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Hamed Zamanian, Ahmad Shalbaf,
Volume 82, Issue 10 (1-2025)
Abstract

Background: Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) represents a growing global health burden, strongly associated with rising rates of obesity, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome. This study introduces a machine learning framework to precisely diagnose NAFLD, classify disease severity, and stratify risk using routine clinical data. Our model improves early detection and risk prediction, supporting evidence-based clinical decisions. Leveraging predictive analytics, this scalable approach identifies high-risk patients and enables personalized interventions. The data-driven strategy optimizes NAFLD management by extracting maximal value from standard healthcare records, delivering both clinical and operational advantages.
Methods: This study examined 181 NAFLD patients across disease stages. The dataset was compiled from February 2010 to January 2019 at Eheim University Hospital, comprising general volunteers who were diagnosed with or without fatty liver based on histopathological evaluation of liver biopsy samples. Forward selection and mutual information identified predictive features, applied in classification models (e.g., random forest) to assess steatosis severity. Explainable AI (XAI) improved model interpretability. Combining robust feature selection, machine learning, and XAI ensured accurate, clinically actionable NAFLD severity evaluation.
Results: The XGBoost classifier with forward feature selection attained a classification accuracy of 69.23%±5.5% for steatosis severity. Interpretability analysis highlighted age, Body Mass Index (BMI), High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL), Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL), A1c Hemoglobin (HbA1c), and glutamate pyruvate transaminase (GPT) as the most impactful variables across three severity classes. Furthermore, GPT, age, BMI, HDL, HbA1c, LDL, triglycerides, and cholesterol were critical to model performance, emphasizing their diagnostic significance in NAFLD progression. These findings suggest their utility in clinical assessments and risk stratification.
Conclusion: This study developed a machine learning model for accurate NAFLD diagnosis and severity stratification using routine clinical data. Accessible biomarkers reliably predicted disease progression, enabling gastroenterologists to facilitate early intervention. This cost-effective approach reduces healthcare costs while improving outcomes through precision medicine. Implementing such predictive tools in clinical practice could optimize resource allocation and enhance long-term NAFLD management. The framework supports timely diagnostics and targeted therapies, advancing patient-centered care.

Fatemeh Kiaee, Kiyana Bahani, Heshmat Shahi,
Volume 82, Issue 11 (2-2025)
Abstract

Background: Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection is the most common infection worldwide and results in chronic gastritis, and rarely gastric carcinoma. Chronic inflammation, which is a major engine of disease development. Is dominantly controlled by adaptive and humoral immunity. This study reveals the intricate IL-21 and IL-23 relationship in H.pylori associated diseases as well as inflammatory GI disorders, as the crtically govern the differentiation and activity of T helper 17 (TH17) cells in the gastric mucosa. Understanding these cytokines pathways is essential for comprehending the immune pathogenesis of H. pylori infection and its outcome.
Methods: A literature search was conducted in the PubMed database using the MESH keywords "Helicobacter pylori" "Interleukin 21," "Interleukin 23," and "gastric cancer" to identify relevant English-language studies. Articles that were reviews, case reports, or letters to the editor were excluded.
Results: IL-23 significantly exacerbates both intestinal and gastric inflammatory responses by stimulating T cells particularly Th17 cell subsets, through the mediation of STAT3 signaling pathways and reducing IL-10 production, while T cells lacking the IL-23 receptor promote Treg expansion and intestinal homeostasis. IL-21 is implicated in chronic inflammation of the gastric and intestinal mucosa, with elevated levels observed in ulcerative colitis patients, contributing to the recruitment of inflammatory cells, increased inflammation, and angiogenesis. This particular cytokine plays an essential role in the recruitment of inflammatory cells, the increase of tissue inflammation, and the promotion of pathological angiogenesis. Moreover, IL-21 exerts influence over B cell differentiation and the production of antibodies, establishing a connection to humoral immune responses within chronic inflammations.
Conclusion: CD4+ T helper 17 (Th17) cells exhibit both antimicrobial and pathogenic immune functions in the gastrointestinal environment. These processes are interconnected, as cytokines such as IL-21 and IL-23 are essential for Th17 cell maintenance and support humoral immune responses. A comprehensive understanding of the dynamic immunological interactions in H. pylori-related and inflammatory gastrointestinal diseases may facilitate the development of novel immunology-based therapeutic interventions.
 
