Journal of Basic Research in Medical Sciences

Introduction: Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), is a bacterium responsible for upper gastrointestinal tract diseases. The 16s rRNA is a common H. pylori gene which are usually preferred for diagnosis purpose. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and abundance of 16s rRNA in fecal samples and also evaluate correlation between the level of 16s rRNA and activities of the cytokines, TNF-α and IL-1β, in serum. Materials and methods: The present study was performed on 84 subjects with digestion problems. Fecal and blood samples were collected and 16s rRNA gene was assayed using PCR. The serum levels of TNF-α and IL-1β levels were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Results: The results of the study revealed that there was a positive correlation between the 16s rRNA gene, H. pylori stool antigen (HPSA) and TNF-α cytokine. The study also noted that with every unit of increase in either of the quantified parameters of HPSA and IL-1β, the presence of 16s rRNA in fecal samples, showed a 2.98 and 1.01 times rise, respectively. Conclusion: According to the obtained results, it may be concluded that activities of cytokine TNF-a correlated well with the presence of HPSA and 16srRNA gene in the stomach’s lining. Increase in the activities of HPSA and TNF-a cytokine could be associated with the presence of 16s rRNA in feces.

Introduction: Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection has remained as a global health problem. Animal studies demonstrated the role of H. pylori oipA gene in the development of gastric cancer. The aim of this study was the cloning and expression of Helicobacter pylori oipA gene in a bicistronic vector harboring mice IL-18 gene. Materials and methods: The target gene encoding oipA was amplified from a codon-optimized clone by PCR, and then double-digested by restriction enzymes. The pIRES-Igk/mIL18/Fc plasmid was simultaneously digested by BstXI/NotI enzymes to elicit the eGFP segment. PCR product of oipA was inserted into pIRES-Igk/mIL18/Fc plasmid using T4 ligase. Transformation into DH5α strain was done. Cloning was confirmed by PCR, enzymatic digestion and sequencing. Expression of the oipA and IL-18 mRNA was assessed by means of TaqMan Real-time PCR. Results: Electrophoresis of PCR product, enzymatic digestion and sequencing showed that the H. pylori oipA gene was successfully cloned into pIRES-Igk/mIL18/Fc to generate mIL-18-pIRES2-oipA plasmid. The results of Real-time PCR confirmed the successful expression of both oipA and IL-18 in mouse macrophage cell line. Conclusion: Considering the role of oipA in pathogenesis of H. pylori and potent activity of IL-18 as a molecular adjuvant, the results of the present study showed that the expression of codon-optimized oipA gene in bicistronic vector including mouse IL-18 is successful. So, it could be considered as an appropriate genetic vaccine candidate for H. pylori in future investigations.

Abstract Introduction: Education and research are two thinking based processes. Nowadays, the main function of educational institutions is evaluated by thinking. This study aimed to determine the dominant thinking styles among medical and dental students of Ilam University of Medical Sciences (IUMS). Materials and methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on all medical and dental students of IUMS in the academic year of 2016-2017. Data was collected by Sternberg’s standard thinking style inventory and a demographic data questionnaire. Data analysis was carried out with the software SPSS 20 using descriptive statistical analysis methods and t-test. Results: In total, 497 students of IUMS participated in the study. Among whom 395 (79.5%) were medicals students and 102 (20.5%) were dental students. The findings showed significant differences between the legislative and executive thinking styles of medical and dental students (P=0.042 and P=0.024 respectively), more specifically, the mean score of legislative thinking style was found to be higher among dental students than that of medical students, and the opposite relation was found in the mean scores of executive thinking style. Comparison of mean scores of thinking style dimensions between medical and dental students showed significant differences in some but not all dimensions. Conclusion: Considering the differences found in thinking styles of medical and dental students and their effects in emergence of unique behavioral and decision-making characteristics in medical and dental students, educational planners and professors should attempt to adjust their teaching methods and professional approach according to students individual features in terms of thinking style and preferences so as to foster the growth and flourish of their thinking, academic, and clinical capabilities. The results of the study showed significant differences between the legislative and executive thinking styles of medical and dental students, also regarding the different dimensions of thinking styles of medical and dental students, some significant differences in some but not all dimensions were reported. Keywords: Thinking, Thinking style, Medical and dental students

Introduction: Burn is among the traumas that impose great physical and psychological damages to the injured people. Scientists still are looking for new treatments and methods for burn management that lack the defects of previous ones. Recently, the potential of probiotic bacteria for the treatment of skin disease and problems has been investigated. Considering that the effects of probiotics are strain-dependent, the aim of current study was to evaluate the effects of Lactobacillus rhamnosus (ATCC 7469) on the process of burn wound healing. Materials and methods: After induction of second-degree burn wounds on the back of rats, they were randomly divided into experimental, vehicle control, and negative control groups. The experimental groups received a bacterial ointment for 1, 3, 7, and 14 days. The vehicle control groups received Eucerin for durations like the experimental groups. The negative control groups received no treatment in the same days. The evaluation of wound healing was conducted macroscopically by computing of the healing percent and microscopically by Hematoxylin and Eosin staining of the tissue samples of the wound area on different days. Results: The wound healing percent in the experimental group, compared with control groups, significantly increased, until the day 7 of the experiments. Moreover, the microscopic results indicate that the bacteria may have some anti-inflammatory effects. Also, the bacteria increased the rate of fibroblastic migration and re-epithelialization in the wound area. Conclusion: Overall, L. rhamnosus (ATCC 7469) when used topically on the burn wounds may have some positive effects on the process of burn wound healing.

