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Zainab Sadat Noorbakhsh, Fatemeh Sheikhshoaei, Dariush Matlabi, Farzaneh Fazli,
Volume 16, Issue 3 (8-2022)
Volume 16, Issue 3 (8-2022)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Medical resources are directly related to health of society and the book as one of the main sources has great importance. This study has been conducted to investigate pathology of medical sciences books publishing status and also identification of content, cultural and technical production challenges of these books in Iran from the viewpoint of publishers.
Materials and Methods: The present study in terms of purpose, approach, and method is applicable, qualitative and phenomenology. The research tool has been semi - structured interview and community were publishers of medical sciences books in two sections academic (Five) and private (eight) publishers. The interviews continued until the data saturation stage (13 interviews). First, open and axial coding was performed, which finally extracted 402 codes and then was categorized into 74 categories, which were analyzed using qualitative content analysis.
Results: The field of content production faced the most important challenges (53%), in which policy making absence (24 repetitions, 16%), no domestic high percentage of medical publication (23 repetitions, 16%), and the lack of expertise in medical publishers (11 repetitions, 7%), were declared by publishers. The problems of cultural production were in the second place with 39% and respectively include specialized and costly editing of the book, the lack of professional referees and the lack of structured review rules with 22 repetitions equivalent to 46%, 8 repetitions equivalent to 17% and 6 repetitions equivalent to 13%. The challenges of the technical production sector are reflected with a number equal to 8% of the total problems, which include the problems of raw materials printing and publishing (11 repetitions, 48%), lack of printing and publishing technology (5 repetitions, 23%) and the lack of technical expertise staff (3 repetitions, 13 percent).
Conclusion: According to the findings of this study and the revealed funds of damages in the medical publishing industry, it can be concluded that many publishing challenges in Iran are rooted in general policies, rules and culture. Therefore, more serious attention to the professional field of medical publishing from the government and unbiased policy making in order to divert the concerns of publishers can solve many obstacles and difficulties.
Materials and Methods: The present study in terms of purpose, approach, and method is applicable, qualitative and phenomenology. The research tool has been semi - structured interview and community were publishers of medical sciences books in two sections academic (Five) and private (eight) publishers. The interviews continued until the data saturation stage (13 interviews). First, open and axial coding was performed, which finally extracted 402 codes and then was categorized into 74 categories, which were analyzed using qualitative content analysis.
Results: The field of content production faced the most important challenges (53%), in which policy making absence (24 repetitions, 16%), no domestic high percentage of medical publication (23 repetitions, 16%), and the lack of expertise in medical publishers (11 repetitions, 7%), were declared by publishers. The problems of cultural production were in the second place with 39% and respectively include specialized and costly editing of the book, the lack of professional referees and the lack of structured review rules with 22 repetitions equivalent to 46%, 8 repetitions equivalent to 17% and 6 repetitions equivalent to 13%. The challenges of the technical production sector are reflected with a number equal to 8% of the total problems, which include the problems of raw materials printing and publishing (11 repetitions, 48%), lack of printing and publishing technology (5 repetitions, 23%) and the lack of technical expertise staff (3 repetitions, 13 percent).
Conclusion: According to the findings of this study and the revealed funds of damages in the medical publishing industry, it can be concluded that many publishing challenges in Iran are rooted in general policies, rules and culture. Therefore, more serious attention to the professional field of medical publishing from the government and unbiased policy making in order to divert the concerns of publishers can solve many obstacles and difficulties.
Alireza Monadi Sefidan, Reza Afrisham,
Volume 16, Issue 3 (8-2022)
Volume 16, Issue 3 (8-2022)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Previous studies have shown that viral and host miRNAs play a role in the process of controlling or progressing the disease and can even be considered as therapeutic targets. Accordingly, the present review study was designed to evaluate the role of host miRNAs and Covid-19 virus in the disease process.
Materials and Methods: The current study was a review study that was conducted during 2012-2022. Studies were extracted from PubMed, Google Scholar, Web of Science and Scopus scientific databases. The researchers selected relevant resources and a summary of them was presented in this review.
Results: The present review study showed that some host miRNAs such as miR-23b-5p, miR-200c, and miR-125a-5p had an inhibitory effect on ACE2 receptor, while miR-3909, miR-4677, and miR-133a had a stimulatory effect on this receptor. Furthermore, host miR-98-5p had an inhibitory effect on TMPRSS2 gene expression. On the other hand, host miR-146a, miR-21, and miR-142 induced inflammation through MAPK and NF-Ƙβ signaling. While, host miR-124, miR-410, and miR-1336 inhibited factor STAT3 and prevented inflammation. Furthermore, host miR-302b and miR-372 targeted the mitochondrial antiviral signaling protein (MAVS), resulting in silencing of type 1 interferon signaling. It has also been established that host exosomal miR-7-5p, miR-24-3p, miR-145-5p, and miR-223-3p inhibited the replication of SARS-CoV-2 and the expression of S protein and their decreased expression in elderly and Diabetic subjects was associated with decreased inhibition of SARS-CoV-2 replication. Moreover, viral miR-359-5p regulated the expression of MYH9 (non-muscle myosin heavy chain 9), which caused virus invasion and release in the host cell.
Conclusion: This study showed that many miRNAs play a role in controlling or progressing the disease of Covid-19 and it is possible to treat the disease of Covid-19 by changing the expression of viral and host miRNA. However, more research is needed in this regard.
Materials and Methods: The current study was a review study that was conducted during 2012-2022. Studies were extracted from PubMed, Google Scholar, Web of Science and Scopus scientific databases. The researchers selected relevant resources and a summary of them was presented in this review.
