Journal of Inflammatory Diseases
Volume:15 Issue: 1, 2011

The emergence of resistance among bacteria makes it necessary to continuously quest for new antimicrobial agents. The present study was performed to evaluate the antibacterial activity of essential oils from Artemisia and Cumin plants. This was an experimental study carried out at the School of Medicine of Tarbiat Modares University (Tehran, Iran) in 2005. Essential oils of Cuminum cyminum, Bunium persicum seeds and aerial parts of Artemisia turcomanica were prepared by hydrodistillation method. Essential oils of A. khorassanica, A. ciniformis, and A. kopetdaghensis were previously obtained and described. The activities of essential oils were evaluated against a clinical isolate of Vibrio cholerae (isolated during the recent outbreak of cholera in Iran), Escherichia coli ATCC25922, a clinical isolate of Staphylococcus aureus, and Staphylococcus aureus ATCC25923 using disc diffusion assay and broth microdilution method for determination of MIC. The components of oils were identified by Gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry. Essential oils showed an acceptable level of antibacterial activities. A. khorassanica and A. turcomanica oils demonstrated the highest activity (inhibition zone: 60 mm) followed by A. ciniformis, A. kopetdaghensis, C. cyminum, and B. persicum, respectively. The major constituent in A. turcomanica oil was camphor and that of Cuminum cyminum and Bunium persicum oils was cuminaldehyde. The results of the present study suggested the effects of essential oils against the tested bacteria in vitro, may contribute to the in vivo efficacy of these oils.

Because of importance and outbreak of dysmenorrhea and It’s effect on life of 50% of population in the world(women), this study was done. To evaluate the therapeutic effects of Stachys lvandulifolia on fatigue, nausea, and vomiting associated with primary dysmenorrhea. This was a randomized clinical trial performed on 50 women aged 18-25 years and 50-60 kg whight suffering from primary dysmenorrhea. Fatigue, nausea, and vomiting were evaluated by visual analogue scale (VAS). Initially, the study population was requested to consume the Stachys lvandulifolia flowers at a dose of 10 gr of brewed powder three time a day and for a total of 5 days (2 days before pain to 3 days after pain), based on a common traditional administration. Later, the members of both groups were followed up for three cycles. Fatigue, nausea, and vomiting as well as the side-effects were evaluated following consumption of brewed powder of Stachys lvandulifolia flowers. Statistical analysis was performed using t-test and chi-square test. Following consumption of Stachys lvandulifolia the level of fatigue considerably reduced among test group and the difference was significant (p=0/000), statistically. Likewise, a significant difference in severity of nausea between the test and control groups was shown (p=0/006). No statistically significant difference regarding the severity of vomiting was established between two groups. According to our data, it could be concluded that the use of Stachys lvandulifolia, based on a traditional administration, causes favorable therapeutic effects by reducing the degree of fatigue and nausea in primary dysmenorrhea with no obvious side-effect yet with no effect on vomiting.

Regarding the undesirable effects of anxiety on physiologic indexes of human body and development of post-surgery intensified symptoms, attempt to reduce the degree of anxiety is of prime necessity. The goal of this study was to study the effect of two verbal and audio methods of training on patient’s anxiety before surgery. This was an empirical study carried out at Imam Khomeini Medical Center in Sari (Iran) during 2009-2010. Three groups of patients, each group consisting of 35 individuals were included in the study. Samples were taken through accessibility while grouping was made completely at random. The research tools were demographic questionnaires, checklist for vital signs as well as characteristics anxiety questionnaires. The results showed significant differences between the two test groups and also the control group in terms of anxiety levels and their conditions two hours before operation (P=0.03). The mean systolic and diastolic blood pressure in the group under verbal education two hours before operation was 17.2±2 and 8.6±1 cmHg, and in group trained with handout 18.9±1 and 8.9±1 cmHg, respectively. There was a significant difference between two test and control groups. Based on results found through this study, it is suggested that at the time a patient is admitted to anesthesia clinic, in addition to routine examinations, some verbal education should be given to lower the unwanted and harmful physiological effects of anxiety which provides a better ground for risk free post-operation recovery for patient.

Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) is a common disorder in the general population. Several studies have suggested that headaches, particularly morning headaches, are more common in patients with OSAS than in normal subjects. This study investigates whether exist correlation between morning headache and polysomnographic sleep parameters. This is a cross sectional study of 150 consecutive patients with OSA who underwent sleep polysomnography. Patients were interviewed about their headache history. Insomnia and subjective sleepiness was assessed using the Insomnia Severity Index and Epworth Sleepiness Scale. Polysomnographic recordings were compared in patients with and without morning headache. Headache and non-headache patients did not differ in the Respiratory Disturbance Index, either in Mean nocturnal SaO2 or sleep efficiency (P>0.05). The headache patients were more likely to be female and spend a lower time in sleep. Insomnia was a common complaint in patients being evaluated for obstructive sleep apnea. No significant association emerged between the Excessive Daytime Sleepiness with headache (P>0.05). Thus, nocturnal hypoxia is less likely to explain the high headache prevalence among patients admitted for polysomnography.

