in MS patients. Sixteen relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS) patients receiving interferon beta (IFN-β)-1a in the stable phase of the disease and 14 healthy control volunteers (HCs) were enrolled in this study. The expression of cytokines and transcription factors was evaluated in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of patients using real time PCR. The results of this study showed that the expression of IL-2 (P≤0.05), IL-4 (P≤0.05), IL-17 (P≤0.05) and RORγt (P≤0.01) in PBMCs of RRMS patients were significantly higher than those in HCs. The expression of TGF‑β, GATA3, and FoxP3 were higher but the RORγt expression was lower in the patients than HCs without reaching significant value. Observed results indicated differences in immune system cytokines of healthy volunteers and the patients that were in the stable phase and under immunomodulatory therapy especially in proinflammatory mediators. Therefore, any therapeutic strategy to restore the immune system balance is desirable in RRMS patients.

Introduction: To determine an indicator for Triclabendazole (TCBZ) efficacy, Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) activity in Fasciola hepatica (Iranian isolate) parasite in presence and absence of TCBZ was evaluated by an in vitro cultivation method. Also, ALT enzyme activity between none and parasitized-infected sheep liver tissues was assessed. Method: The sheep livers were collected and transferred immediately to the Department of Parasitology. Adult living parasites were recovered, washed and divided into two groups, treatment and control groups with 10 parasites in each. We added 15 μg TCBZ to the treatment group; then incubated both groups for 4 h at 37ºC. The parasites, infected and parasite free liver tissues were ground and homogenized by a Mortar and pestle, centrifuged, and supernatants were recovered. Protein concentration and ALT enzyme activity were measured in the supenatants. Results: The results of ALT enzyme activity assay showed 0.03 U/ml/mg protein for treated F. hepatica and 0.01 U/ml/mg protein for untreated samples, the mean values of difference was not significant (p>0.05). The difference between ALT activity in none and parasitized-infected liver was not significant (p>0.05). However, two-sample T-test analysis showed higher ALT activity in treated and untreated parasite in comparison with none and parasitized-infected liver specimens (p

Objective: The Three-Factor Eating Questionnaire Reduced (TFEQ-R18) is one of the most widely used instruments for assessing eating behavior worldwide. The present study aimed at confirming the reliability and validity of the Persian version of TFEQ-R18 among overweight and obese females in Iran. Material and Methods: In the present study, 168 overweight and obese females consented to participate. We estimated the anthropometric indices and asked the participants to complete the TFEQ-R18. Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), Spielberger Anxiety Scale, Appetite Visual Analogue Rating Scale, Food Craving Questionnaire (FCQ), Compulsive Eating Scale (CES), and Restraint Eating Visual Analogue Rating Scale were performed simultaneously to assess concurrent validity. Two weeks later, TFEQ-R18 was repeated for 126 participants to assess test-retest reliability. Moreover, we reported the internal consistency and factor analysis of this questionnaire. Results: Using the results of the reliability analysis and exploratory factor analysis of the principal component by varimax rotation, we extracted 3 factors: hunger, cognitive restraint, and emotional eating. After removing the Items 16 and 18, the Cronbach’s alpha was increased to 0.73 (The Cronbach’s alpha of the factors was 0.84, 0.64, and 0.7, respectively). The results of the Pearson correlation revealed a consistency of 0.87 between the test and retest administrations (p = 0.001). Significant positive correlations were observed between TFEQ-R18 and BDI, Spielberger Anxiety Scale, FCQ, CES, appetite, body weight, fat percentage, and calorie intake. Moreover, a negative correlation was observed in Restraint Eating Visual Analogue Rating Scale and muscle percentage. Conclusions: This study aimed at presenting preliminary support for the reliability and validity of the Persian version of TFEQ-R18 and its psychometric characteristics. This instrument may be helpful in clinical practice and research studies of obesity, appetite, and eating behavior.

Background & Objective: As far as no study has been done on the prevalence of parasitic infections in Saveh, Markazi Province, Iran, the current study aimed to investigate the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections in rural areas of Saveh during 2005-2006. Materials & Methods: 755 people were selected and examined randomly through systematic cluster sampling for intestinal parasites using formalin ether sedimentation technique, as well as direct smear for the diarrheic samples. Results: In general, 14% of individuals were infected with intestinal parasites. The rate of infection with protozoa and helminth parasites were 13.3% and 0.7%, respectively. The infection rate of each parasite species were as follows: Entamoeba coli 5.9%, Giardia lamblia 5.6%, Blastocystis hominis 1.6%, Iodamoeba butchli 0.1%, Chilomastix mesnili 0.1%, Hymenolepis nana 0.3%, Enterobius vermicularis 0.3% and Taenia 0.1%. Conclusion: Comparing the prevalence of intestinal parasites in other parts of the country, especially the rural areas, it is found that the prevalence was lower in Saveh, which is prominent for helminthes parasites. Considering that Saveh is known as a healthy city, the efficient health services in this area is concluded from the obtained results. Therefore, providing treated safe water and sanitation for the reduction of parasites, especially Giardia are recommended in the study area.

