Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Public Health 2251-6085 37 3 2008 09 15 1 8 DD Farhud Genetic Clinic, Vallie Assr Sq, 16 Keshavarz Blvd, Tehran 14, Iran M Asghari Dept. of Nutrition, Iran University of Medical Science, Iran H Sadighi Genetic Clinic, Vallie Assr Sq, 16 Keshavarz Blvd, Tehran 14, Iran 2015 10 03 Collection of multiple processes that increase the chronological age of an organism leading to death is defined as aging, and even though important, it is poorly understood. Recent research has shown that aging is due to biochemical and genetic changes, in interaction with environmental effects, including diet and nutrition. Most knowledge on aging is based on ge­netic model system, but its molecular mechanisms are still not very clear. Discoveries in molecular biology have made way to look for candidate genes influencing lifespan. Furthermore, new investigations have stressed on the roles of mitochondria as the major generators and direct targets of reactive oxygen species. This paper reviews some recent literature on genes and ag­ing in model system, then discusses the role of mitochondria and nutrients in human aging. https://ijph.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijph/article/view/2028 https://ijph.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijph/article/download/2028/2009

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Public Health 2251-6085 37 3 2008 09 15 9 18 M Hashemzadeh Chaleshtori 1Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran DD Farhud Genetic Clinic, Valie Asr Sq., 16 Keshavarz Blvd., Tehran, Iran AH Crosby Dept. of Medical Genetics, St Georges Hospital Medical School, University of London, London, UK E Farrokhi Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran H Pour Jafari Dept. of Genetics, School of Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran K Ghatreh Samani Dept. of Clinical Chemistry, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran K Safa Chaleshtori Shahrekord Adminstration of Education and Training, Shahrekord, Iran M Kasiri Welfare Organization of Chaharmahal va Bakhtiari, Shahrekord, Iran M Shahrani Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran GR Mobini Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran M Mansouri Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran D Modarresinia Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran M Jafari Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran 2015 10 03 Background: Mutations of GJB2 gene encoding connexion 26 are the most common cause of hearing loss in many popula­tions. A very wide spectrum of GJB2 gene mutations associated with hearing loss have been detected but pathogenic role has been tested only for a part of them. In this study, we have provided genetic evidence on the pathogenicity of our previ­ously reported novel GJB2 allelic variants. Methods: The pathogenic role of GJB2 allelic variants were assessed using co segregation of each allelic variant with hear­ing loss in family members, absence of the allelic variants in control populations, coexistence with a second GJB2 mutation, na­ture of the amino acid substitution and evolutionary conservation of the appropriate amino acid. Results: The GJB2 allelic variants including 363delC, 327delGGinsA, H16R and G200R have been co segregated with auto­somal recessive non syndromic hearing loss in five families and are not found in control subjects. The G130V and K102Q were found in heterozygous state in two deaf individuals. G130V results in an exchange a residue highly conserved among all the connexins but was found with a rate of 1% in control subjects and K102Q results in an exchange a residue not con­served among all the connexins and not identified in control subjects. Conclusion: We conclude that, 363delC, 327delGGinsA, H16R and G200R may be pathogenic. However, the pathogenic­ity and inheritance of K102Q and G130V can not be assessed clearly and remains to be identified. https://ijph.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijph/article/view/2029 https://ijph.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijph/article/download/2029/2010

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Public Health 2251-6085 37 3 2008 09 15 19 28 M Moradi-Marjaneh Iranian Academic Center for Education, Culture & Research (A.C.E.C.R), Mashhad Branch, Iran F Homaei-Shandiz Radiotherapy and Oncology, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Iran SAA Shamsian Iranian Academic Center for Education, Culture & Research (A.C.E.C.R), Mashhad Branch, Iran I Eftekhar-Zadeh Mashhadi Iranian Academic Center for Education, Culture & Research (A.C.E.C.R), Mashhad Branch, Iran MR Hedayati-Moghadam Iranian Academic Center for Education, Culture & Research (A.C.E.C.R), Mashhad Branch, Iran 2015 10 03 Background: Molecular biomarkers are valuable in evaluation the course of malignancies. In this study, the relationship be­tween HER2/neu, p53, steroid receptors and clinicopathological features of patients with breast cancer has been assessed. Methods: Three hundred thirty nine women with a primary diagnosis of breast cancer from 2001 to 2006 were included. They were evaluated for tumor features. The content of the steroid hormone receptors and expression of HER2/neu and p53 was also examined by immunohistochemistry assay. Results: From patients arrived at this study, 52%, 36%, 46.5% and 44% were positive for HER2/neu, p53, ER and PR respec­tively. No association was found between most of pairs. HER2/neu expression significantly related with grade (P= 0.016). P53 had considerable reverse relation with axillary lymph node involvement and primary distant metastasis (P= 0.010 and P= 0.023, respectively). A significant association was found between PR and lymph node involvement (P= 0.038). Conclusion:  This study present the pattern of prognostic biomarkers in breast cancer for the first time in northeast of Iran and suggests to conduct larger studies regarding other effective variables include demographic ones. https://ijph.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijph/article/view/2030 https://ijph.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijph/article/download/2030/2011

