Tehran University Research Articles

HEPATITIS C VIRUS AND LEUKEMIA PATIENTS: PREVALENCE AND RISK FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH INFECTION AMONG LEUKEMIA PATIENTS WHO ACHIEVE LONG-TERM REMISSION AFTER CHEMOTHERAPY

Aim and objective: Leukemia patients are at elevated risk of hepatitis C virus infections, with anti-HCV prevalence ranging from 4.3% to 70% post-chemotherapy remission. Long-term leukemia survivors' natural histories are unclear. We measured anti-HCV antibodies to investigate the frequency of HCV infections and the associated odds factors of contracting HCV among leukemia patients who achieved long-term remissions after chemotherapy. Methods: This study is a cross-sectional study, comprising leukemia patients at the oncology center at Kuwait Hospital in Sana'a, Yemen. It included people with leukemia of different ages and genders. Data was collected through a standard questionnaire prepared for this study, which includes clinical symptoms, risk factors, demographic data, and the results of diagnostic tests. Antibody tests for the hepatitis C virus (HCV) were done by ELISA. Results: The majority of patients with HCV are male, with a mean age of 12.8 years. The prevalence is 5.5%, with males having a higher prevalence. Most patients receive blood transfusions more than twice, with major blood banks, Al-Kuwait hospitals, and private hospitals being the primary sources. AML and ALL are the two most common leukemias. Male patients have a higher risk, and those over 15 years old have a higher risk. Conclusions: This study is the first in Yemen to investigate the prevalence of HCV infections in patients with leukemia. According to our research, leukemia patients had a greater prevalence of HCV than the general population's national prevalence. However, health care workers (HCWs) and patients receiving maintenance hemodialysis (HD) patients have prevalence's of HCV that are comparable. Peer Review History: Received 14 May 2024; Reviewed 13 July 2024; Accepted 22 August; Available online 15 September 2024 Academic Editor: Dr. DANIYAN Oluwatoyin Michael, Obafemi Awolowo University, ILE-IFE, Nigeria, toyinpharm@gmail.com Average Peer review marks at initial stage: 6.0/10 Average Peer review marks at publication stage: 7.0/10 Reviewers: Dr. Tamer Elhabibi, Suez Canal University, Egypt, tamer_hassan@pharm.suez.edu.eg Dr. George Zhu, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran, sansan4240732@163.com

THE IMPACT OF DRUG COST ON MEDICATION ADHERENCE IN NIGERIA: A PERCEPTION AMONG PHARMACISTS

Background: Given Nigeria's huge economic instability, medication expenses may significantly impact medication adherence, creating a barrier to the treatment of various ailments. The study aimed to assess pharmacists' perceptions about the impact of drug costs on medication adherence in Nigeria. Methods: The study was cross-sectional among practicing pharmacists across Nigeria. The 25 items semi-structured questionnaire was administered online using simple random sampling with the snowballing technique to recruit the pharmacists for the study. The collected data was coded into Microsoft Excel 2016 and subsequently analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 21.0 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY, USA). Descriptive statistics were utilized to summarize the data, providing an overview of the demographic characteristics and key findings. Inferential statistics, specifically Pearson’s Chi-square test, were employed where applicable to determine the relationships between variables. Results: Total 161 pharmacists responded to the survey, giving an 80.5% response rate. The respondent rate was mainly young pharmacists (20–30 years old; 82.6%) and predominantly male (51.6%). Almost all the respondents possess only a bachelor of pharmacy degree (91.9%). Total 90% have practiced for 5 years or less, mostly in community settings (60.9%). Generic substitution has been cited as the most important technique to manage drug costs. Non-adherence due to cost was associated with practice settings, whereas adherence counseling was correlated with gender and setting of practice. All differences were not statistically significant at p<0.05. Conclusions: Most participants believe that the cost of medication is a major barrier to accessing quality healthcare and drives massive non-adherence among those who can barely afford the medicines. Implementing a comprehensive national strategy to enhance the healthcare system, expand the reach of the national health insurance program, and promote cooperation among healthcare practitioners will result in improved clinical outcomes for patients. Peer Review History: Received 22 May 2024; Revised 11 July 2024; Accepted 26 August; Available online 15 September 2024 Academic Editor: Dr. A.A. Mgbahurike, University of Port Harcourt, Nigeria, amaka_mgbahurike@yahoo.com Average Peer review marks at initial stage: 5.5/10 Average Peer review marks at publication stage: 7.0/10 Reviewers: Prof. Hassan A.H. Al-Shamahy, Sana'a University, Yemen, shmahe@yemen.net.ye Dr. George Zhu, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran, sansan4240732@163.com

In Commemoration of Dr. Farrokh Modabber: An Iranian Pioneer of Cellular Immunology, and Leishmaniases Vaccine Research in Iran and the World.