Background: The gold standard for detection of bladder cancer is cystoscopy, which is an invasive and complicated procedure. Our study was conducted to find a tumor marker with high specificity, sensitivity, and accuracy for the diagnosis of bladder cancer. Methods: Serum samples were collected from 58 bladder cancer patients and 60 healthy control subjects. Levels of lipid-bound sialic acid (LBSA), and protein-bound sialic acid (PBSA) were measured spectrophotometrically by Aminoff’s method. Results: Mean levels of both markers were found to be significantly higher in the patients than the healthy controls. Positive correlations were observed between serum levels of lipid- (r=0.283, p

Background: We determined the blood lipid-lowering effects of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) on hypertriglyceridemic subjects with Leu162/Val in exon 5 and G/C in intron7 polymorphism of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPARα)genotypes that, to our knowledge, have not been previously studied. Methods: A total of 170 hypertriglyceridemic subjects were enrolled and genotyped for Ala54Thr, Leu162Val, and intron7 polymorphism by the use of a polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism method. After determination of their genotypes, the first 23 eligible subjects who were found as Ala54 carriers and the first 23 eligible Thr54 carriers were enrolled in the study and stratified for PPARα genotypes. Participants took 2 g of pure EPA daily for 8 weeks. Fasting blood lipid and lipoprotein profiles were determined and changes from baseline were measured. Results: We observed significant difference between EPA supplementation and Leu162 and Val162, Interon 7 (GG and GC) carriers (P < 0.001). We did not observe significant associations between the PPARα L162V single nucleotide polymorphism and multiple lipid and lipoprotein measures. Although EPA consumption lowered lipid and lipoprotein concentrations in Leu162 and Val162 carriers and Interon 7 CC and GC carriers, these differences between the studied groups were not statistically significant. Conclusions: EPA consumption has a lipid-lowering effect in hypertriglyceridemic subjects in both Leu162 and Val162 carriers. But there was no significant interaction between EPA supplementation and PPARα genotypes. Thus, genetic variation within the PPARα Leu162/Val cannot modulate the association of EPA intakes with lipid and lipoprotein profile. However, we must note that the sample size in this study was small.

Background: Dental caries is one of the most preventable yet prevalent chronic diseases worldwide. Our objective was to evaluate the effect of family structure and behavioral and eyesight problems as they relate to caries severity in schoolchildren.Methods: This research was carried out on 845 primary schoolchildren aged 9 yr in Kerman, Iran, in 2012. Ten variables, including health records, family structure information and a dmft/DMFT index, were collected. Children were categorized into three groups based on the WHO caries severity classification. Low caries level was defined as dmft/DMFT4.4. The Cochran–Armitage test and ordinal logistic regression were employed for data analysis.Results: Almost half of pupils had moderate or high caries severity. The odds of being in a higher caries severity category in pupils with behavioral problems (OR=2.37, 95% CI: 1.29-4.38) and girls (OR=1.6, 95% CI: 1.22-2.06) were higher than in other categories. In addition, pupils with eyesight problems (OR=0.58, 95% CI: 0.37-0.90) and overweight pupils (OR=0.46, 95% CI: 0.31-0.71) had lower caries severity than others. The effects of parents’ education, birth rank, living with parents and consanguineous relationship between parents were not significant on caries severity (P>0.05).Conclusions: Female pupils with behavioral problems were at a higher risk of caries severity than other pupils. These pupils need to be educated and coached on proper dental care. In addition, overweight pupils and those with eyesight problems had less caries severity than others. Family structure in this study did not have an effect on the severity of dental caries.

Background. Today, more than one billion people globally suffer from poverty and food insecurity. This study aimed to determine the severity of and factors related to household food insecurity in Zahedan, Southeastern Iran. Methods. This cross-sectional study was conducted on a total of 2,160 households between November 2014 and December 2015. Demographic and socioeconomic data were collected through interviewing the household mothers. Household food security status was assessed through the USDA 18-item questionnaire. The data were analyzed using chi-square test, one-way ANOVA, and logistic regression model. Results. Total food insecurity in the households investigated was 58.8%. There were significant associations (P

Background: Exercise can lead to acute oxidative stress, which can result in oxidative damage and induce inflammation. Resveratrol may reduce the levels of inflammatory cytokines. Thus, we investigated the effects of this compound on the plasma levels of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin 6 (IL-6) in male professional basketball players. Methods: Twenty healthy male professional basketball players were randomized into two groups (10 each). For 6 weeks, they received daily either 200 mg of polygonum cuspidatum extract (PCE) standardized to contain 20% trans-resveratrol equivalent to 40 mg trans-resveratrol or placebo. Indices of inflammation were measured before and after 6 weeks of supplementation. Results: There was a significant reduction in plasma levels of TNF-a and IL-6 after 6 weeks of supplementation; while no change was observed in these markers in the control group. Conclusions: Present study shows that 6 weeks of PCE containing resveratrol supplementation reduces the inflammation in male professional basketball players.

Background: Omega 3 and vitamin E are two critical nutrients which include beneficial effects in coronary artery disease (CAD). The aim of this study was to assess the effects of omega 3 alone supplementation or in combination with vitamin E on serum glucose and lipid levels and insulin resistance in CAD patients. Methods: Participants of this clinical trial included 60 male patients with CAD who selected from Tehran Heart Center in Tehran, Iran in 2014. They received 4 g/day omega 3 plus 400 IU/day vitamin E (OE), 4 g/day omega 3 with vitamin E placebo (OP), or omega 3 and vitamin E placebo (PP) for two months. Serum glucose, lipids and insulin were assessed and HOMA-IR was calculated before and after the trial and effects of these nutrients on the highlighted parameters were compared within the study groups. Results: Serum glucose level increased significantly in OP group (P=0.004), but not in OE group. OE and OP groups showed a significant decrease in fasting serum TG (P=0.020 and P=0.001, respectively). Serum insulin and HOMA-IR decreased significantly in OE group (P=0.044 and P=0.039, respectively) but did not change significantly in OP group. Conclusion: Although, omega 3 supplementation may include adverse effects on serum glucose level, co-administration of omega 3 and vitamin E can beneficially decrease serum insulin and insulin resistance in CAD patients.

