Population Of Mashhad Research Articles

Anxiety, a significant risk factor for coronary artery disease: what is the best index

BackgroundCoronary artery disease (CAD) is known as the leading cause of disability and death globally. Anxiety disorders are also recognized as common types of mental disorders that substantially impact global health. Iran ranks among the countries with a high incidence of CAD and anxiety disorders. Therefore, the present study aims to determine the potential association and epidemiological aspects of anxiety and CAD within the population of Mashhad, the second most popoulos city in Iran.MethodsThe present study is based on extracted data from the Mashhad stroke and heart atherosclerotic disorder (MASHAD) study which is a 10-year prospective cohort study intended to assess the effects of various CAD risk factors among Mashhad city residents. Anxiety scores were assessed at the baseline using Beck Anxiety Inventory and individuals were classified based on the BAI 4-factor structure model which included autonomic, cognitive, panic, and neuromotor components. Accordingly, the association between baseline anxiety scores and the BAI four-factor model with the risk of CAD events was analyzed using SPSS software version 21.ResultsBased on the results, 60.4% of the sample were female, and 5.6% were classified as having severe forms of anxiety. Moreover, severe anxiety was more prevalent in females. Results showed a 1.7% risk of CAD (p-value < 0.001) over 10 years with one unit increase in anxiety score. Based on the 4-factor model structure, we found that only panic disorder could significantly increase the risk of CAD by 1.1% over the 10-year follow-up (p-value < 0.001).ConclusionAnxiety symptoms, particularly panic disorder, are independently and significantly associated with an increased overall risk of developing CAD over a 10-year period. Therefore, further studies are warranted to investigate the mechanisms through which anxiety may cause CAD, as well as possible interventions to mitigate these processes.

Assessment of the Seroprevalence of Varicella zoster Virus in Young Adults Aged 15 – 35 Years Old in Mashhad, Iran

Background: Varicella zoster virus (VZV) is highly contagious and can lead to two distinct diseases. Initially, it causes chickenpox, a primary infection common among children worldwide, characterized by itchy, red blisters that cover the body. After this initial outbreak, the virus can lie dormant in nerve tissues and may reactivate later in life as herpes zoster, commonly known as shingles, which presents as a painful rash. While chickenpox is generally mild and resolves on its own, it can cause severe complications, especially in vulnerable groups such as immunocompromised individuals or adults. These complications can range from bacterial superinfections and pneumonia to encephalitis. In rare cases, it may lead to life-threatening conditions like necrotizing fasciitis or toxic shock syndrome, highlighting the potential severity of what is often considered a childhood illness. Objectives: One of the main risk factors for varicella-zoster infection is the absence of immunity. Individuals who have not been vaccinated against or previously infected with the VZV are at risk of contracting chickenpox when exposed. Additionally, close contact with infected individuals increases the likelihood of transmission. People with chronic conditions or those undergoing immunosuppressive therapy are particularly vulnerable to severe complications from varicella-zoster infections. Therefore, this study was conducted to assess the seroepidemiology of antibodies against varicella zoster in the young adult population in Mashhad. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in 2018 on men and women aged 15 to 35 years in Mashhad, northeast Iran. Random cluster sampling was utilized. Individuals undergoing treatment for rare diseases were excluded from the study. The enzyme-linked immunoassay (ELISA) technique was employed to assess the presence of IgG antibodies against varicella zoster in 724 serum samples. Data analysis was performed using SPSS 20, and the significance level was set at 0.05. Results: Overall, among the 724 participants aged 15 - 35 years old in Mashhad, the frequency of anti-varicella IgG seropositivity was 85.9%. Our results indicated significant associations between age (P = 0.001) and occupational status (P = 0.02) with varicella-zoster seroprevalence. Conclusions: We observed a high frequency of anti-varicella zoster IgG seroprevalence among young adults in Mashhad. Infants, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immune systems are more likely to develop severe forms of chickenpox or experience complications from shingles, including pneumonia and encephalitis. Given the severe health problems caused by the varicella virus and its high prevalence in Mashhad, we recommend incorporating the varicella vaccine into the public vaccination program. Additionally, further examination of the burden of herpes zoster, including its impact on quality of life and healthcare utilization, can guide interventions to mitigate the consequences of this condition.