Results: The present review study showed that some host miRNAs such as miR-23b-5p, miR-200c, and miR-125a-5p had an inhibitory effect on ACE2 receptor, while miR-3909, miR-4677, and miR-133a had a stimulatory effect on this receptor. Furthermore, host miR-98-5p had an inhibitory effect on TMPRSS2 gene expression. On the other hand, host miR-146a, miR-21, and miR-142 induced inflammation through MAPK and NF-Ƙβ signaling. While, host miR-124, miR-410, and miR-1336 inhibited factor STAT3 and prevented inflammation. Furthermore, host miR-302b and miR-372 targeted the mitochondrial antiviral signaling protein (MAVS), resulting in silencing of type 1 interferon signaling. It has also been established that host exosomal miR-7-5p, miR-24-3p, miR-145-5p, and miR-223-3p inhibited the replication of SARS-CoV-2 and the expression of S protein and their decreased expression in elderly and Diabetic subjects was associated with decreased inhibition of SARS-CoV-2 replication. Moreover, viral miR-359-5p regulated the expression of MYH9 (non-muscle myosin heavy chain 9), which caused virus invasion and release in the host cell.
Conclusion: This study showed that many miRNAs play a role in controlling or progressing the disease of Covid-19 and it is possible to treat the disease of Covid-19 by changing the expression of viral and host miRNA. However, more research is needed in this regard.
Fahimeh Hasanzadeh, Ali Aghajanloo, Dr Mohammadreza Dinmohammadi,
Volume 16, Issue 4 (10-2022)
Volume 16, Issue 4 (10-2022)
Abstract
Background and Aim: The most recent threat to the global community is the ongoing outbreak of the disease known as Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). Taking personal protection measures (PPM) is crucial to prevent the spread of COVID-19. This study aimed to determine the factors affecting the acceptance of PPM among patients before having COVID-19 admitted to hospitals in northwestern of Iran.
Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 560 eligible patients with a diagnosis of COVID-19 were selected by convenience sampling. Data were collected from January 6 to May 21, 2021, through a researcher-made questionnaire and were analyzed with descriptive statistics (number, percentage, mean, standard deviation), independent t-test, and multiple linear regression by SPSS. A significance level of 5% was selected.
Results: The average age of the participants was 60.1 (16.01) years with an age range of 21 to 95 years. Most of the participants were male (53.9%) and married (91.8%). The mean score of PPM acceptance among patients was 16.55 (2.59) out of 20 points. Multiple linear regression analysis determined employment status (β=0.29, P<0.001), residency (β=-0.19, P<0.001), education level (β=0.11, P=0.048), smoking (β=-0.10, P=0.03) and income level (β=0.13, P=0.01), as predictors of acceptance of PPM. Other personal and occupational variables, including age, gender, marriage, living status, having children, and history of influenza vaccination, were not found to be effective in predicting the acceptance of personal protection measures among participating patients.
Conclusion: The acceptance of personal protection measures among patients was relatively high. Acceptance of the unemployed, rural residents, illiterate, smokers, and those with low-income level was low. This study emphasizes the need to pay attention to the changes in the individual, social and economic characteristics of the community and their effects on preventive health behaviors, especially in vulnerable groups.
Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 560 eligible patients with a diagnosis of COVID-19 were selected by convenience sampling. Data were collected from January 6 to May 21, 2021, through a researcher-made questionnaire and were analyzed with descriptive statistics (number, percentage, mean, standard deviation), independent t-test, and multiple linear regression by SPSS. A significance level of 5% was selected.
Results: The average age of the participants was 60.1 (16.01) years with an age range of 21 to 95 years. Most of the participants were male (53.9%) and married (91.8%). The mean score of PPM acceptance among patients was 16.55 (2.59) out of 20 points. Multiple linear regression analysis determined employment status (β=0.29, P<0.001), residency (β=-0.19, P<0.001), education level (β=0.11, P=0.048), smoking (β=-0.10, P=0.03) and income level (β=0.13, P=0.01), as predictors of acceptance of PPM. Other personal and occupational variables, including age, gender, marriage, living status, having children, and history of influenza vaccination, were not found to be effective in predicting the acceptance of personal protection measures among participating patients.
Conclusion: The acceptance of personal protection measures among patients was relatively high. Acceptance of the unemployed, rural residents, illiterate, smokers, and those with low-income level was low. This study emphasizes the need to pay attention to the changes in the individual, social and economic characteristics of the community and their effects on preventive health behaviors, especially in vulnerable groups.
Nazli Ebrahim Netaj, Maryam Rezaei Dastjerdi, Saham Ansari, Kamran Amirian Chayjan, Mahdi Sepidarkish, Jalal Jafarzadeh, Akbar Hossein Nejad, Mojtaba Taghizadeh Armaki,
Volume 16, Issue 4 (10-2022)
Volume 16, Issue 4 (10-2022)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Denture stomatitis is the most prevalent oral mucosal lesion among denture wearers. Because there have been multiple reports of resistance of Candida species to antifungal drugs in the last two decades, if the antifungal properties of Achillea millefolium and Trachyspermum ammi are validated, these compounds may be a suitable adjuvant drug along with the use of common antifungal drugs. Therefore, the current study aimed to assess the antifungal activity of alcoholic extracts of Achillea millefolium and Trachyspermum ammi against Candida albicans isolated from denture stomatitis.
