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Abstract Background & Objectives: Thalassemia syndromes isone of the inherited disorders in which one or more globulin chains are affected. On the basis of clinical symptoms, thalassemias are categorized as minor, intermediate, and major. Minor beta -thalassemia is a mild microcytic hypo chromic anemia in most cases asymptomatic and HbA2 is more than normal. Materials & Methods: This study carried out on 813 blood samples obtained from male high school students of Aliabad Katool, in the north of Iran. After detecting red blood cell indices of the subjects whose MCV was less than 80fl HbA study performed. Results: The MCV of 8.24% of the subjects was less than 80fl.34 of 67 had HbA2 of less than 3.5 %(normal) while the rest more than 3.5%(minor). Conclusions: Since about 50% of microcytic anemic patients were the carrier of beta-thalassemia and it is highly Prevalent in this region (4.06%), we recommend to investigate HbA2 in people with MCV less than 80 fl. Keyword: Thalassemia, Thalassemia minor, HbA2, Iran

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Abstract Background & Objectives: Giardia lamblia is one of the most common protozoa in human being throughout the world. The different isolates of this parasite have various potential pathogenicity. Clinical demonstrations of Giardiasis are acute diarrhea, chronic diarrhea syndrome and malabsorbtion.The aim of this study has been the observation of the different kinds of clinical features in patients with Giardia lamblia referred to the Hamadan faculty of medicine, 2004- 2005 Materials & Methods: The fecal samples of 274 patients referred to Hamadan faculty of medicine were examined via direct and Formol- Eter methods. By a questionnaire, the subjects’ clinical manifestations were recorded and then analyzed. Results: In this study, 20.4% of the patients (55.4% male, 44.6% female) were infected with Giardia. 46.5% of them complained of abdominal pain. The prevalence of Giardia was 30.8 %( 6-10 years) and 23.1% (1-5 years). The most common signs observed were abdominal pain, diarrhea and vomiting, respectively. Conclusion: The most common sign observed in this study was abdominal pain, partially similar to studies carried out in other parts of Iran and the world too. Key word: Giardiasis, Clinical Signs,Epidemioloy,Hamadan

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Abstract Background and objective: Exposure of red blood cells to oxygen radicals can induce Lipid proxidation, hemoglobin damage and hemolysis of erythrocyte .The present study was designed to determine the alteration of plasma lipid peroxidation and erythrocyte Superoxide Dismutase and Glutathione Peroxidase enzyme activities in stored blood and to find out the quantitative alterations and the useful length of stored blood. Materials and Methods: First, the whole blood form 10 donors was taken. Then Red Blood Cells(RBC) were counted, the levels of Potassium(P) and lactate dehydrogenate activity(LDH) were measured to determine the amount of hemolysis, the plasma levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), erythrocyte Superoxide Dismutase(SOD) and Glutathione Peroxidase(GPx) were studied for determination of lipid peroxidation and antioxidant enzyme activities at the days of 0,1,3,5,7,9,11,13,15,17,19,21,23,25,27,29,31,33 and 35 of the storage. Results: upon storage time, the plasma levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and Potassium and lactate dehydrogenate activity increased (P< 0.05) whereas erythrocyte Superoxide Dismutase and Glutathione Peroxidase enzyme activities and Red Blood Cells decreased (P< 0.05). The alterations of MDA, SOD, GPx, P, LDH and RBC in the measurement days were as follows: MDA, P and LDH significantly increased at the day of 9, 5 and 5 whereas SOD,
GPx and RBC decreased at the day of 11, 7 and 29 respectively. Conclusion: The results of this study showed that the increased level of MDA and decreased SOD and GPx in stored blood can cause the beginning of hemolysis of erythrocyte therefore, it is necessary to control these factors before storing the donated blood. Keywords: lipid peroxidation, Superoxide Dismutase, Glutathione Peroxidase