Elham Rajaei , Forough Nokhostin, Maedeh Ekhtelat, Nasrin Masihpour, Maryam Dastoorpour,
Volume 82, Issue 11 (2-2025)
Abstract

Background: Autoimmune inflammatory diseases, which are often associated with severe and chronic complications, affect approximately 7.6-9.4% of world's population.  The present study was conducted with the aim of investigating the frequency of ocular side effects of anti-TNF-α drugs in patients with rheumatic diseases.
Methods: In this analytical epidemiological study, 122 patients with rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis who were treated with TNF-α inhibitory drugs (including Infliximab, Adalimumab and Etanercept) referred to Golestan Hospital of Ahvaz, Iran, in 2019-2022 were examined. Ocular complications including anterior uveitis, macular edema, anterior ischemic optic neuropathy, diplopia with paired neurological involvement, anterior uveitis with diplopia and keratitis sicca were evaluated by an ophthalmologist after six months of treatment with TNF-α inhibitory drugs. Infliximab was used on day zero, week two and four, and then every 6 to 8 weeks with a dose of 3 to 5 per kilogram of body weight. Adalimumab dosage was 40 mg every other week and Etanercept was taken at a dose of 50 mg weekly.
Results: From 122 patients, 59 (48.36%) and 36 (29.51%) had rheumatoid arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis, respectively. Among 7.38% of reported ocular complications, anterior uveitis was the most common complication (3.28%). Type of anti-TNF-α drug had no significant correlation with the occurrence of ocular complications and eye complications were mainly observed in patients who used etanercept, but there was no significant difference compared to the other two drugs (P=0.1). The mean duration of disease in patients with and without eye complications was 5.47±4.13 and 3.22±2.58 years, respectively (P=0.03). No significant relationship was observed between the duration of anti-TNF-α drugs use and eye complications (P=0.66).
Conclusion: Given the higher incidence of ocular complications in patients taking etanercept, as well as the significant association between the duration of the disease and the occurrence of ocular complications, monitoring long-term treatment and follow-up of rheumatic patients taking anti-TNF-α drugs is of great importance.

 
Ramyar Rahimi Darehbagh , Sara Moradian , Afshin Hajihasanzadeh, Masood Moradi, Farhang Safar Nejhad ,
Volume 82, Issue 11 (2-2025)
Abstract

Background: Acute pancreatitis is a common and challenging disease that can develop local and systemic complications. It is divided into biliary and non-biliary pancreatitis, based on ultrasonographic findings. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical and paraclinical findings of patients with acute pancreatitis and related factor.
Methods: This cross-sectional study included all patients hospitalized with a diagnosis of acute pancreatitis in Besat and Towhid hospitals of Sanandaj from March 2016 to March 2018. All patients admitted with a confirmed diagnosis of acute pancreatitis during the mentioned period were enrolled. Inclusion criteria were a definitive diagnosis of acute pancreatitis based on clinical features (characteristic abdominal pain), laboratory findings (serum amylase or lipase elevated more than three times the normal level), and/or imaging evidence. Patients with chronic underlying conditions such as diabetes, chronic renal or hepatic failure, advanced cardiac disease, or neoplasms were excluded to reduce confounding effects.
Results: Of the 150 patients, 89 were female (59.33%), and 61 were male (40.67%). The mean age of the patients was 53.11 years old. 62% of patients had biliary pancreatitis, and 38% had non-biliary. The prevalence of alcoholic pancreatitis in the population was 5.33%. The age of people with biliary pancreatitis was more than non-biliary. According to Ranson's criteria, 6% of patients had severe acute pancreatitis, all of whom were over 60.
Conclusion: Acute pancreatitis was more prevalent among women, particularly in the fifth decade of life, with gallstones being the leading cause. Patients with biliary pancreatitis were significantly older, and advanced age was associated with increased disease severity. Moreover, blood glucose, AST, and LDH were significantly higher in severe cases. These findings highlight the importance of early diagnosis, accurate severity assessment, and special attention to elderly patients and those with biliary pancreatitis to reduce complications and improve clinical outcomes.

Mahmoud Khodabandeh, Mohammadreza Abdolsalehi , Mojtaba Gorji,
Volume 82, Issue 11 (2-2025)
Abstract

Background: Congenital tuberculosis is a rare but serious disease in neonates and infants that often presents with nonspecific respiratory symptoms. Pulmonary involvement in tuberculosis can have similar manifestations to bacterial pneumonia with common microorganisms. In case of failure to respond to treatment in pneumonia,  tuberculosis infection should be considered. The aim of this study was to present a two-month-old infant suspected of bacterial pneumonia, who was ultimately diagnosed with tuberculosis.
Case Presentation: This case report describes a two-month-old infant diagnosed with tuberculosis who presented to the emergency department with severe respiratory distress.  Despite repeated hospitalizations and initial antibiotic therapy, the patient's symptoms did not improve and he was eventually referred to the Children's Medical Center. Chest radiography showed diffuse reticular opacities, alveolar opacities in the lower lobe of the right lung, and parahilar opacities in the left lung. Initial laboratory tests included elevated CRP and ESR levels, elevated white blood cell count, thrombocytosis, and abnormal arterial blood gases. Despite three negative gastric aspirate samples for tuberculosis, bronchoscopy was performed and a Bronchoalveolar Lavage (BAL) sample was sent for Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) testing for Mycobacterium tuberculosis, which was positive, confirming the diagnosis of tuberculosis. Careful evaluation of the parents revealed that although they had no respiratory symptoms, the mother had imaging evidence of tuberculosis, and her AFB test was positive. The patient showed significant clinical improvement after starting anti-tuberculosis therapy. A six-month follow-up confirmed complete recovery.
Conclusion: In infants with recurrent pneumonia and failure to respond to initial treatments, tuberculosis should be considered as a possible diagnosis.