Materials and Methods: Antifungal sensitivity of 50 isolates of C. albicans with the origin of denture stomatitis to the alcoholic extracts of Achillea millefolium and Trachyspermum ammi plants as well as the antifungal drugs miconazole and nystatin was determined by broth microdilution method and according to CLSI-M27S4 guidelines. The range of dilution for all compounds was 0.016-16 μg/ml. A concentration of compounds that showed at least 50% growth inhibition as compared to the positive control group was considered MIC (minimum growth inhibitory concentration). Statistical analysis was done using SPSS software and the significance level was considered as P<0.05.
Results: The MIC ranges in microbroth dilution method for the antifungal drugs miconazole, nystatin, as well as the alcoholic extracts of Achillea millefolium and Trachyspermum ammi plants on C. albicans, were close to each other, indicating that their effectiveness against C. albicans species does not differ significantly (P<0.05). The Achillea millefolium methanolic extract had the highest and lowest MIC values, with an average of 2.67±2.55 μg/ml and 0.067±0.057 μg/ml, respectively. A significant difference (P<0.001) was observed when the MICs outcomes the herbal alcoholic extracts and antifungal drugs were compared.
Conclusion: Based on the obtained MICs, Achillea millefolium and Trachyspermum ammi alcoholic plant extracts have a lesser efficacy than the antifungal drugs, but even though they may have a lower MIC and more effectiveness than other chemical drugs.
Materials and Methods: Antifungal sensitivity of 50 isolates of C. albicans with the origin of denture stomatitis to the alcoholic extracts of Achillea millefolium and Trachyspermum ammi plants as well as the antifungal drugs miconazole and nystatin was determined by broth microdilution method and according to CLSI-M27S4 guidelines. The range of dilution for all compounds was 0.016-16 μg/ml. A concentration of compounds that showed at least 50% growth inhibition as compared to the positive control group was considered MIC (minimum growth inhibitory concentration). Statistical analysis was done using SPSS software and the significance level was considered as P<0.05.
Results: The MIC ranges in microbroth dilution method for the antifungal drugs miconazole, nystatin, as well as the alcoholic extracts of Achillea millefolium and Trachyspermum ammi plants on C. albicans, were close to each other, indicating that their effectiveness against C. albicans species does not differ significantly (P<0.05). The Achillea millefolium methanolic extract had the highest and lowest MIC values, with an average of 2.67±2.55 μg/ml and 0.067±0.057 μg/ml, respectively. A significant difference (P<0.001) was observed when the MICs outcomes the herbal alcoholic extracts and antifungal drugs were compared.
Conclusion: Based on the obtained MICs, Achillea millefolium and Trachyspermum ammi alcoholic plant extracts have a lesser efficacy than the antifungal drugs, but even though they may have a lower MIC and more effectiveness than other chemical drugs.
Rajabali Daroudi, Mahmoud Zamandi,
Volume 16, Issue 6 (1-2023)
Volume 16, Issue 6 (1-2023)
Abstract
Background and Aim: The role of accurate information in decision-making and programs implementation has highlighted the need to design an appropriate costing system. The present study aimed to estimate the cost of student Training in the Department of Health Management and Economics at the School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences using activity-based costing.
Materials and Methods: This research was an applied, descriptive, and cross-sectional study. In this study, all information was collected through interviews with seven officials, financial and administrative staff, and also by using available documents in the faculty. To analyze the costs, the administrative and educational sections were classified into three levels including overhead, middle, and final activity centers, and, using appropriate bases and Microsoft Excel 2013 software, costs of overhead, middle, and final activity centers, and finally, the total cost of each student was calculated.
Results: In this study, the total cost of education for each Ph.D. and master’s student in the department of health management and economics was estimated as 1.95 billion and 376 million IR Rials, respectively. So that the cost of each year of Ph.D. and master’s student education was 433 and 150 million IR Rials, respectively. Out of the total costs of the Department of Health Management and Economics, only 22% of the costs were related to overhead and middle activity centers, and 78% of the costs were exclusive to the final activity center, and the majority of these costs (97%) were related to the personnel, especially the faculty members.
Conclusion: The cost of training Ph.D. students due to the high coefficient of the degree and thus increasing the importance (cost share) of the field, receiving a scholarship from the Ministry of Health and a longer period of study, was estimated to be about 5 times that of a master’s degree. The Ministry of Health and universities can design and implement targeted research programs with the help of faculty members and graduate students, especially Ph.D. students, to solve problems and improve the health of the community, thus improving resource efficiency and productivity.
Materials and Methods: This research was an applied, descriptive, and cross-sectional study. In this study, all information was collected through interviews with seven officials, financial and administrative staff, and also by using available documents in the faculty. To analyze the costs, the administrative and educational sections were classified into three levels including overhead, middle, and final activity centers, and, using appropriate bases and Microsoft Excel 2013 software, costs of overhead, middle, and final activity centers, and finally, the total cost of each student was calculated.
Results: In this study, the total cost of education for each Ph.D. and master’s student in the department of health management and economics was estimated as 1.95 billion and 376 million IR Rials, respectively. So that the cost of each year of Ph.D. and master’s student education was 433 and 150 million IR Rials, respectively. Out of the total costs of the Department of Health Management and Economics, only 22% of the costs were related to overhead and middle activity centers, and 78% of the costs were exclusive to the final activity center, and the majority of these costs (97%) were related to the personnel, especially the faculty members.
Conclusion: The cost of training Ph.D. students due to the high coefficient of the degree and thus increasing the importance (cost share) of the field, receiving a scholarship from the Ministry of Health and a longer period of study, was estimated to be about 5 times that of a master’s degree. The Ministry of Health and universities can design and implement targeted research programs with the help of faculty members and graduate students, especially Ph.D. students, to solve problems and improve the health of the community, thus improving resource efficiency and productivity.
