Background and Objective: Neuroprotective effects of resveratrol in the context of cerebrovascular conditions has been reported. In the present study, the effect of resveratrol on functional outcomes was investigated among a group of acute ischemic stroke patients who received recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (rt-PA) after 3 hours of stroke onset. Methods: This clinical trial study (trial registration number: IRCT20191020045162N1) was registered on 2020-03-12. Sixty patients with acute ischemic stroke who underwent rt-PA therapy between 3 to 4:30 hours after stroke onset participated in the study. They were allocated into resveratrol and placebo groups by permuted block randomization method. The first group received 450 mg of resveratrol in three daily doses and the other group received a placebo containing excipient for 30 days. Outcomes were measured by the national institute of health stroke scale (NIHSS), modified Rankin Scale (MRS), and Barthel index (BI) at discharge as well as three and six months after the stroke. The outcomes were compared between groups by repeated measures analysis. Results: Although the NIHSS score significantly decreased over time in both groups, resveratrol had no significant therapeutic effect on NIHSS outcomes compared to placebo (P = 0.99). After three- and six-month reexaminations, MRS decreased and Barthel index increased significantly over time in the resveratrol group, indicating less handicap and more functional recovery compared to the placebo group. Conclusion: Resveratrol improved long-term functional recovery measured by MRS and Barthel index.
Background: Dietary exposures have been proposed as modifiable factors influencing Parkinson’s disease (PD) risk, yet observational evidence remains heterogeneous and often inconsistent. Methods: We conducted a systematic review of PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science for studies published between January 1, 2015, and June 30, 2025. Eligible studies included prospective cohorts, case–control, and cross-sectional studies that used validated or semi-validated dietary assessment instruments to evaluate dietary intake in relation to PD. Studies lacking verifiable publication metadata (DOI, PMID, or retrievable records) were excluded. Data extraction was performed independently in duplicate. Study quality was assessed using a modified Newcastle-Ottawa Scale and the ROBINS-I framework, with certainty of evidence evaluated via GRADE. Due to anticipated heterogeneity in exposures, outcomes, and study designs, a narrative thematic synthesis was pre-specified as the primary analytic approach. Heterogeneity was not quantitatively pooled in this review; the included meta-analysis (Hong et al.) reported I² = 58%. Formal sensitivity analysis excluding unverifiable studies was not feasible (they were excluded a priori), but comparison of exposure categories showed no unique dietary domains among unverifiable reports. Results: Six verified studies (total n >1.2 million participants; >25,000 incident PD cases) and one meta-analysis met inclusion criteria. Consistent evidence from high-quality prospective cohorts indicated that higher coffee or caffeine consumption was inversely associated with PD risk. In contrast, frequent dairy intake, particularly low-fat milk, was associated with modestly elevated risk. Evidence regarding alcohol, dietary fats, micronutrients, and overall dietary patterns was limited, heterogeneous, or of lower certainty. Most studies were rated moderate risk of bias, with large prospective cohorts providing the most robust findings. Conclusions: Verified observational evidence suggests that habitual caffeine intake may confer neuroprotective effects, whereas high consumption of specific dairy products may modestly increase PD risk. Associations for other dietary exposures remain inconclusive. Future studies should incorporate biomarker-validated dietary assessment, mechanistic endpoints, and harmonized cohort designs to clarify causal pathways and inform evidence-based dietary guidance for PD prevention.