Introduction: Despite the importance of thyroid hormones in reproduction, there are only a few studies that focus on male infertility. The objective of this study was to evaluate semen parameters in patients with hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism. Materials and methods: Totally, 28 patients with thyroid disorders were evaluated for the semen parameters. Serum TSH and T4 concentrations were measured by ELISA. Complete semen analyses were performed based on WHO. Results: Pathozoospermia was seen in 32.14% of our patients. Two hyperthyroid patients and seven hypothyroid patients suffered sperm defects. None of pathozoospermia patients showed an alone sperm defects. Sperm multiple anomalies were our main findings. Conclusion: It seems that sperm characterizes strongly were affected. Although, we have a limited sample size, but sperm multiple abnormalities made our interest findings.

Introduction: One of the common problems in contemporary world is addiction and its side effects. Dependency and addiction due to drug consumption is a chronic disorder which is followed by cultural, psychological, social, and spiritual effects. The aim of the present research was comparing behavioral-cerebral systems with alexithymia among addictive and normal people. Materials and methods: The statistical population was all referred people to therapy centers of addiction in Ilam among which 40 cases were selected by accessible methods and also 40 cases of normal people without addiction background were selected based on their age, gender, education level, and married conditions by homogeneity procedure. Research method was comparative. Questionnaire of characterization by Wilson and questionnaire of Alexithymia by Toronto were used as research instrument to collect the data. Also, SPSS software and multi variable analysis were used to analysis the collected data. Results: The findings showed that activated systems of behavior and fight-flight in people with addiction background was more than normal people, while behavioral deterrent system activities in normal people was more than people with addiction background (P0.001). Conclusion: So, by identifying people that their behavioral activating system is more active than that of normal ones the risky group can be determined and then they can be benefited from behavioral and educational programs to be prevented from the likelihood of addiction in these groups. Also, cultivating capabilities of control and emotion regulation helps to prevent addiction and also helps people to adopt with changes and stress factors.

Introduction: Escherichia coli (E.coli) as a main cause of both nosocomial and community-acquired infections in humans have a relative potential to develop resistance. Nowadays, most infections caused by ESBL-producing E.coli (ESBLEC) had mostly been described as nosocomial acquired or nursing home related. In this study, we employed E-test assay to detect antibiotic resistance of E.coli strains and determine MIC of antibiotics. Materials and methods: Thirty E.coli strains gathered from Imam Khomeini hospital of Ilam, and cultured on TSB and bacterial suspension prepared by 0.5 µF concentration for E-test. Mueller Hinton agar and E-test strips of Amikacin, Cefepime, Ceftazidime, Ceftriaxone, Gentamicin, Meropenem, Nitrofurantoin, Piperacillin/Tazobactam, Tetracycline, Ticarcillin/ Clavulanic acid, Tobramycin, Trimethoprim were used Results: Resistance to Ceftriaxone, Tobramycin, Gentamicin, Ticarcillin/ Clavulanic, Amikacin were 19.8%, 26.4%, 23.3%, 62.7%, 70.3%, respectively. Conclusion: the results indicated, E.coli strains in this study were high sensitivity to Meropenem ,Nitrofuratoin, Ciprofloxacin , Ceftazidime, Cefepime.

Introduction: Spinal cord injuries (SCI) lead to permanent irreversible functional deficits. Poor prognosis of patients is the motivation of searching a treatment for the chronic injury. Planting stem cells provides us with a promising strategy. In the meanwhile, the use of olfactory ensheathing cells (OECs) has shown very good results. This study aims at evaluating the effect of transplanted OECs on functional recovery of acute SCI in rats. Materials and methods: In this study, eighteen adult male Wistar rats weighting approximately 210 ± 10 gr were used to study spinal cord injury. They were randomly divided into four groups: Sham (n = 3), Control (n = 6), Vehicle (n=3) and Treatment (n=6). In the Sham Group, only laminectomy was performed in the area of T9 spinal cord. In three groups of Control, vehicle and Treatment, after laminectomy, spinal cord contusion model was performed using the Weight drop technique. Immediately after the injury, 10μl Dulbecco's Modified Eagle Medium (DMEM) alone or with 10⁶ cells were injected to vehicle and Treatment Group animals. For culturing cells, the olfactory mucosa of 7-day-old male Wistar rats was used. Motor function of animals in all groups, was evaluated in the first 48 hours daily and then weekly for eight weeks. Results: Comparing the results of the second to eighth week of the study showed significant differences in the group receiving the OECs with the control group (P<0.05). Conclusion: The results indicate a positive influence of the olfactory ensheathing cells in functional improvement of spinal cord injury in the acute phase of injury.