Saeed Nazari, Simin Taj Sharififar, Milad Ahmadi Marzaleh, Sanaz Zargar Balaye Jame, Somayeh Azarmi, Yousuf Akbari Shahrestanaki,
Volume 17, Issue 1 (3-2023)
Volume 17, Issue 1 (3-2023)
Abstract
Background and Aim: The field of pre-hospital rapid response teams is facing major challenges in the field of chemical, biological, radiation and nuclear accidents. Considering that the country of Iran is exposed to the occurrence of these incidents, the possibility of the danger of these incidents and threats cannot be ignored. This study was conducted with the aim of determining effective factors in the formation of pre-hospital rapid response teams in the field of health in response to CBRN accidents.
Materials and Methods: the current study is qualitative research with a content analysis approach; which was conducted using semi-structured in-depth interviews with 18 specialists and experts through purposive and snowball sampling. Sampling was done until data saturation. Thematic analysis method was used to analyze the data. The study aimed to extract effective factors in the formation of pre-hospital rapid response teams in the field of health in response to chemical, biological, radiation and nuclear accidents in Iran in 2022.
Results: The factors affecting the formation of the team were divided into 5 main classes and 5 subgroups including capacity building (Education, training), operational requirements (information and communication, command and control, emergency response operational plan, internal and external coordination), required resources (equipment, financing), team formation requirements (decontamination requirements, structural requirements) and team formation structure (general team composition, specialized team composition). The highest number of codes with 39% was related to the emergency response operational plan subcategory and the lowest number of codes with 8% was related to the equipment subcategory.
Conclusion: This study presented the design of the local pre-hospital rapid response team in the field of health in chemical, biological, radiation and nuclear accidents in Iran. This plan is for quick pre-hospital response to attend and intervene in the acute phase of these incidents. In order to increase the response capacity and capability of these teams, in addition to the general composition of the team, in order to improve the specialized preparation to deal with the health effects of these incidents, a specialized composition has also been provided. It is suggested; A separate team should be formed for each CBRN area based on the risk assessment of the offending areas of the country.
Materials and Methods: the current study is qualitative research with a content analysis approach; which was conducted using semi-structured in-depth interviews with 18 specialists and experts through purposive and snowball sampling. Sampling was done until data saturation. Thematic analysis method was used to analyze the data. The study aimed to extract effective factors in the formation of pre-hospital rapid response teams in the field of health in response to chemical, biological, radiation and nuclear accidents in Iran in 2022.
Results: The factors affecting the formation of the team were divided into 5 main classes and 5 subgroups including capacity building (Education, training), operational requirements (information and communication, command and control, emergency response operational plan, internal and external coordination), required resources (equipment, financing), team formation requirements (decontamination requirements, structural requirements) and team formation structure (general team composition, specialized team composition). The highest number of codes with 39% was related to the emergency response operational plan subcategory and the lowest number of codes with 8% was related to the equipment subcategory.
Conclusion: This study presented the design of the local pre-hospital rapid response team in the field of health in chemical, biological, radiation and nuclear accidents in Iran. This plan is for quick pre-hospital response to attend and intervene in the acute phase of these incidents. In order to increase the response capacity and capability of these teams, in addition to the general composition of the team, in order to improve the specialized preparation to deal with the health effects of these incidents, a specialized composition has also been provided. It is suggested; A separate team should be formed for each CBRN area based on the risk assessment of the offending areas of the country.
Shima Moradi, Fatemeh Rezaei Zadeh, Monireh Rahimkhani,
Volume 17, Issue 4 (10-2023)
Volume 17, Issue 4 (10-2023)
Abstract
Background and aim: This study aimed to determine the position of Iran in terms of scientific publications in Immunology and Microbiology, and also to identify the general status of science production and the patterns of publishing in the world, the Middle East, and Iran, analyze Iran scientific collaboration with the Middle East and the world, and explore the relationship between these indicators.
Materials and Methods: The study population contained 30622 Middle Eastern publications in Immunology and Microbiology from 2009 to 2018. Positioning the countries and exploring the relations of indicators, the exploratory factor analysis, and the correlation matrix were conducted using Scival.
Results: According to the findings Iran, Turkey, and Saudi Arabia were among the most powerful countries in the region in terms of publication, citation, regional, international, and overall scientific collaboration. As for regional positioning, the citations had the highest weight comparing to other indicators. Iran have the first rank in the indices of scientific production and citations with 43.63% and 33.76% respectively, third rank in the regional cooperation index with 43.63%, second rank in the extra-regional cooperation index with 23.56%, and also second rank in the total cooperation index with 22.12%.
Conclusion: The indicators were strongly connected togather; however, the citations and international scientific collaborations displayed the strongest amongst others. Despite Iran’s prominent position in both fields, the quality of the publication was lower than the regional and global average. This identified the most powerful and weak countries in the region in regards to scientific capacities in Immunology and Microbiology. Moreover, it reckoned that there was a strong relation between citations and scientific production in contrast with others.
Zohre Abbaszade Molaei, Aeen Mohammadi, Manijeh Hooshmandja,
Volume 18, Issue 5 (11-2024)
Volume 18, Issue 5 (11-2024)
Abstract
Background and Aim: With the advancement of information technology in the new century, changes are experienced in all aspects of life. One of the reflections of these changes in education is conducting exams electronically instead of paper-and-pencil examinations. The success of virtual education is not achievable without considering the students’ viewpoints towards it. This study aimed to investigate the attitude and performance of students in online exams and their relationship with academic achievement.