Background: Chronic unpredictable stress (CUS) during gestation disrupts maternal hepatic function via oxidative and inflammatory pathways. Moringa oleifera has well-documented antioxidant and cytoprotective properties; however, its effects on maternal hepatic function under prenatal stress remain insufficiently characterized. Objectives: This study evaluated the dose-dependent effects of Moringa oleifera leaf extract (MoLE) on hepatic enzyme activity and bilirubin levels in pregnant Wistar rats exposed to CUS. Methods: Thirty pregnant Wistar rats were randomly assigned to six groups (n = 5): control, stress only, low-dose MoLE (5 mg/kg), high-dose MoLE (10 mg/kg), low-dose MoLE + CUS, and high-dose MoLE + CUS. Randomization was performed using a simple random allocation procedure. MoLE was administered orally from gestational day (GD) 8 to 21, concurrently with CUS exposure, where applicable. On GD 21, serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), total bilirubin, and direct bilirubin were quantified using standard spectrophotometric assays. Results: Exposure to CUS significantly increased serum ALP, ALT, AST, and bilirubin levels compared with those in controls (P < 0.01), indicating hepatic dysfunction. High-dose MoLE administered alone maintained biochemical indices comparable to control values, whereas low-dose MoLE induced mild elevations in hepatic markers. Under CUS conditions, high-dose MoLE markedly attenuated stress-induced biochemical alterations, whereas low-dose MoLE provided limited protective effects. Conclusions: Moringa oleifera leaf extract modulated stress-induced hepatic dysfunction in pregnant rats in a dose-dependent manner. Supplementation at 10 mg/kg effectively attenuated CUS-associated hepatic biochemical disturbances, suggesting a potential role for appropriately dosed M oleifera in mitigating prenatal stress-related oxidative hepatic injury.
Background: Submucosal fibroids are a major cause of abnormal uterine bleeding, anemia, pelvic pain, and infertility. Hysteroscopic myomectomy is the preferred minimally invasive treatment, but data on its long-term outcomes and reproductive benefits remain limited. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness, safety, and reproductive outcomes of hysteroscopic myomectomy in patients with submucosal myomas. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted on 327 women who underwent hysteroscopic myomectomy at Shahid Beheshti and Alzahra hospitals. Data on preoperative symptoms, intraoperative complications, postoperative outcomes, and follow-up were collected from medical records and phone interviews. Results: The mean age of patients was 43.2 ± 7.0 years. The most common presenting symptom was abnormal uterine bleeding (96%), followed by anemia (61.8%), pelvic pain (22.3%), infertility (14.1%), and urinary complaints (2.4%). Complication rates were low, with uterine perforation (0.3%), hemorrhage (1.8%), prolonged hospitalization (0.6%), and postoperative fever (0.3%) occurring infrequently. Repeat myomectomy was necessary in 7.6% of cases, while 10.7% required subsequent total laparoscopic hysterectomy (TLH). Overall, 70.6% of patients achieved complete symptom resolution, and 95.4% reported satisfaction with the procedure. Among 44 infertile women, 28 (63.6%) conceived after surgery, including 22 spontaneous and 6 assisted reproductive technology (ART) pregnancies. Conclusions: Hysteroscopic myomectomy is an effective and minimally invasive treatment for submucosal fibroids, offering substantial symptom relief, high patient satisfaction, and favorable fertility outcomes. With low complication and reoperation rates, it remains a valuable therapeutic option for women seeking both symptom control and fertility preservation.
Background: Conduct disorder (CD) in childhood and adolescence is closely associated with family-related factors, particularly parenting style and parental satisfaction. Examining these parental characteristics and their association with CD severity and sociodemographic factors may contribute to improved assessment and intervention strategies. Objectives: This study aimed to examine the associations among parental satisfaction, parenting style, ideal parenting style, and CD severity in children and adolescents, while also adjusting for selected sociodemographic factors. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 60 parents of children and adolescents diagnosed with CD who were recruited using convenience sampling. Data were collected using the Socio-Demographic Information Questionnaire, the Dibble and Cohen Parent Report, the Kansas Parental Satisfaction Scale, and the Rating Scale for Diagnosis of Conduct Disorder. Statistical analyses, including correlation and Bayesian analyses, were conducted using SPSS version 26. Results: Most participants reported normal levels of parental satisfaction (66.7%), parenting style (51.7%), and ideal parenting style (65.0%). Children and adolescents exhibited a considerable level of CD severity (146.42 ± 17.14). CD severity was significantly negatively correlated with parental satisfaction (r = -0.27, P = 0.03), parenting style (r = -0.44, P = 0.001), and ideal parenting style (r = -0.42, P = 0.001). Bayesian analysis further indicated meaningful associations and predictive relationships between parental variables and sociodemographic characteristics. Higher parental educational and economic status was positively associated with parental satisfaction, parenting style, and ideal parenting style, whereas parental mental disorders and increasing age were negatively associated with these variables. Conclusions: Parenting-related factors, particularly parental satisfaction and parenting style, are significantly associated with CD severity. These findings underscore the importance of considering family characteristics when assessing and managing CD and related outcomes.