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Public Health 2251-6085 37 3 2008 09 15 29 35 R Vazirinejad Dept. of Social Medicine, Medical School, Rafsanjan University, Iran JM Lilley Division of Rehabilitation & Ageing, School of Community Health Sciences, QMC, University of Notting 2015 10 03 Background: To determine the health needs of people with multiple sclerosis living in the Southern Derbyshire region of the UK, using a quality of life postal questionnaire. Methods: This was a population-based survey using a postal questionnaire comprising the 54-item Multiple Sclerosis Qual­ity of life questionnaire (MSQOL-54), Nottingham Extended Activities of Daily Living (ADL), and some additional demo­graphic questions. A postal questionnaire was sent via 40 health practices (50% of general practitioners) in Southern Derby­shire to all patients diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis confirmed by a neurologist. Results: Two hundred and one completed questionnaires (from 223 respondents) were returned using pre-paid postage. Respondents were divided into those with mild (41%), moderate (36%) and severe (23%) disability on the basis of their ADL scores. Seventy seven percent (155) of respondents were women. The POQL mean scores for three groups of mild, moderate and severe disability were 12.0±2.8, 9.5±3.0, and 8.0±3.5 (out of 17), respectively. The regression model showed a relationship between disability scores and POQL scores (Beta=0.58, P= 0.000). Conclusion: For the three groups of disabled people, different priorities emerged in relation to POQL, indicating that ser­vices seeking to improve quality of life in these groups must identify and target the relevant issues appropriately and be sensi­tive to the differing requirements reported by individuals at different levels of disability. Studies of this type are becom­ing increasingly important for determining which outcomes should be measured when evaluating interventions de­signed to maintain well-being and protect the health of patients with MS. https://ijph.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijph/article/view/2031 https://ijph.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijph/article/download/2031/2012

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Public Health 2251-6085 37 3 2008 09 15 36 43 M Habibi Roudkenar Research Center, Iranian Blood Transfusion Organization, Tehran Iran A Oodi Research Center, Iranian Blood Transfusion Organization, Tehran Iran R Halabian Research Center, Iranian Blood Transfusion Organization, Tehran Iran M Mohammadipour Science and Research Center, Department of Biology, Azad University, Tehran, Iran N Amirizadeh Research Center, Iranian Blood Transfusion Organization, Tehran Iran N Massrori Research Center, Iranian Blood Transfusion Organization, Tehran Iran P Mozafari Research Center, Iranian Blood Transfusion Organization, Tehran Iran E Kamali Research Center, Iranian Blood Transfusion Organization, Tehran Iran A Mohammadi Roushandeh Dept. of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Tabriz, Iran H Rezvan Research Center, Iranian Blood Transfusion Organization, Tehran Iran 2015 10 03 Background: Rh (Rhesus) is a highly complex blood group system in man deeply rooted in transfusion medicine. Isolation of RhD from cord blod, cloning and expression of recombinant RhD antigen in bacterial expression system was the aim of this study. Methods: Total RNAs were extracted from cord blood (O+).  The quality of RNA was determined by electrophoresis. In or­der to obtain coding sequence of RhD antigen cDNA was synthesized and Rh D gene was amplified by RT-PCR. The iso­lated RhD gene was   cloned to pUC18 vector and transformed to DH5α. The confirmed construct was sub cloned into expres­sion vector, pBADgIII/A, and expressed in Top10 E.coli. The expressed protein was characterized by SDS-PAGE and western blot analysis. Antigenicity of the expressed protein was assessed by ELISA using commercially available hu­man anti-RhD polyclonal   antibody with   peroxidase conjugated goat anti-human IgG, IgM, IgA as secondary antibody. Re­sults: RhD gene was successfully cloned and expressed. The expected size of recombinant RhD protein was detected in SDS-PAGE, and confirmed by dot and western blot analysis. RhD antibody reacted with recombinant RhD antigen as well as with RhD polypeptide extracted from RBCs membrane. Conclusion: The recombinant RhD may be helpful to further investigate the molecular basis of RhD protein and could be applica­ble for production anti- D antibody in an animal model. https://ijph.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijph/article/view/2032 https://ijph.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijph/article/download/2032/2013

