Background: The first confirmed case of COVID-19 in Iran was reported in February 2019. The current study aimed to investigate the epidemiological aspects of COVID-19 disease in Isfahan province and evaluate the chances of infection and death in the population. Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 21,203 confirmed cases of COVID-19, based on the polymerase chain reaction test, referred to outpatient facilities from February 2019 to July 2020 in Isfahan province are studied. Disease incidence, mortality, and case fatality rate, as well as odds ratio (OR) of infection and death, were calculated and analyzed using SPSS version 20. Results: The highest incidence of the disease was within the age group of 30–39 years 4911 (23.9%) and males 11,561 (54.5%). Mortality in people over 80 years (207 [32.9%]), men (370 cases [58.7%]), diabetics (182 cases [28.9%]), and people with cardiovascular disease (165 people [26.2%]) was more. In multivariate analysis, patients with a cancer diagnosis had the highest OR of death (OR = 4.03 confidence interval [CI]: 2.56–6.35) (P < 0.001), followed by those with immune deficiency disease (OR = 2.46 CI: 1.07–5.63) (P = 0.03). As the number of comorbidities increased, the risk of death increased in the total population, so that in patients with more than 4 underlying diseases, compared to the group without disease, the chance of death increased 6.33 times. Conclusion: This study showed that people with cancer and chronic respiratory disease had a higher chance of COVID-19 infection. People over the age of 60, people with cancer, and immunodeficiency also had a higher chance of COVID-19 mortalityW.

Background: Paraquat (PQ) poisoning is a serious public health concern, especially in developing countries, due to its easy access and lack of awareness of potential harms. No effective treatment has been reported yet. Conventional hemodialysis (HD) is still used in many centers for excreting PQ or reducing acute kidney injury, but there is no consensus on its efficacy. Therefore, we aimed to review the HD efficacy in PQ poisoning mortality. Materials and Methods: We searched Web of Science, PubMed, Excerpta Medical Database, Google Scholar, Scopus, Cochrane, Web of Knowledge, Pro-Quest, ScienceDirect, Springer, Clinical Key, Scientific Information Database, Magiran, and Iran-doc, in publications before January 1, 2020. We compared patients who underwent HD (Group 1) with those who did not (Group 2). The outcome was considered mortality/survival. The data were analyzed by Comprehensive Meta-analysis Software. Results: This systematic review and meta-analysis included five studies with a combined total of 203 patients. The patients in the Group 1 had higher mortality than Group 2 (odds ratio, 2.84; 95% confidence interval: 1.22–6.64; P = 0.02). There was no evidence of publication bias (P value for Egger's test = 0.833). Conclusion: Although HD did not affect the survival of patients, other variables such as the amount of ingested PQ, poisoning severity, the time between PQ ingestion and the start of HD, duration, and times of HD sessions may influence the results regarding mortality.

Background: Cancer patients, as a highly vulnerable population, are receiving a great deal of attention in the current crisis of coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19). To date, shreds of evidence are not sufficient to the description of COVID-19 outcomes in patients with cancer. This study was performed to evaluate the demographic and clinical characteristics and subsequent outcomes of COVID-19 in cancer patients. Materials and Methods: A hospital-based study was conducted involving 66 cancer patients with a confirmed diagnosis of COVID-19 from January 15, 2020, to December 21, 2020, in Isfahan, Iran. The clinical information was collected by interview and medical records. The statistical analyses were performed to describe categorical variables as well as mean, standard deviation, median, and the interquartile range for quantitative variables. Results: In our study, 66 cancer patients with confirmed COVID-19 (age: 17–97 years; 50% female) were included. Leukemia and bone marrow cancer with a frequency of 25.7% were the most common types of cancer among them. Cancer patients mostly complained of fever, cough and fatigue, and shortness of breath. Among 76.9% of patients discharged from the hospital with relative recovery, 23% died; the most common cause of death was acute respiratory distress syndrome. Age, gender, and type of cancer did not affect cancer mortality. COVID-19 had no potential effect to increase the risk of side effects of anticancer therapies. Conclusion: The results of our studies revealed that cancer is an important risk factor for the higher rate of mortality in patients with COVID-19. These findings could help physicians for the management, treatment, and supportive care of COVID-19 cancer patients.

Background: Hip dysplasia is one of the most widespread hip disorders. Total hip arthroplasty (THA) is the preferred treatment in patients with cup placement choices in true or false acetabulum. The objective of this research was to compare the effectiveness of the two mentioned procedures. Materials and Methods: This study was a randomized, open-label, parallel-group clinical trial, in which 46 patients/51 hips with Crowe type 3 dysplastic hip having THA were assigned to two groups: Group 1 – patients who had cup placement in the true acetabulum and Group 2 – patients who underwent cup placement in the false acetabulum. The variables that were evaluated and analyzed included severity of pain using the visual analog scale (VAS), range of motion (ROM), gait ability, the need for repeated joint replacement, and the Harris Hip Score (HHS). Results: Forty-six patients/51 hips were included in the present study. The patients who were evaluated included 30 (65.2%) males and 16 (34.8%) females. The mean age in the population under study was 71.0 ± 10.22, and the mean body mass index of participants was 26.34 ± 2.22 kg/m². The basic parameters in the two research groups were similar (P > 0.05). There were no significant differences between the two groups in terms of the mean values of VAS and ROM (P > 0.05); however, the mean HHS was significantly higher in the true acetabulum group, 57.90 ± 18.47 versus 48.29 ± 13.80 (P = 0.04). Conclusion: The effectiveness of cup placements both in the true and false acetabula was similar in all of the evaluated variables in terms of clinical outcomes except for HHS which was higher in the true acetabulum group. To further support the results of this research, it is recommended that more research be done on a greater population.

Background: Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been recognized as the main modulatory molecules in various cancers and perform as competing endogenous RNAs (ceRNAs). The nuclear hormone receptor superfamily of ligand-activated transcription factors (NR3C1) regulates numerous proliferative and metabolic processes such as tumorigenesis and metabolic diseases. Furthermore, X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis protein (XIAP) belongs to a family of the inhibitors of apoptosis proteins, is located downstream of the glucocorticoid receptor (GR or NR3C1) pathway, and cooperates with GR to suppress apoptosis. However, the underlying mechanisms of NR3C1 and XIAP in colorectal cancer (CRC) remain mainly unclear. This research aims to clarify the potential RNA biomarkers and to construct a novel ceRNA network in CRC. Materials and Methods: Multistep bioinformatics methods such as Lnc2cancer and miRDB databases were applied to identify candidate lncRNAs and miRNAs. The interaction energy between lncRNAs, NR3C1, and XIAP genes was analyzed by the LncRRIsearch database. Plus, microRNAs and lncRNA were evaluated via the Diana tools database to select microRNAs with the most binding scores. Quantitative reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction (QRT-PCR) was applied to verify RNA molecules' expression levels and their association with the clinicopathological factors in 30 CRC tissues compared to 30 adjacent tissues. Results: QRT-PCR showed upregulation of KCNQ1OT1, NR3C1, and XIAP and downregulation of miR-421. The ceRNA network was constructed with 17 lncRNAs, 2 mRNAs, and 42 miRNAs. Thus, we explained the potential interactions between KCNQ1OT1 and miR-421 with NR3C1 and XIAP genes. Conclusion: Our study represents potential prognostic biomarkers and a new ceRNA network for further study in CRC.

Background: Complications after primary total hip arthroplasty (THA) are the most common reason for revision. Due to the high prevalence of revision surgery, we investigated the frequency of postprimary THA complications and related risk factor revision surgery. Materials and Methods: This is a cohort study that was performed in 2011–2019 on all patients who underwent primary THA surgery re-admitted to the Kashani and Saadi Hospital affiliated to Isfahan University of Medical Science, Iran, due to some complications after THA. Demographic and basic data were collected from patient's medical documents. Harris hip score (HHS) was calculated for all patients 6 months after the last surgery. The obtained data were analyzed using SPSS software version 21. Appropriate statistical tests were conducted to compare the results between the study groups. Results: Among 1260 patients who underwent primary THA, 1006 of them entered the study after applying the exclusion criteria. Thirty nine patients were under revision, 53.8% had prosthesis infection, 56.4% had instability, 6% had aseptic loosening, and 30.8% had periprosthetic fracture. Odds ratio for the above complications were 45.5, 45, 6.4, and 15.5, respectively. HHS postoperatively was also significantly (P < 0.001) higher in patients without revision. No correlation between gender or surgeon experience and revision was detected; however wound discharge (P < 0.001), body mass index (BMI) (P = 0.003), and Infection during hospitalization (P < 0.001) affect revision rate significantly. All four postsurgery complications, i.e., instability, postoperative prothesis infections, periprosthetic fractures, and aseptic loosening, significantly increased the risk of revision (P < 0.001, for all). Conclusion: Instability, prosthetic infections, periprosthetic fractures, and aseptic loosening were the most common causes for increasing revision rates after THA, respectively. Higher BMI, persistent wound discharge, and nosocomial infections during the first hospitalization also increased the rate of revision after primary THA.

Background: Atrial fibrillation (AF) with fast ventricular response over an overt accessory pathway (AP) (preexcited AF) with a short anterograde refractory period is a potentially malignant arrhythmia. This study aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of amiodarone for preexcited AF management. Materials and Methods: This study enrolled 103 patients with evidence of AP in electrocardiography. Patients with preexcited AF were included in the study. Intravenous amiodarone (300 mg) was infused for 30 min for all patients in the AF rhythm. Electrophysiological parameters were evaluated before amiodarone injection and 2 h after pharmacological or electrical cardioversion. Results: Antegrade and retrograde refractory periods of the atrioventricular node (AVN) and AP, as well as antegrade and retrograde Wenckebach points of AVN, were increased significantly after amiodarone infusion. Furthermore, the mean of the shortest preexcited RR interval was increased during the monitoring period. Comparing the preexcited index at the beginning of the study and before cardioversion (2 h later) revealed that the QRS complexes changed to a wider pattern as the preexcitation index changed from 80.61 to 92.26 (P < 0.001). Nineteen (18.4%) patients converted to the sinus rhythm with amiodarone infusion. No ventricular arrhythmia was detected during monitoring. Conclusion: Amiodarone could be considered a safe drug in patients with preexcited AF for rate control despite its relatively low efficacy in conversion to the sinus rhythm.

Quinazolinone and quinazoline have been shown different pharmacological activities, namely anticancer, anti-inflammatory, anti-hyperlipidemia, analgesic, antihypertensive, and antibacterial. On the other hand, molecular hybridization is a structural modification technique in the design of new ligands which consist of two or more pharmacologically active molecules in one structure. Therefore, due to the importance of the biological activities of quinazolinones for the development of new therapeutic agents, this review emphasizes current findings on various quinazolinone-based hybrids in medicinal chemistry. Moreover, it highlights the biological activities and structure-activity relationship of these hybrids.

Background: Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is an important mediator in the acute phase of inflammatory diseases such as neuromyelitis optica (NMO) and multiple sclerosis (MS). The level of IL-6 is higher in cerebrospinal fluid and serum of NMO patients compare to MS. Vitamin D has a regulatory effect on IL-6, so it may have a negative correlation with IL-6 in the acute phase of these diseases. This study was performed to evaluate the serum levels of IL-6 and Vitamin D in NMO and MS patients at the onset of disease to find differences that may help in early diagnosis. Materials and Methods: This case–control study was done on patients with the first episode of optic neuritis, transverse myelitis, and area postrema syndrome who were referred to Kashani MS Center in Isfahan, Iran, between January 2018 and January 2020. The serum levels of Vitamin D and IL-6 were assessed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay in blood sample taken at the time of first presentation in patients who had a definitive diagnosis of NMO and MS during subsequent workup. Results: During a 2-year follow-up, definitive diagnosis of NMO was given in 25 cases, and they were compared with 25 cases that were randomly selected from patients with definite MS. Nineteen patients in the NMO group and 21 patients in the MS group were female. The mean age of patients in the NMO and MS groups was 29.64 ± 1.47 and 30.20 ± 1.42, respectively (P = 0.46). The mean of serum level of Vitamin D was 24.88 ± 15.2 in NMO patients and 21.56 ± 18.7 in MS patients without significant difference (P = 0.48). The mean of IL-6 was 30.1 ± 22.62 in the NMO group and 23.35 ± 18.8 in the MS group without significant difference (P = 0.28). The serum levels of Vitamin D were insufficient in both groups. No correlation between Vitamin D and IL-6 levels was found in our study (P > 0.05). Conclusion: Our results showed that serum IL-6 levels were higher at the onset of NMO disease compared with MS. The serum levels of Vitamin D were low in both groups and there was no association between serum levels of Vitamin D and IL-6 in either group. Future studies with large sample size are needed to confirm these findings.