Evaluation of Bolton's Ratio in Normal Occlusion and Different Types of Malocclusion in Iranian Population

Background: The Bolton analysis is commonly used by orthodontists. The Bolton ratios of different populations are significantly different from the standard values of Bolton. This study sought to examine the Bolton's anterior and overall ratios in various malocclusion types in Mashhad, Iran, in contrast to the Bolton’s standards. Methods: This descriptive-analytical study was conducted on 240 study models of patients (121 males and 119 females) in four groups (n= 60 cases) of normal occlusion, Class I, Class II, and Class III. The mesiodistal dimensions of the teeth were measured twice using a digital caliper. The anterior and overall ratios of Bolton were calculated. Statistical analysis was conducted utilizing SPSS 18.0. Results: The mesiodistal width of the maxillary lateral incisors in normal occlusion cases was greater than that in Class I, Class II, and Class III malocclusions (P&lt;0.05). Conversely, the mesiodistal width of the maxillary first and second premolars was the greatest in Class II and the smallest in Class III malocclusion (P&lt;0.05). Correlation was not observed between dental ratios (anterior and overall) and gender or malocclusion groups (P&gt;0.05). Furthermore, the anterior ratio was significantly higher than the Bolton's standard in Class I and III malocclusion groups (P&lt;0.05). The normal occlusion group's overall ratio was significantly lower than the Bolton's original ratio (P&lt;0.05). Conclusion: Implementing the Bolton analysis in the population of Mashhad, Iran should be approached with caution.

A large population-based study on the prevalence of electrocardiographic abnormalities: A result of Mashhad stroke and heart atherosclerotic disorder cohort study.

Twelve-lead electrocardiogram (ECG) is a common and inexpensive tool for the diagnostic workup of patients with suspected cardiovascular disease, both in clinical and epidemiological settings. The present study was designed to evaluate ECG abnormalities in Mashhad population. ECGs were taken as part of MASHAD cohort study (phase1) and were coded according to the Minnesota coding criteria. Data were analyzed using SPSS. Total 9035 ECGs were available for final analysis including 3615 (40.0%) male and 5420 (60.0%) female. Among ECG abnormalities precordial Q wave, major T-wave abnormalities, inferior Q wave, sinus bradycardia, and left axis deviation were the most prevalent abnormalities. The frequency of precordial and inferior Q wave, inferior QS pattern, major and minor ST abnormalities, major and minor T abnormalities, Wolff-Parkinson-White and Brugada pattern, sinus bradycardia, sinus tachycardia, left axis deviation, ST elevation, and tall T wave were significantly different between two genders. Moreover, the frequency of Q wave in precordial and aVL leads, QS pattern in precordial and inferior leads, major and minor T-wave abnormalities, Wolff-Parkinson-White, atrial fibrillation, sinus bradycardia, left axis deviation, and ST elevation were significantly different in different age groups. A comparison of the heart rate, P-wave duration, and QRS duration between men and women indicated that there was a significant difference. Our finding indicated that the prevalence ECG abnormalities are different between men and women and also it varied in different age groups.

Researchers in Mashhad, Iran, are investigating how green roofs can enhance the quality of life in cities with arid climates

Mashhad, the second-most populous city in Iran, is situated in a hot and dry climate, and climate change has led to the temperature in this city climbing in recent years. This study's objective is to design a green roof per the region's hot and arid climate to maximize plant growth. The thermal comfort of citizens is explored in this study. A questionnaire was developed and distributed to 406 individuals for this experiment. The frequency measurement test was utilized to do statistical computations in order to quantify the sample's frequency, while the chi-square test (chi-square) was utilized to assess the relationship between class and rank variables. Residents from thirteen distinct neighborhoods are selected at random and proportionally. The findings of this study indicate that the positive effects of green roofs extend beyond the city of Mashhad and have a global impact. When green roof development is performed on a large scale in a city or region, many of the negative consequences of environmental change over the past several decades will be offset. By putting green roofs on buildings and all over cities, the effects of climate change are being fought off better.However, a scientific and preferred approach for installing and cultivating green roofs in Mashhad is of greater importance. Using the data analysis of the questionnaire, the desires, interests, and concerns of Mashhad's population were identified. The following development plan shows how the green roof field can grow desirably and acceptably.