Objective: Compulsive or binge eating is a kind of disturbed eating behavior, which is mostly observed among dieting women, and is integrated with appetite disorder, and uncontrolled eating of plenty of junk food. The Compulsive Eating Scale (CES) created first by Kagan & Squires in 1984, is an eight-item self-reporting instrument that is made to measure the severity of binge eating disorder. The aim of this study was to provide the reliability and validity of the Persian version of Compulsive Eating Scale (CES) among overweight and obese women in Iran. Method: One hundred and twenty six (N = 126) overweight and obese women consented to participate in this study. We estimated the anthropometric indices, including body weight, height, waist and hip circumferences, a total body fat percentage, and visceral fat level with body analyzer all in standard situations. Then, the participants completed the CES. Next, to assess concurrent validity, Beck Depression Inventory, Spielberger anxiety scale, appetite visual analogue rating scale, Food Craving questionnaire, Three-Factor Eating Questionnaire-R18, and Restraint eating visual analogue rating scale were performed simultaneously. To assess test-retest reliability, CES was repeated for all the participants two weeks later. Moreover, we reported the internal consistency and factor analysis of this questionnaire. Furthermore, we estimated the concurrent correlation of CES with logically relevant questionnaires and body composition and anthropometric indices. Results: Based on the reliability analysis and factor analysis of the principal component by Varimax rotation, we extracted two factors: eating because of negative feelings, and overeating. Internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha) of the CES was 0.85 (Cronbach alpha of the factors was 0.85, and 0.74, respectively). The test-retest correlation of the CES was 0.89. Also, the split-half reliability of the questionnaire was established with the correlation coefficient between Sets I and II. The correlation was 0.85. Conclusion: This study provides preliminary support for the reliability and validity of the Persian version of the CES. This instrument would be helpful in measuring the clinical practice and research studies of obesity, appetite and eating disorders reliably and validly.

Background: During recent years transmission of Dirofilaria immitis (dog heart worm) by Culex pipiens and West Nile virus have been reported from Iran. The present study was preformed for evaluating the susceptibility status of Cx. pipiens collected from capital city of Tehran, Iran. Methods: Four Insecticides including: DDT 4%, Lambdacyhalothrin 0.05%, Deltamethrin 0.05% and Cyfluthrin 0.15 % according to WHO standard methods were used for evaluating the susceptibility status of Cx. pipiens from Tehran moreover For comparison susceptibility status a Laboratory strain also was used. Bioassay data were ana­lyzed using Probit program. The lethal time for 50% and 90% mortality (LT50 and LT90) values were calculated from regression line. Results: The susceptibility status of lab strain of Cx. pipiens revealed that it is susceptible to Lambdacyhalothrin, Deltamethrin, Cyfluthrin and resistant to DDT. Moreover cyfluthrin with LT50=36 seconds and DDT with LT50=3005 seconds had the least and most LT50s. Field population was resistance to all tested insecticides and DDT yielded no mortality. Conclusion: Highly resistance level against all WHO recommended imagicides were detected in field populations. We suggest more biochemical and molecular investigations to detect resistance mechanisms in the field population for further decision of vector control.

The aim of this study is to introduce a parametric mixture model to analysis the competing-risks data with two types of failure. In mixture context, ith type of failure is ith component. The baseline failure time for the first and second types of failure are modeled as proportional hazard models according to Weibull and Gompertz distributions, respectively. The covariates affect on both the probability of occurrence and the hazards of the failure types. The probability of occurrence is modeled to depend on covariates through the logistic model. The parameters can be estimated by application of the expectation-conditional maximization and Newton-Raphson algorithms. The simulation studies are performed to compare the proposed model with parametric cause-specific and Fine and Gray models. The results show that the proposed parametric mixture method compared with other models provides consistently less biased estimates for low, mildly, moderately, and heavily censored samples. The analysis of post-kidney transplant malignancy data showed that the conclusions obtained from the mixture and other approaches have some different interpretations.

Background and Objectives: Human bocavirus (HBoV) is a newly discovered parvovirus. It has been detected primarily in children with acute respiratory tract infections. This study was conducted to clarify the frequency and genotype circulation pattern of HBoV in Iran. Materials and Methods: Conventional PCR was performed on throat swabs of patients less than two years of age with respiratory illnesses during fall and winter 2012-2013. Results: HBoV virus DNA was detected in 15 of 140 samples (10.7 %). Sequencing and phylogenetic analysis on 5 samples showed that all were HBoV1. The positive samples were negative for influenza A and B viruses while co-infection with RSV was found in 2 (13.3%). Conclusion: This study adds to the body of knowledge about the role of HBoV in acute respiratory illnesses in children in Iran.

