Preparation and evaluation of the clinical efficacy and safety of tomato lotion containing lycopene 

Introduction: Skin aging starts at around age of 30 with wrinkling and pigmentations as its mainindicators. Delay and prevention of aging is a major concern for a great number of people. Thepurpose of this research was to develop and evaluate the efficacy of an anti-wrinkle tomato lotion,consisting of 5 w/w tomato powder in an oil-in-water (O/W) emulsion.Methods: Different O/W emulsions were prepared and stability tests were done on them. Theformulation that successfully passed the stability tests, was chosen and the Solanum lycopersicumpowder was added to the oily phase of this O/W emulsion. The prepared lotion was evaluated forpharmaceutical tests. In vitro permeation studies were performed to measure permeation throughcellulose acetate membrane by diffusion cell at sink condition. In vivo trial for examination of theanti-wrinkle efficacy of lotion was done on 10 healthy women as case group compared with 10volunteers using the placebo lotion (lotion base without Solanum lycopersicum powder) as controlgroup.Results: According to the experimented results on the formulated lotion, the efficient time durationfor lotion effectiveness was 42 days. Tomato powder formulated in base of lotion significantlydecreased wrinkles. Our formulation was compatible with skin and caused no sensitivity reactionin human modelsConclusion: The Lycopene in Solanum lycopersicum in this formulation has anti-aging effect. Thisformulation might be a strong candidate for treatment of skin wrinkles

Evaluation of Yield and Yield Components of Two Potato Cultivars in Khorasan Razavi Province of Iran

In order to study the yield and yield components of two potato cultivars, an experiment was conducted as a split plot based on a randomized complete block design with three replicates. The experiment was performed in two locations, Jolgeh-Rokh district, and Fariman city, in professional farmers’ fields in Khoarasan Razavi province. The main plots consisted of two potato cultivars, Agria and Fontane cultivars (medium maturing), which were identified as the main cultivars used in chips production factories in the Province. Our results showed higher potential of Agria cultivar for production of stems per plant compared to Fontana cultivar. Both stem number and tuber number per plant along with tuber weight and tuber yield were higher in Fariman location than in Jolgeh-Rokh

Public Investment Models - Case Studies for Iran, Germany, Australia, South Africa in comparison with Norway

This master project investigates public project governance frameworks with respect to cost estimation and user involvement aspects. The objective of this thesis is to understand the differences between governance frameworks for selected case studies and to compare them with the Norwegian appraisal model. The reason for this study is, first, to understand the differences and commonalities for cost estimation and user involvement in the early phase of public projects, and, second, to understand the effect of a framework on the project, which requires understanding of inner functions of the framework. This master thesis comprises six chapters; each of them discusses the different parts of the topic that are required to fulfill the objective. Chapter one is an introductory part and highlights the background of the topic followed by the problem formulation and research objective as well as limitation and report structure employed in this thesis. In Chapter two, the relevant methodology that has been used in this report is explained. The methods for literature search and data collection as well as approaches that have been used to address the research questions and conclusion are also part of this chapter. Chapter three is about the basic concepts and literature review. This chapter is divided into two parts and presents the skeleton of appropriate literature and concepts required for this thesis. Part One briefly describes the base concepts and perspectives about them (i.e. project, project management, life cycle of project, flexibility, uncertainty, and project models). Second Part looks upon more relevant concept for this thesis such as user involvement, governance, corporate governance, and cost estimation; moreover, it includes a brief description of cost estimation models, and describes different perspectives and findings that are relevant to address research questions of this study. Chapters four and five focus on the results obtained for each individual case study through modeling them with respect to the base model (Norway), followed by analyzing and discussing these results in order to address the research questions precisely. The discussion part reach to different statement for each research question, the finding indicates that, achieving reliable early cost estimation in projects require, first the understanding of the corporate governance followed by effective implementation of available legislations with respect to functions for supporting the framework. Correspondingly, it provides the findings about the distinction in procedures and control mechanisms of estimation among all the cases explained by the methods and approaches each case has towards the controlling mechanism. Consensus that can be seen among the case studies is that reliable cost estimate is the main objective; however, there is a significant distinction in approaches and priorities, especially regarding the first steps. The last research question could be addressed by looking upon the role and type of user involvement in the early phases. While the mechanisms for involvement are similar, the approaches differ, i.e. there is a distinction with regard to priorities in sequencing the mechanisms, which, again, refers to the diversity of functions and means that framework finds suitable for its operation. In Chapter six, the conclusion is drawn based on the foregoing chapters. The purpose and the intention of this master thesis could be achieved by comparing the selected case studies (Iran, Germany, Australia, South Africa) with the selected base mode, i.e. Norwegian appraisal model for public investment. This thesis concluded that introducing more legislations for improving cost estimation reliability is not an appropriate approach. This report rather strongly suggests that revising the available legislation and its efficient employment should be the first priority. In addition, to reduce the estimation bias in early phase, this report suggests the application of real time information through building information modeling (BIM) in the governance frameworks. This approach could significantly help to improve the estimation in early phase. Moreover it also looks suitable to control the multifaceted nature of governance and the biases in the estimation