Evaluation of Normal Renal Size and its Influencing Factors: A Cross-Sectional Study on the Adult Population of Mashhad.

Background:The normal range of kidney size is a controversial issue among different populations given to its impressibility by multiple factors, therefore, this study aimed to provide valid reference ranges for kidney dimensions in the adult population of Mashhad. Also, we assessed the association of kidney size characteristics with some personal predisposing factors.Methods:This cross-sectional study was conducted on 938 healthy individuals. Ultrasound measurement, physical examination, and laboratory analysis were performed. Demographic, dietary, and anthropometric data were obtained. The variables were categorized into 5 groups each, and data analysis were performed using the following statistical tests: Pearson correlation test, variance analysis, t-test, and chi-square test. A value of p<0.05 was considered statistically significant.Results:Weight had the most association with kidney size followed to a lesser extent by height and age. Even after adjustment for other confounding variables, weight remained as an independent factor, while this effect was resolved for height and age. Also, all values for renal function, body bio-impedance, blood pressure components, and water intake were notably correlated with kidney size.Conclusion:This study determined the normal kidney size in healthy adults. We also declared the normal range of kidney size is a dynamic concept and should be assessed for each individual separately according to their personal determinative factors.

Genetic Determinants of Premature Menopause in A Mashhad Population Cohort.

Background:Premature menopause is characterized by amenorrhea before age of 40 years, markedly raised serum luteinizing hormone (LH) level, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) level and reduced serum level of estradiol. Genome-wide analysis suggested several loci associated with premature menopause. Here, we aimed to analyze association of variants at the MCM8, FNDC4, PRRC2A, TLK1, ZNF346 and TMEM150B gene loci with premature menopause.Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, a total of 117 women with premature menopause were compared to 183 healthy women. Anthropometric indices were measured in all participants: height, weight, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC) and wrist circumference. Eight single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of the indicated genes (rs16991615, rs244715, rs451417, rs1046089, rs7246479, rs4806660, rs10183486 and rs2303369) were identified from the literature. Genotyping was performed using tetra-ARMS polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and ASO-PCR methods.Results:T allele of the rs16991615, rs1046089, rs7246479 and rs10183486, C allele of rs244715, rs451417 and rs4806660 as well as TT genotype of rs2303369 were associated with an increased risk of premature menopause, likely causing susceptibility to primary ovarian insufficiency (POI) in comparison with C allele. We also found an association between the rs16991615 SNP with premature menopause. Frequency of the minor allele in cases was increased for all SNPs in comparison with controls. All minor alleles, except for rs2303369, showed a statistically significant increased odds ratio (OR). However, after Bonferroni correction for multiple testing, none of the P values were remained significant.Conclusion:The selected polymorphisms in MCM8, FNDC4, PRRC2A, TLK1, ZNF346 and TMEM150B genes may potentially affect susceptibility to premature menopause, although replication of the results in larger cohort could clarify this.

ANALYSIS OF ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL INDICATORS IN OPTIMIZING THE PERFORMANCE OF URBAN GREEN SPACE MANAGEMENT (A STUDY OF MASHHAD METROPOLIS)

In recent decades, Mashhad as the second largest city of Iran after Tehran has experienced rapidly physical expansion regardless of the citizens' need for green space. The importance of Mashhad's urban green space is understandable from two dimensions, the first one is the existing population of the area and its increasing trend as the second most populous city of Iran and the other is the religious position of Mashhad, which annually receives millions of domestic and foreign travelers. Therefore, the aim of this paper is the investigation of urban green spaces performance in term of economic and social indicators in the Mashhad metropolis area. This research is an applied study by considering to its goal, and a descriptive analytical study for respect to its nature. It was also predominantly carried out with a quantitative approach. The statistical population for this research included the total population of Mashhad, and 380 peoples were selected as the sample using Cochran's formula. Also, 20 managers of Mashhad green space were interviewed to obtain more accurate data. SPSS software was used in the form of Cronbach's alpha test and the looseness and elongation index. Data and information reliability were also analyzed by statistical tests. SPSS software was used in the form of Cronbach's alpha test and the looseness and elongation index. Also, data and information reliability were analyzed by statistical tests. Data collection tools included a questionnaire and measurement of items is based on the Likert spectrum and 5-choice options. The research questionnaire includes 15 social questions and 5 economic questions that have been tested and analyzed using SPSS22 software. The results showed that managerial performance in the field of urban green spaces in Mashhad metropolis did not have a significant effect. From the view of citizens and managers, the various dimensions of the social index (communication, education, leisure, access and participation) have been evaluated as desirable.