Background: The Isfahan COVID Cohort (ICC) study was designed to investigate the short- and long-term consequences of patients with COVID-19 in Iran. This report presents the rationale, methodology, and initial results of ICC. Materials and Methods: ICC is a 5-year multicentric prospective cohort study that is ongoing on two groups including 5000 patients hospitalized with moderate or severe and 800 nonhospitalized patients with mild or asymptomatic COVID-19 in Isfahan. The ICC endpoints are morbidity, mortality, incident cases, or worsening of underlying noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) and their risk factors. In the current analysis, we examined the persistent symptoms and incident NCDs or risk factors in 819 previously hospitalized patients who completed 1-year follow-up. Results: The two most common symptoms were joint pain/myalgia (19.7%) and dry cough/dyspnea (18.7%). Around 60% of patients had at least one symptom which was more common among women than men and in middle aged than younger or older patients. Female (odds ratio [OR] =1.88, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.39–2.55) and highly-educated patients (OR = 2.18, 95% CI: 1.56–3.04) had higher risk of having any symptom in 1-year follow-up. New cases of hypertension followed by diabetes then coronary heart disease (CHD) were the most common incident NCDs. Conclusion: During 1-year follow-up after hospital discharge, about 60% of patients experienced persistent symptoms. Incident hypertension, diabetes, and CHD were the most common events seen. Close monitoring and extensive health services with integrative approaches are needed to improve the health status of these patients.

Background: Atrial electromechanical delay (AEMD) is the time interval between the beginning of P wave on surface electrocardiography and starting of the late diastolic wave on tissue Doppler imaging. We investigated the prolongation of AEMD, echocardiographic changes, and correlation of these findings with neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Materials and Methods: The study consisted of 105 (49 females and 56 males; mean age: 65.1 ± 9) patients with COPD exacerbation and 104 (21 females and 83 males; mean age: 64.8 ± 9.6) stable COPD outpatients. Demographics, body mass index, pulmonary function tests, and transthoracic echocardiography of the patients were evaluated. Echocardiography was performed in the first 6 h for stable COPD outpatients and in the first 24 h for COPD exacerbation patients. Diameters of right ventricle (RV), left ventricle (LV) and left atrium, aortic root diameters, left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), E_max, A_max, E_max/A_max, tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE), Ea, Aa, Ea/Aa, E_max/Ea, and tricuspid regurgitation velocity (TRV) were evaluated. AEMD measurements were obtained from lateral/tricuspid, lateral/mitral, and septal annulus from apical four-chamber views with tissue Doppler imaging and corrected for heart rate. Complete blood count including NLR was also assessed. Results: The mean age of patients in exacerbation period (65.1 ± 9) was higher than the stable group (64.8 ± 9.6). RV basal and mid diameters (P < 0.001), A_max (P < 0.001), Ea tricuspid (P = 0.040), Aa tricuspid (P < 0.001), TRV, and systolic pulmonary artery pressure (P < 0.001) were higher; TAPSE and tricuspid E_max/A_max (P < 0.001) were significantly lower in patients with COPD exacerbation. LV end-diastolic diameter (P = 0.002) and LVEF (P = 0.005), E_max/A_max mitral (P < 0.001), Ea/Aa mitral (P < 0.001), and Ea/Aa septal (P < 0.001) were significantly lower; A_max mitral (P = 0.002), Aa mitral (P < 0.001), Aa septal (P < 0.001), and systolic motion mitral (P = 0.011) were significantly higher in patients with exacerbation. AEMD lateral/tricuspid (P < 0.001), lateral/mitral (P < 0.001), and septal (P < 0.001) were significantly higher in patients with COPD exacerbation. Neutrophil and lymphocyte count (P < 0.001) and NLR (P = 0.003) were significantly higher in the acute group. A weak correlation of NLR with LV end-diastolic diameter (P = 0.003; r = 0.357), E_max/Ea mitral (P = 0.019; r = 0.285), E_max tricuspid (P = 0.045; r = −0.244), and systolic motion septal (P = 0.003; r = 0.352) was detected in patients with stable COPD. Conclusion: In COPD exacerbation patients, prolongation of AEMD intervals was determined. Acute period of COPD may trigger atrial dysrhythmias including atrial fibrillation and flutter, multifocal atrial tachycardia, premature beats, and both systolic and diastolic dysfunctions frequently.

Background: Placenta adherent abnormality (PAA) is abnormal attachment of the placenta to the myometrium. This abnormal placenta binding has severe clinical consequences for the mother and the fetus. We investigated the outcomes of hypogastric arterial ligation (HAL) before hysterectomy compared to hysterectomy alone in pregnant women with PAA. Materials and Methods: In this randomized controlled clinical trial, 70 patients were randomly allocated to HAL along with hysterectomy and hysterectomy alone groups (35 in each Group). The total amount of intraoperative blood loss, the need for intraoperative blood products transfusion, frequency of deep vein thrombosis, duration of surgery, duration of hospitalization, and visceral trauma were compared between 2 Groups. Results: Finally, 64 patients completed the study protocol with mean age of 33.84 ± 4.25 years. The study groups were comparable in terms of basic baseline demographic and clinical characteristics. Visceral trauma was less frequently occurred in HAL group compared to hysterectomy alone (0% vs. 15.6%; P = 0.02). Intraoperative blood loss (1525 ± 536.41 cc vs. 2075 ± 889.36 cc; P = 0.001) and were significantly lower in HAL group compared to hysterectomy alone. Duration of operation (179.06 ± 36.28 vs. 197.66 ± 39.47; P = 0.05) and hospitalization (4.97 ± 2.20 vs. 6.10 ± 2.39; P = 0.03) also were significantly lower in HAL group. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that prophylactic HAL has a protective effect on the reduction of blood loss and less visceral trauma in pregnant women with PAA.

Background: COVID-19 is responsible for the latest pandemic. Dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) is one of the cellular receptors of interest for coronavirus. The aim of this study was to assess the roles of DPP-4 inhibitors in prognosis of COVID-19 infection in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Materials and Methods: A retrospective cohort study was performed in 2020 in military medical centers affiliated to AJA University of Medical Sciences in Tehran on 220 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus who were admitted in medical centers with COVID-19 infection. We collected demographic data of patients including age, gender, drug history, usage of DPP-4 inhibitors, clinical presentations at the time of the first visit, and the disease outcome including hospitalization duration and need for respiratory assist. Results: The study population consisted of 133 males (60.5%) and 87 females (39.5%), with a mean age of 66.13 ± 12.3 years. Forty-four patients (20%) consumed DPP-4 inhibitors (sitagliptin and linagliptin). Patients who were treated with DPP-4 inhibitors required less oxygen (O₂) therapies compared to other cases (76.7% vs. 88.6%, P = 0.04). Patients who were treated with DPP-4 inhibitors had significantly lower hospitalization duration compared to other cases (6.57 ± 2.3 days vs. 8.03 ± 4.4 days, respectively, P = 0.01). There were no significant differences between the two groups of patients regarding survival rates (P = 0.55). Age was a predictive factor for survival (odds ratio, 1.13; 95% confidence interval, 1.04–1.23; P = 0.004). Conclusion: DPP-4 inhibitors could significantly decrease hospitalization days in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus who were hospitalized for COVID-19. However, DPP-4 inhibitor usage showed no statistically significant impact on survival. Age was the important prognostic factor.

Background: Ponticulus posticus (PP) (arcuate foramen) is an abnormal bony bridge in the posterior arch of the atlas, which could possibly cause certain complications such as headache. Our goal was to assess the prevalence and size of PP on lateral cephalometric radiographs and its relationships with cervicogenic headache and migraine. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was a descriptive–analytical type and was performed in Isfahan Azad Dental University. Lateral cephalometric radiographs of 150 patients referred to the radiology department were selected to assess the prevalence and size of the anomaly. A checklist was prepared to evaluate cervicogenic headache and migraine among patients. Results: Our sample consisted of 97 females and 53 males with an age range between 5 and 56 years. The prevalence of PP was 21.3% (12% complete and 9.3% incomplete), and an insignificant difference was noted between the prevalence of complete and incomplete foramen (P > 0.05). The prevalence of foramen was higher in women (59.4%), but it was not significant. The mean width of complete foramen was 6.40 mm, and the mean heights in individuals with complete and incomplete foramen were 4.71 and 4.84 mm, respectively. Among patients with the anomaly, 43.8% had cervicogenic headache and 9.4% had migraine. There was a significant association between the presence of foramen and both types of headaches (P < 0.05). However, there was no significant correlation between the shape of anomaly and the presence of cervicogenic headache and migraine (P > 0.05). Conclusion: Our study showed a high prevalence of PP and its significant association with cervicogenic headache and migraine.

Background: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of compact food bar (CFB) designed on cardiopulmonary function in men athletes who serve in military service. Materials and Methods: In this randomized, single-blind, controlled clinical trial, 46 men of military staff were arranged into 2 groups and studied for 28 days; one branch used 3 packs daily, 700 kcal each, of CFB with Functional compounds (Caffeine and L-arginine) and the other group used regular food during training course. Maximal oxygen uptake (VO₂ Max) in vitro with cardiopulmonary exercise test, body composition, and physical activity were assessed and recorded at baseline and end of the study period. Results: VO₂ Max (P = 0.05) significantly increased in CFB group compared with baseline. Moreover, VO₂ Max (P = 0.01), VO₂/HR (P = 0.04), oxygen uptake/heart rate (VO₂/HR) (P = 0.03), and ventilation per minute/oxygen uptake (VE/VO₂) (P = 0.03) significantly increased in CFB group compared with control group. In comparison, there was no significant difference in mean ventilation per minute/carbon dioxide production (VE/VCO₂) (P = 0.41), ventilation per minute (VE) (P = 0.69), and breathing frequency (P = 0.056). No significant effect of CFB was found on weight, body mass index (P = 0.23), lean body mass (P = 0.91), and body fat mass (P = 0.91). Conclusion: Our results show that intervention with CFB is more effective than regular diet in improving cardiopulmonary function in men athletes who serve in military service.

Background: This study aimed to investigate the effect of 6 weeks' pilates training along with dill supplementation on serum concentrations of nesfatin-1, lipocaline-2, and insulin resistance in females with overweight and obesity. Materials and Methods: In this randomized controlled trial study, 45 overweight and obese females are randomly assigned to four groups: Pilates training + dill group (PDG) (n = 12), pilates training + placebo group (PPG) (n = 11), dill supplementation group (DG) (n = 11), and placebo group (PG) (n = 11). Participants of PDG and PPG performed pilates training for 6 weeks (60 min, 3 sessions per week). PDG and DG received dill tablet (three times a day, 6 weeks). Anthropometric measurements, glycemic markers, and blood samples were assessed before (pretest) and after (posttest) 6 weeks of intervention. Results: Results showed a significant increase in serum concentrations of nesfatin-1 in PDG compared to pretest (P = 0.001). Differences in the serum concentrations of nesfatin-1 in PDG were greater than PPG, DG, and PG (P = 0.01). Furthermore, results found in significant reduction in serum concentrations of lipocalin-2, body mass index (BMI), and waist-hip ratio (WHR) in PDG, PPG, and DG as compared to pretest (P > 0.05). Fasting glucose plasma (FGP) was significantly decreased in all three intervention groups PDG (P < 0.001), PPG (P < 0.001), and DG (P < 0.001) as compared to pretest. Differences in FGP were significantly higher in PDG than PPG, DG, and PG (P = 0.001). A significant reduction was found for insulin only in PDG after 6 weeks of intervention as compared to pretest (P = 0.03). Insulin resistance significantly decreased in PDG (P = 0.03) and PPG (P = 0.04) as compared to pretest. Body fat percent (BFP) was significantly decreased in PDG (P = 0.003), PPG (P = 0.006), and DG (P = 0.01). However, there were no significant inter-group differences in insulin resistance, insulin, serum concentrations of lipocalin-2, BMI, BFP, and WHR after 6 weeks of Pilates training along with dill supplementation (P > 0.05). Conclusion: We concluded that 6 weeks of Pilates training along with dill may be beneficial for improvements in serum concentrations of nesfatin-1 and FGP.

