Size-dependent molecular interaction of nontraditional 2D antibiotics withStaphylococcus aureus

The application of nanomaterials for their antibacterial properties is the subject of many studies due to antibiotic resistance of pathogen bacteria and the necessity of omitting them from food and water resources. Graphene oxide (GO) is one of the most popular candidates for antibacterial application. However, the optimum condition for such an effect is not yet clear for practical purposes. To shed light on how GO and bacteria interaction depends on size, a wide range of GO flake sizes from hundreds of µm²going down to nano-scale as low as 10 N m²was produced. In anin-vitrosystematic study to inhibitStaphylococcus aureusgrowth, the correlation between GO flake size, thickness, functional group density, and antibacterial activity was investigated. The GO suspension with the average size of 0.05 µm², in the order of the size of the bacteria itself, had the best bacteriostatic effect onS. aureuswith the minimum inhibitory concentration value of 8 μg ml^-1, well within the acceptable range for practical use. The bacteriostatic effect was measured to be a 76.2% reduction of the colony count over 2 h of incubation and the mechanism of action was the wrapping and isolation of cells from the growth environment. Furthermore,in-vivoanimal studies revealed that 16 μg ml^-1of the optimum GO has efficient antibacterial performance against the methicillin-resistant strains of the bacteria with an enhanced wound healing rate and tensiometrial parameters which is important for realized targets.

Comparison of Demographic and Clinicopathological Characteristics of Basal Cell Carcinoma on the Nose and Other Sites of the Face: A Cross-Sectional Study

Introduction:

The clinicopathological characteristics of basal cell carcinoma (BCC) in different areas of the face, including the nose, are important and may be different. Accurate recognition of these characteristics may be necessary for the planning and selection of appropriate treatment.

Materials and Methods:

This cross-sectional study was conducted on 328 patients (131 females and 197 males) with 371 documented facial BCC in the West of Iran within 2013-2018. The demographic and clinicopathological data of the patients in the nose area were compared with other sites of the face by appropriate statistical methods.

Results:

Out of 371 lesions, 38.8% of the cases were on the nose, 75.8% were primary lesions, 97.8% had no perineural invasion, 89.2% were nodular, and 65.8% were of nodular clinical and pathologic type, which were the most common variables of patients. It was revealed that early-onset (P<0.001), smaller size (P<0.001), high-risk pathologic type (P=0.01), and recurrent lesions (P=0.013) were significantly higher in the nasal BCC. However, there was no significant difference between BCC in the nose and other sites of the face in terms of gender (P=0.654), high-risk clinical type (P=0.06), and perineural invasion (P=0.275).

Conclusion:

Considering the nasal site as an important cosmetic unit, more limitation of the nose in performing any procedure, and presence of the more risk factors in the nose than in other areas of the face, the definite treatment of nasal BCC requires special attention, expertise, and experience.

The formulation and efficacy of topical Dorema ammoniacum in treating Melasma: a randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled trial

OBJECTIVES

An acquired melanin-related hyperpigmentation that occurs in sun exposure areas is Melasma which presents as gray-brown ridges and macules with prominent margins on the skin. The aim of this assay was to assess the formulation and efficacy of topical Dorema ammoniacum among Melasma patients.

METHODS

This study was a 30 days double-blind, randomized clinical trial in Melasma with a placebo group. The study was carried out on 49 patients with Melasma attending Haji Daii Nursing Center in Kermanshah, Iran. Optimized topical formulation of D. ammoniacum gum extract was prepared by evaluating the characteristics of different topical formulations of this plant. Mean Melasma severity index (MMASI) instrument was applied to assess the product effectiveness and to determine the skin stains. Patients were pursued to receive the treatment throughout the 30 days trial. This scaling was accomplished before the intervention and 30 days after the use of the herbal product. To analyze the quantitative variables, t-test and Mann-Whitney test were evaluated by SPSS 21 software, and p-value <0.05 was considered as the statistically significant.

RESULTS

The survey was performed on 40 female subjects (81.6%) and nine male subjects (18.4%) with the mean age of 32.18 ± 8.69. According to the results, the mean MSI in the drug group was significantly lower than before treatment and decreased from 86.98 ± 69.48 to 31.03 ± 32.62 (p-value <0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

In compliance with findings this survey revealed a positive effect of the cream formulation of D. ammoniacum extract on Melasma. As it was represented no side effects, this formulation is appropriate for the treatment of Melasma.