Fatemeh Habibollahi, Ghazaleh Eslamian, Kiana Hasibi , Sepehr Khoshbaf Khiabanian , Bentolhosna Dehghan Nayeri , Aref Adeli Mosabbeb ,
Volume 82, Issue 12 (3-2025)
Abstract

Background: Infertility is defined as the failure to achieve pregnancy after one year or more of regular unprotected sexual intercourse. Assisted reproductive technologies (ART) represent a key therapeutic approach for infertile couples. Bisphenol-A (BPA), a compound found in plastic polymer products, has been associated with increased infertility risk. This systematic review addresses whether BPA affects ART outcomes.
Methods: A comprehensive and systematic literature search was conducted across PubMed, Google Scholar, Web of Science, and Scopus up to December 2024 without any language or time restrictions. The search strategy combined relevant keywords and medical subject headings such as “bisphenol A,” “infertility,” “assisted reproductive technology,” “in vitro fertilization,” and “embryo implantation.” All human studies assessing the relationship between BPA exposure and ART outcomes were considered. After removing duplicates and screening titles and abstracts, 23 studies that met the inclusion criteria were reviewed in detail. The selected studies included cross-sectional and prospective cohort designs, and data on sample size, BPA measurement methods, and reproductive endpoints were extracted for qualitative synthesis.
Results: The reviewed studies consistently indicate that exposure to BPA is associated with adverse reproductive outcomes, particularly in women undergoing IVF treatment. Evidence suggests that higher BPA levels correlate with fewer retrieved oocytes, reduced oocyte maturation rates, and impaired ovarian response to hormonal stimulation. Several studies also observed reduced estradiol concentrations and lower fertilization and cleavage rates, leading to decreased implantation success and clinical pregnancy rates. In addition, diminished ovarian reserve markers, such as anti-Müllerian hormone and antral follicle count, have been negatively influenced by BPA exposure. Male factors were also affected, with reports of decreased sperm motility, abnormal morphology, and increased DNA fragmentation, which could compromise embryo quality and early development. Variability in study methodologies, small sample sizes, and differences in BPA detection techniques, however, make direct comparison challenging.
Conclusion: Current evidence supports an inverse association between BPA exposure and fertility outcomes, but further prospective studies with larger sample sizes and more precise measurement methods are needed.

Ramyar Rahimi Darehbagh , Ebrahim Khajeh, Daem Roshani , Farhang Safarnejhad,
Volume 82, Issue 12 (3-2025)
Abstract

Background: Surgical site infections (SSIs) represent one of the most common and significant complications following surgical interventions. These infections not only prolong hospital stay and recovery but also impose a considerable economic burden on healthcare systems and patients. Reducing the risk of SSIs is therefore a major focus of perioperative care, and several strategies have been proposed to minimize their occurrence. One of the most widely practiced preventive measures is preoperative skin antisepsis, aimed at lowering the microbial load at the surgical site. Among available antiseptics, chlorhexidine has been shown to have broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity and sustained effectiveness. This study was designed to evaluate the effect of preoperative chlorhexidine showers on the incidence of SSIs in patients undergoing elective inguinal hernia surgery.
Methods: A randomized clinical trial was carried out in 2019 at Kowsar Hospital, Sanandaj. A total of 300 patients scheduled for elective inguinal hernia repair were enrolled and randomly assigned into three groups of 100 participants each. The intervention group was instructed to take a shower with 4% chlorhexidine solution on the night before surgery. Control group 1 took a routine bath using regular detergents, while control group 2 did not bathe prior to the operation. All patients were monitored for the occurrence of superficial SSIs for up to 30 days postoperatively.
Results: Among the 300 patients included in the study, 12 cases (4%) of superficial SSIs were documented. The distribution of infections varied significantly across the groups: one case in the chlorhexidine group, three cases in the regular detergent group, and eight cases in the group that did not shower. Statistical analysis confirmed that the difference in infection rates among the groups was significant (P=0.034).
Conclusion: The findings of this clinical trial demonstrate that preoperative showers with 4% chlorhexidine solution are effective in reducing the incidence of SSIs in patients undergoing elective inguinal hernia surgery. Implementing this simple, low-cost intervention may therefore be a valuable strategy in routine surgical practice to enhance patient outcomes and reduce postoperative complications.
 