Introduction: The involvement of secreted frizzled-related protein5 (SFRP5) and adiponectin, two important adipokines produced by adipocytes, in cardiovascular diseases demand further assessment. Therefore, in this study the relation of the adipokines and atherosclerosis was evaluated in Rat. Materials and methods: For the study, thirty male Wistar rats were divided into 2 groups (each group contain 15 rats): Control group, received a normal diet and the high cholesterol diet (HCD) group which received an additional 2% cholesterol and 0.5% cholic acid for 15 weeks. At the end of treatment, HCD-induced atheroma plaques were observed by hematoxylin and eosin staining of aortic tissue sections. Furthermore, serum levels of SFRP5 and adiponectin in the two groups of rats were measured by immunoassay and their relationships with the development of atherosclerotic plaques in the experimental group were analyzed. Results: The serum level of SFRP5 and adiponectin was significantly decreased in HCD rats compared with the control group (P

Introduction: Adipose tissue and inflammatory factors play important role in occurrence of atherosclerosis in overweight women. The present study aimed to investigate the effect of 8 weeks of aerobic exercise training on risk factors involved in atherosclerosis in overweight women. Materials and methods: For this, fourteen overweight women (mean ± standard deviation: body mass index 28.49 ± 3.28 k/m2 and body fat 35.01 ± 3.68%) conducted aerobic exercise training for 8 weeks (at intensity correspond with 65 to 80 % reserved heart rate). Before and after aerobic exercise training, fasting blood samples were taken and anthropometrics characteristics were measured. The data were analyzed using Paired sample t-test (P

Antifungals have always been considered as one of the astonishing discoveries of the 20th century. This is correct, but the real marvel is the development of antifungal resistance in hospitals, communities, and the environment concomitant with their use. Fungal infections have emerged as an important clinical threat, with significant associated morbidity and mortality. This study is designed to provide a comprehensive view of antifungal agents and related agents. Information was based on the expertise of some literatures. Over the past decades, the incidence and diversity of fungal infection has grown in association with an increasing number of immunocompromised patients. An understanding of the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamics properties of the classes of antifungal compounds is vital for the effective management of invasive fungal infections. This review provides a summary of the pharmacologic principles involved in treatment of fungal diseases. Clinical needs for novel antifungal agents have altered steadily with the rise and fall of AIDS-related mycoses, and the change in spectrum of fatal disseminated fungal infections that has accompanied change in therapeutic immunosuppressive therapies.

Introduction: Artemisia dracunculus L. (Tarragon) is one of the plants that uses as meal and remedy for a long time, and possesses many medicinal properties. In traditional medicine also has mentioned to its beneficial properties. A number of researches through in vitro and in vivo studies showed the pharmacological properties of this plant. This study was done for determining the effect of hydro-alcoholic extract of A. Dracunculus L. on some hematological parameters among mice. Materials and methods: In this study, 40 male mice were divided into five groups: a control, a placebo, and three treatment groups that were injected with 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg doses of hydro-alcoholic extract of tarragon every other day for 20 days. At the end of injections, the levels of WBC, RBC, lymphocytes, monocytes, and neutrophils were measured. Statistical analysis was done using SPSS software and analysis of variance (ANOVA) test. Results: The obtained results showed that there was no significant difference in amounts of WBC, RBC, and monocytes in the treatment groups in comparison with the control group. Lymphocytes showed significant decrease in groups of 100 and 200 mg/kg doses than the control group. The level of neutrophils showed significant increase in two treatment groups (100 and 200 mg/kg) than the control group. Conclusion: It can be concluded that the hydro-alcoholic extract of tarragon stimulates the production of neutrophils in this study which can be used as an immunostimulating agent.

Introduction: Congenital anomalies are a common cause of disability and mortality in newborns and their treatments involves high costs for the society. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of congenital anomalies and their causes. Materials and methods: This research was a descriptive-analytical study and the population included all the newborns in hospitals of the city of Ilam in 2011. Variables of abnormality type, birth status, and medical and genetic illness histories were included into the data collection forms. Data was analyzed through Chi-square tests and Fisher's exact test using SPSS software. Results: Of 460 neonates, 5.4 percent (25 cases) had died at birth and 3.7 percent (16 infants) were born with a birth defect. 43.8 percent of malformed babies had a family history. 31.3 % of the malformed babies had genetic syndromes, whose parents had consanguineous marriage. 18.8% of babies with defects in the central nervous system and cardiovascular system showed a similar percentage of disorder. The defect in the urinary system, head and neck each accounted for 12.5 percent. Conclusion: This study shows that consanguineous marriages can be the most common genetic cause of genetic syndromes.