The effect of a hydrogel made by Nigella sativa L. on acne vulgaris: A randomized double-blind clinical trial

Nigella sativa L. (black seed) is one of the main medicinal plants frequently cited in traditional Persian medicine manuscripts for management of acne vulgaris. The present study was designed to investigate the efficacy of a topical preparation from N. sativa in acne vulgaris. In a randomized double-blind controlled clinical trial, 60 patients (30 patients in treatment and 30 in placebo group) were randomly received N. sativa hydrogel (standardized based on thymoquinone) or placebo hydrogel, twice daily for 60 days. The Investigator's Global Assessment (IGA) grading score was recorded for each patient. Moreover, acne disability index (ADI) was evaluated using a standard questionnaire filled out by the patients at the beginning and end of the study. A 78% mean reduction in the IGA score on the N. sativa-treated group was recorded compared with 3.3% on the vehicle-treated one. Significant reductions in the number of comedones, papules, and pustules were observed in the treatment group compared with placebo after 2 months. Also, ADI was decreased 63.49% in the treatment versus 4.5% in the placebo groups. No adverse event was recorded. N. sativa hydrogel had significant effects on improving the symptoms of acne vulgaris with acceptable tolerability.

Serial interval and time-varying reproduction number estimation for COVID-19 in western Iran

There is no report on the serial interval (SI) of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in Iran, the present report aims to estimate the SI and time-varying R of COVID-19 in western Iran. In this study, there were 1477 confirmed, probable and suspected cases of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 for Kermanshah from 22 February to 9 April. The close contacts of the confirmed cases were identified using telephone follow up of patients and their contacts. The SI distribution was used as an alternative. We fitted different models using the clinical onset dates of patients with their close contact (infector–infectee). Also, we applied a ‘serial interval from sample’ approach as a Bayesian methodology for estimating reproduction number. From 22 February to 29 March, 247 COVID-19 cases were confirmed by RT-PCR. Close contact between 21 patients (21 infector–infectee pairs), including 12 primary cases and 21 secondary cases, was confirmed. The mean and standard deviation of the SI were estimated as 5.71 and 3.89 days. The R varied from 0.79 to 1.88 for a 7-day time-lapse and ranged from 0.92 to 1.64 for a 14-day time-lapse on raw data. Also, the R varied from 0.83 to 1.84 for 7-day time-lapse and from 0.95 to 1.54 for a 14-day time-lapse using moving average data, respectively. It can be concluded that the low reproduction number for COVID-19 in Kermanshah province is an indication of the effectiveness of preventive and interventive programmes such as quarantine and isolation. Consequently, continuing these preventive measures is highly recommended.

The Insulin-like Growth Factor-1 (G>A) and 5,10-methylenetetrahydrofolate Reductase (C677T) Gene Variants and the Serum Levels of Insulin-like Growth Factor-1, Insulin, and Homeostasis Model Assessment in Patients with Acne Vulgaris

Background & Objective

To find an association between gene variants of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) and 5,10-methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) with the risk of acne vulgaris (AV).

Methods

In a case-control study, we investigated 150 AV patients and 148 healthy individuals (aged 18-25 years) for the IGF-1 G>A and MTHFR C677T polymorphisms, as well as the serum levels of IGF-1, insulin, and the homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR). The serum biochemical parameters and the genotypes of IGF-1 G>A and MTHFR C677T were detected by using appropriate kits and polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) methods, respectively.

Results

The frequencies of IGF-1 and the MTHFR polymorphisms were not significantly different comparing patients and controls. The serum level of IGF-1 was 179.8±72.8 µg/L in AV patients compared to 164.6±63.7 µg/L in controls (P=0.056). The serum level of insulin in female patients was significantly higher than controls. The HOMA was 3.54±5.6 in patients compared to 1.16±1.4 (P<0.001) in controls. Significantly higher levels of fasting blood sugar (FBS), total cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C) were detected in female patients than controls. However, the level of estradiol was significantly lower in female patients than in controls. In females, the presence of the MTHFR T allele was associated with significantly higher levels of FBS and LDL-C, as well as a significantly lower level of estradiol compared to those carriers of the C allele.

Conclusion

We found the absence of an association between IGF-1 and MTHFR polymorphisms with the risk of AV. However, increased insulin, IGF-1, and HOMA levels in AV patients indicated the effect of insulin and insulin resistance in the risk of AV and its severity.