Comparison of Lasix and Methyldopa in Controlling Hypertension in preeclampsia patients: A Double-Blind Randomized Clinical Trial

Introduction: Preeclampsia is a specific gestational syndrome that reduces organ perfusion due to vascular spasm and endothelial activation. Despite the use of magnesium sulfate, the patient's blood pressure sometimes remains uncontrolled, and therefore, it is necessary to use other medications, especially diuretics and Methyldopa. Hence, the aim of this study was to compare Lasix and Methyldopa in controlling postpartum hypertension in preeclampsia patients after magnesium sulfate treatment. Material and Methods: This double-blind randomized clinical trial was carried out on 100 women with preeclampsia referred to Akbar Abadi Hospital-Iran. In the first 24 hours after the termination of pregnancy, the participants’ blood pressure was measured and those with a blood pressure of 140/90 to 160/100 were divided into two groups. In the first and second 24 hours, and then one week after the intervention, systolic and diastolic blood pressure as well as diuresis and drug complications in the two groups were assessed and compared.  The present study was registered in the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT) under the ID of IRCT20180114038349N1. Results: The mean age of individuals was 29.93 ± 6.65 in the Methyldopa group, and 32.35 ± 4.85 in the Lasix group (P = 0.479). Systolic and diastolic blood pressure had a substantial reduction in both groups, but there was no significant difference between the two groups (P> 0.05). Systolic blood pressure was reduced by 31 mmHg (reduction from 146 to 115) in the methyldopa group and 30 mmHg (reduction from 145 to 114) in the Lasix group. Furthermore, the reduction in diastolic blood pressure was 25 mmHg (from 95 to 70) in the methyldopa group, and 21 mmHg in the Lasix one (from 91 to 70). Conclusion: The present study showed that using Lasix and methyldopa was effective enough in changing blood pressure in patients with preeclampsia, and the effects observed in the two groups were the same. Therefore, it could have a great impact on the wellbeing of couples

Canal Transportation and Centering Ability of ProTaper and SafeSider in Preparation of Curved Root Canals: A CBCT Evaluation

Introduction: Maintaining the original central canal path is an important parameter in efficient root canal preparation. Instruments causing minimal changes in original canal path are preferred for this purpose. This study sought to compare canal transportation and centering ability of ProTaper and SafeSider instruments in curved mesiobuccal root canals of mandibular first molars using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). Materials and Methods: In this experimental study, 30 mesiobuccal root canals of extracted human mandibular first molars with 20° to 40° curvature were randomly divided into two groups (n=15). After mounting in putty, preoperative CBCT scans were obtained of teeth. Root canals in group A were shaped using S1, S2, F1 and F2 of ProTaper system. Root canals in group B were instrumented to size 25 using SafeSider system according to the manufacturers’ instructions. Postoperative CBCT scans were then obtained. The distance between the external root surface and internal canal wall was measured at the mesial and distal at 1, 3 and 7 mm from the apex. The values measured on primary and secondary CBCT scans were compared to assess possible changes in original central canal path and canal transportation. Data were compared using the t-test and repeated measure ANOVA. Results: ProTaper and SafeSider were significantly different in terms of canal transportation and centering ability, and ProTaper was significantly superior to SafeSider in this respect (P<0.001). Conclusion: ProTaper (in contrast to SafeSider) is well capable of maintaining the original central canal path with the least amount of transportation.Keywords: Canal Transportation; Cone-beam Computed Tomography; ProTaper; Root Canal Preparation; SafeSide

Family communication patterns of individuals with and without disabilities

The aim of this study was to compare family communication patterns among Iranian individuals with blindness, deafness and individuals with typically developing. The statistical population consisted of all Iranian individuals with blindness, deafness and individuals with typically developing in Shiraz, Iran. The sample consisted of 116 individuals (32 individuals with blindness, 21 individuals with deafness, and 63 individuals with typically developing). The Revised Family Communication Patterns scale was used for measuring the family communication patterns. Multivariate analysis of variance test were used for data analysis. The results showed that conversation orientation in individuals with typically developing were significantly higher than individuals with blindness and deafness (P<.001). Furthermore, conversation orientation in individuals with blindness was significantly higher than individuals with deafness (P<.001). Moreover, the findings showed that the conformity orientation in individuals with blindness and deafness were significantly higher than individuals with typically developing (P<.001). It should be noted that there was no significant difference among individuals with blindness and deafness in terms of conformity orientation. The results of the study indicated that reforming of family communication patterns is essential for individuals with blindness and deafness

Frequency and antimicrobial susceptibility of Shigella species isolated in Children Medical Center Hospital, Tehran, Iran, 2001-2006