Introduction: Depression has multifactorial characters including brain-behavioral disorders, alteration in cognitive psychomotor and emotional process. Millions of people are worldwide suffering from this illness. This disease happens in all ages of men and women. This research tries to introduce a traditional medication in comparison with common chemical antidepressant drugs. This experiment was designed to evaluate probably the antidepressant effect of Citrullus colocynthis fruit extraction. Materials and methods: Thirty-two male mice (Balb/c) was randomly divided to four groups (n=8 each). Animals adapted and treated to diazepam, imipramine, aqueous and hydro alcoholic extract of Citrullus colocynthis fruit. All administrations were done via intraperitoneal 0.2ml/animal. Plant material after grinding was extracted with ethanol and evaporated under reduced pressure. Tail suspension test was carried out to assay the antidepressant effect of plant extraction in animals. The test was carried on before, and as well as 30, 60 and 120 minutes after injections. Results: Our data indicated that after intraperitoneal administration of aqueous and ethanol extract, immobility duration exhibits statistically significant increase compared to agitation phase in all times after injection(P<0.05). Ethanol extract reduced statistically agitation time in 30, 60 and 120 min after injection compared to imipramine. Both aqueous and ethanol extract elevated immobility in minute 60(P<0.5). Conclusion: The present study suggested that Citrullus colocynthis extract could possess potential antidepressant and sedative effects which would be of therapeutic interest for using in the treatment of patients with depressive disorders. We suggest more research in this regard.

Introduction: Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is one of the most causes of neonatal infections. The bacterium colonizes genitourinary tracts of pregnant women and transmits to infants. The aim of this study was investigating colony PCR and culture methods to detection of GBS in pregnant women. Materials and methods: Hundred pregnant women, at the 35th and 37th weeks of pregnancy, were selected from the Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit of the Moatazedi and Shahid Chamran Hospitals in Kermanshah province. Specimens were collected from vaginal introitus and investigated by selective culture and colony PCR methods. Then, antibiotic resistance tests were performed according to the latest guidelines of Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI). Results: Prevalence of GBS colonization was shown to be 5% and 6% by the culture and colony PCR methods, respectively. Also, resistance rate to erythromycin, penicillin, vancomycin, and the clindamycin were determined to be 50%, 16.66%, 16.66% and 33.33 %, respectively. Moreover, the highest resistance was for erythromycin and the appropriate antibiotics were penicillin and then vancomycin. Conclusion: A higher prevalence of GBS colonization in pregnant women in the Kermanshah city of Iran was detected using colony PCR method compared to culture method.

Introduction: Resistance of pathogenic organisms to countenance antibiotics has become a worldwide problem with serious consequences on the treatment of infectious diseases. The aim of this study was to evaluate antibiotic resistance and also the detection of transferred antibiotic resistance by plasmid in clinical Proteus isolates. Materials and methods: A total of 250 urine samples were collected from patient suffered from urinary tract infection (UTI), and cultured on blood agar and MacConkey's agar. Positive cultures were diagnosed by routine microbiological and biochemical tests. Antibiotic susceptibility test was performed by disc diffusion method. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was evaluated by agar dilution method, and also antibiotic resistance mediated by plasmid was determined using transformation of plasmids to plasmid free Escherichia coli ATCC 25922 as competent cell. Results: Among 200 samples, 120 samples (60%) were collected from female and 80 samples (40%) were isolated from males. Out of 25 species (12.5%) were diagnosed as Proteus. Al isolates were resistant to ampicillin (maximum frequency), only 16% of isolates were resistance to amikacin (minimum resistance). Totally, 66.66% of Proteus isolates harbored plasmids. All plasmid containing P. mirabilis isolates were able to transferred resistance to amoxicillin, ampicillin, while rate of resistance to other antibiotics were as amikacin (88%), gentamycin (72%), tetracycline (50%), tobramycin (48%), ceftazidime, cefotaxime (32%) and ciprofloxacin (22%). Conclusion: Widespread use of antibiotics cause to spread or emerge antibiotic resistances among bacteria by R–plasmids transfer.

Introduction: The major histocompatibility complex (MHC) is a group of cell surface proteins that are essential for recognizing foreign molecules in human and other mammals. The physiologic function of MHC molecules is the presentation of peptides to T cells. In this study, we evaluated the purification of a class II MHC molecule (HLA-DR) from a human Burkitt′s lymphoma cell line; Daudi. Materials and methods: We described a simple procedure for purifying human HLA molecules from the cells lysate. As a representative model, HLA-DR was purified from Daudi cell line. The cell membrane was solubilized by a buffer contained NP-40 detergent. Subsequently, the isolation of the membrane antigen was carried out by affinity chromatography method using mouse anti-human HLA-DR monoclonal antibody. The size and the specificity of the purified antigen were determined by Bradford and ELISA methods, respectively. Results: The purified HLA antigen was obtained in approximately 20-30 micrograms in each run of chromatography. Additionally, ELISA method demonstrated the HLA-DR specificity of the purified protein. Conclusion: The results indicated that affinity purification of HLA-DR antigen by means of specific monoclonal antibody is a simple and fast procedure for obtaining the purified antigen.