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Public Health 2251-6085 37 3 2008 09 15 44 51 A Fazaeli Zahedan Research Centre for Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, School of Medicine, Zahedan U B Fouladi Zabol University of Medical Sciences, Zabol, Iran SM Hashemi-Shahri Bo-Ali University Hospital, Zahedan, Iran I Sharifi Kerman Research Centre for Leishmaniasis, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran 2015 10 03 Background: To clinically characterize the cutaneous leishmaniasis and identify the causative parasite species in Mirjaveh, an important geographical region across the border of Iran-Pakistan at Southeast of Iran. Methods: A number of 116 patients during a year since March 2005 to April 2006, subjected to the study. Clinical infor­mation collected and scrapings were taken from cutaneous lesions and used for microscopic examination, NNN cultivation and kinetoplast DNA-PCR amplification. Results: The cases comprised of 48 males and 68 females, 84 (72.4%) Iranians and 32 (27.6%) non-Iranians. They aged between 2 months to 68 years with the most affection of children, 0-10 years (55.2%). The patients presented a total of 248 active lesions with an average of 2.14. The ulcers distributed mostly on upper extremity (42.3%) then on face (32.7%), fol­lowed by lower extremity (20.6%) and other parts (4.4%). The majority of ulcers stated to be developed rapidly, <1 month (40.3%) or 1-2 months (45.2%). However, from 248 ulcers, only 19 (7.7%) found to be wet and the remaining were dry or moderately wet, 45 (18.1%) and 184 (74.2%), respectively. kDNA-PCR assay detected 51 out of 73 samples, all of which were identified as L. major, the causative agent of zoonotic cutaneous leishmaniasis. Conclusion:  L. major is the species responsible for cutaneous leishmaniasis in Mirjaveh, however the pattern of clinical findings, does not completely resemble the ZCL characteristics. These indicate that the manifestation of the lesions may not necessarily correspond to the Leishmania species and may be unreliable to conclude the speciation of parasite without labo­ratory identification. https://ijph.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijph/article/view/2033 https://ijph.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijph/article/download/2033/2014

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Public Health 2251-6085 37 3 2008 09 15 52 59 K Diba Dept. of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health and Institute of Public Health Research SH Mirhendi Dept. of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health and Institute of Public Health Research P Kordbacheh Dept. of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health and Institute of Public Health Research N Jalalizand Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Esfehan Research Center of Public Health, Iran 2015 10 03 Background: Aspergillus species are associated with allergic bronchopulmonary disease, mycotic keratitis, otomycosis, na­sal sinusitis and invasive infection. In this study, we developed a PCR-Single Strand Confomational Polymorphism method to identify the most common Aspergillus species and we showed some advantages of this method comparing a PCR-Restric­tion Fragment Length Polymorphism with our designed restriction enzyme. Methods: We selected ITS2, as a short fragment within the rDNA region (length size: 330 bp) to be amplified as small size PCR product. We mixed 5 ml of the PCR product with an equal volume of loading buffer and followed by incubation for 5 min at 95º C and quenching in an ice bath. The mixture was applied to a 6%-12% Gradient Poly acryl amide gel to run in a verti­cal electrophoresis, then gel was stained with ethidium bromide and silver nitrate which followed by an ethidium bro­mide staining. Results: Our results of restriction digestion showed a fine identification of 7 tested Aspergillus species dur­ing 5-6 hours af­ter an overnight mycelial growth. As our results some of tested Aspergillus species: A. nidulans, A. fisheri, A. quad­ricincta, (A. fumigatus and A. niger) as a group and (A. flavus, A. tereus and A. ochraceus) as another group, can be dis­criminated. More­over SSCP analysis enabled us to identify above Aspergillus species within 8-12 h after an over night growth without us­ing an expensive restriction enzyme. Conclusion: It is concluded that Single Strand Conformational Polymorphism is a simple and rapid method for identifica­tion of some medically important Aspergillus. https://ijph.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijph/article/view/2034 https://ijph.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijph/article/download/2034/2015

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Public Health 2251-6085 37 3 2008 09 15 60 69 KP Prakash Health Services, Dhahira region, Ministry of Health, Oman 2015 10 03 Background: We reviewed the monthly laboratory surveillance reports and hospital laboratory database in Dhahira region, Oman. Methods: All patients for whom a stool sample examination request was made from 1st January 2002 to 31st December 2006 (5 years) were included in the study. Antimicrobial resistance pattern was studied for 2 years period. The cultures were done using standard laboratory procedures and antibiotic sensitivity by Kirby Bauer disc diffusion method. Results: Of the 85,210 stool samples examined, 18% showed positive result for one or more parasitic infection. The most common were E. hystolytica (7.1%), Giardia (7.9%) and E. coli (1.9%). A total of 7,830 cultures were done, among them 11.4% showed positive result for bacterial pathogen. The most common were Salmonella (5.8%) and Shigella species (4.4%). The antimicrobial susceptibility patterns of 265 bacterial pathogens were analyzed. Of the Shigella strains, 71.8% were resistant to trimethoprim/sulphamethoxazole (SXT) and 39.4% to ampicillin and 32.4% to tetracycline. Salmonella and E. coli strains were frequently resistant to ampicillin (12.5% and 47.7%, respectively) Conclusion: This study provides important information on the prevalence and antimicrobial resistance pattern of enteric pathogens in Dhahira region population. SXT, ampicillin, and tetracycline are the drugs commonly associated with resistance. https://ijph.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijph/article/view/2035 https://ijph.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijph/article/download/2035/2016