Access Matting Reduces Mixedgrass Prairie Soil and Vegetation Responses to Industrial Disturbance

Substantial interest exists in understanding the role of low-disturbance construction methods in mitigating industrial impacts to native grassland soils and vegetation. We assessed soil and vegetation responses to conventional high-disturbance sod-stripping and revegetation on sandy soils, and the alternative practice of low-disturbance access matting to provide a temporary work surface on sandy and loamy soils. Treatments were associated with high-voltage transmission tower construction during 2014 within the Mixedgrass Prairie. High-disturbance sites were hydroseeded in May of 2015, while low-disturbance sites recovered naturally. We assessed soil physical (bulk density, water infiltration) and chemical properties (organic matter, pH, and electrical conductivity) after construction and herbage biomass for three growing seasons. Sod-stripping led to 53% greater soil bulk density and 51% less organic matter than nondisturbed controls, while water infiltration increased by 32% in these high-sand (>80%) soils. In contrast, access matting led to minimal soil property changes regardless of the texture. While total herbage biomass was unaffected by all construction treatments, sod-stripping reduced grass biomass by 80% during the first growing season, which coincided with a 119% increase in forb mass. Root biomass (0-15 cm) also declined 77% with sod-stripping. Vegetation biomass on sites with access matting remained largely unaffected by the disturbance. Overall, low-disturbance construction methods using access matting were more effective than sod-stripping in mitigating the negative impacts of industrial development on Mixedgrass soil properties, as well as vegetation biomass, and are recommended as a best management practice during industrial disturbance.

The prevalence of kidney scarring due to urinary tract infection in Iranian children: a systematic review and meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

Urinary tract infection is one of the most common diseases in childhood, and can lead to severe complications such as renal scarring in case of lack of diagnosis and timely treatment.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of kidney scarring caused by urinary tract infection in Iranian children by meta-analysis.

STUDY DESIGN

English -language databases including Science Direct, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Springer, and Persian -language sites including SID, Magiran, Iranmedex, and Medlib, and the Google Scholar search engine were searched by in March 2018 using MeSH keywords. The heterogeneity of studies was studied using the I2 index. Data were analyzed using STATA software, version 15.1.

RESULTS

In 18 studies, the prevalence of kidney scarring from urinary tract infections in Iranian children was 31% (95% confidence intervalCI: 22%-39%), (which was 14% in girls and 23% in boys. Also, the prevalence of kidney scar in children with urinary reflux was 47% and in children without urinary reflux was 12%. The most common symptom of the renal scar was fever in 61%, followed by urinary reflux in 45% (unilateral in 42% and bilateral in 30%). Also, the prevalence of mild, moderate, and severe reflux, respectively, was 31%, 27%, and 13%. Meta-regression also showed that the prevalence of kidney scar due to urinary tract infections had no significant relationship with the number of samples and years of research (P > 0.05).

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

About one-third of Iranian children suffering from urinary tract infections had kidney scarring, so that the prevalence is lower in girls than in boys. Also, the prevalence of renal scarring in children with urinary reflux is about four times higher than that in children without urinary reflux.

The ESC ACCA EAPCI EORP acute coronary syndrome ST-elevation myocardial infarction registry

Aims 

The Acute Cardiac Care Association (ACCA)–European Association of Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (EAPCI) Registry on ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) of the EurObservational programme (EORP) of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) registry aimed to determine the current state of the use of reperfusion therapy in ESC member and ESC affiliated countries and the adherence to ESC STEMI guidelines in patients with STEMI.

Methods and results 

Between 1 January 2015 and 31 March 2018, a total of 11 462 patients admitted with an initial diagnosis of STEMI according to the 2012 ESC STEMI guidelines were enrolled. Individual patient data were collected across 196 centres and 29 countries. Among the centres, there were 136 percutaneous coronary intervention centres and 91 with cardiac surgery on-site. The majority of centres (129/196) were part of a STEMI network. The main objective of this study was to describe the demographic, clinical, and angiographic characteristics of patients with STEMI. Other objectives include to assess management patterns and in particular the current use of reperfusion therapies and to evaluate how recommendations of most recent STEMI European guidelines regarding reperfusion therapies and adjunctive pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments are adopted in clinical practice and how their application can impact on patients’ outcomes. Patients will be followed for 1 year after admission.

Conclusion 

The ESC ACCA-EAPCI EORP ACS STEMI registry is an international registry of care and outcomes of patients hospitalized with STEMI. It will provide insights into the contemporary patient profile, management patterns, and 1-year outcome of patients with STEMI.

PPARγ Pro12Ala and C161T polymorphisms in patients with acne vulgaris: Contribution to lipid and lipoprotein profile

PURPOSE

The aim of present study was to clarify the role of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) Pro12Ala and C161T variants in the pathogenesis of acne vulgaris (AV) and their influence on lipid and lipoprotein profile.

METHODS

The present case-control study consisted of 393 individuals including 198 patients with AV (mild-, moderate-, and severe-AV) and 195 unrelated age-matched healthy individuals from Western Iran. The PPARγ Pro12Ala and C161T polymorphisms were identified using polymerase chain reaction-restriction length polymorphism method. Also, serum lipid and lipoprotein profile and fasting blood sugar (FBS) were detected in studied individuals.