Morteza Talebi Doluee , Mohsen Ramzanzadeh, Majid Shahbazi, Mahdi Foroughian,
Volume 83, Issue 1 (4-2025)
Abstract

Background: Ankle sprain is one of the most common sports injuries and accounts for 10 to 30 percent of sports injuries, especially in athletes. This injury can lead to pain, imbalance, and movement restriction, and therefore has a significant impact on athletes' performance. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the effect of dry needling on tissue repair of ligamentous injury in the acute phase of ankle sprain.
Methods: This double-blind clinical trial study was conducted on 52 patients with ankle sprains at Imam Reza Hospital in 2023. Patients were divided into two groups: control and intervention. The control group received conventional treatment including medication and splints, while the intervention group received dry needling in addition to conventional treatments. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 21 software and descriptive statistics and inferential statistical tests at a significance level of P<0.05.
Results: The results showed that the intervention group showed significant improvement in pain (P=0.002), activities of daily living (P<0.001), sports activities (P<0.001), plantar flexion (P=0.027), dorsiflexion (P=0.003), inversion (P=0.012), and edema (P=0.005) compared to the control group. However, there was no significant difference in symptom severity (P=0.752) and quality of life (P=0.348) between the two groups. Overall patient change analysis showed that most patients in the intervention group improved, while only 7.7% in the control group improved.
Conclusion:  A combination of splinting, medication, and dry needling can be effective in improving pain, daily activities, exercise and recreation, range of motion, and edema in patients with ankle sprains. These findings can provide a basis for implementing new treatment protocols for the management of ankle sprains in athletes and other injured patients. It is recommended that further studies be conducted on the long-term effects of dry needling and other therapeutic interventions to further identify their potential to accelerate the recovery process in patients.
 

Reza Sahraei, Anahita Haghjoo , Hasan Zabetian, Mansour Deylami, Rahil Haghjoo, Fatemeh Khadempir, Navid Kalani ,
Volume 83, Issue 1 (4-2025)
Abstract

Background: Spinal anesthesia is a common method for elective cesarean sections; however, complications such as shivering and nausea may affect postoperative recovery quality. Bupivacaine is a standard drug used in this procedure, but its combination with opioids like sufentanil may have beneficial effects in reducing these complications. This study aimed to compare the incidence of shivering and nausea in women undergoing elective cesarean section who received either bupivacaine alone or a bupivacaine-sufentanil combination.
Methods: The present study was a double-blind randomized clinical trial conducted over a 6-month period from April 2021 to October 2021 on 30 patients undergoing elective cesarean section with spinal anesthesia at Motahari Hospital in Jahrom city. Patients were randomly assigned using a random number table into two groups: bupivacaine alone and bupivacaine-sufentanil combination. The frequency of nausea, vomiting, and shivering was recorded at different time points: before spinal anesthesia, after spinal anesthesia, 3 minutes before delivery, immediately after delivery, at 15, 30, and 45 minutes, upon recovery room admission, and upon discharge from recovery. The data analysis was performed using descriptive statistics indicators (frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation) and inferential statistical tests (t-test, Mann-Whitney, chi-square and Friedman) using SPSS software version 21. A significance level of p < 0.05 was considered.
Results: In the bupivacaine-sufentanil group, the highest frequency of shivering occurred at 30 minutes post-spinal anesthesia (20%) and upon recovery room admission (26.7%). In the bupivacaine-alone group, the highest frequency was observed upon recovery room admission (33.3%) and at discharge from recovery (26.7%). The highest nausea frequency was 33.3% in the bupivacaine-sufentanil group and 40% in the bupivacaine group at 3 minutes before delivery. However, no statistically significant difference was found between the two groups at different time points.
Conclusion: The present study showed that adding low-dose sufentanil to bupivacaine in spinal anesthesia protocols, while potentially having minor clinical effects on certain complications, did not lead to a significant difference in the incidence of shivering and nausea. Therefore, for more precise clinical decision-making regarding drug combinations in regional anesthesia, further studies with larger sample sizes and different drug dosages are recommended.

Pourya Adibi , Somayeh Mehrpour, Reza Sahraei , Samira Zanbagh, Majid Vatankhah, Mehrdad Malekshoar, Mansour Deylami, Bibi Mona Razavi, Tayyebeh Zarei ,
Volume 83, Issue 2 (5-2025)
Abstract

Background: Today, cesarean section is one of the most common surgeries performed in different countries. Shivering after surgery is one of the common complications of spinal anesthesia in cesarean surgery. Many drugs have been investigated to prevent or reduce shivering, but the ideal drug has not yet been finally approved. The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of dexmedetomidine in preventing shivering after cesarean section surgery under spinal anesthesia in the form of a systematic review.
Methods: In this systematic review, the Persian keywords "dexmedetomidine", "spinal anesthesia", "caesarean" and dexmedetomidine" and the English keywords dexmedetomidine", "Caesarean section", "Spinal Anesthesia" "Dexmedetomidine and "C-Section" in databases PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), Web of Science, Clinical Trials.gov and Scopus, SID, Magiran, Medlib and Google Scholar search engine, without time limit Done. Data extraction was performed independently by two authors. Study name, year of study, country, study groups, and incidence of shivering were extracted from the studies. Our primary outcome was the severity of shivering in patients. All disagreements in data extraction were resolved through discussion between the reviewers or, if not possible, by a third reviewer. Data were entered into an Excel file.
Results: In this systematic review, 19 studies were examined. The total number of patients included in the study was 2001 patients. The study range was from 2016 to 2022. The age group of most patients was between 18-45. The drugs studied in combination with dexmedetomidine in the studies included: pethidine, dexamethasone, nalbuphine, ondansetron, and morphine. The most studied drugs were pethidine and dexamethasone in three studies. In 13 studies, dexmedetomidine was more effective in controlling shivering than the other groups studied. Also, in five studies, dexmedetomidine, along with three drugs: pethidine, dexamethasone, and ondansetron, had similar effects in controlling shivering in patients. In one study, dexmedetomidine produced less anti-tremor effects than nalbuphine.
Conclusion: In the review of the studies, the results indicated that dexmedomedin is effective in preventing post-operative shivering in patients undergoing caesarean section. Therefore, it seems that the use of dexmedetomidine to prevent shivering after surgery is useful in these patients.

