Subjects = Drug Design and Study
Number of Articles: 8
Comparative Outcomes of Minimally Invasive Versus Open Esophagectomy for Distal Esophageal Cancer: A Retrospective Cohort Study from a Tertiary Referral Center

Comparative Outcomes of Minimally Invasive Versus Open Esophagectomy for Distal Esophageal Cancer: A Retrospective Cohort Study from a Tertiary Referral Center

Volume 5, Issue 1, Winter 2026, Pages 27-34

https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17202426

Hossein Gandomkar, Ali Asghar Yazdani, Zahra Moghimi, Habibollah Mahmoodzadeh, Ehsan Sobhanian

Abstract Introduction:

This study aimed to compare the outcomes and complications of MIE versus OE in patients with distal esophageal cancer.

Materials and Methods:

This retrospective cohort study included 196 patients with distal esophageal cancer treated between 2015 and 2021 at two tertiary hospitals in Tehran. Patients were equally divided into MIE (n=98) and OE (n=98) groups. Preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative variables including surgical duration, pain intensity, intraoperative blood loss, transfusion requirements, hospital stay, and complication rates were collected and analyzed using SPSS version 23. Appropriate statistical tests were applied with a significance level set at p<0.05.

Results:

The mean duration of surgery was significantly shorter in the MIE group compared to the OE group (280.71 ± 44.83 vs. 425.36 ± 51.69 minutes, p<0.001). MIE patients experienced significantly less intraoperative blood loss (297.14 ± 89.29 vs. 503.57 ± 122.02 mL, p<0.001), required fewer blood transfusions (2.14 ± 0.52 vs. 2.64 ± 0.90 units, p<0.001), and had a shorter hospital stay (14.14 ± 3.27 vs. 18.64 ± 4.31 days, p<0.001). Postoperative pain was also lower in the MIE group (2.86 ± 1.36 vs. 3.43 ± 2.48, p=0.048). However, the number of lymph nodes dissected was significantly higher in the OE group (18.50 ± 3.48 vs. 9.57 ± 3.79, p<0.001), and the incidence of chylothorax was greater in the MIE group (7 vs. 1 cases, p=0.030). There was no statistically significant difference in tracheal injury between the groups (p=0.054).

Conclusion:

Minimally invasive esophagectomy offers several clinical benefits over open surgery, including reduced blood loss, lower postoperative pain, shorter operative time, and decreased hospital stay. However, it is associated with a higher incidence of chylothorax and a lower lymph node yield, possibly due to the learning curve and technical nuances.

Comparison of Modified Meek Technique with Standard Mesh Method in Patients with Third Degree Burns

Comparison of Modified Meek Technique with Standard Mesh Method in Patients with Third Degree Burns

Volume 4, Issue 4, Autumn 2025, Pages 388-395

https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17195315

Mostafa Dahmardehei, Ali Dahmardehei, Zahra Dahmardehei, Maryam Milanifard, Mohammad parash Monazzah, Melika Behjati

Abstract BACKGROUND:

Severe burn injuries require prompt wound coverage to prevent complications such as infection, electrolyte imbalances, and organ failure. Skin grafting is a common approach, but limited donor sites pose challenges in extensive burns. The Meek technique offers high expansion capacity and is especially effective in poorly vascularized wounds. Most previous studies have been cross-sectional, with few directly comparing Meek and mesh grafts. This study aims to compare clinical outcomes of both techniques on different anatomical sites within the same patients.

METHODS:

This case-control study enrolled patients with third-degree burns admitted to St. Fatima Hospital in Tehran. Each patient received both mesh and modified Meek grafts on different body areas following surgical debridement. Key outcomes—including graft take, re-epithelialization time, hospital stay, and complications—were recorded and analyzed using SPSS. Ethical approval and informed consent were obtained.

RESULTS:

Among 20 patients with third-degree burns, the modified Meek technique showed significantly faster re-epithelialization (2.8 vs. 5.0 months, p=0.01), higher epithelialization within one month (55% vs. 15%, p=0.03), shorter operative time (p=0.036), and greater expansion ratio (p=0.04) compared to the mesh method. Graft rejection and infection rates were lower in the Meek group but not statistically significant.

CONCLUSION:

The modified Meek technique resulted in faster re-epithelialization, shorter operative time, and greater expansion compared to the mesh method. These advantages support its use as a preferred grafting option in extensive burn cases.

