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Leaves are the most important photosynthetic sources in rice plant. In order to analyze growth indices and determine the contribution of leaves to grain filling, a study was carried out with nine genotypes and six levels of source limitations at grain filling stage in 2017-2018, at the Rice Research Institute of Iran, Mazandaran. The experiment was carried out as a split plot in the form of a randomized complete block design with three replications and placing the genotypes in the main plot and leaf cutting treatments in the sub- plots. The results showed that genotype 959 had the highest Leaf Area Index (LAI) at the flowering stage. The highest Crop Growth Rate (CGR) with 23.3 g m-2 and Net Assimilating Rate (NAR) with 7.5 g m-2 belonged to the genotype 952. Genotypes 957 and 959 had the highest number of tillers and genotype 952 had the highest yield. The results of combined analysis of variance revealed that leaf removal treatments had significant effects on 1000-grain weight, percent of filled grains and paddy yield per hill (P< 1% ). The comparison of means between two years showed that leaf removal treatment caused significant decrease in panicle length, grain length and number of filled and total number of grains per hill. The highest yield reduction of 47.7 and 46.5% occurred in treatment of complete leaf removal for genotypes 953 and 954, respectively. The most destructive level of leaf removal treatments was the removal of all leaves, two top leaves, all leaves except flag leaf, flag leaf and all leaves except upper two leaves which caused paddy yield losses of, respectively, 37.4, 20.2, 16.5, 14.1, and 9.4%, compared to the control (no removal of leaves) with 6133 kg ha-1. According to the results, about 90% of the carbohydrates needed by rice in the grain filling stage are provided by the upper two leaves in each rice plant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Exercise as an important scientific and educational category in strengthening the physical and mental strength of individuals. Access to sports clubs is directly related to a person's willingness to participate in physical activity. This study measures spatial justice in spatial distribution of sports services in Isfahan neighborhoods. Methods: The purpose of the study is practical and is descriptive-analytical in nature and method. The data were obtained by library method and by referring to resources and organizations. To analyze the data, the methods of analysis of the average nearest neighbor, the local Moran index, the global Moran index, the hot spot analysis, the Thiessen polygons and the two-variable Moran index were used. Results: The research findings show that the pattern of distribution of sports services is dispersed. Assessing the effectiveness of the spatial distribution pattern of these services on the utility of the radius of performance is the undesirable situation of areas and neighborhoods around the city in terms of sports services. Measuring the relationship between the distribution of sports services and the population of neighborhoods confirms the very weak relationship between these two variables, which indicates the lack of attention to the population factor and the needs of citizens in the distribution of sports services. Conclusion: The results of the research indicate social inequality and injustice in the distribution of sports services in the neighborhoods of Isfahan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Trichostrongylus spp. are primarily parasites of ruminants, but humans can become infected as accidental hosts. Information about the clinical aspects of human trichostrongyliasis is limited. This study investigated the clinical and haematological characteristics of a large number of trichostrongyliasis patients. In the Fouman district of Guilan Province in northern Iran, during 2015–2016, 60 patients were identified as positive for Trichostrongylus spp., using stool examination methods. The clinical manifestations and demographic data of all patients were recorded and further analysed. Twenty-three patients (38.3%) were male and 37 (61.7%) were female. Among the individuals infected only with Trichostrongylus , only nine patients (16.4%) were asymptomatic. Forty-six patients (83.6%) presented with gastrointestinal (76.3%), pulmonary (30.9%) and cutaneous (12.7%) symptoms. No statistically significant relationship was found between clinical manifestations and sex or age groups. Ten patients (18.1%) revealed eosinophilia and five (9.1%) presented with hypochromic microcytic anaemia. The relationship between eosinophilia and age group, sex and clinical manifestations showed no statistical significance. Our study indicated that trichostrongyliasis may be a major parasitic aetiology for gastrointestinal symptoms and eosinophilia in rural residents of endemic areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of adding three levels of green tea (Camellia sinensis) extract (0, 0.5 and 1 g per kg of feed) and three levels of rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) extract (0, 0.5 and 1 g per kg of feed) to diet of broiler chickens was studied. This research was carried out as a 3×3 factorial experiment based on a completely randomized design with 9 treatments. At the end of the experiment period, from each replicate, three birds were selected and slaughtered in order to investigate different parts of the carcass and blood profile. The results of the experiment showed that the highest level of green tea extract for feed intake of the sixth week was 0 g/kg of feed (P<0.05). Also, the highest level of rosemary extract for feed intake of the sixth week was 0.5 g/kg of feed (P<0.05). Among the nine studied treatments, the highest feed intake at the sixth week belonged to treatment 2 (P<0.05)). The results of the experiment showed that the best level of green tea extract for weight gain of the sixth week was 0 g/kg of feed (P<0.05). Also, the best level of rosemary extract for weight gain of the sixth week was 0.5 g/kg of feed (P<0.05). Among the nine studied treatments, the best weight gain at the sixth week belonged to treatment 2 (P<0.05). The results of the experiment showed that the best level of green tea extract for feed conversion ratio at the sixth week was 0 g/kg of feed (P<0.05). Also, the best level of rosemary extract for feed conversion ratio at the sixth week was 0.5 g/kg of feed (P<0.05). Among the nine studied treatments, the best feed conversion ratio at the sixth week belonged to treatment 2 (P<0.05). The results of the experiment showed that the highest level of green tea extract for LDL/HDL was 1.0 g/kg of feed (P<0.05). Also, the highest level of rosemary extract for LDL/HDL was 0 g/kg of feed (P<0.05). Among the nine studied treatments, the highest LDL/HDL belonged to treatment 7 (P<0.05). The results of the experiment showed that the highest level of green tea extract for HDL was 0 g/kg of feed (P<0.05). Also, the highest level of rosemary extract for HDL was 0 g/kg of feed (P<0.05). Among the nine studied treatments, the highest HDL belonged to treatment 2 (P<0.05). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Background: The IFA test is one of the most usual methods for detecting anti-Toxoplasma antibodies, although it has not any unique standardization. It seems that the microscopic judgment of results is an important confounder in IFA test. Therefore, we conducted the present study to clarify the role of microscopic observer, and other confounders on the test. Methods: Eighty sera were collected from patients suspicious to toxoplasmosis for detection IgG anti-T. gondii by this test. Samples were examined against different series of antigens, IgG antihuman conjugates, and observers. Results: There were no significant differences between the two series of antigens and conjugates. For the observers groups the kappa coefficient of the test results in the experts group (0.97, 0.94- 1.00) were significantly higher than the less experienced observers (0.77, 0.68-0.87). Conclusion: We recommend the IFA test to be performed only in reference laboratories and by laboratory technicians that have enough experience for this test. Otherwise, we suggest the substitution of this test with other tests like ELISA for the diagnosis and epidemiological studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: No-apnea questionnaire (NAQ) and STOP-BANG questionnaire (SBQ) are widely used for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) screening. This investigation aimed to compare the SBQ with the NAQ as an OSA screening tool among commercial drivers., Methods: We included eligible commercial drivers who came to the Occupational Health clinic between March 2018 and March 2019. Participants filled out the SBQ, NAQ, and ESS questionnaires. The SBQ scores eight factors to assess OSA risk, with a score of ≥3 indicating high risk. The NAQ scores age and neck circumference for OSA risk, with ≥3 indicating significant risk. The ESS measures daytime sleepiness, with a score of ≥10 indicating excessive sleepiness as the most common symptom of OSA. The patients' scores were evaluated based on the set criteria. A McNemar test was used to determine the differences between SBQ and NAQ. The number of at-risk patients was measured for each screening test, and the correlation between the two screening methods was evaluated by measuring Cohen's kappa coefficient., Results: A total number of 581 commercial drivers, with a mean age of 44.39 ± 9.16 years, participated. The mean SBQ score was 1.82 ± 0.78, with 17.7% of participants being at high risk of OSA. The mean NAQ score was 3.48 ± 1.94, with 65.7% of participants being at high risk of OSA. About 48.6% of commercial drivers were at high risk, according to the NAQ but not SBQ. In contrast, 0.5% of participants were at high risk, according to SBQ, but not NAQ. Regarding ESS scores, among those identified as high risk for OSA by the SBQ, 13.6% exhibited an ESS score greater than 10. Similarly, within the high-risk group identified by the NAQ, this proportion was 14.1%. Cohen's kappa coefficient was 0.17, which is considerably low. A McNemar test also indicated that the SBQ and the NAQ didn't have equivalent diagnostic outcomes (P-value < 0.001)., Conclusions: The NAQ identified more professional drivers at risk for OSA compared to the SBQ, suggesting that objective-based questionnaires may be more effective for screening in safety-sensitive jobs like commercial driving. However, further validation with polysomnography and cost-benefit considerations are needed to determine the most efficient and sustainable screening approach.