Introduction: Ameloblastomas are among the most common locally aggressive benign odontogenic tumors of the jaws. They predominantly arise in the posterior mandible, whereas anterior mandibular involvement is uncommon. Ameloblastomas are classified into multicystic, unicystic, peripheral, and desmoplastic variants. The unicystic subtype is reported less frequently than conventional ameloblastoma. It typically presents as a pericoronal radiolucency that mimics a dentigerous cyst, but it may also occur in interradicular, periapical, or edentulous areas. Radiographically, it usually appears as a unilocular radiolucency, whereas multilocular presentations are infrequent. This report presents a case of mural unicystic ameloblastoma, a subtype associated with a higher risk of recurrence. Case Presentation: A 42-year-old woman presented with a 2-month history of painless swelling in the anterior mandible. Clinical examination revealed a 3 x 5 cm hard, fixed mass without purulent discharge, inflammation, or paresthesia. Panoramic radiography showed a well-defined mixed radiolucent-radiopaque lesion in the anterior mandible, extending from the right first premolar to the left second premolar and causing root displacement and resorption. Computed tomography confirmed cortical expansion and thinning, as well as dystrophic calcifications. The provisional diagnosis favored a benign odontogenic tumor, and incisional biopsy suggested ameloblastic fibroma. Following segmental mandibular resection with a 1.5-cm safety margin, comprehensive histopathological analysis confirmed mural unicystic ameloblastoma. No clinical or radiographic evidence of recurrence was observed during the short 6-month follow-up period. Conclusions: A definitive diagnosis requires thorough histological evaluation of the entire specimen because clinical and radiographic features alone are insufficient for accurate preoperative prediction. Lesions with potentially aggressive features require expert pathological assessment to ensure accurate diagnosis and optimal treatment planning.
Background: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrine disorder among women of reproductive age and is often associated with impaired glucose tolerance (IGT). Evidence on the prevalence of IGT in Iranian women with PCOS is limited. Objectives: This descriptive-analytical study aimed to assess the prevalence of IGT and to compare its frequency between women with and without PCOS referred to the infertility clinic of Ali Ibn Abi Talib Hospital in Zahedan, Iran, during 2019 - 2021. Methods: This prospective case-control study included 280 women, 225 with PCOS and 55 controls. Fasting blood glucose (FBG) and oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) values were measured. Data were analyzed using chi-square, t-test, or Mann-Whitney U test, as appropriate. Results: The mean age of women with PCOS was 28.75 ± 4.31 years versus 29.34 ± 4.61 in controls (P = 0.367). Although the prevalence of IGT was higher among women with PCOS (32.89%) than among controls (23.64%), this difference was not statistically significant (P = 0.184). In contrast, the mean 2-hour post-load glucose level was significantly higher in the PCOS group (130.00 ± 25.57 mg/dL) compared with controls (122.30 ± 23.73 mg/dL; P = 0.038). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis demonstrated a modest discriminatory ability of the 2-hour post-load glucose value for identifying IGT, with an area under the curve of 0.589 (95% CI: 0.501 - 0.677; P = 0.041). Conclusions: Women with PCOS exhibited higher mean post-load glucose levels compared with controls, although the prevalence of IGT did not differ significantly between groups. Periodic glucose tolerance screening is recommended for early detection of metabolic abnormalities and prevention of type 2 diabetes.