Mahasti Emami Hamzehkolaee , Amirhesam Alirezaei, Marjan Moudi, Sepide Veysi , Masoumeh Asgharpour,
Volume 83, Issue 2 (5-2025)
Abstract

Background: Hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ) is widely used for hypertension, but electrolyte disorders-especially hyponatremia remain major safety concerns. Limited regional data on its prevalence, timing, and determinants may undermine patient safety. This retrospective study evaluated risk factors for HCTZ-associated hyponatremia in hospitalized adults with hypertension and identified predictors of its severity.
Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on 217 patients hospitalized at Ayatollah Rouhani Hospital in Babol (2019-2021). Eligible participants were aged ≥18 years and had received HCTZ for at least seven consecutive days. Patients with baseline hyponatremia, concurrent use of drugs independently causing hyponatremia, or incomplete laboratory data were excluded. Demographic, clinical, medication, and biochemical variables were abstracted from medical records. Hyponatremia was defined as serum sodium <135 mmol/L and categorized as mild (130-134), moderate (125-129), or severe (<125). Predictors of occurrence were estimated with multivariable logistic regression; onset timing was assessed using a Cox proportional hazards model; and severity determinants were examined through multinomial logistic regression. Statistical significance was set at P<0.05.
Results: Hyponatremia occurred in 32.7% (71.217) of patients, most frequently within the early weeks of HCTZ treatment. Among affected individuals, 49.3% had mild, 31.0% moderate, and 19.7% severe hyponatremia. Adjusted analyses showed that older age, concurrent nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use, shorter HCTZ duration, and lower serum potassium and uric acid independently increased hyponatremia risk, while HCTZ dose and sex were nonsignificant. In the Cox model, older age and lower potassium and uric acid predicted earlier onset. Patients with hyponatremia more often presented with weakness, headache, altered consciousness, and seizures. Baseline glucose, creatinine, and most comorbidities were not independently associated with risk or timing.
Conclusion: HCTZ-related hyponatremia was common and typically emerged soon after initiation. Advanced age, NSAID co-administration, brief exposure, and reduced potassium and uric acid were practical, readily measurable markers associated with both occurrence and earlier onset. Routine early and repeated electrolyte monitoring particularly in older adults and patients receiving NSAIDs- together with patient education on warning symptoms is recommended. These findings highlight key predictors for targeted surveillance and prevention in similar clinical contexts.

Mohammad Darayesh,
Volume 83, Issue 2 (5-2025)
Abstract

Background: Acne is a common adolescent skin disorder presenting with papules, pustules, and cysts on the face, chest, and back, which may persist into adulthood with varying severity. Dexpanthanol (bepacto) is an effective treatment for acne, administered both topically and intramuscularly. This study aimed to compare the efficacy of topical bepacto ointment versus intramuscular bepacto injections for mild to moderate acne.
Methods: This study was a randomized, controlled, split-face clinical trial. Patients were randomly divided into two groups: one receiving weekly intramuscular bepacto ampoule injections and the other applying topical bepacto ointment twice daily. The treatment protocol consisted of an initial one-month phase followed by a two-month continuation phase. Following acne diagnosis, patients were classified into three severity categories (mild, moderate and severe) according to Lehman's criteria. Data collection instruments for this study included a demographic information questionnaire and the Acne-QOL (Acne Quality of Life) questionnaire.
Results: The Mann-Whitney U test results indicated no statistically significant differences in quality-of-life outcomes between the topical and intramuscular treatment groups (P>0.05). Subsequent Friedman test analysis revealed distinct treatment response patterns: among 18-24-year-old patients with mild baseline acne severity, both treatment groups maintained mild severity at 2-week and 4-week follow-ups, with significant improvement achieved by week six. However, in moderate acne cases within the same age group, the topical treatment group showed progressive improvement - maintaining moderate severity at two weeks, progressing to mild by four weeks, and achieving complete resolution by week six. In contrast, the intramuscular group with moderate acne demonstrated persistent moderate severity at both 2-week and 4-week follow-ups, with only partial improvement to mild severity by week 6 and no complete resolution observed during the study period. These findings suggest that while both administration routes similarly affected quality of life measures, topical dexpanthanol demonstrated superior efficacy and faster response times, particularly in cases of moderate acne severity among young adult patients.
Conclusion: Intramuscular dexpanthanol may optimize treatment initiation timing and reduce costs in mild-to-moderate acne management.