Introduction: Test anxiety is a common phenomenon and the problematic concern of the educational system. Scented essentials like lavender (angustifolia) oil and Citrus aurantium (orange flower) oil have positive impact on people's physical and mental condition and anxiety. This study was designed to compare and evaluate the effects of lavender essential oil aroma and Citrus aurantium essential oil aroma on test anxiety. Materials and methods: This double-blind clinical trial study was carried out on 80 female students from the Faculty of Paramedics Sciences, Gorgan city in 2013. Students were randomly and equally assigned to the two lavender or Citrus aurantium groups. All students smelled oil for a period of 60 seconds. To stay scents, some oil was rubbed on the candidates foreheads using an applicator. To evaluate the level of anxiety and stress before the intervention, Sarason Anxiety Test, and to measure the effect of essence after intervention, Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) questionnaire were used. Data were analyzed using SPSS16 software and the independent and paired T-tests. Results: The mean anxiety in students in lavender group dropped from (5.67±2.05) to (3.9± 1.82) and in Citrus aurantium group decreased from (5.25±2.06) to (3.97±2). This difference was statistically significant (P <0.001). The intervention had a significant effect on heart rate; however, had no effect on the blood pressure. Conclusion: According to the results, lavender and citrus aurantium scents had positive effects on students' test anxiety and can be used as a cheap and good psychological care in treatment support systems to control and reduce anxiety with least side effects.

Introduction: Advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) suggest a highly reactive, nonspecific oxidant namely hydroxyl radical (OH•), that oxidize a wide range of pollutants fast and non-selective in wastewater and water. Materials and methods: In this work, the nitrogen-doped titanium dioxide nanoparticles were primed by sol-gel method, characterized by X-ray diffraction and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), for the degradation of Acid Red 40 (AR 40) solution in water. The effectiveness of the treatment method applied for the degradation of AR 40 based on AOPs was investigated. Results: The three various key parameters were optimized by using response surface modeling, namely: pH, TiO2-N concentration and the initial AR 40 concentrations. The optimized values were obtained at pH = 11, TiO2-N concentration = 0.09 g/L, and the initial AR 40 concentration = 19 mg/L. Conclusion: Under the optimum conditions, performance of photocatalytic degradation reaches 92.47% in 1 hr. Kinetic constant was evaluated using first-order equation to obtain the rate constant, K.

Introduction: Diabetes is one of the usual medical problems that had an important negative effect on patient’s health. Researches demonstrate that there is a wide gap between recommended medical actions and received care by patients with diabetes. The aim of study was to assess the quality of care provided to patients with type 2 diabetes. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out among 180 people with type 2 diabetes in diabetic’s clinics using convenience sampling method in Tabriz, Iran in 2011. Using a questionnaire we assessed the reported adherence to minimum recommended annual care for 23 processes indicators based on Iranian Diabetes Guidelines. Results: The proportions of the participants who received recommended annual care for all three top clinical and all six top lifestyle indicators were 82.26% and 43.96%, respectively. For lifestyle and management indicators, reported adherence rates to guidelines were low (38.9% for medication review, 67.7% for self-management evaluation, 55% for physical activity review, and 58.3% for nutrition consultation). From the participants' perspective, most of the participants (87%) had well-controlled diabetes. Conclusion: A substantial proportion of people with type 2 diabetes indicated receiving suboptimal care and there is a notable gap between their expectations and what they have actually received in most aspects of the provided care.

Introduction: Spinal cord injury (SCI) is one of the most serious clinical diseases, which not only affects the patient's physical and mental status, but its effects will be spread to family and community. After severe spinal cord injury, astrocytes of the central nervous system (CNS) become reactive astrocytes, and play the main role of glial scar formation. The scar is a major obstacle to regeneration of axons in the spinal cord. However, the studies have found that over time, a spontaneous partial motor recovery is observed in animals with injury without intervention. Thus, in this study, the recovery of animals with spinal cord injury was assessed after 12 weeks. Materials and methods: In this study, 12 adult male Wistar rats weighing approximately 265±15gr were used to assess spinal cord injury and randomly divided into 3 groups: normal control (n = 3), sham (n = 3), injury (n = 6). Healthy animals in the normal control group received no laminectomy or injury, and laminectomy with or without contusion model using weight drop in segment T10 of spinal cord were carried out in injury and sham groups, respectively. Locomotor function of animals in all groups were evaluated by BBB test at the first 48 hours per day and then weekly for 12 weeks. Results: Comparison of the results of motor evaluation from the second week to the twelfth week of the group with injury without treatment showed a relative functional recovery as the BBB score of animals from 1.4 in the second week after the injury reached to 6.5 in the twelfth week. Conclusion: The results indicate a spontaneous partial recovery in injured animals without intervention.