Gender Determination Using Digital Lateral Cephalograms: A Discriminant Function Analysis

Abstract Introduction: Gender determination can help establishing a biological profile of the human body remains. Since the pelvic and skull remains are the most unyielding parts of human skeleton, identifying the dead bodies from these two parts would be very useful. After coaxial bone, the skull is the most gender-discriminated portion of the human skeleton. Since no determination study have been reported in Iranian population, present study aimed to determine gender by measuring 12 craniomandibular parameters and provide specific discriminant function scores in a selected population in Mashhad, Iran. Methods: a total of 202 digital lateral cephalograms of healthy adults, (101 males and 101 females) in the age range of 18 to 50 years were selected. 14 cephalometric points were utilized, which enabled tracing of 11 linear measurements and an angle. All cephalometric points and measurements were traced by onyxceph® version 2.6 software. Results: Based on the analyses, among the chosen parameters, facial height (N-Me), mandibular ramus height (AR-Go), mandibular plane (Me-Go), frontal sinus width (FsWd) contributed the most for sexual dimorphism. The discrimination accuracy was 87.6% (84.2% in males and 91.1% in females). All the linear measurements were significantly larger in males except for angular variable which showed no significant difference between the two genders. Conclusion: According to the present findings, cephalometric craniomandibular parameters could be utilized to discriminate the gender of human remains using discriminant function analysis (DFA) in the selected Iranian population.

The Prevalence of Lower Extremity Injuries in Mashhad: A Five-Year Study.

Injury is one of the leading causes of death and disability worldwide. Lower extremity injuries put a heavy burden on communities. The aim of this study is to assess the prevalence of lower extremity injuries in Mashhad, Iran. The data from 57430 patients with lower extremity injuries from all traumatology hospitals in Mashhad were analyzed in this retrospective descriptive cross-sectional study to determine the prevalence of lower extremity injuries in Mashhad, Iran, between March 2011 and March 2015. The prevalence of lower extremity injury in the general population of Mashhad was 0.34%. The mean age of the casualties was 33.7±19.8 years, and 77.9% were male. Knee and lower leg injuries had the highest frequency (61%). The mean hospitalization period was 7.7±12.6 days. The highest mortality rate (MR) (2%) and discharge against medical advice (DAMA) (11%) were observed in hip and thigh injuries. DAMA (8.8% vs. 6.7%, P<0.001) and MR (1.7% vs. 1.5%, P=0.005) was higher in females. However, males had a longer hospitalization period (8±13) compared to females (6.8±10.1 days) (P<0.001). The prevalence rate was declining during the study period. The downward trend of lower extremity injuries is promising; however, the higher mortality rate in females needs more attention. These findings can be used for better management of traumatic patients.

Concordance assessment between self-reports of substance use and urinalysis: A population-based study in Mashhad, Iran

Background Few studies have addressed the validity of self-reports of substance use in Iran. This study was conducted to evaluate concordance between self-reported data on drug use and urinalysis results in an adult population in Mashhad as the second most populous city in Iran. Methods This population-based study recruited 2142 Mashhad residents aged over 16 years. The data were obtained from a study conducted in 2015 on the prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in an adult population in Mashhad. The participants were selected using multistage stratified cluster sampling. To evaluate the validity, the participants’ responses to a single-question screening test of drug use were compared with their urinalysis results. The sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values of the self-reports were also assessed. Results The prevalence of drug use was found to be 2.33% (95% CI: 1.75–3.09) based on the self-reported data and 17.74% (95% CI: 16.15–19.43) based on the urinalysis results. Opioids were the most prevalent form of drug used and the self-reports indicated low validity (sensitivity = 12.63%, 95% CI: 9.54–16.49). The women were found more predisposed than the men to misreporting their drug use. Discussion In line with other studies in Iran, the validity of the self-reports of drug use was found to be low. Policymakers should therefore avoid relying only on self-reported data to evaluate the effectiveness of interventions and preventive strategies. It is recommended that further in-depth studies be conducted to address the factors affecting the validity of self-reports in Iranian populations.

