Comparison of Ardabil people's utilization of national media and satellite networks in receiving news

Virtual social networks nowadays play a very important role in getting and receiving daily news. Therefore, it is necessary to know the extent and reasons for users to use this tool and compare it with other media. Therefore, it is essential to know the extent and reasons for users to utilize this tool and compare it with other media. This study aimed to investigate the comparison of the use of Ardebil people from social networks and other media in receiving the news. In this descriptive-inferential study 400 Ardabil people were randomly selected. The validity and reliability of the questionnaire developed by the researcher were obtained and completed by the participants. The data were then analyzed using SPSS software. Research findings show that participants prefer to gain news from social networks to other media and most of them think that using social media has been able to reduce the utilization of other media. The findings show that the use of social media in news coverage has somewhat reduced the amount of time spent watching television and satellite. The reasons for this media shift in news acquisition include the social networking content attractiveness in the indicators of accuracy and transparency, the speed of dissemination, the neutrality of news, the latest visual reports, the visual and auditory attractions, the attention to quality of programs, attention to Respondents cited low censorship, addressing issues of interest to audiences, using news images, and using expert view of other media as sources of news. The participants also believed that social networks have a low level of censorship and news silence. Since the national media should be the most important medium in getting the news to a community, as an emerging media social networks have been able to take deep root in human life. These networks have positive features, but on the other hand, they have problems that need special attention.

Strategic planning in media organizations of Iran

Organizations with activities of all kinds are influenced by environmental conditions, and external environment is in fact the beginning point of the strategy. Strategic management is an approach resulting from fast changing age and can consider it as a view and a technique for flexible planning to fast changes, and balanced score card is regarded as one of the strong instruments in this zone. Balanced score card can truly plays an important role in all stages of strategic management and the efficiency of this model is considerably regarded in management performance evaluation in different organizations. However, strong instrument such as balance score card is hardly used because of long term dominance of political approaches in the management of Iran media organizations. This paper conceptualizes administrational trend of strategic planning by implementing balanced score card and we draw strategy map and determine performance indexes in a written media organization (Hamshahri Newspaper)

Digital Diplomacy as a Tool for Empowering Governments: Formulating a Strategy for the Islamic Republic of Iran