Hossein Akhavan, Fatemeh Rezaei,
Volume 83, Issue 3 (6-2025)
Abstract

Background: An Electrocardiogram is a non-invasive method for receiving heart signals. Despite advances in imaging methods, the electrocardiogram still plays an important role remains a vital tool in the diagnosis of heart diseases. Analysis of electrocardiogram signals plays an important role in the early detection of heart diseases such as arrhythmias and heart attacks. Today, with the advancement of science and technology, computer methods have received more and more attention from doctors. In this study, machine learning methods were used to classify normal and abnormal heartbeats.
Methods: The data under study were extracted from a dataset called Heartbeat published on the Kaggle website. This dataset includes samples of audio ECG signals that are divided into healthy and unhealthy categories. First, the data were preprocessed and normalized to prepare them for input into the model. Then, temporal and frequency features were extracted from the signals. Next, a hybrid model consisting of one-dimensional convolutional layers was designed and trained. Also, by using the early stopping method, overfitting was prevented and the stability of the model was improved.
Results: In this study, it was shown that by using deep learning, especially using CNN and 1D Conv, an accuracy of 0.99% and a loss of 0.0350 for test data in detecting normal and abnormal heartbeats can be achieved. This model has the ability to analyze complex structures and temporal dynamics of ECG signals and is able to detect patterns related to cardiac disorders.
Conclusion: Today, the electrocardiogram has received more attention than ever before. Appropriate selection of the model, data standardization, and a qualitative range of data are among the factors of high accuracy in this study. This study can be an effective step in the development of intelligent systems for diagnosing cardiac disorders and can be used in medical applications, especially in the field of continuous patient monitoring.

 
Mahsa Hojjati, Mahshid Rashidi, Ali Asghar Khaleghi, Maryam Nasirian, Seyed Hassan Faghihi, Masoud Mohammadi,
Volume 83, Issue 3 (6-2025)
Abstract

Background: Trichomonas vaginalis is one of the main causes of vaginitis and cervical inflammation worldwide. Almost half of sexually transmitted and curable diseases worldwide can be assessed through the examination of this disease, so the aim of this study is to determine the prevalence of trichomoniasis in Iranian women.
Methods: This study is a review of the SID, PubMed, Science Direct, and Google Scholar databases, conducted up to September 2023. The extracted data were analyzed using CMA software (version 2). A search of articles in Science Direct, SID, PubMed, and Google Scholar databases was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA statement criteria, including systematic search, screening of articles, and selection of appropriate studies. The words used for the search and final review in this systematic review were determined based on MESH Terms in the PubMed database. These keywords that were used and selected in this study were in English and Persian. The final information obtained from the studies was reviewed and analyzed using the Comprehensive Meta-analysis (CMA, Version 2) software, and finally the heterogeneity of the studies was examined with the I2 test.
Results:  Based on the search for studies and their screening, 22 studies were finally included in the meta-analysis. This study included a sample size of 49,990 Iranian women who were included in the study. In the heterogeneity analysis based on the studies obtained, the heterogeneity was 99.7. Due to the heterogeneity of the studies, the random effects method was used for the final analysis. The prevalence of Trichomonas vaginalis in Iranian women was reported to be 9.3 (95% CI: 4.6-18) based on the 22 final studies and meta-analysis. The publication bias analysis indicated the absence of bias in the studies (p: 0.175).
Conclusion:  Based on the prevalence report in the meta-analysis, a relatively high prevalence was reported in Iranian women, and this situation requires more awareness raising through health centers to families, as well as care and screening of women in these centers and also in obstetric centers.
 
Maryam Bahadur, Zahra Momeni,
Volume 83, Issue 3 (6-2025)
Abstract

Background: Radiotherapy is one modalities for common cancers like cervical and endometrial. Although radiation therapy has side effects such as digestive problems and radiation-induced changes in the sacrum. At the current article, the factors that evaluate the side effects of radiation therapy for two energies of 6 and 15 megavoltage were compared.
Methods: For this study, the data of 50 female patients with an average age of 58.5 years with cervical and endometrial cancers were used. For each patient, the BOX treatment plan was carried out with Eclipse software for two energies, 6 and 15 MV, with total prescribed dose of 50 Gy. Along with factors such as dose homogeneity, sacrum bone dose, and maximum rectal dose were compared.
Results: The comparison reveals that the maximum rectal dose for 6 MV energy was significantly (Pvalue=0.001) more than those planed with 15 MV.
For the volume of the sacrum that receives a dose of 40 Gy (V_40), it was seen that for 6MV (99.86±0.42) energy, were significantly more than the treatment plan with 15 MV energy (99.83±0.48) (Pvalue=0.026). According to the homogeneity index for this study, a statistically significant difference was seen for the value obtained from HI2 and HI3 for 6 MV compared to 15 MV Pvalue<0.001, PValue=0.008 respectively which the treatment plans performed with 15 MV energy were more homogeneous than MV 6 energy.
Conclusion: In this article, it was observed that the use of low energies for the treatment of pelvic cancers, enhances the percentage of the maximum dose reached to healthy organs, which causes patients to suffer complications Therefore, it is recommended to use high energy, such as 15 MV, to reduce the side effects of radiotherapy, and also it has been suggested that patients should be followed up for 3 to 5 years in order to obtain more reliable information about the sacrum dose.

