Introduction: Smoking is one of the most important modifiable risk factors for cardiovascular diseases, and quitting is a complex and multidimensional process. Therefore, the present study aimed to identify the challenges faced by cardiovascular patients in the process of quitting smoking at Tohid Hospital, Sanandaj, in 2025. Materials & Methods: This descriptive-analytical study was conducted on 317 cardiovascular patients using a simple random method. Inclusion criteria included age over 18 years and a history of at least one unsuccessful smoking cessation experience in the last 6 months, and the exclusion criterion was incomplete completion of the questionnaires. Data were collected using a demographic information form and a 15-item Smoking Cessation Challenges (CSS) questionnaire in two internal and external dimensions. Analysis was performed with linear regression tests and nonparametric tests in SPSS V.16. Results: The mean total score of smoking cessation challenges was estimated to be 24.38±7.63. Dimensional analysis showed that the severity of internal challenges (23.37±4.71) was significantly higher than external challenges (14.86±6.05). The results of the multiple regression model showed that occupation, lack of regular exercise, longer duration of smoking, more frequent attempts to quit, and history of concurrent alcohol use were significant predictors of increased smoking cessation challenges (p<0.05). Also, increasing age was significantly associated with increased internal challenges, and a low income level was significantly associated with increased external challenges. Conclusion: Internal challenges (personal and psychological) are the main obstacles for heart patients in the smoking cessation process, and factors such as advanced age, concurrent alcohol use, and heart failure exacerbate these challenges. Therefore, focusing solely on awareness is not enough, and it is necessary to shift treatment programs from recommendation-based approaches to comprehensive and individual-centered interventions, including management of withdrawal symptoms, promotion of self-efficacy, and specialized psychological support, in order to increase the success rate of sustainable cessation in these patients.
Introduction: Carvacrol is an important medicinal compound from the marjoram plant, whose antimicrobial properties on pathogenic and toxin-producing fungi have received little attention so far. Access to medicinal plants with nanocomposites provides the possibility of improving the properties and increasing the efficiency of medicinal plants in preventing the production of fungal toxins such as aflatoxin, given the limited availability of antifungal drugs and their resistance in the food and pharmaceutical industries. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of the antifungal properties of carvacrol and nanocarvacrol on the expression of aflatoxin biosynthesis genes, aflS, aflQ, aflD, and aflR, of Aspergillus parasiticus using RT-qPCR. Materials & Methods: The standard strain of toxin-producing Aspergillus parasiticus (PTCC 5018) was used. SDA (Saboro Dextrose Agar) medium was used to evaluate the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC). PDB (Potato Dextrose Agar) medium was used to perform HPLC and aflatoxin production. Dynamic light scattering (DLS) and Zeta analysis were used to examine the size and shape of particles with a scanning electron microscope to confirm the carvacrol nanoemulsion. To measure the expression of aflR, aflS, aflQ, and aflD genes, RNA extraction was performed using the guanidine isothiocyanate method. For cDNA synthesis, primers for afl genes and the 18S rRNA internal control gene were designed, and after cDNA synthesis, the RNA of the samples was examined using the RT-qPCR technique. Results: In the presence of carvacrol and nanocarvacrol, the highest inhibition of fungal growth was observed at concentrations of 0.97 and 97 μg/μl, respectively. Using HPLC, a significant reduction in toxin production was determined by nanocarvacrol compared to carvacrol. The results of RT-qPCR also proved that nanocarvacrol inhibited aflatoxin-producing genes more than carvacrol at the molecular level. Conclusion: The results showed that nanocarvacrol can inhibit fungal growth more than carvacrol and significantly reduced the expression of genes involved in aflatoxin biosynthesis in Aspergillus parasiticus.