Introduction: Telomeres are DNA portions that are located on the two ends of the chromosome. Telomeres play an important role in cellular life. Exercise is one of the factors that contributes to their control. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effect of 8 weeks of high intensity interval training (HIIT) on telomere length and telomerase activity in non-athletic young men. Materials and methods: 30 inactive students were selected as sample and randomly divided into two groups of exercise (15 people) and control (15 people) in this semi-experimental study. The exercise group performed 8 weeks of HIIT exercise in 3 sessions per week with an intensity of 150 to 175% of their maximum power (Pmax). Control group subjects did not do regular sport activities. To measure telomere length and telomerase activity, 10 ml of blood was taken from the brachial vein of the subjects 24 hours before the first and after the last exercise session. The dependent t was used to analyze intra-group and independent t for within-group differences. Results: The findings of this study showed that 8 weeks of HIIT training in non-athlete young men resulted in a significant increase in telomere length (P = 0.001) and telomerase activity (P = 0.001). Conclusion: It seems that HIIT can alter telomerase activity and telomere length. Therefore, these training may have a positive effect on cell biology.

Introduction: In this study, using the phenotypic and genotypic methods, oxacillin susceptibility in Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) strains isolated from patients at two government hospitals in Ilam, Iran was tested. Materials and methods: Out of 200 S. aureus isolates from different human clinical specimens consisting of blood (31%), wound (20%), urine (21%), catheters (7%), sputum (12%), others (9%) were collected. The methicillin resistant S. aureus isolates were investigated using disk diffusion methods and oxacillin (1μg) and cefoxitin (30μg), on MuellerHinton agar were used, and MecA and vanA genes were detected by PCR. In addition, the isolates were tested for their antibiogram profiles. Results: Among 200 S. aureus strains included in this study, 35.96% were MRSA. The percentage of resistance by disk diffusion method was as below: penicillin 85.96%, vancomycin 0%, ampicillin 87.71%, gentamicin 48.25% erythromycin 54.25%, clindamycin 32.45%, amikacin 21.05%, ciprofloxacin 42.10%, tetracycline 51.75% and co-trimoxazole 42.10%. Phenotyping method by disk diffusion method using oxacillin and cefoxitin for detecting of MRSA showed sensitivity and specificity of about 33.33% and 35.96%, respectively. Presence of MecA and vanA genes in MRSA isolates by PCR were 35.96% and 0%, respectively. The oxacillin and cefoxitin disk diffusion methods showed 92.68% and 100% sensitivity, respectively, and 98.8% specificity. Conclusion: Our finding showed that, the cefoxitin disk diffusion method is better in compared to the oxacillin disk diffusion similar to results from detecting of MecA gene in PCR as a golden test.

Introduction: Mental health is a branch of science focused on promoting welfare, social welfare, and life health which is related to all periods (from birth to death) and aspects of life (family environment, school, university, appointment, and society). Personality is a collection of mental characteristics that consistently exists within individuals and influences their behaviors and thoughts. Self-control as one of the unique personality characteristics varies from one person to another. Materials and methods: The present study is a correlational descriptive study. The target population of this research includes all graduate students of public and clinical psychology studying in Islamic Azad University of Ilam during academic year of 93-94. According to statistics there were approximately 536 students in this field. Out of this number 224 students were selected through simple random sampling. Measurement instruments included: Tangney and Baumeister (2004) Self-Control Scale, NEO Five-Factor Inventory, and Goldberg General Health Questionnaire. For the analysis of findings of this study Kalmogorov–Smiranov test, correlation, and regression analysis were run through statistical software of SPSS. Results: Results of this research showed that personal characteristics and self-control predicted 86% of variance that is, significantly predicted the level of mental health among students. Results of correlation revealed significant relationship between self-control and mental health. In addition, there were significant relation between personality traits and self-control. In other words, it can be said that personality characteristics have a substantial role in predicting mental health and there is also significant relationship between the variables under study. Conclusion: It can be said that self-control is one of the most important personality characteristics that influences individuals’ mental health.

Introduction: Cesarean, as a major abdominal surgery, if done without a medical indication, may impose numerous complications on the mothers and the babies and increase frequency of cesarean deliveries in subsequent pregnancies. This study aimed to predict the behavioral tendencies of pregnant women in selecting their delivery approaches, based on the theory of planned behavior (TPB). Materials and methods: This cross-sectional study was performed on 100 pregnant women referred to healthcare centers of Kermanshah city (western Iran). A researcher-made questionnaire was applied, based on TPB constructs including attitudes, perceived behavioral controls, subjective norms, and behavioral tendencies. To analyze the data, Pearson correlation, Spearman, s regression, and ANOVA were used via the SPSS statistical software, version 20. Results: The average age of pregnant woman was 23.7±3.93 years old. The results demonstrated a significant correlation between the subjective norms and behavioral tendencies (r=0.335, P=0.001). A significant relationship was seen between the perceived behavioral controls and tendencies (r=0.277, P=0.004). A significant relationship was found between the perceived behavioral control and the attitude (r=0.293, P=0.002). The results of the regression results demonstrated that the subjective norms and perceived behavioral controls can significantly predict 14.1 percent of changes in the variable of tendencie. Conclusion: The findings indicate the strength of the variable of subjective norms as the most effective factor in predicting the delivery approach; therefore, systematic and planned training seems necessary, not only for the pregnant women, but also the individuals affecting this group. Thus, to reduce caesarean sections, physicians, as an effective factor, need to be urged to boost natural childbirth.