Deep skin wounds require grafting with a skin substitute for treatment. Despite many attempts in the development of an affordable and efficient skin substitute, the repair of deep skin wounds still remains challenging. In the current study, we present a 3D sponge composite made from human placenta (a disposable organ) and sodium alginate with exceptional properties for skin tissue engineering applications. Toward this goal, different proportions of alginate (Alg) and decellularized placenta scaffold (DPS) were composited and freeze-dried to generate a 3D sponge with the desired biomechanical and biological features. Comprehensive in vitro, in ovo, and in vivo characterizations were performed to assess the morphology, physical structure, mechanical behaviors, angiogenic potential, and wound healing properties of the composites. Through these analyses, the scaffold with optimal proportions of Alg (50%) and DPS (50%) was found to have superior properties. The optimized scaffold (Alg50/DPS50) was applied to the full-thickness wounds created in rats. Our data revealed that the addition of DPS to the Alg solution caused a significant improvement in the mechanical characteristics of the scaffold. Remarkably, the fabricated composite scaffold exhibited mechanical properties similar to those of native skin tissue. When implanted into the full-thickness wounds, the Alg50/DPS50 composite scaffold promoted angiogenesis, re-epithelialization, and granulation tissue formation, as compared to the group without a scaffold. Overall, our findings underscore the potential value of this hybrid scaffold for enhancing skin wound healing and suggest an Alg50/DPS50 composite for clinical investigations.

Collective rituals involve the coordination of intentions and actions and have been shown to promote the alignment of emotional states and social identities. However, the mechanics of achieving group-level synchrony is yet unclear. We report the results of a naturalistic study in the context of an Islamic congregational prayer that involves synchronous movement. We used wearable devices to capture data on body posture, autonomic responses and spatial proximity to investigate how postural alignment and shared arousal intertwine during this ritual. The findings reveal a dual process at play: postural alignment appears to be more localized, with worshippers synchronizing their movements with their nearest neighbours, while physiological alignment operates on a broader scale, primarily driven by the central role of the religious leader. Our findings underscore the importance of interpersonal dynamics in collective gatherings and the role of physical co-presence in fostering connections among participants, with implications extending to our understanding of group dynamics across various social settings.This article is part of the theme issue 'Minds in movement: embodied cognition in the age of artificial intelligence'.

Contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) is a serious complication that occurs subsequent to the administration of contrast media for therapeutic angiographic interventions. As of present, no effective therapy exists to prevent its occurrence. This single-center double-blind randomized controlled trial aimed to evaluate the effect of edaravone, an antioxidant, in a group of high-risk patients undergoing coronary angiography. Ninety eligible patients with chronic kidney disease Stages 3-4 were randomly assigned to either the control group (n = 45) or the intervention group (n = 45). In the intervention group, one dosage of edaravone (60 mg) in 1 L of normal saline was infused via a peripheral vein 1 h prior to femoral artery-directed coronary angiography. Patients in the control group received an equal amount of infusion in their last hour before angiography. Both groups received intravenous hydration with 0.9% sodium 1 mL/kg/h starting 12 h before and continuing for 24 h after angiography. The primary outcome measure was the onset of CIN, defined as a 25% increase in serum creatinine levels 120 h after administration of contrast media. The occurrence of CIN was observed in 5.5% (n = 5) of the studied population: 2.2% of patients in the intervention group (n = 1) and 8.9% of controls (n = 4). However, this difference was not statistically significant. Administration of a single dosage of edaravone 1 h prior to infusion of contrast media led to a reduction in the incidence of CIN. Further investigations, employing larger sample sizes, are warranted to gain a comprehensive understanding of its efficacy., (© 2024 The Author(s). Pharmacology Research & Perspectives published by British Pharmacological Society and American Society for Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics and John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Objective: Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a common condition among women during their menstrual cycle. PMS can negatively affect a woman's daily life and function. Nurses, as an important and substantial segment of healthcare staff, are affected by the demanding environment of work place. Since PMS, as a prevalent counterproductive condition, has not been studied in this population in Iran, we assessed the prevalence of PMS and its associated factors among nurses aged 23 to 49 in teaching hospitals of the Tehran province of Iran., Material and Methods: In this cross-sectional study from April 2021 to January 2022, 280 participants from teaching hospitals were enrolled. Simple random sampling was used to determine the sample size of the study. Two validated questionnaires and a data gathering sheet were used to collect information. The premenstrual symptoms screening tool was used to determine PMS severity and the Copenhagen Psychosocial Questionnaire to evaluate the associated job demands. Demographic data and work-related data included: night shift, shift type, monthly COVID-19 care and gynecologic and past medical history were gathered. Then data were analyzed using logistic regression analysis, chi-square and t-test., Results: The severity of PMS was: mild (42.5%); moderate (30%); and severe (27.5%). Regular menstruation and dysmenorrhea were reported by 84.6% and 72.3%, respectively. Moderate to severe PMS was associated with: monthly COVID shift (p=0.02); emotional (p<0.01) and quantitative (p<0.01) demands; regular caffeine intake (p=0.01); education level (p=0.005); regular exercise (p=0.003); regular fiber intake (p=0.08); and irregular menstrual cycles (p=0.007). In logistic regression only quantitative (p=0.003) and emotional (p=0.018) job demands were significant., Conclusion: Results showed that the prevalence of PMS was high among Iranian nurses and was associated with quantitative and emotional job demands. We suggest further studies focusing on preventative and effective interventions to diminish the consequences of PMS in this population. We also suggest investigating the practical application of the findings of this study for healthcare professionals and policymakers., Competing Interests: Conflict of Interest: No conflict of interest is declared by the authors., (Copyright© 2024 The Author. Published by Galenos Publishing House on behalf of Turkish-German Gynecological Association. This is an open access article under the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 (CC BY-NC-ND) International License.)

Objective: Ganoderma extracts have the potential to be used as anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulator, and antimicrobial agents, as evaluated in numerous studies. This study was aimed to determine the lethal and inhibitory effects of aqueous, hydroalcoholic, and alcoholic extracts of Ganoderma lucidum on Toxoplasma gondii RH strain tachyzoites, in vitro., Results: All three types of extracts showed toxoplasmacidal effects. The highest percentage of mortality was related to hydroalcoholic extract. The EC50 of Ganoderma extracts for tachyzoites were 76.32, 3.274, and 40.18 for aqueous, hydroalcoholic and alcoholic extracts, respectively. The selectivity index obtained for hydroalcoholic extract was 71.22, showing the highest activity compared to other extracts. According to our findings, the hydroalcoholic part was the most effective substance among the extracts. This basic study showed obvious anti-toxoplasma effect of Ganoderma lucidum extracts. These extracts can be used as candidates for further in-depth and comprehensive studies especially In vivo experiments to prevent toxoplasmosis., (© 2023. The Author(s).)

Background: The liver flukes of the Fasciola species and Dicrocoelium spp. are recognised as parasites of domestic and wild herbivores. Both species of F. hepatica and F. gigantica as well as D. dendriticum are distributed in Iran. The present study aimed to identify Fasciola spp. and Dicrocoelium spp. using mitochondrial Cox1 (cytochrome c oxidase I) gene by HRM method., Methods: Totally, thirty infected liver specimens were collected from the sheep (n:23) and cattle (n:7) at the abattoirs of Qazvin Province, northwest Iran in 2022. DNA extraction and PCR amplification of Cox1 gene were conducted by HRM technique. DnaSP v.5.0 was used for compression of diversity indices of ribosomal 28S rDNA and mitochondrial Cox1 markers of Dicrocoelium spp. The taxonomic status of Dicrocoelium spp. was performed by sequencing and p hylogenetic analysis., Results: Overall, 26 and 4 isolates were identified as F. hepatica and F. gigantica , respectively. D. dendriticum was the sole infecting species of Dicrocoelium revealed by HRM analysis. Genomic analysis showed a moderate ( 28S rDNA genes: 0.600±0.215) to high ( Cox1 : 0.733±0.155) haplotype diversity for D. dendriticum ., Conclusion: The parasite-dependent mitochondrial gene ( Cox1 ) could identify a higher genetic diversity of D. dendriticum compared to nuclear 28S rDNA gene. HRM technique in the present study found to be a reliable technique for identification and genetic diversity of liver flukes but more comprehensive and in-depth studies in different parts of the country are needed., Competing Interests: Conflicts of interest The authors declare no conflicts of interest., (Copyright © 2023 Hajialilo et al. Published by Tehran University of Medical Sciences.)

