Showing papers in "Zahedan Journal of Research in Medical Sciences in 2018"
TL;DR: In this paper, an endophytic fungus, Nemania sp., was found to be a good producer of AgNPs and was used for mycosynthesis of silver nanoparticles.
Abstract: Objectives: In this study, the mycosynthesis of silver nanoparticles was investigated using the endophytic fungi isolated from Taxus baccata L. (Iranian Yew). Methods: Endophytic fungi were isolated from Taxus baccata L. (Iranian Yew) and were subjected to mycosynthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), extracellularly. The characterization of produced AgNPs was done using UV-V spectroscopy, TEM, and FTIR. Further antimicrobial activity of synthesized AgNPs was tested against Bacillus subtillis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus sp., and Salmonella typhi, using the agar well diffusion assay method. To identify the fungal isolate, the ITS region was amplified by polymerase chain reaction (PCR), using universal primers ITS1 and ITS4. For obtaining closely related phylogenetic sequences, sequence analysis of ITS- rDNA was run using the BLAST algorithm of the NCBI database. Results: The endophytic fungus, Nemania sp., was found to be a good producer of AgNPs. The surface plasmon resonance band in UV-Vis spectroscopy was at 460 nm, which confirmed the formation of AgNPs. The size range of the synthesized AgNPs was 5 to 70 nm, according to the TEM analysis. The FTIR study of AgNPs showed major peaks around 1035, 1392, 1514, 1644, 2922, and 3443 cm-1, which were responsible for different functional groups possibly involved in the synthesis and stabilization of AgNPs. Antibacterial activity showed maximum zone of inhibition of 17 mm against B. subtilis. Conclusions: Nemania sp. can be a fungal system for extracellular mycosynthesis of AgNPs, which is a simple and ecofriendly method for nanoparticle synthesis.
30 citations
TL;DR: The most common causes of admission were pneumonia (22.9%), bronchiolitis (8.6%), and septicemia (7.9%) and the mean duration of hospitalization was 3.3 days and the mortality rate was 16.5% as discussed by the authors.
Abstract: Background: The decreasing of mortality rate is one of the most important goals in every intensive care unit (ICU). This study was performed to determine the main causes of admission and mortality rate in our referral pediatric ICU (PICU). Methods: In this retrospective study, all patients (age-group, 1 month - 16 years) admitted to the PICU in one year were included and patients with less than a 3h duration of admission, multiple traumas, and post-surgery patients were excluded. Results: Among the 688 patients enrolled in the study, 55.6% were male and the mean patient age was 2.7 years. The most common causes of admission were pneumonia (22.9%), bronchiolitis (8.6%), and septicemia (7.9%). The mean duration of hospitalization was 3.3 days and the mortality rate was 16.5%, with a mean age of 2.2 years and 51.8% male. The most common causes of overall mortality were pneumonia (21.6%) and septicemia (16.2%), however, mortality was more common in patients admitted with septicemia (36.6%), liver failure (31.6%), chronic renal failure (28.6%), and meningitis (27.3%). Patients who had undergone intubation before admission, decreased level of consciousness, and prolonged duration of hospitalization were significantly correlated with the mortality (P < 0.05). Conclusions: Our results indicate that the respiratory failure and severe infections are the most common causes of admission and mortality in the PICU and very young children are at risk of high incidence of mortality.
11 citations
TL;DR: Considering the effects of Internet addiction on the health dimensions of students, it seems necessary to implement periodic educational courses, refer them to counseling centers, and perform interventional studies to assess the effectiveness of such programs.
Abstract: Background: Internet abuse has had a growing trend among medical students. This practice incurs negative consequences on many aspects of an individual’s life, including academic, professional, and communicative status as well as loneliness and sleep quality. These consequences have adverse effects on the quality of patient care and safety, as well as physical and mental health of students.
Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between Internet addiction and loneliness, and sleep quality among students of the Nursing and Midwifery Faculty.
Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 216 students of Zahedan Nursing and Midwifery Faculty during year 2016. The study population was selected through the stratified random sampling technique. The data were collected using the demographic form, Young’s Internet Addiction Test, University of California Los Angeles Loneliness Scale, and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index. Data analysis was performed using independent t-test, analysis of variance (ANOVA), multivariate regression, and Pearson correlation coefficient in SPSS-20 software.
Results: According to the results, 62.1%, 10.3%, and 1% of the students had mild, moderate, and severe Internet addiction, respectively. The mean scores of Internet addiction, loneliness, and sleep quality were 37.92 ± 13.32, 44.11 ± 9.63, and 10.7 ± 5.29, respectively. Furthermore, there was a significant difference between males and females in terms of the mean Internet addiction and sleep quality (P < 0.001 and P = 0.02, respectively). Additionally, sleep quality showed a significant correlation with Internet addiction (r = 0.16, P = 0.01) and loneliness (r = 0.22, P = 0.001). Nevertheless, no significant relationship was observed between Internet addiction and loneliness. Moreover, 8% of the total variation of Internet addiction among students was dependent on sleep quality and gender.
Conclusions: Considering the effects of Internet addiction on the health dimensions of students, it seems necessary to implement periodic educational courses, refer them to counseling centers, and perform interventional studies to assess the effectiveness of such programs.
10 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, a survey was designed to evaluate the potential effects of Hypiran, a hydro-alcoholic extract of St John's Wort, for the treatment and controlling inflammation in animal models of ulcerative colitis.
