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Effect of cell therapy compared to renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system blocking agent in chronic kidney disease in cat-animal model
Nahid Askari, Ali Ali Shafieipour , Soudeh Khanamani Falahati-Pour,
Volume 81, Issue 5 (August 2023)
Abstract
Background: Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) transplantation is a promising therapy for kidney repair. This study compared the regenerative effects of feline MSCs (fMSCs) and telmisartan, a renin-angiotensin blocker (RAB), in a feline model of chronic kidney disease (CKD).
Methods: The fMSCs were obtained from 35 Persian cats with CKD and characterized by CD44, CD90, and CD105 markers by using real-time RT-qPCR. The cats were randomly allocated to four groups, fMSCs injection (first group), telmisartan administration (second group), no treatment (third group), and healthy controls (fourth group). The study was conducted in Kerman province from December 2018 to December 2019. The factors that may affect the risk of CKD, such as age, weight, and history of kidney diseases, were considered as independent variables. The presence or absence of CKD was the dependent variable. The cats were followed up for 120 days and evaluated by physical examination, glomerular filtration rate (GFR), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), serum creatinine (SCr), serum urea, alanine transaminase (ALT), urine specific gravity (SG), and kidney histopathology. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software (version 20) with two-way ANOVA and Tukey test. P<0.05 was considered statistically significant.
Results: The fMSCs group showed significant improvement in GFR, BUN, SCr, serum urea, SG, and kidney histology compared to the other groups. The fMSCs group also showed increased expression of CD44, CD90, and CD105 genes in the kidney tissue, indicating enhanced stem cell activity. The telmisartan group showed modest improvement in blood pressure and proteinuria, but no significant effect on other parameters. fMSCs transplantation can restore the kidney function and structure in cats with CKD by modulating the apoptosis and proliferation of renal cells. The telmisartan  patients benefited from the anti-hypertensive and anti-proteinuric effects of the drug, but not from its anti-fibrotic or anti-inflammatory effects.
Conclusion: fMSCs transplantation was more effective than telmisartan in improving kidney function and reducing kidney damage in cats with CKD. fMSCs may be a potential therapeutic option for CKD patients.

Effect of intravenous administration of atropine-neostigmine versus ondansetron in prevention postdural puncture headache in cesarean section under spinal: a randomized clinical trial
Atefeh Ghosouri, Mitra Jabalameli , Behzad Nazemroaya, Roxana Najafian ,
Volume 81, Issue 7 (October 2023)
Abstract
Background: More than one-third of women develop headaches in the first week after childbirth. Approximately 75% are benign primary headaches such as migraines or tension headaches. Others are secondary and include headaches of vascular origin or from hypertensive disease, infection, space-occupying lesions and dural puncture. Postdural Puncture Headache (PDPH) is a common and annoying complication of spinal anesthesia, especially in cesarean section. This study compares the impress of an Atropine-Neostigmine mixture and Ondansetron on Post Spinal Puncture Headaches in Cesarean sec.
Methods: This triple-blinded controlled randomized clinical trial was conducted on 60 pregnant women candidates for cesarean section under spinal anesthesia, that was carried out from May 2021 to August 2021 at Behshti Medical and Education Center affiliated with Isfahan University of Medical Sciences. The study was approved by the Ethics Committee of the University (IR.MUI.REC.1400.009) and informed consent was obtained from the patients/legal guardians. This clinical trial was registered at www.irct.ir with identification code IRCT 20160307026950N39.
 People were randomly assigned into three groups. A mixture of neostigmine (20 micrograms per kilogram) and atropine (10 micrograms per kilogram) in the first group and 4 mg of Ondansetron in the second group and a similar volume of normal saline in the control group were administered before surgery. Patients were followed up for headaches up to seven days after surgery. The severity of the headache was measured using the VAS scale. One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and non-parametric equivalent, Kruskal-Wallis, chi-square test, and repeated measure test were used to measure the relationship between the variables.
Results:  Analysis of the data did not show a significant difference between the three groups in terms of headache severity (P=0.788), headache duration, (P=0.723), the time elapsed from lumbar puncturing to the occurrence of the first headache (P=0.653), and the frequency of attempts for correct spinal tap (P=0.685).
Conclusion: none of our considered interventions had a noticeable impress on preventing or reducing PDPH in Cesarean section.

