Journal of Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences
Year:2021 | Volume:30 | Issue:192|Papers Count:20

Background and purpose: Studies showed that biocompatible and biodegradable materials in tissue engineering can be used to heal wounds. The aim of this study was to fabricate polyurethane/royal jelly/hyaluronic acid scaffold with suitable biological properties for wound healing using electrospinning method. Materials and methods: In this applied experimental study, to make a nanofiber scaffold, 10% by weight/weight of polyurethane was dissolved at room temperature for 2 hours. Then, royal jelly (in different ratios) and hyaluronic acid (1% by w/w) were added to the polyurethane solution and electrospinning was performed. For biological evaluation, in vitro and finally in vivo analyses were performed. Results: Polyurethane scaffold containing 1% w/w of hyaluronic acid and 6% w/w of royal jelly was fabricated by electrospinning method. Scanning electron microscope images showed bead-free uniform fibers. The diameter of scaffold fibers was 546. 8 nm. The contact angle of the scaffold was 51. 610 indicating the hydrophilic properties of the scaffold. Moreover, the scaffold did not show any toxicity. Royal jelly improved cell proliferation and increased the cell adhesion of the scaffold. In the in vivo analysis, the wound healing process in the presence of the prepared scaffold was 92. 21% after 14 days. Conclusion: Electrospun polyurethane scaffold containing 1% w/w of hyaluronic acid and 6% w/w of royal jelly was studied for the first time and in vitro and in vivo studies showed that this scaffold can be a suitable candidate in skin tissue engineering and wound healing.

Background and purpose: The aim of this study was to bioinformatically and experimentally evaluate the effect of melatonin on the expression levels of UBE2W and SSX2IP genes in melatonin treated Human Hepatocellular carcinoma G2 (HepG2) cancer cell line. UBE2W encodes a protein that promotes ubiquitination of Fanconi anemia complementation group proteins and may be important in the repair of DNA damage. SSX2IP belongs to an adhesion system, involved in cell movement and acts as a centrosome maturation factor. Materials and methods: At first, as a bioinformatics tool, MATLAB 2018a software was employed to evaluate the UBE2W and SSX2IP genes expression levels using microarray data. Then, after designing and preparing the primers, MTT and Real-time PCR were carried out in three replicates. Results: MTT assay showed that the viability of cancer cell significantly decreased in melatonin treated group (P≤ 0. 01). The IC50 value was estimated to be 2080 μ M for 48 hours, but no significant changes were seen in the survival of human normal cells (HUVEC-C) (P≥ 0. 05). Real-time PCR proved that the expression levels of both genes increased (P≥ 0. 05 in 24h and P≤ 0. 05 in 48h) in melatonin treated cells compared to un-treated group, which was in accordance with bioinformatics analysis. Conclusion: Our study showed that UBE2W and SSX2IP genes could be used as therapeutic target genes for Hepatocellular carcinoma. However, complementary studies are needed to prove current findings.

Background and purpose: T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) is a type of blood malignancy caused by changes in the precursors of T lymphocyte cells. The PTEN gene is one of the most common tumor suppressor genes that mutates in most human cancers, including T-ALL. Therefore, it is important to identify miRNAs that target the PTEN gene in T-ALL. For this purpose, in the present study, miRNAs targeting PTEN gene in T-ALL patients were examined. Materials and methods: The miRNAs targeting PTEN was predicted and selected using bioinformatics. A total of 40 plasma samples were collected from T-ALL patients and healthy individuals. After RNA extraction and synthesis of cDNA, the expression levels of predicted miRNA and PTEN were assessed by Real time PCR in REST 2009. Statistical analysis was performed in SPSS V16 and P<0. 05 were considered significant. Results: Bioinformatics showed that miR-1297 target the PTEN gene. Compared to healthy individuals, in T-ALL patients, the expression levels of miR-1297 and PTEN gene in the plasma significantly increased (45. 93, P= 0. 001) and decreased (0. 191, P= 0. 001), respectively. Conclusion: The present study showed that miR-1297 is likely to target the PTEN gene. Therefore, miR-1297 could serve as a new and non-invasive biomarker in diagnosis and treatment of T-ALL.

