ACTA MEDICA IRANICA

Expression Level of MicroRNA-122 in Serum Samples of Patients With Atherosclerosis

Mon, 29 Jun 2026 12:03:16 +0000

Atherosclerosis is another type of arteriosclerosis, characterized by the hardening of arteries, playing a significant role in various cardiovascular diseases. It stands as one of the leading causes of mortality in contemporary societies, especially in advanced countries experiencing higher levels of stress. The primary feature of atherosclerosis is the accumulation of excessive lipid deposits (plaques), obstructing blood flow and leading to strokes and various cardiovascular diseases. While various factors contribute to plaque formation, both environmental and genetic factors play crucial roles. In the cross-sectional study, 80 patients with atherosclerosis, referred to Rajaee Hospital in Tehran and Madani Hospital in Tabriz, along with 80 healthy individuals for comparative analysis, were selected. All relevant information and serum levels of important biomarkers were measured, followed by statistical analysis. MicroRNA extraction was performed using Trizol solution, and CDNA was synthesized by adding polyadenine tails to all microRNA samples. The obtained CDNA was utilized for real-time PCR with LNA primers. The results, normalized using Spike RNA, indicated a significant 90% decrease in the serum levels of these microRNAs in patients with atherosclerosis. The findings suggest that microRNA miR-122 could serve as a promising biomarker for diagnosing atherosclerosis.

Reliability and Validity of the Persian Version of the ATEMPT Questionnaire for Assessing Exercise Adherence in Patients With Musculoskeletal Pain

Mon, 29 Jun 2026 12:06:09 +0000

Compliance with therapeutic exercises is an important factor determining the results in musculoskeletal pain patients; however, there are currently few tools available to assess compliance in a practical and valid manner. The Adherence to Exercise for Musculoskeletal Pain Tool (ATEMPT) is a short self-reporting questionnaire designed to determine the level of compliance with exercises in musculoskeletal pain patients. In this study, translation, cultural adaptation and preliminary evaluation of psychometric properties of the Persian version of the ATEMPT questionnaire have been performed. This pilot methodological study was carried out between July and December 2024 among patients with musculoskeletal problems. For translation, cultural adaptation, and testing of content validity, the 6-item questionnaire of the short form of the ATEMPT was translated into Persian via a forward-backward process and expert review. Content validity of the scale was evaluated by eight sports medicine specialists regarding CVR (Content Validity Ratio) and CVI (Content Validity Index). Face validity was tested in an interview with 30 patients. Cronbach’s alpha was used for analysis of internal consistency, while Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC) was applied for test-retest reliability over 1 week. Convergent validity was determined through correlation with the Persian version of Exercise Adherence Rating Scale (EARS). Thirty patients participated in the study (36.7% males, 63.3% females; mean age of 50.35±13.39 years). The content validity of all items was excellent with CVR of 1.00, Item Level CVI (I-CVI) ranging from 0.875 to 1.00 and scale-level CVI using the average approach (S-CVI/Ave) of 0.98 for all items. The Persian version of the ATEMPT had good internal consistency with Cronbach’s alpha of 0.881 and good test-retest reliability with ICC of 0.880. There was a moderate relationship between the Persian ATEMPT and Persian EARS (r=0.54). The Persian version of the ATEMPT had satisfactory preliminary psychometric properties among patients with musculoskeletal conditions.

Impact of Procollagen III Amino Terminal Peptide and Laminin on Nephropathy in Pre-Diabetic and Type 2 Diabetic Patients

Amanj Zrar Hasan, Mohammed I. Hamzh, Mahmood Shakir Khudhair — Mon, 29 Jun 2026 12:08:23 +0000