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Abstract Background and objectives: Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) is acquired by infection with human immunodeficiency virus. (HIV).Parasite caused infection is the most common problem in AIDS Patients. Sometimes unusual and opportunistic infections such as intestinal parasitic infections may cause serious gastric intestinal (GI) disorders, which can finally lead to death. The aim of this study is to find intestinal parasites in AIDS patients referred to Disease Consultation Center of Kermanshah province. Materials and methods: In this study, the stool samples were collected from 75 AIDS patients admitted to Kermanshah consultation disease center. Then, all samples were tested by direct and formalin ether methods. Results: As shown in results , 13 patients (17.4%) are infected with Entamoeba coli, two( 2.7%) with Entamoeba histiolyticaly,one(1.4%) with Giardia lumbelia ,six (8%) with Blastocystis hominis ,two( 2.7%) with Isospora belli ,one(1.4%) with Ascaris lumbericoides ,two( 2.7%) with Endolimax nana . Conclusion: This study indicated that the frequency of pathogenic and non-pathogenic parasites was low in HIV+ patients. This may be related to anti-parasitic drugs used in all HIV+ patients admitted to Kermanshsh nsultation Disease center. Key words : Intestinal parasitic Infections, AIDS, Kermanshah consultation Disease center

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Abstract: Introduction: Influenza is highly transmitted disease and vaccination is the most effective way to prevent influenza. This research was designed to study the variation of serum antibody level among the subjects had already been vaccinated against influenza. Materials and Methods: This research is a descriptive-analytical study, which was carried out on 196 subjects who had influenza vaccination (influvac 2005/2006) and 200 subjects matched by the vaccinated subjects, by age. The subject's serums were prepared seven weeks after influenza vaccination, and the control group's serums were also prepared. The serum antibody level was determined by haemaglutination inhibition test. Results: The mean age of case group is 52.2±11 and control group 48.64±5.17.The antibody titre of 115 of Vaccinated group and 15 of control is less than 40 1 The mean antibody titer of vaccinated subjects and control group is 143.4 ± 10.89 and 18.34± 3.2, respectively. The difference is statistically significant (P value=0.000). Conclusion: The findings show that the mean titer of antibody in vaccinated and control group is statistically different. It means that the influenza vaccine had a good efficacy. Key words: Vaccination, Influenza, Gorgan.

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Abstract Background and objectives: Human T-Lymphocyte Virus-1 (HTLV- 1) is known as the etiologic factor of acute T-Lymphocytic Leukemia (ATL) and tropical spastic paralysis. (TSP). Endemic factors causing infection with Human T Lymphocyte Virus-1 (HTLV-1) is based on environmental, socio-economical and health behaviors of the individuals. This virus is well distributed in families with involved members. Golestan province is located in North West part of Northern Khorasan province that had already been known as an endemic area for HTLV-1. This virus is also known as the main etiologic factor for cancers and ATL, therefore we studied the prevalence of HTLV-1 seroepidemiology in Golestan province. Material and Methods: The subjects selected by cluster sampling were 2034 healthy cases residing in different parts of Golestan province. ELISA method using Dia- pro anti HTLV-1 antibody kits was applied for serological assessment. Western Blot (HTLV BLOT 2.4) was used for confirmation purposes. Results: The subjects aged 38.66±16.54 were 2034 healthy persons. Forty-one point seven of these cases were males and the rest females. Based on ELISA method there were15 HTLV-1 positive cases (0.7%). -1. (0.7%) Six out of 15 were confirmed by western blot method (95%, CI: 0.06-0.53%). The highest prevalence sigllificant) aiology is in the highat rate in 31-40 year old gro0.7%). onclusion: This study shows that HTLV-1 is prevalent in Golestan the same as the other parts of the world. There fere: we urse on performing screening test (HTLV-) on donated blood components before delivering (OK labeling). Key words: HTLV-1, Seroepidemiology, ELISA, Western Blot, Golestan ATL(Acute T lymphocytic Leukemia) Six cases out of 15 were confirmed by western blot method (95%, CI: 0.06-0.53%). The highest prevalence was 2.6% seen in Kalaleh city (east part of the province) [95%, Cl: 0.06-0.53%). There was significant difference between the prevalence of HTLV-1 and the dwelling place. (p=002). HTLV-1 seroepidemiology was in the highest rate in 31-40 year old group (0.7%). Conclusion: This study shows that HTLV-1 is prevalent in Golestan province, the same as the other parts of the world. Therefore, we recommend performing screening test (HTLV-) on donated blood components before delivering (OK labeling). Key words: HTLV-1, Seroepidemiology, ELISA, Western Blot, Golestan province, ATL (Acute T lymphocytic Leukemia)

