Showing 26 results for Ashraf
Mitra Hatefi, Sedigheh Mehrabian, Ashraf Sadat Nouhi, Robab Rafiee Tabatabaee,
Volume 11, Issue 2 (6-2008)
Abstract
Introduction: In this study, antimutagenesis effect of ethanolic extract of propolis by Ames test against two mutagenic substances named azide sodium and potassium permanganate in the presence and the absence of microsomal homogenate of mouse liver (S9) has been investigated. Materials and Methods: In this experimental study at first, different concentrations of ethanolic extract of propolis (0.1-5%) for determining minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) against tester strains were used. Then by Ames test, antimutagenesis effect was assessed in nontoxic extent. In this test, various strains of Salmonella typhymurium (TA100 and TA97) that contained selective mutation in their operon histidine, were used. Mutant strains (His-) were grown on culture media containing minimum salt and glucose in the presence of mutagen substances above. So only those bacteria that were reversed by mutation (His+) could grow and form colonies on culture media. If antimutagen (EEP) and mutagen substances were gathered, reversed mutation would be reduced and the rate of mutation inhibition could be calculated by means of formula. The differences between the averages of revertants per plate of the sample in relation to the mutagens were analyzed using SPSS software and one-way ANOVA. Results: The resulted MIC values clearly showed that ethanolic extract of propolis at 5% concentration has antibacterial activity against Salmonella typhymurium, but in 0.1-4% concentrations, such effects were not seen. Findings also showed that propolis in such concentrations could neutralize mutagenic effects of those substances in a dose dependent manner. Conclusion: Finally we found that ethanolic extract of propolis that contains different kinds of major and important substances like flavonoids, has good antimutagenic effects and the best concentration for obtaining such effect is in 4% which also was confirmed with microsomal results. The mechanism of antibacterial effect of propolis is complex and it has no analogy to any classic antibiotics, but it should be emphasized that bacterial cell division is inhibited by propolis. Some researchers also argue that propolis could inhibit DNA-dependent RNA polymerase.
Soleyman Zand, Ashraf Zamani,
Volume 11, Issue 3 (9-2008)
Abstract
Background: Backache is a common problem in pregnancy period . Scientists believe that some simple exercise can help to prevent the occurrence of backache during their pregnancy period. Thus, this research carried out in order to investigate the effect of some simple exercises and correct daily activity in prevention of backache in pregnancy period. Methods and Materials: This is a clinical trial study that was carried out on 138 of pregnant women .The first group including 66 women which considered as control group and treatment group including 72 women. The research had four stages: 1) stage of taking history. 2) Arrange a teaching program. 3) stage of performance( In case group samples were done 60 minutes aerobic exercises for 3 days a week for the 30 weeks undersupervision a physiotherapist). 4) Assessment the results. Data were analyzed by SPSS for statistical analysis. Results: According to the result 18.2% of woman that were under treatment and 36.6% of control group, suffered from backache. Chi-square test showed significant differences between two groups. In addition Odd ratio of treatment population was 2(CI%95 = 4/04-1/91 & p<0/05). Conclusion: The result showed simple exercises during pregnancy period can not eliminate backache, but it can decrease delay backach.
Hamid Momeni, Ashraf Salehi, Abolfazl Seraji,
Volume 12, Issue 4 (2-2010)
Abstract
Background: Job burnout is a common consequence of job stress among nurses which has negative impacts on the quality patient care and physical and mental health status of nurses and it imposes some expenses on health care system. This research aiming at comparing burnout level among the nurses in Markazi province can offer some solutions for reducing burnout and improving self-esteem in nurses. Materials and Methods: In this descriptive cross-sectional survey, via stratified random sampling, 66 nurses working in the clinical sections of governmental hospitals in Arak, Khomein and Saveh and 33 nursing instructors and nursing faculty members of Arak University of Medical Sciences who had their BSc or MSc in nursing were selected. Maslach Burnout Inventory was then administered to the participants. Results: Mean of Job burnout (40.84%) in this research was higher than that of other similar studies. Mean of emotional exhaustion scores, depersonalization and personal accomplishment were 28.38, 9.41 and 29.31, respectively. The difference between occupational burnout in nurses working in the clinical sections and those in the educational departments were significant in the domain of depersonalization. But in other domains, no statistically significant differences were seen between the two groups. Conclusion: Job burnout among educational and clinical nurses is generally high in Markazi province. This can be decreased through such special ways as increasing job stability and freedom of action, clarification of individual responsibility regarding personal performance and dividing tasks among the members for lowering workload.