Background: The aim of this study was to assess the associations between nutrition and dental caries in permanent dentition among schoolchildren. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was undertaken on 698 schoolchildren aged 10 to 12 yr from a random sample of primary schools in Kermanshah, western Iran, in 2014. The study was based on the data obtained from the questionnaire containing information on nutritional habits and the outcome of decayed/missing/filled teeth (DMFT) index. The association between predictors and dental caries was modeled using the Zero Inflated Generalized Poisson (ZIGP) regression model. Results: Fourteen percent of the children were caries free. The model was shown that in female children, the odds of being in a caries susceptible sub-group was 1.23(95% CI: 1.08-1.51) times more likely than boys (P=0.041). Additionally, mean caries count in children who consumed the fizzy soft beverages and sweet biscuits more than once daily was 1.41(95% CI: 1.19-1.63) and 1.27 (95% CI: 1.18-1.37) times more than children that were in category of less than 3 times a week or never, respectively. Conclusions: Girls were at a higher risk of caries than boys were. Since our study showed that nutritional status may have significant effect on caries in permanent teeth, we recommend that health promotion activities in school should be emphasized on healthful eating practices; especially limiting beverages containing sugar to only occasionally between meals.

Objective (s): Food insecurity implies a limited ability to secure adequate and safe food or limited or uncertain ability to acquire acceptable foods in socially acceptable ways.This study aimed to identify the food insecurity prevalence and effected causes in urban families in Dezful.Methods: A total of 400 household were randomly selected by two stage sampling from different areas in Dezful. mothers provided detailed demographic and food insecurity information via a face- to- face interview. Information on food insrcurity was collected using the instrument originally developed by USDA .Results: The prevalence of food insecurity was %37/6. Results showed that, paternal age, education and occupation, race and family size, household with children

Objective: It is postulated that ritalin may adversely affect sleep, appetite, weight and growth of some children with ADHD. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate melatonin supplementation effects on dietary intake, growth and development of children with ADHD treated with ritalin through circadian cycle modification and appetite mechanisms.Method: After obtaining consent from parents, 50 children aged 7-12 with combined form of AD/HD were randomly divided into two groups based on gender blocks: one received melatonin (3 or 6 mg based on weight) combined with ritalin (1mg/kg) and the other took placebo combined with ritalin (1mg/kg) in a double blind randomized clinical trial. Three-day food record, and standard weight and height of children were evaluated prior to the treatment and 8 weeks after the treatment. Children’s appetite and sleep were evaluated in weeks 0, 2, 4 and 8. Hypotheses were then analyzed using SPSS17.Results: Paired sample t-test showed significant changes in sleep latency (23.15±15.25 vs. 17.96±11.66; p=0.047) and total sleep disturbance score (48.84±13.42 vs. 41.30±9.67; p=0.000) before and after melatonin administration, respectively. However, appetite and food intake did not change significantly during the study. Sleep duration and appetite were significantly correlated in melatonin group (Pearson r=0.971, p=0.029). Mean height (138.28±16.24 vs. 141.35±16.78; P=0.000) and weight (36.73±17.82 vs. 38.97±17.93; P=0.005) were significantly increased in melatonin treated children before and after the trial.Conclusion: Administration of melatonin along with ritalin improves height and weight growth of children. These effects may be attributed to circadian cycle modification, increasing sleep duration and the consequent more growth hormone release during sleep.

Objective: The aim of this study was to determine melatonin effects on sleep patterns, symptoms of hyperactivity and attention deficiency in children with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).Methods: Children with age range of 7-12 years who had a combined form of ADHD were randomly divided in to 2 groups according to gender blocks. One group took melatonin (3 or 6mg) combined with methylphenidate (Ritalin) (1mg/kg), and the other group took placebo combined with methylphenidate (1mg/kg). ADHD rating scale and sleep patterns questionnaires were completed. Research hypotheses were assessed at the baseline, the second, fourth and eighth weeks after the treatment.Results: The mean sleep latency and total sleep disturbance scores were reduced in melatonin group, while the scores increased in the placebo group (p≥0.05). Data analysis, using ANOVA with repeated measures, did not show any statistically significant differences between the two groups in ADHD scores.Conclusion: Administration of melatonin along with methylphenidate can partially improve symptoms of sleep disturbance. However, it does not seem to reduce attention deficiency and hyperactivity behavior of children with ADHD.

Long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs) have been advocated as an effective tool against malaria transmission. However, success of this community based intervention largely depends on the knowledge and practice regarding malaria and its prevention. According to the national strategy plan on evaluation of LLINs (Olyset nets), this study was conducted to determine the perceptions and practices about malaria and to improve use of LLINs in Bashagard district, one of the important foci of malaria in southeast Iran. The study area comprised 14 villages that were randomized in two clusters and designated as LLINs and untreated nets. Each of households in both clusters received two bed nets by the free distribution and delivery. After one month quantitative data collection method was used to collect information regarding the objectives of the study. On the basis of this information, an educational program was carried out in both areas to increase motivation for use of bed nets. Community knowledge and practice regarding malaria and LLIN use assessed pre- and post-educational program. The data were analyzed using SPSS ver.16 software. At baseline, 77.5% of respondents in intervention and 69.4 % in control area mentioned mosquito bite as the cause of malaria, this awareness increased significantly in intervention (90.3%) and control areas (87.9%), following the educational program. A significant increase also was seen in the proportion of households who used LLINs the previous night (92.5%) compared with untreated nets (87.1%). Educational status was an important predictor of LLINs use. Regular use of LLIN was considerably higher than the targeted coverage (80%) which recommended by World Heaths Organization. About 81.1% and 85.3% of respondents from LLIN and control areas reported that mosquito nuisance and subsequent malaria transmission were the main determinants of bed net use. These findings highlight a need for educational intervention in implementation of long-lasting insecticidal nets; this should be considered in planning and decision-making in the national malaria control program during the next campaigns of LLINs in Iran.