Introduction: Pregnancy is accompanied by physiological and psychological changes that can affect mothers’ quality of life and anxiety levels. Examining mediating factors such as childbirth self-efficacy and social support can help identify effective strategies to improve maternal mental health. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate the relationship between quality of life and pregnancy anxiety with the mediating role of childbirth self-efficacy and social support and to test the fit of a correlation model among these variables. Materials & Methods: This descriptive-correlational study was conducted on 200 pregnant women who were referred to Shohada-ye Gomnam Comprehensive Health Center, Shohada-ye Golzar Comprehensive Health Center, and Agh-Tappeh Comprehensive Health Center of Karaj in 2025. Participants were selected through convenience sampling and completed a demographic information form along with standardized questionnaires, including pregnancy anxiety, quality of life, childbirth self-efficacy, and perceived social support. Data were analyzed using Pearson correlation, structural equation modeling, and AMOS-24 software. Results: The results showed that there was a positive and significant relationship between quality of life, childbirth self-efficacy, and perceived social support. In contrast, pregnancy anxiety had a negative and significant relationship with these three variables. Quality of life directly reduced pregnancy anxiety (β=-0.542, p=0.001). Also, perceived social support (β=-0.226, p=0.010) and childbirth self-efficacy (β=-0.273, p=0.001) were also directly related to reducing pregnancy anxiety. In addition, quality of life also indirectly reduced pregnancy anxiety through increasing perceived social support (β=-0.136, p=0.001) and childbirth self-efficacy (β=-0.100, p=0.001). The proposed model also had a good fit. Conclusion: Based on these findings, it can be concluded that childbirth self-efficacy and perceived social support serve as effective mediators in the relationship between quality of life and pregnancy anxiety.
Introduction: Dental clinics, as public centers, must adhere to environmental health principles to reduce the risks of contamination and the spread of dangerous infectious diseases. Failure to follow these principles can endanger the health of dentists, patients, and staff. The present study was conducted with the aim of determining the state of environmental health status of dental clinics in Ilam City in the year 2024. Materials & Methods: In this descriptive cross-sectional study, 13 active dental clinic units in Ilam City were investigated using a census method. The required information was collected by reviewing existing documents in urban comprehensive health service centers and based on a health inspection checklist for dental offices with form code 920318/111 approved by the Ministry of Health. The collected data were analyzed using Excel software. Results: In the survey, the individual health indicators, health deficiencies were observed in the studied dental clinics, including the lack of use of clean, intact, light-colored lab uniforms and personal protective equipment in 46.38% of cases and improper disinfection of the suction unit and its components in 15.46% of clinics. In the tools and equipment section, proper disinfection and sterilization of the tools and equipment used showed non-compliance rates of 46.15% and 53.85%, respectively. In the building health and safety section, the condition of ventilation was adequate in 46.15% of cases, and fire extinguishers with valid charges complied with regulations in 53.85% of cases. Conclusion: In order to improve the health indicators of the dental clinics in this study and address health non-compliances, particularly in the areas of instrument and equipment hygiene and waste management, it is recommended to conduct training courses on the principles of disinfection and sterilization of instruments, ensure continuous supervision by environmental health experts, implement self-monitoring and self-reporting health processes, raise awareness about the use of standard personal protective equipment, and provide the necessary infrastructure to utilize the capabilities of private companies involved in the management and safe disposal of infectious waste generated in the dental clinics under study.
We are very happy to offer this special English-language issue of the Ilam University of Medical Sciences Journal. This project is a smart way to get our publication more attention and reach more people in the global scientific community. We have always published in Persian, but we know that it's important to reach more people and share knowledge across borders.
Introduction: The production of nanoparticles by biological methods is less hazardous than traditional chemical methods and is also cost-effective. The aim of this study was to synthesize copper nanoparticles using the aqueous extract of Oliveria decumbens flowers and to investigate their antibacterial properties. Materials & Methods: The soaking method was used for extraction. Nanoparticle synthesis was carried out by reducing copper sulfate with the aqueous extract of O. decumbens flowers. The resulting nanoparticles were characterized using spectrophotometric analysis, infrared spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy. The antibacterial effects of the extract and the synthesized nanoparticles on Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus, Escherichia coli, and Klebsiella pneumoniae were investigated using the disk method, and their minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) values were determined. Results: The aqueous extract of O. decumbens flowers was found to reduce copper sulfate. The produced nanoparticles were spherical, with an average size of 36.93 nm. Although the aqueous extract had no effect on the tested bacteria, the synthesized nanoparticles at concentrations of 2000 and 4000 μg/disk exhibited antibacterial activity against all these bacteria. The MIC and MBC values were determined to be 1000 μg/ml for S. aureus and B. cereus and 2000 μg/ml for K. pneumoniae and E. coli. Conclusion: The results showed that the aqueous extract of O. decumbens flowers acts as a reducing and stabilizing agent for copper sulfate. The synthesized copper nanoparticles exhibited acceptable antibacterial activity against the studied Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria.