Comparison of Liver stiffness Prevalence in Diabetics and Prediabetics
Elena Lak , Eskandar Hajiani, Jalal Sayyah , Zeynab Hosseinpour , Alireza Sedaghat,
Volume 81, Issue 11 (February 2024)
Abstract
Background: Diabetes is known to be linked with a high risk of liver stiffness in non-alcoholic fatty liver patients. Previous studies have faced challenges in examining the association between prediabetes and liver stiffness. This study aimed to compare liver fibrosis in diabetes and prediabetes patients.
Methods: This cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted on patients with diabetes and prediabetes who were referred to Imam Khomeini Hospital in Ahvaz from March 2022 to March 2023. The study aimed to clear the relationship between liver stiffness and age, gender, BMI, AST, ALT, ALKP, Bilirubin, and the type of treatment. The normality of quantitative variables was checked using the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test. The chi-square test examined two qualitative variables with more than two levels.
Results: Out of the total participants, 53 people (63.9%) had diabetes, while 30 people (36.1%) had prediabetes. There was a significant difference between the mean severity of liver fibrosis in diabetic and pre-diabetic patients (P=0.014). The frequency of liver stiffness in all levels except in the group with mild or no fibrosis (F0-F1) was higher in diabetic than pre-diabetic patients. In both diabetes and prediabetes groups, there was no significant relationship between gender, age, BMI, ALT, and ALKP with liver fibrosis. However, there was a significant direct relationship between HbA1C% and liver fibrosis (P≥0.003) in both groups. In diabetic patients, a significant relationship between FBS and liver fibrosis was observed (P=0.001). In pre-diabetic patients, significant direct relationship was seen between the severity of liver fibrosis and AST levels (P=0.026).
Conclusion: Diabetic patients showed a higher severity of liver fibrosis compared to pre-diabetic patients. No statistically significant relationship was seen between liver fibrosis and age, sex, body mass index, ALT, and ALKP in both groups. Additionally, both diabetes and prediabetes groups showed significant relationship between liver fibrosis and HbA1C (P≥0.003). Prediabetes was also found to be associated with an elevated risk of liver fibrosis.

A guide for conducting exploratory factor analysis in medical science research using SPSS: a brief report
Jafar Hassanzadeh, Haleh Ghaem Maralani , Fatemeh Jafari , Aboubakr Jafarnezhad,
Volume 81, Issue 11 (February 2024)
Abstract
Background: It is necessary to examine different dimensions of psychometrics in different sciences, and paying attention to the accuracy and precision of the results can lead to the construction of reliable and valid tools; In this article, exploratory factor analysis has been done using SPSS software, version 26.
Methods: This research was a brief report that was conducted between 30 January 2023 to 10 October 2023. Reliability means reproducibility and continuity of results in the same conditions, and validity means matching the test with the purpose for which it was designed. Validity includes face, content, criterion and construct validity. To determine construct validity, various methods are used including: convergent validity, divergent validity, internal consistency and factor analysis. Factor analysis is a method that aims to simplify a complex set of data and allows researchers to find a specific pattern among many variables and complex relationships between them which includes exploratory factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis. Exploratory factor analysis is a statistical technique that is used to estimate hidden factors or variables and reduce the large number of variables.
Results: exploratory factor analysis is a statistical method that is used by reducing the number of variables and exploring the underlying structure of a large set of variables with the aim of discovering factors or hidden variables, and its basic assumption is that any variable may be related to any factor. It tries to use factor loadings to discover the factorial structure of the data and by identifying the basic structures, grouping the factors by considering the common meaning of the variables.
Conclusion: Reliability means repeatability and validity of the degree of accuracy of the results which are measured through different methods. Exploratory factor analysis uses construct validity measurement methods to simplify the data and provide more reliable and valid tools, so it is very important to pay attention to the accurate and correct measurement of the results in the validation of health system tools.

Application of bone cements based on ceramic and polymer in orthopedic surgeries: a review article
Naeemeh Kalali, Sogand Mirshah, Mohammad Hossein Ebrahimzadeh , Bibi Fatemeh Kalalinia, Ali Moradi, Azar Gharib, Nafiseh Jirofti ,
Volume 81, Issue 12 (March 2024)
Abstract
For over 50 years, bone cement has been used to strengthen artificial joints like hip, knee, shoulder, and elbow joints. The main purpose of bone cement is to fill the space between the prosthesis and the bone. This absorbs the forces on the joint by creating an elastic area. Besides ensuring the long-term stability of the artificial implant, it also improves the damaged bone. Polymeric bone cement consists of a polymer matrix known as polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) and a liquid monomer called methyl methacrylate (MMA). When these two components are mixed, a free radical polymerization reaction occurs, leading to the cement's hardening at the place of use. The properties of bone cement, such as mechanical strength, biocompatibility, and handling characteristics, can be adjusted by combining the effective polymerization parameters. However, there are some challenges, such as heat generation during polymerization.
Ceramic bone cement is a composite material of ceramic particles dispersed in a polymer matrix, including calcium phosphate and calcium sulfate. The ceramic particles provide strength and bioactivity, while the polymer matrix enhances the transport properties of the cement. This combination results in a mechanically stable, bone-conductive, and biocompatible cement. Moreover, ceramic bone cement can be engineered to release therapeutic agents, such as antibiotics or growth factors, to prevent infection and foster bone regeneration. Ceramic bone cement is a promising alternative material for bone cement in joint replacement. However, more research and development are required to optimize the properties of bone cement and overcome the challenges associated with its use. With continued advancements in biomaterials, ceramic and polymer bone cement could revolutionize the field of orthopedic surgery and improve patient outcomes. Recent research has focused on developing new bone cement with improved properties like bioactivity, antibacterial activity, and drug delivery capabilities. These developments aim to enhance the performance of bone cement and remove the current limitations in orthopedic applications. In this review study, we will focus on the types of bone cement, their mechanical, biological, and structural properties, and how to optimize them.