RESULTS

In women patients with AV significantly higher serum levels of FBS, total cholesterol, low density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C) and high density lipoprotein-cholesterol compared to healthy women were detected. Neither PPARγ Pro12Ala nor C161T polymorphism was associated with the risk of AV but the Pro allele was a risk factor for AV among all men and women patients ≥20years. The variant genotype of PPARγ CG (Pro/Ala) was associated with significantly higher levels of total cholesterol and triglycerides compared to CC (Pro/Pro) genotype. We detected a significantly lower level of FBS in the presence of CT+TT genotype of PPARγ C161T compared to CC genotype. Also, carriers of PPARγ TT genotype had significantly lower serum level of total cholesterol and LDL-C compared to CC genotype.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results demonstrated the association of PPARγ Pro allele with susceptibility to AV in patients ≥20years and the influence of PPARγ Pro12Ala and C161T polymorphisms on the lipid and lipoprotein profile.

Mesoporous MgO/PPG hybrid nanofibers: synthesis, optimization, characterization and heavy metal removal property

In this research, mesoporous magnesium oxide/poly(propylene glycol) (MgO/PPG) hybrid nanofibers were synthesized as a new adsorbent for the removal of heavy metal ions from solutions.

Association of the CYP17 MSP AI (T-34C) and CYP19 codon 39 (Trp/Arg) polymorphisms with susceptibility to acne vulgaris

The aim of this study was to detect the association of the cytochrome P450 (CYP) 17 T-34C and CYP19 T<C polymorphisms with the risk of acne vulgaris (AV). The study enrolled 198 patients with AV (mild, moderate and severe) and 195 unrelated age-matched healthy controls from western Iran who had Kurdish ethnic background. The presence of the CYP17 TC genotype significantly increased the risk of mild, moderate and severe AV by 2.68, 2.28 and 2.94 times, respectively, while the presence of the CYP19 TC genotype significantly elevated the risk of overall AV and mild AV by 2.1 and 3.2 times, respectively. There was a synergy between the CYP 17 TC and CYP19 TT genotypes, which increased the risk of AV by 2.45-fold (P < 0.001). To our knowledge, this is the first study showing that the CYP17 T-34C and CYP19 T<C variants and their synergy are associated with susceptibility to AV in an Iranian population.

Trend of Suicide in Kermanshah during 11 years (2004 to 2014), Iran

Suicide is one of the most important health problems which has dedicated a significant part of the energy and health care costs to itself. The present study carried out to investigate trend of suicide in Kermanshah province during 2004-2014. This is an analytical (cross sectional) study in which all cases died by suicide and documented in forensics of Kermanshah during 2004 – 2014 were investigated. For evaluating the trend for suicide, Poisson regression model was used and to calculate suicide rate, census data from 2006 and 2011 as well as Organization for Civil Registration were obtained. During the 11 years of study, 2799 people died in Kermanshah province by suicide; among which 1681 (60.1%) were men and 1118 (39.9%) were women. The average annual mortality rate was 15.77 per 100,000; that is, 12.81 women and 18.62 men per every 100,000 populations. The highest number of deaths caused by suicide was witnessed among the age group 20-24 by 24.91 per 100,000. The most common method of suicide death was self-immolation among women with 47.8% and hanging in men with 48.1%. Over these years, suicide by hanging was rising with almost constant rate; however, self-immolation was rising until the end of 2008 that it started to decrease. Although the deaths by suicide in west of Iran is lower compared to other countries; it is higher in this region than other parts of the country. Considering the suicide trend and young population of Iran, the overall rate of deaths by suicide will substantially increase in Iran in case no plan and appropriate strategy are provided.Journal of Medical and Biomedical Sciences (2017) 6(2), 17- 24

Efficacy and Tolerability of Phytomedicines in Multiple Sclerosis Patients: A Review

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory and demyelinating disorder of the central nervous system (CNS) that can cause cognition, mobility, and sensory impairments. It is considered one of the most common non-traumatic causes of disability in the world. The aim of the present article was to review the clinical evidence related to medicinal plants in the management of MS symptoms. Electronic databases, including the Cochrane Library, Pubmed, and Scopus, were searched for entries from 1966 to February 2017. Only clinical studies were included in this review. Different medicinal plants have positive effects on MS, including Andrographis paniculata, Boswellia papyrifera, Ruta graveolens, Vaccinium spp., Camellia sinensis, Panax ginseng, Aloysia citrodora, Ginkgo biloba, Oenothera biennis, and Cannabis sativa. C. sativa had the highest level of clinical evidence, supporting its efficacy in MS symptoms. Proanthocyanidins, ginkgo flavone glycosides, ginsenosides, epigallocatechin-3-gallate, cannabinoids (including delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabidiol), boswellic acid, and andrographolide were presented as the main bioactive components of medicinal plants with therapeutic benefits in MS. The main complications of MS in which natural drugs were effective include spasticity, fatigue, scotoma, incontinence, urinary urgency, nocturia, memory performance, functional performance, and tremor. Herbal medicines were mostly well tolerated, and the adverse effects were limited to mild to moderate. Further well-designed human studies with a large sample size and longer follow-up period are recommended to confirm the role of medicinal plants and their metabolites in the management of MS.