Introduction: Chronic meningitis is a syndrome with neurologic signs and symptoms lasting more than 4 weeks with sustained abnormal cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). It has multiple differential diagnoses as infectious, autoimmune, neoplastic, and other group diseases. It may have two etiologies and complete evaluation should be done. Here we present a co-infection of meninges with Brucella and Aspergillus. Case Presentation: The patient is a 36-year-old man with one-month neuropsychologic signs and symptoms. He had headache, vomiting, behavior disorder, and decreased level of consciousness. Cerebrospinal fluid analysis showed lymphocytic pleocytosis, low sugar, and increased protein. Brucella serology in serum and CSF was positive, concurrent with Aspergillus niger-terreus positive PCR in CSF. Conclusions: This case has 4 important points: (1) Brucella meningitis is common, and this patient is the first case of Brucella and Aspergillus co-infection; (2) Aspergillus niger or terreus meningitis alone is rare, and this patient is the first coinfection of this fungus and Brucella; (3) all possible infectious and non-infectious diseases should be evaluated, and various pathogens should be considered based on the patient’s immune status and endemicity; (4) identification of pathogenic fungal species is important to use effective drugs, contemplating antifungal sensitivity.
Background: Diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) is a serious complication of diabetes mellitus, often leading to infection, hospitalization, and lower limb amputation. Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) and poor glycemic control are considered important risk factors of DFU severity. Objectives: this study aimed to assess the association between arterial occlusion, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1C), hemoglobin (Hb) concentration, age, and sex and the severity of DFU. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, we evaluated 205 patients with DFU who were admitted to Alzahra Hospital, Isfahan, between March 2021 and March 2023. Demographic data, arterial occlusion status, HbA1C, Hb, and DFU severity were extracted from medical records. Statistical analyses were done using analysis of variance (ANOVA), chi-square, and multiple ordinal logistic regression. Results: Among 205 patients (68.8% male; mean age 59.5 ± 11.1 years), DFU severity was mild in 32.2%, moderate in 56.6%, and severe in 11.2%. Arterial occlusion was present in 65.2% of those assessed and was significantly associated with higher DFU (OR = 3.47; 95% Cl: 1.26 - 9.58; P < 0.05). Higher HbA1C levels were also associated with increased DFU severity (OR = 1.44; 95% CI: 1.16 - 1.77; P < 0.05), whereas elevated Hb levels were independently correlated with reduced odds of DFU (OR = 0.68; 95% Cl: 0.52 - 0.88; P < 0.05). Age and sex showed no significant association with DFU severity. Conclusions: Arterial occlusion, HbA1C, and Hb are associated with DFU severity. These findings underscore the potential relevance of vascular assessment, glycemic control, and anemia monitoring in the clinical evaluation of patients with DFU.
Context: Chronic low back pain (CLBP) is a prevalent and debilitating condition with limited long-term treatment options. Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) has emerged as a promising non-invasive method for pain relief and functional improvement. Data Sources: Literature searches were conducted in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, covering the years 2010 to 2024. The search was limited to English-language publications to ensure consistency and reliability in the data analyzed. Study Selection: The inclusion criteria focused on randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and clinical studies that assessed the effects of tDCS on CLBP. Studies were selected based on their relevance to the main outcomes of interest, particularly pain intensity. Data Extraction: Data extraction was performed with an emphasis on the main outcome of pain intensity, measured by the Visual Analog Scale (VAS). Secondary outcomes included functional and quality-of-life measures. The meta-analysis employed a random-effects model to account for variability among studies. Heterogeneity was assessed using the I2 statistic, and publication bias was evaluated with funnel plots and Egger’s test. Results: Ten studies (totaling ~500 participants) met the inclusion criteria. The pooled mean difference in pain reduction was 1.95 units (95% CI: 1.5 - 2.4) on the VAS. Anodal stimulation over the motor cortex (M1) was most effective. Subgroup analysis showed lower heterogeneity for M1 stimulation (I2 = 30%) compared to dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) (I2 = 75%). Combination therapies (e.g., tDCS + physiotherapy) were associated with greater functional improvements. Conclusions: The tDCS appears to be an effective and safe intervention for reducing pain and enhancing functional outcomes in CLBP patients, particularly when targeting the M1. Further large-scale studies using standardized protocols are recommended.