Background and purpose: Salvia virgata Jacq has antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antinociceptive, antispasmodic, and healing effects. The aim of this study was to prepare and antiperspirant clinical evaluation of aerial gel formulation of this plant. Materials and methods: The aerial parts of the plant were collected from Hezarjarib forest in Mazandaran, spring 2017. The samples were crushed, dried and extracted with 70% ethanol. The amount of total flavonoids of the extract was investigated by spectrophotometric method of Aluminum Chloride with Quercetin standard. For antiperspirant clinical study, 5% gel formulation of dried extract was prepared. The gel was formulated by carbopol 980, glycerin, methyl, propylparaben, triethanolamine, and 5% dried plant extract. Then, physicochemical and microbial properties of the product, including stability, consistency, viscosity, dispersibility, transparency, color, odor, and bacteria growth were investigated in general and specific culture media. After preparation, in this randomized double-blind study, the products and placebos were administered to the volunteers (twice daily). Hyperhidrosis Disease Severity Scale (HDSS) was completed and clinical indicators were evaluated. Results: In this study, the extract yield and total flavonoid content of the extract were 39. 88% and 49. 83 mg/g, respectively. In addition, 1% carbopol formulation had good physicochemical properties and significant difference was seen in the efficacy of the drug between the intervention and placebo group (P<0. 05). Conclusion: According to current study, Salvia virgata Jacq is suitable in treatment of hyperhidrosis.

Background and purpose: Numerous drugs have been suggested to control pediatric migraine headaches, but there are limited numbers of randomized controlled trials to prove their efficacy. The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy of Propranolol + Cinnarizine and Propranolol + placebo in controlling migraine headaches in Children. Materials and methods: A double-blind, placebo-controlled randomized clinical trial was performed in 90 eligible children aged 6-14 years of age attending Shiraz Imam Reza clinic, 2018. They were randomly assigned into either an intervention group (n=45) or a control group (n=45). Intervention group received Propranolol + Cinnarizine and control group received Propranolol + placebo. The frequency, duration, and severity of headaches were recorded for two months. Data analysis was carried out applying paired samples t-test and independent samples t-test. Results: The mean age of children was 10 ± 2. 6 years old. A positive family history of migraine was found in more than 70% of the participants. There was about 73% decrease in monthly mean frequency of headaches in both groups compared to baeline (reduction from 15 times to 4 times in intervention group and from 11 times to 3 times in control group). Also, mean duration and intensity of headaches decreased by 60% and 50%, respectively, in both groups compared to the baseline (P<0. 001). There were no significant differences in mean frequency, duration, and severity of headaches within the first or second month between the two groups (P>0. 12). Conclusion: Combination of Propranolol and Cinnarizine showed no additional effect on controlling pediatric migraine headaches compared to Propranolol alone.

Background and purpose: Multiple sclerosis (MS) affects own physical function and body image. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of expressive writing on body image in women with MS. Materials and methods: In this randomized trial, the Solomon four-group design was employed. The study was carried out in 116 women attending an MS clinic in Tehran, Iran 2019. The participants were randomly assigned to two subgroups of control (A1 and A2) and two subgroups of intervention (B2 and B1). Pretest and posttest were done in A2 and B2 while for A1 and B1only posttest was performed. Expressive writing including morning pages, meeting the inner child, and creative assignments were carried out for six weeks. The control group received routine care. Fisher Body Focus Questionnaire was completed at pretest in A2 and B2 and at posttest in all groups (immediately after the intervention, and at weeks four and eight). Data analysis was done in SPSS V26. Results: The mean scores for body image in B2 were 145. 65± 19. 89 at pretest, 156. 89± 9. 54 immediately after the intervention, 158. 16± 8. 92 at week four, and 153. 96± 8. 27 at week eight. In A2, the mean score at these times were 144. 96± 7. 17, 145. 55± 5. 10, 145. 28± 7. 84, 145. 00± 9. 15, respectively. Expressive writing significantly improved body image in B2 at immediately and four weeks after the intervention compared to pretest (P˂ 0. 001). There were significant differences between the control group and intervention group at immediately after (P=0. 002) and four weeks (P=0. 03) after the intervention. Conclusion: Expressive writing could be effective in improving body image in women with MS.