Medicinal Plants: Antibacterial Effects and Chemical Composition of Essential Oil of Foeniculum vulgare

Medicinal plants are considered modern resources for producing agents that could act as alternatives to antibiotics in demeanor of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. The aim of the study was to evaluate the chemical composition and antibacterial activities of essential oil of Foeniculum vulgare (FV) against Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Bacillus subtilis. Gas chromatography mass spectrometry was done to specify chemical composion. As a screen test to detect antibacterial properties of the essential oil, agar disk and agar well diffusion methods were employed. Macrobroth tube test was performed to determinate MIC. The results indicated that the most substance found in FV essential oil was Trans-anethole (47.41 %), also the essential oil of FV with 0.007 g/ml concentration has prevented P. aeruginosa and with 0.002 g/ml concentration has prevented B. subtilis from the growth. Thus, the research represents the antibacterial effects of the medical herb on test P. aeruginosa and B. subtilis. We believe that the article provide support to the antibacterial properties of the essential oil. The results indicate the fact that the essential oil from the plant can be useful as medicinal or preservatives composition.

Promising effect of Rosa damascena extract on high-fat diet-induced nonalcoholic fatty liver

NAFLD is a chronic liver disease that affects a high proportion of the world's population which causes metabolic and hepatic damages. Rosa damascena Mill is traditionally used as a dietary supplement for liver disorders. This study was carried out to determine the beneficial effect of standardized extract of R. damascena on animal model of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). NAFLD was induced by high-fat diet (HFD) in Wistar rats. HFD rats showed an increase (p < 0.05) in the plasma lipid levels of total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and reduced the high-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels. R. damascena significantly reduced the elevation of final body weight, liver fat accumulation, TG, TC, LDL-C concentrations and hepatic enzymes (p < 0.05). Histopathological examination of hepatic tissue confirmed the therapeutic effect of R. damascena. Improvement of total antioxidant power activity, total thiol content, MPO enzyme activity, and also lipid peroxidation were also considered in treated animals (p < 0.05). HPLC analysis showed that phenolic compounds including gallic acid, quercetin and syringic acid are the main bioactive compounds of R. damascena hydroalcoholic extract. In conclusion, R. damascena dietary supplementation has a therapeutic effect in NAFLD. Improvement of oxidative stress associated damage in liver tissue is among the main pharmacological mechanisms involved in therapeutic activity of the plant.

ACL reconstruction using bone-patella tendon-bone autograft: press-fit technique vs. interference screw fixation

PURPOSE

The gold standard in ACL reconstructions has been the bone-patellar tendon-bone autograft fixed with interference screws. This prospective, randomized clinical trial aimed to compare two methods of fixation for BPTB grafts: press-fit fixation vs. interference screw, over a 12-month follow-up interval.

METHODS

158 patients with an average age of 29.8 years, between 2011 and 2012, were treated for torn ACL. 82 patients underwent reconstruction with BPTB autograft with a press fit fixation technique, and in 76 cases an interference screw was used. At the time of final follow-up, 71 patients in press-fit group and 65 patients in interference screw group were evaluated in terms of return to pre-injury activity level, pain, knee stability, range of motion, IKDC score and complications.

RESULTS

At 12-month follow-up, 59 (83 %) and 55 (85 %) in press-fit and screw group, respectively had good-to-excellent IKDC score (p > 0.05). The mean laxity assessed using a KT-1000 arthrometer improved to 2.7 and 2.5 mm in press-fit and screw group, respectively. Regarding Lachman and pivot shift test, there was a statistically significant improvement in the integrity of the ACL in both the groups, but no significant differences was noted between groups. There were no significant differences in terms of femur circumference difference, effusion, knee range of motion, pain and complications.

CONCLUSIONS

The press-fit technique is an efficient procedure. Its outcome was comparable with the interference screw group. Furthermore it has unlimited bone-to-bone healing, no need for removal of hardware, ease for revision and cost effectiveness.