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Abstract Background and objectives: Since Rubella is an infectious disease with a few clinical symptoms, it is hardly diagnosed. Especially in the first trimester of pregnancy, congenital rubella is one of the major causes of neonatal mortality and permanent disablement in children. The aim of this study was to determine the sero immunity Level of The single Female student's after national rubella vaccination program in Iran. Material and Methods: This descriptive seroepidemiologic study was conducted on 129 single medical students. After taking written consent form, blood Sample was drawn. The anti-rubella IgG titer was evaluated using ELISA method. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS (version10). Results: All Subjects had protective titer of anti-rubella antibodies. One hundred and eighteen students (91.5%) were immunized by taking rubella vaccine in the national vaccination program and only 11(8.5%) students reported that they suffered from natural rubella infection in the past. Conclusion: Based on the results of our study, vaccination against rubella in national vaccination program along with natural immunity caused by natural rubella infection in children could produce a protective immunity against rubella. Key words: Rubella, ELISA, vaccination, medical students

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Abstract Background&Objectives: High prevalence of parasitic infections can be the result of the subclinical infections. Some regular and ongoing epidemiological studies are needed to combat and control these infections. This study was conducted on elementary school students to achieve an overview of the spread of parasitic infections in Gorgan. Material & Methods: In this cross-sectional study, using random cluster sampling, 800 of 7-12 year-old students were selected from 18 primary schools in Gorgan. The stool samples taken on three consecutive days were examined by two methods including direct smear and formalin-ether concentration. Results: Overall, 230 (28.8%) are infected by intestinal parasites. The protozoa are Blastocystis hominis (122 15/2%), Entamoeba coli (93 11/6%), Giardia intestinalis (79 9.9%), and Entamoeba histolytic (8 1%). The Helminthes are Hymenolepis nana (12 1.5%), Entrobius vermicularis (10 1.2%), Ascaris lumbricoides in 4 (0.5%) and hook worms (3 0.4). Conclusion: Based on the results, the prevalence of intestinal parasites is quite high among primary school students especially in families with low education level, income and sanitary level. Hence, it is a necessity to promote the hygienic knowledge of the students . Key words: Prevalence, Intestinal parasites, Primary schools students, Gorgan

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Abstract Background and Objective: Bacterial infectioins in particular meningitis, pneumonia and septicemia are still some of the most causes of mortalities in children.The aim of present study was to identify the most common bacterial agents causing infectionis in children under 14 and detection of antibiotic resistance paterns. Material and Methods: During two years,1897samples were obtained from the patients suspected bacterial infectioins. They were investigated for bacterial cultures, age, sex and antibiogram patterns. The species were identified by biochemical and serological methods. Results: Of 1897 samples, 563 (29.6%) had positve bacterial culture. Of these 74.7% were gram negative and 25.3% gram positive . The most common species were Escherichia coli(34.1%), Staphylococcus aureus (17.1%), Psuedomonas aeroginosa (12.4%), Kelebsiella (11%) and Staphylococcus epidermidis (5.7%). The most effective antibiotics against both gram positive and gram negative bacteria were ceftriaoxne, nitrofurantoin, nalidixic acid, amikacin and gentamycin. Conclusion: The gram negative bacteria in particular Escherichia coli, Psuedomonas aeroginosa and Kelebsiella are the predominant causes of bacterial infections in children under 14 in these regions. Most species showed a high relative resisitance to routine antibiotics such as ampicillin, trimethoprim and chloramphenicol. Key Words: Bacteria Infection Children Antibiotic