Introduction: The complexity of chronic pain underscores the need to compare effective therapeutic approaches for pain reduction and enhancement of cognitive processes, particularly psychological interventions that can play a key role in managing this condition. The present study aimed to compare the efficacy of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) on cognitive flexibility and pain reduction in patients with chronic pain. Materials & Methods: This quasi-experimental study employed a pretest–posttest–two-month follow-up design with a control group. The target population included patients with chronic pain (chronic low back pain, fibromyalgia, rheumatoid arthritis, migraine, and irritable bowel syndrome) who referred to educational, therapeutic, and research centers in Kermanshah, including Taleghani, Imam Reza, and Farabi hospitals in 2023. A total of 69 participants were selected using convenience sampling, which limits the generalizability of the findings. Participants were randomly assigned to two intervention groups and a control group (23 participants per group) using a random number table. The ACT group received eight sessions, the CBT group received eight sessions, and the control group received no intervention. Data were collected using the Cognitive Flexibility Inventory and the Von Korff Pain Severity Scale. Statistical analyses were performed using repeated-measures ANOVA and Bonferroni post hoc tests. The significance level was set at p < 0.05. Results: The findings indicated that both ACT and CBT interventions significantly increased cognitive flexibility (p < 0.001). Additionally, pain severity significantly decreased in the intervention groups compared to the control group (p < 0.001). The test power was reported as 1, indicating high reliability of the findings. Furthermore, a statistically significant difference was observed between the two interventions, with ACT showing greater effectiveness in enhancing cognitive flexibility and reducing pain severity (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Based on the present findings, ACT can be considered an effective psychological intervention in chronic pain clinics, contributing to improved cognitive functioning and pain management in patients.
Introduction: Early detection of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) is a significant challenge in the medical field. As one of the leading causes of mortality worldwide, CVDs require timely and accurate diagnosis for effective prevention. Delayed diagnoses often result from limitations in traditional methods and the insufficient identification of risk factors. This study aimed to enhance the accuracy of heart disease prediction using machine learning techniques. Materials & Methods: This research assessed the detection rate and accuracy of cardiovascular disease prediction using machine learning algorithms, including logistic regression, the C5.0 decision tree, neural networks, and mixed models. Data from the Cleveland Clinic dataset, comprising 303 samples and 13 clinical features, were analyzed. Performance metrics such as accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity were used to evaluate the models. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS Modeler 18 software. Results: The evaluated models demonstrated varying accuracies ranging from 85% to 93%. The hybrid model achieved the best performance with an accuracy of 93.44%. Additionally, ST slope, chest pain type, and fasting blood sugar were identified as the most significant risk factors for cardiovascular diseases. Conclusion: Machine learning algorithms offer significant potential for the early detection of cardiovascular diseases, thereby reducing mortality rates. These techniques enable precise analysis of clinical data, improve medical decision-making, and enhance treatment outcomes.