Introduction                                   The information revolution has significantly altered the nature of power by enhancing the capacity of soft power and reshaping the very foundations of power structures. In the past, leaders and politicians were the primary figures to determine national interests in each nation, but in the digital age, the Internet and social networks have functioned to eliminate the mediatorship, leading to the highlighted role of the individual, the emergence of public opinions, and distribution of power from the government to people and other key actors. Today, power derived from public opinions is considered by political actors as a potent instrument for accomplishing political objectives.Iran’s Twenty-Year Vision Document, looking ahead to 2025, outlines a comprehensive objective of the Islamic Republic of Iran as to attain a preeminent economic and technological position in the region while preserving its Islamic and revolutionary identity, being a source of inspiration in the Islamic world, and engaging in a constructive interaction in international relations. To secure the top economic position in the region and an influential position in the international arena, it is imperative to leverage the capabilities of the country’s diplomatic apparatus. Diplomacy serves as the executive arm of foreign policy within the framework of a country’s foreign policy doctrine. To thrive in the evolving global landscape requires possessing modern tools since the shifting global landscape demands novel tools and approaches. In today’s world, powerful governments employ soft power instruments to influence and sway societies.Diplomacy stands as one of the most critical tools for advancing a country’s national power and achieving its objectives. Leading governments have embraced digital diplomacy as a means to bolster their national brand and effectively manage their public image, thus reaching vast audiences. In the contemporary age of communication, a formidable presence on the global stage necessitates the strategic implementation of digital diplomacy, positioning it at the forefront ofa country’s public diplomacy initiatives. In this respect, the present research aimed to recognize the role of digital diplomacy as a pivotalpower-building instrument, and to incorporate it into Iran’s strategic planning.This research intended to offer a full-brown description of digital diplomacy by delving into the power-building factors of modern media. The objective was to formulate effective strategies that enhance the digital diplomacy initiatives of the Islamic Republic of Iran, thereby strengthening Iran’s influential presence in global politics and increasing Iran’s soft power as an important dimension of power. The research tried to address the pivotal question concerning the role modern media can assume within a country’s diplomatic apparatus. This would involve understanding how media can contribute to advancing national interests and bolstering a country’s influence and authority in the international arena. This research also sought to propose key indicators and strategies for advancing Iran’s digital diplomacy initiatives.Literature ReviewNumerous case studies and comparative analyses have explored digital diplomacy, underscoring the significant impact of social media in international diplomacy. However, despite the close interconnection of technology, diplomacy, and soft power, there is a lack of research that systematically situates these three domains within a theoretical framework and examines international relations theories by considering the role of modern media on the power-building capacity of diplomacy.In the article titled “Shaping Public Diplomacy through Social Media Networks in the 21st Century,” Costa (2017) posits that the Internet and information and communication technology have significantly influenced the definition and performance of public diplomacy. In “Foreign Policy in an Era of Digital Diplomacy,”Adesina (2017) draws the conclusion that digital diplomacy and internet-based activities play a vital role in effectively communicating a government’s foreign policy stances to both domestic and international audiences.  In the article titled “Twitplomacy: Social Media as a New Platform for Development of Public Diplomacy,” Su (2015) argues that the impact of Internet users on the diplomatic agenda can complement political concepts. Considering the role of social media in the public diplomacy of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Ameli (2017) asserts that emerging social media technologies will play a central role in diplomacy by influencing social space.Ganjidoust (2008) focuses on the profound impact of information and communication technology in the field of diplomacy. The author contends that diplomacy has experienced greater influence from technological advancements compared to other domains, primarily because of its heavy reliance on the fundamental components of information and communication. According to Ganjidoust, the developments of the information age have brought about significant transformations in both the form and substance of diplomacy.Materials and MethodsThe Delphi technique was employed for identifying indicators, while the Dimetal technique was utilized for modeling. The study used Partial Least Squares technique to test the exploratory model and analyze the reciprocal influence between variables.ConclusionThe findings revealed that modern media plays a pivotal role as a complete mediator in the transfer of power to diplomacy. Through online communication, new media platforms foster interaction and networking among users. They employ activism, imagery, and psychological operations to craft their desired narrative, thus reinforce user engagement and convergence through orienting and streamlining, Ultimately, by fostering a sense of belonging, they establish identity and create opportunities within the system of diplomacy.To succeed in public diplomacy, particularly in the realm of digital diplomacy, requires a comprehensive strategy encompassing strategic goals, strategic priorities, and executive guidelines to attain the strategic goals. Concerning the Islamic Republic of Iran, the strategic goals are as follows: Making a powerful image of Iran, national branding of Iranian–Islamic identity, informing people about the policies, beliefs, and values of Iranians, and introducing opportunities and strengths. The strategic priorities of the digital diplomacy of the Islamic Republic of Iran include Interacting with citizens and foreign populations to foster and enhance mutual relations, providing transparent information and swift responses to counter misinformation, combating online hooliganism, presenting leadership guidelines, and engaging in social listening and social monitoring. Without a thorough analysis and practical solutions to this question, it is not possible to address the needs of audience satisfactorily. The assessment of attitudes, questions, and challenges is the most critical aspect which guides the subsequent actions. Concerning interaction, it is recommended to interact with influencers, as well as political, religious, cultural, and national figures, to clarify ambiguities and foster constructive dialogues through the dissemination of pre-prepared images, messages, and video clips. Moreover, regular evaluation of the outcomes on the basis of a theory of structures and processes can help ensure the effectiveness of digital diplomacy and coordination