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Public Health 2251-6085 37 3 2008 09 15 70 76 K Ashraf Ganjouei Social Security Organization of Iran, Kerman Neuroscience Research Center, Afzal Research Institute, L Ekhlaspour Kerman Physiology Research Center, Afzal Research Institute, Iran E Iranmanesh Education Development Center, Deputy of Education, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Iran P Poorian Researcher of Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran N Ashraf Ganjooei Kerman Neuroscience Research Center, Iran F Rashid-Farokhi Dept.of Nephrology, Shaheed Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran S Karamuzian Dept. of Neurosurgery, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran 2015 10 03 Background: On December 26, 2003 an earthquake measuring 6.8 on the Richter scale, shook the city of Bam in the south east of Iran and killed more than 40000 people and nearly 30000 were injured. This is an epidemiological study performed on the victims of Bam earthquake to analyze different types of injuries of patients admitted in Kerman hospitals. Methods:  In a retrospective cross-sectional study the medical records of 1250 victims of Bam earthquake admitted in Kerman hospitals from December 26, 2003 till 21 March, 2004 were reviewed and general demographic data such as age, sex, date of admission, type and anatomical site of injuries, diagnoses and complications were recorded. Results: More than half of the patients were male. The mean age was 29.28±11.89 years. Lower limb injuries (40.8%) and pelvic injuries (26.2%) were the most common. The least common injury was chest injury (10.9%). More than 50% of pa­tients had fractures. There were associations between chest injuries, vertebral column injuries and abdominal injuries and between vertebral column, chest and skull fractures. The numbers of injury and fracture locations for each patient were 0.186±0.11 and 0.0886±0.098, respectively. Conclusions: The study of individual factors and associations between different locations of injuries indicates a careful physical examinations and attention to special groups. It is important to use findings of epidemiologic studies on disasters to establish well-organized crisis registration system for the next disasters. https://ijph.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijph/article/view/2036 https://ijph.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijph/article/download/2036/2017

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Public Health 2251-6085 37 3 2008 09 15 77 84 A Ameri School of Public Health, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran M Gholami School of Public Health, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran F Vaezi Dept. of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Medical Sciences/University of Tehran, Iran M Rahimi School of Public Health, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran M Mahmodi School of Public Health, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran B Moosavi School of Public Health, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran 2015 10 03 Background: Chromium (Cr) is the most important element used to plate other metals and electroplating factories are still consid­ered to be the most important industries which pollute the environment to this metal. This paper describes a study con­ducted to determine the efficiency of reverse-osmosis (RO) as a membrane technique for removal of Cr from wastewater sam­ples synthetically prepared to be similar to electroplating effluents. Methods: The RO unit used in this study was a spiral wound module of 2521 TE made by a Korean CSM company. Syn­thetic wastewater samples containing Cr ions at various concentrations of 1 to 20 mg/L were prepared and subjected to treat­ment by RO, and quantitative analysis had been accomplished by a colorimetric method. Evaluation of optimized condi­tions of treatment had also been carried out by determining the effects of changing operating pressure, temperature and pHS of samples. Results: Optimum conditions of Cr-treatment by RO in 10 g/L initial Cr concentration were determined to be in the pH range of 6 to 7 and in temperature of about 25ºC at an applied pressure of 200 psi. Conclusion: Considering the efficiency of Cr removal which was as high as 99% at the optimized conditions it could be con­cluded that RO membrane process may be selected and developed as an effective alternative for treatment of metal-contami­nated effluents of electroplating and similar industries. https://ijph.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijph/article/view/2037 https://ijph.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijph/article/download/2037/2018

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Public Health 2251-6085 37 3 2008 09 15 85 90 MH Somi Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases Research Center, Imam Hospital, Tabriz University of Medical Sci S Farhang Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases Research Center, Imam Hospital, Tabriz University of Medical Sci S Nasseri-Moghaddam Digestive Disease Research Center, Shariati Hospital, Medical Sciences/University of Tehran, Iran ES Jazayeri Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases Research Center, Imam Hospital, Tabriz University of Medical Sci SK Mirinezhad Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases Research Center, Imam Hospital, Tabriz University of Medical Sci SM Godrati Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases Research Center, Imam Hospital, Tabriz University of Medical Sci M Golchin Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases Research Center, Imam Hospital, Tabriz University of Medical Sci 2015 10 03 Background: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is one of the most common gastrointestinal problems in the west while different reports indicate an increase in the prevalence in Iran. The aim of this study was to estimate the preva­lence and clinical spectrum of GERD in staff of a referral hospital and evaluate the risk factors. Methods: This cross-sectional study using a modified Mayo clinic questionnaire was performed on staff of Imam Hospi­tal, Tabriz, Iran on a pilot of 50 subjects, and a randomly selected group consisted of 522 subjects in the year 2005. GERD symptoms were defined as at least weekly heartburn and/or acid regurgitation during the past year. Results: Response rate was 95%. Mean age of responders was 40.02±10.72 yr. The prevalence of recurrent heart­burn and/or acid regurgitation experienced at least weekly and monthly was 26.8% and 34.1%, respectively. They were not related to age and gender. The severity of symptoms was mainly reported of a mild to moderate degree. 45% of the cases reported at least one of the atypical symptoms. There was no relation between marriage status and preva­lence of GERD. On the other hand, GERD was less common among cases with no family history of upper gas­trointestinal disease. The prevalence of frequent GERD was more common among medical staff. Increased BMI (but no recent weight gain or lose) was associated with higher prevalence of GERD symptoms only in women. In­terestingly 33% of our population had a history of using antacid or PPIs which was more among cases with frequent GERD symptoms. Conclusion: This study revealed a high prevalence of frequent GERD symptoms in a selected population of Tabriz. Atypi­cal symptoms should be considered in this area.   https://ijph.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijph/article/view/2038 https://ijph.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijph/article/download/2038/2019