The impact of selenium and astaxanthin on sperm parameters and sensory-motor function recovery in spinal cord injured rats
Parviz Shahabi, Jalal Abdolalizadeh, Shirin Hasanpour, Behnaz Sadeghzadeh Oskouei , Soheila Bani,
Volume 82, Issue 2 (May 2024)
Abstract
Background: Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a significant medical and social issue, leading to varying degrees of sensory and motor impairments. Most men experience sexual dysfunction and fertility problems. These issues can be partially attributed to pathophysiological mechanisms, including damage caused by reactive oxygen species (ROS). Targeted antioxidant therapy can significantly reduce oxidative stress and neuro inflammation. This study sought to examine the impact of selenium and astaxanthin on sperm parameters and the recovery of sensory-motor function in rats with spinal cord injury (SCI).
Methods: This experimental study utilized the rat animal model and was carried out at the Neuroscience Research Center Laboratory of Tabriz University of Medical Sciences from December 30, 2022, to November 27, 2023. Fifty adults male Wistar rats were randomly allocated into five groups of ten: control, sham, SCI, selenium-supplemented, and astaxanthin-supplemented. Except for the control and sham groups, spinal cord injury was induced in all other groups. Six weeks after the injury and upon completion of the treatment, the effects of selenium and astaxanthin supplementation on sperm parameters and spinal cord repair were assessed. The Basso, Beattie, and Brenham (BBB) scale was employed to evaluate motor function, while the Von Frey test was utilized to assess sensory status.
Results: A considerable rise in sperm concentration was noted in both the selenium-fed group and the astaxanthin-fed group when compared to the spinal cord injury group (P=0.001). Supplementation with selenium and astaxanthin improved sperm concentration, progressive motility, and viability, bringing these parameters close to control levels (P<0.001). However, neither of these substances had an effect on abnormal sperm morphology (P>0.05). Both selenium and astaxanthin supplementation enhanced the motor and sensory functions of the injured rats (P<0.001), with selenium showing a greater role in promoting repair compared to astaxanthin (P<0.001).
Conclusion: Selenium and astaxanthin supplements improved sperm parameters, except for sperm morphology, and were effective in enhancing motor and sensory functions after spinal cord injury. Selenium was found to be more effective than astaxanthin in promoting spinal cord repair.

Comparison of 2% dexmedetomidine and lidocaine in analgesia control and hemodynamic changes in cataract surgery with local anesthesia
Reza Sahraei, Ahmad Bostani , Mousa Zare, Navid Kalani, Fatemeh Eftekharian,
Volume 82, Issue 3 (June 2024)
Abstract
Background: Cataract surgery is the most common surgery in the world. The prevalence of age-related cataract increases with age, and its prevalence increases with each decade of age after forty years. Various drugs are used to control analgesia and hemodynamics in patients undergoing cataract surgery. The purpose of this study is to compare dexmedetomidine and 2% lidocaine in the control of analgesia and hemodynamic changes in cataract surgery with local anesthesia.
Methods: In this double-blind clinical trial study, 52 patients with anesthesia class I and II underwent cataract surgery. Patients were randomly assigned to two groups: lidocaine (three cc) and dexmedomedin (five μg/kg + lidocaine). The information collection checklist in this study included: age, gender, history of aspirin use, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, heart rate, intraocular pressure, postoperative complications, and postoperative pain.
Results:  The Mann-Whitney U test showed that the Dex-Metomedin group had less pain than the Lidocaine group in the first hour after the intervention (P=0.012). Two hours after the intervention, the dexmedemodin group had less pain than the lidocaine group (P=0.001). In the investigation of IOP after retrobulbar block in the dexmedetomidine group, we saw a significant increase in IOP from 16.56±3.12 to 17.96±2.68 mmHg compared to before the block (P=0.001). In the lidocaine group, we also saw a significant increase in IOP from 16.18±3.66 to 19.66±4.67 mm Hg compared to before the block (P=0.001). Before and after retrobulbar block, there was no significant difference between the two groups (P=0.694 and P=0.108, respectively). To investigate the effect of these interventions more precisely, the amount of IOP pressure change was also compared between the two groups, and we saw a greater increase in the lidocaine group than in the dexmedetomidine group (P=0.002).
Conclusion: The results of the present study showed that dexmedetomidine + lidocaine in retrobulbar form compared to lidocaine was able to control the pain level of patients after surgery and systolic and diastolic blood pressure during surgery. It is suggested to use this drug as local anesthesia in cataract surgery.

The effect of adding two doses of epinephrine along with intrathecal bupivacaine and fentanyl on hemodynamic in lower extremity orthopedic surgery: a double-blind randomized clinical trial study
Navid Kalani , Hasan Zabetian, Shahram Shafa, Erfaneh Alirezai, Fatemeh Eftekharian, Reza Sahraei ,
Volume 82, Issue 4 (July 2024)
Abstract
Background: Recently, epinephrine is used to increase the depth and duration of local anesthetic pain, and it is widely used topically to reduce local anesthetic release and reduce bleeding caused by surgery.
Methods: This study was a randomized, double-blind clinical trial on 30 patients aged 18 to 85 years undergoing lower limb orthopedic surgery referred to Peymaniyeh Hospital in Jahrom from September to December 2022. Patients were randomly assigned to two groups, A (epinephrine+fentanyl+bupivacaine) and B (bupivacaine+fentanyl). Systolic blood pressure, diastolic pressure, mean arterial pressure, arterial blood oxygen saturation percentage, and pulse rate were measured and recorded before drug administration, before spinal anesthesia, after anesthesia, and then every half hour until the end of surgery (15, 45, 30, 60, 75, 90, 120) and during recovery. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 21 software and descriptive (mean, standard deviation) and inferential statistics (t-test, chi-square, Mann-Whitney, Friedman) at a significance level of P<0.05.
Results: Thirty patients aged 18 to 85 years (in two groups of 15) with anesthesia class I and II undergoing lower limb orthopedic surgery were evaluated. The study groups are matched in terms of age and gender variables. There was no significant difference in mean systolic, diastolic, mean arterial blood pressure, and heart rate before and after anesthesia, 15, 45, 30, 60, 75, 90, and 120 minutes after drug injection, and at entry and exit from recovery between the Epinephrine+Fentanyl+Bupivacaine and Fentanyl+Bupivacaine groups. There was a significant difference in mean O2SAT before anesthesia, 15, 30, and 75 minutes after drug injection between the epinephrine+fentanyl+bupivacaine and fentanyl+ bupivacaine groups (P<0.05).
Conclusion: The use of the combination of epinephrine+fentanyl+intrathecal bupivacaine compared to the combination of fentanyl+bupivacaine did not have a significant difference in the studied variables of patients' vital signs.