Nanomaterials in Drug Delivery Systems: Challenges and Perspectives

Nanomaterials in Drug Delivery Systems: Challenges and Perspectives

Volume 4, Issue 1, Winter 2025, Pages 48-62

https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.18792502

Saeid Sabzehali

Abstract Nanomaterials have emerged as a transformative technology in drug delivery systems, offering unique properties that enhance therapeutic efficacy and safety. Their small size, high surface area, and ability to be engineered for targeted delivery enable improved solubility, controlled release, and reduced side effects of pharmaceuticals. This paper discusses various types of nanomaterials used in drug delivery, including nanoparticles, liposomes, and dendrimers, highlighting their mechanisms of action and advantages over conventional delivery methods. Despite their potential, the integration of nanomaterials in clinical applications faces several challenges, including manufacturing scalability, regulatory hurdles, bio distribution unpredictability, and concerns regarding toxicity and biocompatibility. Additionally, complex interactions between nanomaterials and biological systems pose significant hurdles. The future of nanomaterials in drug delivery lies in innovative approaches, such as personalized medicine and biodegradable carriers, necessitating continued interdisciplinary research and collaboration. This review aims to provide insights into the current status and future perspectives of nanomaterials in drug delivery, emphasizing the importance of overcoming existing challenges to fully harness their potential in enhancing patient outcomes.

Emerging Infectious Diseases: Strategies for Prevention and Control

Emerging Infectious Diseases: Strategies for Prevention and Control

Volume 4, Issue 1, Winter 2025, Pages 88-104

https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.18792545

Pourya Abdoos

Abstract Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses that, according to evidence, can cause diseases ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases such as Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) or even more severe diseases such as Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS). Epidemiology A disease, whether contagious or non-contagious, may be more or less common in some areas and under some conditions among a large number of people. In other words, a disease can be more or less common. The science that studies how diseases spread and what causes them to spread is called epidemiology, which is a branch of medical science. Basically, epidemiology seeks to prevent the occurrence and spread of a disease or to control it if it does spread. Communicable diseases are a type of infectious disease that can be transmitted from person to person or to humans through insects and other animals. This disease can also be transmitted by organisms in contaminated water or food that has been exposed to the environment by an infected person. For example, a sick child's cough is one way to transmit a cold or flu to others, which must be well taken care of and prevented. In general, the factors that because infectious diseases include viruses, bacteria, and parasites. The signs and symptoms of infectious diseases will also vary depending on the agent causing the infection.

Sports Musculoskeletal Injury in the Professional Athlete with Clinical and Rehabilitation Point

Sports Musculoskeletal Injury in the Professional Athlete with Clinical and Rehabilitation Point

Volume 4, Issue 1, Winter 2025, Pages 116-128

https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.18792692

Mehdi Saffarijourshari, Elham Zolala

Abstract Pre-participation screening and evaluation is an effective strategy for predicting and preventing injuries in athletes before participating in organized sports. Sports injuries are very difficult and dangerous experiences that athletes face during their sports activities. Even after recovery, psychological factors such as fear of movement and anxiety can affect the return to sports. The aim of the study was to compare fear of movement or re-injury and anxiety caused by pain in athletes with and without a history of musculoskeletal injuries. Another problem that leads to injury in high-level athletes, especially national and professional athletes, is overuse of the spine, various organs and joints of the body, without considering sufficient recovery time. Depletion of energy reserves and body resources from nutrients and lack of proper replacement, impaired recovery, insufficient or poor quality sleep, abuse of stimulant drugs, anabolic steroids, peptides, along with technical errors, are the main factors in the occurrence of musculoskeletal injuries. Some of the equipment and techniques available in bodybuilding and functional training are used in rehabilitation and are used by sports medicine and rehabilitation specialists. Paying attention to strengthening the core muscles of the body with specific techniques and methods plays an important role in preventing spinal injuries, and specific and precise methods are used to improve the strength and fitness of these areas.

Systematic review of neurological problems and stress in Alzheimers patients with drug tips

Systematic review of neurological problems and stress in Alzheimer's patients with drug tips

Volume 3, Issue 5, Autumn 2024, Pages 114-128

Mahsa Afrand

Abstract Introduction: Alzheimer's disease is a brain disorder that causes the brain to shrink and eventually die brain cells. The present study systematically reviewed neurological problems and stress in Alzheimer's patients with drug tips.

Materials and methods: An extensive search strategy was developed for literatures by 50 article. To obtain scientific evidence related to the prevalence of old age sufferings in the elderly in Iran from articles published in interior and foreign databases such as Scientific Information Database (SID), Magiran, Web of Science, Psyc INFO, PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar search engine were used. All articles, regardless of the time period, were searched in the databases until September 2024. PRISMA 2020 checklist was used in order to screen articles, extract data and brief related findings.