Saeed Kafrashi, Hamidreza Norouzi, Malihe Safari,
Volume 83, Issue 3 (6-2025)
Abstract

Background: In this study, Botox method is compared with sleeve gastrectomy as one of the endoscopic methods in the treatment of obesity for patients who are not effective in lifestyle and drug modification methods and do not have the interest or necessary conditions for bariatric surgery.
Methods: This Cross-sectional study was conducted in eligible patients who were outpatients at the gastroenterology clinics of Amir al-Momenin Hospital, Arak, in June 2014 for one year in the gastroenterology clinic after obtaining informed consent, demographic information, and anthropometric measurements. After 12 weeks, patients in both groups were visited again. In patients in group A (Botox group), endoscopy was performed by an experienced gastroenterologist under sedation after a 10-hour fast, and in patients in group B (sleeve gastrectomy) under general anesthesia, a partial and longitudinal gastrectomy was performed. The BAROS questionnaire was used to assess the quality of life of patients.
Results: The mean age of the subjects in the endoscopic botulinum neurotoxin group was 30.88±11.89 years and the sleeve gastrectomy group was 29.88±11.06 years. In this study, 12 subjects (24.0%) were male and 38 subjects (76%) were female. There was a significant difference in the mean body mass index and weight at four measurements in the two study groups (endoscopic botulinum neurotoxin and sleeve gastrectomy). There was no statistically significant difference in the mean blood pressure, laboratory results, and mean quality of life in the study groups.
Conclusion: Endoscopic botulinum injection in the stomach is an effective and safe method for short-term weight loss, but its long-term effect on weight and the occurrence of complications or metabolic effects requires long-term follow-up.
 

Javad Hashemi, Hoseinali Soltani , Ali Esmaeili , Fatemeh Roshanravan Yazdi , Seyed Hassan Seyed Sharifi ,
Volume 83, Issue 4 (7-2025)
Abstract

Background: Postoperative pain is a significant concern after cholecystectomy. Given the role of vitamin D in pain management, this study investigated the correlation between preoperative vitamin D levels and postoperative pain severity in patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy, with the aim of improving pain management and enhancing postoperative care.
Methods: This prospective observational study (January 2024- February 2025) was conducted on 87 patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy at Imam Ali Hospital of Bojnurd. Inclusion criteria were age 18-45, non-urgent laparoscopic cholecystectomy, and good physical status. Exclusion criteria were chronic pain, regular analgesic use, known psychiatric or neurological disease or treatment, substance abuse, emergency cholecystectomy, or conversion to open surgery. Participants fasted for 12 hours preoperatively. All received 1 g (IV) ceftriaxone one hour before and 12 hours after surgery. Anesthesia was induced with propofol and fentanyl and maintained with isoflurane, nitrous oxide, or oxygen. Anesthesia and surgical technique were standardized, with any deviations recorded. We collected demographic data and extracted perioperative details from records and interviews. Pre-induction venous blood samples were collected, processed, and stored at -20°C. Serum vitamin D concentrations were quantified via ELISA method, and participants were subsequently stratified into two groups based on these measurements. Postoperative pain was assessed on a Visual Analog Scale (0-10) at 6, 12, 18, and 24 hours. Analgesic regimens followed standard protocol under physician supervision and were unaffected by the study.
Results: Lower serum vitamin D levels were associated with higher postoperative pain scores (P<0.01), with this relationship being significant at 6, 12, and 18 hours postoperatively (P<0.01, P<0.01, and P<0.05, respectively). Insufficient vitamin D levels and female gender were also independent risk factors for acute pain after laparoscopic cholecystectomy (P<0.01).
Conclusion: Based on the results of the present study, preoperative vitamin D deficiency is associated with increased postoperative acute pain scores in patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy, especially in women. These findings may be useful for postoperative pain management in patients with vitamin D deficiency.
 