Abstract: Background: Different studies have been done on Hypericum anti-depressant effects, but only a few ones have documented in vivo anti-inflammatory properties of Hypericum following systemic administration. Objectives: This survey was designed to evaluate the potential effects of Hypiran, a hydro-alcoholic extract of St. John’s Wort, for the treatment and controlling inflammation in animal models of ulcerative colitis. Methods: In this experimental study, ulcerative colitis was induced in the male Wistar rats by luminal instillation of acetic acid. Animals in the treatment groups received Hypiran (150 mg/kg PO) or Prednisolone (4 mg/kg PO) daily for 10 consecutive days. At the end, the rats were sacrificed and the disease activity index, the levels of malondialdehyde, myeloperoxidase, nitric oxide, total protein and the concentration of TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6 were assessed in the colonic homogenized tissue specimens. Results: The results showed that both therapies with Hypiran and Prednisolone could regress the clinical scores and the mortality rate of ulcerative colitis in a comparable manner. The levels of TNF-α, IL-1β and myeloperoxidase activity were down-regulated in the guts of Prednisolone treated rats more than Hypiran groups. Nevertheless, Hypiran decreased the levels of IL-6, nitric oxide and malondialdehyde more significantly than Prednisolone. Conclusions: Collectively, these data suggest that the Hypiran may be used as a natural source to alleviate the signs of rat model of ulcerative colitis.
10 citations
TL;DR: In this article, the antiprotozoal activity of Marrubium vulgare essential oil and extracts against Trichomonas vaginalis was evaluated using susceptibility testing after 24 and 48 hours of incubation at 35.5°C under aerobic conditions.
Abstract: Background: Trichomoniasis is one of the most common nonviral sexually transmitted infections worldwide that its drug-resistant cases are on the rise. Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the antiprotozoal activity of Marrubium vulgare essential oil and extracts against Trichomonas vaginalis. Methods: After preparation of essential oil and extracts of M. vulgare, five T. vaginalis isolates were subjected to susceptibility testing after 24 and 48 hours of incubation at 35.5°C under aerobic conditions. Results: The examined essential oil and extracts had potent antitrichomonal activities against T. vaginalis. After 48-hour exposure, the most antitrichomonal activity of M. vulgare preparations was related to the essential oil, with a mean minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) value of 291 ± 136 µg/mL, followed by ethyl acetate (541 ± 197 µg/mL), methanol (1000 ± 0 µg/mL), and n-hexane (1500 ± 490 µg/mL) extracts, in comparison with metronidazole (with MICs ranging from 3.1 to 12.5 µg/mL). Conclusions: The findings of this study showed that the compounds of M. vulgare have significant activities against T. vaginalis parasite. Therefore, future studies are needed to clear more details about antitrichomonal properties of M. vulgare compounds
7 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the relationship between body composition and cardiorespiratory fitness in students at postgraduate level was examined using Pearson correlation coefficient, and a significant difference was observed between men and women in BMI, WHR, VO2max, body mass and body fat percent (P ≤ 0.05).
Abstract: Background: Physical activity and cardiovascular fitness are important indicators of cardiovascular risk and health status. Objectives: This study aimed to examine the relationship between body composition and cardiorespiratory fitness in students at postgraduate level. Methods: This cross-sectional study. In the 2014 - 2015 academic year, all first-year university students from a postgraduate Tarbiat Modares level university were invited to take part in the present study. Three hundred volunteer students aged 22 to 36 years were selected. Body mass, body fat percent, body mass index (BMI), waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) and maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) of subjects were measured at a specified time. T-independent test was used to examine the difference between groups. Also, the correlation between variables was examined using Pearson correlation coefficient. All data were analyzed by the SPSS software (Version-19). Results: The results showed the obtained data in male and female students at postgraduate level including VO2max (37.4 and 25.3 ml/kg/min), body mass (74 and 58.4 kg), body fat percent (18.9 and 21.7 %), BMI (23.7 and 22.4 kg/m2) and WHR (0.83 and 0.73). An inverse relationship was observed between VO2max with BMI, WHR and body fat percent (P ≤ 0.05). Also, a significant difference was observed between men and women in BMI, WHR, VO2max, body mass and body fat percent (P ≤ 0.05). Conclusions: According to the results of this study, it can be concluded that postgraduate students are in relatively ideal conditions of body composition, but they are in relatively weak cardiorespiratory fitness. These conditions are more in women who require notification and afterthought.
7 citations
TL;DR: According to findings, anger - management training should be applied in psychiatric hospitals as stressful occupational environments to reduce aggression and improve job satisfaction of nurses.
Abstract: Objectives: Nursing is one of the most stressful jobs. High aggression levels, low job satisfaction and early desertion are counted its problems. Present study investigated the effectiveness of cognitive - behavioral anger - management training on psychiatric hospital nurses. Methods: It was a semi - experimental study, with pretest - posttest and control group design. The population of study included nurses working in a psychiatric hospital in Tehran and sample group was 44 nurses selected by convenience sampling method. Data collected by Ahvaz aggression inventory (AAI) and job satisfaction questionnaire (JSQ). After pretest the experimental group participated in 4 weekly sessions during a month. Then posttests were accomplished. Obtained data were analyzed by covariance analysis method and SPSS - 20 software. Results: The present study showed significant effectiveness of anger - management training on aggression (F = 26.750, P ≤ 0.001) and job satisfaction (F = 6.071, P < 0.05). Conclusions: According to findings, anger - management training should be applied in psychiatric hospitals as stressful occupational environments to reduce aggression and improve job satisfaction of nurses.