Background: Risky behaviors such as smoking, alcohol consumption, and substance use are increasingly observed among Iranian youth. These behaviors pose serious health and social risks. Understanding their prevalence is crucial for effective prevention and intervention strategies. Objectives: This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of cigarette, hookah, and alcohol consumption among individuals aged 18 - 40 years in Shahrekord, Iran, using the indirect network scale-up method (NSUM). Methods: A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted in 2023 on 700 individuals (350 males and 350 females) aged 18 - 40 years, selected via two-stage random sampling from the SIB system of Shahrekord Health Center. The NSUM was used to estimate high-risk behaviors, and social network size was estimated using both ratio and regression-based approaches. Results: The participants were 700, including 350 (50%) men and 350 (50%) women, with an age range of 18 - 40 years and a mean and standard deviation of 30.14 ± 6.32. The social network size was estimated to be 117 (111.39 - 123.99). Using NSUM, the estimated prevalence (95% CI) of hookah, cigarette, and alcohol consumption among the target population was 22% (21.67 - 22.35), 18.87% (18.56 - 20.20), and 9.52% (9.28 - 9.76), respectively. Conclusions: Findings indicate that the active social network size of individuals aged 18 - 40 in Shahrekord is somewhat lower than the national average. Moreover, the prevalence of hookah, cigarette, and alcohol use is notably high, underscoring the need for targeted health interventions to prevent substance abuse in this age group.
Background: Disruption of normal ovulation and hormonal imbalances, especially androgens, can lead to infertility in women. This condition can lead to irregular menstrual cycles and other symptoms that characterize polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Rosemary is a member of the Lamiaceae family and has potential medicinal properties that may offer benefits in managing conditions like PCOS. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the effects of Rosemary hydroalcoholic extract on some attributes caused by letrozole on PCOS in female mice. Methods: The PCOS was induced by 1 mg/kg of letrozole and then mice received Rosemary (50, 100, and 200 mg/kg) for 30 days. Estrogen level, CYP19A1 gene expression, morphometric indices, and total triglyceride (TG) concentration were measured at the end of the intervention. Results: Comparison let+Ros 200 mg/kg and letrozole groups showed a significant difference in increasing the estrous phase and CYP19A1 gene expression, decreasing the levels of TG and estrogen hormones, as well as increasing the number of growing follicles (P < 0.01). Conclusions: Considering that anovulation increases the risk of genital cancer and infertility, we suggest that the compounds in Rosemary may act as a therapeutic agent for PCOS.
Background: Early undifferentiated arthritis (UA) is an inflammatory joint disorder lasting under three months that does not meet criteria for specific rheumatic diseases. Some cases resolve spontaneously, while others progress to rheumatoid arthritis (RA) or related conditions. Early treatment may improve prognosis, but optimal therapy is uncertain. Methotrexate (MTX) is often first-line; however, sulfasalazine and hydroxychloroquine are alternatives when contraindications exist. Concerns about combination therapy toxicity and lack of direct comparisons prompted this study. Objectives: The present study aimed to compare the clinical efficacy of sulfasalazine and hydroxychloroquine in patients with early UA. Methods: This retrospective study evaluated 70 patients presenting with pain, swelling, or limited movement in one or both knees at Shahid Sadoughi Hospital. Patients were assigned to either sulfasalazine 1000 mg/day (n = 35) or hydroxychloroquine 400 mg/day (n = 35) for 12 weeks. Outcomes included pain scores, knee swelling, and range of joint motion. Complete clinical response rates were also assessed. Results: The groups were similar in age and gender (P > 0.05). Baseline pain scores were 6.08 ± 1.14 (hydroxychloroquine) and 6.80 ± 1.30 (sulfasalazine). After treatment, pain decreased to 3.02 ± 1.97 and 1.77 ± 1.91, respectively (P < 0.05 for both), with greater reduction in the sulfasalazine group. No significant between-group differences were found in swelling or range of motion (P > 0.05). Complete clinical response occurred in 14.2% (hydroxychloroquine) versus 37.1% (sulfasalazine) (P < 0.05). Conclusions: Both treatments significantly reduced pain in early UA, but sulfasalazine provided greater pain relief and higher rates of complete clinical response, suggesting it may be more effective for this patient population in the short-term.