Born in 1940 in Rasht, Iran, Dr. Farrokh Modabber earned his B.A. in Bacteriology and Ph.D. in Microbiology from University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). He joined the Harvard Medical School as a fellow before transitioning to a faculty role at Harvard School of Public Health (HSPH) and played a pivotal role in advancing Cellular Immunology. In the early 1970s, he returned to Iran as an Associate Professor at Pahlavi University in Shiraz. Subsequently, he rejoined HSPH before embarking on a tenure at Tehran University. As the head of the Pathobiology Department at Tehran University School of Public Health, he initiated the Tehran/Harvard joint M.Sc. program in Immunology, which played a crucial role in shaping the careers of numerous Iranian immunologists over the following decades. Dr. Modabber went on to hold esteemed positions such as Director General of the Pasteur Institute of Iran, visiting immunology lecturer at various universities, Coordinator of Research Capability Strengthening of WHO's Special Program for Research and Training in Tropical Diseases (TDR), Director of the Infectious Disease Research Institute (IDRI), and Senior Advisor of Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative (DNDi), to name a few. This article highlights Dr. Modabber's impactful career, focusing on his efforts to combat global leishmaniasis.

Bibliometric Mapping of the Scientific Production of Lasers in Endodontics: Collaborative Networks, Impact, and Trends

Abstract Aim: The objective of this study is to perform a bibliometric mapping of the scientific production of lasers in endodontics using collaborative networks, impact, and trends. Materials and Methods: This retrospective and descriptive study used a bibliometric design to analyze laser use in endodontics in Scopus from 2018 to 2024. In total, 877 documents were identified using key terms and MeSH. Bibliometric indicators were used to explore scientific activity and impact, and VOSviewer was used for data analysis. Results: It was found that the year with the highest number of publications was 2023, with 166, and the quartiles with the highest productivity were Q1 (40.3%) and Q2 (31.1%). Among the top 5 countries with the highest publications production, Brazil led the group with 125, followed by India (111). Among the institutions with the highest production, the Universidade de São Paulo tops the list with 51 research papers, closely followed by the Tehran University of Medical Sciences with 32 and the Universidade Estadual Paulista Júlio de Mesquita Filho with 30. Among the most outstanding authors, we have Chiniforush Nasim, who has 20 papers; however, Duarte Marco has an h-index of 48, and Sivieri-Araújo Gustavo has the highest number of citations. Conclusion: This bibliometric mapping reaffirmed the vision and trends of lasers in endodontics, with 2023 being the most relevant in terms of scientific production and, among the countries with the highest number of publications, Brazil stood out.

Mediating role of alexithymia in relationship between cyberbullying and psychotic experiences in adolescents

BackgroundToday, addressing issues related to the use of virtual space is of paramount importance due to its significant impact on mental well-being. This is especially crucial when the research community consists of teenagers who are cyber bullies or their victims who have higher vulnerability. The aim of the present study was to investigate the mediating role of alexithymia in the relationship between cyberbullying and psychotic experiences in adolescents.MethodsThe research method employed in this study was correlational, and the study population consisted of all male and female middle school students in Tehran during the 2022–2023 academic years. As for data collection, the Cyber-Bullying/Victimization Experiences questionnaire, Community Assessment of Psychic Experiences, and the Toronto Alexithymia scale were applied. A total of 602 samples were gathered by using multi-stage cluster sampling from Tehran in Iran. Four selection of the sample, the regions in Tehran were selected randomly according to the geographical directions of them and then some schools and classes were chosen randomly. Sample was included in the analysis after data entry into SPSS software and subsequent structural equation modeling using AMOS software.ResultsAccording to the findings, cyberbullying (β = 0.11,p < 0.05) and cyber victimization(β = 0.41, p < 0.001) were significant predictors of psychotic experiences. Alexithymia partially mediated the relationship between cyberbullying and psychotic experiences with the mediation effect of 0.28 and cyber victimization and psychotic experiences with the mediation effect of 0.18.ConclusionsThese findings underscore the importance of identifying cyber victims or cyberbullies in order to prevent alexithymia and psychotic experiences in future, in order to prevent more serious problems and becoming psychotic.Trial registrationThe goals and conditions of this research were investigated and approved by the Ethics Committee of Alzahra University in Tehran (code: ALZAHRA.REC.1402.055) on 13th September 2023.