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders are considered as major occupational health problems and undesirable posture during work is one of the most important causes of such problems. Therefore describing the effect of different levels of musculoskeletal system on health-related quality of life and work absence is essential for preventive strategy.

In this study the health- related quality of life in personnel of an assembly line of a car manufacturing company who suffered musculoskeletal disorders was investigated and later compared with healthy subjects.

A case control study was performed on workers of Saipa car manufacturing company who were exposed to musculoskeletal disorders. A total of 165 workers with musculoskeletal disorders and 165 controls were randomly selected. Musculoskeletal disorders were determined using valid and reliable Nordic and SF-36 questionnaires. Data were analyzed using, Chi Square, Odds Ratio, 95% Confidence Interval, and Logistic Regression.

Comparison of physical indicators of quality of life such as physical pain, general health, physical function, and role limitation due to physical problems with indicators of musculoskeletal disorders showed a significant difference between two groups (P<0/001). Musculoskeletal disorders were higher in those with lower quality of life [P<0.001, CI: 95% (0.32-0.82), OR=0.51)]

There was a relationship between the indicator of quality of life and musculoskeletal disorders. Physical conditions and quality of life among workers of assembly line of the car manufacturing company affected the risk of chronic musculoskeletal disorders. Improving and optimizing such conditions play an important role in health- related quality of life.

Technology development has brought about the society with a sedentary life style and an increase in number of chronic diseases. Therefore, to change the pattern of physical activity in adolescents, the recognition of factors affecting such activities is of crucial importance. The aim of this research was to investigate the relationship between the pattern of physical activity in adolescent girls and their mothers’ physical activities, attitudes, and some demographic characteristics. This cross-sectional stud was carried out on adolescents 226 girls aged 11-18 years in 2010. The study population was chosen using a cluster sampling method. Data were collected using a questionnaire of three sections including demographic data, adolescent’s physical activity pattern, and attitude and pattern of physical activity in mother. Data were analyzed using chi-square test and Pearson correlation coefficient. Of 226 girls, 50% found to have 2.07 hours of moderate to strong physical activity while 26.5% with a sedentary life style. A significant relationship between the adolescents’ physical activity pattern and the mother’s physical activity and regular exercise was demonstrated (p<0.005). Also, there was a significant relationship between the adolescents’ regular exercise and the mothers’ exercise. Statistically, a significant correlation between the mothers’ attitude and educational degree and the level of physical activity was shown. According to our results, a sedentary life style among female adolescents is higher than expected which is associated with mother’s pattern of physical activity and affected by the attitude and educational level of mothers. Therefore, it is recommended that part of the educational programs to increase the level of daily physical activity in adolescent girls to be focused on mothers.

Menopause is considered as the cessation of menstrual cycles and reproductive potential. Although the age at menopause is known to affect the development of diseases however, little information on factors affecting the age at menopause is available. The aim of the present study was to determine the menopausal age and affecting factors among the women investigated during the Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study (TLGS). There were 1114 women aged 39-70 in the TLGS who developed menopause naturally. All women were interviewed by a trained interviewer using a standard questionnaire containing questions associated with socio-demographic and reproductive status while a general physical exam was also performed. Menopause was defined according to the WHO classification as a condition of absence of spontaneous menstrual bleeding for more than 12 months, for which no other pathologic or physiologic cause could be determined. Age at menopause (AMP) was calculated for each individual based on report of the last menstrual cycle. Data were analyzed by ordinal regression and ANOVA using SPSS version15. The mean age at menopause was 49.6±4.5. The age at menopause was affected by smoking, menarcheal age, and the number of birth i.e., an increase in menarcheal age and the number of birth caused increased menopausal age while the previous history of smoking resulted in decreased age at menopause. It seems that smoking, reproductive status, and the menarcheal age to be among the factors influencing the menopausal age in Iranian population.

Women have played important roles in their family and women's mental health status influence the family member health. Planning for providing essential mental health service for women requires information about the present status of mental health in women under study. The aim of this study was to assess the mental health status of women in the province of Qazvin. This was a descriptive study in which 1531women, who were referred to women health control bases, responded to a total of 28 questions using the General Health questionnaire-28 (GHQ-28). On a general scale, a score of 23 or higher was considered as a cut-off point to identify the severe forms of mental health disorders in women. Likewise, a score of 14 within the subscales was taken as a cut-off point to diagnose those with mental health problems. Our study indicated that 38.5%of women suffered mental health disorders. The prevalence of psychiatric disorders within the age group 20-29 years (32.6%) and married individuals (75%) were higher than other groups. There was a significant relationship between the age and physical symptoms (p=0.025) and also depression (p= 0.00). In general, the status of mental health in women under study seemed to be unsuitable therefore, paying more attention to women's mental health through systematic education program and preparing applicable plans to promote the level of mental health among women living within the province of Qazvin are recommended.