Results: The most common symptoms of Alzheimer's are forgetting recent events or conversations and difficulty remembering newly learned information. Over time, memory problems become more severe and the person eventually loses the ability to perform daily tasks. After a while, patients usually have difficulty finding the right words to express their thoughts and will need more time to complete routine daily tasks. Some brain imaging tests can detect protein deposits called amyloid in the brain, allowing treatment before the onset of major symptoms.

Conclusion: Dementia also affects other body systems, such as breathing. For example, as the gray matter of the brain deteriorates and the person loses the ability to perform certain voluntary actions, such as moving the diaphragm, the patient becomes susceptible to diseases such as pneumonia, which shortens their lifespan. Therefore, it is not possible to make a definitive judgment about the lifespan of a person with Alzheimer's.

Association of Hematologic Findings with the Final Outcome of Patients with Abdominal Trauma

Association of Hematologic Findings with the Final Outcome of Patients with Abdominal Trauma

Volume 3, Issue 5, Autumn 2024, Pages 214-225

Parisa Mehrasa, Abdolreza Mehdinavaz Aghdam

Abstract Background: Abdominal trauma is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Hematologic parameters, including hemoglobin, white blood cell count (WBC), platelet count, prothrombin time (PT), activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), and C-reactive protein (CRP), have been shown to correlate with clinical outcomes in trauma patients. This study aims to evaluate the relationship between hematologic findings and clinical outcomes in patients with abdominal trauma, including complications, mortality, and length of hospital stay.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at Imam Reza Hospital, Tabriz, with 120 patients diagnosed with abdominal trauma. Blood samples were collected upon admission, and various hematologic parameters were assessed. Patients were grouped according to their clinical outcomes, including mortality, complications (such as infections, organ failure, and need for surgical intervention), and length of hospital stay. Statistical analysis was performed to evaluate the association between hematologic parameters and outcomes.

Results: Lower hemoglobin levels, elevated WBC counts, prolonged PT and aPTT, and high CRP levels were significantly associated with worse clinical outcomes, including increased complications, longer hospital stays, and higher mortality rates. The mean hemoglobin was lower in the complication group (10.2 g/dL) compared to the non-complication group (12.5 g/dL). The WBC count, platelet count, and CRP levels were also significantly higher in the complication group. Elevated PT and aPTT were associated with the need for surgical interventions and prolonged hospital stays.

Conclusion: Hematologic markers, including hemoglobin, WBC count, platelet count, PT, aPTT, and CRP, play a critical role in predicting clinical outcomes in patients with abdominal trauma. These parameters can be used for early risk stratification, guiding clinical decisions and improving patient management. Early identification of abnormal hematologic values can lead to timely interventions, improving the prognosis of trauma patients.

Evaluation of Range of Motion, Pain Intensity, and Patient Satisfaction in the First Six Months Following Hallux Valgus Surgery: A Systematic Review Abstract

Evaluation of Range of Motion, Pain Intensity, and Patient Satisfaction in the First Six Months Following Hallux Valgus Surgery: A Systematic Review Abstract

Volume 3, Issue 5, Autumn 2024, Pages 226-238

Fatemeh Dorosti, Seyed Hamed Ghaffari

Abstract Background: Hallux valgus is a common foot deformity that often leads to pain, functional impairment, and reduced quality of life. This systematic review aims to evaluate the range of motion (ROM), pain intensity, and patient satisfaction in the first six months following hallux valgus surgery.

Methods: A comprehensive search of PubMed and other relevant databases was performed to identify studies published on hallux valgus surgery outcomes. Studies were included if they assessed postoperative pain intensity, ROM, and patient satisfaction within six months. Data were extracted, and the outcomes were synthesized.

Results: Eight studies met the inclusion criteria, involving various surgical techniques, including osteotomies and joint fusions. Pain intensity decreased significantly in all studies, with Visual Analog Scale (VAS) scores improving from 7.5-8.5 preoperatively to 1.2-3.0 postoperatively. ROM showed substantial improvements, with increases of 20°-35° by the six-month follow-up. Patient satisfaction was high across studies, with most reporting scores above 80 out of 100 on the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) scale.

Conclusion: Hallux valgus surgery significantly improves pain, ROM, and patient satisfaction within the first six months. These findings support the effectiveness of surgical interventions for hallux valgus in enhancing both functional outcomes and quality of life. However, further studies with larger sample sizes and long-term follow-up are necessary to confirm the sustainability of these improvements.