Self-management in Older Adults with Multiple Chronic Conditions (MCCs): A Qualitative Content Analysis

Background: The growing population of older adults and the prevalence of multiple chronic conditions (MCCs) among them present significant challenges in care and treatment. Self-management is an effective approach to managing the consequences of MCCs. Objectives: This study aimed to explore the psychosocial and biological factors related to self-management among older adults with MCCs. Methods: This qualitative study employed a content analysis approach from June to April 2023 in hospitals and universities in Tehran. The sample consisted of 26 participants, including older adults with MCCs, family caregivers, and specialists. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews. Purposeful sampling was used, and continued until data saturation was achieved. The rigor of the study was evaluated using the Lincoln and Guba criteria, and analysis was conducted simultaneously with data collection using the Elo and Kyngäs methods. Results: The final analysis identified several factors affecting self-management. A total of 697 semantic units and 336 codes were categorized into 13 subcategories and 4 main categories. These categories included: Individual factors (biological factors, cognitive factors, coexisting diseases, mental health, economic status, health-oriented behaviors), interpersonal factors (interaction with the medical care team, family relationships), factors related to the health system (facilities of medical centers, staff empowerment, health policymaking), and extra-organizational factors (cultural factors, social factors). Conclusions: The findings of this study highlight the factors related to self-management in older adults with MCCs, which can be utilized in the design of self-management programs.

Psychometric properties of the Farsi version of the Disaster Nursing Readiness Evaluation Index (F-DNREI)

BackgroundConsidering the vital role of nurses in responding to disasters, it is essential to measure their readiness with a valid and reliable tool. The present study aimed to assess the psychometric properties of the Farsi version of the Disaster Nursing Readiness Evaluation Index (F-DNREI).MethodsThis cross-sectional study was conducted between 2023 and 2024 among 200 nurses working at educational hospitals affiliated with one of the medical universities in Tehran, Iran. The Disaster Nursing Readiness Evaluation Index was translated into Persian. The face, content, and construct validity, as well as internal consistency, were analyzed.ResultsIn the exploratory factor analysis, five factors were extracted: practical skills for disaster response, adaptability to stressful situations at the disaster site, communication and cooperation skills for teamwork, emergency nursing skills, and effective coping with daily stress. Together, these factors accounted for 39.7% of the total variance. The results of the confirmatory factor analysis indicated that the extracted model fit well: CMIN/DF = 1.519, CFI = 0.889, RMSEA = 0.051. The Cronbach’s alpha and McDonald’s omega coefficients for the entire questionnaire were 0.890 and 0.891, respectively.ConclusionsGiven that Iran is frequently exposed to disasters, it becomes essential to assess the preparedness of Iranian nurses using a valid and reliable scale. The availability of the Farsi version of the Disaster Nursing Readiness Evaluation Index (F-DNREI), which has undergone validation and reliability testing, facilitates accurate measurement of this concept.