Noise and organic solvents are common in many industries and both of them affect hearing. In this study, we estimated the concurrent effect of them on hearing by evaluating the existence of notch in audiograms of workers. The number of 540 persons were enrolled in this study after eliminating workers who had the exclusion criteria. We divided them into 4 groups based on their exposure status; no exposure, exposure to noise, exposure to solvent, exposure to both of them. The presence of notch in left, right, or both ears were assessed through Coles model. The rates of notch presence in both ears in the groups of noise and organic solvents exposure, noise exposure only, solvents exposure only were 11.72, 4.49, 1.86 times higher than the control group and sole solvent exposure didn't affect hearing significantly. The same pattern was seen for notch presence in left or right ear and the solvent-noise exposure group had the highest rate of notch presence. This study aims to show the synergic effect of noise and organic solvents exposure on hearing loss. Hence, we recommend implementing a hearing protection program and a higher frequency of audiological assessments in the industries involved with concurrent exposure to noise and organic solvents., Competing Interests: Conflict of interestAll of the authors state that there is no conflict of interest., (© Association of Otolaryngologists of India 2021.)

The aim of the present study was to detect free-living amoeba (FLA) in the water resources of Arak, Iran using molecular tools. A total of 154 samples were collected from different water supplies. Molecular analyses, sequencing, and phylogenetic study were conducted to confirm the species and genotypes of FLA. Fisher exact test was used to determine the significance. Of 154 water samples, 19 (12.3%) samples were tested positive for FLA. Three genotypes of Acanthamoeba including T4, subtype D, and T5 were identified among the isolates. The pathogenicity assay showed that the isolate of Acanthamoeba in drinking water was highly pathogenic. Three species of Naegleria, including N. australiensis, N. pagei, and N. gruberi were found among the samples. Six isolates of Vermamoeba were identified as V. vermiformis. Meanwhile, three other species including Vannella sp., Vahlkampfia avara, and Stenamoeba polymorpha were also recovered from the water samples. Statistical analysis showed a significant difference between the various water resources contaminated with FLA. This is the first study to reveal the presence of S. polymorpha in water sources in Iran. According to the findings of the present study, health officials should be beware of potential public health impacts of FLA in water resources.

Introduction: Drug craving is a major problem in addiction treatment. Neuroimaging research has revealed various areas for drug craving, among which two key areas are the Dorsolateral Prefrontal Cortex (DLPFC) and the cerebellum. The DLPFC is involved in different cognitive tasks, such as inhibitory control over seductive options that promise an immediate reward. The cerebellum is related to cognition and memory and activated by drug-related cues. Therefore, we decided to study the effect of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) on six different protocols in reducing drug craving and increasing cognitive functions in methamphetamine addicts., Methods: The present study is quasi-experimental, with a pre-test-post-test design and a control group. Based on a simple sampling method, 15 male methamphetamine addicts were recruited from two rehabilitation centers in Tehran City, Iran. The participants were aged 18-65 years with a minimum of 12-month history of methamphetamine dependence. The Visual Analog Scale (VAS), the go/no-go task and the n-back task were administered before and after a single session of tDCS. The tDCS was applied on six protocols: 1) the right DLPFC anodal and the left DLPFC cathodal stimulation, 2) the right DLPFC cathodal and the left DLPFC anodal stimulation, 3) the right DLPFC anodal and the right arm cathodal stimulation, 4) the left DLPFC anodal and the left arm cathodal stimulation, 5) the right cerebellar hemisphere (O2) anodal and the left cerebellar hemisphere (O1) cathodal stimulation, and 6) the right cerebellar hemisphere (O2) cathodal and the left cerebellar hemisphere (O1) anodal stimulation. The data were analyzed by covariance method using SPSS software v. 22., Results: Study results indicated that while single-session tDCS effects on craving were not significant, it increased cognitive inhibition, especially in protocol 2: the right DLPFC cathodal and the left DLPFC anodal stimulation., Conclusion: Single-session tDCS affects craving insignificantly, but it can increase cognitive inhibition significantly. These findings support the results of previous studies on the effects of brain stimulation on reducing drug craving in other drug-type settings., Highlights: One session of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) intervention is ineffective for reducing addiction craving in methamphetamine addicts.DCS intervention significantly increases cognitive inhibition.The best results with tDCS intervention in addiction recovery are use of the right DLPFC cathodal stimulation and left DLPFC anodal stimulation protocol., Plain Language Summary: One of the primary concerns in treating addiction is to choose an effective intervention for reducing craving. tDCS is a non-invasive and safe way of reducing craving, which can be used in different ways to decrease addiction craving and treat addiction. While his study founds that one session of tDCS protocols is not effective in reducing the methamphetamine craving, They are effective for increasing cognitive inhibition, which is essential in addiction recovery and saying no to cravings. This effect on the cognitive inhibition ability has important implications for those seeking new and non-invasive addiction recoveries, especially in methamphetamine addiction., Competing Interests: Conflict of interest The authors declared no conflict of interest., (Copyright© 2022 Iranian Neuroscience Society.)