Higher Glycemic Index and Load Could Increase Risk of Dyslipidemia

Background: To quantify carbohydrates, various indicators such as glycemic load (GL) and glycemic index (GI) were introduced. In order to address the effect of dietary carbohydrate content on lipid profile, we investigated the relationship between dietary GI and GL with lipid profile in adults living in Shiraz, Iran.Methods: In a cross-sectional study, 236 participants aged between 20 and 50 years were selected using cluster random sampling in Shiraz, Iran. For assessing the food intake, a 168-item food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) was utilized. Dietary GI and GL were calculated based on food items intake.Results: Higher GI was associated with increased odds ratio (OR) of lowdensity lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C, OR: 2.51; p-trend=0.008), nonhigh-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL, OR: 2.34; p-trend=0.01) and LDL to HDL ratio (OR: 2.13; p-trend=0.02) in crude model. In adjusted model, direct association was observed between GI and total cholesterol (TC, OR: 2.40; p-trend=0.01), LDL-C (OR: 2.50; p-trend=0.01) and non-HDL-C (OR: 2.48; p-trend=0.01). Association was noted between higher GL with TC (OR: 2.50; p-trend=0.01), LDL-C (OR: 2.22; p-trend=0.02), non-HDL-C (OR: 2.49; p-trend=0.005) and LDL-C to HDL-C ratio (OR: 2.29; p-trend=0.01) in crude model. After adjusting for potential cofounder, association remained for TC (OR: 3.97; p-trend=0.01), LDL-C (OR: 4.39; p-trend=0.005) and non-HDL-C (OR: 3.72; p-trend=0.008).Conclusion: Dietary GI and GL may have an association with higher odds of abnormal lipid profile. It seems that a diet with a low GI and GL (which full of whole grains, fruits, vegetables, nuts and legumes) can play an effective role in favorable lipid profile

Comparison of Different Models for Determining Time up to 50% Maximum Germination: A Case Study of Cottonseeds (Gossypium hirsutum)

DOR: 98.1000/2383-1251.1397.5. 1.10.2.1605.41 Extended abstract Introduction: Germination speed is one of the most important germination indices, used in most studies to compare the effects of different treatments on seed germination. Researchers use the reverse time up to 50% maximum germination (1/D50) to calculate the germination rate. One of the methods used for calculating the D50 is the utilization of nonlinear regression models such as Logestic, Gompertz, Richard, Weibull and Hill. In addition, for the purpose of calculating this parameter, simple empirical models such as the model presented by Farooq et al. and Ellis and Roberts are used. The question which arises is which of these methods has more precision predicting D50. The purpose of this study was to calculate D50, using different methods in seed germination of cotton. Material and Methods: In this experiment, cottonseeds were placed at three temperatures of 15, 25 and 40°C with three replications, and germinated seeds were counted daily several times. To calculate D50, several nonlinear regression models including Gompertze, Logestic, Hill (the four-parameter), Richard and Weibull models were used. Moreover, for the purpose of calculating D50, the models presented by Farooq et al. and Ellis and Roberts were used. Results: The results showed that all nonlinear regression models exhibited suitable fit to germination data. However, logestic, Hill and Weibull showed better predictability of D50, compared with other models. Besides, D50 calculated by the Farooq model was similar to that estimated by nonlinear regression models, whereas D50 estimated by the Ellis and Roberts model was higher than that estimated by other models. Conclusions: The results of this study showed that both non-linear regression models and the model developed by Farooq could be used to calculate D50 of cottonseed. In general, the results of this study showed that nonlinear regression models could be used to calculate D50. In this research, Logestic, Hill, and Weibull showed good fit for cumulative seed germination data of cotton seeds versus time at different temperatures. These models have coefficients that have a biological concept that includes maximum germination percentage, time to 50% maximum germination and time to start germination. Moreover, when researchers only seek to measure D50 and are not familiar with the statistical software, they can use the empirical formula presented in this research.   Highlights: Calculating D50 in cottonseeds, using different methods. Using nonlinear regression models to calculate D50 in cottonseeds. Developing a proper method which is more accurate, and better lends itself to calculating D50 of cottonseeds