Background: Adhesion of Candida to host cell receptors, hemolysin production, and proteinase activity are assumed as principal virulence factors and infection establishment. These virulence factors are essential for colonization, biofilm formation, and attack on the host cells. Materials and Methods: A total of 97 Candida albicans isolates obtained from gastroesophageal lesions and urinary tract infections were included in the study. Adhesion assay, proteinase activity, and hemolysin production were measured. Statistical analysis was performed using the independent t-test and Chi-square test to compare quantitative and qualitative data between the two groups. Results: The adherence ability to the buccal epithelial cells was the same in the two groups. Proteinase activity was seen in all clinical isolates. Hemolytic activities were not statistically significant in the two groups. Conclusion: Our results recommend that the pathogenicity of C. albicans in the mucous membranes cannot be connected to the infected site.

At a time when the COVID-19's second wave is still picking up in countries like India, a number of reports describe the potential association with a rise in the number of cases of mucormycosis, commonly known as the black fungus. This fungal infection has been around for centuries and affects those people whose immunity has been compromised due to severe health conditions. In this article, we provide a detailed overview of mucormycosis and discuss how COVID-19 could have caused a sudden spike in an otherwise rare disease in countries like India. The article discusses the various symptoms of the disease, class of people most vulnerable to this infection, preventive measures to avoid the disease, and various treatments that exist in clinical practice and research to manage the disease.

Background: Breast cancer is among the most common malignancies in women around the world. There is evidence of high prevalence of serum/blood Vitamin D deficiency in Iranian women. Considering the multitude of factors that may be involved in the prognosis and lifespan of breast cancer patients, this study investigated the level of Vitamin D in Iranian patients with nonmetastatic breast cancer. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was carried out on 214 women diagnosed with breast cancer, who were referred to the radio-oncology department. Serum Vitamin D level of the patients was measured. Prognostic factors were determined based on demographic and pathological characteristics. The results were analyzed using descriptive statistics tests, Chi-square, one-way analysis of variance, Kaplan–Meier, and Cox regression model in SPSS v22. For all cases, the significance level was considered to be P < 0.05. Results: The total mean of 25-hydroxyvitamin D serum level was 25.15 ± 17.68 ng/ml. There was no significant relationship between levels of Vitamin D with disease stage, tumor size, tumor grade, estrogen receptor, progesterone receptor, and Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (P > 0.05). The mean survival time was 5 years and 45 days. Conclusion: No relationship was found between serum Vitamin D levels and the factors affecting the prognosis of nonmetastatic breast cancer. The Cox analysis showed that the survival time was not influenced by Vitamin D as a prognosis factor.

Background: Depression is one of the most common neuropsychiatric symptoms in Parkinson's disease (PD). There is little evidence to guide depression treatment in these patients. The aim of this study was to compare citalopram and pramipexole in reducing depressive symptoms in patients with PD. Materials and Methods: In the present 8-week randomized trial, we compared the efficacy of pramipexole versus citalopram in the treatment of depression in PD patients. For this purpose, 44 PD patients with depression randomly received open-label oral citalopram tablets or pramipexole and their depression, quality of life, and daytime sleepiness scores were evaluated at baseline and after the 8-week trial period. Results: The median age of the patients was 64 years, and about 85% of them were male in both groups. The Beck Depression Inventory score, Parkinson's disease summary index (PDSI), and Epworth Sleepiness Scale were significantly decreased (P < 0.05) in both citalopram and pramipexole groups throughout this period and without significant difference (P > 0.05) between these two groups, except for PDSI score which showed significant improvement in pramipexole group compared with citalopram group (P < 0.0001, r = 0.319). There were neither serious adverse effects nor treatment discontinuation due to the adverse effects. Conclusion: The results indicated that both citalopram and pramipexole were effective in the alleviation of depression and improving the quality of life in PD patients; however, pramipexole was seemed to be slightly more beneficial on quality of life in these patients. Therefore, pramipexole seems to be an effective treatment for depression in addition to its benefits for motor symptoms of PD patients.

Background: The main composition of intestinal microbiota in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) patients has not yet been elucidated. In this, case-control study, we identified differences of intestinal microbiota in male patients with NAFLD, presumed NASH, and healthy controls. Materials and Methods: We compared gut microbial composition of 25 patients with NAFLD, 13 patients with presumed NASH, and 12 healthy controls. Demographic information as well as clinical, nutritional, and physical activity data was gathered. Stool and blood samples were collected to perform the laboratory analysis. The taxonomic composition of gut microbiota was assessed using V4 regions of microbial small subunit ribosomal Ribonucleic acid genes sequencing of stool samples. Results: Firmicutes, Actinobacteria, and Bacteroidetes were the most frequently phyla in all groups. Our results revealed that Veillonella was the only genus with significantly different amounts in presumed NASH patients compared with patients with NAFLD (P = 2.76 × 10⁻⁶, q = 2.07 × 10⁻⁴, logFC = 5.52). Conclusion: This pilot study was the first study to compare gut microbial composition in patients with NAFLD and presumed NASH in the Middle East. Given the potential effects of gut microbiota on the management and prevention of NAFLD, larger, prospective studies are recommended to confirm this study's findings.

In recent years, some studies have evaluated the epidemiologic factors associated with breast density. However, the variant and inconsistent results exist. In addition, breast density has been proved to be a significant risk factor associated with breast cancer. Our review summarized the published studies and emphasized the crucial factors including epidemiological factors associated with breast density. In addition, we also discussed the potential reasons for the discrepant results with risk factors. To decrease the incidence and mortality rates for breast cancer, in clinical practice, breast density should be included for clinical risk models in addition to epidemiological factors, and physicians should get more concentrate on those women with risk factors and provide risk-based breast cancer screening regimens.

Background: The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of melatonin supplementation along with nonsurgical periodontal therapy (NSPT) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and chronic periodontitis (CP). Materials and Methods: The present study was a double-blind clinical trial. Fifty diabetic patients with periodontitis were randomly allocated to control (n = 25) and intervention groups (n = 25). Two tablets of 250 mg melatonin (6 mg net melatonin) or placebo were received by the intervention or control groups once a day for 8 weeks. Fasting blood glucose (FBG), glycosylated hemoglobin levels (HbA1c), lipid profile, systolic and diastolic blood pressure (SBP and DBP), anthropometric indices including weight, waist and hip circumference (WC and HC), and body mass index (BMI) were measured in patients at the beginning and end of the intervention. Results: Forty-four patients (22 patients in each group) completed the study. In the intervention group, a significant reduction was observed in HbA1c (P = 0.004), weight, BMI, WC, HC (all P < 0.001), DBP (P = 0.017), and SBP (P = 0.006). The high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol was significantly increased in the intervention group after the intervention (P = 0.007). Moreover, after the adjustment of confounding factors, the mean changes of HbA1c (mean difference: −1.30, confidence interval [CI]: −2.41–−0.19, P = 0.02), weight (mean difference: −3.90, CI: −5.30–2.50, P < 0.001), WC (mean difference: −1.37, CI: −2.19–−0.55, P = 0.002), BMI (mean difference: −1.41, CI: −1.92–−0.89, P < 0.001), HC (mean difference: −3.55, CI: −4.74–−2.35, P < 0.001), and SBP (mean difference: −1.24, CI: −2.41–−0.06, P = 0.03) improved significantly in the intervention group by comparison with the control group. No side effects were reported during the study. Conclusion: The adjunct therapy of NSPT and melatonin may be useful in controlling the glycemic index, lipid profile, BP, and weight in T2DM with CP.

Background: Violence Risk Screening Tool-10 (V-Risk-10) is one of the few instruments available for violence risk assessment in patients with a psychiatric diagnosis. The present study aimed to validate the Persian version of this instrument in patients admitted to the psychiatric ward. Materials and Methods: Eighty patients referred to a psychiatric hospital were enrolled in this cross-sectional methodological study. In the initial phase, seven senior psychiatry residents rated 20 cases independently at the time of their admission and total scale and subscale reliability were examined. Intraclass correlation coefficients were used to assess the inter-rater reliability. After initial confirmation of V-RISK-10 reliability, a senior psychiatry resident assessed 80 patients with V-RISK-10 in the emergency room. The incident of violent behaviors was recorded during the patients' admission period. The receiver operator characteristics curve (ROC-curve) analysis was used to measure the predictive accuracy of the instrument. The convergent validity was assessed by comparing V-RISK-10 scores between the three risk categories and the three outcome recommendations according to clinicians' overall clinical judgment. Results: A Cronbach's alpha coefficient was 0.99 for the total scale. During the research period, 47.5% of patients demonstrated various degrees of aggression and violent behavior. The ROC area under the curve was 0.89 (P < 0.001) with 87% sensitivity, 69% specificity, 72% positive predictive value, and 85% negative predictive value at the cutoff point of 8.5. Conclusion: Results indicate that the Persian version of V-Risk-10 is a reliable and valid screening tool for violence risk in patients who are admitted into psychiatric wards.

Background: The present study aimed at determining and comparing the prognostic value and the relationship of neutrophil-to-lymphocyte and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratios (PLRs) with acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD). Materials and Methods: The present case–control study was performed on 100 chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients and 100 healthy subjects (controls). Age, gender, and laboratory results of complete blood count tests including lymphocyte count, neutrophil count, platelet count, hemoglobin level, neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), PLR, C-reactive protein (CRP), and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) were obtained from the patient report and then recorded. The mentioned information was also completed for the control group. Following hospitalization, the patients that were discharged with clinically stable general status were re-examined, and the aforementioned laboratory information was rerecorded. Results: The results of the present study revealed that NLR with the sensitivity and specificity of 83.00% (74.2%–89.8%) and 93.00% (86.1%–97.1%) (cutoff value of 2.3), PLR with the sensitivity and specificity of 56.00% (46.0%–66.3%) and 83.00% (74.2%–89.8%) (cutoff value of 135.8), white blood cell (WBC) with the sensitivity and specificity of 69.00% (57.7%–77.8%) and 78.00% (68.6%–85.7%) (cutoff value of 8.5 × 103 μl), ESR with the sensitivity and specificity of 84.00% (75.3%–90.6%) and 99.00% (94.6%–100.0%) (cutoff value of 7.8), and CRP with the sensitivity and specificity of 52.00% (41.8%–62.1%) and 81.00% (71.9%–88.2%) (cutoff value of 1.9), respectively, had a significant prognostic value of AECOPD (P < 0.001). In addition to NLR had higher area under the curve (AUC) than PLR, WBC, and CRP. Therefore NLR had a better diagnostic value than the above three markers (P < 0.001). ESR also has higher AUC levels compared to PLR, WBC, and CRP and has a statistically better diagnostic value than them (P < 0.001), but did not differ significantly from ESR (difference between AUC: 0.02; P = 0.059). Conclusion: According to the results of the current study, NLR and PLR had a significant direct relationship with the two main markers of ESR and CRP, and both ratios had a significant prognostic value in AECOPD.

Background: The inflammatory and metabolic responses to mushroom in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) are unknown. The study aimed to evaluate the effect of Hot Air-dried White Button Mushroom (HAD-WBM) powder on glycemic status, lipid profile, inflammatory markers, and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) in T2DM patients. Materials and Methods: This randomized controlled trial was conducted at Golestan Hospital, Ahvaz, Iran. Eligible patients were adults aged 20–50 with Type 2 diabetes. Patients were assigned to each group using a randomized block design with block randomization (n = 22, in each group). Randomization was performed by an assistant and group allocation was blinded for the investigator and participants. The intervention and control groups received 16 g/day HAD-WBM or cornstarch powder for 8 weeks. The primary outcomes of interest were fructosamine, fasting blood sugar (FBS), insulin, homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance, and secondary outcomes were triglyceride, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), high-density lipoprotein, very-LDL, cholesterol, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), interleukin 6 (IL-6), and TAC. Results: After 8 weeks, a significant decrease was observed in fructosamine (−0.228 ± 0.36 vs. 0.03 ± 0.38; P = 0.02) and LDL (−13.05 ± 20.67 vs. 0.81 ± 21.79; P = 0.04) in the HAD-WBM group compared to the control group. No significant changes were observed in fasting insulin and FBS between the two groups. However, a significant within-group reduction (−28.00 ± 42.46; P = 0.006) was observed for FBS in the HAD-WBM group. In the HAD-WBM group, insulin resistance reduced significantly at the end of the study (From 4.92 to 3.81; P = 0.016), but it was not significantly different between the two groups. There was no significant difference in TAC, hs-CRP, and IL-6 between the two groups. Conclusion: Considering the results of this study about the beneficial effects of HAD-WBM on the improvement of glycemic indices and LDL in T2DM patients, it is recommended that HAD-WBM could be used to control T2DM.