Javad Baharara, Kazem Parivar, Alireza Ashraf, Roya Rostami,
Volume 12, Issue 4 (2-2010)
Abstract
Background: Noticing the daily advancement of the role of electromagnetic field generators in human life, examination of the biologic impacts of these waves has come to be extensively appreciated by researchers. During pregnancy, vitamin A is extremely essential for the development of fetus and its lack, insufficiency or excess can result in embryonic malformations. This study investigated the synergetic effects of vitamin A and extremely low frequency electromagnetic fields on the development of embryo skin in Balb/C mice. Materials and Methods: This study was experimental in nature. Eighteen pregnant mice were divided into control, sham-exposed and experimental groups. The mice in the experimental group were given an intra-peritoneal injection of 15000 IU/kg vitamin A on the 10.5th day of gestation and were, then, exposed to a 50Hz electromagnetic field 4 hours a day from 10 through 12th day of gestation. The animals were dissected and investigated morphologically and histologically on 17.5th day of gestation. Results: The results showed an increase in the mean weight of fetuses in the experimental group in comparison to the sham- exposed group (p<0.05). Also, Crown-Rump of fetuses in the experimental group increased in comparison to those in the sham- exposed group (p<0.001). Epidermis thickness increased significantly in experimental group in comparison to sham- exposed (p<0.05), while the average number of basal, spinous cells and hair follicles decreased significantly in the experimental group compared to the sham- exposed (p<0.001). Conclusion: The findings indicate that vitamin A usage and synergetic exposure to low frequency electromagnetic fields (50Hz) profoundly affect the development and growth of skin epidermis in the fetus of Balb/C mouse.
Omid Teimornejad, Ashraf Mohebi, Reza Hosseini,
Volume 13, Issue 2 (6-2010)
Abstract
Background Vancomycin resistant enterococcus (VRE) is the third major cause of nosocomial infections in hospitals after staphylococcus and E. coli. The aim of this study was to evaluate resistance pattern of VRE to the antibiotics recommended by CLSI. Materials and Methods: In this clinical trial, 833 enterococci, obtained from urine, wound, blood, and stool, were selectively collected from hospitals in Tehran. After verification of the VRE isolates through the use of 30µg vancomycin disc and agar dilution, VREs were isolated, and their inhibiting concentrations were determined. The sensitivity of these enterococci to antibiotics was assessed at CLSI’s M100 standard. Results: Of the 833 isolated enterococci, 4% had a high level of resistance to vancomycin, and 38.5% had a low level of resistance to vancomycin. Of the VREs, 8.5%, 85%, 50%, 42%, 94%, 30%, 70%, 24%, 6%, and 97% were resistant to vancomycin, ampicilin, erythromycin, tetracycline, rifampin, chloramphenicol, gentamicin, synercid, linozolid and penicillin, respectively. All these VRE isolates were sensitive to nitrofurantoin. Conclusion: In this study, all VRE isolates were sensitive to nitroforantoin, and this antibiotic, as a drug of choice for urinary tract infections, can also be recommended in the treatment of resistant enterococci.
Abolfazl Seragi, Hamid Momeni, Ashraf Salehi,
Volume 13, Issue 3 (9-2010)
Abstract
Background: One way of quitting addiction is forming narcotics anonymous (NA) groups. Noticing the high rate of reappearance of drug usage in these groups, the researchers decided to obtain a proper method of increasing the duration of abandonment period through the analysis of different factors affecting the reappearance of addiction. Materials and Methods: In a cross-sectional analytical study, all NA members (350 men) in Khomein were evaluated through questionnaire and referral interview. Data related to factors affecting quitting addiction, development of addiction, and reappearance of addiction were analyzed. Results: The most important causes of addiction were enjoyment and curiosity (75.1%), whereas the most important factors in abandonment were weariness and pressure from family (45.4%). Also, 48.9% of individuals had previously relapsed into using narcotic substances. The most important factors in reappearance of addiction in NA groups were unemployment and change in income (12.6%). A significant relationship was found between level of education and place of living and addiction to narcotics (p=0.000), whereas there were no significant relationships between the type of narcotic substance and quitting addiction or the mean age of individuals and trying or not trying to quit. Conclusion: Noticing the high rate of reappearance of narcotics usage in NA groups, it seems that current programs for prevention of addiction have not been successful in this regard. However, based on the findings of this study, it is suggested that provision of employment opportunities after quitting addiction can, to some extent, prevent the reappearance of addiction in NA groups.