Chronic hyperglycemia is one of the most prevalent causes of the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) worldwide, with diabetic nephropathy (DN) being the principal microvascular complication. Laminin is a major non‑collagenous glycoprotein that is an important component of all basement membranes. Serum PIIINP is a precursor of collagen III associated with several inflammatory disorders and tissue fibrosis, including liver and kidney fibrosis. The aim of this study was to assess and compare the concentrations of Laminin (LM), Procollagen III N‑terminal Peptide (PIIINP), and various biochemical parameters in individuals diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, both with and without nephropathy, alongside control subjects, in order to explore the potential of LM and PIIINP as predictive biomarkers for early detection in these patients. A case‑control study was conducted from March 2024 to October 2024. The study included 180 participants (93 females and 87 males) consisting of four groups: Group 1 (45) healthy participants, Group 2 (45) participants with prediabetes, Group 3 (40) T2DM patients with normoalbuminuria, and Group 4 (50) T2DM patients with nephropathy (microalbuminuria and macroalbuminuria). The study was conducted at Al‑Imamin Al‑Kadhimeen City Hospital. Our study showed that the serum concentration of laminin in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus with nephropathy (560.60±66.85 pg/ml) was significantly elevated compared with individuals with type 2 diabetes without nephropathy (359.60±29.83 pg/ml), prediabetes (140.00±19.72 pg/ml), and healthy subjects (113.90±29.65 pg/ml) (P<0.001). Additionally, the mean serum PIIINP value was significantly higher in type 2 diabetes patients with nephropathy (660.90±47.67 pg/ml) compared to those without nephropathy (521.60±80.00 pg/ml), prediabetes (437.80±75.00 pg/ml), and controls (360.30±57.50 pg/ml) (P<0.001). There was no correlation between LM and PIIINP in prediabetes; however, there was a substantial positive correlation between laminin and PIIINP in type 2 diabetes with nephropathy (r=0.67, P<0.001) and in type 2 diabetes without nephropathy (r=0.36, P<0.014).

The Effect of 12 Weeks Endurance, Resistance and Combined Exercise Training on the Levels of Pentraxin 3 and TNF-α in Sedentary Women With Obesity

Mahrokh Kooti, Rahman Soori, Fatemeh Shabkhiz, Parisa Pournemati — Mon, 29 Jun 2026 12:10:41 +0000

It’s reported that different exercise training modalities can exert anti-inflammatory and cardioprotective effects, and present study conducted for investigating the changes in the levels of pentraxin 3 and TNF-α following 12 weeks endurance, resistance and combined training in sedentary women with obesity. The 48 sedentary women aged 20-35 years old with average body mass index 32.1±1.26 kg.m² selected among voluntaries for take part in this research and randomly divided in four 12-subject groups: combined (endurance and resistance), control, endurance and resistance groups. The 12 weeks (three session weekly) duration protocol, designed for all training modalities. The 60 % of reserve heart rate and 75 % of 1RM, considered for intensity of endurance and resistance training program respectively. Blood sampling performed at the baseline and 2 days after last training session. Following measurement of variables levels, data were analyzed with ANCOVA test and Bonferroni post‐hoc test. Pentraxin 3 levels don’t change significantly after 12 weeks interventions (P=0.402), but TNF-α level significantly decreased in endurance (P=0.033) and combined (P<0.001) training groups compared to the control group. Although, body fat percentage reduction was observed in all trained groups (P<0.001), but its reduction was also significant in endurance and combined training groups compared to the resistance training group (P<0.001). Although we don’t observe a significant change in the pentraxin 3 levels with different training, it seems that the anti-inflammatory effect of endurance and combined training (indicated by TNF-α reduction) is related to the further effect of these training in decrease in body fat mass, as a main source of inflammation.

Medical Interns' Perspectives on the Educational Environment in Cardiology and Dermatology Settings at an Iranian University

Maryam Zare, Mahdi Hashempour, Fatemeh Tahmasebi Boldaji, Zohreh Khoshgoftar — Mon, 29 Jun 2026 12:13:53 +0000

The quality of the educational environment is one of the key determinants of students' learning experiences and academic performance. This study aimed to assess medical interns' perceptions of the educational environmental quality in dermatology and cardiology wards at Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences (AJUMS). A descriptive cross-sectional design was employed, utilizing the Dundee Ready Education Environment Measure (DREEM) and the Ambulatory Care Learning Educational Environment Measure (ACLEEM). Data was analyzed using SPSS version 24, employing parametric tests for statistical analysis, including independent t-tests and Pearson’s correlation. Among 146 questionnaires distributed, 123 were completed (84% response rate) out of which 54.5% were female, 78.9% single, and mean age was 25.80±1.299 years. The total mean DREEM score was 119.03±23.71, indicating a moderate educational environment, with dermatology scoring significantly higher than cardiology (P<0.05). The total mean ACLEEM score was 104.92±27.03, with dermatology rated as optimal and cardiology as semi-optimal (P<0.05). Significant differences were noted in perception of learning, teachers, and atmosphere. Married interns had more positive perceptions. Age was mildly correlated with DREEM scores. While the educational environment in dermatology and cardiology wards at AJUMS is perceived as relatively favorable, the outpatient cardiology clinic requires significant improvements. Key areas requiring improvement included faculty engagement, feedback mechanisms, and infrastructural support