Investigating the effect of intravenous dexmedetomidine on bleeding rate and surgeon satisfaction in septorhinoplasty patients
Mojtaba Ghaedi, Mojtaba Sohrabpour, Gholamreza Motazedian, Navid Kalani , Reza Sahraei , Mohammad Sadegh Sanie Jahromi,
Volume 82, Issue 4 (July 2024)
Abstract
Background: Rhinoplasty is a challenging and complex surgery because it is designed to meet the unique needs of the patient. In rhinoplasty surgery, many factors contribute to achieving the desired result. These factors include the surgeon's care and observation, analysis of the existing anatomy, choice of surgical technique, degree of soft tissue and cartilage trauma, amount of bleeding, quality of surgical instruments and anesthesia, and anything that helps reduce bleeding.
Methods: This double-blind study was conducted on 50 patients aged 18 to 45 years undergoing septorhinoplasty surgery referred to Motahari Hospital in Jahrom city in 2022. Patients were randomly divided into dexmedetomidine and control groups. The degree of sedation, bleeding and surgeon satisfaction were evaluated and recorded. Data analysis was performed using SPSS software, version 21 (IBM SPSS, Armonk, NY, USA) and descriptive statistics (mean, standard deviation, percentage, number, frequency) and inferential statistical tests (Mann-Whitney U test, Kruskal-Wallis, t-test, chi-square test). The significance level in all tests was considered P<0.05.
Results: The majority of patients in the study groups were female and the mean age of patients in the dexmedetomidine group was 34.36±7.33 years and in the control group was 36.60±9.59 years. The study groups were similar in terms of age and body mass index (P<0.05). The frequency of patient sedation in the dexmedetomidine group was lower than the control group, but it was not statistically significant (P<0.05). The results showed that at the beginning of the operation and 90 minutes later, the satisfaction level of the patient surgeon in the dexmedetomidine group was significantly better than the control group (P<0.001). In the dexmedetomidine group, the field of view of the surgeon was relatively clear and completely clear. The amount of bleeding in the dexmedetomidine group was lower than the control group, but it was not statistically significant (P<0.05).
Conclusion: Dexmedetomidine increased the surgeon's satisfaction by reducing bleeding and improving the surgeon's visual field. Therefore, this drug can be used as an anesthetic aid in surgery.

Relationship between sarcopenia and postoperative complications in bladder cancer patients undergoing radical cystectomy
Solmaz Ohadian Moghadam , , Mohsen Ayati, Erfan Amini , Faeze Salahshour, Mohsen Shiraghaei ,
Volume 82, Issue 5 (August 2024)
Abstract
Background: Sarcopenia is the degenerative loss of skeletal muscle mass, which is known as a poor postoperative outcome in various cancer types. Radical cystectomy (RC) is often associated with high mortality rates, and sarcopenia is hypothesized to aid in risk stratification. Hence, this study assessed the role of Sarcopenia as an indicator of postoperative outcomes and survival rates in patients undergoing RC for bladder cancer.
Methods: This cross-sectional research was carried out between January 2022 and January 2023 on 30 patients with bladder cancer who were candidates for RC and referred to the urology clinic of Imam Khomeini Hospital in Tehran. One week before surgery, the cross-sectional area of the psoas muscle was measured using MRI to estimate muscle volume, and the sarcopenia index was calculated. Muscle area evaluation was performed by calculating the cross-sectional area of the left and right psoas muscles on MRI. The psoas muscle area was calculated by excluding blood vessels, bony structures, and intermuscular fat regions based on fat signals. The calculated psoas muscle area was then normalized to the patient's height in square meters. To improve the quality of reporting on surgical complications, the patients were re-examined and the duration of patients' hospital stays was measured.
Results: The mean sarcopenic index for the patients was 1264.6 ± 591.5 mm²/m². Seven patients (24.1%) were smokers, while 22 patients (75.9%) were non-smokers. During the 10-month follow-up period, 25 patients (83.3%) remained alive, and 5 patients (16.7%) passed away. The mean value of sarcopenic index in patients with localized cancer was higher than those with advanced cancer, but this difference was not statistically significant. Data analysis revealed a significant association between higher mortality rates and the presence of locally advanced bladder tumors (P = 0.046). Additionally, a reduced sarcopenic index in this study was significantly correlated with lymphovascular invasion. In this study, no correlation was found between perioperative complications and sarcopenic index.
Conclusion: To conclude, a significant association was observed between a reduction in the sarcopenic index and lymphovascular invasion; however, no connection was identified between mortality rates and postoperative complications following RC.