6 citations
TL;DR: The smoking prevalence and its related factors among dormitory students of Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences in Tehran, Iran was relatively high and the necessity of proper education about the harms and health effects of smoking are felt more than ever.
Abstract: Background: Smoking causes premature and preventable death of millions of educated people. Objectives: Given the role model for medical students in the future of the country, the current study aimed at determining the smoking prevalence and its related factors among dormitory students of Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences in Tehran, Iran. Methods: The current cross sectional study was conducted with descriptive-analytical approach on 355 dormitory students selected by single-stage random cluster sampling method. Data were collected using a researcher-made questionnaire including demographic and background information and smoking features. Then, data were analyzed with SPSS version. 21, using descriptive statistics and Chi-square test. Results: The current study findings indicated that 23.8% (n = 81) of the subjects were current smokers; smoking had a significant relationship with gender variables, history of probation, close friends that smoked, and employment (P < 0.05). Conclusions: In comparison to other studies, the smoking prevalence was relatively high. Therefore, the necessity of proper education about the harms and health effects of smoking are felt more than ever.
6 citations
TL;DR: In this article, a cross sectional study has been conducted on 529 male and female athletes and 840 non-athletes in fitness clubs in Ahvaz city and the relationship between anthropometric indices with body fat percentage was studied.
Abstract: Background: Different indices have been introduced to assess the anthropometric status and body composition. Objectives: This study was conducted to compare anthropometric indices in male and female athletes and non-athletes. Methods: This cross sectional study has been conducted on 529 (324 men and 205 women) athletes (age, 32.8 ± 9.2 years) and 840 (457 men and 383 women) non-athletes (age, 33.9 ± 10.4 years) in fitness clubs in Ahvaz city. Individuals were selected by cluster sampling. Weight, body mass index, body fat percentage, waist-to-hip ratio, waist-to-height ratio and body surface area were measured. The relationship between anthropometric indices with body fat percentage was studied. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 22. Normality of the data was assessed by using the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test. To compare variables between the two groups, the t-test and Mann-Whitney test were used. The relationship between anthropometric indices was assessed by linear regression. Results: Waist-to-hip ratio in male athletes and non-athletes had the most correlation with body fat percentage (r = 0.821 and r = 0.889, respectively). Body mass index in female athletes and non-athletes had the most correlation with percentage of body fat (r = 0.780 and r = 0.863, respectively). Conclusions: The results of this study show that the use of appropriate anthropometric indicators can be influenced by gender and physical activity (athletes or non-athletes).
5 citations
TL;DR: Investigation of Quercus infectoria Olivier extract effects on hydatid cysts delineate higher scolicidal efficacy of Q. infectoria’s methanolic extracts; nevertheless, more research should be conducted to confirm the in vivo effects of Q .
Abstract: Background: Chemotherapy is currently used in treatment of different diseases, yet its various adverse effects has led to difficulties in its use for treating hydatid cysts. This leads to use of different non-chemical materials, such as plant extracts as alternatives to chemotherapy in order to cure hydatid cysts. Objectives: The aim of the present study was to investigate Quercus infectoria Olivier extract effects on hydatid cysts. Methods: In this experimental study, various concentrations of Quercus infectoria Olivier extract at different exposure times were evaluated under laboratory conditions for their scolicidal effects on hydatid cysts. To this end, protoscoleces were collected from the livers of sheep affected by hydatid cysts and they were placed under exposure of various concentrations of Q. infectoria extract (10, 25, and 50 mg/mL) for various durations of 10, 20, 30, and 60 minutes. Staining with 0.1% eosin was used to specify the viability of protoscoleces. The SPSS software (version 19, Chicago) was the software used to perform the statistical analysis. Results: The obtained results indicate that Q. infectoria extract with the concentration of 50 mg/mL is able to kill all protoscoleces during 20 minutes. It is understood that the scolicidal effects of Q. infectoria on hydatid cysts was significant compared to the control groups (P < 0.05). Conclusions: The obtained results delineate higher scolicidal efficacy of Q. infectoria’s methanolic extracts; nevertheless, more research should be conducted to confirm the in vivo effects of Q. infectoria on curing hydatid cysts in human beings and different herbivorous animals.
5 citations
TL;DR: Based on the results of this study, it is essential that medical care and support forums related to refractory patients to reduce psychological symptoms in patients use mindfulness-based cognitive therapy in their treatment programs.
Abstract: Background: This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of mindfulness-based cognitive group therapy (MBCT) on reducing suicidal thoughts and death anxiety of patients with cancer Materials and Methods: This study was applied and semi-experimental conducted by using pre-test and post-test with a control group The research community included all patients with cancer who referred to Shahid Mohammadi hospital in Bandar Abbas It contained 30 cancer patients who were selected through purposive sampling method and randomly placed in two experimental and control groups (15 individuals per group) The members of both groups completed Templer’s death anxiety questionnaire and Beck's suicidal thoughts before and after the sessions of group therapy (within three months) Findings were analyzed by SPSS software and univariate covariance analysis (ANCOVA) test Results: The results showed that mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) training significantly reduced the suicidal thoughts and death anxiety in the experimental group (P < 001) Conclusion: Based on the results of this study, it is essential that medical care and support forums related to refractory patients to reduce psychological symptoms in patients use mindfulness-based cognitive therapy in their treatment programs
TL;DR: The finding indicates that a regular aerobic exercise program is a compensation intervention for osteoporosis in asthma patients with inhaled glucocorticostroid.