The association between self-knowledge from Islamic perspective and mental health among Iranian female students

This study aimed to relate self-knowledge to mental health (from Islamic perspective), and compare it among the female students. Using the Morgan table, we selected 379 students from four universities, namely alzahra University, a single-sex university, the University of Tehran, Shahid Beheshti University, and Kharazmi University. The samples were selected randomly by applying a stratified sampling method. We utilized two instruments: Islamic self-knowledge and general mental health questionnaires. The collected data were analyzed using Pearson Correlation Coefficient, independent samples t-test, and linear regression analysis using SPSS version 25. The results showed that there were significant association between self-knowledge and mental health. However, there were no significant differences between the female students of humanities and sciences, whether from the point of self-knowledge or mental health. The results also showed no significant differences between the students of alzahra University and the female students of the other three universities in self-knowledge and mental health. In each case, the results are compared to Islamic viewpoints (Quran, Hadith, and Quotations from various Islamic thinkers) as well as the psychological viewpoints of Maslow and Rogers. Our findings underline the importance of enhancing self-knowledge among female university students as a protective factor against mental health outcomes (substance abuse, depression, and anxiety) Moreover, Faith based strategies are known to be effective, more accessible than mental health professional services and will carry less stigma in the target community.

The Effectiveness of Metacognitive Therapy on Depression, Emotion Regulation, and Self-concept in Students with Social Anxiety Disorder: A Quasi-Experimental Study

Background: Students with social anxiety disorder (SAD) face unique challenges that can significantly impact their academic performance, social interactions, and overall well-being. Objectives: This study aimed to explore the impact of metacognitive therapy (MCT) on depression, emotion regulation, and self-concept among students diagnosed with SAD. Methods: The study employed a quasi-experimental research design with a pre-test-post-test format and a control group. The statistical population consisted of students diagnosed with SAD at the University of Tehran in 2022. A total of 36 students with SAD were selected for the research sample through purposive sampling and were divided into experimental (n = 18) and control (n = 18) groups. The experimental group participated in ten 90-minute sessions of MCT, while the control group did not receive any intervention. Data collection involved administering the Liebowitz Social Anxiety Scale, Beck Depression Inventory, Emotion Regulation Questionnaire, and Beck Self-concept Test. The collected data were analyzed using multivariate analysis of covariance (MANCOVA) in SPSS-24. Results: The results indicated that Metacognitive Therapy (MCT) significantly decreased depression (F = 50.65, P = 0.001, η² = 0.63) and significantly increased cognitive reappraisal (F = 61.81, P = 0.001, η² = 0.67), expressive suppression (F = 34.72, P = 0.001, η² = 0.54), and self-concept (F = 48.53, P = 0.001, η² = 0.62) in students with SAD. Conclusions: The findings of this study enhance our understanding of the therapeutic benefits of MCT for students struggling with SAD. By addressing critical psychological areas such as depression, emotion regulation, and self-concept, MCT shows promise as a valuable intervention for improving the well-being and functioning of students dealing with SAD.

The Assessment of Effectiveness of Anesthesiology Rotation in Acquiring Proficiency in Cardiopulmonary and Cerebral Resuscitation for Medical Students at Tehran University of Medical Sciences in the Years 2021-2022

Background: Whether in a hospital setting or in the community, medical students are exposed to cardiac arrests. Fast response and effective resuscitation are main determinants for decreasing mortality and morbidity due to cardiac arrests. We assessed the effectiveness of anesthesiology rotation in acquiring cardiopulmonary and cerebral resuscitation for medical students. Methods: A pre-test/post-test quasi experimental design was undertaken, comprising A fortuitious sample of medical students who were undergoing anesthesiology rotation at Tehran University of Medical Sciences hospital complexes during the academic year 2021-2022 using a self-administered questionnaire to evaluate their theoretical comprehension, knowledge, skills and before and after the rotation. Results: The study revealed an increase in theoretical scores (mean dif +2.6/20), increased in self-assessment knowledge scores (mean dif + 0.84/5), as well as an increased in self-assessment skill scores (mean dif +0.96/5). The highest scored were witness in students with previous cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) experience. Conclusion: It is of extreme importance for medical students to participate in anesthesiology rotations. It is essential for possessing the appropriate knowledge and skills to provide effective resuscitation care and gain confidence to perform CPR.