Materials and Methods: This research is a mixed-method study (qualitative-quantitative). First, all related articles published, between 2000 to 2022, were extracted from ERIC, PubMed, ScienceDirect databases, and the Google Scholar search engine. Then, the attitude and performance questionnaire was designed and validated based on the literature review results. All BSc and MSc. nursing and midwifery students of Sarivar Nassibeh School filled out the questionnaire. Two hundred and five questionnaires were analyzed with SPSS using descriptive (mean and standard deviation) and inferential (t-test) statistics.
Results: Based on a content analysis of 15 selected articles, the extracted components were structured into 12 items. A preliminary questionnaire was designed with 28 questions across these 12 extracted components. Face validity was assessed using expert opinions, and necessary revisions were made. Both the Content Validity Index (CVI) and Content Validity Ratio (CVR) coefficients were employed for content validity. The final questionnaire comprised 22 items using a five-point Likert scale, ranging from strongly agree (score 5) to strongly disagree (score 1), with an internal consistency of 0.69. Exploratory factor analysis revealed that the questionnaire has six factors: “validity and accuracy”, “technical problems”, “types of questions and announcing the results”, “technique and simplicity”, “motivation and anxiety”, and “speed and error recording” that explain 60.88 percent of the total variance. Correlation results indicated no relationship between students’ attitudes and performance toward electronic examinations and academic achievement (r = 0.055, P-value = 0.432). There was a significant difference between male and female groups, BSc. and MSc. nursing and midwifery students, and semester of study.
Conclusion: The tool for measuring students’ attitudes and performance towards electronic exams has acceptable validity and reliability. This tool can be used to assess online exams and improvement plans.
Materials and Methods: This research is a mixed-method study (qualitative-quantitative). First, all related articles published, between 2000 to 2022, were extracted from ERIC, PubMed, ScienceDirect databases, and the Google Scholar search engine. Then, the attitude and performance questionnaire was designed and validated based on the literature review results. All BSc and MSc. nursing and midwifery students of Sarivar Nassibeh School filled out the questionnaire. Two hundred and five questionnaires were analyzed with SPSS using descriptive (mean and standard deviation) and inferential (t-test) statistics.
Results: Based on a content analysis of 15 selected articles, the extracted components were structured into 12 items. A preliminary questionnaire was designed with 28 questions across these 12 extracted components. Face validity was assessed using expert opinions, and necessary revisions were made. Both the Content Validity Index (CVI) and Content Validity Ratio (CVR) coefficients were employed for content validity. The final questionnaire comprised 22 items using a five-point Likert scale, ranging from strongly agree (score 5) to strongly disagree (score 1), with an internal consistency of 0.69. Exploratory factor analysis revealed that the questionnaire has six factors: “validity and accuracy”, “technical problems”, “types of questions and announcing the results”, “technique and simplicity”, “motivation and anxiety”, and “speed and error recording” that explain 60.88 percent of the total variance. Correlation results indicated no relationship between students’ attitudes and performance toward electronic examinations and academic achievement (r = 0.055, P-value = 0.432). There was a significant difference between male and female groups, BSc. and MSc. nursing and midwifery students, and semester of study.
Conclusion: The tool for measuring students’ attitudes and performance towards electronic exams has acceptable validity and reliability. This tool can be used to assess online exams and improvement plans.
Shaqayeq Taghizadeh, Shahnam Sedigh Mroufi, Kimia Khonakdar, Atiyeh Sadat Sajadi, Alireza Babajani,
Volume 19, Issue 2 (7-2025)
Volume 19, Issue 2 (7-2025)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Learning style refers to each learner’s preferred approach to receiving, processing, and retaining information. It is considered one of the key factors influencing the effectiveness of teaching and learning processes. This study aimed to examine the relationship between learning styles based on the VARK model and gender, academic performance, and academic semester among undergraduate anesthesia students at Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS).
Materials and Methods: This descriptive-analytical (cross-sectional) study was conducted during the 2022–2023 academic year using a census sampling method on 65 undergraduate anesthesia students enrolled in the 2nd, 4th, and 6th semesters at IUMS. Data were collected using the validated VARK questionnaire with a Cronbach’s alpha reliability coefficient of 98.6 Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software, employing descriptive statistics (mean and frequency) and inferential tests (Chi-square and ANOVA). A significance level of P<0.05 was considered.
Results: Out of 60 fully completed questionnaires (32 female and 28 male students), 86.7% of students reported using a single (unimodal) learning style, while 13.3% used multiple (multimodal) styles. The predominant learning style was auditory (46.7%), followed by kinesthetic (23.3%), while visual style was the least frequent (5%). Among multimodal learners, the most common combination was auditory–kinesthetic (6.7%). In all academic semesters (2nd, 4th, and 6th), auditory style remained dominant, with no significant differences found across semesters (P=0.094). Similarly, no significant association was observed between learning styles and gender (P=0.229). ANOVA results indicated no significant relationship between learning styles and academic performance, with a mean GPA of 17.05 (P=0.345).
Conclusion: The findings indicated that most students preferred a single learning style, particularly the auditory modality, with no significant differences based on gender, academic semester, or academic performance. Identifying students’ learning styles and aligning teaching methods accordingly may enhance the teaching–learning process. It is recommended that learning style assessments be conducted at the beginning of academic programs and considered in curriculum planning. Further studies with larger and more diverse samples are suggested to evaluate the impact of learning style-based instruction on student satisfaction and academic achievement.