Noise pollution is considered one of the major environmental problems of cities that its intensity has increased in recent years. Considering the harmful effects of noise pollution on public health, equivalent sound level evaluation and determination of noise pollution is very important in the urban environment. To determine the amount of noise pollution in different regions in Qazvin. This descriptive study was conducted in the summer of 1389 in Qazvin. Sound pressure levels were measured by the sound system gauge model 1053 H. The site map of the city was prepared. Based on the site map prepared, firstly, the city of Qazvin was divided into three regions including South, Central, and North areas. Secondly, the levels of sound pressure were measured in the main streets, intersections, and squares of the city according to the ISO 1999 method that approved by the Environmental Protection Organization. Equivalent sound level was reported in various places in Qazvin region, between 69.9- 72.8 db. Equivalent sound level in the middle and southern regions of the city, has been reported that about twice the northern city. In 90% of the total period of measurement, review of Ninetieth percentile sound level showed that sound pressure level was more than results of the limit recommended for residential and commercial areas. The values of equivalent sound level are reported higher than EPA standards for residential (50 dB) and commercial areas (65 dB). Patterns of urban reform in Qazvin city have a slower development than the resource causing of noise pollution.

Assessing the output of each educational system such as professional state and scientific activities could provide valuable data for training planning. Determining the professional and educational state of midwifery associate degree holders qualified from Qazvin University of Medical Sciences. In this descriptive study, all individuals with an associate degree in midwifery, admitted to Qazvin Nursing & Midwifery College during 1996-2006, were assessed in 2008 -2009. The questionnaires were mailed to all available individuals. After returning of questionnaires, the data on 203 cases were analyzed using descriptive analysis. Of total participants, 88/2% had taken part in the entrance exams for higher academic degrees in midwifery, of which 44.7% were admitted. The academic degrees of study population at the time completed their questionnaires were associate degree in midwifery (68.5%), BSc. in midwifery (30), and MSc in midwifery (1.5%) with 35/5% of associate degree holders unemployed and 11/8% doing their mandatory duties fixed for those qualified from the state-run universities. In general, 68/6% were interested in research activities including participation in research projects, paper presentation as well as contribution in scientific magazines publication. Setting aside those engaged in doing their mandatory duties, the real number of unemployed qualified people is quite high. Regarding the unemployment rate, it might be concluded that one of the reasons to move into higher academic courses is the undesirable conditions of business market for those with an associate degree in midwifery. More attention in recognition and training of those with educational and research merits is suggested.

Gastroenteritis is caused by parasitic and non-parasitic microorganisms. Cryptosporidiosis is one of the parasitic diseases leading to acute or chronic gastroenteritis caused by Cryptosporidium spp. Self-limiting gastroenteritis is observed in immunocompetent individuals, but in immunocompromised patients it causes a sever disease. High humidity, ecological conditions, water supplies, domestic and industrial animal husbandry and the rate of raining have made the Mazandaran regions as a province for transmission of parasites.

The objective of this study was to determine the frequency of cryptosporidiosis among gastroenteritic patients in western cities of Mazandaran Province, during 2007-2009.

This analytical study was conducted in cities of Chalus, Tonekabon, and Ramsar located in west Mazandaran province, northern Iran. Stool samples from patients with gastroenteritis and healthy individuals were collected, fixed and examined by direct method (DM) for the diagnosis of enteropathogenic and non-pathogenic parasites; acid-fast staining (AFS) and auramine phenol fluorescence (APF) for detection of Cryptosporidium oocysts and analysed using ANOVA and t- tests.

The mean prevalence rate of parasitic infections in three cities was 2.38% with the highest rate of infection associated with Giardia lamblia (1.43%), Blastocystis hominis (0.71%), and Entamoeba coli (0.24%), respectively. No Cryptospordium sp. was observed among the test and control groups.

Based on our data, a low rate of parasitic infection and also an absence of cryptospordiosis, compared to the previous studies, in western part of Mazandaran province were established. This may be associated with improvements in public health education, water treatment environmental sanitation, and low animal contacts during recent years.

Infections are believed to occur with increased frequency in patients with diabetes mellitus. The goal of this study was to determine the common infections in diabetic patients referred to Avesina Hospital in Qazvin. This was a cross-sectional study performed on 656 diabetic patients who were referred to Avesina Hospital in Qazvin (Iran) during September 2009 to April 2010. A questionnaire containing demographic information, type of diabetes, duration of disease, and type of infection was completed for each patient. Data were later analyzed using SPSS software and chi- Square Of 656 patients, 126 cases (19.2%) suffered infection and the commonest infections involved were diabetic foot (52%) and urinary tract infection (26%). Considering the data found in our study, attempts to immediately diagnose the type of infection in diabetic patients to reduce the rate of mortality are necessary.

Unplanned Extubation (UE) is a major and well-recognized complication of translaryngeal intubation and is associated with higher morbidity and mortality, prolonged mechanical ventilation, and longer ICU and hospital stay. This cross - sectional study was performed at the 12-bed ICU of Rajaei Hospital in Qazvin over a 6-month period from July to December 2009 to determine the prevalence of UE. This complication is defined as accidental removal of endotracheal tube (ETT) or deliberate removal of ETT by patient. In our study the prevalence of UE was 32%. Since in the present study 92.5% of patients with UE removed their own endotracheal tubes, it seems that more attention in providing proper education associated with fixation of ETT and limiting the patient’s hands is needed.