Background: Available data suggest that obesity is related to changes in the several adipocyte-derived proteins levels, which are involved in cancer recurrence. The purpose of this work was to investigate the correlation between obesity with metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9), adiponectin and adiponectin and AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) levels by comparing serum levels of MMP-9, AMPK in normal weight and obese breast cancer survivors. Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 30 normal weight breast cancer survivors (body mass index [BMI] 18.5-25 kg/m²) and 30 obese breast cancer survivors (BMI ≥30 kg/m²) were investigated. Anthropometric parameters and serum levels of MMP-9, adiponectin, and AMPK were compared between the two groups. Results: No differences were detected in the serum levels of MMP-9, adiponectin, and AMPK in obese patients and normal weight patients (P > 0.05). There were no correlations between MMP-9, adiponectin, and AMPK levels with anthropometric measurements in two groups (P > 0.05). Conclusion: We found that there was a lack of correlation between obesity measures and serum levels of MMP-9, adiponectin, and AMPK. In breast cancer survivors, it seems that circulating levels of adiponectin, AMPK, and MMP-9 do not change in obesity state.

Background: Streptococcus mutans involved in caries pathogenesis is classified into four serotypes, namely serotypes c, e, f, and k. Candida albicans can be found in the plaque of children with early childhood caries (ECC). Aims: The aim of this study was to analyze the quantity of the antigens of S. mutans serotype e and C. albicans and its correlation with the salivary flow rate in ECC. Materials and Methods: The antigen quantities of caries plaque samples and caries-free were determined using an enzyme-linked immunoassay with 450-nm optical density. Results: There was a significant difference between the quantity of S. mutans serotype e and C. albicans antigens in each salivary flow rate category (P < 0.05). The relationship between the antigen quantity of S. mutans serotype e and C. albicans was r = 0.624 (P > 0.05) for caries plaque samples and r = 0.628 (P > 0.05) for caries-free samples. Conclusion: the antigen quantities of S. mutans serotype e and C. albicans and the salivary flow rate might correlate to the pathogenesis of ECC.

Background: This study aimed to determine changes in microvascular endothelial function with upper arm arteriovenous fistula (AVF) creation and maturation in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Materials and Methods: This prospective cross-sectional study was performed at Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia, a tertiary hospital in Malaysia. Forty CKD patients (stage 4–5) who were scheduled for elective AVF creation over the upper extremity for maintenance hemodialysis were recruited using convenience sampling method. Microvascular endothelial-dependent vasodilation was measured using laser Doppler flowmetry and the process of iontophoresis preoperatively and postoperatively at weeks 2 and 6. Fistula maturation was assessed at week 6. Results: Thirty-two patients had successful AVF maturation. Endothelial-dependent vasodilation (acetylcholine (Ach)%) was higher (246.48 [standard deviation (SD) 209.38] vs. 104.95 [SD 43.29], P = 0.001) while systolic blood pressure was lower (142.25 [SD 21.50] vs. 162.25 [SD 13.26], P = 0.017) in this group as compared to unsuccessful AVF group. No significant changes were seen in overall microvascular endothelial-dependent vasodilation during the 6-week study period (day 0, 246.48 [SD 209.38]; week 2, 201.14 [SD 198.19]; and week 6, 203.53 [SD 145.89]). Conclusion: Upper arm AVF creation does not affect microvascular endothelial function up to 6 weeks post operation and may not contribute to the success of AVF maturation. However, the lower microvascular endothelial-dependent vasodilation and higher systolic blood pressure in unsuccessful AVF subjects need to be further studied.

Background: Plaque instability is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in coronary artery disease (CAD) patients. Numerous efforts have been made to figure out and manage unstable plaques prior to major cardiovascular events incidence. The current study aims to assess the values of the atherogenic index of plasma (AIP) to detect unstable plaques. Materials and Methods: The current case-control study was conducted on 435 patients who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention due to chronic stable angina (stable plaques, n = 145) or acute coronary syndrome (unstable plaques, n = 290). The demographic, comorbidities, chronic medications, biochemical and hematological characteristics of the patients were entered into the study checklist. The baseline AIP was measured according to the formula of triglycerides/high-density lipoprotein logarithm. Binary logistic regression was applied to investigate the standalone association of AIP with plaque instability. Receiver operating curve (ROC) was depicted to determine a cut-off, specificity, and sensitivity of AIP in unstable plaques diagnosis. Results: AIP was an independent predictor for atherogenic plaque unstability in both crude (odds ratio [OR]: 3.677, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.521–8.890; P = 0.004) and full-adjusted models (OR: 15, 95% CI: 2.77–81.157; P = 0.002). According to ROC curve, at cut-point level of 0.62, AIP had sensitivity and specificity of 89.70% and 34% to detect unstable plaques, respectively (area under the curve: 0.648, 95% CI: 0.601–0.692, P < 0.001). Conclusion: According to this study, at the threshold of 0.62, AIP as an independent biomarker associated with plaque instability can be considered a screening tool for patients at increased risk for adverse events due to unstable atherosclerotic plaques.

Background: Despite the availability of iron chelators, toxicity due to increased iron load is the leading cause of death in thalassemia major patients, especially in Iran. This study was performed to determine the association between cardiovascular magnetic resonance using T2-weighted sequences (CMR T2*) and diagnostic value of echocardiographic arterial elasticity in major beta-thalassemia patients without cardiac symptoms in Isfahan, Iran, in 2019 and 2021. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study assessed the association between CMR T2*, advanced echocardiographic arterial elasticity criteria, and serum ferritin in 67 patients with major beta-thalassemia patients without cardiac symptoms at Chamran Cardiovascular, Medical, and Research Center in Isfahan, Iran, in 2019–2021. Data analysis was performed among the 67 patients using SPSS, version 24.0 (Statistical Procedures for Social Sciences, Chicago, Illinois, USA). Spearman's rank test was used to assess the correlation between T2*CMR, echocardiographic arterial elasticity criteria, and ferritin. All parameters are presented as mean ± standard deviation. The results were considered statistically significant at P < 0.05. Results: There was a positive correlation between CMR T2* and arterial elastance index (P = 0.035, r = 0.258), according to the Spearman test. In addition, CMR T2* was not correlated with the serum ferritin (P = 0.158, r = 0.201). Conclusion: Totally, according to the obtained results, it may be concluded that the arterial elastance index from echocardiography and the CMR T2* may be indicators of myocardial iron overload in patients with major beta-thalassemia patients without cardiac symptoms.

Background: Since December 2019, the world is struggling with an outbreak of coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) infection mostly represented as an acute respiratory distress syndrome and has turned into the most critical health issue worldwide. Limited information is available about the association between dynamic changes in the naso/oropharyngeal viral shedding in infected patients and biomarkers, aiming to be assessed in the current study. Materials and Methods: This quasi-cohort study was conducted on 31 patients with moderate severity of COVID-19 manifestations, whose real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) test was positive for severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) RNA at baseline. RT-PCR was rechecked for patients every 3–4 days until achieving two negative ones. In parallel, biomarkers, including lymphocyte count, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and C-reactive protein (CRP), were assessed every other day, as well. Viral shedding also was assessed. Results: Spearman's correlation test revealed a significant direct correlation between the viral shedding from the symptom onset and the time, in which CRP (P = 0.0015, r = 0.54) and LDH (P = 0.001, r = 0.6207) return to normal levels after symptom onset, but not for lymphocyte count (P = 0.068, r = 0.34). Conclusion: Based on the current study's findings, the duration of SARS-CoV-2 RNA shedding was directly correlated with the required time for LDH and CRP return to normal levels. Therefore, these factors can be considered the determinants for patients' discharge, isolation, and return to social activities; however, further investigations are required to generalize the outcomes.

Background: This study aims to evaluate the effect of symbiotic (Pedilact) on the treatment of infantile colic. Materials and Methods: In this randomized clinical trial in Zanjan, Iran, 76 infants with infantile colic were assigned to two groups of 38 cases using block randomization. The intervention group received 5 drops of Pedilact, a symbiotic containing Lactobacillus reuteri and simethicone (20 mg twice daily), and the control group received placebo in addition to simethicone for 4 weeks. Daily crying time, number of crying attacks per day, and sleep duration were recorded on days 1, 7, 14, 21, and 28, and the results were compared. Results: Thirty-three infants in the intervention group and 35 infants in the control group were enrolled. There was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of age, gender, gestational age, maternal age, type of delivery, type of feeding, and weight at the beginning and the end of the study (all P > 0.05). Daily crying time in the control and intervention groups decreased from 240 and 210 min/day, respectively, to 0 min/day in both the groups. Daily crying attacks decreased from 5 and 4/day in the control and intervention groups, respectively, to 0/day. Sleep duration in both the groups increased from 720 to 840 and 930 min/day in the control and intervention groups, respectively, but the changes were not significant (P = 0.56, P = 0.52, and P = 0.13, respectively). Conclusion: We did not find a significant improvement in colic symptoms in infants receiving symbiotic compared to placebo.

Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) comprise of various heart and blood vessels-related diseases. Acute coronary syndrome (ACS) is one of them. Basic researchers and cardiologists have witnessed landmark developments related to ACS and despite rapid refinement in our understanding; scientists are seeking answers for more questions. Scientists have mapped wide ranging proteins and intricate protein networks which play central role in the pathogenesis in ACS. In this review, we have attempted to summarize underlying causes of ACS. Better understanding of the disease pathology will enable us to get a step closer to an effective clinical management.

Background: The objective of this study was to evaluate the antibiotic resistance pattern of Helicobacter pylori strains isolated from patients in Isfahan province. Materials and Methods: Gastric antrum biopsy specimens of patients undergoing endoscopy were cultured. The samples with the growth of H. pylori underwent antibiotic susceptibility test by disk diffusion method. Reaults: Of 96 samples, 50 samples (53%) were positive for H. pylori. The rates of antibiotic resistance were as follows: amoxicillin, 6%; azithromycin, 20%; furazolidone, 22%; levofloxacin, 16%; metronidazole, 20%; rifampin, 12%; and tetracycline, 22%. Conclusion: H. pylori strains in our area have high rates of resistance to azithromycin, levofloxacin, metronidazole, tetracycline, and furazolidone.

Background: The ratio of partial pressure of oxygen in arterial blood (PaO2) to the fraction of inspiratory oxygen concentration (FiO2) is an indicator of pulmonary shunt fraction. PaO2/FiO2 (P/F) ratio is used to classify severity of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). With the same shunt fraction, P/F ratio decreases with increases in FiO2 which may lead to errors in classifying severity of ARDS. The effect of FiO2 on P/F ratio has not been investigated in COVID-19 pneumonia. In this study, we estimated the best FiO2 for the calculation of P/F ratio in a sample of patients with ARDS due to COVID-19 pneumonia. Materials and Methods: Blood gas and ventilatory data of 108 COVID-19 ARDS patients were analyzed in a cross-sectional observational study. Using Oxygen Status Algorithm the calculated shunt fraction served a basis for calculating P/F ratio for different FiO2. The severity of ARDS determined by P/F ratios at each FiO2s was compared with the shunt-based severity to find the optimum FiO2 for calculation of P/F ratio so the resulting classification has the best match with the reference classification. Results: A FiO2 of 1.0 for calculation of P/F ratio and ARDS classification showed the best match with shunt-based ARDS classification. A regression model was obtained with the PaO2, patient's original FiO2, Hemoglobin concentration, and SaO2 as the independent predictors of the P/F ratio for the FiO2 of 1.0. Conclusion: This study shows a FiO2 of 1.0 as the best value for correct calculation of P/F ratio and proper classification of ARDS.

Background: Our objective was to determine the overall prevalence of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in women with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) in our sample population. The second aim was to evaluate the predictive value of body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), and visceral fat for the onset of NAFLD in these patients. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was performed on 71 women with PCOS who were referred to Arash Women's Hospital in Tehran. Demographic and clinical information and anthropometric and biomedical indices were collected by a trained nurse. Liver ultrasonography was performed for all participants by a radiologist. Results: NAFLD was identified in 53.5% (n = 38) of subjects and the frequency of mild, moderate, and severe grades were 65.8%, 31.6%, and 2.6%, respectively. BMI and visceral fat of patients with NAFLD were significantly higher than non-NAFLD (P < 0.001). Receiving operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis revealed that BMI was the best indicator of predicting NAFLD (cutoff = 25.5 kg/m², sensitivity 75%, and specificity 75%), whereas visceral fat (cutoff = 5.5%, sensitivity 79%, and specificity 67%) and WC (cutoff = 89.5 cm, sensitivity 73%, and specificity 64%) were inferior for predicting NAFLD in PCOS patients. Conclusion: The prevalence of NAFLD in the study population is high. Our findings supported the use of BMI as a simple and practical predictive factor for the NAFLD onset, with a cutoff level of 25.5. The use of this cutoff level will enable physicians to identify PCOS patients at risk for NAFLD.