Materials and Methods: This descriptive-analytical (cross-sectional) study was conducted during the 2022–2023 academic year using a census sampling method on 65 undergraduate anesthesia students enrolled in the 2nd, 4th, and 6th semesters at IUMS. Data were collected using the validated VARK questionnaire with a Cronbach’s alpha reliability coefficient of 98.6 Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software, employing descriptive statistics (mean and frequency) and inferential tests (Chi-square and ANOVA). A significance level of P<0.05 was considered.
Results: Out of 60 fully completed questionnaires (32 female and 28 male students), 86.7% of students reported using a single (unimodal) learning style, while 13.3% used multiple (multimodal) styles. The predominant learning style was auditory (46.7%), followed by kinesthetic (23.3%), while visual style was the least frequent (5%). Among multimodal learners, the most common combination was auditory–kinesthetic (6.7%). In all academic semesters (2nd, 4th, and 6th), auditory style remained dominant, with no significant differences found across semesters (P=0.094). Similarly, no significant association was observed between learning styles and gender (P=0.229). ANOVA results indicated no significant relationship between learning styles and academic performance, with a mean GPA of 17.05 (P=0.345).
Conclusion: The findings indicated that most students preferred a single learning style, particularly the auditory modality, with no significant differences based on gender, academic semester, or academic performance. Identifying students’ learning styles and aligning teaching methods accordingly may enhance the teaching–learning process. It is recommended that learning style assessments be conducted at the beginning of academic programs and considered in curriculum planning. Further studies with larger and more diverse samples are suggested to evaluate the impact of learning style-based instruction on student satisfaction and academic achievement.
Atefeh Abbasi, Somayeh Nasiri, Sayyed Mostafa Mostafavi, Abbas Habibolahi,
Volume 19, Issue 4 (11-2025)
Volume 19, Issue 4 (11-2025)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Neonatal hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) is a clinical syndrome characterized by impaired brain function resulting from oxygen deprivation and reduced cerebral blood flow. Developing predictive models can serve as valuable tools for physicians in forecasting disease outcomes and facilitating early interventions. The present study was conducted with the aim of constructing a predictive model for neonatal hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy using data mining algorithms.
Materials and Methods: This applied study was conducted using a descriptive approach. In the first stage, the factors influencing the prediction of neonatal hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy were identified through expert surveys. In the second stage, data pertaining to 4,000 neonates were collected from the Iman system, available in the database of the Ministry of Health and Medical Education, during the years 2020–2021. Following preprocessing, a dataset comprising 3,962 records with 13 features was extracted. Subsequently, predictive models were developed using algorithms including artificial neural networks, decision tree variants, random forest, support vector machines, logistic regression, and Bayesian networks. Model construction was performed using the Python programming language within the Anaconda environment. Finally, performance evaluation and comparison were carried out using metrics such as accuracy, precision, specificity, F1-score, and the Area Under the Curve (AUC).
Results: The findings of the study revealed that the Area Under the Receiver Operating Characteristic Curve (AUROC) for models developed using logistic regression, artificial neural networks, random forest, Bayesian networks, support vector machines, and decision trees were 86%, 86%, 84%, 82%, 76%, and 74%, respectively. The highest performance was achieved by the logistic regression algorithm, with an accuracy of 81%, sensitivity of 85%, and specificity of 96%. The greatest sensitivity was observed in logistic regression, artificial neural networks, and support vector machines, whereas the naïve Bayesian algorithm demonstrated the lowest performance metrics. In the predictive model for hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy, the most influential feature was the first-minute Apgar score, while the least influential factor was delivery outside the hospital.
Conclusion: The findings of the present study indicated that the predictive model for neonatal hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy based on the logistic regression algorithm demonstrated superior performance. It is anticipated that the application of practical data-driven algorithms for neonates with hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy will play a crucial role in the rapid identification of the condition and the provision of appropriate treatment. Such approaches can enable healthcare professionals to act within the critical window of opportunity, thereby improving the quality of care, preventing disease progression, and reducing the severity of adverse outcomes.
Materials and Methods: This applied study was conducted using a descriptive approach. In the first stage, the factors influencing the prediction of neonatal hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy were identified through expert surveys. In the second stage, data pertaining to 4,000 neonates were collected from the Iman system, available in the database of the Ministry of Health and Medical Education, during the years 2020–2021. Following preprocessing, a dataset comprising 3,962 records with 13 features was extracted. Subsequently, predictive models were developed using algorithms including artificial neural networks, decision tree variants, random forest, support vector machines, logistic regression, and Bayesian networks. Model construction was performed using the Python programming language within the Anaconda environment. Finally, performance evaluation and comparison were carried out using metrics such as accuracy, precision, specificity, F1-score, and the Area Under the Curve (AUC).
Results: The findings of the study revealed that the Area Under the Receiver Operating Characteristic Curve (AUROC) for models developed using logistic regression, artificial neural networks, random forest, Bayesian networks, support vector machines, and decision trees were 86%, 86%, 84%, 82%, 76%, and 74%, respectively. The highest performance was achieved by the logistic regression algorithm, with an accuracy of 81%, sensitivity of 85%, and specificity of 96%. The greatest sensitivity was observed in logistic regression, artificial neural networks, and support vector machines, whereas the naïve Bayesian algorithm demonstrated the lowest performance metrics. In the predictive model for hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy, the most influential feature was the first-minute Apgar score, while the least influential factor was delivery outside the hospital.
Conclusion: The findings of the present study indicated that the predictive model for neonatal hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy based on the logistic regression algorithm demonstrated superior performance. It is anticipated that the application of practical data-driven algorithms for neonates with hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy will play a crucial role in the rapid identification of the condition and the provision of appropriate treatment. Such approaches can enable healthcare professionals to act within the critical window of opportunity, thereby improving the quality of care, preventing disease progression, and reducing the severity of adverse outcomes.