Factors Affecting Patients' Adherence to Continuous Positive Airway Pressure Therapy for Obstructive Sleep Apnea Disorder: A Multi-Method Approach.

Background: Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is the gold standard therapy for treating obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) disorder. However, patients’ adherence to its regular use is poor. The present study aimed to determine the adherence rate to CPAP therapy by identifying factors affecting its regular use and its associated problems and discomforts among a sample population in Mashhad (Iran). Methods: The study was conducted from October 2017 to March 2018 in Mashhad (Iran) using both quantitative and qualitative methods. The quantitative study was carried out using a retrospective cross-sectional data collection from five sleep clinics and one CPAP sales office. The patients were classified into an adherent and a non-adherent group to determine the factors affecting CPAP adherence. Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS software (version 22.0). Additionally, a prospective qualitative study was performed through a series of telephone interviews using the content analysis method. Qualitative data were analyzed using MAXQDA 10 software.Results: In the quantitative study, the medical records of 159 patients were used, out of which 79 (49.6%) were non-adherent to CPAP therapy. The mean age of all patients was 56.9±9.8 years. The mean body mass index, apnea-hypopnea index, and Epworth sleepiness scale (ESS) scores were 30.9±6.6 kg/m2, 37.2±28.1 events/hour, and 10.4±5.5, respectively. At baseline, the adherent group had a significantly higher age (P=0.006), higher oxygen desaturation index (P=0.006), and lower ESS (P=0.023) compared to the non-adherent group. In the qualitative study, a total of 29 telephone interviews were held with patients from the non-adherent group (8 women and 21 men). Analysis of the interviews resulted in three main categories (level of knowledge, discomfort, and costs) and nine sub-categories. Conclusion: A high percentage of OSA patients had poor adherence to CPAP therapy. Device-related issues could be adequately resolved by providing complementary information during follow-up visits. Moreover, efforts to reduce costs through comprehensive insurance coverage or with government subsidy would improve patients’ adherence to CPAP therapy.

Is there any association between human T-lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV-1) infection and Behcet’s disease?

Both human T-cell lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV-1) infection and Behcet’s disease (BD) are common to a similar geographic area. Furthermore, some clinical presentations of BD and HTLV-1 infection, such as ocular lesions and neurologic involvement, are the same. The aim of this study was to assess a possible association between BD and HTLV-1 infection.In this case-control study, the HTLV-1 infection frequency in BD patients was compared with that for the general population. The case group consisted of 68 patients with a definite diagnosis of BD who referred to a research center at Mashhad University of Medical Sciences in Mashhad, Iran. The control group consisted of 210 healthy individuals selected from the general population of Mashhad. The presence of HTLV antibodies in the sera was assessed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and the seroreactive samples were confirmed by polymerase chain reaction.HTLV-1 infection was detected in 4.41% (3/68) and 1.43% (3/210) of cases and controls, respectively; however, the difference was not statistically significant (P value = 0.16).The prevalence of HTLV1 infection in patients with BD was three-fold higher than in the general population, which suggests an association between these two conditions.

The risk of cardiovascular events based on the Framingham criteria in Adults Living in Mashhad (Iran).

Background and aimCardiovascular diseases are a problem in low- and middle-income countries, such as Iran. The present research was performed to identify risk factors contributing to cardiovascular diseases and their distributions among the adult population of Mashhad (Iran) using the Framingham criteria.MethodsThis cross-sectional population-based study performed in 2015 on 2,976 adults living in Mashhad (Iran) using Stratified cluster-random sampling method. Demographic information was acquired by surveyors in the research team using a checklist and referring to a medical laboratory for laboratory assessments. The 10-year risk of cardiovascular diseases for the participants was calculated using the Framingham criteria and was classified into three classes: low risk (<10%), intermediate risk (10–20%), and high risk (>20%). The analysis was done by SPSS Version 11.5 by using the Independent-samples t-test, Kruskal-Wallis, and analysis of variance (ANOVA).ResultsA total of 2,978 participants aged 16–90 participated in our cross-sectional study with an average age of 43.5±14.7 years. Total risk scores among men and women were 7.29±6.3 and 5.8±6.03, respectively. Compared to women, men exhibited a significantly higher risk of cardiovascular diseases (p<0.001). Average heart age among men and women was estimated at 50.37±18.7 and 48.8±17.0 respectively, i.e. significantly older heart age was obtained for men compared to women (p<0.001).ConclusionAccording to this study, men are at a great risk of cardiovascular events, so we should develop our screening and educational program especially for this population.