Comparison of quality of life between diabetic patients with and without retinopathy: an analytical cross-sectional study in Jahrom city
Seyyed Ahmad Razavizadegan, Fatemeh Eftekharian , Fatemeh Rahmanian, Navid Kalani,
Volume 82, Issue 5 (August 2024)
Abstract
Background: Diabetic retinopathy is one of the main causes of blindness in the world and one of the causes of disability in diabetic patients. However, no study has been conducted in Iran to Comparison of Quality of Life between Diabetic Patients With and Without Retinopathy.
Methods: This descriptive-analytical study was conducted on 183 diabetic patients referred to the Jahrom Honari Clinic from October to February 2023. The patients were divided into two groups: diabetic patients without retinopathy complications and diabetic patients with retinopathy complications. The data collection tool included two demographic information questionnaires and a quality of life questionnaire (DQOL-BCI). The data of the two groups and subgroups were compared and analyzed using SPSS version 21 software and descriptive statistics (frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation) and inferential statistical tests (chi-square, t-test, ANOVA, Pearson correlation coefficient) at a significance level of P<0.05.
Results: The majority of diabetic patients participating in the study in the group with retinopathy (70.3%) and the group without retinopathy (75%) were male. The groups of Diabetic Patients With and Without Retinopathy did not differ significantly from each other in terms of demographic variables and were similar. There was a significant difference between Diabetic Patients With and Without Retinopathy in terms of average quality of life (P>0.001). The mean quality of life in the group of diabetic patients with retinopathy (41.19±7.97) was higher than that of the group of diabetic patients without retinopathy (37.22±7.37). There was no significant difference between the mean quality of life and demographic variables in diabetic patients without retinopathy and diabetic patients with retinopathy (P<0.001).
Conclusion: That patients with retinopathy had a higher quality of life than the group without retinopathy. These results were obtained while none of the demographic variables such as age, gender, marital status, and education level had a significant relationship with the quality of life of these patients.

Investigating the role of vitamin D deficiency as a risk factor and prognosis of breast cancer: a case-control study
Navid Kalani , Lohrasb Taheri , Fatemeh Eftekharian, Ali Talebi, Marzieh Haghbeen,
Volume 82, Issue 6 (September 2024)
Abstract
Background: Breast cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed in women. Epidemiological studies have led to the hypothesis that vitamin D may reduce the risk of breast cancer. This study aimed to investigate the association between vitamin D deficiency and breast cancer.
Methods: This case-control study was conducted on 59 patients referred to Khatam Al-Anbia Comprehensive Cancer Clinic in Jahrom city between May 2021 and March 2022. Thirty patients with pathologically confirmed ductal or lobular breast cancer in situ or invasive in one or both breasts, with no previous history of the disease and within two months of their breast cancer diagnosis, were considered as the case group. Thirty women without breast cancer who had been referred for breast screening examination were considered as the control group. Both groups were matched for demographic characteristics and age. The data collection tools in this study included demographic information and clinical history of the patients and serum vitamin D levels. Data analysis was performed using SPSS software, version 21 (IBM SPSS, Armonk, NY, USA) and descriptive statistics (mean, percentage, and standard deviation) and inferential statistical tests (logistic regression, Kolmogorov-Smirnov). The significance level was considered to be P<0.05.
Results: The mean age of the patients participating in the case group was 52.17±10.6 and in the control group was 51.24±9.7. There was no statistically significant difference in age (P=0.654). There was also no significant difference between the two groups in terms of body mass index and different body index classifications, menopause age, and age of onset of menstruation. The number of months of breastfeeding in the control group was significantly higher than the case group (P=0.001). The results of logistic regression showed that, on the other hand, there was no significant relationship between the type of pathology of the disease and serum vitamin D levels.
Conclusion: The results of the present study showed that vitamin D deficiency can be a poor prognostic factor in the course of breast cancer.

Investigating the effect of insect body extracts (their products) and some arthropods in inhibiting the growth of cancer cells or tumours (breast cancer cell line/MCF7)
Bahar Rostamizadeh, Alireza Jalali-Zand , Kamran Qhaedi, Rozita Nasiri,
Volume 82, Issue 8 (November 2024)
Abstract
Background: Insects and arthropods, along with their products, have been used as medicinal sources since ancient times, that is called entomotherapy. Cancer is one of the major problems in medical science, for which a drug has not yet been discovered to control it quickly and accurately. Arthropods have been medicinal sources since ancient times and they especially Insects have a high potential for insect therapy because of the biodiversity. This research investigates the effect of insect body extracts and arthropods in inhibiting the growth of cancer cells or tumours, specifically on the breast cancer cell line, MCF7002E
Methods: The basic and applied study was conducted in Isfahan from 2018 to 2023. In this research, six species of insects, namely Gryllotalpa sp., Polyrhachis sp., Dolichovespula sp., Apis mellifera, Periplaneta americana, Drosophila melanogaster, and one species of Chilopoda, Scolopendra sp., were used. The samples were washed with distilled water and 70% alcohol, then frozen and powdered and prepared in 1% DMSO at eight concentrations of 62.5, 125, 250, 500, 1000, 2000, 4000, 8000 μg/ml and were evaluated for the control of two lines of breast cancer cells MCF-7 by the MTT test was performed to check the effect of doses. The affected doses of insects and centipedes were performed in 6 replicates and three times to MCF-7 cells. IC50 and LD50 were calculated by Prism version six software to check the effect of concentrations determine the effective dose and choose the best extract to control the growth of MCF-7 breast cancer cells.
Results: Scolopendra sp., Drosophila melanogaster, Periplaneta americana, Polyrhachis sp., Apis mellifera, and Gryllotalpa sp. are the most effective species, respectively, in inducing apoptosis and cell death in MCF-7 cancer cell line. Dolichovespula sp. had the least effect. Scolopendra sp. at a concentration of 500 μg/litre induced cell death in more than 50% of MCF-7 cancer cells.
Conclusion: The results of the application of seven different genera of arthropods and insects showed that these genera have excellent therapeutic potential, particularly in the treatment of MCF-7 cancer cells.
 