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Public Health 2251-6085 37 3 2008 09 15 91 97 F Nili Dept. of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, Vali-E-Asr Hospital, Tehran- Iran SM Saleh Tabib Dept. of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, Vali-E-Asr Hospital, Tehran- Iran E Amini Dept. of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, Vali-E-Asr Hospital, Tehran- Iran F Nayeri Dept. of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, Vali-E-Asr Hospital, Tehran- Iran M Aligholi Dept. of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, Vali-E-Asr Hospital, Tehran- Iran 2015 10 03 Background: To determine prospectively the prevalence of anaerobic and aerobic infection in early onset (during 72 hours of age) neonatal sepsis, in Tehran Vali-e-Asr Hospital. Methods: Among all the live birth, neonates suspecting of having septicemia were investigated for isolation of micro­organisms. Culture bottle containing enriched tryptic soy broth was used for standard blood culture system to detect aerobes and an ANAEROBIC/F bottle was inoculated using BACTEC 9120 continuous monitoring blood culture system to deter­mine the growth of anaerobic bacteria. Among 1724 live births, 402 consecutive neonates suspecting of having septicemia were investigated for isolation of micro organism. Results: A total of 27 episodes of early onset neonatal sepsis occurred with an incidence of 15.66 (11.6 aerobe + 4.0 anaer­obe) per 1000 live births. Aerobic bacteria were the major etiological agents, accounting for 20 cases. 7 (26%) cases had posi­tive blood cultures with anaerobic bacteria. Propionibacterium and Peptostreptococccus (amongst anaerobic) and coagu­lase-negative staphylococci and staphylococcus aureus (amongst aerobic) were the most commonly isolated organisms. Compari­son of clinical findings and demographic characteristics between aerobic and anaerobic infection did not have a signifi­cant statistical difference. Conclusion: Our impression is that while anaerobic bacteremia in the newborn infants can occasionally cause severe morbid­ity and mortality, majority of cases experience a self limited illness with transient bacteremia. https://ijph.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijph/article/view/2039 https://ijph.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijph/article/download/2039/2020

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Public Health 2251-6085 37 3 2008 09 15 98 100 AJ Abedi Dept. of Community Medicine, JN Medical College, Aligarh Muslim University, India Z Khan Dept. of Community Medicine, JN Medical College, Aligarh Muslim University, India N Khalique Dept. of Community Medicine, JN Medical College, Aligarh Muslim University, India U Fatima Dept. of Pathology, JN Medical College, Aligarh Muslim University, India N Afroz Dept. of Pathology, JN Medical College, Aligarh Muslim University, India 2015 10 03 Background: Lymphadenitis is a common form of extra-pulmonary tuberculosis. As in peripheral health centers, the facili­ties for histopathology and culture are lacking, material obtained by fine needle aspiration (FNA) in suspected cases of tubercu­lar lymphadenitis (TBL) cid Fast Bacilli (AFB) by Ziehl Neelson method as every Designated Micros­copy centre under Revised National Tuberculosis Control Programme has facility to perform it. This study was con­ducted with the aim of establishing the utility of performing AFB on aspirated material at a DMC over performing cytology at a higher centre. Methods: Fifty eight suspected cases of TBL attending urban health training centre, Dept. of Community Medicine were in­cluded in the study. FNA was performed and at least two slides were prepared, one for acid fast staining at centre itself and the other was sent for cytology, in the Dept. of Pathology. SPSS 11.0 was used to data analysis. Results: 75.9% slides were AFB Positive; there was significant correlation of duration of disease and cytomorphology with AFB positivity. Conclusion: It was concluded that performing AFB staining at a peripheral centre on material aspirated from lymph nodes could alone be sufficient for diagnosis of tuberculosis in majority of cases. https://ijph.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijph/article/view/2040 https://ijph.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijph/article/download/2040/2021