Background: Methicillin resistance Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is one most important pathogens for human health. The ability of this organism for producing different kinds of disease is related to its virulence gene. The frequency of hemolysin alpha (hla), hemolysin beta (hlb), and exfoliative toxin A (eta) virulence genes of MRSA was evaluated, and the association of these genes with antibiotics susceptibility was investigated. Materials and Methods: In a cross-sectional study, a total of 695 Staphylococcus clinical samples from seven different provinces of Iran were evaluated. MRSA was detected by cefoxitin disk. Virulence genes were detected by polymerase chain reaction. Susceptibility to clindamycin and ciprofloxacin was evaluated according to the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute guideline. Results: From a total of 695 samples, 170 (24.46%) were found to be MRSA. 142, 82, and 132 samples of MRSA were hla, hlb, and eta positive, respectively. hla gene was significantly found more frequently in patients at least 18 years (P = 0.02). 105 (68.6%) and 93 (59.6%) of MRSA samples were resistance to ciprofloxacin and clindamycin, respectively. hlb gene was significantly more resistant to clindamycin (P = 0.04) and ciprofloxacin (P = 0.01). Logistic regression analysis displayed hlb-positive MRSA strains were significantly associated with ciprofloxacin (odds ratio [OR]: 3.6, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.637–8.00) and clindamycin (OR: 1.93, 95% CI 1.00–3.68). Conclusion: MRSA strains from Staphylococcus aureus which isolated from hospitalized Iranian patients are significantly resistant to clindamycin and ciprofloxacin and it is may be because of hlb virulence gene. These samples consist of both community-acquired MRS) and health-care associated MRSA, so we could not use this finding as a guide for local antibiotics usage.

Background: Patients with moderate-severe left ventricular systolic dysfunction undergoing coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery are at high risk of mortality and morbidity. Our aim is to evaluate the right ventricular (RV) diastolic function in these patients, and monitor its effects on postoperation outcomes. Materials and Methods: In a cohort study, patients with moderate-severe left ventricular systolic dysfunction (ejection fraction ≤35%) who were candidate for CABG were included. Baseline transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) was performed, and RV diastolic function measures were obtained. After CABG, the length of intubation, inotrope dependency, hospital stay in intensive care unit and ward, in-hospital and after discharge mortality, postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF) were evaluated in all patients. Results: Sixty-seven patients were prospectively included in the study. The mean ± standard deviation age of our patients was 61.4 ± 9.3. There was no difference between grades of RV diastolic function and postoperative outcomes. However, we found significant difference between grades of RV diastolic function and onset of in hospital, and total POAF (P-value = 0.017). Multivariate analysis demonstrated that preoperative tricuspid E_t/E'_t (ratio of peak early-diastolic flow rate across the tricuspid valve orifice to peak early-diastolic velocity at the lateral tricuspid annulus), left atrial volume and “high risk” Euroscore II were independent predictors for POAF during hospitalization and total POAF in patients with moderate to severely impaired left ventricular systolic function (P-values were 0.04, 0.003 and 0.001, respectively). Conclusion: We believe that patients with increased tricuspid E_t/E'_t are high risk for POAF; therefore, any risk score for POAF should include a comprehensive TTE including evaluation of RV diastolic function before surgery.

Background: Since the beginning of the coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, concerns raised by the growing number of deaths worldwide. Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and extrapulmonary complications can correlate with prognosis in COVID-19 patients. This study evaluated the association of systemic complications with mortality in severely affected COVID-19 patients. Materials and Methods: This retrospective study was done on 51 intensive care unit (ICU)-admitted COVID-19 adult patients who were admitted to the ICU ward of Khorshid hospital, affiliated with Isfahan University of Medical Sciences. Only the patients who had a definite hospitalization outcome (dead vs. survivors) were included in the study. Daily clinical and paraclinical records were used to diagnose in-hospital complications in these patients. Results: The sample was comprised of 37 males (72.5%) and 14 females (27.4%). The median age of patients was 63 years (Min: 20, Max: 84), with the mortality rate of 47.1%. In total, 70.6% of patients had at least one coexisting disorder. Chronic kidney disease was associated with the worse outcome (29.16% of dead patients against 3.70 of survived ones). Mechanical ventilation was used in 58.8% of patients. Patients who had received invasive ventilation were more likely to die (87.50% of dead patients against 7.40 of survivors), Complications including sepsis and secondary infections (odds ratio: 8.05, confidence interval: 2.11–30.63) was the strongest predictors of mortality. Conclusion: Complications including sepsis and secondary infections can increase the risk of death in ICU-admitted COVID-19 patients. Therefore, it is substantial that the physicians consider preventing or controlling these complications.

Background: Acute severe organophosphorus pesticide poisoning (ASOPP) is one of the major diseases that endanger human life and health. However, the effects of conventional therapy including gastric lavages, mechanical ventilation, muscarinic antagonist drugs, and cholinesterase reactivators were uncertain. This meta-analysis aims to investigate the safety and efficacy of hemoperfusion combined with hemofiltration besides routine therapy for ASOPP. Materials and Methods: A comprehensive search for candidate publications was performed through PubMed, Medline, Cochrane Library, WanFang, Chinese Biomedical Literature, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure from database inception to May 12, 2020. The retrieved studies were screened by the predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. The data of important end points were extracted. The risk ratio (RR) and weighted mean difference (WMD) were pooled for categorical variables and continuous variables, respectively. Meta-analyses and publication bias were conducted by using STATA software version 15.1. Results: A total of 11 randomized controlled trials with 811 patients were included. Compared to conventional therapy group, patients in the hemoperfusion plus hemofiltration group were significantly superior with regard to mortality (RR 0.38, 95% confidence interval [CI] [0.25, 0.57], P < 0.001), total atropine dosing (WMD −147.34 mg, 95% CI [−199.49, −95.18], P < 0.001), duration of mechanical ventilation (WMD −2.34 days, 95% CI [−3.77, −0.92], P < 0.001), cholinesterase recovery time (WMD −2.49 days, 95% CI [−3.14, −1.83], P < 0.001), and length of stay (WMD −4.52 days, 95% CI [−5.31, −3.73], P < 0.001). Conclusion: Combined hemoperfusion and hemofiltration was a very safe and effective treatment protocol for ASOPP, not only resulting in significantly decreased mortality but also resulting in reduced total atropine dosing, duration of mechanical ventilation, cholinesterase recovery time, and length of stay.

Background: In this study, we summarized the data on gastrointestinal (GI) involvement and the potential association with clinical outcomes among the patients admitted to Khorshid Hospital. Materials and Methods: We investigated 1113 inpatients (≥18 years old) diagnosed with coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) from March to June 2020 in Khorshid Hospital. We collected demographic details, clinical information, vital signs, laboratory data, treatment type, and clinical outcomes from patients' medical records. The data of patients with GI symptoms were compared with those without GI symptoms. Results: A total of 1113 patients were recruited (male = 648). GI symptoms were observed in 612 (56.8%) patients (male = 329), the most common of which were nausea 387 (34.7%), followed by diarrhea 286 (25.7%), vomiting 260 (23.4%), and abdominal pain 168 (15.0%). The most prominent non-GI symptoms were cough 796 (71.5%), fever 792 (71.2%), shortness of breath 653 (58.7%), and body pain 591 (53.1%). The number of patients who were discharged, died, and were admitted to intensive care unit was significantly different in groups on the basis of GI and non-GI symptoms (P = 0.002, 0.009, 0.003). Conclusion: While COVID-19 was predominantly diagnosed in males, GI symptoms were more commonly reported by females. The results indicated that GI symptoms in COVID-19 patients are common, and the symptoms are not correlated with the severity of the disease. Moreover, the presence of GI symptoms was positively related to milder disease. Among COVID-19 positive patients, the clinical outcomes of the GI group were promising, compared to those of non-GI group.

Background: Neurological manifestations of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) have been highlighted. COVID-19 potentially increases the risk of thromboembolism. We aimed to compare patients with COVID-19 with and without new-onset acute ischemic stroke (AIS). Materials and Methods: In this single-center retrospective case–control study, demographics, clinical characteristics, laboratory findings, and clinical outcomes were compared between 51 patients with both COVID-19 and AIS (group A) and 160 patients with COVID-19 and without AIS (group B). Results: Patients in group A were significantly older, more likely to present with critical COVID-19 (P = 0.004), had higher rates of admission in the intensive care unit (P < 0.001), more duration of hospitalization (P < 0.001), and higher in-hospital mortality (P < 0.001). At the time of hospitalization, O₂ saturation (P = 0.011), PH (P = 0.04), and HCO3 (P = 0.005) were lower in group A. White blood cell count (P = 0.002), neutrophil count (P < 0.001), neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (P = 0.001), D-Dimer (P < 0.001), blood urea nitrogen (BUN) (P < 0.001), and BUN/Cr ratio (P < 0.001) were significantly higher in patients with AIS. Conclusion: Stroke in COVID-19 is multifactorial. In addition to conventional risk factors of ischemic stroke (age and cardiovascular risk factors), we found that patients with more severe COVID-19 are more prone to ischemic stroke. Furthermore, leukocyte count, neutrophil count, neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio, D-Dimer, BUN, and BUN/Cr ratio were higher in patients with AIS following COVID-19 infection.

Background: Atherosclerosis is the most common cause of the cardiovascular disease. Saffron is a traditional food that affects many diseases and disorders. Therefore, the aim of this study was to identify the effects of Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) on quality of life (QOL) and appetite in patients with atherosclerosis. Materials and Methods: This was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. A total of 63 participants with atherosclerosis were recruited from Emam Sajjad Hospital, Valiasr Hospital, and Zafaranieyh Clinic in Tehran, Iran. The participants were divided randomly into two groups. Participants received 100 mg/d saffron or placebo capsule for 6 weeks. QOL and appetite levels were measured by the McNew QOL questionnaire, and visual analog scale questionnaire, respectively. Furthermore, anthropometric indices of participants were measured before and after the intervention. Results: Statistical analysis showed that there was a statistically significant difference between atherosclerosis patients who received placebo and those who consumed saffron in terms of the physical domain (P = 0.008) and social domain (P = 0.012) of QOL. In the saffron group increased score in Total score Macnew (P < 0.001), physical domain (P = 0.025), and social domain (P < 0.001) was significant after the intervention. Moreover, the consumption of saffron did not significantly affect emotional domains of QOL, and appetite levels Conclusion: Saffron may be considered as a novel agent in patients with atherosclerosis to improve the QOL. A great deal of further research will be needed to critically validate the efficacy of saffron and its mechanisms in atherosclerosis.

Background: Many tools have been designed to measure mindfulness. Five Facets of Mindfulness Questionnaire (FFMQ) is one of the most widely used tools. This study was done to investigate psychometric properties FFMQ in Iranian students. Materials and Methods: FFMQ was translated into Persian and administered in 571 students of Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences and Tehran University of Medical Science. Samples were selected using convenience sampling method. A battery including Difficulty in Emotion Regulation Scale (DERS), Emotion Regulation Questionnaire (ERQ), Spielberger's Trait Anxiety Questionnaire, and Affect Control Scales was used in studies for examining divergent, convergent, and discriminant validity. Data were analyzed using Cronbach's alpha, test–retest reliability, and confirmatory factor analysis. Results: Results of this study supported the five-factor structure of FFMQ (root mean square error of approximation = 0.06, Comparative Fit Index = 0.81 Goodness of Fit Index = 0.91, and Normed Fit Index = 0.87). There was a significantly negative correlation between the FFMQ with DERS, Trait Anxiety, Affect Control, suppression sub-scale of ERQ, and there was a positive correlation with reappraisal subscale of ERQ. The Cronbach's alpha for the FFMQ was. 78. Conclusion: FFMQ have good psychometric properties in Iranian student sample, and it can be used in studies on student populations.