Introduction: There are general concerns about the hazardous impacts of the cell phones radiation on the human health. In this study, the structural and biochemical changes of the mice kidney were assessed after cell phone exposure in. Materials and methods: A total of 40 Balb/C mice were randomly divided into the control and experimental groups. The experimental group exposed to cell phone devices with a carrier frequency of 915 MHz, for 4 h a day during 60 consecutive days. After mobile phone exposure, the blood samples and also the renal tissues were taken out for histological and biochemical examinations. Results: The histological results revealed no light microscopic changes in the kidneys between two groups. Necrosis of the renal tubules epithelium was seen in some of the the sections belonging to the both control and experimental groups. Also, in the mice exposed to cell phone fields, the serum levels of creatinine, urea, chloride and total protein were not significantly altered. Although the serum levels of sodium and bicarbonate showed a significant increase, but the activity of alkaline phosphatase revealed no significant changes in comparison with control group. In addition, there are no morphometric, ultra-structural or light microscopic changes in the kidneys between two groups. In the treated animals; the mitochondria were often deformed in the shape and the cytoplasm of the renal tubules was folded in an abnormal manner. Conclusion: Based on the study, it could conclude that there is no toxic effect on the mice kidneys after exposure to cell phone radiation.

Introduction: Theory of mind is one of the most important aspects of cognitive faculty. The theory of mind is impaired in individuals who suffer from mental disorders like autistic children. The ‘autistic-like’ behaviors also have been reported in the congenitally blind children. This study was conducted to examine the presence or absence of theory of mind and its function in congenitally blind children. Materials and methods: A number of 20 individuals containing 10 bilingual congenitally blind children from Baghcheban elementary school of Ilam city as a case group and 10 sighted ones as a control group were selected. Three kinds of false belief cognitive tests appropriate for the congenitally blind children were designed. The collected data were analyzed using one sample Kolmogorov–Smirnov test, independent t-test along with Levenn test and one-way and two-way Analysis of Variance. Results: Considering the performance of congenitally blind children in false belief tasks, the blindness just had effect on the story narration task (P0.05). Conclusion: The findings showed only the story narration task was affected by blindness, because this task was more dependent on visual sense. Therefore, blindness results in delay in evolution of theory of mind. To fix this delay, the congenitally blind children should be exposed to further tactile and olfactory inputs.

Introduction: The aim of this research was to study the effect of a 6-week supplemented diet on increasing bone density by measuring calcium, phosphorus and bone mineral density (BMD) in male rats. Materials and methods: In this experimental study, 24 Wistar male rats, aged between 15 and 20 days, were selected. The rats were randomly divided into 3 groups: immune system supplement (ISS), ISS plus exercise and control. Daily swimming was performed by time-increasing (starting from ten minutes and ten minutes was added each day and was fixed at sixty minutes). Supplements strengthening the immune system containing calcium and phosphorus were given to rats (5g/kg/day). After six weeks, BMD was measured using bone densitometer. Animals were anesthetized with ketamine and blood samples were gathered in order to separate their serum. The serum samples were used to measure calcium, phosphorus by the ELISA method. Results: The results showed that in both groups (ISS plus exercise and ISS), BMD was higher than the control group. The highest level of calcium, phosphorus and BMD was seen in the group whose members were ISS plus exercise group. In contrast, the least amount of the mentioned markers was reported in the control group. Conclusion: The results indicate a small but positive effect of ISS on whole body BMD in male rat; also results indicate the combination of exercise and proper nutrition was more effective on increasing the bone density in comparison with the proper nutrition sedentary group.

Introduction: By increasing the scientific focus on myelination, identifying factors that influence the myelination is an important goal for brain health. There are some studies that regular exercise improves myelin sheath and neuronal regeneration. However, the effects of exercise intensities on the myelination remain unclear. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to compare the effect of high-intensity interval (HIIT) versus low-intensity continuous training (LICT) on myelin synthesis-related genes in hippocampus of C57BL/6 mice. Materials and methods: Male C57BL/6 mice (n = 30) were randomly assigned to 3 groups: control (C), Interval training (IT), and Continuous training (CT). Training programs on the treadmill were performed for 8 weeks and then, the hippocampus of animals was analyzed for the expression of myelin basic protein (MBP) and proteolipid protein (PLP) genes. Data were analyzed using ANOVA. Results: The result showed that HIIT program significantly increased the mRNA levels of MBP and PLP in comparison with LICT and Control groups (P<0.05), while no significant differences were observed among the LICT and Control groups (P>0.05). Conclusion: Our results showed that HIIT had a more efficient by improving the expression of MBP and PLP genes compared to LICT in the hippocampus