Acute pulmonary embolism after hysterectomy surgery: a case report
Reza Sahraei, Fatemeh Eftekharian, Navid Kalani , Hajar Taghizadeh,
Volume 82, Issue 8 (November 2024)
Abstract
Background: Pulmonary embolism (PE) occurs when a blood clot blocks a pulmonary artery or its branches. Complications after a hysterectomy can include bleeding, infection, thrombosis, damage to surrounding structures and bowel or bladder problems. This study reports a case of acute pulmonary embolism after hysterectomy surgery.
Case Presenetation: A 52-year-old woman who was a candidate for Total Abdominal Hysterectomy (TAH)+Bilateral Salpingo-Oophorectomy (BSO) due to vaginal bleeding for 3 weeks. During the surgery, the patient's hemodynamics were normal. The surgery lasted about one and a half hours. The patient's bleeding and urine output were normal. At the end of the surgery, the patient was released from muscle relaxation with neostigmine and atropine. The patient woke up and had stable hemodynamics during recovery and was transferred to the women's ward. The next day, the patient started walking in the ward when he suddenly had syncope. The cardiopulmonary resuscitation team immediately arrived at the patient's bedside. Due to the patient's poor breathing, the patient was quickly intubated and resuscitation with cardiac massage and appropriate medications was initiated. A cardiologist and radiologist were consulted urgently and they arrived at the patient's bedside. During cardiopulmonary resuscitation, echocardiography showed a clot in the proximal right and left pulmonary arteries, and an appropriate dose of Reteplase was administered with a diagnosis of extensive pulmonary embolism. Unfortunately, despite the medical team's efforts, the patient died.
Conclusion: Based on the results of the present study, patients who undergo hysterectomy with a history of previous bleeding are at risk of acute pulmonary embolism; therefore, these patients should be closely monitored after surgery and receive appropriate medications after surgery to prevent pulmonary embolism as ordered by the Physians. 

During the first two weeks following shoulder labral repair between patients receiving interscalene block alone and those receiving interscalene block plus intravenous morphine
Seyed Mohammad Reza Hadavi , Maryam Zahedi, Navid Kalani, Naeimeh Ossadat Asmarian , Reza Sahraei ,
Volume 82, Issue 9 (December 2024)
Abstract
Background: Shoulder labral repair surgery is associated with significant postoperative pain and restricted mobility. Inadequate pain management may lead to delayed rehabilitation, increased risk of chronic pain development, and higher opioid consumption. This study aimed to compare postoperative pain intensity during the first two weeks following shoulder labral repair between patients receiving interscalene block alone versus those receiving interscalene block combined with intravenous morphine.
Methods: In this randomized, double-blind, parallel-group clinical trial, 120 patients undergoing open rotator cuff repair at Chamran Hospital, Shiraz (June-December 2024) were allocated using balanced block randomization. Group 1 received preoperative interscalene block with 30 mL of 0.5% ropivacaine, while Group 2 received the same block plus intravenous morphine (1% mg/kg). Data analysis was performed using descriptive statistics such as mean and percentage and appropriate statistical tests such as Repeated measurement and Anova using SPSS software, version 21 (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA). The significance level was considered to be (P<0.05).
Results: Demographic characteristics (age, sex, weight, ASA class) showed no significant intergroup differences (p>0.05). Pain scores were significantly lower at all time points in the combination therapy group compared to the block-only group (p<0.05).
Conclusion: The results of the present study showed that the combination of interscalene block with morphine was significantly more effective in reducing pain after rotator cuff surgery than interscalene block alone. This finding suggests that the use of morphine as an additional analgesic can enhance the analgesic effects of interscalene block and provide better pain relief. The combination of these two methods may cause a positive interaction in pain relief and reduce the need for other medications, which consequently prevents the side effects caused by additional analgesic drugs, and patients who receive the combination of these two treatment methods experience greater comfort and better functional improvement. However, it is recommended that further studies focusing on the precise dosage and timing of drug combinations be conducted to obtain more precise results regarding the optimization of pain management after rotator cuff surgery. Also, examining the long-term effects of this treatment method could help to better understand its advantages and disadvantages.