Background: Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) is the principal ω-3 fatty acids in marine oils. Fasting blood sugar (FBS), HbA1c and some of the plasma lipids and lipoproteins has been negatively related to the intake of ω-3 fatty acids and ascorbic acid, in some studies. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to assess the effects of EPA and/or vitamin C on glycemic indices, blood pressure, and plasma lipids in type 2 diabetic Iranian males. Methods: Sixty five men with type 2 diabetes were enrolled into the study between April 2 and June 27, 2008. Venous blood samples were obtained from all participants after 10 hours of fasting, at the baseline and after the intervention. Subjects received 500 mg EPA and/or 200 mg vitamin C and/or placebo depending on their groups. For eight weeks, 15 participants received EPA supplements with vitamin C (group 1), 16 took EPA supplements and vitamin C placebo (group 2), 17 took EPA placebo and vitamin C (group 3), and 17 received EPA placebo and vitamin C placebo (group 4), daily. Results: There were significant decreases in FBS, HbA1C, LDL-C and TG in groups 1, 2, 3 and 4 (p < 0.01), but significant decreases in TC were shown only in groups 1, 2 and 3 (p < 0.01). There was a significant increase in HDL-C in all groups (p < 0.01). Conclusions: In summary, it is concluded that, eight weeks of taking EPA + vitamin C supplementation improved the plasma levels of cardiovascular markers but didn′t reduce BP.

Introduction: Hydatid cyst disease is caused by the protoscolices of Echinococcus granulosus. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) enzyme is required for metabolism, physiology, immunology, and nutrients absorption in parasite. The aim of this study was to compare the level of ALP activity (as a pathological biomarker) in hydatid cyst protoscolices (HCP) with that of sheep liver tissue and to determine the effect of cystic infection on the enzyme activity. Methods: HCPs were collected from sheep livers with hydatid cysts at a local abattoir and washed 3 times with PBS buffer. HCP samples were freeze-thawed and sonicated, while the collected liver tissues were homogenized. Then, extract solutions were centrifuged and stored at -20°C. ALP activity was measured in the extract solutions of HCP and healthy and infected sheep liver tissue samples. The amounts and bands of protein samples were detected using Bradford method and sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE), respectively. To determine the significant difference between the two groups, independent two samples t-test was used. Results: The mean values of ALP-specific activity of healthy and infected livers and HCP were estimated 0.019, 0.175, and 1.28 U/ml/mg, respectively. Higher ALP activity level was observed in cystic liver compared to healthy liver (p

Background: Inappropriate body composition represents impaired energy and nutrient intake and can be a risk factor for many diseases, especially for cardiovascular disease. Different methods have been suggested for the estimation of body fat volume and its distribution. However, they may be either expensive or hazardous for some groups of patients. Sonography is a very accessible technique, which may be used for the evaluation of visceral and subcutaneous fat volume. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the sonographic prediction of body fat and its distribution in subcutaneous and visceral compartments.Methods: During a three-month period, we conducted sonographic evaluations for visceral and subcutaneous fat in 106 patients who were admitted to our hospital. The subcutaneous fat was measured at the para-umbilical region and visceral fat was measured in the right para-renal space. The results were compared with the data obtained from the body mass index(BMI) and bioelectric impedance analysis.Results: The mean age of the patients was 58.8 years, and the mean BMI was26.48 ± 0.33. The mean values of fat percent and fat mass obtained by the electric-method were 31.07 ± 0.81% and 22.12 ± 0.68 kg, respectively. The respective mean values of subcutaneous and visceral fat obtained by sonography were 20.50±0.56 mm and 24.14 ± 0.58 mm. The correlationbetween BMI and subcutaneous fat was 0.85 (p value < 0.0001) and the correlation between BMI and visceral fat was0.46(p value < 0.0001).Conclusion: Sonography is a reliable and available method for the estimation of body fat and its distribution in cardiovascularpatients, in subcutaneous and visceral compartments.

Payesh2009; 8: 289-296Accepted for publication: 22 June 2008[EPub a head of print-20 Apr. 2009] Objective(s): To determine obesity familial risk factors in school children in winter 2006.Methods: In a cross-sectional study 1471 students aged 6-12 years old selected by two stage cluster sampling. Height and weight of students and their mothers were measured and BMI was calculated. Obesity was defined as having a BMI≥ 95th percentile of Iranian reference. Thereafter, 114 pupils were selected as obese children and the control group was chosen from students having 15th ≤BMI≤85th percentiles. Two groups were matched by age, school and classroom. Twelve non-obese students left the study because of not willing to corporate (n=102 students). Mothers were categorized based on BMI to 3 groups: “

Background and Objective: Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in men and it is the second leading cause of cancer deaths among men after lung cancer. Therefore, this study was done to assess of risk factors for prostate cancer in Mazandaran province, Iran. Materials and Methods: A matched case-control study was conducted on 104 prostate cancer patients and 104 controls in Mazandaran province during 2005. The addresses of the patients were obtained using the cancer registry information existed in Babol research center in Iran. The data were collected using a questionnaire by in-person interview of cases and their controls and were analyzed using STATA (8.0). Results: Univariate condition logistic regression showed that age, prostatitis, drinking alcohol, using chopoghe, family history of prostate cancer, having other cancer, intensity of activity, time of job activity were found to be the risk factors although higher BMI and execreise were protective for prostate cancer (P