Amin Talebi Bezmin Abadi, Ashraf Mohabati Mobarez, Tarang Taghvaei,
Volume 13, Issue 3 (9-2010)
Abstract
Background: Helicobacter pylori iceA gene has been reported to be a genetic marker for the development of peptic ulcer in western populations. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of iceA genotypes and their relationship with peptic ulcer in Iran. Materials and Methods: This observational study was carried out on 75 patients. Biopsy specimens were evaluated for the presence of Helicobacter pylori through rapid urease test. GlmM gene and iceA1 and iceA2 genotypes allelic verification and variation culture were determined via PCR. Results: In this study, iceA1 and iceA2 alleles were identified in peptic ulcer disease (PUD) patients. IceA1 genotype (64%) was more prevalent than iceA2 (21.3%). IceA1 strains were more observable in patients with PUD. No significant relationships were seen between iceA genotypes and the clinical outcomes following infection (p= 0.71). Conclusion: This study revealed a significant two-tailed correlation between iceA genotypes and PUD occurrence. The results indicate that iceA1 gene can be used as a reliable marker in predicting the clinical outcomes of Helicobacter pylori infection. Therefore, further in-vitro and in-vivo investigations are needed for reaching general consensus in this regard.
Mohammad Shayestehpour, Mohammad Kazem Shahkarami, Abbas Shafyi, Mohammad Taqavian, Razieh Kamali Jamil, Fatemeh Esna-Ashari, Ashraf Mohammadi, Reza Shahbazi,
Volume 15, Issue 4 (September 2012)
Abstract
Background: Noticing the sensitivity of measles virus to temperature and light, maintaining its stability is highly important in live vaccines. The aim of the study is to evaluate the stability of measles vaccine produced by AIK-C strain. Materials and Methods: In this experimental study, three lyophilized vaccine vials were incubated at 37˚C for one week and their stability was evaluated via accelerated test. In addition, reconstituted vaccines were incubated at 4˚C, 25˚C, and 37˚C for 0, 4, 8, 12, 16 hours after reconstitution and their remaining infectious virus titer was measured using CCID50 method. Half-life of the reconstituted measles vaccine was evaluated according to linear regression analysis. Results: When the reconstituted vaccine was incubated at 4˚C, 25˚C, and 37˚C, the titer loss per hour was equal to 0.05, 0.1 and 0.2 Log10 CCID50, respectively. Also, the half-life of this vaccine at these temperatures was 5.31, 2.26, and 1.36 hours, respectively. Conclusion: The loss of potency for measles vaccine produced by AIK-C strain is 0.33 Log after storage at 37°C for one week, while the reported amounts for commercial vaccines such as Mevilin-L, Attenuvax, Edmonston-Zagreb, and Rimevax are 0.7, 0.7, 1 and 0.78, respectively. Lyophilized and reconstituted vaccine containing AIK-C strain is more stable in comparison with Edmonston B, Schwartz, Biken-CAM, and Leningrad strains. The stability of the reconstituted AIK-C strain vaccine is similar to Moraten strain at 37˚C.
Zatollah Asemi, Ashraf Khorrami, Mohsen Taghizadeh, Zahra Abedini, Ali Akbar Rashidi,
Volume 15, Issue 6 (November 2012)
Abstract
Background: Protein-energy malnutrition is regarded as one of the public health problems in developing countries as a result of poor feeding due to poverty. This study was conducted to compare protein quality of two samples of commercial weaning food, Cerelac (based on dry milk, wheat and banana containing probiotic Bifidobactriumlactis) and Ghoncheh (based on dry milk, wheat, and honey), in rats. Materials and Methods: This experimental study was conducted on 64 male rats aged 23 days in 8 groups under 8 diets, including 2 test diets (Cerelaccontaining probiotic Bifidobactriumlactis and Ghoncheh), 1 standard diet (casein), 1 basal diet (protein free) for true protein digestibility and apparent digestibility study, 2 test diets, 1 standard diet, and 1 basal diet for net protein ratio, protein efficiency ratio, and food efficiency ratio study. Results: The contents of true protein digestibility for casein, Cerelac, and Ghoncheh were 93.77, 84.23 and 89.82, respectively and the results were significant in all of the groups (p<0.001). The content of net protein ratio for casein, Cerelac, and Ghoncheh was 4.38, 4.1 and 3.17, respectively and the results were significantin all of the groups (p=0.009). The contents of protein efficiency ratio for casein, Cerelac, and Ghoncheh were 3.05, 2.59, and 2.01, respectively and the results were significant in all of the groups (p<0.001). Conclusion: The findings of this study indicated that the protein value of Cerelaccontaining Bifidobactriumlactis was higher than Ghoncheh.