Background and purpose: Non-traumatic or spontaneous supratentorial hemorrhage (ICH) is a condition that may be difficult to diagnose and treat. In this study, we decided to determine certain criteria for hospitalization of patients with non-traumatic supratentorial ICH in Intensive Care Unit (ICU). Materials and methods: This cross-sectional study was performed in Mashhad Ghaem Hospital 2019. Patients with primary non-traumatic supratentorial ICH were studied. Demographic information, main complaint, comorbidities and comorbid symptoms, and level of consciousness of patients at the time of referral (FOUR and GCS criteria) were recorded. Data analysis was carried out in SPSS V21. Results: Patients (n=126) were studied based on the need for ICU admission (n= 84) or other admissions (n= 42). Older patients were 0. 955 times more likely to be admitted to ICU and patients with increase in level of consciousness at arrival were 0. 812 times less prone to be admitted to ICU. We found ICU admission 10. 29 times higher in patients with intraventricular hemorrhage. Those with Babinski reflex were 0. 14 times less likely to be admitted to ICU. Moreover, probability of ICU admission was 0. 098 times less in patients with reduced four-limb force. Mortality rate was significantly higher in patients admitted to ICU (45%) than others (26. 2%) (P= 0. 036). Conclusion: Current study could not provide a model for predicting the admission of ICH patients to ICU or other wards, so, developing criteria for ICU admission in these patients requires further research.

Background and purpose: Quality of life among traumatic brain injury patients is of great importance in having more effective treatment. This study aimed at investigating the relationship between quality of life after traumatic brain injury and demographic characteristics. Materials and methods: In this cohort study, the statistical population included 409 patients with traumatic brain injury attending Sari Imam Khomeini Hospital, 2010-2014, of whom 97 were selected via purposeful sampling after three years. The 36-Item Short Form Health Survey questionnaire (SF-36) was administered and demographic characteristics were recorded using a researcher-made questionnaire. Data analysis was carried out in SPSS V19. Results: The patients (n=409) included 67% men and 70. 1% were married. There were 59. 8% over 30 years of age and 84. 5% were living in city. Quality of life after traumatic brain injury was significantly associated with gender. But, there were no significant relationship between quality of life after traumatic brain injury and age groups (P=0. 366), education (P=0. 379), marital status (P=0. 342), and place of residence (P=0. 118). Conclusion: Traumatic brain injury as a long-term pain influences the quality of life of patients, therefore, it should be considered in health-care planning.

Background and purpose: Job burnout is one of the major reasons for frequent job changes that creates physical and mental problems and reduces efficiency and at workplace. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between the quality of working life and job burnout in a large sample of health workers. Materials and methods: The present study was part of the first stage of Health Cohort of Staff in Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, performed in 1274 participants. The WHOQOLBREF and the Maslach Job Burnout Inventory (1985) were administered. Data were analyzed using STATA applying Shapiro Wilk, Spearman correlation coefficient, and Linear Regression Analysis. Results: There was a significant inverse relationship between the quality of working life and job burnout (r =-0. 234, P= 0. 001). Among the dimensions of quality of life, only t corresponding to the beta of physical health (r=-0. 260) was found to be significant at the error level of less than 5% (P=0. 026). Significant inverse relationship were seen between quality of life, emotional fatigue, and depersonalization (r=-0. 117, P= 0. 001 and r=-0. 080, P= 0. 004, respectively) and a significant direct relationship was observed between quality of life and individual performance (r= 0. 116, P= 0. 001). Conclusion: According to the inverse relationship between job burnout and quality of life, authorities should aim at identifying the factors associated with lower quality of working life, and especially improve physical health to prevent job burnout and ultimately increase productivity.