Background and Objectives: The present study aimed to assess frequency of carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) in patients of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at Bahawal Victoria Hospital Pakistan, from January to June 2024. A total of 210 patients with T2DM were included based on specific diagnostic criteria, including HbA1c > 7.0% or random blood glucose levels ≥ 200 mg/dL. The CTS was diagnosed clinically through symptoms such as numbness and pain in the hand, positive Phalen’s and Tinel’s signs, confirmed by nerve conduction studies. Exclusion criteria included patients with chronic kidney disease, coronary artery disease, or other significant health issues. Results: The mean age of participants was 54.7 ± 14.5 years, with a female preponderance (53.8%). Mean duration of diabetes was 6.7 ± 5.7 years, and 71.0% of patients had poor diabetes control (mean HbA1c 10.1 ± 2.4%). The CTS was found in 4.8% (10 patients), with 60.0% having bilateral involvement. The CTS was relatively uncommon in this study population. No significant associations were found between CTS and gender (P = 0.347), age (P = 0.804), duration of diabetes (P = 1.000), or diabetes control (P = 0.727). Conclusions: The CTS was relatively uncommon in our study having no statistical association with patient factors like gender, age, duration of diabetes and diabetes control suggesting that other variables might influence its prevalence in this population. Exploring the possibility of other risk factors or conducting further studies to investigate different demographics or environmental influences could be beneficial.
Context: Tonsils play an important role in the body's immune system. However, in the case of chronic infection, tonsillectomy is necessary. Objectives: Tonsillectomy causes complications such as bleeding after surgery, and the present study was conducted to systematically investigate the prevalence of bleeding and methods for its control. Methods: This study is a systematic review that was conducted during the years 2019 - 2024. Data were collected from the databases Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science, Google Scholar, Magiran, SID, and Irandoc. The search was conducted using the keywords prevalence, incidence, tonsillectomy, and bleeding, along with the operators "AND", "OR". In the next step, articles related to factors of bleeding after tonsillectomy were searched using the keywords tonsillectomy, bleeding, and risk factor with the operators "AND", "OR". The quality of selected articles with English abstracts was assessed using the STROBE tool. Results: Based on the initial search, 1680 studies were found, of which 29 studies were selected based on the criteria for the present study. The prevalence of post-tonsillectomy bleeding in these studies ranged from 1.3% to 83.3%. In the second search for factors associated with the control of post-tonsillectomy bleeding, of the 3541 articles found, 35 articles were identified as eligible for inclusion. The prevalence of post-tonsillectomy bleeding was 7.0% for those > 21 years using Daflon 500 mg tablets and 13.3% for those using the hospital protocol. In children < 19 years, the prevalence of post-tonsillectomy bleeding was reported to be 1.4% in ketorolac users and 1.7% in non-users. Conclusions: Pillar suturing technique, epinephrine and lidocaine injection, hydrogen peroxide, Daflon, and adrenaline injection with tramadol can reduce post-tonsillectomy bleeding, while ketorolac was not effective. Therefore, it is suggested that ENT surgeons should consider these methods to control or reduce post-tonsillectomy bleeding.