Evaluating the Decision-Making Proficiency Among Medical Residents at Tehran University of Medical Sciences in the Year 2022-2023: A Descriptive Cross-Sectional Study

Background: To evaluate the decision-making proficiency among medical residents at Tehran University of Medical Sciences in the year 2022-2023. Methods: A structured online web-survey via national approved services Author’s designed questionnaire was used to collect the relative data based on variables of the study and was developed by the authors of the study by reviewing the previously conducted studies. The forms were sent to the medical residents at Tehran University of Medical Sciences as a link via electronic mail and social media; assistance was offered via direct or indirect contact upon request. Results: In this study, 88 medical residents of Tehran University of Medical Sciences were evaluated. Out of 88 participants, the frequency of females was 52(59.09%) and frequency of males was found out to be 36(40.91%). The frequency of the first- year residents was 28(37.50), second year residents was 33(21.59), third year residents was 19(9.09) and the fourth- year residents was found out to be 8(31.82). The frequency of different specialties were: Pathology 1(1.14%), Infectious diseases 1(1.14%), Cardio vascular diseases 1(1.14%), Emergency medicine 1(1.14%), Orthopedics2(2.27%), Psychiatry 3(3.41%), ENT 12(13.64%), Internal Medicine 13(14.77%), Pediatrics13(14.77%), OB&amp;GYN 19(21.59%), Anesthesiology19(21.59%), Dermatology 2(2.27%), General Surgery 1(1.14%). Conclusion: There is a significant relationship based on linear regression between not having self - reported availability bias and surgical residency specialties. The surgical specialty is less prone to the availability bias. A difference of communication exists between the surgical and nonsurgical speciality and the nonsurgical specialties need to confirm their decision using other methods to prevent the patient harm.

Investigating the relationship between missed/rationed nursing care and organizational commitment in Iranian nurses

Background and objectiveThe primary objective of the nursing profession is to provide comprehensive and appropriate nursing care that meets the individual needs of patients. However, instances of missed/rationed nursing care can jeopardize the delivery of complete and safe healthcare, potentially putting patients’ lives at risk. The level of organizational commitment demonstrated by nurses is likely to impact various personnel and organizational factors. Therefore, this study aims to predict instances of missed/rationed nursing care by examining the influence of organizational commitment.MethodThis descriptive and cross-sectional study will be conducted in 2023. Three hundred nurses working in general and intensive critical care units at Tehran University of Medical Sciences hospitals were randomly selected. Data collection included Allen and Mayer’s organizational commitment questionnaires, Kalish’s missed care questionnaire, and demographic variables. A multiple linear regression model was used to analyze the prediction of missed care by commitment and other variables. The relationship between these variables was also explored using SPSS version 26 software.FindingsHalf of the nurses reported occasionally missing nursing care. Moreover, more than half of the nurses reported moderate organizational commitment in all dimensions. The most significant reasons identified by nurses for missed care were financial resources, human resources, and communication (p < 0.001). There was a significant relationship between missed/rationed nursing care and organizational commitment (p = 0.042). In the multiple regression equation, a significant portion of missed care due to commitment was predicted when considering demographic variables (p < 0.001).ConclusionBy understanding the relationship between organizational commitment and missed care, and identifying the factors contributing to missed/rationed care, managers can improve the efficiency of human resources and allocate appropriate financial resources. Establishing effective communication with employees can also enhance their commitment to addressing neglected care, ultimately reducing instances of oversight.

The relationship between nurses’ professional commitment and missed nursing care: a cross-sectional study in Iran

Background & aimsMissed nursing care is a global challenge that can have many consequences and it’s known as a common threat to the patient safety and quality of nursing care. The nurses’ professional commitment plays the final role in the occurrence of this issue. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between nurses’ professional commitment and missed nursing care in Iran.Materials & methodsThis cross-sectional descriptive-analytical study was conducted on 270 nurses working in two hospitals affiliated to Tehran University of Medical Sciences (Sina & Shariati) from September to December 2023. The research community included all nurses working in medical-surgical wards in the designated hospitals. The research samples were included in a targeted and quota method after obtaining organizational permits, ethical approval and informed consent. Data collection was done using three questionnaires including demographic information form, Nursing Professional Commitment Scale, and MISSCARE Questionnaire. The collected data was analyzed in SPSS software, version 25.ResultsThe results of Pearson’s correlation test showed that there is a significant negative relationship between nurses’ professional commitment and missed nursing care scores (r=-0.23) (p < 0.001). The mean score of nurses’ professional commitment was reported at a moderate to high level (83.72 ± 16.02) and the mean score of missed nursing care was reported at a low level (47.84 ± 16.48). Nurses over 40 years old, morning shift and employed nurses showed higher professional commitment. Also, nurses under 29 years old and male nurses had more missed nursing care other than their participants. No relationship was observed between other demographic variables with nurses’ professional commitment and missed nursing care.ConclusionThe results of this study showed that higher nurses’ professional commitment leads to higher quality of care and less missed nursing care. Based on findings of this research, it is recommended for health care providers and nursing managers to adopt programs to increase nurses’ professional commitment and consequently reduce missed nursing care.