Background: Free-living amoebae (FLA) such as Acanthamoeba spp., are considered as opportunistic and pathogenic protozoans. Acanthamoeba granulomatous encephalitis (AGE) is a serious threat for immunodeficient patients and Acanthamoeba keratitis (AK) for contact lens users. We aimed to identify the presence of free living amoebae in nasal swabs of patients and contact lens users in Qazvin, Iran., Methods: During 2019, 251 nasal and oral swabs (including the pharynx and mouth) were collected from patients with diabetes, AIDS and those under periodic dialysis in Qazvin, Iran. In addition, 27 soft contact lenses were collected from the participants. Following DNA extraction, PCR and sequencing were conducted to identify the genotypes of the amoeba. Phylogenetic analysis of the identified sequences was performed using MEGA 7 software., Results: A strain of Acanthamoeba belonging to the T3 genotype was isolated from hemodialysis patients. Two specimens of Acanthamoeba with T3 genotype were isolated from keratitis patients., Conclusion: The clinicians should pay attention to the possible complication of this organism because this amoeba is potentially pathogenic for immunocompromised patients. Since the amoeba is present in environmental resources, the use of contact lenses should be accompanied by considering proper hygiene., Competing Interests: Conflict of interest The authors declare that there is no conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2022 Jalilehvand et al. Published by Tehran University of Medical Sciences.)

Trichomonas vaginalis is an anaerobic protozoan parasite that causes trichomonosis in human. It is one of the most common non-viral sexually transmitted infections. It has been found to be most prevalent in patients referred to sexually transmitted disease clinics. In recent years, molecular methods have been used to identify genotypes of this parasite in different parts of the world and so far 6 types of T. vaginalis have identified. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence and genotype identification of T. vaginalis from married women in northern Iran. A total of 450 vaginal specimens were taken from married women, referring to health centers in northern Iran. Demographic information of women was collected through a questionnaire. The samples were first examined microscopically and then monitored in Dorsch culture medium for up to 10 days. Actin genes of positive samples were amplified by PCR. Finally, PCR products were used to determine the sequence and genotype of the parasite. Overall, 0.7% (3/450) samples were positive for T. vaginalis. All of the three infected women were housewives. After sequencing, the genotype of these parasites were type H (66.7%) (Accession no; MW414672-MW414673) and type E (33.3%) (Accession no: MW414671). Low prevalence of T. vaginalis in north of Iran indicate high level of hygiene in sexual intercourse and avoiding from high risk sexual behaviors, and also it seems that genotype H is dominant type of the parasite in the study area.

Background: Sleep disturbance including insomnia and poor sleep quality has been shown to be a major health determinant in occupational settings. Specific occupational exposures to hazards in most workplaces can lead to various health problems, especially sleep problems., Objective: The study aimed to investigate sleep characteristics, and their relationships with work-related exposures, demographics, and other related variables in workers of a smelting factory., Methods: This cross-sectional study was carried out on workers in a 40-year smelting factory located in the East of Tehran Province. A total of 200 male participants were included in the study. Among them, 51 workers were from the production process staff and the rest were office workers. Their shifts were from 6 AM to 5 PM. All participants were asked about demographic characteristics and exposure to respiratory pollutants. All participants answered validated Persian versions of the Insomnia Severity Index (ISI) and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI)., Results: The means (SD) of age and BMI were 39.1 (8.9) years and 26.8 (4.5) kg/m2, respectively. Among all participants, 51 (25.5%) experienced exposure to a respiratory pollutant. Among all workers, 96 (48%) experienced poor sleep quality and 87 (43.5%) and 10 (5%) had subthreshold and clinical insomnia, respectively. The mean (SD) night sleep duration was 6.4 (0.96) hours. Data analysis illustrated a significant positive relationship between exposure to respiratory pollutants and insomnia (p-value = 0.03). Howewer, this association between sleep quality and exposure to repiratory pollutants was not significant (p-value = 0.25). Further analysis with binominal regression showed participants with exposure to respiratory pollutants were more susceptible to clinical insomnia (p-value = 0.02, exp(B) = 0.213), and after regressing out the effect of smoking, participants with exposure to respiratory pollutants remained susceptible to clinical insomnia. A lower night sleep duration was observed among participants with exposure to inhalational material (p-value = 0.05)., Conclusions: Occupational exposures to hazardous material, including inhalational exposures, could cause sleep disturbance, which warrants more attention paid by sleep specialists.

Background: Little is known about the role of occupational-related physical activity and risk factors for cardiovascular disease., Aims: This study aimed to assess the association between different types of physical activity (work-related, transport-related, home-time and leisure-time) and risk factors for cardiovascular disease in a sample of Iranian workers., Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted from February to November 2018 among 415 workers of a rubber factory in Tehran province. Physical activity levels of the participants were measured using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire. Blood sample were analysed for cardiovascular disease risk factors (fasting blood sugar ≥ 100 mg/ dL, triglycerides ≥ 150 mg/dL, total cholesterol ≥ 200 mg/dL, systolic blood pressure ≥ 130 mmHg, diastolic blood pressure ≥ 85 mmHg and waist circumference ≥ 102 cm). Alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase were also measured, as was body mass index (BMI)., Results: Risk factors for cardiovascular disease differed significantly according to type of physical activity. Fasting blood sugar ≥ 100 mg/dL and BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2 had a significant negative association with overall physical activity level (P < 0.001). In a logistic regression analysis, leisure-time physical activity had a significant negative correlation with all risk factors for cardiovascular disease after adjusting for age and smoking., Conclusion: Leisure-time physical activity has a more important role in reducing cardiovascular disease risk factors than other types of activity, including work-related physical activity., (Copyright © World Health Organization (WHO) 2021. Open Access. Some rights reserved. This work is available under the CC BY-NC-SA 3.0 IGO license (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/3.0/igo).)