Background and purpose: Recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS) is one of the most common oral mucosal diseases. The etiology of RAS is unknown, however, some factors are considered to be involved in its occurrence, including genetic factors, trauma, menstruation, stress, anxiety, etc. Mental disorders such as stress and anxiety play a key role in the onset and recurrence of RAS lesions. The purpose of this research was to study the effect of mental health and oral health-related quality of life in patients with RAS. Materials and methods: This case-control study was performed in 270 people, including 135 males and 135 females. The participants were investigated in two groups; the case group (n= 64 with RAS, 30 males and 34 females) and healthy controls (n=105). Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP)-14 and General Health Questionnaire-28 (GHQ-28) were completed by both groups. Data analysis was done in SPSS V24. Results: Oral health-related quality of life in patients with RAS was significantly lower than the control group in all aspects (P<0. 001). Mental health status was significantly different between the case group and controls in all aspects (P<0. 001) except depression (P= 0. 19). Conclusion: The present study showed the role of mental health in incidence of recurrent aphthous stomatitis, so paying attention to mental health is recommended along with other factors that cause this condition.

Background and purpose: Waste accumulation has very negative impacts on human health and the environment, but if managed properly, it can help in increasing food safety of the community. Agricultural extension and education as one of the main pillars of modern agriculture can play an effective role in agricultural productivity and waste and in general improve the living conditions of farmers. The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of education on rice waste management in Sari, Iran with emphasis on environmental protection and health. Materials and methods: This structural equation-based correlational survey was performed in 290 rice cultivators in Sari, north of Iran. The participants were selected based on Cochran's formula. Data were collected using a researcher-made questionnaire. Based on the average variance extracted (0. 506 >AVE< 0. 581) and composite reliability (0. 946 >CR < 0. 953), the questionnaire had convergent validity and appropriate reliability. SPSS V16 and SmartPLS 2. 0. M3 were used to analyze the data. Results: The study showed that trainings on the use of straw and other residues of rice positively affects rice waste management operations and is linked to environmental protection and better health status. Conclusion: Without knowledge of rice waste management operations and proper trainings, rice cultivators cannot be expected to succeed in waste management while considering environmental protection and health.

Background and purpose: Household drinking water treatment devices are becoming commonplace to improve the quality of drinking water, remove odor, taste, turbidity and color, pathogenic organisms, toxic chemicals, organic matter, and carcinogenic pollutants. This study aimed at investigating the Heterotrophic plate count (HPC) in drinking water and possibility of biofilm formation in household drinking water treatment devices in sari, Iran. Materials and methods: In a descriptive-analytical study, 100 samples were collected from the inlet and outlet reservoirs of urban drinking water distribution network and household water treatment systems according to the standard method in summer 2019. HPC culture was tested by spread plate method using R2A agar culture. Results: Among the samples studied, HPC was 12% higher than the standard level in 25% of urban water samples and 4% higher than the standard level in 18% of home water treatment system samples. Low residual chlorine in network and effluent of treatment devices and presence of heterotrophic bacteria in these samples, reinforces the possibility of biofilm growth on the network system and devices. The study showed significant relationship between lifetime of the filters, HPC, and residual chlorine (P<0. 001). Conclusion: Presence of HPC in network and effluent samples of household drinking water treatment devices and low residual chlorine in samples increases the rate of biofilm formation in network and devices even by small amounts.