Treatment of intertrochanteric fractures in elderly highrisk patients: dynamic hip screw vs. external fixation

INTRODUCTION

Although the use of a dynamic hip screw (DHS) is considered to be the preferred treatment for intertrochanteric fractures, the external fixation device could produce clinical outcomes comparable to the outcomes obtained with conventional treatment. Furthermore, because external fixation is minimally invasive, we expected a lower rate of morbidity. Therefore, we compared the two treatments in a clinical trial of elderly patients with intertrochanteric fracture.

METHODS

60 elderly high-risk patients with an average age of 78 years were treated for intertrochanteric fracture, resulting from a low energy trauma. Patients were randomly divided in two groups regarding to treatment. In Group A the patients were treated with DHS, while in Group B were treated with external fixator.

RESULTS

The fixator was well accepted and no patient had significant difficulties while sitting or lying. The average intraoperative time was 73 min in Group A and 15 min in Group B (p<0.05). 27 patients of Group A need blood transfusion postoperatively and none in Group B (p<0.05). The mean duration of hospitalization in Group A and Group B was 8.4 and 2.2 days, respectively (p<0.05). 9 of patients Group B had pin-track infection grade 2 that all were treated by oral antibiotics. There were no differences in comorbidities, quality of reduction, screw cut out, bed sore and HHS between the two groups.

CONCLUSION

Treatment with external fixator is an effective treatment for intertrochanteric fractures in elderly highrisk patients. The advantages include quick and simple application, minimal blood loss, less radiation exposure, adequate fixation, pain reduction, early discharge from hospital, low costs and favourable functional outcomes.

Study of operated primary and secondary (recurrence) hydatidosis in hospitals of Kermanshah, west of Islamic Republic of Iran

Cystic echinococcosis, caused by the larval stage of Echinoccocus granulosus, is a global public health threat. The aim of this study was to determine the demographic and clinical characteristics of cases of primary and secondary hydatid cyst in the west of the Islamic Republic of Iran. A retrospective record review was made in 7 public and private hospitals in Kermanshah from 2004 to 2009. Of 526 files of suspected cases analysed, 291 cases of hydatid cyst had been operated upon and confirmed. Of the patients, 51.5% were females, 57.7% lived in urban and suburban areas and the largest age group (17.5%) was 31-40 years. The major organs involved were liver (64.9%) and lung (26.8%) and 18 cases (6.2%) were confirmed as secondary hydatidosis. Most patients (79.4%) had been treated with albendazole. Kermanshah province should be considered an endemic region for human hydatid cyst disease; greater efforts in prevention are needed.

Trends of skin cancer incidence in 6 geographical regions of the Islamic Republic of Iran, 2000-2005

Data about the incidence of skin cancer in the Islamic Republic of Iran are lacking. This study investigated trends in the incidence of skin cancer (lCD-10 category C44, other malignant neoplasms of skin) in 6 regions using data from the Iranian cancer registry from 2000 to 2005. The standardized incidence rates in each year were calculated by the direct method using the standard World Health Organization population and a Poisson regression model was applied to analyse trends. Over the study period, 30 701 cases of cancer were identified, rising from 2353 in 2000 to 8484 in 2005. The male-to-female ratio was 1.6. The age-standardized incidence rose significantly from 3.8 cases per 100 000 in 2000 to 13.0 in 2005 (slope = 0.26), and the same trend was seen in all regions except the region to the east of the Caspian Sea. This increasing incidence of skin cancer in the Islamic Republic of Iran is similar to that reported in other countries.

The effects of excess copper on antioxidative enzymes, lipid peroxidation, proline, chlorophyll, and concentration of Mn, Fe, and Cu in Astragalus neo-mobayenii

To probe the physiological and biochemical tolerance mechanisms in Astragalus neo-mobayenii Maassoumi, an endemic plant around the Cu-rich areas from the North West of Iran, the effect of different copper concentrations at toxic levels on this plant was investigated. Copper was applied in the form of copper sulfate (CuSO₄·5H₂O) in four levels (0, 50, 100, and 150 μM). We observed no visible symptoms of Cu toxicity in this plant species. During the exposure of plants to excess copper, the antioxidant defense system helped the plant to protect itself from the damage. With increasing copper concentration, superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), and catalase (CAT) activities increased in leaves and roots (P < 0.001) compared with that of the control group. The chlorophyll amount gradually declined with increasing Cu concentrations. However, reduction in the 50 μM level showed insignificant changes. Enhanced accumulation of proline content in the leaves was determined, as well as an increase of MDA content (oxidative damage biomarker) (P < 0.001). The results indicated that Cu contents in leaves and roots enhanced with increasing levels of Cu application. The Fe and Mn contents in both shoots and roots significantly decreased with increasing Cu concentration. Finally, the mechanisms of copper toxicity and copper tolerance in this plant were briefly discussed.