Background: Here, we aimed to investigate the therapeutic effects of Nigella sativa extract on serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and depression score in patients with depression. Materials and Methods: This clinical trial was performed in 2021 in the hospitals of military forces in Tehran on 52 male patients with major depressive disorder treated with sertraline. We used the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale-21 Items (DASS-21) questionnaire to assess the patients. Serum BDNF levels were measured by the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Patients were then divided into two groups receiving 1000 mg N. sativa oil extract, daily, and placebo. Both groups received sertraline for at least 3 months. DASS-21 questionnaire and serum BDNF levels were measured after 10 weeks. Results: After treatments, we observed significantly decreased DASS-21 score (−11.24 ± 5.69) in the intervention group (P < 0.001) and placebo (−2.72 ± 6.19, P = 0.032), but patients in the intervention group had significantly lower scores (50.1 ± 6.8 vs. 58.2 ± 5.6, respectively, P < 0.001). Furthermore, patients in the intervention group had significantly decreased depression score (−5.5 ± 2.47, P < 0.001) and lower scores compared to the placebo (P < 0.001) (18.6 ± 2.7 vs. 23.4 ± 2.1 in intervention and placebo, respectively). We also observed significantly increased BDNF levels in the intervention group after the treatments (6.08 ± 3.76, P < 0.001) compared to the placebo group (29.4 ± 3.6 vs. 24.9 ± 2.1, P < 0.001). Serum BDNF levels had also significant reverse correlations with DASS-21 score (r = −0.35, P = 0.011) and depression score (r = −0.45, P = 0.001). Conclusion: The use of N. sativa resulted in decreased depression score and increase in serum BDNF levels that indicate the importance and efficacy of this drug.

Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical, laboratory and imaging characteristics, and outcomes of hospitalized children with suspected COVID-19 infection in Isfahan. Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, all children aged < 15 years, who hospitalized as suspected case of COVID-19 were enrolled. During this study, all demographic, clinical, laboratory, and imaging characteristics as well as follow-up data and outcomes of the hospitalized children were recorded by pediatric residents using a questionnaire. The findings of studied populations in the two groups of definite/or suspected and negative COVID-19 patients were compared. Results: During 6 months' period, 137 children with suspected COVID-19 infection were evaluated. Mean age of studied population was 4.3 (0.38) years. The most common symptoms in order were fever, cough, dyspnea and diarrhea. The most common computed tomography scan findings were bilateral ground glass and subpleural involvements. The rate of mortality was 7.3%. COVID-19 polymerase chain reaction test was positive in 22% of the patients. Based on the specialist's diagnosis, 30/25 patients were definite/or suspected to COVID-19 and reminder (79) were negative. O2 saturation <90%, was significantly higher in children with definite/or suspected diagnosis for COVID-19 (46.7% vs. 22.4%, P < 0.05). Dyspnea and shivering were significantly higher in children with definite/or suspected diagnosis for COVID-19 than those negative for COVID-19(P < 0.05).Mean duration of hospitalization was significantly associated with level of lactate dehydrogenase (P < 0.05). Conclusion: The clinical, laboratory, and imaging findings of our studied population were similar to other studies, but outcome was not similar which may be due to our studied population (inpatients cases). It is suggested that a better understanding of the infection in children may give important insights into disease pathogenesis, health-care practices, and public health policies.

Background: COVID 19 may affect organs other than lungs, including liver, leading to parenchymal changes. These changes are best assessed by unenhanced computed tomography (CT). We aim to investigate the effect of COVID 19 on liver parenchyma by measuring the attenuation in CT scan Hounsfield unit (HU). Materials and Methods: A cohort of patients, who tested COVID 19 polymerase chain reaction positive, were enrolled and divided into two groups: fatty liver (FL) group (HU ≤ 40) and nonfatty liver (NFL) group (HU > 40) according to liver parenchyma attenuation measurements by high resolution noncontrast CT scan. The CT scan was performed on admission and on follow up (10–14 days later). Liver enzyme tests were submitted on admission and follow up. Results: Three hundred and two patients were enrolled. Liver HU increased significantly from 48.9 on admission to 53.4 on follow up CT scan (P<0.001) in all patients. This increase was more significant in the FL group (increased from 31.9 to 42.9 [P =0.018]) Liver enzymes were abnormal in 22.6% of the full cohort. However, there was no significant change in liver enzymes between the admission and follow up in both groups. Conclusion: The use of unenhanced CT scan for assessment of liver parenchymal represents an objective and noninvasive method. The significant changes in parenchymal HU are not always accompanied by significant changes in liver enzymes. Increased HU values caused by COVID 19 may be due to either a decrease in the fat or an increase in the fibrosis in the liver.

Fatigue is the most common symptom in multiple sclerosis (MS). Although MS-related fatigue (MS-F) strongly affects quality of life and social performance of patients, there is currently a lack of knowledge about its pathophysiology, which in turns leads to poor objective diagnosis and management. Recent studies have attempted to explain potential etiologies as well as treatments for MS-F. However, it seems that without a consensus on its nature, these data could not provide a route to a successful approach. In this Article, we review definitions, epidemiology, risk factors and correlated comorbidities, pathophysiology, assessment methods, neuroimaging findings, and pharmacological and nonpharmacological treatments of MS-F. Further studies are warranted to define fatigue in MS patients more accurately, which could result in precise diagnosis and management.

Background: second-generation antipsychotics (SGAs) are associated with metabolic side effects in child and adolescents. The aim of this study is to evaluate the metabolic effects of adding topiramate on aripiprazole in patients with bipolar disorder (BD) aged between 6 and 18 years. Materials and Methods: A 12-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized trial was conducted in the child psychiatric units of university hospitals. Forty patients aged between 6 and 18 years with new diagnosis of BD participated in the study. Eleven patients were excluded. Subjects received aripiprazole plus topiramate (Group 1, n = 15) or aripiprazole (Group 2, n = 14) for a 3-month period. Young mania rating scale (YMRS) was used for measuring the manic symptoms severity. Primary outcome measures included weight, height, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, abdominal circumference, and blood pressure. Secondary outcome measures included fasting blood glucose, hemoglobin A1C, fasting insulin, and fasting lipid profile. Changes in metabolic profile during the study were obtained by using repeated measures of variance. Results: During a 3-month follow-up, YMRS measures decreased significantly in both groups with a significant difference between groups (P < 0.05). The mean of weight, BMI, and high-density lipoprotein levels in group 2 were significantly increased (P < 0.05), and the mean of low-density lipoprotein level in group 1 was decreased (P < 0.05). No significant differences were observed in anthropometric parameters and metabolic indices between groups (P > 0.05). Conclusion: Adding topiramate on aripiprazole is effectivefor controlling bipolar disorder as well as metabolic adverse effects of SGAs in juvenile patients.

Background: Quarantine, an unpleasant experience, was implemented in many countries to limit the spread of Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), which it could associated whit lifestyle changes. The present study aimed to determine the changes in Iranian's lifestyle during COVID-19 pandemic. Materials and Methods: In the present cross-sectional study, 2710 Iranian people completed an online researcher-made questionnaire asking lifestyle regarding COVID-19, which includes five sections about physical activity, stress and anxiety, nutrition habit, sleep disorders, and interpersonal relationship in addition to demographic data from January to February 2021, using the multistage cluster sampling method. Results: The participants' mean age was 33.78 ± 11.50 years and 68.3% of them were female. Traveling, sightseeing, and family visits have been eliminated from 91%, 83.5%, and 77.5% of participants' lives, respectively. There were increase in stress level (P < 0.001), weight of the participants (P < 0.001), sleep problems (P < 0.001), and healthier foods (P < 0.001) but decrease in interpersonal communication (P < 0.001) and the amount of physical activity (P < 0.001). Conclusion: In summary, this study indicates some changes in lifestyle of Iranian people, including changes in some eating practices, physical activity, social communication, and sleeping habits during the pandemic. However, as the COVID-19 pandemic is ongoing, a comprehensive understanding of these behaviors and habits can help develop interventions to mitigate the negative lifestyle behaviors during COVID-19 pandemic.

Background: This scoping review aimed to investigate the status of breast cancer (BC) preventive behaviors and screening indicators among Iranian women in the past 15 years. BC, as the most common cancer in women, represents nearly a quarter (23%) of all cancers. Presenting the comprehensive view of preventive modalities of BC in the past 15 years in Iran may provide a useful perspective for future research to establish efficient services for timely diagnosis and control of the disease. Materials and Methods: The English and Persian articles about BC screening modalities and their indicators in Iran were included from 2005 to 2020. English electronic databases of Web of Science, PubMed, and Scopus, and Persian databases of Scientific Information Database (SID) and IranMedex were used. The critical information of articles was extracted and classified into different categories according to the studied outcomes. Results: A total of 246 articles were assessed which 136 of them were excluded, and 110 studies were processed for further evaluation. Performing breast self-examination, clinical breast examination, and mammography in Iranian women reported 0%–79.4%, 4.1%–41.1%, and 1.3%-45%, respectively. All of the educational interventions had increased participants' knowledge, attitude, and practice in performing the screening behaviors. The most essential screening indicators included participation rate (3.8% to 16.8%), detection rate (0.23–8.5/1000), abnormal call rate (28.77% to 33%), and recall rate (24.7%). Conclusion: This study demonstrated heterogeneity in population and design of research about BC early detection in Iran. The necessity of a cost-effective screening program, presenting a proper educational method for increasing women's awareness and estimating screening indices can be the priorities of future researches. Establishing extensive studies at the national level in a standard framework are advised

Background: Triple-negative breast cancer is a heterogeneous subtype of breast cancer. Claudin is an epithelial tight junctional protein, and also it is a receptor for clostridium perfringens enterotoxin and shows impairment of expression in several cancers. The chief purpose of this study is to assess the claudin-4 expression in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) Iranian patients and evaluate its correlation with some clinicopathological factors. Materials and Methods: In this study, 81 TNBC patients were evaluated for the claudin-4 expression by immunohistochemistry. The slides' staining intensity was examined and scored from 0 to 3. Then, slides were reviewed to assess the percentage of cells with membrane and cytoplasmic staining; the obtaining scores were 1–4. Finally, added the resulting two numbers from two stages, and the final number was a maximum of 7. Final scores of 0–3 were considered the low expression, and 4–7 were considered the high expression. Finally, the collected data were analyzed using the Chi-square test. Results: Eighty-one women with breast cancer and a mean age of 49 ± 12 years participated in the study. In 80% of the patients, there was a high expression of claudin-4 marker, and 20% had low expression. The expression level of the marker was not significantly correlated with age, tumor size, lymph node involvement, tumor grade, disease stage, Ki-67, and metastasis. Conclusion: The present study confirmed the high frequency of claudin-4 antigen expression in TNBC patients, and no significant correlation was observed between the expression of antigen and demographic or clinicopathological factors.

Background: Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the conspicuous causes of cancer-related death worldwide. Considering the mounting incidence of this cancer in developing countries such as Iran, determining the influential factors on the survival of involved patients is noteworthy. Hence, we aimed to ascertain the survival rates and the prognostic factors in our GC patients. Materials and Methods: In this retrospective cohort study, data of 314 patients with GC in a referral cancer center in Hamadan province of Iran were studied. The outcome of our study was survival time and the influential factors were gender, age at diagnosis, tumor history, tumor grade, surgery history, radiotherapy history, stage of disease, metastasis history, and lymph node involvement. Kaplan − Meier method and log-rank test were used for the calculation and comparing the survival curves and Cox-proportional hazard model was used for the multivariable analysis of prognostic factors. Results: In a total of 314 GC patients, the median age at the diagnosis was 63 years (range: 21–92) with most patients (74.84%) being males. The median follow-up time was 2.42 years, and the median survival time was 2 years. The multivariable cox analysis of overall survival (OS) indicated that having distant metastasis increased the hazard of death by about 2.5 times (P < 0.0001, heart rates [HR]: 2.53, 95% confidence interval [CI]: [1.71, 3.75]), and receiving surgery as treatment, decreased the hazard of death up to 36% (P = 0.02, HR: 0.64, 95%CI: [0.46–0.89]). The other variables did not have any significant effects on the OS. Conclusion: The results of this study showed that lower survival (greater hazard of death) strongly and significantly associated with having distant metastasis in patients with GC and receiving surgery could significantly decrease the hazard of death in these patients instead.