Navid Mazruei Arani, Homa Baghaei, Ashraf Khorrami Rad, Zatollah Asemi, Sabiheosadat Alizadeh, Ahmad Esmaeilzadeh,
Volume 16, Issue 6 (9-2013)
Abstract
Background: Increased insulin resistance, inflammatory factors and parameters of oxidative stress are associated with the development of diabetes complications. This study was designed to determine the beneficial effects of synbiotic Gaz on insulin resistance, inflammatory factor and oxidative stress in patients with type 2 diabetes.
Materials and Methods: This randomized crossover double-blinded controlled clinical trial was performed among 62 diabetic patients aged 35-70 y. Subjects were randomly assigned to consume of either the synbiotic (n=62) or control Gaz (n=62) for 6 weeks. A 3-week washout period considered. The synbiotic Gaz was consisted of a probiotic viable and heat-resistance strain Lactobacillus sporogenes (1×107 CFU), 0.04 g inulin and 0.05 g stevia per 1 g as sweeteners' substances. Control Gaz (the same substance without probiotic bacteria and prebiotic inulin) was. Patients were received synbiotic and control foods in a 7 g package thrice a day. Fasting blood samples were taken at baseline and after 6-week intervention to measure insulin resistance, hs-CRP and biomarkers of oxidative stress.
Results: Consumption of synbiotic Gaz, compared with control, resulted in a significant decrease in serum insulin (p=0.02) and hs-CRP levels (p=0.008). Supplementation with synbiotic Gaz led also to a significant increase in plasma total glutathione (p<0.0001) compared to the control.
Conclusion: In conclusion, consumption of synbiotic Gaz for 6 weeks resulted in decreased levels of serum insulin, hs-CRP and increased levels of plasma total glutathione.
Mohammad Reza Massoudinejad, Ashraf Mazaheri Tehrani, Farshid Ghanbari, Simindokht Mirshafian,
Volume 17, Issue 3 (6-2014)
Abstract
Background: The conventional methods of water disinfection are chemical process, ozonation, UV radiation, membrane processes and etc. In recent years, electrolysis method has been considered that is a green process with high efficiency and not by-products. The aim of study is evaluation of efficiency of the electrolysis process with continuous flow in the disinfection of water contaminated with fecal coliform.
Materials and Methods: This study is a Descriptive - analytical study. The samples are prepared in three groups by adding domestic wastewater, manure and E.Coli colonies to distilled water. The prepared samples were introduced to continuous electrochemical reactor. The removal efficiency of electrolysis process was investigated in different conditions which include electrode material (copper and graphite compressed), reaction time (40, 50, 60 and 70 minutes), voltage 48V, distance of electrode 5 cm and the initial pH 7.
Results: The results indicate that removal efficiency depends on source of pollutant, reaction time, and type of electrode. Also the optimal efficiency for E.Coli colonies achieved in electrolysis instrument was as follows: electrode material = copper electrode, distance of electrode=5cm, applied voltage= 48V and reaction time=70 minute. Under these conditions removal efficiency was obtained 99%. No significant changes in pH, TDS and EC in different times and coliform bacteria were not created by changing the source.
Conclusion: According to the results of this study, using the electrolysis process with continuous flow, as a convenient method with high performance and environmentally, suggest for the disin fecting the water contaminated with fecal Coliform.
Neda Soleimani, Ashraf Mohabati Mobares, Fatemeh Atyabi,
Volume 18, Issue 1 (4-2015)
Abstract
Background: The neutrophil-activating protein (HP-NAP) of Helicobacter pylori is a protective antigen and a major virulence factor of this bacteria. Stimulating the immune system for helicobacter infection treatment could have an important role. The aim of study is to assess the effect of recombinant Neutrophil activating protein (Hp-NapA) of helicobacter pylori on proliferation and viability of peritoneal macrophages from BALB/c mice.