Abstract: Background and Objectives: Some recent studies have proven that an association between inhaled glucocorticostroid and osteoporosis in asthma patients. The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of aerobic training program on serum osteocalcin and alkaline phosphatase as formation bone indicators in asthma patients. Methods: In this semi-experimental study, twenty four sedentary middle-aged asthma males treatment with inhaled glucocorticostroid aged 38 ± 6 years; BMI, 31.5 ± 3 kg/m2 were randomized to aerobic training (n = 12) and control (n = 12) groups. Fasting blood samples (8:00 - 9:00 a.m.) were collected from the antecubital vein before and after aerobic training for measure serum osteocalcin and alkaline phosphatase of 2 groups. Anthropometrical markers were also measured in all subjects before and after training program. The exercise program consisted of 40 - 60 minutes on treadmill at intensity range of 55 - 75 (%) of maximal heart rate, 3 times per week for 3 months. Student’s t-tests (Version 15.0, SPSS Inc., IL, USA) were performed to determine whether there were significant within-group changes in the outcomes. Results: Aerobic intervention improved anthropometric parameters (P < 0.05). Compared to pre-training, serum osteocalcin increased significantly (P = 0.011) after exercise program but was not changed in control subjects. Serum alkaline phosphatase did not significant change in response to aerobic training. Conclusions: Based on these results, our finding indicates that a regular aerobic exercise program is a compensation intervention for osteoporosis in asthma patients with inhaled glucocorticostroid.
TL;DR: It can be concluded that BAS-2 is a psychometrically sound positive body image measure that has an acceptable validity and reliability and is applicable to research and clinical settings in Iranian context.
Abstract: Objectives: The purpose of this paper was to assess the psychometric properties of BAS-2 among university students in Urmia, Iran. Methods: This is a descriptive-exploratory study that specifically aims at validating tests. The current research goes under the rubric of standardization studies. The study population consists of university students in Urmia in the academic year of 2014 - 2015 and after providing the Persian version of the target scale using translation and back translation, the approved version of the BAS-2 as well as multidimensional body-self relations questionnaire, body dysmorphic metacognitive questionnaire, and Yale-Brown obsessive compulsive scale (modified for body dysmorphic disorder) administered to 400 university students in Urmia have been selected through quota sampling. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, face, content, construct and convergent validity, Cronbach’s alpha, and split-half reliability with SPSS and AMOS Graphics softwares. Results: The results indicated that Cronbach’s alpha coefficient and split-half reliability were 0.87 and 0.83, respectively. The face, content, construct, and convergent validity of the BAS-2 were confirmed to be in consistent with other instruments. The results of CFA to obtain the construct validity indicated that every 10 items showed high factor loading with the total score. BAS-2 scale has an acceptable validity and reliability and is applicable to research and clinical settings in Iranian context. Conclusions: It can be concluded that BAS-2 is a psychometrically sound positive body image measure.
TL;DR: Investigation of the scolicidal effects of Berberis vulgaris, Peganom harmala, and Zataria multiflora methanolic extracts on protoscolices of hydatid cyst showed that B. vulgaris and Z. multiflorA extracts can be natural sources to develop new scoliidal agents used in hydatids cyst surgery to prevent recurrence of the disease.
Abstract: Background: Surgery is one of the most common strategies to treat hydatidosis reserved as a complementary treatment with chemical agents. Due to low efficacy and the adverse effects of these chemical agents, it is necessary to develop a new and effective scolicidal agent to prevent the recurrence of hydatidosis after surgery. Objectives: The current study aimed at investigating the scolicidal effects of Berberis vulgaris, Peganom harmala, and Zataria multiflora methanolic extracts on protoscolices of hydatid cyst. Methods: Protoscolices were aseptically obtained from sheep livers infected with hydatid cyst in Hamadan slaughterhouse (Hamadan, Iran). After methanol extraction of herbs, different concentrations of extracts were used in various exposure time for mortality rate assay of protoscolices in laboratory. Results: The obtained results showed that various concentrations of B. vulgaris and Z. multiflora extracts could kill 100% of protoscolices after five minutes of exposure and the mean of mortality rate of protoscolices was remarkably higher in the experiment group comparison with that of the control group (P 0.05). Conclusions: The current study findings showed that B. vulgaris and Z. multiflora extracts can be natural sources to develop new scolicidal agents used in hydatid cyst surgery to prevent recurrence of the disease. However, the in vitro examination revealed that the P. harmala extract had no strong scolicidal activities.
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors evaluated the prophylactic effect of vitamin C on passive avoidance learning and memory in 20 male Sprague-Dawley rats for 30 consecutive days (4 h/day).