False Negative Rate of Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy (SLNB) in Breast Cancer Patients after Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy

Background: Managing the axilla in patients with node-positive breast cancer who converted to node-negative patients after neoadjuvant chemotherapy is a challenging issue. We aim to analyze the false negative rate (FNR) of SLNB after neoadjuvant chemotherapy in this group of patients. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, we reviewed the results of SLNB and ALND in 368 breast cancer patients who underwent neoadjuvant chemotherapy from 2015 to 2019. The study included patients with pathologically proven axillary lymph nodes undergoing NAC. We collected the data from the Breast Diseases Research Center of Tehran University of Medical Sciences. Results: The average age of the patients was 46.58±10.91. Of all the patients, 205 (55.7%) had positive SLN in the histologic analysis after surgery, while 163 (44.3%) had negative results. The study also revealed that the FNR of SLNB was 9.8% (n=16). Our results showed that SLN had 86.55% sensitivity and 100% specificity in detecting involved nodes. Furthermore, after multivariable analysis, we observed that a higher number of ALND dissections were associated with a higher FNR (Odds ratio; OR=1.20, 95% CI: 1.02-1.42); while a higher number of SLN excisions was linked with a lower FNR (OR=0.41; 95% CI: 0.17-0.98). Conclusion: After NAC in breast cancer patients with positive lymph nodes, SLNB is feasible with a low FNR; the latter is correlated with the number of nodes removed during the procedure.

Enhancing E-learning in higher education: Lessons learned from the pandemic

This study delves into the intricate realm of evaluating and refining e-learning practices, drawing upon insights from esteemed higher education professionals. Through a qualitative lens rooted in phenomenology, the research engages in semi-structured interviews with 30 faculty members from seven public universities in Tehran, ensuring theoretical saturation. Employing inductive content analysis, the data examination unveils three core categories of challenges: educational assessment, research evaluation, and university services. Emphasizing the significance of internal task performance, adaptability to dynamic environments, and external institutional promotion, the study advocates for the development of a comprehensive evaluation model and tools to uphold program quality, efficiency, and effectiveness. Against the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic, the research highlights the pressing need for Iranian higher education to bolster productivity through strategic resource allocation across education, research, services, and human capital development domains. Such efforts are pivotal in shaping a more prosperous future and bolstering societal scientific and cultural standing.

Introduction and content analysis of "Nurse's voice" WhatsApp group during COVID-19 pandemic: a qualitative study

BackgroundAt the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic in Iran, the School of Nursing and Midwifery of Tehran University of Medical Sciences created several joint virtual groups to connect with people and answer their questions. One of these groups was called "Nurse's Voice,” in which nursing professors answered people's questions. The purpose of the current study was to analyze the content of questions in this WhatsApp group during the COVID-19 pandemic.MethodThis retrospective media content analysis qualitatively analyzed the text of questions and answers extracted from the above-named WhatsApp group.ResultsOut of 629 questions asked, 364 questions (58.0%) were related to COVID-19 and 265 questions (42.0%) were not. Those related to COVID-19 concerned COVID-19 symptoms and diagnosis, prevention and care, fear and worry, and interpretation of laboratory tests. The questions related to prevention and care fell into four subcategories: basic health principles, prevention of COVID-19 infection, care during COVID-19 infection, and care during COVID-19 recovery.ConclusionsNursing and midwifery schools can take advantage of the scientific capacity of professors and students for virtual communication and social accountability by integrating telehealth into their curricula. Cyberspace provides an opportunity for people to ask questions anonymously. With the results of the current study, the educational needs of the people during possible future epidemics can be predicted and answered faster. Furthermore, the large number of questions unrelated to COVID-19 indicates the need for counseling and training of the general public by nurses in all situations.