Background: Drivers are one of the trade unions that are most exposed to various health-related risks, especially metabolic diseases. The present study aimed to systematically assess the overall prevalence of metabolic syndrome and its determinants among drivers in the world., Methods: All retrospective, cross-sectional, or prospective studies evaluating the prevalence and risk for metabolic syndrome and its main components among male professional drivers were eligible for the initial assessment. PRISMA guideline was used. Two blinded reviewers independently screened the titles and abstracts of the manuscripts followed by a deep assessment of the full texts for determining the inclusion appropriateness., Results: In the final, 12 articles were eligible for the final analysis. Overall, 19,350 professional male drivers with a total average age of 43.06 years (ranged from 35.5 to 51.1 years) were included in the study. The prevalence of metabolic syndrome was estimated to be 32.8% (95%CI: 32.1% to 33.5%), and the major determinants of appearing this syndrome among professional drivers were advanced age, years of driving experience, higher body mass index, smoking, high cholesterol dietary regimen, high Framingham risk score, low regular exercising, history of diabetes mellitus, history of gout, and shift work pattern., Conclusion: According to the 32.8% prevalence rate of metabolic syndrome among drivers, managerial measures are needed to prevent and control metabolic disturbances among professional drivers are recommended., Competing Interests: Competing interestsNo potential conflicts of interest or funding source were related to this study., (© This is a U.S. government work and not under copyright protection in the U.S.; foreign copyright protection may apply 2021.)

Aim: Metabolic syndrome is one of the outcomes of a sedentary lifestyle in the modern world. In this study, we want to introduce the predictors of metabolic syndrome using anthropometric indices and Bio-Electrical Impedance Analysis (BIA) test values., Method: This cross-sectional study was performed on 2284 employees of Tehran University of Medical Sciences in different job categories. Metabolic syndrome was determined according to IDF criteria. Anthropometric dimensions, para-clinical tests, basic information were collected from the participants. Also, the body analysis of the participants was performed using a BIA method., Result: The prevalence of metabolic syndrome in this study was 23.2% based on IDF criteria, which was 21% and 26.6% in men and women, respectively. The most important factor among the components of IDF criteria was HDL deficiency. In this study, neck circumference, fat mass, visceral fat, muscle mass percentage and waist to height ratio were observed as predictors of metabolic syndrome., Conclusion: This study realized that there is association between fat mass, fat-free mass, visceral fat and muscle mass which all are some elements of body composition analysis and metabolic syndrome as a major health issue., Competing Interests: Conflict of interestOn behalf of all authors, the corresponding author states that there is no conflict of interest., (© Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2021.)

Background: The relationship between job stress and each component of metabolic syndrome has been previously suggested; however, this association is not consistent. The present study was conducted to assess the association between job stress and metabolic syndrome and its components in a group of Iranian workers affiliated with Tehran University of Medical Sciences., Methodology: This cross-sectional study was performed on 3,537 randomly selected staff in Tehran University of Medical Sciences including the staff of clinical, administrative, and service departments with at least one year of working experience. The overall frequency of metabolic syndrome was assessed based on the international diabetes federation (IDF) criteria. The Persian version of the Copenhagen Psychosocial Questionnaire (COPSOQ) was used to measure major domains of psychosocial factors in the workplace., Results: The overall frequency of metabolic syndrome in the assessed personnel was estimated to be 22.1 % and there was a significantly higher rate of metabolic syndrome in office workers and service personnel compared to clinical staff (OR: 1.51, CI 95 %: 1.25-1.82 and OR: 1.74, CI 95 %: 1.41-2.14, respectively). Health and well-being as a major domain of COPSOQ was found to be significantly impaired by the presence of metabolic syndrome. According to the results of multiple logistic regression modeling, the relationship between metabolic syndrome and impaired health and well-being domain remained significant after adjusting for age, gender, marital status, educational level, and employment category., Conclusions: Our findings revealed a close association between job-related stress and the impaired well-being in the presence of metabolic syndrome among the medical university staff., Competing Interests: Conflict of interestThe authors declared no conflict of interest., (© Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2021.)

Background: The Islamic Republic of Iran is one of the most important endemic foci of cutaneous leishmaniasis in the world. Annually, a large number of Iranian Shia pilgrims travel to Iraq from this area in order to participate in one of their most important religious ceremonies. This trip has coincided with the seasonal activity of sand flies in recent years. So, cutaneous leishmaniasis could be a serious threat for pilgrims on these trips., Aims: To report cases of cutaneous leishmaniasis among Iranian Shia pilgrims attending a religious ceremony in Iraq during 2017., Methods: Sixteen patients were referred to our laboratory in the Department of Parasitology and Mycology at Qazvin University of Medical Sciences. Dermal scrapings and stained slides prepared of skin lesions were used to morphological diagnosis. DNA extraction and PCR amplification were optimized to identification of Leishmania species., Results: All of the patients were infected with cutaneous leishmaniasis in microscopic survey. L. major was detected by molecular approach. The number of lesions observed in patients were 1 (31%), 2 (25%), and ≥ 3 (44%)., Conclusions: Since a large number of Shia Muslims participate in the annual religious ceremonies, serious measures must be taken to prevent the disease., (Copyright © World Health Organization (WHO) 2021. Open Access. Some rights reserved. This work is available under the CC BY-NC-SA 3.0 IGO license (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/3.0/igo).)

Introduction: Hydatidiosis is a serious parasitic disease in humans and livestock, worldwide. Echinococcus granulosus shows notable genetic variation among intermediate hosts. Several genotypes of the worm have been reported from different parts of Iran, but no information on the parasite genotypes status in the study region is available. The current study investigated the presence of different genotypes of E. granulosus in the livestock of Qazvin, Iran, by sequencing the mitochondrial Cox1 genes., Methodology: One hundred twenty E. granulosus isolates, including 30 from goats, 40 from cattle and 50 from sheep, were collected from the slaughterhouses in Qazvin province. Mitochondrial Cox1 gene region was amplified by PCR and 30 isolates were sequenced. Phylogenetic analysis was performed by using the MEGA 7.0 software. Morphological analysis was performed on rostellar hook length of protoscoleces., Results: All isolates were identified as E. granulosus sensu stricto (G1-G3 complex) among 17% of the isolates clarified as G3 genotypes. G1 was the predominant genotype among the specimens. No significant difference between the rostellar hooks measurements of different genotypes was observed., Conclusion: Our findings confirmed the presence of E. granulosus sensu stricto in the region, although further studies are required to determine the haplotype diversity of E. granulosus using different mitochondrial and nuclear genes., (Copyright© Bentham Science Publishers; For any queries, please email at epub@benthamscience.net.)