Abstract: Background: Hazardous health effects of the exposure to radiofrequency waves (RFWs) have become of great public concern and impaired memory has been reported following the exposure to electromagnetic radiations. Objectives: As the deleterious effects of the RFW on passive avoidance learning and memory had already been reported, the aim of this study was to evaluate the prophylactic effect of vitamin C on this activity. Methods: 20 male Sprague-Dawley rats (230 ± 20 g) were divided randomly into four groups as: control, control-exposed (exposed to 900 MHz RFW), control treatment (without exposure to RFW receiving 250 mg/kg of body weight/day L-ascorbic acid by gavage), and treatment (exposed to 900MHz RFW receiving the abovementioned dose of vitamin C) groups. The exposure was performed for 30 consecutive days (4 h/day). Learning and memory were evaluated in the last day by the shuttle box and expressed as the period of remaining within the light area; this time was called “light time”. Results: The exposure to RFW significantly decreased the duration of light time in the control-exposed group compared to the other three groups (P < 0.05). In the fourth group, vitamin C significantly increased the light time compared to the control-exposed group (P < 0.05). No significant difference was observed between control, control treatment, and treatment groups. Conclusions: Exposure to RFW significantly altered the passive avoidance behavior. Vitamin C probably due to its antioxidant effects has facilitative results on the acquisition and retrieval activities of passive avoidance learning and memory in rats.
TL;DR: Treatment of S. pachycarpaextract resulted in remarkable improvement in testicular histopathological alterations caused by CCl4 in testis sections, possibly via its bioactive compounds having antioxidant effects.
Abstract: Background: Carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) is an industrial solvent that causes kidney, lung, testicles, brain, and blood diseases. In the present study, we investigated protective effects of Sophora pachycarpa extracts on testicular histopathology damage in rats intoxicated with carbon tetrachloride (CCl4). Methods: In this study, divided into six experimental groups (n = 6): 3 groups as pre-treatment, received extract of S. pachycarpa at 50 mg/kg/day, 100 mg/kg/day, and 250 mg/kg/day doses by gavage procedure for 21 days before intraperitoneal injection of 500 μL/kg CCl4 on the day of 21, control group receiving 500 μL/kg CCl4 on the day of 21, post-treatment group received 100 mg/kg/day extract for 10 days and 12 h after injection of 250 μL/kg CCl4. The testicular tissues were samples at the end of the treatments for histological examination. Results: Histopathological examination of testis in CCl4-treatment group showed degeneration in seminiferous tubules and germ cells, intercellular dehiscence, and loss of cells into the lumen. Treatment of S. pachycarpa extract (250 mg/kg) resulted in remarkable improvement in testicular histopathological alterations caused by CCl4 in testis sections. Conclusions: Based on the findings, it is concluded that the extract of Sophora pachycarpa can improve the adverse effects of CCl4 on testicular tissue, possibly via its bioactive compounds having antioxidant effects.
TL;DR: Both aerobic and anaerobic exercises result in reduction of stress and Anxiety, so it seems necessary to include such exercises in students’ daily schedule.
Abstract: Background and Objectives: Exercises bring about health. Therefore, knowing what kind of exercise is more effective in individuals’ spirituals health indices is important. Thus, the present study aims at comparing the impact of aerobic and anaerobic exercises on the level of depression, anxiety, stress, and happiness of nonathletic male students. Methods: In this clinical trial study, sample included the nonathletic male students of Zahedan Azad University in 2014. 90 students were selected through convenience sampling and they were divided randomly into two experimental groups (aerobic and anaerobic) and one control group. The aerobic group must do aerobic exercises and the anaerobic group must do anaerobic exercises for a period of 10 weeks (3 sessions a week, each lasted for 60 minutes). The data were collected using DASS-21 questionnaire for measuring the level of depression, anxiety and stress, and Oxford OHI questionnaire for measuring the amount of happiness before and after the intervention. The results were analyzed using statistical tests of MANCOVA in SPSS-13. Results: The results showed that in both aerobic and anaerobic groups the mean score of depression, anxiety, stress and happiness improved after treatment. However, the improve in the mean score of anxiety, stress and happiness was more apparent in the anaerobic group. The results also showed that only stress and happiness resulted in a significant difference in different groups. Conclusions: Both aerobic and anaerobic exercises result in reduction of stress and Anxiety. So it seems necessary to include such exercises in students’ daily schedule.
TL;DR: In this article, the authors compared attachment styles in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) and healthy controls (non-CAD subjects) and found that attachment styles are more insecure in CAD patients than in healthy people.
Abstract: Objectives: The present study compared attachment styles in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) and healthy controls (non-CAD subjects). Methods: This was a descriptive study with an ex-post facto design. The sample included 60 people (30 patients with CAD and 30 healthy controls), attending the office of an interventional cardiologist in Mashhad, selected by a convenience sampling method. They completed the adult attachment questionnaire. Data were analyzed using multivariate analysis of variance. Results: The results of multivariate analysis of variance revealed that there was a significant difference in attachment styles between CAD patients and healthy controls so that healthy controls in the secure attachment style and CAD patients in the insecure attachment styles had a higher score. Conclusions: The findings confirm that attachment styles are more insecure in CAD patients than in healthy people. These results suggest that insecure attachment styles increase the risk of coronary heart disease.
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors explored the effect of concurrent strength and aerobic training on body composition, glycosylated hemoglobin (GHE), fasting blood sugar (FBS), homeostasis model assessment-estimated insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), plasma insulin, high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipid (LDL), total cholesterol (TC), and triglyceride (TG) between the females with overweight and obesity.