Background: Twin pregnancies are commonly associated with low birth weight (LBW) infants. Most studies focus on growth of LBW compared with normal infants in singleton. However, there has not been any study on twins to com-pare LBW with normal birth weight (NBW) infants as a match control of the same twin. Methods: This cohort study was conducted at Healthcare centers of Kashan, in 2013. Twins differing in birth weight (one with LBW and the other with NBW) were assessed using the care charts in Well Care program in regard to weight, height and head circumference measurements at birth and after 6, 12, 24 months of age and were compared separately between all matched pairs and in four sex-twin subgroups which was defined according to the sex of each twin in pairs; SF(Same-sex: Female), SM(Same-sex: Male), LF(LBW: Female) and LM(LBW: Male). Results: Incidence of dissimilar twins in birth weight was 28.4%. The weight of LBW was significantly lower than the NBW cohort in SF and LF subgroups up to 24 months. The height of LBW was not significantly different from NBW cohort in SM and LM subgroups up to 24 month. Head circumference was significantly higher in LBW compared to NBW cohort in LM subgroup up to 24 month. However, these indices were significantly lower in LBW compared to NBW cohort in all pairs. Conclusion: Although LBW cohort was significantly lower than the NBW in growth indices at birth to 2 years old in all twins, however, highly variable results was observed in four subgroups of sex-twin.

Vitamin D deficiency is prevalent in diabetes type 2 and this vitamin may be related to insulin action. This randomized controlled trial study was done to evaluate the effect of vitamin D supplementation on glucose control and insulin resistance in patients with diabetes type 2.Participants of this randomized clinical trial study consisted of 28 patients with type 2 diabetes who received 100 microgram (4000 IU) vitamin D and 30 diabetic patients who received placebo for 2 months between September 2012 and February 2013. The effect of vitamin D on glucose control was assessed by measuring HbA1c and insulin resistance as HOMA-IR at the baseline and the end of the intervention.The results showed a significant decrease in HbA1c (from 7.29 ± 0.22 % to 6.76 ± 0.18 %, P

Pemphigus vulgaris (PV) is an autoimmune blistering disorder of the skin or mucosa. Since low vitamin D status has been linked to many immune disorders, we designed this study to compare the vitamin D status in PV patients with healthy controls.In this case-control study, vitamin D status of 32 newly diagnosed PV patients was compared with 36 healthy control subjects. All patients were selected from the specialized dermatology departments of Razi Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences in a 2-year period (2009-2010). The severity of the disease was estimated according to Harman's scores. Serum concentration of 25(OH)D was measured by Roche Elecsys System. Data were analyzed by independent t-test.Both groups were similar based on sex, age and body mass index. The mean duration of disease was 5.57±0.93 months. The mean oral and skin severities were 1.81±0.20 and 2.31±0.17 respectively, based on Harman's scores. Serum 25(OH)D was significantly lower in PV patients compared to controls (-8.90; 95% CI, 2.29-15.51 and P = 0.009). There was a negative correlation between vitamin D level and the oral severity of disease (r = -0.39 and P = 0.02).PV patients had significantly lower serum level of 25(OH)D compared to healthy subjects which might contribute to worsen the disease. These data indicate the importance of improving vitamin D level in pemphigus patients.

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory disease that leads to degeneration of the brain and spinal tissue. Imbalances of CD4+ T cells including Thelper1 (Th1)/Thelper2 (Th2) and Thelper17 (Th17)/Tregulatory (Treg), their secreted cytokines and gene expressions, are important aspects of in immunopathogenesis of MS. Vitamin A and its metabolites can regulate the immune system and appears to be effective in preventing progression of the autoimmune disease such as MS. Disease progression was evaluated By Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), Expanded Disability States Scale (EDSS) and Multiple Sclerosis Functional Composite (MSFC) tests. Cytokine levels were measured using ELISA kits and gene expression was quantified by Real time PCR (RT-PCR) system. According to the difference between the epidemiological and clinical data on the relationship between vitamin A and immune system regulation, this study of the first time assesses Immune function as well as gene expression and progression of the disease following administration of vitamin A supplement.

Dental caries is one of the most preventable yet prevalent chronic diseases worldwide. Our objective was to evaluate the effect of family structure and behavioral and eyesight problems as they relate to caries severity in schoolchildren.This research was carried out on 845 primary schoolchildren aged 9 yr in Kerman, Iran, in 2012. Ten variables, including health records, family structure information and a dmft/DMFT index, were collected. Children were categorized into three groups based on the WHO caries severity classification. Low caries level was defined as dmft/DMFT4.4. The Cochran-Armitage test and ordinal logistic regression were employed for data analysis.Almost half of pupils had moderate or high caries severity. The odds of being in a higher caries severity category in pupils with behavioral problems (OR=2.37, 95% CI: 1.29-4.38) and girls (OR=1.6, 95% CI: 1.22-2.06) were higher than in other categories. In addition, pupils with eyesight problems (OR=0.58, 95% CI: 0.37-0.90) and overweight pupils (OR=0.46, 95% CI: 0.31-0.71) had lower caries severity than others. The effects of parents' education, birth rank, living with parents and consanguineous relationship between parents were not significant on caries severity (P>0.05).Female pupils with behavioral problems were at a higher risk of caries severity than other pupils. These pupils need to be educated and coached on proper dental care. In addition, overweight pupils and those with eyesight problems had less caries severity than others. Family structure in this study did not have an effect on the severity of dental caries.