Vitamin D levels in maternal and umbilical cord blood of premature and full-term infants at birth: a case-control study
Farkhondeh Jamshidi, Maryam Mirsalar, Mehdi Torabizadeh, Mehrnoosh Zakerkish , Maryam Rostami, Maryam Moradi ,
Volume 82, Issue 9 (December 2024)
Abstract
Background: Vitamin D deficiency is associated with various complications, including preterm birth, low birth weight, and neonatal infections. This study aimed to measure the level of vitamin D in the umbilical cord blood of full-term and premature babies and consider the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in pregnant women.
Methods: In this case-control study, maternal vitamin D levels and umbilical cord blood vitamin D levels were estimated in March 2023 at Imam Khomeini Hospital in Ahvaz. The information obtained from questionnaires and laboratory measurements was statistically analyzed. Two groups of term or preterm infants delivered vaginally were enrolled in this study. As part of routine delivery room protocols, 2 mL of umbilical cord blood was collected from each neonate in a non-heparinized tube. The results were determined, and the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency was determined. The samples were categorized into three groups based on vitamin D serum levels: less than 20 ng/ml (severe deficiency), 20-29 ng/ml (moderate deficiency), and higher than 30 ng/ml (normal group).
Results:  In this study, 39 term infants (55.7%) and 31 preterm infants (44.3%) participated. The mean umbilical cord blood vitamin D levels were 44.15 ± 24.33 ng/mL in term infants and 30.98 ± 17.05 ng/mL in preterm infants. Similarly, maternal vitamin D levels averaged 17.09 ± 7.87 ng/mL for term pregnancies and 18.76 ± 6.6 ng/mL for preterm pregnancies. Preterm babies had higher odds of underlying diseases (OR: 2.31, 95% CI: 0.51-10.53). Multivitamin consumption was more prevalent among mothers of premature babies (71%). No significant differences in vitamin D levels were found between term and preterm babies or their mothers (P > 0.05).
Conclusion:  This study highlights the importance of multivitamin consumption among pregnant women, particularly those at risk of preterm delivery. The increased likelihood of underlying conditions and delayed recovery of vitamin D levels in preterm infants underscores the need for targeted interventions. Moreover, healthcare providers should emphasize vitamin D supplementation and monitoring.

Comparison of changes in right ventricular echocardiographic indices in pregnant women in the third trimester and non-pregnant women
Mohammad Haji Aghajani , Mohammad Parsa Mahjoob , Reza Miri , Roxana Sadeghi , Fatemeh Omidi , Maryam Roozitalab,
Volume 82, Issue 9 (December 2024)
Abstract
Background: Changes in the heart during pregnancy, especially changes in the left side of the heart, have been evaluated in various studies. However, alterations in the right ventricle have not been well studied. Thus, the present study aimed to investigate the changes in echocardiographic indices of the right ventricle in the second trimester of pregnancy.
Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 30 pregnant women, as case group, in their second trimester who were referred to the perinatology clinic of Imam Hossein Hospital, Tehran, were examined by trans-thoracic echocardiography From April 4, 2023, to April 10, 2024. The results of the control group were compared with 30 age-matched non-pregnant and healthy women, as the control group. Exclusion criteria included multiple gestation, maternal age > 40, underlying cardiovascular disease, and significant obstetric or fetal complications. Hemodynamics and demographic data including age, height, weight, and body mass index were recorded and compared. Also, the anatomical and functional indices of the right ventricle were evaluated and compared.
Results: 60 participants were enrolled in this study. The two investigated groups were similar in terms of age, but the weight, height, and BMI were significantly different in the two groups; Such that weight and body mass index were significantly higher in pregnant women and height in non-pregnant women (p<0.05). Comparison of echocardiographic indices showed that tricuspid regurgitation gradient (TRG) and fractional area change (FAC) were significantly different in the two groups (in pregnant women, TRG index was higher and FAC index was lower (p<0.05)). Right atrium area, RV length, base of RV, mid of RV, and Tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion showed no significant differences between case and control group.
Conclusion: FAC and TRG indices were significantly different between pregnant women and the control group. Paying attention to the changes in the normal values of these variables in pregnant women can be useful in improving the diagnosis of disorders and preventing the occurrence of cardiac events during pregnancy.
 

An evaluation of treatment volume coverage and dose delivered to vital organs in the management of low-grade brain gliomas using three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy (3DCRT) compared to intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT)
Reza Ghalehtaki, Mahdieh Razmkhah, Ali Kazemian, Mostafa Farzin, Samaneh Salarvand, Kasra Kolahdouzan, Ehsan Saraee,
Volume 82, Issue 10 (January 2025)
Abstract
Background: Gliomas are the most common primary brain tumors in adults, with low-grade gliomas making up 15% of cases. These slow-growing tumors often occur in young adults. Radiotherapy is one of the treatment options. New radiotherapy techniques like IMRT may reduce complications by sparing normal tissue. The study aims to determine which tumors benefit most from IMRT based on tumor location and size.
Methods: Patients diagnosed with low-grade glioma who were referred for treatment at the Cancer Institute of Imam Khomeini Hospital between September 2017 and September 2020 were included in this study. All patients underwent CT simulation with a thermoplastic mask for immobilization. A diagnostic MRI (performed within two weeks prior) was fused with the planning CT to define the target volume (GTV/CTV), with contours verified by a neuroradiologist. A doctor outlines the treatment volume and critical organs for both 3D and IMRT techniques. Radiotherapy physics experts design treatment plans using both techniques, which are then approved by a radiation oncologist. The treatment volume coverage and doses to critical organs are compared between the two techniques.
Results: Among 25 patients, 14 patients (56%) with single-lobe involvement, 7 (28%) with two lobes, and 4 (16%) with multifocal disease. Right-side brain involvement was seen in 32%, with the frontal lobe most affected. IMRT significantly reduced the mean and maximum cochlear dose on the treatment side in all patients. It also lowered the mean chiasma dose in those with both lobes involved and reduced cochlear dose on the opposite side in frontal lobe cases. No significant difference was found between the techniques for patients with multiple lobe involvement.
Conclusion: According to our study on 25 patients with low-grade glioma, it was shown that there is no clear difference between the two techniques. Given the young age and long survival of LGG patients, IMRT may be preferred when hearing preservation is a priority. Further studies with larger cohorts are needed to confirm these findings.