Background: Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is characterized by intermittent hypoxia (IH), which induces systemic oxidative stress and inflammation. The mitochondrial antioxidant enzyme superoxide dismutase 2 (SOD2) is the primary defense against superoxide radicals generated during IH. A common functional polymorphism in the SOD2 gene (rs4880, Val16Ala) impacts the mitochondrial import and efficacy of the enzyme. Objectives: We hypothesized that the valine (Val) allele, associated with reduced antioxidant capacity, exacerbates OSA severity. Methods: A case-control study was conducted with 187 participants stratified into four groups: Controls (n = 41), mild OSA (n = 55), moderate OSA (n = 48), and severe OSA (n = 43). Genotyping for the SOD2 rs4880 variant was performed. Allelic and genotypic frequencies were calculated and compared across groups, assuming Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. The primary outcome was the association between the Val allele and OSA severity. Results: The frequency of the SOD2 Val allele was significantly higher in the severe OSA group (0.65) compared to all other groups (0.49; P < 0.01), and the genotypic distribution differed significantly across severity groups (P = 0.002). In a multivariate ordinal logistic regression analysis using a dominant genetic model, carriage of at least one Val allele (i.e., Val/Val + Val/alanine (Ala) genotypes) was an independent predictor of increased OSA severity [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 2.40, 95% CI: 1.25 - 4.62, P = 0.008], after adjusting for Body Mass Index (BMI), neck circumference, and gender. Conclusions: The SOD2 Val16Ala polymorphism is a significant and independent modifier of OSA severity. The Val allele is associated with an increased risk of severe disease, likely due to inadequate mitigation of mitochondrial oxidative stress during apneic events.
Background: Low birth weight (LBW, < 2.5 kg) is an important indicator of health and a serious public health concern in low- and middle-income countries. Objectives: The present study aimed to determine the prevalence of LBW and to identify its associated factors in Khash city, Iran. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted, using a census method, on 590 mothers who gave birth in the public hospitals in Khash city, Sistan and Baluchestan, Iran from January 01 to December 30, 2023. Sociodemographic characteristics of mothers delivered and characteristics related to newborn was collected by a self-administered questionnaire. The data were analyzed in SPSS software, version 22. Adjusted odds ratio (AOR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) was used to declare significant factors associated with LBW at birth. Results: Prevalence of LBW was 13.7% (95% CI: 11 - 16.7). Significant associations were observed between LBW and mother’s occupational status, gestational age, type of pregnancy and height of neonate (P < 0.05). Also, gestational age less than 37 weeks and baby's height of less than 50 cm increase the risk of LBW by 4.4 times (95% CI = 2.5 - 7.9) and 41.2 times (95% CI = 3.6 - 469.4), respectively. Conclusions: In the study area, there was a high prevalence of LBW. Effective nutritional counseling and the incorporation of dietary strategies, along with the implementation of proven methods to prevent preterm births, could help reduce instances of LBW and subsequently improve survival rates among infants.
Background and Objectives: The aim of study was to evaluate laboratory parameters and comorbidities in patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and to investigate their prognostic value in hospitalized patients. Methods: This retro/spective study analyzed data from 400 COVID-19 patients admitted to Golestan Hospital, Kermanshah, Iran (2020). Laboratory parameters in patients including CBC diff PLT, ESR, LDH, PT, PTT, INR, fibrinogen, CRP, and D-dimer, O2-saturation and lung CT scan were examined. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS v.25. Results: In the evaluation of 400 patients, 52 patients were clinically unstable and 348 patients were in stable condition. Significant gender differences were observed in Hb, PLT, ESR, and coagulation profiles (P < 0.05). D-dimer-negative patients had higher saturation levels (P = 0.009) Patients with positive D-dimer had unstable conditions in terms of oxygenation Inverse correlations were found between oxygen saturation and WBC, LDH, PT, PTT, and INR (P < 0.05). The relationship of each of the diseases associated with COVID-19 with mortality rate, clinical condition of the patient and O2-saturation in pulse oximetry was investigated. The most important diseases that, if associated with COVID-19, could make the patient's clinical condition more unstable was HTN and CVA. Conclusions: These findings suggest that routine hematological and coagulation tests can aid in early risk stratification of COVID-19 patients, particularly in resource-limited settings where advanced imaging is unavailable. We suggest that during infectious epidemics such as COVID-19, people with underlying diseases such as HTN, DM, and CVA should be under active surveillance.