Background and purpose: Neural circuits and neurotransmitter systems within the basolateral amygdala (BLA) play roles in forming emotional memory through communication with the hippocampus. Therefore, in this study, the role of these neural circuits on synaptic plasticity was investigated by agonist injection of beta-adrenergic receptors into the BLA. Materials and methods: In this experimental study, the electrophysiological recording from the hippocampus was investigated. Male Wistar rats (210-250 gr) were divided into two groups: control group that received saline (0. 5 μ l) and the treatment group that received clenbuterol (10 ng/0. 5μ l). Clenbuterol was also bilaterally injected into the BLA. Then, we studied the effect of clenbuterol on basal activity of the granular cells of the dentate gyrus (DG). Afterwards, a 200-Hz high-frequency stimulation protocol was applied to induce long-term potentiation (LTP). The amplitude of the population spike (PS) and the slope of the excitatory post synaptic potential (EPSP) were analyzed before and after the injection of clenbuterol. Results: Injection of clenbuterol (10 ng) did not increase PS of the LTP compared to the control group in the DG region. Also, no significant increase was seen in the slope of EPSP in treatment group compared to the control group (P>0. 05). Conclusion: Clenbuterol administration into the basolateral amygdala (10 ng/0. 5μ l) did not affect basal electrical activity and synaptic reinforcement of the dentate granular cells in 90 minutes.

Background and purpose: Multinodular goiter is a benign enlargement of thyroid gland and papillary thyroid carcinoma is the most common type of thyroid cancer. Today, immunohistochemical markers can be used in diagnosis and prognosis of tumors. The aim of this study was to compare the expression of CD117 in multinodular goiter and papillary thyroid carcinoma and its association with prognostic factors. Materials and methods: In this cross-sectional study, samples of thyroid tissue from 60 multinodular goiter and 60 papillary thyroid carcinoma cases who underwent thyroidectomy in Tehran Mostafa Khomeini Hospital during 2011-18, were evaluated for CD117 expression via immunohistochemistry. The expression intensity was scored 0-3. Results: CD117 was expressed in all samples with generally lower expression scores in malignant samples: 95% and 5% of malignant cases showed scores 1 and 2, respectively. Almost 52% and 48% of benign cases showed score 1 and scores 2 and 3, respectively (P<0. 05). Increased CD117 expression was associated with decreased lymph node involvement and increased tumor size (P<0. 05), but there was no significant relationship between this marker and other prognostic variables (P=0. 081). Conclusion: There are contradictory findings on the relation between CD117 expression and prognostic factors in malignant cases, therefore, further studies are recommended to clarify the association.

Background and purpose: Escherichia coli (E. coli) is the most common cause of urinary tract infection. The treatment strategy has been hampered by the emergence of broad-spectrum beta-lactamaseproducing E. coli and its resistance to most antibiotics. Bacteriophages are suggested as an alternative treatment option. This study aimed at evaluating the lytic activity of isolated phage from unpasteurized milk against Extended-Spectrum Beta-Lactamase (ESBLs) E. coli. Materials and methods: In this experimental study, E. coli was isolated from nine urinary tract infection samples and was confirmed as broad-spectrum beta-lactamase-producing by the Kirby-Bauer method. Bacteriophage was isolated from unpasteurized milk samples. Lytic activity of phage was determined by the spot test. Phage titer was calculated using the DLA assay. The phage latent period was detected and phenotype of the phage was determined by electron microscopy. Results: Lytic activity of phage against E. coli was confirmed by the formation of an inhibition zone. The phage titer was 15×1010 PFU/ml. The images of electron microscopy confirmed the phage cocktail belonged to Myoviridae and Podoviridae families. The latent period of bacteriophage was 20 min. Conclusion: Isolated bacteriophage from unpasteurized milk is effective on broad-spectrum beta-lactamase E. coli.

Background and purpose: One of the most important complications of bone fractures is nonunion. This research aimed at comparing the effect of exchange nailing and plate augmentation on complications after surgery and the time to achieve desired outcomes. Materials and methods: This descriptive-analytical study was conducted in 12 femoral shaft nonunion cases treated operatively in 2011-2018 (eight patients were managed with plate augmentation and four patients were treated with exchange nailing). Demographic characteristics of the patients, type of fracture and type of surgery were recorded. A year after the surgery, anteroposterior and lateral view profiles were prepared from all patients and the extent of bone fusion was evaluated by orthopedic surgen. Results: Four patients (33. 33%) underwent intraosseous nail replacement surgery and eight (66. 67%) underwent plate augmentation surgery. Two patients (16. 67%) developed infections and five (41. 67%) had a short limb complication. The average limb shortness in these patients was 1. 10± 0. 22 cm. The average duration of union after discharge was lower in patients with plate augmentation than those with replacement of the intramedullary nail. Conclusion: In current study, faster uninon achieved, so, augmentation plating could be a good choice in patients with femoral shaft nonunion.