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Public Health 2251-6085 37 3 2008 09 15 101 106 M Jamali Zavarei Jamali Zavarei Imam Khomeini Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Iran R Hamkar School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Iran V Ghobadi Dana Children's Medical Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Iran M Delforoosh School of Science, Islamic Azad University/ Qom branch, Iran MH Shojamoradi Legal Medicine Organization of Iran M Modarresi Gilani Imam Khomeini Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Iran 2015 10 03 Background: Human papillomavirus infection is one of the most common genital infections. More than 100 types of this virus have been identified, and most of them are capable of infecting the genital mucosa. Human papillomavirus is in association with cancerous and precancerous lesions of the cervix; some types like HPV 16 and 18 are highly carcinogenic, some types like HPV 31 and 33 are moderately and some types like HPV 6 and 11 are mildly carcinogenic. In this research, the relationship between cytological changes of the squamous epithelial cells and the presence of HPV infections in our cases has been assessed. Methods: In this prospective study, we collected 681 samples from women admitted to different hospitals and private gynecological clinics in Tehran, during the years 2003-2005. Two specimens were collected from each patient; one for a Pap smear study and the other for PCR assay in order to detect HPV. Results: Out of our 681 samples, 600 specimens were suitable for PCR assay, and 34 cases were HPV positive in PCR assay. This means that 5.7 percent of our patients were infected with HPV. Conclusion: HPV infection is common in Iran and is nearly identical to European countries such as Germany, and Spain. Also, we found that using PCR assay in order to detect the presence of HPV viruses in vaginal discharges can be very helpful. https://ijph.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijph/article/view/2041 https://ijph.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijph/article/download/2041/2022

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Public Health 2251-6085 37 3 2008 09 15 107 112 AMK Jarousha Dept. of Laboratory Medicine, Al Azhar University, Gaza, Palestine IA Qouqa Dept. of Medical Technology, Military Medical Services, Gaza, Palestine AHN Jadba Dept. of Medical Microbiology, Al Dorra Pediatric Hospital, Gaza, Palestine AS Afifi Dept. of Medical Technology, Al Nasser Pediatric Hospital, Gaza, Palestine 2015 10 03 Background: To perform a prospective case control study of blood stream infection to determine the infection rate of Acine­tobac­ter baumannii and the risk factors associated with mortality. Methods:   From February 2004 to January 2005, 579 consecutive episodes of blood stream infection were obtained at two neo­na­tal intensive care units Al Nasser and Al Shifa hospitals in Gaza City. Forty (6.9%) isolates of A. baumannii were ob­tained from the neonates under 28 d. Most of the isolates (92%) were from hospitalized patients in the intensive care units. Results: Community acquired infection was 8%.  Sixty three percent of the patients were males. The isolates of A. bauman­nii were resistant to commonly used antibiotics while being sensitive to meropenem (92.5%), imipenem (90%), chloram­pheni­col (80%), ciprofloxacin (75%), gentamicin (57.5%), ceftriaxone (50%), amikacin (37.5%), cefuroxime and ce­fo­taxime (35%). Over all crude mortality rate was 20% with much higher crude mortality among patients with noso­co­mial infec­tion.  Based on logistic regression, the following factors were statistically significant: weight < 1500g, age < 7 d, mean of hospitalization equal 20 days, antibiotic use, and mechanical ventilation, when compared to the control group (P< 0.05). Conclusion:  Infection rate of nosocomial blood stream infection was considerable and alarming in neonatal intensive care unit infants and associated with a significant excess length of NICU stay and a significant economic burden.   https://ijph.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijph/article/view/2042 https://ijph.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijph/article/download/2042/2023

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Public Health 2251-6085 37 3 2008 09 15 113 117 Z Valadkhani Dept. of Parasitology, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran https://ijph.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijph/article/download/36487/8548

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Public Health 2251-6085 54 5 2025 05 01 1034 1043 On Yoo Shin Department of Nursing, Cheongam College, Jeollanam-do, Republic of Korea Yeon-Ran Hong Department of Nursing, Sunchon National University, Jeollanam-do, Republic of Korea Ho-Jin Lee Department of Nursing, Yeungnam University College, Daegu, Republic of Korea 2025 02 08 2025 05 01 Background: We explored practical strategies to improve nursing staff retention in Korea, addressing the challenges posed by nursing shortages. Methods: We examined the influence of parental stress, the nursing work environment, and job engagement (a sense of connection and commitment to work) on job embeddedness. Data were collected from 216 female nurses with children aged 1–12 years working at hospitals in Korea from August 23 to October 13, 2024. Statistical analyses included independent t-tests, one-way analysis of variance, Pearson’s correlation coefficients, multiple regression analysis, and mediating effect. Results: Job embeddedness showed a negative correlation with parenting stress (r=-0.360, P<0.001) and positive correlation with nursing work environment (r=0.653, P<0.001) and job engagement (r=0.540, P<0.001). Job engagement was also negatively correlated with parenting stress (r=-0.265, P<0.001) and positively correlated with the nursing work environment (r=0.472, P<0.001). Nurses with higher job satisfaction also reported higher job embeddedness (β=0.36, P<0.001). Improvements in the nursing work environment were associated with increase in both job embeddedness (β=0.36, P<0.001) and job engagement (β=0.18, P=0.002). Mediation analysis confirmed that job engagement partially mediated the relationships between parenting stress, the nursing work environment, and job embeddedness (F=75.76, P<0.001). Conclusion: Parenting stress and the nursing work environment significantly influence job engagement, which, in turn, contributes to higher job embeddedness among nurses. To improve job embeddedness for female nurses, organizations should implement support programs to reduce parenting stress, foster family-friendly work environments, and establish institutional measures to promote job engagement. https://ijph.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijph/article/view/38089 https://ijph.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijph/article/download/38089/8550