Introduction: Cervical cancer is the third most common tumor among women. Surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy are common treatments, however high stage tumors have frequently poor prognosis. Nowadays, the epigenetic reversion introduced as an efficient strategy of treatment of cervical cancer. In the process, inhibitors of DNA methyltransferase (DNMT) induce re-expression of tumor suppressor genes. Among these inhibitors, disulfiram (DSF) has been suggested as non-nucleoside analogous. In this research, we evaluated the epigenetic effect of DSF on demethylation of the tumor suppressor gene, RASSF1A, in Hela cell line. Materials and methods: Hela cells were cultured and treated with different doses from 2.5 to 37.5µM during 24, 48 and 72 hours. MTT assay was carried out to find half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50). The methylation specific PCR (MSP) assay was applied to evaluate methylation pattern. Results: The IC50 of DSF was determined at the 2.5, 12.5, and 15µM after72 hours. The MSP results showed partial demethylation at mentioned concentrations after 72h but unmethylated band was not observed after 24h. Conclusion: Our findings indicated that, IC50 of DSF exerted a biphasic effect in Hela cell line and at least 72 hours treatment is needed for the epigenetic reversion of DSF on RASSF1Ain Hela cell line.

Introduction: Crimean Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) is a Zoonosis disease. The aim of this study was to examine the effect of educational intervention on practice improvement of employees in healthcare centers and meat distribution centers of Ilam province in relation to Crimean Congo hemorrhagic fever. Materials and methods: Participants in present quasi-experimental study were 200 employees of healthcare centers and 75 workers of meat distribution centers that were selected through simple random sampling. Data were collected at baseline and 6-weeks after intervention using two 38-item and 50-item questionnaires. Data were analyzed by the SPSS software. P<0.05 were considered to be statistically significant. Results: Before the educational intervention, 20.6% of the healthcare centers employees had poor knowledge, 61.8% and 17.6% had average and good knowledge, respectively. After educational intervention, these percentages were 2%, 22.1% and 76%; in that order. The workers’ knowledge level in centers of meat processing-distribution before training was 64% poor, 34.7% average, and 1.3% good; but after education, the knowledge levels reached to 5.3%, 45.3% and 49.3%; respectively (P<0.05). Moreover, Attitude of employees in healthcare centers and meat distribution centers significantly increased after intervention (P<0.05). But, there were not significant changes in performance of two groups before and after educational intervention Conclusion: The results of present study showed the effect of educational intervention on improvement the knowledge, attitude of employees in healthcare and meat distribution centers. So, implementation of an educational program for employees at a wider scale could promote their health.

Introduction: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is now seen as a worldwide epidemic disease with high prevalence. Exercise training (ET) is known to promote beneficial changes in diabetic patients. The aim of this study was to compare the impact of continuous and intermittent aerobic training on glucose-4 transporter protein (GLUT-4) levels and insulin sensitivity in diabetic rats. Materials and methods: This research was an experimental and interventional study. A number of 60 male rats weighing 180 to 310 grams and 13 weeks old were divided into six groups: healthy control, healthy continuous, healthy intermittent, diabetic control, diabetic continuous, and diabetic intermittent groups. The exercise protocol in both continuous and intermittent groups was aerobic training for six weeks which was conducted considering overload principle. The data were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance test in P< 0.05 level. Results: The results showed that despite the significant difference between insulin resistance and GLUT4 level among diabetic rats in different groups compared to control group, there was no significant difference between the impact of continuous and intermittent training on these indices (P=1.00). Conclusion: Through increasing the GLUT4 protein content, the continuous and intermittent training improved insulin resistance.

Introduction: Cell transplantation is one of the main strategies for spinal cord injury repair. As OECs of the olfactory mucosa can be obtained by simple biopsy in all individuals without affecting their smell sensation, OECs considered as a promising candidate for autologous transplantation in the nervous system injury, especially for spinal cord repair. Thereby in the current study OECs were cultured from olfactory mucosa of 7 days old rats' pups and their purity was examined by flow-cytometry after simultaneous double staining for p75 and GFAP markers. Materials and methods: 7 days old Wistar rats' pups were deeply anesthetized by ketamine / xylazine (60/6mg/Kg). Then the nasal cavity was opened sagittally and the olfactory mucosa was separated from posterior part of nasal septum and at last OECs were obtained from lamina properia of olfactory mucosa and were cultured. The cultured cells were simultaneously immunolabeled for p75 and GFAP markers and finally purity of cultured cells assessed by flow-cytometry. Results: cultured OECs demonstrated two different morphologies, a spindle shape Schwann-like and an astrocyte-like OECs with flat sheet-like morphology. In addition, simultaneous immunolabeling for p75 and GFAP markers of OECs exhibited OECs were positive for both markers at the same time. The flow-cytometry results displayed that 87.9±2.4% of cells were p75/ GFAP double positive cells,1.05±0.4 only p75 positive and 5.8±1.5% were single positive for GFAP. Conclusion: Purity of cultured OECs in our study is probably more than 87.9% by flow- owing to p75+/S100+ and GFAP+/S100+ olfactory ensheathing cells were not counted. Thus the culture procedure of this study seems to be a good protocol for OECs purifying and cell therapy in CNS damages.