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Abstract Background and Objective: Transmission of pathogens by cosmetics is one of the major health complications. Direct contact with contaminated non-standard cosmetics can have irreparable side effects for the consumers. Thus, the evaluation of microbial contamination in cosmetic products is important. The aim of this study was to assess the microbiological contamination of one of frequently used cream. Material and Methods: In the present study, 135 samples of a special moisturizing cream were randomly selected from pharmacies in Tehran. The microbial contamination assessment, sampling and culturing method were based on the protocol (No.3978) of Iranian Institute of Standard and Industrial Research. Results: sixty-two (46%) out of 135 samples were contaminated. The highest and lowest contaminations observed were Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Bacillus, respectively. Conclusion: Due to the high contamination rate of cosmetic creams, we recommend extremely monitoring and controlling these products by health centers. Keywords: Cosmetics, Microbial Contamination, Pseudomonas Aeruginosa

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Abstract Background and Objective: Onychomycosis is a fungal nail infection causing ulcers, diabetic foot and enhance nail infection. This study was designed to evaluate the prevalence of onychomycosis in type II diabetes. Material and methods: This descriptive-analytic study was conducted on 300 diabetic patients selected randomly among those referred to Panje Azar endocrinology clinic. They were examined for peripheral vascular disease, Skin lesions, diabetic foot and Peripheral neuropathy. The Laboratory tests such as FBS, HbA1c, Direct smear and fungal culture were used. Results: The patients with onychomycosis were 19 (6.3%) their mean age was 53.65±1.04 the youngest was 28 and the oldest 84. The male to female infection ratio was of 1.08 that was not statistically significant. There was no significant difference in regards to ethnicity, age, BMI, FBS, HbA1C. The location of the infection was 16 on feet (29.6%), and three on both hands and feet (P = 0.000) Conclusion: The prevalence of fungal infection was less frequent than that of other studies. Given that there was no significant relationship between different demographic data and its prevalence, further studies with larger sample size are needed. Keywords: Prevalence, Fungal Infections, Diabetes

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Abstract Background and Objective: Escherichia coli is the most common cause of urinary tract infections in children and the leading cause of intra-abdominal infections (peritonitis and abscess) followed intestinal injuries. Urinary tract infection, including cystitis and pyelonephritis, is a common childhood infection. E. coli causes more than 90 percent of the community acquired and 50% of hospital acquired urinary tract infections therefore, the determination of E. coli antibiotic susceptibility is a paramount importance to clinical and epidemiological purposes. Material and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 50 E. coli strains isolated from urine samples of children less than 7 years of age with urinary tract infections. They were compared for drug susceptibility testing by disc diffusion method with 50 strains of Escherichia coli isolated from stool samples of healthy children with the same age and sex pattern. Results: The actual amount of drug sensitivity of uropathogenic and intestinal Escherichia coli strains to amikacin was 94 and 100%, nitrofurantoin 90 and 88%, gentamicin 66 and 94%, cefixime 56 and 60%, nalidixic acid 38 and 44% and to cotrimoxazole 28 and 32%, respectively. Conclusion: the rate of resistance to gentamicin, Cefixime and nalidixic acid in urinary tract infection isolates were more than intestinal strains. The highest rate of drug resistance in urinary Escherichia coli isolates was associated with cotrimoxazole and the lowest one with amikacin. Keywords: Escherichia Coli, Intra-Abdominal Infection, Drug Resistance, Urinary Tract Infection, Children

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Abstract Background and Objective: Malassezia that is a part of normal flora is lipophilic yeast involved in a variety of skin diseases such as seborrheic dermatitis, pityriasis versicolor, atopic dermatitis and psoriasis. Seborrheic dermatitis affects most often the sebaceous-gland-rich areas of skin such as face, scalp, and parts of the upper trunk. Dandruff is a mild variant of seborrheic dermatitis characterized by scaling. In this study, Malassezia species causing dandruff were identified. Material and Methods: In this descriptive study, the samples (n= 60) from participants with dandruff were examined under a microscope using 10% KOH solution and cultured in Leeming and Notman ager medium. DNA Extraction was performed from colonies by glass bead and the Malassezia genus, and species were detected by CfoI enzyme using PCR-RFLP method Results: Of 60, 40 (66.6%) were positive for Malassezia yeast. The positive samples in direct examination grew in culture medium. Malassezia species isolated were Malassezia globosa (25 cases), Malassezia restricta (10 cases), Malassezia furfur (3 cases) and Malassezia sympodialis (2 cases). Conclusions: In most studies, the Malassezia species were identified as the agents causing seborrheic dermatitis. In our study, Malassezia globosa was isolated as a dominant species. Keywords: Seborrheic Dermatitis, Malassezia SPP, Arak