COMPARATIVE ANTI-TRICHOMONAS VAGINALIS ACTIVITY EVALUATION OF SAMBUCUS NIGRA L. FLOWERS AND FRUITS EXTRACTS

Background: Sambucus nigra or also known as Black elderberry or European elderberry is been used for the teatment and prevention of various diseases. The plant posseses health beneficial effects such as antimicrobial, antioxidant, antiulcerogenic, antidepressant, antidiabetic, antiviral and antiinflammatory. However, there is limited report on the antitrichomoniasis activity of S. nigra. Objectives: The study aimed to comparatively analyze the in vitro trichomonicidal effects of various extracts prepared from both fruits and flowers of S. nigra. Half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) and minimum parasiticide (MPC) values of the extracts against metronidazole-resistant Trichomonas vaginalis 50143 strain were determined by the liquid microdilution method using 96-well microplates. Results: After 48 hrs incubation with parasites, the highest activities were observed for 70% hydroethanolic extract, chloroform extract and methanol extract of fruits with IC50 values of 513, 531 and 566 µg/ml, respectively. Fruit extracts exhibited higher activity than flower extracts, and no activity was observed in methanol extract of flowers. Conclusion: This study is the first comparative analysis of the anti-Trichomonas vaginalis activity of elderberry extracts. This study will serve as a reference source in isolating the components of elderberry fruits with antiparasitic activity. Peer Review History: Received 23 March 2024; Revised 6 May 2024; Accepted 27Metronidazole June; Available online 15 July 2024 Academic Editor: Dr. Amany Mohamed Alboghdadly, Ibn Sina National College for Medical Studies in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, amanyalboghdadly@gmail.com Average Peer review marks at initial stage: 6.0/10 Average Peer review marks at publication stage: 7.0/10 Reviewers: Dr. Sangeetha Arullappan, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Malaysia, sangeetha@utar.edu.my Dr. George Zhu, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran, sansan4240732@163.com

PERIPHERAL BLOOD COUNT RECOVERY TIME COURSE DURING INDUCTION TREATMENT FOR ACUTE LYMPHOBLASTIC LEUKEMIA IN CHILDREN

Background: In recent years, the survival rate of pediatric ALL patients has increased to almost 90%, particularly for individuals with favorable prognoses. This success is mostly attributable to the use of risk-adapted medication, enhanced supportive care, and adjustments to therapy based on each patient's unique pharmacodynamics and pharmacogenomics. This research investigates ALL patients' response to induction chemotherapy, focusing on changes in peripheral blood cell counts and hematological markers, to predict therapeutic outcomes and provide a practical prognostic parameter. Methods: This study involved 100 under 15-year-old patients with newly diagnosed ALL treated in pediatric leukemia units at Kuwait Hospital, Sana'a. Blood markers were collected and analyzed using Epi Info statistical program version 6. The study followed the French, American, and British classifications of pediatric leukemia. Participants were informed of the study's goals and advantages, and their participation was optional. Results: The majority of patients were aged 5-9 years, with a mean age of 6.9 years. Hemoglobin levels were measured before and after treatment, with the mean level being 8.8 mg/dL before and 10.8 mg/dL after treatment. Severe anemia was reported in 10% of patients before treatment and decreased to 2% after treatment. PCV levels were also measured before and after treatment, with the mean PCV level being below normal in 66% of patients before induction chemotherapy but improving to 20% after treatment. The mean RBC count before treatment was 2.9 cells × 106/μl, but improved to 3.8 cells × 106/μl after induction chemotherapy. The study found that over 50% of patients had iron deficiency anemia before and after induction chemotherapy, with a mean neutrophil percentage of 18.2%, lymphocyte percentage of 73.7%, monocyte percentage of 3.8%, and eosinophil percentage of 0.85%. Conclusions: The study reveals that blood cell parameters replenish at different rates during induction chemotherapy, resulting in rapid platelet and slow neutrophil recovery. Changes in blood markers during induction may be prognostic. Peer Review History: Received 6 April 2024; Revised 10 May 2024; Accepted 25 June; Available online 15 July 2024 Academic Editor: Dr. Asia Selman Abdullah, Pharmacy institute, University of Basrah, Iraq, asia_abdullah65@yahoo.com Average Peer review marks at initial stage: 6.5/10 Average Peer review marks at publication stage: 7.0/10 Reviewers: Dr. A.A. Mgbahurike, University of Port Harcourt, Nigeria, amaka_mgbahurike@yahoo.com Dr. George Zhu, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran, sansan4240732@163.com