Materials and Methods: In this experimental study, recombinant Hp-NapA of helicobacter pylori was produced in vitro. Mice peritoneal macrophages were purified and cultured. Different concentrations of recombinant Hp-NapA was used for macrophages stimulation. MTT assay was performed to assess the viability and proliferation of macrophages.
Results: The results elucidated that the increasing effect of stimulation with recombinant Hp-NapA was significant at the dose of 30 µg/ml (p=0.01). The rate of viabitity was significantly higher than control group at the doses of 30 and 60 µg/ml and in the concurrency series of recombinant protein with lipopolysaccharid, there was a statistically significarit increase in proliferation at just these doses.
Conclusion: According to our findings, recombinant Hp-NapA has a positive effect on proliferation, viability and function of peritoneal macrophages. Therefore, it is proposed that recombinant Hp-NapA can be studied as an immunomodulator for immunotherapy.
Masoud Motalleby, Ashraf Mazaheri, Mohadeseh Mosayebi, Sayyed Mehdi Takhtfiroozeh,
Volume 18, Issue 5 (8-2015)
Abstract
Background: The air pollutants such as CO, SO2, NO2, O3, and particulate matters have harmful effects on public health. Determination of the actual concentration of the pollutants and description of air quantity and quality contents in comparison of standard conditions and timely informing people to regulate control programs is essential. Kashan is exposed to the winds contain-ing the suspended particulate matters due to the proximity of the desert. Moreover, the growth of population, factories and industries in the city are artifical resources of the air pollution. Hence, assessment and monitoring of air pollution standard condition in kashan is crucial.
Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional and descriptive study, the concentration of CO, SO2, NO2, O3, and suspended particulate matters less than 10 microns (PM10) measured according to WHO standards in Panzdah-e-Khordad station of Kashan in 2011. The annual mean and maximum rates, the mean and maximum rate of summer and winter, and annual percentile 98%, determined for each pollutant and used in AirQ software. Then, the number of death and disease attributed to each pollutant was calculated.
Results: The results demonstrate that the cumulative number of deaths attributed to PM10, NO2, SO2, and O3 was 100, 22, 82, and 54, respectively.
Conclusion: In total, the suspended particulate matters have the most effects on death and disease resulted from the air pollution. Hence, managing the resources of particulate matters and SO2 pollutants has many effects on reducing the adverse health effects of air pollution in Kashan.
Davarkhah Rabbani, Mohammad Reza Rezaeimofrad, Ashraf Mazaheri, Mohadeseh Mosayebi,
Volume 18, Issue 9 (12-2015)
Abstract
Background: The growth of population, improvement of quality of life and the development of industries have led to increase in the rate of urban and industrial waste. As the leachate of the waste has a lot of pollution, influences harmfully human health and the environment. Researches have shown that the advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) such as Fenton and Fenton-related processes can reduce chemical oxygen demand (COD) of the leachate effectively.
Materials and Methods: In this paper, the rate of decrease in the total suspended solids (TSS) of leachate from a composting facility in Isfahan was studied using electrochemical, Fenton and electro-Fenton processes. These processes were conducted at reaction times 0, 20, 40, and 60 minutes, with the currents of 0.5, 1 and 1.5A and hydrogen peroxide dosages 1000, 2000, and 3000 mg/L.
Results: In the three mentioned processes, the most TSS removal was observed at the first 40 minute of the reactions. Among the studied processes, the electro-Fenton removed up to 92.4% of the TSS and was recognized as the most effective method. Furthermore, electrochemical and Fenton removed 41.7% and 60.3% of the TSS, respectively.
Conclusion: Therefore, decreasing the TSS of leachate could change its qualities and reduce the leachate pollution and the adverse environmental effects.
Seyyed Nematollah Seify, Ehsanollah Ghaznavi Rad, Ashraf Zamani, Mohammad Yosef Alikhani, Mohammad Rafiei, Soleyman Zand, Hamid Abtahi,
Volume 18, Issue 12 (3-2016)
Abstract
Background: Listeria monocytogenes is one of the most important causes of abortion and postpartum infection in newborns. Because of the importance of L . monocytogenes in the health of pregnant women and newborn babies, the aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of these bacteria in pregnant women and to compare the level of prevalence between women with a history of abortion and with no a history of abortion.