Introduction: Neonatal jaundice is one of the most common conditions in the neonatal period and is primarily caused by elevated levels of unconjugated bilirubin. Although usually benign, prolonged unconjugated hyperbilirubinemia may increase parental anxiety, healthcare costs, and the risk of neurotoxic complications, highlighting the need for effective and safe therapeutic interventions. This study aimed to evaluate the therapeutic effect of clofibrate on prolonged unconjugated jaundice in term neonates. Materials & Methods: This randomized clinical trial was conducted on 152 term neonates diagnosed with prolonged unconjugated hyperbilirubinemia who were referred to the pediatric outpatient clinic of Imam Khomeini Hospital, Ilam, Iran, between October 2024 and September 2025. Participants were randomly assigned to intervention and control groups. The intervention group received a single oral dose of clofibrate (50 mg/kg) in addition to standard care, while the control group received standard treatment alone. Total serum bilirubin levels were measured on days 1, 3, and 7. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 27. Independent t-test and repeated measures analysis of variance were applied, and a p-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The mean serum bilirubin level on day 1 was 11.4 ±2.1 mg/dL in the intervention group and 13.6 ±2.5 mg/dL in the control group. Following treatment, mean bilirubin levels decreased to 7.5 ±1.8 mg/dL and 10.7 ±2.1 mg/dL on day 3, and to 4.0 ±1.6 mg/dL and 9.0 ±1.8 mg/dL on day 7 in the intervention and control groups, respectively. The reduction in serum bilirubin levels was significantly greater in the clofibrate group compared with the control group (p < 0.001). No adverse effects were observed in either group. Conclusion: A single oral dose of clofibrate at 50 mg/kg appears to be a safe and effective adjunctive therapy for reducing serum bilirubin levels and accelerating recovery in term neonates with prolonged unconjugated jaundice.
Introduction: Tracheostomy patients face numerous challenges in terms of quality of life after discharge from the intensive care unit. In the main case, providing home care services is to maintain and restore the patient's independence so that the client is able to meet his health needs outside of medical centers and at home using his own abilities and with the help of health professionals. Therefore, this study was conducted to investigate the effect of home care based on the continuous care model on the quality of life for these patients. Materials & Methods: This quasi-experimental study was conducted with the participation of 62 tracheostomy patients discharged from the intensive care units. Patients were randomly divided into two intervention and control groups. The intervention group received home care based on the follow-up care model. The control group also received the usual education and care, either verbally or in the form of an educational pamphlet, from the researcher. Data collection was done using the Quality-of-Life Questionnaire (SF36). Data were analyzed using SPSS V.22 at both descriptive and inferential levels. Results: Home care based on the continuous care model significantly improved the patients' quality of life in physical and psychological dimensions, pain, social functioning, and emotional limitation (p<0.01), and no significant change was observed in the control group. Conclusion: Home care based on the continuous care model can be used as an effective and low-cost method to improve the quality of life of tracheostomy patients discharged from the intensive care unit.
Introduction: Anterior cruciate ligament rupture (ACL) is among the most common sports-related injuries. This study examined how an acute fatigue protocol alters ankle and knee-muscle co-contraction during gait in individuals with unilateral Anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction who also present with a pronated foot. Materials & Methods: The research was a quasi-experimental and laboratory study. The subjects were 15 men with ACLR and pronated feet and 15 healthy men. Surface electromyography of selected lower-limb muscles was recorded while participants walked on a treadmill. After completing a standardised fatigue protocol, EMG was collected again during running. A two-way repeated-measures ANOVA (group × time) was performed in SPSS V 26 at p less than 0.05. Results: A significant main effect of time was found for overall ankle co-contraction during the loading-response (P = 0.003, d = 0.329), mid-stance (P = 0.023, d = 0.212), and propulsion phases (P < 0.001, d = 0.865) of gait. A significant main effect of group was observed for overall knee co-contraction in the loading-response (P < 0.001, d = 0.377) and mid-stance phases (P = 0.044, d = 0.172). Group differences were also significant for directional knee co-contraction in mid-stance (P = 0.022, d = 0.215) and for directional ankle co-contraction in loading-response (P = 0.013, d = 0.251). Conclusion: Individuals with ACLR and a pronated foot exhibit a lower co-contraction level at the knee and ankle compared with healthy controls, and fatigue further amplifies this reduction. Diminished co-contraction may compromise joint stability, alter gait mechanics, and increase injury risk in this population.