AbstractAppropriate antimicrobial treatment of shigellosis depends on identifying its changing resistance pattern over time. We evaluated 15,255 stool culture submitted from July 2001 to June 2006 to the Laboratory of Children Medical Center Hospital. Specimen culture, bacterial identification, and disk diffusion susceptibility testing were performed according to National Committee for Clinical Laboratory Standards guidelines. From 15,255 stool samples, 682 (4.5%) were positive for Shigella species. The most common species of Shigella were S. flexneri (48%) and S. sonnei (45%); other results were S. dysenteriae (5%) and S. boydii (2%). The rate of Sensitivity to ceftriaxone (95%), ceftizoxime (94%), and nalidixic acid (84%) were among our isolates. Resistance to co-trimoxazole and ampicillin was 87% and 86%, respectively. S. flexneri was more multiresistant than other species (47.9%). Our isolates are overall most sensitive to ceftriaxone, ceftazidime, and nalidixic acid (> 84%). They were most resistant to co-trimoxazole and ampicillin (> 86%). Because resistance varies according to specific location, continuous local monitoring of resistance patterns is necessary for the appropriate selection of empirical antimicrobial therapy

Effect of Calcium-D Supplementation on Glucose Control of Patients with Gestational Diabetes

Background: Gestational diabetes (GDM) is a complication of pregnancy that is characterized by intolerance to carbohydrates and metabolic diseases. Gestational diabetes has many maternal and fetal complications that need to be carefully controlled. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of calcium-D supplementation on glucose control of patients with gestational diabetes. Methods: This randomized clinical trial study was performed on 84 pregnant women with GDM. Some inclusion criteria included a positive one-step test during the 24th-28th week of pregnancy and definitive diagnosis of GDM and some exclusion criteria including patients with a previous history of diabetes who required insulin therapy during the intervention. The intervention group were given &nbsp;routine treatment and calcium supplements plus vitamin D and the control group were given routine treatment only. Fasting blood glucose was measured monthly in both groups until the end of pregnancy. All analyses were performed using SPSS software version 16 and related tests like mean± SD, chi-square test and multivariate logistic regression. Significant level was set at 0.05. Results: Of the 84 patients examined, the mean age was 29.4±5.2 years old and there were no significant differences between the two groups (Pvalue= 0.189). The mean BMI of all patients was 25.31±2.72 kg/m2 and there was no significant difference between the two groups (Pvalue= 0.312). The mean of the FBS level at the end of the study in the case group was 91.5±12.9 mg/dl and in the control group it was 98.9±15.8 mg/dl, which was significantly lower in the case group (p=0.014). GDM variables were significantly associated with a positive history of diabetes mellitus (Pvalue&lt;0.033), previous history of GDM (Pvalue&lt;0.013) and FBS (Pvalue&lt;0.001) and there was no significant relationship with other variables. Conclusions: The results of this study showed that calcium-D supplementation has a significant effect on glucose control in patients with GDM and its use is recommended in these patients. &nbsp;Keywords: Gestational diabetes, Calcium, Vitamin D, Glucose

The Effect of Calcium-D Supplementation on Glucose Control of Patients with Gestational Diabetes

Background: Gestational diabetes (GDM) is a complication of pregnancy that is characterized by intolerance to carbohydrates and metabolic diseases. Gestational diabetes has many maternal and fetal complications that need to be carefully controlled. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of calcium-D supplementation on glucose control of patients with gestational diabetes. Methods: This randomized clinical trial study was performed on 84 pregnant women with GDM. Some inclusion criteria included a positive one-step test during the 24th-28th week of pregnancy and definitive diagnosis of GDM and some exclusion criteria including patients with a previous history of diabetes who required insulin therapy during the intervention. The intervention group were given &nbsp;routine treatment and calcium supplements plus vitamin D and the control group were given routine treatment only. Fasting blood glucose was measured monthly in both groups until the end of pregnancy. All analyses were performed using SPSS software version 16 and related tests like mean± SD, chi-square test and multivariate logistic regression. Significant level was set at 0.05. Results: Of the 84 patients examined, the mean age was 29.4±5.2 years old and there were no significant differences between the two groups (Pvalue= 0.189). The mean BMI of all patients was 25.31±2.72 kg/m2 and there was no significant difference between the two groups (Pvalue= 0.312). The mean of the FBS level at the end of the study in the case group was 91.5±12.9 mg/dl and in the control group it was 98.9±15.8 mg/dl, which was significantly lower in the case group (p=0.014). GDM variables were significantly associated with a positive history of diabetes mellitus (Pvalue&lt;0.033), previous history of GDM (Pvalue&lt;0.013) and FBS (Pvalue&lt;0.001) and there was no significant relationship with other variables. Conclusions: The results of this study showed that calcium-D supplementation has a significant effect on glucose control in patients with GDM and its use is recommended in these patients. &nbsp;Keywords: Gestational diabetes, Calcium, Vitamin D, Glucose