Background: The respiratory effects of fume exposure during spot welding may aggravate some environmental risk factors such as tobacco smoking. Fume exposure and smoking have negative effects on pulmonary function tests (PFTs). This study assessed the simultaneous effects of smoking and welding fume on spirometry tests in spot welders., Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 667 spot welders and 1000 assemblers in an automotive manufacturing plant. Spirometry was carried out on all the participants under standard conditions and according to the American Thoracic Society Clinical Practice Guidelines and indices including FEV1, FVC, FEV1/FVC, FEF 25-75, and PEF were measured and compared between two groups of the study population including workers of spot welding and assembling., Results: It was found that the effect of simultaneous exposure to smoking and welding fume was aggravated on the PFT indices including the FEV1 percent, FEV1/FVC, the FEV1/FVC percent, the PEF percent, FEF25-75, and the FEF25-75 percent, but not on indices such as FVC, the FVC percent, and PEF., Conclusion: Simultaneous exposure to smoking and welding fume resulted in a reduction in some spirometry indices, causing respiratory airway obstruction in the spot welders. Occupational safety and regular medical examinations with shorter intervals in smoking spot welders can prevent acute respiratory effects of exposure to smoking and welding fume., (Copyright© 2021 National Research Institute of Tuberculosis and Lung Disease.)

Introduction: Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is of high clinical importance due to cost of outcomes such as kidney transplantation. However, CKD is an overlooked disorder among commercial drivers. The present study aimed to evaluate hypertension and Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR) among commercial drivers., Methods: In this cross-sectional study, a total of 903 commercial drivers referred for obtaining their health license were recruited. After obtaining informed consent, a questionnaire consisted of demographic characteristics was completed. Blood pressure, level of lipid profile, blood sugar, blood urea nitrogen, and plasma creatinine were measured. Chi-square and independent T-test were used for data analysis., Results: All participants were male. The mean ( ± SD) age and Body mass index were 42 ± (10) years and 27 ± (4) kg/m2, respectively. Of 903 studied cases 40 (4%) had GFR < 60. Increased age and high blood pressure had a significant association with reduced GFR (P < .0001). The ones with sleep apnea were more likely to have GFR < 60, however, the association was not statistically significant after adjusting for related risk factors., Conclusion: Older age and hypertension are considered as risk factors for CKD among commercial drivers. Obstructive sleep apnea also should be kept in mind as a possible risk factor that requires further elucidation and management.

Introduction: Blastocystis is a common intestinal parasite of human and animal hosts. The parasite has 17 subtypes, and among those at least nine subtypes (ST1-ST9) are found in human hosts., Objective: The aim of the present study was to investigate the presence of different subtypes of Blastocystis spp. among the patients referred to Velayat hospital of Qazvin province, Iran., Methods: Overall, 864 stool samples were examined by using formalin-ethyl acetate concentration method and Trichrome staining. All specimens were cultured in clotted fetal bovine medium. Later, DNA extraction and PCR amplification of 18S ribosomal RNA gene region was conducted and phylogenetic tree constructed., Results: The results revealed 7.9% (68/864) of the study population were infected with Blastocystis . Intestinal symptoms were observed in 61% (36/59) of individuals positive for Blastocystis , with abdominal pain in 58% (21/36) of cases which was more frequent than other intestinal signs. No significant relationship was observed among the study variables. By molecular and phylogenetic analysis, three subtypes ST1 (45%), ST2 (30%) and ST3 (23%) of parasite were identified., Conclusion: This study showed ST1 subtype was the predominant subtype among the positive specimens, meanwhile the highest haplotype and nucleotide diversity were clarified in ST3 subtype., (© 2020 Delshad A et al.)

The electrochemical oxidation of 4-chloroaniline as a model compound in a water/acetonitrile mixture was investigated by cyclic voltammetry and differential pulse voltammetry. It was established that one-electron oxidation of 4-chloroaniline followed by disproportionation reaction affords unstable (4-iminocyclohexa-2,5-dien-1-ylidene)chloronium. In water/acetonitrile mixtures and in the absence of nucleophiles, the most likely reaction on produced chloronium is hydrolysis and p -quinoneimine formation. The electrochemical oxidation of 4-chloroaniline in the presence of arylsulfinic acids was also investigated in a water/acetonitrile mixture at a glassy carbon electrode. It was established that under these conditions, the anodically generated chloronium reacts with benzenesulfinic acid to produce the corresponding diaryl sulfone and N -phenylbenzenesulfonamide derivatives. In addition, Gaussian 09W was applied for prediction of the possible product by the calculation of natural charge, LUMO orbital energies and thermodynamic stability of intermediates and products., Competing Interests: The authors declare no conflict of interest., (This journal is © The Royal Society of Chemistry.)