The prevalence of obesity and overweight in Northeastern Iran

Objective: The aim of this study was to assess obesity and overweight by WHO criteria in Mashhad, Iran.&#x0D; Method: This cross-sectional study was performed on 4453 people from Mashhad in 2009. Comprehensive data of age, height, weight, education, and marriage was collected. Overweight and obesity were calculated according to the body mass index (BMI).&#x0D; Results: A total of 1828 participants entered study, of whom 70.4% were women. The mean age of the population was 39.8±13.5 years. The prevalence of overweight and obesity was 36.5% (95% CI 34.3-38.6) and 16.9% (95% CI 15.1-18.8), respectively. The prevalence of overweight was 39.0% in men and 35.4% in women which increased significantly by age (P&lt;0.001 &amp; OR=1.055). The prevalence of obesity in men and women was 12.3% and 18.9% respectively which showed women had a significantly higher risk (P&lt;0.001). The risk of overweight and obesity was higher in married but lower in educated people.&#x0D; Conclusion: This study showed a rapid increase in obesity and overweight, especially in women, in Mashhad population as a sample of the Iranian society. Attention to preventive and education plans should be the priority of health policies.

The Association of Socio-Demographic Problems on Marital Instability between Women with Sexual Dysfunction and General Population in Mashhad, Iran 2017 : A Case-Control Study

The Association of Socio-Demographic Problems on Marital Instability between Women with Sexual Dysfunction and General Population in Mashhad, Iran 2017 : A Case-Control Study

Distribution of Hepatitis C Virus Genotypes in Patients with Major β-Thalassemia in Mashhad, Northeast Iran

BACKGROUND Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is considered to be the major cause of post-transfusion hepatitis in patients with thalassemia. We aimed to determine the HCV prevalence, genotypes, and viral load among patients with major β-thalassemia in Mashhad, Iran. METHODS Medical records of all 550 patients with major β-thalassemia who referred to ThalassemiaHemophilia Center of Mashhad (Sarvar Clinic) were reviewed from October to November 2011. Plasma samples of the patients were tested for the presence of anti-HCV antibodies by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay. Real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used to determine viral genotype and HCV RNA titer. RESULTS HCV antibodies were detected in 37 individuals (6.73%) including 17 men and 20 women with mean age of 25.2 ± 8.4 years. The PCR analysis was performed for 27 patients, of whom HCV RNA was detected in 17 patients (63.0%). Viral titers were investigated in 14 subjects and a high viral load more than 600000 copies/mL was observed in 6 patients (42.9%). The most prevalent genotypes were 3a (50.0%) followed by 1a (37.5%). No significant correlation was found between genotype and age, sex, serum ferritin, liver tests, and HCV RNA titer. CONCLUSION HCV infection among patients with thalassemia is more common than general population in Mashhad, northeast Iran. The dominant HCV subtype is 3a followed by 1a. These findings could help health authorities to provide preventive measures, and practitioners to choose the right protocol of treatment for the patients.

Evaluation of Normal Ranges of Wrist Radiologic Indexes in Mashhad Population.