EVALUATION OF ANTIBIOTIC SENSITIVITY OF ODONTOGENIC BACTERIA IN CERVICOFACIAL CELLULITIS IN THE CITY OF SANGMELIMA, CAMEROON

Aim and objective: Cervicofacial cellulitis of dental origin is a polymicrobial infection characterized by inflammation of the deep spaces of the neck and face. These conditions can be life-threatening, as the bacteria can spread throughout the body, leading to descending necrotizing mediastinitis, sepsis and death. Management is greatly challenging because of microbial polymorphism, probabilistic antibiotic selection treatment sometimes being hesitant and inappropriate because of lack of consensus. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antibiotic susceptibility of odontogenic bacteria in cervicofacial infections. Material and methods: This was a cross-sectional, descriptive study conducted from May 2019 to August 2020 in the odontostomatology and bacteriology departments of the Sangmelima District and Reference Hospitals in Cameroon. Thirty five samples were collected by swabbing or puncture. Specific culture media were used to inoculate samples. Sensitivity of isolated bacteria was assessed using the Kirby-Bauer diffusion disk method. Data analysis was performed using SPSS 23.0. Results: Thirty samples were positive (85.7%). Bacteria isolated were Streptococcus (40%), Staphylococcus (30%), Pseudomonas (20%), Escherichia coli (6.7%) and Lactobacillus (3.3%). Sensitivity testing was performed with amoxicillin/clavulanic acid, metronidazole, gentamicin, ciprofloxacin, imipenem and clindamycin. Bacteria were more sensitive to amoxicillin/clavulanic acid, ciprofloxacin and imipenem. Conclusion: Bacteria identified in purulent secretions from cervicofacial cellulitis are much more sensitive to amoxicillin/clavulanic acid, ciprofloxacin and imipenem. Peer Review History: Received 25 March 2024; Revised 4 May 2024; Accepted 27 June; Available online 15 July 2024 Academic Editor: Prof. Dr. Gorkem Dulger, Duzce University, Turkey, gorkemdulger@yandex.com Average Peer review marks at initial stage: 6.0/10 Average Peer review marks at publication stage: 7.0/10 Reviewers: Dr. George Zhu, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran, sansan4240732@163.com Prof. Hassan A.H. Al-Shamahy, Sana'a University, Yemen, shmahe@yemen.net.ye

Metabolic syndrome in personnel of TUMS☆ and its association with types of occupations: A cross-sectional study

BackgroundMetabolic syndrome (MetS) causes an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and death. Hospital staff as an influential segment of the population are at risk of developing MetS. This study aimed to determine the occupational distribution of MetS in hospital staff and to examine the association between the type of occupation and the likelihood of developing MetS. MethodsIn this cross-sectional study we recruited 3128 personnel of TUMS, including healthcare workers, office workers and supportive workers of Tehran's University Teaching Hospitals during 2020–2022. Demographic, anthropometric indices and laboratory tests were recorded. MetS was determined using three definitions including ATP III recommendations, IDF and regional IDF criteria. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 26. ResultsMetS was observed in 641 (20.5%) subjects according to ATP III recommendations, 923 (29.5%) based on IDF and 713 (22.8%) using regional IDF criteria. Using regional IDF criteria, age, gender and occupational status were associated with the MetS occurrence (all p < 0.0001). Adjusting for the age and gender of participants, healthcare workers were less likely to develop MetS compared to both office workers (OR = 0.66, 95%CI for OR: 0.55–0.80, p < 0.0001) and supportive workers (OR = 0.72, 95%CI for OR: 0.58–0.90, p = .003). However, office workers and supportive workers did not differ significantly regarding this parameter (p = .44). ConclusionRegardless of the MetS definition criteria, the findings indicated an alarming MetS prevalence, particularly among supportive workers and office workers. Considering the significant role of hospital staff in patients’ health promotion, effective management is essential.