Yaser Sharafi, Mohammad Talebpour, Khosro Najari,
Volume 83, Issue 5 (8-2025)
Abstract

Background: Dumping syndrome is a common complication after bariatric surgery and can adversely affect patients’ quality of life, particularly in those with diabetes. Although gastric bypass has traditionally been associated with a higher risk of dumping syndrome, evidence comparing its frequency with sleeve gastrectomy remains inconclusive. This study aimed to compare the frequency of dumping syndrome following these two procedures in patients with morbid obesity.
Methods: This prospective cohort study was conducted from April 2021 to July 2022 at Sina Hospital in Tehran. A total of 90 patients with morbid obesity who met the indications for bariatric surgery were not randomly assigned to two treatment groups: gastric bypass (n = 45) and sleeve gastrectomy (n = 45). Baseline assessments included medical history, physical examination, review of medical records, and necessary specialist consultations (including endocrinology and cardiology). All patients’ data were recorded in the Sina Bariatric Surgery Registry Database. Following surgery, patients received standard postoperative care and were evaluated for symptoms of dumping syndrome at one and three months postoperatively using the validated Sigstad questionnaire. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS software.
Results: The results showed no statistically significant differences between the two groups in terms of age group, gender, excess weight, preoperative BMI, final BMI, and history of diabetes prior to surgery (P-value > 0.05). The final weight was significantly higher in the sleeve gastrectomy group (P-value = 0.033). There were no significant differences in the frequency of early and late dumping syndrome related to the consumption of sweets and other foods between the two groups at the first and third postoperative months (P-value > 0.05). Early dumping syndrome following the consumption of sweets and bread was significantly more frequent among diabetic patients (P-value = 0.037 and P-value = 0.045, respectively).
Conclusion:  The prevalence of dumping syndrome was similar in both sleeve and bypass groups. Weight loss over time was significant (P < 0.001) and did not differ between groups (P = 0.211). The syndrome was significantly more common in diabetic patients, highlighting the importance of careful postoperative care and dietary guidance.

Ehsan Nasirai, Mehdi Bakhshaee, Bashir Rasoulian, Daryoush Hamidi Alamdari, Kiana Ketabi, Imaneh Roshanzamir,
Volume 83, Issue 5 (8-2025)
Abstract

Background: To improve hemostasis and optimize the healing process, autologous fibrin sealant (FS) has been introduced in selected cases. However, the clinical benefits of FS in sinonasal surgery remain controversial and require further evaluation. This study aimed to investigate the effects of autologous FS on hemostasis, mucosal healing, postoperative clinical outcomes, and recurrence in patients undergoing bilateral FESS, compared with normal saline as the control.
Methods: This randomized clinical trial included 32 patients who underwent bilateral FESS at Ghaem and Imam Reza University Hospitals in Mashhad, Iran, between 2019 and 2021. For each patient, autologous FS was applied to one nasal cavity, while the contralateral cavity received normal saline. Postoperative outcomes including bleeding, crusting, adhesion formation, and infection were assessed at 1 week, 1 month, and 3 months after surgery. In addition, sinonasal symptom burden and endoscopic findings were evaluated using the Sinonasal Outcome Test (SNOT-22) and the Lund-Kennedy endoscopic score, respectively, both recorded preoperatively and three months postoperatively.
Results: Application of autologous FS significantly reduced immediate postoperative bleeding, and no further bleeding events were noted during follow-up. Pain severity was comparable between the two sides. No statistically significant differences were observed in crust formation, adhesion, infection, recurrence, or changes in Lund-Kennedy scores between the FS and control sides (p=0.08, p=0.8, p=0.17, and p=0.14, respectively).
Conclusion: Autologous fibrin sealant reduced early postoperative bleeding without adversely affecting pain control, mucosal healing, or recurrence after FESS. Larger randomized trials with extended follow-up are recommended to determine its definitive clinical value and potential for routine use in surgical practice.

Fariba Shokri, Mohammad Mehdi Rejati , Mehdi Shokri,
Volume 83, Issue 5 (8-2025)
Abstract

Background: Asthma attacks are one of the most common reasons for patient referral in adult and paediatric age groups, leading to hospitalization of these patients. In addition to the fact that only a small percentage of asthma attacks are due to bacterial infections, asthma treatment guidelines recommend against the routine use of antibiotics in patients hospitalized for asthma attacks. However, many patients treated for asthma attacks receive antibacterial drugs. Therefore, the aim of the present study is to investigate the prescription of antibacterial drugs in patients with asthma attacks.
Methods: In this study, data related to Imam Khomeini (RA) and Shahid Mustafa Khomeini Teaching Hospitals in Ilam city were examined between April 2017 to March 2022. Cases hospitalized due to asthma attacks in the mentioned hospitals during that time period were included in the study according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria.
Results: A total of 331 patients, including 273 adults (84.4%) and 58 children (17.6%), hospitalized for asthma attacks were included in the study. 84.42% of adults and 70.69% of children received antibacterial drugs. The use of antibacterial drugs in adults (p < 0.001) and children (p = 0.008) was significantly associated with an increase in the average length of hospitalization. Among adults, 12 patients required intubation, which was not significantly associated with the use of antibacterial drugs (p = 0.51). Among children, 1 patient required intubation, which was not statistically significant in terms of association with antibiotic use.
Conclusion: The prescription of antibacterial drugs in the treatment of patients hospitalized due to asthma attacks in teaching hospitals in Ilam city is more than similar domestic and international studies. Also, the prescription of antibacterial drugs in these patients not only has no therapeutic benefit, but is also associated with an increase in the duration of hospitalization. It is necessary to consider the necessary measures to modify the views of specialists on the prescription of antibacterial drugs based on the latest evidence-based guidelines.


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