Background: Malaria still remains a public health problem in Iran. There are different vector control interventions such as insecticide spraying. The present study was carried out to determine the susceptibility status of Anopheles stephensi larvae to temephos as a national plan for monitoring and mapping of insecticide resistance Methods: Eight different localities in two main malarious provinces were determined as field collecting sites. Mos- quitoes were collected from the field and reared in an insectray. Susceptibility assays were carried out according to the WHO method. The laboratory reared susceptible Beech-Lab strain was used for comparison. Data were analyzed using Probit analysis to determine LC50 and LC90 values. Results: Susceptibility of An. stephensi to temephos indicated that the LC50 ranged from 0.0022 mg/l to 0.0141 mg/l. Although all field strains were susceptible to temephos, considerable variations in temephos resistance ratios of field strains were noticed from all the localities studied in comparison with the susceptible strain. A low level of resistance ratio was noticed in An. stephensi populations except for the Chabahar strain (RR= 4.27 fold). All field-collected An. stephensi populations exhibited homogeneity to the larvicide except for Bandar Abbas and Hormoodar village strains (P> 0.05%). Conclusion: Due to intensive use of temephos in the neighboring countries and occurrence of resistant to this insec- ticide in the main malaria vector in the region, insecticide resistance gene may evolve in the populations of An. stephensi. If temephos be applied as a larvicide it should be used judiciously for resistance management, as rotation strategy.

Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the arterial wall. Oxidized low- density lipoprotein (ox-LDL) seems to have an important role in atherosclerotic plaque formation. This study was performed to investigate the effects of ox-LDL as well as PHA on proliferation and gene expression of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) in patients with atherosclerosis compared to healthy controls. Proliferation of PBMCs was assessed by BrdU assay, while gene expression was assessed by real-time PCR. Both PHA and ox-LDL significantly induced proliferation of PBMCs of patients and controls. PBMCs from controls showed significantly higher proliferation when stimulated with ox-LDL compared to patients. Expression of TGF-β was significantly lower in PBMCs from patients compared to healthy controls (p

Long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs) have been advocated as an effective tool against malaria transmission. However, success of this community based intervention largely depends on the knowledge and practice regarding malaria and its prevention. According to the national strategy plan on evaluation of LLINs (Olyset nets), this study was conducted to determine the perceptions and practices about malaria and to improve use of LLINs in Bashagard district, one of the important foci of malaria in southeast Iran. The study area comprised 14 villages that were randomized in two clusters and designated as LLINs and untreated nets. Each of households in both clusters received two bed nets by the free distribution and delivery. After one month quantitative data collection method was used to collect information regarding the objectives of the study. On the basis of this information, an educational program was carried out in both areas to increase motivation for use of bed nets. Community knowledge and practice regarding malaria and LLIN use assessed pre- and post-educational program. The data were analyzed using SPSS ver.16 software. At baseline, 77.5% of respondents in intervention and 69.4 % in control area mentioned mosquito bite as the cause of malaria, this awareness increased significantly in intervention (90.3%) and control areas (87.9%), following the educational program. A significant increase also was seen in the proportion of households who used LLINs the previous night (92.5%) compared with untreated nets (87.1%). Educational status was an important predictor of LLINs use. Regular use of LLIN was considerably higher than the targeted coverage (80%) which recommended by World Heaths Organization. About 81.1% and 85.3% of respondents from LLIN and control areas reported that mosquito nuisance and subsequent malaria transmission were the main determinants of bed net use. These findings highlight a need for educational intervention in implementation of long-lasting insecticidal nets; this should be considered in planning and decision-making in the national malaria control program during the next campaigns of LLINs in Iran.

Abstract INTRODUCTION: A number of experimental studies have shown that dietary calcium may help improve hypercholesterolemia induced by high-cholesterol/high-fat diets through saponifying cholesterol/fat in the intestine. There is little evidence showing the effect of calcium in a low-fat, low-cholesterol diet on the lipid profile. We evaluated the effect of different levels of dietary calcium, in a cholesterol-free/low-fat diet on serum cholesterol, triglyceride, glucose and insulin, as well as fecal excretion of lipids. methods: Forty-eight male Sprague-Dawely rats were randomly divided to receive three levels of dietary calcium (0.2, 0.5 and 1.2 % W/W) for 10 weeks. Finally, the rats were decapitated and their truncal blood was sampled for biochemical analysis. Fecal fat excretion, total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, triglycerides, glucose, and serum insulin were measured. Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol was calculated using the Friedwald equation. results: Serum cholesterol and LDL cholesterol of rats receiving a high-calcium diet were significantly lower than those of the other two groups (P0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Our findings suggest that, even with a low-fat low-cholesterol diet, calcium has hypocholesterolemic effects, i.e. there may be hypocholesterolemic mechanisms, other than intestinal saponification of cholesterol and/or fatty acids, including endogenous mechanisms for dietary calcium. Keywords: Dietary calcium, serum cholesterol, serum LDL cholesterol, serum triglycerides, serum glucose, serum insulin, fecal fat.