Materials and Methods: In this study, 540 samples of pregnant women were provided from Arak Taleghani hospital. The samples were cultured in enrichment media, then L .monocytogenesis was isolated in specific media.
Results: Of clinical samples, 14 cases had Listeria monocytogenes. Of these samples, 8 cases in women had a history of abortion, while women with no history of abortion were 6 Most cases of positive culture were related to the age of 25 to 34 years, including 7 cases, the lowest cases were 35 to 44 years old including 3 women and 4 women were between 17 and 24 years old.
Conclusion: The study showed that Listeria monocytogenes can cause infection in pregnant women. The use of Phenotypic methods and specific media can apparently isolate listeria monocytogenes from healthy pregnant women.
Farzaneh Rooshenas, Mahboobeh Ashrafi, Saeed Nazifi, Mahmoud Aminlari, Sara Talebanzadeh,
Volume 21, Issue 5 (10-2018)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Medicinal plants possessing antioxidant activity may reduce oxidative stress and improve the functions of various organs that affected by hyperglycemia. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of saffron aqueous extract (SAE) administration to diabetic rats by measuring the oxidative stress parameters and important biochemical enzymes in liver tissue.
Materials and Methods: 72 hours after STZ administration (60 mg/kg body weight), the animals with fasting blood glucose over of 250 mg/dl were considered to be diabetic rats and experimental groups were: control (1), control drug (2), diabetes (3) and diabetes drug (4). The treatment was started on the 7th day after STZ injection with i.p injection of SAE (200mg/kg body weight), five doses and weekly to groups 2 and 4. At the end of the experimental period, biochemical factors were measured after bleeding and harvesting of tissues.
Findings: Results indicated the perturbation in the activity of important liver enzymes in diabetic group (3) and SAE adjusted and normalized their levels activity. In addition, SAE with increases in the activity of antioxidant enzymes alleviated diabetes induced oxidative stress and thus reduced MDA levels in group 4 compared to group 3.
Conclusion: SAE is not only useful in the controlling of blood glucose, but also has antioxidant potential to protect the liver tissue of diabetic rats against damage caused by hyperglycemia-induced oxidative stress.
Ashraf Allahyar, Ali Zeinali,
Volume 23, Issue 2 (June & July 2020)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Diabetes is one of the most common chronic diseases in children and adolescents. Due to its specific problems, it can sometimes lead to substance abuse in adolescents through reduced health and increased depression and stress. The present study aimed to investigate the relationship of substance abuse with depression and stress in diabetic adolescents mediated by conflict resolution and problem solving skills.
Methods & Materials: This is a descriptive/correlational study. The study population consisted of all diabetic adolescent members of Urmia Diabetes Association and those referred to Imam Khomeini Hospital and diabetes specialists in Urmia city in Spring 2019. Of these, 206 were selected using a purposive sampling method. data collection tools were Substance Abuse Subtle Screening Inventory - Adolescents Version (Miller & Lazowski, 2001), Beck’s Depression Inventory (Beck et al, 1988), The Perceived Stress Scale (Cohen et al, 1983), Problem Solving Inventory (Heppner & Petersen, 1982) and Conflict Resolution Style Inventory (Weeks, 1994). Collected data were analyzed by using Pearson correlation test and structural equation modeling in SPSS and LISREL applications.
Ethical Considerations All ethical principles were considered in this study,.
Results: Depression and stress directly had a negative and significant effect on conflict resolution and problem solving skills, but had no significant effect on substance abuse. Conflict resolution and problem solving skills directly had a negative and significant effect on substance abuse. Moreover, depression and stress indirectly had a significant effect on substance abuse through medication by conflict resolution and problem solving skills (P<0.05).
Conclusion: Depression and stress can lead to increased substance abuse in diabetic adolescents by decreasing conflict resolution and problem solving skills. Therefore, in order to reduce substance abuse in these patients, it is recommended to hold training workshops to reduce their depression and stress and improve conflict resolution and problem solving skills.
Tahere Azimi, Malihe Bagheri, Mahdi Pariyan, Behzad Khansarinejad, Ashraf Zamani, Mahdieh Mondanizadeh,
Volume 23, Issue 3 (August & September 2020)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Cervical Cancer (CC) is the third most common malignancy in the women, the main cause of which is human papillomavirus (HPV). Both E6 and E7 oncogenes of the virus play an important role in its tumorigenesis. Today, methods available for screening CC are not capable of detecting the disease at an early stage. Therefore, it is important to identify new biomarkers for early detection of this cancer. For this purpose, in the present study, miRNAs targeting the two oncogenes E6 and E7 of human papillomavirus (types 16 and 18) were studied in CC by bioinformatics.