Abdolahad Nabiolahi, Nasser Keikha,
Volume 19, Issue 4 (11-2025)
Volume 19, Issue 4 (11-2025)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Point of Care Tests (POCTs) are a laboratory diagnostic system that can be performed at the patient care location and help diagnose diseases quickly. Due to the increase in population, the prevalence of contagious diseases, none access of society members to laboratories, the global need for the availability of modern diagnostic and health technologies at the place of patient care, the aim of research was to explore new aspects of the application of Point of Care Tests to patients as well as the process of developing these technologies in the field of healthcare.
Materials and Methods: A scoping review method were applied by determining the key words through medical subject headings and related articles, searching in the databases of Web of Science, Scopus and PubMed databases as well as Google Scholar, Google and Magiran and Scientific information database. Furthermore to preserve the variety of sources and articles, the criteria for entering the study were English-language articles and no time limit was applied.
Results: Most of the 17 related articles were reviews. The most common technologies in POCTs were lateral flow assays (LFA) that applied to diagnosis of Cryptococcus fungal infection, tuberculosis, hepatitis, legionella, malaria and covid-19, and nucleic acid amplification tests have helped to detect viruses and bacteria using DNA and RNA. From NAAT (Nucleic Acid Amplification Tests) based on microsialate, it can be referred to RT-PCR (Reverse transcription- polymerase chain reactio) and LAMP oop-Mediated- Isothermal Amplification (LAMP), where in recent years are widely used for detection of infectious diseases specially SARS-CoV-19. Additional basic diagnostic tools have focused on Small handheld, POCT devices with a monitoring device, cartridge, and other devices; whereas in the new generations, special focus were on quality assurance, microfluidics, Nano-biosensors and smart phones.
Conclusion: The analysis of published studies showed that the diagnostic tools of tests on POCTs are expanding and have been able to provide better clinical and economic results. In addition to the extensive use of two advanced types of lateral flow assays and nucleic acid amplification tests to diagnose tests at the patient’s bedside; Microfluidics, Nano biosensors and smart phones have also expanded. Quality assurance also requires the determination of accurate quality management procedures, policy programming and necessary policy formulation by officials to achieve reliable results for patient care.
Materials and Methods: A scoping review method were applied by determining the key words through medical subject headings and related articles, searching in the databases of Web of Science, Scopus and PubMed databases as well as Google Scholar, Google and Magiran and Scientific information database. Furthermore to preserve the variety of sources and articles, the criteria for entering the study were English-language articles and no time limit was applied.
Results: Most of the 17 related articles were reviews. The most common technologies in POCTs were lateral flow assays (LFA) that applied to diagnosis of Cryptococcus fungal infection, tuberculosis, hepatitis, legionella, malaria and covid-19, and nucleic acid amplification tests have helped to detect viruses and bacteria using DNA and RNA. From NAAT (Nucleic Acid Amplification Tests) based on microsialate, it can be referred to RT-PCR (Reverse transcription- polymerase chain reactio) and LAMP oop-Mediated- Isothermal Amplification (LAMP), where in recent years are widely used for detection of infectious diseases specially SARS-CoV-19. Additional basic diagnostic tools have focused on Small handheld, POCT devices with a monitoring device, cartridge, and other devices; whereas in the new generations, special focus were on quality assurance, microfluidics, Nano-biosensors and smart phones.
Conclusion: The analysis of published studies showed that the diagnostic tools of tests on POCTs are expanding and have been able to provide better clinical and economic results. In addition to the extensive use of two advanced types of lateral flow assays and nucleic acid amplification tests to diagnose tests at the patient’s bedside; Microfluidics, Nano biosensors and smart phones have also expanded. Quality assurance also requires the determination of accurate quality management procedures, policy programming and necessary policy formulation by officials to achieve reliable results for patient care.
Elham Maserat, Zeinab Mohammadzadeh, Zahra Mahmoudvand, Hasan Siamian, Pourya Taghizadeh, Azadeh Yazdanian,
Volume 19, Issue 5 (12-2025)
Volume 19, Issue 5 (12-2025)
Abstract
Background and Aim: As a pandemic, the COVID-19 epidemic has had widespread impacts on society and has highlighted the need for effective management through timely case detection, early isolation, and treatment. Web portals have emerged as an effective information technology intervention and a solution for crisis management. This study aims to review various web portals implemented in the context of COVID-19.
Materials and Methods: In 2025, a systematic review was conducted to identify articles related to the use of web portals in the COVID-19 context. Keywords such as information technology, portal, COVID-19, and university were used to search multiple databases and search engines including Scopus, PubMed, Science Direct, Web of Knowledge, Ovid Medline, and Google Scholar. Published texts from 2019 to 2025 were included in the search.
Results: Initially, 1,058 articles were retrieved, and after careful evaluation, 40 articles directly relevant to the research topic were selected for inclusion. The analysis identified several notable web portals deployed during the COVID-19 pandemic, including platforms such as COVIDome, Over COVID, interactive visualization portals, country-specific information portals, prediction-based systems, electronic portals for specific medical conditions, data platforms, drug repurposing portals, patient triage and scheduling tools, health mapping portals, telemetry capabilities, and epidemiology applications. The results showed that the highest number of related articles were published in 2020, primarily concentrated in the United States, Saudi Arabia, and Canada. In-depth reviews indicated that WPs such as COVIDome and MyChart significantly facilitated patient access to medical information and healthcare services. These portals not only provided timely information regarding vaccination and outbreaks but also played a crucial role in facilitating effective communication between patients and Healthcare Providers. Furthermore, the overall use of portals increased 10-fold during the pandemic, a trend that persisted afterward. Findings also highlight existing digital divides, as individuals with higher education and income levels benefited more from these portals.