Kallistatin Levels in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Novel Biomarker for Insulin Resistance and Metabolic Dysregulation: A Case-Control Study

Rehab Refaat Raheem, Hanan Jassim Hammod — Mon, 29 Jun 2026 12:16:40 +0000

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most prevalent endocrine disorder among women of reproductive age. Characterized by a heterogeneous constellation of hormonal, metabolic, and reproductive abnormalities, PCOS manifests through three cardinal features: oligo‑ or anovulation, clinical or biochemical hyperandrogenism, and polycystic ovarian morphology. This disorder is associated with major metabolic consequences, such as an increased risk of developing metabolic syndrome. This study aimed to investigate the potential role of kallistatin as a biomarker for PCOS, focusing on its association with insulin resistance (IR) and its regulatory function in inflammation. In this study, 30 healthy controls were matched with 60 patients with PCOS based on BMI, height, weight, and age. The study was carried out in the Fertility Center, Department of Gynecology, at Al‑Zahraa Teaching Hospital and Al‑Sadr Medical City from January 10, 2024, to January 24, 2025. Kallistatin levels were measured using ELISA, and insulin resistance was determined using the HOMA‑IR index. The study compared metabolic and hormonal parameters between 60 PCOS patients and 30 healthy controls. Significant differences (P<0.001) were observed: PCOS patients exhibited elevated insulin levels (14.91±3.01 vs. 8.22±2.47) and HOMA‑IR (3.77±1.01 vs. 1.74±0.52), along with reduced kallistatin levels (2.34±0.76 vs. 5.59±1.58 ng/ml). A notable correlation was found between kallistatin levels and both insulin resistance and lipid profiles. This study provides compelling evidence for the potential role of kallistatin as a biomarker for PCOS. The findings revealed significantly lower kallistatin levels in PCOS patients than in healthy controls, suggesting its potential utility in the diagnosis and prognosis of the condition.

The Rise of AI in Iranian Medical Research: A Bibliometric Analysis

Mon, 29 Jun 2026 12:40:37 +0000

Artificial intelligence-powered healthcare system enhances disease prediction, diagnosis, and therapy, providing advantages to patients and healthcare practitioners. In this regard, this study aims to analyze the evolution of artificial intelligence (AI) research within Iranian healthcare from 2000 to 2025, focusing on its implications for medical practice and patient outcomes. A bibliometric analysis was conducted using data retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection. The analysis included publication trends, leading authors, institutions, and keyword dynamics, emphasizing the significance of machine learning and predictive analytics in clinical applications. Our findings reveal a significant 13.1-fold increase in AI-related publications over the past decade, underscoring AI's growing role in healthcare advancements in Iran. Islamic Azad University emerged as the leading institution, while key authors and collaborative networks were identified. The keyword analysis highlighted "Machine Learning" as the most frequent term, indicating a shift towards predictive analytics in medical research. The results emphasize the transformative potential of AI in enhancing clinical decision-making and patient care delivery systems. As AI continues to integrate into healthcare practices, it presents opportunities for improved patient outcomes. This study serves as a vital resource for practitioners and policymakers aiming to effectively harness AI's capabilities in the Iranian healthcare landscape.