Investigation of risk factors for death in heart failure patients at Shahid Mustafa Khomeini Hospital
Firooz Balavandi, Hossein Moradkhani,
Volume 82, Issue 10 (January 2025)
Abstract
Background: Chronic heart failure (CHF) is a leading cause of cardiovascular mortality and hospitalization. Heart failure (HF) imposes both direct costs to healthcare systems and indirect costs to society through complications, unpaid care costs, premature mortality, and loss of productivity. The aim of the present study was to investigate the quality of care, laboratory and clinical indicators affecting mortality in heart failure patients.
Methods: In a descriptive study conducted in the summer of 1402, data were collected by extracting the list of patients who died with a diagnosis of heart failure from the hospital's information management system, based on random sampling, and recorded in a checklist. The number of patients selected was from a study of factors affecting mortality in heart failure patients at Shahid Mustafa Khomeini Hospital.
Results: 25.8% of patients had bilateral rales on pulmonary auscultation, and 88.7% of them reported shortness of breath, 58.1% edema, and 22.6% chest pain. LVEF of most patients was 10-25. With a decrease in systolic blood pressure and an increase in diastolic and HR, the probability of mortality increased significantly (1.058, 0.932, and 0.983) times, respectively. With a decrease in oxygen level, the probability of mortality increased significantly by 0.983 times. The mean ALT and AST increased significantly and the mean HCT also decreased significantly. With each unit increase in ALT and AST and each unit decrease in Hct, the probability of mortality increased (1.008, 0.985 and 1.283) times, respectively. With the decrease in Hb and FBS and the increase in Cr and BUN, the probability of mortality increased by 0.314, 1.013, 1.884 and 0.969 times, respectively. However, no significant relationship was observed between mortality and the factors Hb, FBS, Cr and BUN with patient mortality.
Conclusion: Dyspnea and edema were common in patients, and bilateral rales and chest pain were observed in less than half of the patients. A decrease in systolic blood pressure and an increase in diastolic and HR significantly increased the probability of mortality. A decrease in oxygen levels also significantly increased mortality in patients.

Fertility following bilateral varicocelectomy and resection of ejaculatory duct obstruction: a case report of infertility treatment after twenty years: a case report
Navid Kalani, Masoud Ghanei, Hossein Hakimelahi,
Volume 82, Issue 10 (January 2025)
Abstract
Background: Varicocele, defined as an abnormal enlargement and tortuosity of the veins in the pampiniform plexus, is the most common cause of correctable male infertility that might increase chance of fertility even in presence of further male factor infertility causes. While it is well known to be reason of fertility in male and is easy to treat, here we present a case with 20 years of infertility due to missed opportunity of varicocelectomy.
Case Presentation: A 39-year-old male patient with a family history of infertility for about 20 years was referred for azoospermia and stated that after two testicular biopsies and failure to obtain sperm in one of the equipped infertility treatment centers, he was recommended to receive a donated embryo, but he wanted to have his biological child genetically. In the history taken, he had a history of mild left varicocele and no other clinical problems, and mild bilateral varicocele was evident on examination. Karyotype and Y chromosome examination were normal, and hormonal tests and gonadotropin and testosterone levels were within normal limits. Semen volume was 1 ml in two tests one month apart, and semen was alkaline. The patient underwent microscopic bilateral varicocelectomy with an inguinal incision. The patient underwent fluoroscopy, vasography, which showed distal dilatation of both Vas deferens. Diluted methylene blue solution was also injected into the vas deferens and Folley was fixed. But the urine color did not turn blue, so the patient's position was changed to lithotomy and the patient underwent resection of the ejaculatory duct via the urethra, that is the Verumontanum was resected with a cautery-cutting cautery. Three months later, the patient presented with a completely normal semen analysis. The patient was advised to try to conceive at least four months after the operation. Two months later, pregnancy occurred again, and after 9 months, a healthy male fetus was born by cesarean section.
Conclusion: This study demonstrates that varicocele treatment can significantly improve fertility parameters and enhance the chances of successful conception in affected patients. The most important suggestion of this case report is to highlight the importance of timely diagnosis and treatment of varicocele as a correctable cause of male infertility. Unfortunately, our patient suffered from infertility for 20 years due to not undergoing varicocelectomy. Even obstruction treatment may not necessarily be needed in this case, as a sole varicocelectomy might make sperm extraction possible for further in vitro procedures.

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