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Public Health 2251-6085 54 5 2025 05 01 1044 1053 Gülay Ekinci Department of Health Management, Faculty of Health Sciences, Istanbul Sabahattin Zaim University, Istanbul, Türkiye Mustafa Yılmaztürk Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality, Director of Health and Hygiene at Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality Company, Istanbul, Türkiye 2024 05 31 2024 10 06 Background: We aimed to reveal the relationship between the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and health indicators in Organization Islamic Countries (OIC). Methods: The panel data method was used in the analyses, health indicators as independent variables belonging to 16 Islamic countries with regular data from 2008-2021, and the SDG score as the dependent variable was considered. Results: A one-unit increase in maternal mortality reduced the SDG score by 0.0047 units, a one-unit increase in neonatal mortality reduced the SDG score by 0.27 units, besides these results no significant relationships were found between U5mort, NCD mort, TB, VAC variables, and SDG score (P>0.05). Granger causality analysis results showed different causal relationships and variance decomposition results show that the long-term explanatory effect of health indicators on the SDG score by approximately 23%. Conclusion: According to the empirical evidence obtained from the research, improvements in health indicators especially focused on mother and child health positively affect the SDG score in the countries examined. https://ijph.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijph/article/view/35676 https://ijph.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijph/article/download/35676/8551

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Public Health 2251-6085 54 5 2025 05 01 1054 1063 Kumayl Abbas Meghji Department of Physiology, Isra University, Hyderabad, Pakistan Tariq Feroz Memon Department of Community Medicine and Public Health Sciences, Liaquat University of Medical and Health Sciences, Jamshoro, Pakistan Abdul Raqeeb Department of Internal Medicine, Hafar Al-Batin Central Hospital, Ministry of Health, Hafar Al Batin, Saudi Arabia Muhammad Fahad Pathan Department of Family Medicine, Islington House Medical Centre, Liverpool, United Kingdom Usaid Raqeeb Department of Emergency, Ascension Bay Medical Care Hospital, Panama City, Florida, United States Tariq Zafar Shaikh Department of Internal Medicine, Liaquat University of Medical and Health Sciences, Jamshoro, Pakistan 2024 07 07 2024 11 25 Background: Chronic liver disease (CLD) and its end-stage manifestation, cirrhosis, present significant global health challenges, contributing to substantial morbidity and mortality. Despite its impact on various organ systems, the musculoskeletal effects of CLD, particularly vitamin D deficiency remain underexplored. This study aimed to identify significant predictors of vitamin D deficiency among CLD patients. Methods: Overall, 177 CLD patients of either gender, aged 18 yr and above were included using the non-probability consecutive sampling technique. This cross-sectional study was conducted at the medical units of Isra University Hospital, Hyderabad, from Jan to Jun 2023. Various markers of hepatic function including bilirubin, albumin, and International normalised ratio (INR), were analyzed, along with a complete blood count and each patient was assigned a Child-Turcotte-Pugh (CTP) score. The relationship of vitamin D with different variables was assessed through Chi-Square tests. Pearson correlation and regression analyses were carried out to identify predictors of vitamin D deficiency. Results: Mean age of patients was 51.76±5.77 yr and the majority were male (68.4%). Vitamin D deficiency was present in 28.24%, particularly among those with cirrhosis. Vitamin D levels correlated negatively with disease severity, as indicated by CTP (P<0.05) and Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) (P<0.05) scores, and positively with albumin levels (P<0.05). Increasing age, male gender, and higher CTP and MELD scores were significant predictors (P<0.05) of vitamin D deficiency. Conclusion: Vitamin D levels correlate with hepatic dysfunction and are negatively associated with disease progression. Significant predictors of vitamin D deficiency identified include increasing age, male gender, and higher MELD and CTP Score. https://ijph.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijph/article/view/36003 https://ijph.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijph/article/download/36003/8552