Efficacy of influenza vaccination in patients with cirrhosis and inactive carriers of hepatitis B virus infection

BACKGROUND

Influenza can causes morbidity and mortality that are greatly enhanced in patients with underlying chronic diseases such as Cirrhotic patients. This study was performed to assess the immunogenicity of Influenza vaccination in patients with cirrhosis and inactive carriers of Hepatitis B virus infection.

METHODS

In this clinical study 93 enrolled subjects divided into 3 groups: Cirrhotic (N=28), Inactive carriers of Hepatitis B (N=31) and subjects (N=34). All the participants were vaccinated by Influenza vaccine (Influvac®). Serum samples were taken before and 4 weeks after vaccination and the Humoral Immunogenicity was assessed by the Hemagglutination Inhibition (HI) test.

RESULTS

Four weeks after vaccination, seroconversion rates of vaccine strains ranged between 71.4% and 100% in Group 1, 70.6% and 94.1% in Group 2, and 58.1% and 80.7% in Group 3. No significant differences were seen in the rates of Seroconversion and antibody Geometric Mean Titers (GMTs) against Influenza A (H1N1 and H3N2) vaccine components in the three groups (P>0.05).The rates of Seroconversion and antibody GMTs against Influenza B vaccine component were significantly higher in Cirrhotic and inactive carriers of Hepatitis B than healthy subjects (P<0.005). No significant (P>0.05) differences in the rates of Seroprotection were observed within the three groups. Antibody GMTs against all three strains of Influenza vaccine increased significantly (P<0.001) after vaccination in three groups.

CONCLUSION

Influenza vaccination is effective in Cirrhotic patients and inactive carriers of Hepatitis B as well as healthy individuals. It means that vaccination should be considered in such patients in order to reduce the morbidity and mortality of Influenza.

Trends in incidence of gastrointestinal tract cancers in Western iran, 1993-2007

BACKGROUND

Few studies have addressed the secular trend of malignancies in developing countries such as Iran. This study aimed to determine the trend in the incidence of gastrointestinal cancers during a period of 15 years in Kermanshah, Iran.

METHODS

All of the confirmed positive pathologic reports for esophageal, gastric and colorectal cancers from 1993 to 2007 were collected and compared with the data compiled in the provincial health center. The incidence rate was standardized for world population using a direct method. The Fay and Feuer method was used to calculate the 95% confidence intervals for each cancer in each year. Trends were investigated using linear regression.

RESULTS

Over the period, 2951 cases of gastrointestinal cancer were reported in Kermanshah Province. The age-standardized incidence rates for gastric, esophageal and colorectal cancers were 9.2, 8.1 and 4.5 per 100,000 respectively over 15 years. In all types, the incidence increased with age. The study showed that the incidence of gastric and esophageal cancers decreased annually by 0.28 (-0.67-0.11) and 0.36 (-0.70 - (-0.02)), respectively. Colorectal cancer demonstrated an increase in the incidence [0.14 (95% CI: -0.01-0.29) annually].

CONCLUSION

A decrease in the incidence of gastric and esophageal cancers and an increase in the incidence of colorectal cancer are in line with reports from other developing countries in epidemiologic transition. Such trends warrant in depth investigation for the exact reasons.

The experimental and theoretical QM/MM study of interaction of chloridazon herbicide with ds-DNA

We report a multispectroscopic, voltammetric and theoretical hybrid of QM/MM study of the interaction between double-stranded DNA containing both adenine-thymine and guanine-cytosine alternating sequences and chloridazon (CHL) herbicide. The electrochemical behavior of CHL was studied by cyclic voltammetry on HMDE, and the interaction of ds-DNA with CHL was investigated by both cathodic differential pulse voltammetry (CDPV) at a hanging mercury drop electrode (HMDE) and anodic differential pulse voltammetry (ADPV) at a glassy carbon electrode (GCE). The constant bonding of CHL-DNA complex that was obtained by UV/vis, CDPV and ADPV was 2.1×10(4), 5.1×10(4) and 2.6×10(4), respectively. The competition fluorescence studies revealed that the CHL quenches the fluorescence of DNA-ethidium bromide complex significantly and the apparent Stern-Volmer quenching constant has been estimated to be 1.71×10(4). Thermal denaturation study of DNA with CHL revealed the ΔTm of 8.0±0.2°C. Thermodynamic parameters, i.e., enthalpy (ΔH), entropy (ΔS°), and Gibbs free energy (ΔG) were 98.45 kJ mol(-1), 406.3 J mol(-1) and -22.627 kJ mol(-1), respectively. The ONIOM, based on the hybridization of QM/MM (DFT, 6.31++G(d,p)/UFF) methodology, was also performed using Gaussian 2003 package. The results revealed that the interaction is base sequence dependent, and the CHL has more interaction with ds-DNA via the GC base sequence. The results revealed that CHL may have an interaction with ds-DNA via the intercalation mode.