Methods & Materials: First, using the NCBI database, the E6 and E7 gene sequences were obtained for both human papillomavirus types 16 and 18. Then, using the miRBase and RNA22 bioinformatics databases, the most appropriate targeting miRNAs for these genes were selected.
Ethical Considerations: This study was approved by Ethics Committee of Arak University of Medical Sciences.
Results: Based on the P obtained from bioinformatics databases, miRNA including miR-92a-5p (P=7.51e-2), miR-195-3p (P=2.24e-1), miR-34a-5p (P=2.73e-1) and miR-155-5p (P=4.95e-2) were introduced for the two genes E6 and E7.
Conclusion: Results from bioinformatics studies revealed that of the four miRNAs identified, miR-155-5p and miR-92a-5p are probably the targeting miRNAs specific for the E6 and E7 genes, respectively. Therefore, it seems that these miRNAs can be a suitable candidate for in vitro studies in CC patients.
Nooshin Dalili, Fatemeh Pour-Rezagholi, Maryam Mousavi, Morvarid Alinezhad, Sadra Ashrafi,
Volume 25, Issue 5 (December & January 2022)
Abstract
Introduction: Years after the first successful kidney transplant, there are still many questions about the best immunosuppression regimen for these patients. Various studies have shown that long-term use of calcineurin inhibitor drugs can be associated with chronic nephrotoxicity and lead to irreversible damage to the transplanted organ. Therefore, the goal is to use immunosuppressive drugs and reduce the dose of calcineurin inhibitors as much as possible without increasing the risk of transplant rejection. This study aims to compare renal function, the rate of viral infections, and the occurrence of rejection after kidney transplantation in patients on two different treatment regimens including everolimus plus a low dose of calcineurin inhibitor against the standard protocol of calcineurin inhibitor along with mycophenolic acid in 60 kidney transplanted patients.
Methods: This clinical trial was conducted at Labbafinejad Hospital in Tehran between 2018-2019 on 60 kidney transplant patients aged 18 to 65 years and for 12 months.
Results: In terms of kidney function status based on GFR, except for the first month (P=0.02), there was no significant difference between the two groups in any of the time periods (P>0.05). Also, there was no statistically significant difference between the two study groups in terms of hospitalization length after transplantation and re-hospitalization during the study (P>0.05).
Conclusions: The results of this study showed that the everolimus regimen and low dose of calcineurin inhibitor can be used de novo in transplant patients without increasing the risk of rejection in them and at the same time it may be able to reduce the incidence of viral infections after transplantation.
Davoud Shamsi, Mohsen Mohammadian Saravi, Khalil Ali Mohamadzadeh, Azadeh Ashrafi,
Volume 28, Issue 2 (4-2025)
Abstract
Introduction: Good governance, as one of the fundamental concepts in healthcare system management, plays a key role in enhancing the efficiency, effectiveness, and equity of healthcare services. This concept, Emphasizing principles such as transparency, accountability, participation, and legality, has been considered as a framework for improving policymaking and management in Iran's healthcare system.
This study conducted in 2024 aimed to design and present a model of good governance in the healthcare system using a mixed approach of thematic analysis and Partial Least Squares (PLS) method.
Methods: The research method included both qualitative and quantitative components. The qualitative phase, involved managers, health policy experts, specialists from the Ministry of Health and Medical Education, and academic scholars. Sampling was done using purposive and snowball sampling methods, with 17 participants selected until theoretical saturation was reached. In the quantitative phase, the Partial Least Squares (PLS) method was used for model fitting. The statistical population for this section included all experts and managers in Iran's healthcare sector, with a minimum sample size of 384 determined based on Cochran's formula.
Results: The results of thematic analysis of the qualitative data and model fitting showed that the final good governance model in the healthcare system consists of seven main dimensions: effectiveness, efficiency, equity, transparency and accountability, participation, legality, and leadership. Each dimension comprised specific components, and the importance of each was confirmed in strengthening good governance.
Conclusions: This study presents a comprehensive good governance model for the healthcare system, offering a framework for improving policymaking, management, and performance in this sector. The proposed model can be used as a strategic decision-making tool and improving management structures.