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Abstract Background and Objective: Helicobacter pylori (H. Pylori) infection is related to chronic gastritis, peptic ulcer, duodenal ulcer and gastric cancer. Thus, identification and treatment of the infection have a considerable importance. The aim of this study was to compare three methods of Histopathology, Culture and Rapid Urease test (RUT) in identification of H. Pylori in gastric biopsy specimens. Material and Methods: The participants were 153 patients (64 women and 89 men) suffering from digestive complaints, who referred to the endoscopy department of Shahid Beheshi Hospital in Hamadan, Iran. Three gastric biopsy samples were collected from each patient and examined by standard RUT, Histopathology and culture methods for diagnosis of H. Pylori. Results: Out of 153 patients, 69.9%, 27.4% and 2.6 % had gastritis, gastric ulcer and gastric cancer, respectively. The rate of infection with Urease test, culture and histology were identified 49.7%, 54.2%, and 89.5%, respectively. The sensitivity and specificity of the RUT result at first hour and after the first up to 24 hours were 55.4% and 80%, and 55.4% and 66/7%, respectively. The sensitivity and specificity of culture method were 60.6% and 100%, respectively. Conclusion: Based on the results, Histopathology method has a more sensitivity than both Culture method and rapid urease test for diagnosis of H. Pylori, and RUT is more specific when done in the first hour rather than after the first hour. Key words: Helicobacter pylori, rapid urease test methods, RUT, Histopathology

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Background and objectives: Recycled polyethylene terephthalate (RPET) nanofibers have become an important part of human life, with a continuous increase in their production and consumption. Herein, the antibacterial activity of nickel nanoparticles/recycled polyethylene terephthalate nanofibers (NiNP/RPET NF web) was evaluated by analyzing alginate expression in Pseudomonas aeruginosa, as an opportunistic microorganism.
Methods: NiNPs were synthesized and NiNP/RPET NF was produced by adding 25 μg/ml of NiNP to 10% solutions of RPET at a weight ratio of 3%. After exposing P. aeruginosa (PA01) to NiNP/RPET NF, the biofilm-forming capacity was determined and real-time PCR was performed to measure algD expression.
Results: Treatment with 25 μg/ml of NiNP/RPET NF reduced growth of P. aeruginosa on Mueller Hinton agar but did not result in complete inhibition. The biofilm optical density (550 nm) was 0.464 ± 0.021 after treatment with NiNP/RPET NF and 0.082± 0.011 in the absence of NiNP/RPET NF. This indicates the significant reduction of biofilm formation after exposure to NiNP/RPET NF (p=0.01). In addition, a 0.6-fold (p=0.03) reduction in alginate expression was detected by real-time quantitative real-time PCR.
Conclusion: Our results indicate the potential of NiNP/RPET NF for application in nano-based antibacterial medical systems.

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Background: Cardiovascular diseases, especially coronary artery problems, are the main causes of death. The aim of this study was to evaluate the expression of NOs and NOX2 in coronary artery patients after aerobic exercise and omega-3 intake.
Methods: The present study was a quasi-experimental study in which 32 men with coronary artery disease in the age range of 55 to 65 years were selected and randomly divided into 4 groups: control, exercise, omega-3, and omega-3 + exercise. The training program consisted of 8 weeks of intermittent running training, 3 sessions per week, with an intensity of 55 to 65% of the subjects' heart rate reserve and with an emphasis on gradual overload. Subjects consumed 1000 mg of omega-3 daily.
Results: There was a significant increase (P <0.0001) in the mean expression of the NOS gene in the exercise + omega-3 group compared to the control group. The mean ratio of NOX gene expression changes in the exercise group, omega-3, and the combination of exercise + omega-3 was significantly reduced compared to the control group (P <0.0001).
Conclusion: According to the results of the present study, the ability of exercise and omega-3 supplementation to reduce the level of oxidant stress and increase homeostasis control in coronary artery insufficiency shows an important molecular mechanism that underlies the benefits of these interventions.