Household catastrophic health expenditure

BACKGROUND

Fairness in financial contribution for health was determined by WHO (World Health Report, 2000) as the third goal of health systems which is measured by fairness in financial contribution index (FFCI). The aim of this study was to estimate FFCI and quantify extent of catastrophic household heath expenditures.

METHODS

We conducted a descriptive study during May 2008. Subjects were chosen by "Systematic Random sampling" among residents of Maskan's population-based research center (Maskan Center) in Kermanshah, Iran. After completing informed consent form, we collected data using a questionnaire by interview with head of family. In order to describing data and estimating FFCI, we used descriptive statistics and WHO methodology, respectively. Households with catastrophic expenditures and impoverished households were defined as those with health expenditures over 40% and 50% of their ability to pay, respectively.

RESULTS

The mean age of head of families was 48.96±12.86 years. From 189; 12.7% of household's heads were female. 75.1% of households were covered by at least one health insurance scheme. FFCI was 0.57. The proportion of households facing catastrophic health expenditures was 22.2% (95% CI=16.3%-28.1%)

CONCLUSION

The rate of FFCI among participants implied an inequality in health financing contribution. In addition, many of households (22.2%) faced catastrophic health expenditures while according to WHO estimation, the figure in the whole country was 2% in 1999. Our study revealed the importance of protecting households against the costs of ill-health.

Catastrophic health expenditures in kermanshah, west of iran: magnitude and distribution

BACKGROUND

Health policy makers are concerned about protecting people from catastrophic health expenditures and subsequent impoverishment. This study aimed to describe the magnitude and distribution of catastrophic health expenditures in Kermanshah western Iran.

METHODS

In this descriptive study, during May 2008, 189 households were chosen by "Systematic Random sampling" among the community of Maskan in Maskan Center for Population. After getting the informed consent forms signed, data ere collected using a questionnaire by interviewing the head of the families. The cut-off point for catastrophic expenditure was defined as health expenditures over 40% of household's capacity to pay.

RESULTS

From a total of 189 households, 22.2% (42) households (95% CI 16.3%- 28.1%) incurred catastrophic health expenditures. Out of 42 households, for 11.9%, the head of family was female. 40.5 % had one member younger than 12 years old, 26.2% had one member older than sixty years old, and 9.5% were households with at least one member with chronic condition. In addition, 19% were uninsured. In addition, because of financial burden of health expenditures 21.4% of the households sold their jewels, 16.7% used up their savings and 47.6% were in debt.

CONCLUSION

Compared to 2% of general population facing catastrophic health expenditure, 22.2% was a high proportion. Our study revealed the importance of protecting households against the cost of ill-health.

Growth and some physiological parameters of four sugar beet (Beta vulgaris l.) cultivars as affected by salinity

The comparative responses of certain biochemical and physiological characteristics to salinity were studied in 4 cultivars of sugar beet (Beta vulgaris L.) plants. Eight weeks old plants were treated with NaCl at 0, 25 and 50 mM in nutrient solutions. Plants were grown under controlled environment and harvested after 3 weeks for measurements of biochemical and physiological parameters. Results showed that in 25 mM NaCl for cultivars of ET5 and C3-3, soluble sugars in leaves, photosynthetic rate and growth parameters were significantly increased as compared to those of other cultivars. In 50 mM NaCl photosynthetic rate and soluble sugars were significantly increased only in ET5 cultivar as compared with those of others. Results indicated that in 25 mM NaCl, ET5 cultivar showed high growth responses and tolerated to 50 mM NaCl.

Growth and some physiological attributes of pea (Pisum sativum L.) as affected by salinity

The effects of salt stress were studied on growth and physiology of pea (Pisum sativum L. cv. Green Arrow) in a pot study. Pea plants were treated with NaCl at 0, 10, 30, 50 and 70 mM in Hoagland solution. Plants were harvested after 21 days for measurements of physiological parameters. The highest NAR and RGR were found in 10 mM NaCl. However, in 70 mM NaCl, RGR and RLGR were significantly decreased in respect of other concentrations of NaCl. In 50 and 70 mM NaCl, chlorophylls contents and photosynthetic rate, were significantly decreased and CO2 compensation concentration and respiration rate increased in comparison with control. In 10 and 30 mM NaCl gas exchanges and chlorophyll contents were not significantly decrease in respect of control. Results indicated that Pisum sativum L. cv. Green Arrow can tolerate to 70 mM NaCl, also growth of plants in 10 and 30 mM NaCl was better than that of those in 0 mM NaCl.