Background and purpose: Breastfeeding in the first two years of life has great benefits in health promotion and preventing diseases. The aim of this study was to determine breastfeeding practices during the first two years of life based on BASNEF model in Sari, Iran, 2017. Materials and methods: In this cross-sectional study, 328 mothers with children younger than two years of age were selected by simple random sampling. Data were collected using a researchermade questionnaire according to BASNEF model. Chi-square test and ANOVA were performed to analyze the data. Results: Prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding was 74. 4%. Knowledge and attitude towards exclusive breastfeeding were found be good in 41% and 75% of mothers, respectively. Significant relationships were seen between breastfeeding practices and knowledge (P=0. 005), attitude (P=0. 02), and enabling factors (P=0. 02). In addition, significant relationships were seen between the mean scores for knowledge and attitude and mother’ s education level (P= 0. 002) and employment status (P= 0. 0001). Conclusion: According to this study, mothers’ knowledge and attitude significantly affect their breastfeeding behavior. Therefore, breastfeeding practices could be promoted by increasing the attitude and knowledge of mothers towards the benefits of breastfeeding.

Background and purpose: Child hospitalization is a stressful event for the mother and can cause emotional reactions in her. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of family-based education by telenursing on emotional reactions in mothers. Materials and methods: This clinical trial was performed in 66 individuals who were randomly assigned into experimental and control groups. Participants in both groups completed the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS-21) at the beginning of the study and 45 days after discharge. The experimental group received training on health and nutrition through WhatsApp Messenger, while the control group received routine training at discharge. Data were analyzed using SPSS V24. Results: There were no significant differences between the intervention and control group in mean scores for anxiety, depression, and stress (P>0. 05). The mean scores in experimental group were 8. 21± 5. 03, 28. 09± 13. 3, and 11. 41± 4. 85 before the intervention and 5. 45± 3. 91, 18. 64± 11. 78, and 8. 33± 4. 86 after the intervention, respectively. In control group, the mean scores for anxiety, depression, and stress were 7. 01± 5. 14, 22. 61± 14. 75, and 8. 91± 5. 64 before the intervention and 8. 91± 5. 64, 22± 12. 75, and 6. 91± 4. 89 after the intervention, respectively. The scores for depression and stress indicated significant differences between the two groups after the intervention (P<0. 05). But, there were no significant differences between the experimental group and controls in the mean score for anxiety before and after the intervention (P>0. 05). The regression slope was not found to be significant (F=0. 338, P≥ 0. 05). Conclusion: Family-based care training by telenursing could be effective in reducing the emotional reactions in mothers of children with bone marrow transplantation.

Background and purpose: Accidents are among the main causes of mortality in children. The aim of this study was to investigate the frequency and epidemiologic characteristics of injuries in children attending an emergency department in Sari, north of Iran. Materials and methods: In this cross-sectional study, the records of children under 16 years of age attending Sari Bouali Hospital (2017) due to injuries were investigated. Data were collected through a checklist that included items on age and gender, as well as the time, day, month, season, and location (home, school, road) of accidents, and the results (death, treatment, and recovery). Data analysis was done in SPSS V22. Results: The records of 108 children were studied. The majority of accidents occurred in boys (n=91). Almost 79. 5% of the accidents happened after midday. Falling down (47. 7%) in house and street (more than 90%) was found to be the main reason for attending emergency department. No significant relationship was found between the variables studied (P> 0. 05). Conclusion: Current study suggests that more trainings should be available to parents in order to decrease the causes of injuries and accidental falls. Also, the safety of parks and recreation areas is a key to increase children health and safety.