Conclusion: Successful implementation of web portals requires proper management and planning, increased awareness among stakeholders including policymakers, healthcare professionals, and the general public, user training, comprehensive data integration, adherence to standards, and periodic evaluations. These measures are essential to optimize the effectiveness and utility of the portals.
Materials and Methods: In 2025, a systematic review was conducted to identify articles related to the use of web portals in the COVID-19 context. Keywords such as information technology, portal, COVID-19, and university were used to search multiple databases and search engines including Scopus, PubMed, Science Direct, Web of Knowledge, Ovid Medline, and Google Scholar. Published texts from 2019 to 2025 were included in the search.
Results: Initially, 1,058 articles were retrieved, and after careful evaluation, 40 articles directly relevant to the research topic were selected for inclusion. The analysis identified several notable web portals deployed during the COVID-19 pandemic, including platforms such as COVIDome, Over COVID, interactive visualization portals, country-specific information portals, prediction-based systems, electronic portals for specific medical conditions, data platforms, drug repurposing portals, patient triage and scheduling tools, health mapping portals, telemetry capabilities, and epidemiology applications. The results showed that the highest number of related articles were published in 2020, primarily concentrated in the United States, Saudi Arabia, and Canada. In-depth reviews indicated that WPs such as COVIDome and MyChart significantly facilitated patient access to medical information and healthcare services. These portals not only provided timely information regarding vaccination and outbreaks but also played a crucial role in facilitating effective communication between patients and Healthcare Providers. Furthermore, the overall use of portals increased 10-fold during the pandemic, a trend that persisted afterward. Findings also highlight existing digital divides, as individuals with higher education and income levels benefited more from these portals.
Conclusion: Successful implementation of web portals requires proper management and planning, increased awareness among stakeholders including policymakers, healthcare professionals, and the general public, user training, comprehensive data integration, adherence to standards, and periodic evaluations. These measures are essential to optimize the effectiveness and utility of the portals.
Saeideh Ayoubi, Saman Salemi, Mohammad Ali Sahraian, Termeh Tarjoman, Sharareh Eskandarieh,
Volume 19, Issue 6 (3-2026)
Volume 19, Issue 6 (3-2026)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Noncommunicable diseases are one of the most important public health challenges in the 21st century. Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) is a rare autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system and can lead to permanent disability in young people. This disease is important due to its economic impact and reduced quality of life, and it is essential to understand its economic and social factors on these subjects.
Materials and Methods: This study is a cross-sectional study based on the population of Iranian NMO patients. The instrument of this study was a researcher-made questionnaire in English from Harvard University, USA, which was translated into Persian and re-translated into English (translate- retranslate technique). The samples included NMO patients registered in the Iranian National NMO Registry System at Sina Hospital in Tehran, who completed information about their employment, income, and socioeconomic status via telephone interviews. The data were analyzed by SPSS software.
Results: The total number of samples was 70, with a mean age of 41.40 years with a standard deviation of 10.91 years. The majority of patients were women, with 71.4% (50 of 70) of patients being female and 28.6% (20 of 70) being male. Sixty-one-point four percent of patients (43 of 70) had lost their jobs due to NMO and 70% (49 of 70) had reduced their working hours. Also, 47.1% of patients (33 of 70) reported a decrease in their annual income. Thirty-two-point eight percent (23 of 70) had lost between 51% and 100% of their annual income due to this disease and 10% (7 of 70) of patients had no annual income. Eighteen point five percent (13 of 70) of patients no longer work outside home due to the occurrence of NMO disease. Overall, the effects of NMO on the reduction of employment, working hours and income of patients were significantly high.
Conclusion: The results showed that NMO has serious effects on the employment and income status of these patients in Iran and they need more economic and social support. Considering the physical disabilities caused by this disease and the reduced ability to work, NMO patients should receive special social and economic support from government.
Materials and Methods: This study is a cross-sectional study based on the population of Iranian NMO patients. The instrument of this study was a researcher-made questionnaire in English from Harvard University, USA, which was translated into Persian and re-translated into English (translate- retranslate technique). The samples included NMO patients registered in the Iranian National NMO Registry System at Sina Hospital in Tehran, who completed information about their employment, income, and socioeconomic status via telephone interviews. The data were analyzed by SPSS software.
Results: The total number of samples was 70, with a mean age of 41.40 years with a standard deviation of 10.91 years. The majority of patients were women, with 71.4% (50 of 70) of patients being female and 28.6% (20 of 70) being male. Sixty-one-point four percent of patients (43 of 70) had lost their jobs due to NMO and 70% (49 of 70) had reduced their working hours. Also, 47.1% of patients (33 of 70) reported a decrease in their annual income. Thirty-two-point eight percent (23 of 70) had lost between 51% and 100% of their annual income due to this disease and 10% (7 of 70) of patients had no annual income. Eighteen point five percent (13 of 70) of patients no longer work outside home due to the occurrence of NMO disease. Overall, the effects of NMO on the reduction of employment, working hours and income of patients were significantly high.
Conclusion: The results showed that NMO has serious effects on the employment and income status of these patients in Iran and they need more economic and social support. Considering the physical disabilities caused by this disease and the reduced ability to work, NMO patients should receive special social and economic support from government.
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