Abstract BACKGROUND: Type 2 diabetes is a major predictor of cardiovascular disease (CVD). There is a large body of evidence that nutrients have a important role in preventing and controlling of CVD risk factors. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of CVD risk factors and their relations with nutrients and energy intake in patients with type 2 diabetes. METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, 107 patients with type 2 diabetes were recruited from individuals who underwent routine medical check-up in the out patient clinic of Shariati Hospital, Tehran, Iran. Patients were evaluated for age, anthropometric measures, blood pressure, fasting blood glucose, lipid profile and HbA1C. Nutrient intakes were obtained via 24- hour recall from each patient in three consecutive days. Nutrients and data analysis were done using FPII and SPSS version 13 soft wares. RESULTS: Overall, 10.9% and 87.9% of patients had respectively two and more than two CVD risk factors. The intakes of energy, protein, dietary fiber and vitamins including vitamin C, E, B12, B6, B3, B2, B1, B5 and mineral such as copper and zinc were less than the standard values (P < 0.001). The status of some nutrients intake was significantly correlated with some CVD risks factors. CONCLUSION: This study indicates a high prevalence of CVD risk factors among diabetic patients and emphasizes on the important role of nutrients intake in prevention and control of these risks. These findings suggest the necessity for improvement of nutrition status for reducing the prevalence of diabetes and CVD. Keywords: cardiovascular risk factors, nutrition, diabetes.

Abstract BACKGROUND: obesity is one of the most important risk factors in chronic diseases, like coronary heart disease and diabetes mellitus. It is believed that elevated levels of C- reactive protein (CRP) and fibrinogen are associated with increased cardiovascular risk. We examined the hypothesis that weight loss would reduce plasma CRP and fibrinogen levels in obese women. METHODS: Body weight, fasting glucose, insulin, triglyceride, total cholesterol, high- density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), low- density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and acute phase proteins were measured at baseline and after 12 weeks of weight loss regimen in 29 obese women. RESULTS: Weight, BMI, fasting blood glucose, cholesterol and triglyceride had significant reductions. HDL-C had increased significantly. No significant changes were observed in LDL-C and insulin concentrations. Plasma acute phase proteins levels decreased significantly. CONCLUSION: Weight loss may represent an important intervention to reduce acute phase protein levels, which may mediate its cardioprotective effects in obese women. Keywords: Obesity, weight loss, acute phase proteins, cardiovascular disease, women.

Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease of the arterial wall characterized by innate and adaptive immune responses to a variety of microbial and self-antigens. Given the crucial role of adaptive immunity in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis, this study was performed to investigate the proliferative response of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) and interleukin (IL)-2 production in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD). In this study, 25 patients with chronic stable CAD and 25 healthy individuals were investigated. The PBMCs were separated and stimulated with phytohaemagglutinin (PHA). MTT assay was performed to measure cell viability and proliferation. IL-2 concentrations in cell culture supernatants were determined by Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay. PHA-stimulated cells revealed a significantly increased optical density (OD) in both groups of patients (p=0.004) and controls (p

Introduction: Inappropriate body composition represents impaired energy and nutrient intake and can be a risk factor for many diseases, especially for cardiovascular disease. Different methods have been suggested for the estimation of body fat volume and its distribution. However, they may be either expensive or hazardous for some groups of patients. Sonography is a very accessible technique, which may be used for the evaluation of visceral and subcutaneous fat volume. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the sonographic prediction of body fat and its distribution in subcutaneous and visceral compartments. Methods: During a three-month period, we conducted sonographic evaluations for visceral and subcutaneous fat in 106 patients who were admitted to our hospital. The subcutaneous fat was measured at the para-umbilical region and visceral fat was measured in the right para-renal space. The results were compared with the data obtained from the body mass index (BMI) and bioelectric impedance analysis. Results: The mean age of the patients was 58.8 years, and the mean BMI was26.48 ± 0.33. The mean values of fat percent and fat mass obtained by the electric-method were 31.07 ± 0.81% and 22.12 ± 0.68 kg, respectively. The respective mean values of subcutaneous and visceral fat obtained by sonography were 20.50±0.56 mm and 24.14 ± 0.58 mm. The correlation between BMI and subcutaneous fat was 0.85 (p value < 0.0001) and the correlation between BMI and visceral fat was0.46 (p value < 0.0001). Conclusion: Sonography is a reliable and available method for the estimation of body fat and its distribution in cardiovascular patients, in subcutaneous and visceral compartments.

World Health organization (WHO) has reported that out of more than 10,000 of 250,000 tuberculosis afflicted children die annually. Pulmonary tuberculosis is a research priority in our country, and diagnos-ing this disease especially in children who are known as the major transmitter of the disease is rather difficult. As a result, it was decided to conduct an overall assessment on this age group in order to determine the importance of the findings of chest radiography and skin test in diagnosing the disease. The present descriptive study was carried out based on the findings of a health plan in Fasa , a Iranian town, during 1995 and 1996, on 2 groups: first-grade students of Fasa elementary schools. Among 2263 students, 102 (4.5%) cases had a positive skin test. According to the radiographic findings, tuberculosis was reported in seven (6.9%) of them. The diagnosis of tuberculosis is more difficult in children; this is because taking sputum samples for laboratory examination is rather difficult especially in children lower than 10 years. In this group, diagnosis is made based on the symptoms like cough, weight loss, history of contact with a TB patient and other diagnostic procedures including chest radiographies and skin test.