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Public Health 2251-6085 54 5 2025 05 01 1064 1073 Vahidreza Borhaninejad Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran Milad Ahmadi Gohari Modeling in Health Research Center, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran Yones Jahani Modeling in Health Research Center, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran Saber Amirzadeh Googhari School of Public Health, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada Nazanin Jannati Department of Community Health & Epidemiology, College of Medicine, University Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Cana-da Moghaddameh Mirzaee Modeling in Health Research Center, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran 2024 02 26 2024 10 21 Background: The prevalence of Alzheimer's disease in Iran, attributed to the demographic shift towards an aging population, holds considerable importance. We aimed to estimate the prevalence and number of Alzheimer's disease in Iran by 2029. Methods: Dynamic modeling techniques were employed to project the number of Alzheimer's disease (AD) among the elderly population in Iran by the year 2029. Two interconnected models were developed to facilitate this estimation. The initial model is a demographic model that captures the aging population's growth dynamics. The subsequent model, an AD evaluation model, that assess potential impacts on disease. This approach enables a comprehensive analysis of the factors influencing AD trends within the context of Iran's aging demographic. Results: The results show the number of individuals aged over 60 is expected to rise from approximately 9.1 million in 2020 to around 13.7 million in 2029. As the older adult population grows, the number of AD is also anticipated to increase. The number of Alzheimer's patients is predicted to grow from about 464,400 in 2020 to roughly 729,900 by 2029. Conclusion: Forecasting future trends in AD, especially in developing countries, is crucial for policymakers because of its growing impact on healthcare systems and economies globally. The findings of this study can aid in assessing the economic burdens associated with treating Alzheimer's patients, providing valuable insights for planning and resource allocation. https://ijph.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijph/article/view/34725 https://ijph.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijph/article/download/34725/8553

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Public Health 2251-6085 54 5 2025 05 01 1074 1086 Ensieh Sagheb Sadeghi 1. Department of Biology, Neyshabur Branch, Islamic Azad University, Neyshabur, Iran 2. Gene Raz Bu Ali, Genetic and Biotechnology Academy, Isfahan, Iran Zahra Amrollahy Bioky 1. Gene Raz Bu Ali, Genetic and Biotechnology Academy, Isfahan, Iran 2. Department of Animal Biology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran Mahsa Hokmabadi 1. Gene Raz Bu Ali, Genetic and Biotechnology Academy, Isfahan, Iran 2. Department of Genetic, Tehran Medical Sciences Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran Samira Asadollahi 1. Gene Raz Bu Ali, Genetic and Biotechnology Academy, Isfahan, Iran 2. Research Center for Food Hygiene and Safety, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran Fatemeh Sarhadi 1. Gene Raz Bu Ali, Genetic and Biotechnology Academy, Isfahan, Iran 2. Department of Biology, Medical Biotechnology Research Center, Ashkezar Branch, Islamic Azad University, Ashkezar, Yazd, Iran Nasrin Fattahi Dolatabadi Gene Raz Bu Ali, Genetic and Biotechnology Academy, Isfahan, Iran Atefeh Zamani Gene Raz Bu Ali, Genetic and Biotechnology Academy, Isfahan, Iran Mohammad Mahdevar Department of Genetics and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran Maryam Peymani Department of Biology, Faculty of Basic Sciences, Shahrekord Branch, Islamic Azad University, Shahrekord, Iran 2023 07 02 2024 04 02 Background: This study aimed to find pseudogenes with significant expression alterations in gastric cancer (GC) that could be implicated in the disease's development via the competing endogenous RNAs (ceRNAs) network. Methods: Pseudogenes, mRNAs, and microRNAs, whose expression changes considerably in GC specimens, were identified using the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) data from 2006 to 2017 (USA). The ceRNAs network was constructed using the miRWalk, miRTarBase, and DIANA-LncBase. The cox regression test was performed to assess the correlation between candidate genes and patient prognosis. Finally, using the RT-qPCR method, the in-silico results were evaluated using GC samples and adjacent normal. Samples were collected from Imam Khomeini Hospital in Tehran (Iran) between 2020 and 2021. Results: In the cancer samples compared to the normal ones, there were 86 miRNAs, 1985 mRNAs, and 33 pseudogenes showing expression alterations, either more than or less than a twofold difference. Constructed ceRNA network demonstrated that pseudogenes such as RCN1P2, TPM3P9, and HSP90AB3P were most connected to changed mRNAs and microRNAs in GC. The analysis of the ceRNA network for each of the mentioned pseudogenes indicated that the associated mRNAs play roles in cell proliferation, inflammation, and metastatic pathways. Furthermore, elevated expression of several mRNAs linked to potential pseudogenes was linked to a poor prognosis. RT-qPCR revealed a significant increase in the expression levels of RCN1P2, TPM3P9, and HSP90AB3P in GC samples. Conclusion: The expression of RCN1P2, TPM3P9, and HSP90AB3P is dramatically enhanced in GC. They can also influence the survival rate of GC patients by regulating pathways involved in cell proliferation, inflammation, and metastasis via the ceRNAs network.   https://ijph.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijph/article/view/32520 https://ijph.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijph/article/download/32520/8554

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Public Health 2251-6085 54 5 2025 05 01