Abstract: Background: Physical activity is recognized as a basic component of the management of children with obesity. Objectives: The current study aimed at exploring the effect of a 12-week concurrent strength and aerobic training on body composition, glycosylated hemoglobin, fasting blood sugar (FBS), homeostasis model assessment-estimated insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), plasma insulin, high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), total cholesterol (TC), and triglyceride (TG) between the females with overweight and obesity. Methods: The current semi-experimental study was conducted on 40 females (20 with obesity and 20 with overweight) aged 13 - 15 years selected and randomly assigned into four groups. Strength training was performed three days a week each session for 30 minutes at 50% to 80% of 1 repetition maximum (1RM), and aerobic training started from 50% and progressively reached 80% of maximum heart rate. Blood samples and anthropometric parameters were measured before and after practice. Data were analyzed by covariance. P 0.05). Conclusions: The current study suggested that concurrent strength and aerobic training can improve body composition of females with overweight and obesity, and normal blood lipid and glucose hemostasis. However, it did not affect glucose hemostasis and lipid profile.
TL;DR: This study showed that sensation seeking as a personality factor and family function as an environmental factor can effect on student’s tendency towards drug.
Abstract: Background: Drug addiction is a painful fact especially in the youth population. It is one of the main social, economic and hygienic problem, which has negative effects on the human life. Therefore, finding predisposing factors of addiction can help decrease this phenomenon. Family function and sensation seeking are two factors that seems to play a role in tendency towards drug abuse. Thus, the main purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship among tendency towards drug abuse, family function, and sensation seeking in university students and gender differences in prediction of tendency towards drug abuse. Methods: In this descriptive-correlational study, a total of 350 university students were selected by the convenience sampling method in Yazd University. They were evaluated by Addiction Potential Scale (Weed, 1992), Family Assessment Device Scale (McMaster, 1983), and Sensation Seeking Scale (Zukerman, 1968). Data analysis was done by Regression Analysis. Results: Findings showed that family function among female students and sensation seeking among male students is significantly related to the tendency towards drug abuse (P < 0.05); in addition, regression analysis showed that roles subscale of family function among female respondents and adventure subscale of sensation seeking among male respondents were predictors of tendency towards drug. Conclusions: This study showed that sensation seeking as a personality factor and family function as an environmental factor can effect on student’s tendency towards drug.
TL;DR: In this article, the authors evaluated the coliform contamination of raw cow's milk and the level of endotoxin in it and found that increasing the number of coliforms in milk samples is consistent with an increase in endotoxin levels.
Abstract: Background: Milk forms a considerable part of the necessary materials needed for the physical and mental growth of all community members, especially children and the elderly. Since milk is a suitable culture medium for the growth of many bacteria, strict standards have been introduced for its safety. The aim of this study was to evaluate the coliform contamination of raw cow’s milk and the level of endotoxin in it. Methods: Using random sampling, 43 samples of raw cow’s milk were collected in Isfahan, Iran. Coliforms were identified by biochemical tests. Then, the molecular method was employed for the definitive identification of the coliforms. Moreover, endotoxin levels were assessed employing the limulus amebocyte lysate (LAL) test. Results: Results indicated the presence of coliforms in 17 (39.45%) of the raw milk samples. Based on the molecular identification of the isolated coliforms, 10 samples were contaminated with Escherichia coli, five with Enterobacter spp., and two with Klebsiella pneumoniae. The results of the LAL test showed that 17 samples contained 0.250 units, six samples contained 0.125 units, and 20 samples contained 0.063 units of endotoxin. Conclusions: There was a significant correlation between coliform contamination of raw cow’s milk and 0.250 unit/mL endotoxin (P < 0.001). Increasing the number of coliforms in milk samples is consistent with the increase in endotoxin levels.
TL;DR: In this article, the effects of high-intensity interval versus moderate intensity combined resistance and aerobic training on some adipokines related to insulin resistance (interleukin-6 [IL-6], apelin, and monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 (MCP-1)) in women with Type 2 diabetes were compared.
Abstract: Background: The impaired adipocytes secrete factors observed in diabetes contribute to insulin resistance. The purpose of the present study was to compare the effects of high-intensity interval versus moderate intensity combined resistance and aerobic training on some adipokines related to insulin resistance (interleukin-6 [IL-6], apelin, and monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 (MCP-1)) in women with type 2 diabetes. Methods: Fifty two females with type 2 diabetes (aged 45 - 60 years, the HbA1C value of 6.5% or above, and fasting blood glucose ≥ 126 mg/dL (7.0 mmol/L)) were assessed for eligibility. The participants were assigned to a HIIT group (n = 17), a combined resistance and aerobic training group (n = 17), and a control group (n = 18) randomly. The exercises included 10 weeks of combined training and HIIT. Results: TNF-α concentrations changed significantly in the HIIT (P = 0.001) and combined training (P = 0.015) groups. The same test revealed that the differences were significant for the IL-6 in the HIIT (P 0.05). The ANCOVA test showed no significant differences in apelin (F = 0.511, P = 0.12). Conclusions: The results highlight that exercise training, independent of the mode of training, is an effective strategy to improve some adipokines related to insulin resistance in women with type 2 diabetes.
TL;DR: The combination of resistance training with green tea resulted in a significant reduction in the average body fat percentage, BMI, waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), and triglyceride and also a significant increase in HDL.