Introduction: Brain tumors are caused by abnormal cell proliferation and can lead to neurological disorders by affecting the structure and function of the brain. Therefore, their accurate and timely diagnosis plays a significant role in reducing clinical risks for patients. Magnetic resonance imaging, as a non-invasive and highly accurate method, is widely used in identifying tumor areas in the diagnosis and treatment planning process. Materials & Methods: This study is a qualitative systematic review based on the PRISMA guideline, which was conducted by comprehensively searching the Web of Science, Google Scholar, Springer, Scopus, IEEE Xplore, and Elsevier scientific databases. Studies related to convolutional neural networks (CNN) for brain tumor segmentation in Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) images, focusing on advanced architectures including U-Net, nnU-Net, V-Net, DeepMedic, and DeepLabV3+, were selected based on specific inclusion and exclusion criteria and subjected to qualitative and comparative analysis. Results: The results of the reviewed articles showed that the DeepLabV3+ model had the highest accuracy with an average Dice score of 0.917 and the other models U-Net, nnU-Net, V-Net, and DeepMedic had average Dice scores of 0.827, 0.793, 0.819, and 0.752, respectively. All of these models performed better than manual or traditional methods in different data conditions such as 2D, 3D, and unbalanced data. However, the reported performance for each model is affected by several factors, including the quality and volume of training data, data augmentation strategies, the loss function used, and post-processing steps. Conclusion: This study shows that novel image analysis methods significantly improve the accuracy of diagnostic assistance systems in brain imaging by automatically extracting diagnostic features. However, the performance of the models is the result of a combination of the main architecture and complementary techniques, and their evaluation should be performed within the overall framework of the analysis pipeline (from preprocessing to post-processing). Developing models with high generalizability in diverse data conditions is the main path of progress in this field. Given the time-consuming and complex nature of manual interpretation of MRI images, deep learning-based systems can help reduce human errors and facilitate clinical decision-making. Consequently, optimization and development of these models is an important step towards improving the diagnosis and management of patients with brain tumors.
Introduction: Quality of life is a multidimensional and dynamic concept encompassing the physical, psychological, functional, and social dimensions of an individual, and it plays a key role in overall health. Optimal posture is one of the influential factors in enhancing quality of life. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of eight weeks of Janda and Sahrmann corrective exercises on improving dynamic balance and quality of life in students with hyperkyphosis. Materials & Methods: In a semi-experimental randomized study, 30 male students with an average age of 14 years were randomly assigned into two groups of 15 (Janda exercises and Sahrmann exercises). Both groups performed corrective exercises for eight weeks (three one-hour sessions per week). In the pre-test and post-test stages, dynamic balance was assessed using the Y-Balance Test, and quality of life was evaluated using the localized WHOQOL-BREF questionnaire. Data were analyzed using paired and independent t-tests. Results: The main results showed that both Janda and Sahrmann approaches significantly improved dynamic balance in all anterior and posterior directions as well as quality of life components including physical health, psychological well-being and overall quality of life in students (P<0.001). However, between-group analysis showed that Janda method had a greater effect than Sahrmann in improving dynamic balance in all three directions evaluated (P<0.001) and also showed significant superiority in physical health, social relationships and overall quality of life (P<0.003). Conclusion: Janda exercises produced greater improvements in dynamic balance and quality of life than Sahrmann exercises; therefore, the use of the Janda method to correct postural abnormalities is recommended to therapists and exercise specialists.
Introduction: The objective of this systematic review was to investigate the effects of an association between resistance training and Spirulina supplementation on metabolic and inflammatory profile in older individuals. Materials & Methods: This study is based on searching the databases of PubMed, Scopus, and Google scholar. The eligible criteria were RCT studies, which assessed the effects of resistance training and Spirulina in combination on glycemia, lipid profiles, blood pressure (BP) and inflammatory factors in older subjects. Results: The outcomes revealed that Spirulina with resistance training resulted in significant decrease of fasting blood glucose, HbA1c, lipid profile (LDL and Triglyceride) and inflammatory markers (CRP and IL-6). Moreover, this intervention also conferred benefits in terms of reducing blood pressure and enhancing quality of life in older adults. Such effects may be attributed to the regulation of biological pathways, such as increased insulin sensitivity, decline in oxidative stress and attenuation of inflammatory responses by both Spirulina supplementation and resistance training. Conclusion: Resistance training combined with Spirulina supplementation appears to be an effective non-pharmacological intervention in promoting metabolic health and ameliorating inflammation in older adults. Further studies with larger sample sizes and long-term follow-up would be needed to assess the sustainability of these effects.