Background: This study aims to evaluate the association between demographic and smoking variables with the severity of lung function loss (Stage I to IV) and spirometry data in smokers. Materials and Methods: Three hundred and fifty smoker men over the age of 20 who had visited in AL-Zahra hospital were involved. Spirometry tests were performed for measuring forced vital capacity (FVC), FEV1, and FEV1%FVC. COPD was categorized into four stages by the (Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease) criteria of postbronchodilator FEV1/FVC <0.70. FEV1/FVC <70%, in combination with FEV1 ≥80% (Stage I), or 50%≤FEV1 <80% (Stage II), or 30%≤FEV1 <50% (Stage III), or FEV1 ≤30% (Stage IV). Independent t-test, Spearman correlation analysis was used for data analysis. To determine the predicting factors for pulmonary function multiple regressions analysis was performed. Results: 43 (19.5%) of men were defined as Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (COPD) which 7% of them were Stage I, 23.3% were Stage II, 39.5% were III and 30.2% were stage IV. In 60 (27.1%) of men, the index of Fev1/FVC was <80%. The criteria of PRIS in 74 (33.5%) of the patients and BDR in 59 (26.7%) of participation was positive. There were significant differences in the mean of FEV1 with respect to history of lung disease in relatives (P = 0.035), lung disease hospitalization (P < 0.001) and previous diagnosis of asthma variables (P < 0.001). The mean of FVC was significantly different in patients categorized based on lung disease hospitalization (P < 0.001) and previous diagnosis of asthma (P = 0.018). Furthermore, there was a significant difference in the mean of FEV1/FVC for variables as follows: Time to start smoking after waking up (P = 0.007), lung disease hospitalization (P < 0.001) and previous diagnosis of asthma (P < 0.001). There was a significant association between stages of lung function loss and age of onset of smoking (β-0.355 P = 0.019) and pack per year (β = 0.354 P = 0.02). A linear regression model showed that lung disease hospitalization and age were the influential variables on FEV1 with (B = −21.79 confidence interval [CI]: −28.7, −14.87, P < 0.001and B = −0.418 CI: −0.63, −0.21, P < 0.001), respectively. The only significant influential variable on FVC was lung disease hospitalization (B = −15.89 CI: −21.49, −10.296, P < 0.001). Body mass index, lung disease hospitalization, time to start smoking after waking up in the morning and age had significant relationship on FEV1/FVC with (B = 0.71CI: 0.32, 1.11, P < 0.001, B = −14.29, CI: −19.61,-8.97, P < 0.001, B = 6.54, CI: 2.26, 10.82, P = 0.003 and B = −0.44, CI: −0.59, −0.28, P < 0.001), respectively. Conclusion: The age of onset of smoking and pack-year appears to be associated with the severity of COPD. Hospitalization history due to lung disease, age, the time between waking up in the morning and first cigarette use, BMI, lung disease history in relatives, previous diagnosis of asthma have a negative relationship with lung function.

Background: The present study was performed to investigate and compare renal functions of single-kidney patients after 12 h of percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) surgery through assessing major markers of renal function with focus on serum level of cystatin that performs a consistent accuracy in various conditions. Materials and Methods: This pilot quasi-experimental study was done on 92 patients with single kidney having staghorn calculus who had undergone PCNL and were referred to the Al-Zahra Hospital, Isfahan, Iran, during 2019–2021. Serum levels of cystatin C, creatinine, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), and neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) urine level were evaluated before and 12 h after surgery. Results: The mean cystatin C decreased significantly 1.58 ± 0.55 versus mg/L 1.46 ± 0.52 after 12 h after surgery (P < 0.001). Furthermore, the mean levels of creatinine (2.04 ± 0.71 vs. 1.89 ± 0.60 mg/dL) and NGAL (39.72 ± 12.87 vs. 24.05 ± 10.89 μg/ml) were decreased significantly after 12 h of procedure (P < 0.05) while the mean eGFR (57.62 ± 27.59 vs. 64.68 ± 31.88 ml/min/1.73 m²) was increased significantly after 12 h (P < 0.001). Conclusion: Due to significant improvement in all markers of renal after PCNL, this procedure can be considered a potentially effective and safe approach for treating large stone in single-kidney patients.

Background: We aimed to investigate the prevalence of nephrocalcinosis (NC) among children with diagnosed congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH). Our findings would be helpful for earlier diagnosis, management, and prevention of NC-related complications. Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, children with CAH, aged <18 years old who were regularly referred for follow-up, were included. The information of the patients was extracted from their medical files, and they underwent renal ultrasonography for evaluation of the presence of NC. Results: From 120 studied patients with CAH, four patients (3.3%) had NC. The prevalence of NC was higher in males than females (P = 0.05). Mean age and age of CAH diagnosis had a trend to be lower in CAH patients with NC than those without. Regression analysis indicated significant association between NC and sex (P = 0.027, r = 2.24). Conclusion: The results of this study indicated a 3.3% prevalence rate of NC for children with CAH. NC had a trend to be more prevalent in male children with CAH. Though it was not significantly different but given that the mean age and age at diagnosis of CAH in children with CAH and NC was lower that CAH patients without NC, it is suggested that in patients with CAH and NC other factors such as genetic background or unknown disease related factors are associated with hypercalcemia and NC.

Background: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is one of the most dreadful viruses causing high mortality rates and serious damages to hepatocytes. The aim of this study was to assess the frequency, related causes/risk factors, and treatments of HBV infection in Iran by systematic review and meta-analysis. Materials and Methods: The data were obtained by a literature search in the PubMed, Scopus, SID, and Web of Sciences databases. Keywords included prevalence, risk factors, causes, treatment, and HBV. The Persian equivalents of these keywords were also searched. The time span included 2004 to2021. The Q and I² statistics were used to check heterogeneity among studies. The data were analyzed using Stata (version 14). Results: The frequencies of HBV infection and its pharmaceutical therapy were P = 6% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 4–9, I² = 95.2%, P < 0.001) and 19% (95% CI: 18%–30%, I² = 98.9%, P < 0.001), respectively. The most common risk factors/causes of HBV were narcotic consumption, blood-related factors, and transmission from infected individuals with the respective frequencies of 27% (95% CI: 16%–38%, I² = 88.7%, P < 0.001), 32% (95% CI: 11%–53%, I² = 99.8%, P < 0.001), 25% (95% CI: 10%–41%, I² = 99.3%, P < 0.001), and 15% (95% CI: 7%–22%, I² = 98.4%, P < 0.001), respectively. Conclusion: The most important causes of HBV infection were transmission from infected people, narcotic consumption, and blood-related factors. The main therapeutic intervention for HBV was pharmaceutical therapy.

Background: Mature inflammasome markers play a role in the development of Type 1 diabetes (T1D). This cross-sectional study aimed to derive ratios from the serum levels of interleukins (ILs): IL-1β and IL-18 and to relate their values with glycemic index and anti-inflammatory markers (IL-4 and IL-10) in children with T1D. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted at Hawler Medical University in Erbil-Iraq from April to July 2018. Healthy subjects (Group I, n = 40) and patients (Group II, n = 76) were recruited from primary schools and the Center of Diabetes in Erbil, respectively. Glycemic indices (including fasting serum glucose, insulin, glycosylated hemoglobin, and peptide C) and pro- and anti-inflammatory markers (including high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, IL-1β, IL-18, IL-4, and IL-10 and the ratio of neutrophil or platelet to lymphocyte) were determined. Results: Cutoff values of 105 pg/mL, 85 pg/mL, and 1.235 for serum IL-1β, IL-18, and IL-1β to IL-18 ratio, respectively, were found to be significant discriminators of glycemic index and anti-inflammatory markers with respect to the calculated area under the curve. Conclusion: A ratio of IL-1β to IL-18 adjusted to 1.235 can serve as a useful marker of assessment of glycemic index. This ratio does not discriminate the status of anti-inflammatory markers (IL-4 and IL-10) in children with T1D.

Background: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a growing health problem in Egypt, with a significant impact on morbidity and mortality. Measurement of the carotid Intima-media thickness (CIMT) allows early detection of atherosclerotic blood vessel diseases. Apelin is an adipose tissue-derived hormone that may be associated with insulin resistance (IR). This study aimed to assess the level of serum apelin in patients with T2DM and its relation to IR and CIMT. Materials and Methods: A case-control study was conducted on 60 patients with T2DM and 30 healthy controls. T2DM was diagnosed based on American Diabetes Association criteria. The study was carried out at Al-Zahraa University Hospital, Cairo, Egypt, through the period from June to December 2019. The laboratory investigations included serum apelin and blood glucose hemostasis markers. CIMT was assessed using B-mode ultrasonography. Results: Patients' group had a statistically significant higher apelin level than healthy controls (407.96 ± 291.07 versus 83.32 ± 10.55 ng/dL, P < 0.001). The correlation analysis showed that the serum apelin level correlated positively with glycemic indices, body weight, and waist circumference (P < 0.05). At cutoff value of >96 ng/dL, the serum apelin exhibited a sensitivity of 98.3% and specificity of 96.7%, positive predictive value of 98.1%, and negative predictive value of 96.5%, with a diagnostic accuracy of 95.1%. Serum apelin correlated positively with CIMT (r = 0.296, P = 0.022). Logistic regression analysis showed that systolic and diastolic blood pressures, Homeostasis Model Assessment of IR, and CIMT were independent predictors of serum apelin. Conclusion: Serum apelin may be correlated with the degree of carotid atherosclerosis and hence can be used as a prognostic biomarker.

Background: Ischemic heart disease and psychiatric disorders are among the leading causes of morbidity and mortality. Plans for providing basic health services to community members require knowledge of the current state. Therefore, the aim of this study was to systematically review the literature to estimate the prevalence of psychiatric disorders among patients with ischemic heart disease. Materials and Methods: In this study, PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science were systematically searched to find studies published before June 6, 2021. The systematic review included all original articles on the prevalence of psychiatric disorders among patients with ischemic heart disease. Two independent researchers evaluated the quality of studies, using the Joanna Briggs Institute questionnaire. All analyses were performed in Stata/MP version 16. A random-effects model was used for data analysis. Results: Of 1672 studies initially identified, 13 studies were included in our meta-analysis, with a total of 2233 participants. The overall prevalence of psychiatric disorders was estimated at 46.85% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 36.08–57.62; I² = 100%; P < 0.001 for heterogeneity). The most common disorder was depression (27.80%; 95% CI: 18.27–37.34; I² = 99.99%; P < 0.001 for heterogeneity). Based on the results, the prevalence of psychiatric disorders had increased by 25.55% from 2000 to 2021 compared to1984–2000. Conclusion: The prevalence of psychiatric diseases in people with ischemic heart disease is high and increases over time. It is recommended that preventive measures be taken worldwide.

Background: As the diagnostic criteria for psychosomatic research-structured interview (DCPR-SI) is a rater-assessed questionnaire, it has not been used vastly in community-based studies and clinics. Describing and investigating self-assessed form of DCPR are an attempt to apply it easier and more worthwhile for medical settings. The aim of this study was to describe and present self-assessed form of DCPR self-assessed (DCPR-SA) and test its validity and reliability. Materials and Methods: The DCPR-SI was translated to Persian according to the best practice methodology and the guideline for adaptation of self-report measures. In this cross-sectional study, 540 patients and healthy individuals were recruited and answered DCPR-SA and some related questionnaires. Inter-rater (test–interview) and test–retest reliability were determined. Construct, concurrent, discriminant, and known-group validity were tested. Results: The kappa coefficients were expressed substantial and almost perfect agreement (0.617–0.784, P ≤ 0.05). In addition, phi correlation coefficients were indicated adequate test–retest reliability for each cluster (0.548–0.754, P ≤ 0.05). Three domains (anxiety-related symptoms, functional symptoms, and dysfunctional traits and emotional patterns) were confirmed by factor analysis. The results of the discriminate validity analysis were promising. Conclusion: The findings show that the DCPR-SA is valid and reliable and can be used by medical professionals as a psychosomatic screening tool and can be used properly in Persian-speaking population.

Background: Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most common and malignant brain tumor. The current standard of care is surgery followed by radiation therapy (RT). Radiotherapy treatment plan evaluation relies on radiobiological models for accurate estimation of tumor control probability (TCP). This study aimed to assess the impact of obtained magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data before and 12 weeks after RT to achieve the optimum TCP model to improve dose prescriptions in radiation therapy of GBM. Materials and Methods:: In this quasi-experimental study, MR images and its relevant data from 30 patients consisting of 9 females and 21 males (mean age of 46.3 ± 15.8 years) diagnosed with GBM, whose referred for radiotherapy were selected. The data of age, gender, tumor size, volume, and signal intensity using analysis of MRI data pre- and postradiotherapy were used for calculating TCP. TCP was calculated from three common radiobiological models including Poisson, linear quadratic, and equivalent uniform dose. The impact of some radiobiological parameters on final TCP in all patients planned with three-dimensional conformal radiation therapy was obtained. Results: A statistically significant difference was found among TCP in Poisson model compared to the other two models (P < 0.001). Changes in tumor volume and size after treatment were statistically significant (P < 0.05). Different combinations of radiobiological parameters (α/β and SF₂ in all models) observed were meaningful (P < 0.05). Conclusion: The results showed that among TCP radiobiological models, the optimum is the Poisson. The results also identified the importance of TCP radiobiological models in order to improve radiotherapy dose prescriptions.