Abstract: Background: The prevalence of obesity has led to an increase in research on obesity and cardiovascular disease and its metabolic risks. Objectives: This research aimed at exploring the combined effect of resistance training and green tea supplements on the lipid profile and anthropometric indices of overweight and obese males in a definite period of time. Methods: In this clinical trial study, 60 males aged 34 ± 8 with a body mass index (BMI) of 29.88 ± 2.08 Kg.m-2 were randomly assigned to four groups of 15, namely the control group, green tea group, resistance training group, and group combining resistance training with green tea. Resistance training was done three times a week for eight weeks. The green tea supplement was a capsule containing 500 mg of powdered green tea leaves. The subjects were asked to take three capsules a day. The lipid profile comprised of cholesterol, triglyceride, high-density lipoprotein (HDL), and low-density lipoprotein (LDL). Anthropometric indices consisted of the BMI, waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), and body fat percentage before and after the intervention. In order to analyze the results, descriptive and analytical statistical methods were employed. Results: The combination of resistance training with green tea resulted in a significant reduction in the average body fat percentage, BMI, WHR, and triglyceride and also a significant increase in HDL (P < 0.05) yet had no effect on the average LDL and cholesterol. Conclusions: Combining resistance training with the consumption of green tea supplements for eight weeks can reduce the average of anthropometric indices and some lipid profile blood in overweight and obese males. Therefore, it is recommended for overweight and obese males to take benefit of the positive combined effects of resistance training and green tea to reduce their BMI, WHR, body fat percentage, and blood fats.
TL;DR: In this article, the effects of Capparis spinosa, Withania somnifera, and Peganum harmala extracts on Aspergillus flavus growth and the expression of some major genes in aflatoxin biosynthetic pathway were investigated.
Abstract: Background: Aflatoxins, a polyketide group derived from furanocoumarins, are highly toxic carcinogens produced by Aspergillus flavus and other closely related species. Objectives: In this research, the effects of Capparis spinosa, Withania somnifera, and Peganum harmala extracts on A. flavus growth and the expression of some major genes in aflatoxin biosynthetic pathway were investigated. Methods: Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC) were measured and the expression of aflQ, aflO, aflS, and aflR genes was evaluated by using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) technique. Results: Capparis spinosa extract had the lowest MIC value (200 mg/mL) and the extracts of W. somnifera and P. harmala had the highest MIC value (400 mg/mL). The extracts of W. somnifera and P. harmala had no fungicidal activity, and the C. spinosa extract had the lowest MFC value (400 mg/mL) and had the highest fungicidal effect on A. flavus. The expression of aflQ, aflO, aflS, and aflR genes was significantly decreased by the C. spinosa extract. Conclusions: In general, the C. spinosa extract could have fungicidal and inhibitory effects on A. flavus and reduce expression of major genes in the aflatoxin biosynthetic pathway.
TL;DR: This study supports the conclusion that there is a significant difference between the comprehension of Morpho-syntactic patterns device as a whole in the speech of Persian speaking Alzheimer’s and normal elderly people.
Abstract: Background: Alzheimer’s disease can give rise to aphasia and difficulties with word finding, naming, and word comprehension. Also it can affect the comprehension of morpho-syntactic patterns device as one of cohesive devices. Objectives: The purpose of this research is to investigate and compare the comprehension of sub-devices of morpho-syntactic patterns in the speech of Persian-speaking elderly people with Alzheimer’s disease and the normal elderly based on Dooley and Levinson’s perspective. Sub-devices of morpho-syntactic patterns include consistency of inflectional categories, echoic utterances and discourse-pragmatic structuring. Methods: This descriptive-analytic and cross-sectional research conducted on the speech of 12 elderly people comprising 6 Alzheimer and 6 normal individuals 74 to 90 years old who were selected using available sampling method. The data was analyzed by SPSS software and T-test. Results: The findings indicate, except for the consistency of inflectional categories (P = 0.017), in other two subsets including echoic utterances (P = 0.411) and discourse-pragmatic structuring (P = 0.245). However, in overall analysis of this device (P = 0.026). Conclusions: This study supports the conclusion that there is a significant difference between the comprehension of Morpho-syntactic patterns device as a whole in the speech of Persian speaking Alzheimer’s and normal elderly people.
TL;DR: Investigation of the effect of PFF hydroalcoholic extract on some blood biochemical parameters in insulin resistance model of rats found it might be useful for the treatment of hyperglycemic and hyperlipidemic in diabetic patients.
Abstract: Background and Objective: Prosopis farcta fruit (PFF) is known to have antioxidant activity. Antioxidants can reduce and prevent dyslipidemia and hyperglycemic in diabetic patients. This study was conducted to investigate the effect of PFF hydroalcoholic extract on some blood biochemical parameters in insulin resistance model of rats. Methods: In this experimental study, diabetes was induced by feeding the animals with fructose (12% w/v) and soybean (20% dry matter) for 6 weeks followed by a single intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (30 mg/kg). The animals were divided into four groups: 1 and 2) Healthy and diabetic controls; 3 and 4) healthy and diabetic rats receiving PFF (100 mg/kg body weight). The blood samples were collected and the serum concentrations of glucose, triglycerides, cholesterol, HDL-C, LDL-C and VLDL-C were investigated. Results: Streptozotocin increased serum levels of glucose, triglycerides, cholesterol and LDL-C (P < 0.05), but PFF extract lowered the serum concentrations of these variables (P < 0.05) in diabetic rats. Conclusions: PFF extract might be useful for the treatment of hyperglycemic and hyperlipidemic in diabetic patients.
TL;DR: In this article, the cytotoxic effect of ABZ on breast cancer cell lines, MDA-MB-231 and MCF7, and on the melanoma cell line, B16F10, were evaluated with MTT assay for the first time.