Introduction: Obesity is associated with an increase in adipose tissue, which secretes adipokines that can directly and indirectly contribute to insulin resistance and various diseases. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effects of 12 weeks of interval resistance training combined with the Algomed supplement on irisin and lipocalin-2 in obese men. Materials & Methods: Forty-four obese men were divided into four groups of 11: placebo-control, training-placebo, supplement, and training-supplement groups. The participants in the exercise groups performed 12 weeks of interval resistance training three times per week. Additionally, participants in the supplement group consumed 1800 mg of Algomed algae, according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Blood samples were taken 48 hours before the start of the study and 48 hours after the last training session, and the variables of interest were measured in SPSS V.22 with a significance of less than 0.05. Results: The results of the study showed significant differences between the groups in terms of the adipokine irisin and the reduction of lipocalin-2 compared to the control group (P<0.05). Bonferroni post-hoc analysis revealed that training and training-supplement led to increased irisin and decreased lipocalin-2 compared to the control group (P<0.05). Conclusion: The present study concluded that intermittent resistance training, both alone and combined with the Algomed supplement, led to a reduction in lipocalin-2 levels and an increase in irisin in obese men. Moreover, the combination of Algomed supplementation with intermittent resistance training had a greater effect on the measured variables compared to the supplement or exercise alone.
Introduction: Childhood obesity is associated with increased inflammation and metabolic disorders, such as elevated tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) levels and adverse changes in the lipid profile. Aerobic exercise, as a non-pharmacological intervention, may help improve these indicators. This meta-analysis was conducted to examine the effects of aerobic exercise on the lipid profile and TNF-α levels in overweight and obese children and adolescents. Materials & Methods: A comprehensive search of databases such as PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Magiran, Noor Mags, Google Scholar, and SID was conducted to review all articles published from inception to June 29, 2025. In this systematic review, types of aerobic exercise such as running, cycling, treadmill, and group exercise were examined. To understand the effect of aerobic exercise on blood lipids (such as HDL, LDL, total cholesterol, and triglycerides) and TNF-α levels, data on children and adolescents aged 6 to 18 years who were overweight or obese were analyzed with CMA version 2 software, and weight mean difference (WMD) and 95% confidence intervals were calculated. Results: The meta-analysis comprised 25 studies, including 29 aerobic exercise interventions, with a total of 840 overweight and obese children and adolescents (both genders). The findings indicated that aerobic exercise was correlated with a notable increase in HDL (P = 0.026, WMD = 2.740 mg/dl, 95% CI: 0.323 to 5.158) and substantial decreases in TNF-α (P = 0.005, WMD = -0.495 pg/ml, 95% CI: -0.840 to -0.150), LDL (P = 0.001, WMD = -8.795 mg/dl, 95% CI: -12.871 to -4.718), TC (P = 0.002, WMD = -11.287 mg/dl, 95% CI: -17.599 to -4.976), and TG (P = 0.001, WMD = -23.72 mg/dl, 95% CI: -34.419 to -13.030) in comparison to the control groups. Conclusion: Aerobic exercise improves blood lipids and reduces TNF-α levels in overweight or obese children and adolescents. This effect has been seen most in programs that last about 4 to 20 weeks and are performed two to four times a week at moderate to vigorous intensity. In short, aerobic exercise is a simple and safe way to improve health and metabolism in this age group.
Introduction: Brucellosis is one of the most important zoonotic diseases in Iran and the world. The aim of this study was to determine the predominant species of human and animal brucellosis in Holeylan County, one of the endemic areas of the disease in Ilam Province. Materials & Methods: In this cross-sectional study from April to September 2024, a total of 1000 samples of raw and unpasteurized bulk milk from 50 cows, 500 sheep, and 450 goats were collected from traditional domestic farming in Piaz Abad village, Holeylan county. In this research, 10 blood samples from suspected cattle, 63 blood samples from suspected sheep, 43 blood samples from suspected goats, and 23 blood samples from humans were collected. Samples were screened by slide agglutination and ring tests. The seropositive samples were examined by a collection of specific primers for Brucella abortus and Brucella melitensis using PCR tests in SPSS V.22 at a significant level of 0.01. Results: Results showed that 140 sheep, 60 goats, and 1 cattle sample were positive in the milk ring test. A total of 23 sheep samples, 10 goats, and 8 humans were positive in the slide agglutination test. No positive samples were found in the cattle. A similar band of 905 bp was observed for all samples. 7 sheep samples (30.43%), 2 goats (20%), and 1 human (12.5%) were positive in PCR. In sequencing, the dominant animal species was Brucella melitensis. Conclusion: The dominant animal species in endemic areas of Ilam province was Brucella melitensis. This study has health and environmental significance because the disease has an animal origin and contaminates the environment around humans.