Background: Free-living amoeba (FLA) are widely distributed in different environmental sources. The most genera of the amoeba are Acanthamoeba , Naegleria and Vermamoeba. The most common consequences of the infections in immune-deficient and immuno-competent persons are amoebic encephalitis and keratitis. The aim of this study was to investigate the presence of Acanthamoeba spp. and Naegleria spp., isolated from the main agricultural water canal in Qazvin., Methods: Totally, 120 water specimens were collected and later the specimens were cultured and cloned to identify positive samples. PCR amplification and sequencing were carried out to identify the isolated species as well as the genotypes of amoeba., Results: According to morphological surveys, 41.7% (50/120) of water specimens were positive for FLA. Molecular analysis revealed that 68.6% and 31.4% of Acanthamoeba specimens were identified as T3 and T4 genotypes, respectively. Also, two species of Naegleria named as N. lovaniensis (57.1%) and Naegleria sp. (42.8%) were identified. The results of pathogenicity assays demonstrated that 38.5% of T3 and 61.5% of T4 genotypes of Acanthamoeba were highly pathogenic parasites., Conclusion: The water flowing in the agricultural canal of the area is contaminated with potential pathogenic FLA, therefore, it is recommended that more attention to be paid towards proper treatment of water sources to prevent possible risk of the disease., Competing Interests: Conflict of interest The authors declare that there is no conflict of interest., (Copyright© Iranian Society of Parasitology & Tehran University of Medical Sciences.)

Free-living amoeba (FLA), including Acanthamoeba and Naegleria are facultative parasites in humans. The amoeba have widespread distribution in various water sources. The aim of this study was isolation and molecular identification of Acanthamoeba and Naegleria isolated from swimming pools and also hot and cold tub waters in Qazvin province. The samples (166 water samples) were cultured to isolate and identify positive specimens. PCR (polymerase chain reaction) amplification, sequencing and phylogenetic analysis were conducted to confirm the isolated species and genotypes of amoeba. According to morphological characterizations, 18.6% of specimens were identified as FLA, which in 71% were Acanthamoeba by PCR method. Molecular analysis revealed that 36.3%, 18.1% and 4.5% of Acanthamoeba specimens were identified as T3, T4 and T11 Acanthamoeba genotypes, respectively. Protacanthamoeba bohemica (27.2%) and Acanthamoeba sp. (4.5%) were found among the specimens. The results of osmo-tolerance and thermo-tolerance assays demonstrated that 50% of T3 and 25% of T4 genotypes of Acanthamoeba were highly pathogenic parasites. The molecular approach showed the presence of Naegleria lovaniensis (9%) in hot tub water of swimming pools. This study demonstrated that the swimming pools and hot tub water in Qazvin province were contaminated with Acanthamoeba and Naegleria species.

Blastocystis sp. is a polymorphic intestinal parasite in humans and animals. The parasite has a worldwide distribution, especially in developing countries with poor sanitation, exposure to animals, and improper disposal systems. The aim of this study was to identify the subtypes of Blastocystis sp. among children of Qazvin, northwest Iran. Totally, 864 stool samples were collected from the children referred to Qods hospital in Qazvin, Iran. Fecal specimens were investigated by formalin-ethyl acetate concentration method and trichrome staining as well as cultivation of all samples in clotted fetal bovine medium. DNA extraction of culture-positive specimens and PCR amplification of 18S ribosomal RNA gene region was performed. The sequences detected were compared with reference genes in the GenBank, and the sequences further deposited in the GenBank database. Data analysis was performed by Chi square test while a p value of < 0.05 was considered as significant. Of 864 isolates, 4.1% (36/864) were positive for Blastocystis sp. with infection rate insignificantly higher among the females than males. The highest infection rate was estimated at 6.8% in 6-9 years old age group with abdominal pain as the most common (33%) gastrointestinal sign. No statistically significant difference was found between the variables and Blastocystis infection. Molecular analysis clarified the presence of three subtypes of Blastocystis including ST1 (56%), ST2 (28%), and ST3 (16%) of among specimens with ST1 as the predominant subtype. A significant association between intestinal signs and the subtypes was not found. Considering ST1 as the predominant subtype, it seems that zoonotic transmission is a main route of human infections with Blastocystis sp. in the area studied., Competing Interests: Conflict of interestThe authors declare no conflict of interest., (© Indian Society for Parasitology 2019.)

Background: Intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) are among the most important etiologies of gastrointestinal disorders in developing countries. The present study was performed to determine the prevalence of IPIs in rural inhabitants of Fouman, northern Iran., Methods: Overall, 31 villages were randomly selected during 2015-2016. Stool samples were collected from 1500 inhabitants aged 2-87. The samples were examined by direct wet smear, formalin ethyl-acetate concentration and agar plate culture. Trichrome staining and modified acid-fast staining were used as confirmatory tests for intestinal amoeba and flagellates and cryptosporidium spp., respectively. Data were analyzed with Chi-Square and Fisher exact tests using SPSS., Results: 8.06% of participants were positive for at least one intestinal parasite. The prevalence of mixed parasitic infections was 0.87%. The most prevalent IPIs were caused by Trichostrongylus spp. (3.13%), followed by Strongyloides stercoralis (1.5%), Giardia lamblia (1.3%), and Entamoeba coli (1.0%), Blastocystis hominis (0.86%), E. histolytica/dispar (0.53%), Endolimax nana (0.26%), Iodamoeba butschlii (0.13%), Trichuris trichiura (0.07%), Enterobius vermicularis (0.07%), Hook worm (0.07%) and E. hartmani (0.07%). Statistically, the prevalence of IPIs showed significant differences regarding the age groups, education status, occupation ( P <0.001), and the habit of eating raw vegetables ( P <0.007), whereas, the differences were insignificant with regard to sex ( P =0.924) and water supply ( P =0.088)., Conclusion: The prevalence of IPIs, especially soil-transmitted helminthes (STHs) has sharply decreased in northern Iran. Excluding Trichostrongylus spp . and S. stercoralis , other intestinal parasites only produce a marginal and unnoticeable health problem in this area, today., Competing Interests: Conflict of interests The authors declare that there is no conflict of interest, (Copyright© Iranian Society of Parasitology & Tehran University of Medical Sciences.)