Hand and wrist radiographic indexes such as radial inclination, ulnar variance, carpal height ratio, and radial tilt play an important role in the diagnosis and management of medical disorders, so they should be modified regarding the population and race difference. This study aims to compare the normal radiologic wrist indexes in Mashhad population with other existing databases and define some of the factors that may influence the normal radiographic indexes. A total of 100 healthy participants were enrolled in this prospective cross-sectional study. After performing PA and lateral wrist radiographs, all radiological indexes including the wrist height; 1st and 3rd metacarpal length; ulnar variance; radial tilt and radial inclination; radiolunate, capitolunate, and scapholunate angle; capitate and scaphoid length; lunate and wrist width; and lunate diameter were measured. Significant differences were found between the two genders in the 1st and 3rd metacarpal length (P<0.001 and P<0.001 respectively), wrist height (P<0.001), radial tilt (P=0.027), radiolunate angle (P=0.001), capitate and scaphoid length (P<0.001 and P<0.001 respectively), lunate and wrist width (P<0.001 and P<0.001 respectively), lunate length (P=0.003), and lunate diameter (P<0.001). A significant linear correlation was found between ulnar variance (P=0.003), scapholunate angle (P=0.016), and wrist ratio (P=0.011) with age. According to our findings, using population specific wrist and hand indexes is recommended to diagnose and follow up upper extremities conditions.

Frequencies of HLA-A, B and DRB1 alleles in a large normal population living in the city of Mashhad, Northeastern Iran.

Objective(s):The population in Iran is a genetic admixture of the ancestral Aryan and other populations neighboring Iran. Different ethnic groups in Iran show wide regional distributions for many human leukocyte antigen (HLA) alleles. Therefore, it is necessary and sensible to study the differences in HLA allele distribution in different area. We studied the HLA class I and II allele frequencies in a large unrelated healthy Iranian population from Mashhad in the Northeast region.Materials and Methods:Five hundred unrelated healthy adult individuals borne and living in Mashhad, Northeast of Iran, were genotyped for HLA-A, B and HLA-DRB1 alleles using PCR with low resolution sequence specific primers (SSP-PCR) technique.Results:A total of 14 HLA-A, 24 HLA-B and 10 HLA-DRB1 alleles were spread throughout the studied population with distinct allele frequencies. At the HLA-A locus, HLA-A*02 was found to be the most frequent allele, with a frequency of 20.9%. The most common HLA-B alleles was B*35 (16.4%). The two most common observed alleles in HLA class II alleles were DRB1*15 (20.0%) followed by DRB1*13 (16.2%).Conclusion:This study is the first on the HLA class I and II allele frequencies in Northeastern Iranian population living in Mashhad. Distribution of HLA-A and B loci showed some similarities with those of other Iranians. Some difference in HLA-DRB1 polymorphisms however was observed. Considering the highly mixed population of Mashhad, the finding was not unexpected.

Visual impairment and blindness in a population-based study of Mashhad, Iran

PurposeTo determine the prevalence of visual impairment and blindness and related factors in the 1- to 90-year-old urban population of Mashhad. MethodsIn this cross-sectional study of 1- to 90-year-old residents of Mashhad, in northeastern Iran, sampling was done through random stratified cluster sampling (120 clusters). After selecting the samples and their participation in the study, all subjects had vision testing including measurement of visual acuity and refraction, as well as examinations with the slit-lamp and ophthalmoscopy. Visual impairment (primary outcomes) was defined as a visual acuity worse than of 0.5 logMAR (20/60) in the better eye. ResultsOf the 4453 selected persons, 3132 (70.4%) participated in the study. The prevalence of visual impairment based on presenting vision and best-corrected vision was 3.95% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 3.13–4.77) and 2.23 (95% CI: 1.54–2.91), respectively. The prevalence of presenting visual impairment increased from 1.59% in children under 5 years of age to 43.59% in people older than 65 years of age; these figures were respectively 1.59% and 42.31% based on corrected visual acuity. In the logistic regression model, older age (OR = 1.06, 95% CI: 1.04–1.07, P < 0.001), higher education (OR = 0.16, 95% CI: 0.06–0.38, P < 0.001), and low income (OR = 1.36, 95% CI: 1.21–1.72, P < 0.001) correlated with impaired sight. Based on presenting vision and best-corrected vision, the prevalence of blindness was 0.86% (95% CI: 0.51–1.22) and 0.32% (95% CI: 0.1–0.55). The most common causes of visual impairment were uncorrected refractive error (41.8%) and cataract (20%). ConclusionsAccording to our findings, the prevalence of visual impairment was intermediate in comparison with other studies. The prevalence of visual impairment in our study was similar to the global average; however, it was markedly high at older ages. Nonetheless, refractive errors and cataracts remain as the main causes of impaired vision and blindness in this population, while these two conditions are easily treatable with correction or surgery.