Introduction: Obesity is recognized as one of the leading causes of mortality in developing countries and is closely associated with an increased risk of chronic diseases. In recent years, high-intensity exercise interventions and natural supplements have gained attention as effective strategies for managing obesity-related complications. This study aimed to investigate the effects of a 12-week high-intensity interval training (HIIT) program combined with spirulina supplementation on serum levels of decorin and myostatin in obese men. Materials & Methods: Forty-four obese men (BMI: 33 ± 1 kg/m²; body weight: 101 ± 2 kg) were randomly assigned into four groups (n=11 per group): Control-placebo (C), HIIT-placebo (H), Supplement (S) and HIIT plus supplement (HS). Participants in the H and HS groups performed HIIT sessions three times per week for 12 weeks. Those in the S and HS groups received 6 grams of spirulina daily (3 grams in the morning and 3 grams in the evening) throughout the intervention. Blood samples were collected 48 hours before the start and 48 hours after the final training session. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 22, with a significance level set at p<0.05. Results: Significant differences were observed between the groups regarding changes in decorin and myostatin levels (p<0.05). Post-hoc analysis indicated that both the H and HS groups experienced a significant decrease in myostatin levels (p<0.001) and a significant increase in decorin levels (p<0.001) compared to the control group. Conclusion: The findings suggest that both HIIT and spirulina supplementation independently lead to favorable changes in myostatin and decorin levels in obese men. Furthermore, the combined intervention produced more pronounced improvements, highlighting the potential synergistic effect of exercise and spirulina in obesity management.
Introduction: Although sexual contact has been definitively proven to be the main route of human papillomavirus transmission, many questions remain about nonsexual transmission of papillomavirus. Materials & Methods: This study was a narrative review aimed at investigating the transmission routes of human papillomavirus (HPV). A PubMed, Google Scholar, and Web of Science databases search was conducted to identify relevant studies up to March 2025. Results: The high persistence of the virus in the environment and its resistance to common disinfectants increase the risk of transmission through nonsexual routes. In addition, scientific evidence that HPV DNA has been detected in the blood of healthy donors has raised concerns about the transmission of papillomavirus through blood and blood products. Conclusion: These findings present new challenges for the study and prevention of human papillomavirus transmission. This article provides a comprehensive analysis of the definitive and probable routes of papillomavirus transmission based on available scientific evidence.
Introduction: Self-efficacy is an important concept in the management of chronic diseases. This study was conducted for the first time to study of self-efficacy dimensions of multiple sclerosis patients in Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari province, 2024. Materials & Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in 2024. The target population was multiple sclerosis (MS) patients in the province who had a file with the MS Diagnosis Commission of Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences. Patients over 20 years of age who had been diagnosed with the disease for at least one year were included in the study, 175 people were randomly selected to complete the questionnaire. The 11-question self-efficacy questionnaire was specific to MS patients in three dimensions; independence-activity, personal control, concerns-interests with scores ranging from zero to 100. The results were statistically analyzed using SPSS V.21 less than 0.05 significance. Results: The mean and standard deviation of the scores in the dimensions of independence-activity were 52.71±13.17, personal control was 54.74±16.35, concerns-interests were 42.00±17.52, and the total score of self-efficacy was 49.81±6.93, which was in the moderate range. There was a significant relationship between family history of the disease and the two dimensions of personal control and concerns-interests, and in the group with family history, the mean score of the personal control dimension was significantly lower and the concern-interests dimension was higher. Place of residence had a significant relationship with the two dimensions of independence-activity and personal control, and in urban residents, the mean score of these two dimensions was significantly higher (p<0.05). Conclusion: Focusing on educational and psychological interventions to strengthen the self-efficacy of MS patients is important, especially in groups with a family history and residents of rural areas.