Background: Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) is one of the newest treatment strategies that has been developed rapidly to improve the treatment of patients with obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD). The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the effect of ACT and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) drugs on the severity of depression symptoms and quality of life (QOL) in obsessive–compulsive patients. Materials and Methods: A randomized clinical trial with a control group was conducted including 27 patients with OCD. Based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-5 criteria for OCD diagnosis, participants were recruited from Tamasha Counseling Center and obsessive–compulsive clinic in the Psychosomatic Research Center in Isfahan, Iran. Selected patients were allocated to two groups (14 in ACT the group and 13 in the drug group with SSRI with a simple random sampling method. ACT group was treated by an ACT therapist in eight 1-h sessions. Data were collected by the World Health Organization QOL Questionnaire (WHOQOL-BREF) and Depression subscale of DASS-42 at admission, after the intervention, and 3 months thereafter. Therapists and evaluators were blind to each other's work. Data were analyzed using analysis of variance with repeated measures method using IBM SPSS Statistics software (V 23, IBM Corporation, Armonk, NY, USA). Results: Results revealed that both treatments (ACT and SSRIs drug therapy) had significant impacts on reducing depression subscales scores and increasing WHOQOL-BREF scores at posttreatment (P < 0.05). There were no significant differences in QOL scores between the two groups after the intervention and follow-up (P > 0.05). Nevertheless, drug therapy presented a significantly greater improvement in depression scores of patients than those resulting from ACT (P = 0.005). The persistence of treatment effects continued after 3 months (follow-up) in both groups. Conclusion: ACT is equal to SSRIs drug therapy in terms of improving QOL in patients with OCD. However, SSRIs are more effective in treating depression in obsessive–compulsive patients. It may be presumed that ACT without any chemical side effect is equal to drug and is preferred for patients who either cannot use drugs or prefer not to have a drug treatment.

Background: Boswellia serrata oleo-gum-resin (frankincense; olibanum) has anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antimicrobial effects. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical effectiveness of frankincense extract in the treatment of oral aphthous ulcers. Materials and Methods: In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial, patients with aphthous ulcers were randomly assigned to either experimental (Frankincense extract) or placebo groups to use orally disintegrating tablets (ODT) of frankincense and placebo, respectively, four times a day for 3 days. The size of aphthous ulcers and the pain severity by visual analogue scale were recorded at days 0, 2, and 4 and compared between the groups. Results: Twenty-five patients in each group completed the study. Olibanum extract ODT significantly reduced the ulcer size on the second (P < 0.001) and fourth (P < 0.001) days as well as the pain score on the second (P = 0.002) and fourth (P < 0.001) days of the intervention compared to placebo. Furthermore, at the end of the intervention, the number of patients with complete ulcer healing and pain relief in the experimental group was significantly more than the placebo group (5 vs. 0, P = 0.02; and 11 vs. 0, P < 0.001, respectively). Conclusion: Taking olibanum extract ODTs reduces the ulcer size and pain severity and accelerates the healing process in the oral aphthous lesions.

Background: In this study, we aimed to evaluate whether waterpipe smoking can be associated with the transmission of Helicobacter pylori infection or not. Materials and Methods: Between March 2018 and April 2019, 445 patients aged over 18 years old who were admitted to outpatient clinics with dyspeptic complaints were recruited for the study. Patients are divided into two groups – Group 1 is H. pylori-positive patients and Group 2 is negative. Waterpipe smoking, smoking, age, gender, and educational status were compared among groups. Results: Two hundred and sixty-one women (58%) and 184 men (42%), totally 445 patients, tested for H. pylori infection. Seventy-nine of 261 (30%) women and 60 of 184 (32%) men had H. pylori positive. One hundred and sixty-two of 445 (36%) patients were smoking cigarette and 66 of 445 (14%) patients were using waterpipe tobacco. Waterpipe smoking individuals were found to be associated with the H. pylori positivity (P < 0.001); whereas, age, gender, educational level, and smoking were not found to be statistically significant (all P > 0.05). In binary logistic regression analysis, waterpipe tobacco smoking was found to be the only independent predictor of H. pylori infection (P < 0.001, odds ratio = 5.51, confidence interval: 3.158–9.617). Conclusion: Waterpipe smoking seems to be an important risk factor for H. pylori infection and may be one of the reasons of high prevalence of H. pylori infection.

Background: Suitable mechanical ventilation strategies can reduce the incidence and severity of ventilator-associated lung injury in patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). In this study, the effects of adaptive support ventilation (ASV) and synchronized intermittent mandatory ventilation (SIMV) on respiratory parameters and arterial blood gases (ABGs) parameters were compared in ARDS patients. Materials and Methods: Twenty-four patients were randomly divided into two groups of ASV and SIMV. Patients were followed up for 3 days, and respiratory parameters including rapid shallow breathing index (RSBI), spontaneous breathing rate (SBR), minute volume, and peak inspiratory pressure (PIP) as the primary outcomes and ABG parameters including PaO₂, FiO₂, PaCO₂, HCO₃, and PaO₂/FiO₂ ratio as the secondary outcomes were measured. Results: PIP in patients in the SIMV group on the 1^st day (P = 0.013), 2^nd day (P = 0.001), and 3^rd day (P = 0.004) was statistically significantly more compared to those in patients in the ASV group. RSBI, SBR, and minute volume between the ASV and SIMV groups during the 3 days were not statistically significantly different (P > 0.05). The mean arterial blood pressure, heart rate, PaO₂, and PH between both groups were similar (P > 0.05). At the end of the 2^nd and 3^rd days, the level of FiO₂ and PaCO₂ in ASV was significantly lower than those in ASV group. HCO₃ in each of the 3 days in the ASV group was statistically significantly lower than that in the SIMV group (P < 0.050). PaO₂/FiO₂ ratio in patients in the ASV group in the 3 days was statistically significantly higher than that in the SIMV group (P < 0.050). Conclusion: By reducing PIP and improving oxygenation and ABG parameters, ASV mode may be a safe and feasible mode during mechanical ventilation in patients with ARDS.

Unilateral lung collapse (ULC) is a clinical challenge in the intensive care unit and requires sophisticated treatment approaches, especially if the collapse continued over several hours. If not responded to ordinary measures such as postural drainage and bronchoscopy, it may require insertion of a double-lumen endotracheal tube and independent lung ventilation or high-pressure manual re-expansion of the collapsed lung which may result in lung injury. In this article, a safe and gradual re-expansion method using airway pressure release ventilation is presented for the treatment of a ULC.

Background: Functional abdominal pain (FAP) is a common complaint causing several referrals to pediatricians. On the other hand, the most common presentation of hyperuricosuria and also hypercalciuria is chronic/recurrent abdominal pain. Therefore, a hypothesis has been raised; abdominal pain due to hyperuricosuria and/or hypercalciuria may be misdiagnosed as FAP. The current study has aimed to respond to this theory. Materials and Methods: This is a case–control study conducted on children diagnosed with FAP based on Rome IV criteria and age-matched normal controls. Blood and random urine samples were taken from healthy children and those with FAP. Random urine samples were examined for calcium, uric acid, oxalate, and creatinine concentrations. Random urine calcium to urine creatinine above 0.2 mg/mg was considered hypercalciuria and random urine uric acid above 0.56 mg/dl, GFR as hyperuricosuria. The data were analyzed using logistic models. Results: Hypercalciuric children had a significantly lower chance of FAP (odds ratio [OR] =0.425, 95% confidence interval [CI] =0.204–0.886). Although an inverse association was seen between hyperuricosuria and FAP (OR = 0.693, 95% CI = 0.395–1.214), it was not statistically significant. In stratified analyses by gender for both hyperuricosuria and hypercalciuria, a marginal inverse significant association was seen in male gender (P < 0.1). Conclusion: Our study showed that hypercalciuria is significantly in inverse association with FAP but not hyperuricosuria. Therefore, these disorders, particularly hyperuricosuria may not be considered as the possible causes of FAP. Further studies with larger sample size for providing more reliable evidence are recommended.

Background: The adaptive immune system plays a role in the pathogenesis of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) has been reported previously. However, the association between airway and circulating autoantibodies (AAbs) levels is unclear. The aim of this study is to investigate the link between the AAb levels in airway and circulation in stable patients with IPF. Materials and Methods: From June 2016 to March 2017, 21 stable IPF patients and 22 healthy volunteers were recruited. We established Luminex interacting AAbs with bead-antigen complex to detect the immunoglobulin G antibodies levels of ten autoantigens which were matched serum (Se) and sputum (Sp) samples collected from recruited subjects, including Smith (Sm), Anti-ribosomal P antibody (P0), Sjögren syndrome type A antigen (SSA), La/Sjögren syndrome type B antigen (SSB), DNA topoisomerase (Scl-70), histidyl-tRNA synthetase (Jo-1), U1 small nuclear ribonucleoprotein (U1-SnRNP), thyroid peroxidase, Proteinase 3, and Myeloperoxidase. Spearman's rank correlation matrix was applied to explore the associations of Ab profiles between Se and Sp. Results: For IPF patients, Spearman's correlation matrix showed multiple intercorrelations among Sp-AAbs and Sp-AAbs (P < 0.05), while only the levels of AAb against Sm and anti-La in Se were correlated with those Sp-AAb counterparts (P < 0.05). For healthy individuals, only anti-La in Se was associated with those Sp-AAb counterparts (P < 0.05). For IPF patients, there was a positive correlation between carbon monoxide diffusing capacity (DL_CO)% predicted and Sp-anti-P0 level (r = 0.464, P = 0.034). Forced vital capacity% predicted was positively correlated with Sp-anti-Scl-70 level (r = 0.466, P = 0.033). Conclusion: Comparing to Se-AAbs, Sp-AAbs are more associated with clinical parameters in the patients with IPF. In order to better understand the role of autoimmunity in the pathogenesis of IPF, detection of Sp-AAbs for local autoimmune responses may be a good choice.

Background: The main aim of the study was to identify selected factors that determine patients with multiple sclerosis (MS') failure to take home therapeutic exercises (HTE) and other physical activity (OPA). Materials and Methods: The study was conducted using a self-completed online survey that was aimed at adult people diagnosed with MS, registered on the portal TacyJakJa.pl. In total, 335 persons were involved. Results: Almost half of all people who completed the survey (49.9%), reported that no one encouraged them to use HTE, and only 16.1% were encouraged by their doctor. As many as 51% of the respondents reported also that no one encouraged them to undertake OPA, and only 18.5% were encouraged by their doctor. As the most important reason for not using HTE, the respondents chose fear that exercises may worsen their condition (47.3%). However, the most important reason for not using the OPA was high fatigue (61.9%). The number of people exercising at home increased with age (P = 0.013). Those surveyed with relapsing–remitting MS significantly more often (P = 0.002) took up OPA (60.7%) than the respondents with a secondary progressive MS (10.0%) and a primary progressive (4.4%). Conclusion: Physicians relatively rarely encourage patients with MS to undertake HTE and OPA. The patients do not perform HTE primarily because of fears of health deterioration or fatigue. Undertaking HTE is influenced by age but undertaking other forms of physical activity by the type of MS. Actions should be taken to popularize HTE and OPA, especially HTE among young patients.

Background: Given the inadequate control of pain in patients with the trauma that refer to the emergency departments, the rapid onset of action of intranasal administration in pain management, and the avoidance of administering opioid medications, the present study aimed at evaluating the effect of intranasal ketamine versus intranasal fentanyl on pain management in isolated traumatic patients. Materials and Methods: The current study was performed on 125 patients that were divided into the following three groups: control group (n = 41), 1 mg/kg intranasal ketamine group (n = 40), and 1 μg/kg intranasal fentanyl group (n = 44). Then pain scores, heart rate, respiratory rate, blood pressure, and oxygen saturation were recorded at baseline, 5, 10, 15, 30, and 40 min after the intervention. Results: Visual analog scale (VAS) scores of patients in the intranasal ketamine group 5 and 10 min after the intervention were 61.50 ± 20.45 and 55.00 ± 21.96, respectively. The mentioned scores were significantly lower than the VAS scores of patients in the control group with the mean of 72.44 ± 22.11 and 66.59 ± 24.25 and the VAS scores of patients in the intranasal fentanyl group with the mean of 71.59 ± 22.09 and 65.00 ± 22.87 at 5 and 10 min after the intervention, respectively (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Given the onset of action in < 10 min, intranasal ketamine can be proposed as an appropriate analgesic medication in pain reduction of patients with isolated limb injuries. Moreover, the incidence rate and severity of adverse effects were insignificantly higher in the intranasal ketamine group as compared with the intranasal fentanyl group.