Abstract: Background: There are many strategies to cure cancer, therefore, many drugs have been evaluated in this field. Albendazole (ABZ), derivative of benzimidazole, has a wide range of anti human and animal worm effects. The anti tumor effect of ABZ in both animal and human clinical trials has been reported. Objectives: In the present study, the cytotoxic effect of ABZ on breast cancer cell lines, MDA-MB-231 and MCF7, and on the melanoma cell line, B16F10, were evaluated with MTT assay for the first time. Methods: Different doses of ABZ for two breast cancer cell lines and the melanoma cell line were investigated. ANOVA was employed to analyze the data. Mean comparisons were carried out by Dunnett’s test in SPSS (version 18.0) statistical software. Results: The results showed that ABZ (0.1, 1, 10, 100µM) significantly reduced the viability of MCF7, the percent of declines to different concentrations of ABZ, 0.1, 1, 10, and 100 µM, were 15, 32, 38, and 44 accordingly, indicating enhancement ABZ toxicity effect towards its rising concentration (P value ≤ 0.001). However, significant toxicity effect of ABZ on the MDA-MB-231 was only apparent at concentration of 100 µM with approximately 27% reduction in viability (P value ≤ 0.05). In addition, this effect on B16F10 in all ABZ concentration levels was significant, resulting in 34%, 18%, and 27% reduction in cell viability for ABZ concentrations 100, 10, and 1µM accordingly, indicating the higher impact at the first and third concentrations than second concentration (P value ≤ 0.001). Conclusions: According to the cytotoxic effects of ABZ on breast cancer and melanoma cells, it can be used as a promising adjuvant along with other chemotherapy drugs.
TL;DR: The performance of children with dyslexia was weaker than those without Dyslexia in regards to their working and visual memory.
Abstract: Objectives: This study aimed at comparing working and visual memory in children with and without dyslexia. Methods: The sample consisted of 61 children without dyslexia and 64 children with dyslexia from third to sixth grade in elementary school. The inclusion criteria were children aged nine to 12 who had no history of medical eye disease and visual impairment, the exclusion criteria were mentally retarded children. Purposeful sampling was used to collect the data. The participants completed Wechsler forward and backward digit span test and Benton Visual Test. A multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) was used to analyze the data. Results: Results showed that there was a significant difference between normal children and those with dyslexia regarding their direct memory (F = 25.34, P < 0.001, partial eta square = 0.18), backward memory (F = 30.78, P < 0.001, partial eta square = 0.21), and Benton Visual Retention (F = 17.56, P < 0.001, partial eta square = 0.13). Conclusions: The performance of children with dyslexia was weaker than those without dyslexia in regards to their working and visual memory. The highest level of impairment was seen in backward, direct, and visual memory, respectively, in children with dyslexia. Theoretical and practical implications of the findings will be discussed.
TL;DR: Insulin and/or exercise can prevent stress-induced memory deficits and is as effective as exercise alone and insulin alone for preventing the detrimental effects of stress.
Abstract: Background: Studies have shown that exercise and insulin can improve cognitive function. However, little is known about the combined effects of insulin and exercise on memory and learning under stress conditions. Objectives: This study was designed to investigate the effects of peripheral insulin injection and/or physical exercise on stress-induced memory deficit. Methods: Adult male Wistar rats (200 - 220 g) received immobilization stress (2 h/d × 7 d), mild-intensity exercise (30 min/d × 7 d), intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection of insulin (1, 6, 12 IU/kg) or saline, insulin-exercise treatment, or no intervention. The animals were assigned on a random basis to 21 experimental groups (N = 10). They were trained and tested in the Morris water maze. Results: Chronic restraint stress impaired spatial performance in the Morris water maze (P < 0.05) and elevated serum corticosterone levels (P < 0.001). Detrimental effects of stress were alleviated by exercise (P < 0.01). The lower dose (1 IU/kg) of insulin protected the animals against the deleterious effects of stress. The combined effects of exercise and insulin (low and moderate doses) prevented stress-induced learning and memory impairment. Conclusions: Insulin and/or exercise can prevent stress-induced memory deficits. The cognitive benefits of exercise continue to evolve after cessation of treatment. Insulin-exercise treatment is as effective as exercise alone and insulin alone for preventing the detrimental effects of stress.
TL;DR: In this article, the authors investigated the inhibitory effects of biologically synthesized silver nanoparticles on the growth of E coli and its negative impact on capsule formation as the virulence factor of the pathogen.
Abstract: Background: The production of novel antibiotics inhibiting virulence factors of pathogenic bacteria has emerged as a promising approach to combat the emergence of resistant strains Acknowledging the harmful effect and considerable spread of pathogenic strains of Escherichia coli, this research aimed at investigating the inhibitory effects of biologically synthesized silver nanoparticles on the growth of E coli and its negative impact on capsule formation as the virulence factor of the pathogen Methods: Silver nanoparticles were synthesized by the addition of silver nitrate to a fresh culture of Shewanella oneidensis The inhibitory effect of the nanoparticles on E coli growth was investigated by serial microdilution method The expression of alpha-hemolysin (hly) under nanoparticle treatment was quantitatively evaluated using a real-time PCR The growth rate of E coli under nanoparticles treatment was monitored at a 12-hour interval Results: It was revealed that monodisperse spherical silver nanoparticles were produced to significantly inhibit the bacterial growth at a concentration of 50 μg/mL (MIC = 50 μg/mL) Furthermore, the expression of alpha-hemolysin (hly) was downregulated by the nanoparticles even at concentrations below the MIC value Conclusions: In general, the research findings revealed that silver nanoparticles produced by green approach could be used as appropriate candidates for the development of new antibacterial medicines