Background: Non-specific chronic low back pain (NSCLBP) is highly prevalent and often linked with lumbar hyperlordosis and anterior pelvic tilt (APT). Conventional treatments provide limited long-term benefit, and dynamic neuromuscular stabilization (DNS) has emerged as a potential alternative. Objectives: The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of DNS exercises on lumbar curvature, pelvic alignment, and pain intensity in women with hyperlordosis and NSCLBP. Methods: Thirty women aged 30 - 50 years with NSCLBP and lumbar hyperlordosis were allocated to an experimental group (n = 15) receiving a six-week DNS program (three sessions/week) or a control group (n = 15) performing daily activities only. Lumbar lordosis angle was measured with a flexible ruler, APT with a digital inclinometer, and pain with a Visual Analog Scale (VAS). Outcomes were assessed pre- and post-intervention. Data were analyzed using paired t-tests and ANCOVA (α = 0.05). Results: Participants in the DNS group showed significant improvements compared to controls. The lumbar lordosis angle decreased by an average of 3.67° (from 59.00 ± 2.72 to 55.33 ± 2.82; P = 0.002; Cohen’s d = 1.33), APT decreased by 3.04° (from 13.54 ± 1.97 to 10.50 ± 2.75; P = 0.003; d = 1.27), and pain intensity reduced by 2.73 points on the VAS (from 6.93 ± 2.21 to 4.20 ± 2.93; P = 0.032; d = 1.05). The ANCOVA confirmed significant between-group differences for all outcomes: lordosis (P = 0.004, η2 = 0.272), pelvic tilt (P = 0.012, η2 = 0.210), and pain (P = 0.038, η2 = 0.150). Conclusions: The DNS exercises were associated with reductions in lumbar hyperlordosis, APT, and pain intensity in women with NSCLBP. While findings suggest DNS may be a promising non-invasive approach for postural correction and pain relief, conclusions should be interpreted cautiously due to the small sample size, single-gender sample, and quasi-experimental design. Further randomized controlled trials with larger and more diverse populations are warranted.
Background: Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is the most common cause of periodic vertigo in patients, characterized by short-term attacks that are exacerbated by changes in head position. Deficiency or imbalance in serum levels of calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin D may compromise the health of inner ear structures and neuromuscular functions related to balance. Objectives: The present study aimed to investigate the association between serum levels of vitamin D, calcium, and phosphorus and BPPV. Methods: A case-control study was conducted, using a census method, on 56 patients with BPPV who referred to the ENT Clinic of Imam Khomeini Hospital, Kermanshah, Iran during 2019 - 2020. Subjects were randomly divided into two groups: Case and control. The measurement tool was a researcher-made checklist. The Dys-Hallpike maneuver was used to diagnose vertigo, and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), Colorimetric Assays, and AAS were used to measure serum phosphorus, calcium, and vitamin D levels. Statistical analysis was performed with SPSS version 25. Results: Fifty-six people were examined. Twenty-eight of these people were in the case group and 28 were in the control group, whose average age was 44.1 ± 15.8 years and 44.2 ± 15.7 years, respectively. Serum vitamin D levels were significantly lower in the case group (27.55 ± 15.36) compared to the control group (39.63 ± 15.83, P = 0.005). No significant differences were observed in serum phosphorus or calcium levels between the groups (P > 0.005). Conclusions: Vitamin D deficiency exacerbates BPPV, especially in women during menopause. Health care providers should prioritize programs to improve vitamin D levels, especially in high-risk groups.