Correlation Between ncRNA Gene Profiles and NEIL1 Expression in Breast Cancer

Samaa M. Sayel, Owayes M. Hamed — Mon, 29 Jun 2026 12:42:33 +0000

Endonuclease VIII-like 1, a crucial DNA repair enzyme encoded by the Neil1 gene, is essential for shielding the genome from oxidative damage. It is an essential part of the Base Excision Repair (BER) pathway, which fixes minor but dangerous DNA defects. We describe how the Neil family contributes to cancer’s harmful biological characteristics. The aim is to detect some types of ncRNA genes that can be used as molecular markers for breast cancer. The methodology involves detecting the gene expression levels of the Neil1 gene and several ncRNA genes, including miRNA‑3912‑3p, snoRNA SNHG7, and lncRNA BC069792, using the qPCR technique. The results showed increased expression levels of the Neil1 gene (2.435), miRNA‑3912‑3p (12.34), lncRNA BC069792 (6.11), and snoRNA SNHG7 (5.08) in patients with biopsy samples, while decreased expression levels were observed for all genes in blood samples compared with healthy cases. The conclusion from this study suggests that miRNA‑3912‑3p may be considered a regulatory factor for the Neil1 gene and a potential biomarker for breast cancer.

Renal Function in Children With Congenital Heart Defect

Noor Mohammad Noori, Simin Sadeghi Bojd, Alireza Teimouri — Mon, 29 Jun 2026 12:45:01 +0000

Congenital heart defects (CHDs) are the most common type of congenital birth defect. The study aimed to assess the effect of CHD on renal involvement in comparison with the controls. This case control study conducted on 140 children with CHD and 70 healthy children in the years of 2022 and 2023. CHD diagnosis and based on the level of O2 saturation divided in CCHD and aCCHD. Potassium, sodium, hemoglobin in blood and creatinine and albumin in urine were measured in all participants. Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is considered as a marker of renal involvement. The data analyzed with SPSS 22 and the level of significant considered equal or less than 0.05. Sex distribution was similar in groups of participants (X2=0.976, P=0.614). About 36.10% of the children with CCHD had renal involvement when this rate was 6.30% and 2.90% in aCCHD and the controls respectively (X2=36.154, P<0.001). Pairwise comparisons showed (C.C=0.350, P<0.001), (C.C=0.394, P<0.001), (C.C=0.082, P=0.317) for the pairs of CCHD-aCCHD, CCHD-Controls and aCCHD-Controls, respectively. The children with CCHD had odds ratio of 19.179 and the children with aCCHD had an odds ratio of 2.297 related to the reference (controls) group. The study concluded that children with cyanotic congenital heart disease (CCHD) exhibited a significantly higher risk of renal involvement compared to those with acyanotic congenital heart disease (aCCHD) and healthy controls. The chronic hypoxemia characteristic of CCHD may lead to compensatory erythrocytosis, resulting in elevated hemoglobin levels, which in turn may contribute to renal impairment through mechanisms such as increased blood viscosity, reduced renal perfusion, and glomerular injury.

Intra Coronary Pus Excretion Without Cardiac Abscess Formation as a Manifestation of Acute Culture Negative Endocarditis Associated With Acute Coronary Syndrome: A Rare Presentation

Mon, 29 Jun 2026 12:47:43 +0000

This case report describes a 27-year-old male intravenous cannabis user who presented with a week-long history of fever and dyspnea on exertion, subsequently developing typical chest pain in the last two days. Upon admission, the patient exhibited febrile tachycardia, pale and cold extremities, and a systolic murmur at the left sternal border. Laboratory findings included significantly elevated CRP, ESR, thyroid-stimulating hormone, and liver enzyme levels, alongside leukocytosis, anemia, hyperglycemia, hyponatremia, abnormal renal function tests, suspected anti-HCV antibody, and elevated cardiac troponins. Echocardiography revealed moderate left ventricular enlargement with severe systolic dysfunction, moderate right ventricular dysfunction, severe left atrial and mild right atrial enlargement, and a thickened, prolapsed bileaflet mitral valve with a large mobile mass on the atrial surface of the anterior mitral leaflet. The condition led to severe acute mitral regurgitation. Additional findings included moderate tricuspid regurgitation, moderate pulmonary arterial hypertension, mild circumferential pericardial effusion, and significant bilateral pleural effusion. Despite these findings, blood cultures were negative, suggesting culture-negative endocarditis. Elevated cardiac troponin levels and Q wave formation on septal leads warranted angiography, which revealed a cut-off first septal artery. The patient underwent mitral valve replacement and coronary artery bypass grafting, during which intracoronary pus excretion under high pressure was observed, indicating septic embolization to the coronary arteries. This case highlights the rare mechanism of acute coronary syndrome development through septic embolization in the setting of culture-negative acute endocarditis.