all pages no. 3 2006.qxd

Abstract Association of genetic polymorphism in the calpastatin (CAST) gene with average daily gain was examined in Iranian purebred Kurdi sheep. The genotypes for CAST were determined by the PCR-SSCP method. Blood samples were collected from 84 purebred Kurdi sheep belonging to the Kurdi Breeding Station located in the Khorasan province, north-east of Iran. Extraction of genomic DNA was based on the Guanidinium Thiocyanate-Silica gel method. Three genotypes including aa, ab and ac with frequencies of 0.55, 0.32 and 0.13, were observed in this population. Chi-square test confirmed Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium for the CAST loci. Average heterozygosity (37%) of the CAST locus for Kurdi sheep was slightly low. Daily gain birth to weaning (GBW); weaning to six months (GWS); six to nine months (GSN) and nine to yearling (GNY) were analyzed by a statistical model comprising SSCP (Single strand conformation polymorphism) and significant effect (P<0.05) of CAST genotypes was observed for GBW only

Formulation and Characterization of Poly (Ethylene Glycol)-Coated Core-Shell Methionine Magnetic Nanoparticles as a Carrier for Naproxen Delivery: Growth Inhibition of Cancer Cells

An efficient and selective drug delivery vehicle for cancer cells can remarkably improve therapeutic approaches. In this study, we focused on the synthesis and characterization of magnetic Ni1−xCoxFe2O4 nanoparticles (NPs) coated with two layers of methionine and polyethylene glycol to increase the loading capacity and lower toxicity to serve as an efficient drug carrier. Ni1−xCoxFe2O4@Methionine@PEG NPs were synthesized by a reflux method then characterized by FTIR, XRD, FESEM, TEM, and VSM. Naproxen was used as a model drug and its loading and release in the vehicles were evaluated. The results for loading efficiency showed 1 mg of Ni1−xCoxFe2O4@Methionine@PEG NPs could load 0.51 mg of the naproxen. Interestingly, Ni1−xCoxFe2O4@Methionine@PEG showed a gradual release of the drug, achieving a time-release up to 5 days, and demonstrated that a pH 5 release of the drug was about 20% higher than Ni1−xCoxFe2O4@Methionine NPs, which could enhance the intracellular drug release following endocytosis. At pH 7.4, the release of the drug was slower than Ni1−xCoxFe2O4@Methionine NPs; demonstrating the potential to minimize the adverse effects of anticancer drugs on normal tissues. Moreover, naproxen loaded onto the Ni1−xCoxFe2O4@Methionine@PEG NPs for breast cancer cell lines MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 showed more significant cell death than the free drug, which was measured by an MTT assay. When comparing both cancer cells, we demonstrated that naproxen loaded onto the Ni1−xCoxFe2O4@Methionine@PEG NPs exhibited greater cell death effects on the MCF-7 cells compared with the MDA-MB-231 cells. The results of the hemolysis test also showed good hemocompatibility. The results indicated that the prepared magnetic nanocarrier could be suitable for controlled anticancer drug delivery

Formulation and Characterization of Poly (Ethylene Glycol)-Coated Core-Shell Methionine Magnetic Nanoparticles as a Carrier for Naproxen Delivery: Growth Inhibition of Cancer Cells

An efficient and selective drug delivery vehicle for cancer cells can remarkably improve therapeutic approaches. In this study, we focused on the synthesis and characterization of magnetic Ni1−xCoxFe2O4 nanoparticles (NPs) coated with two layers of methionine and polyethylene glycol to increase the loading capacity and lower toxicity to serve as an efficient drug carrier. Ni1−xCoxFe2O4@Methionine@PEG NPs were synthesized by a reflux method then characterized by FTIR, XRD, FESEM, TEM, and VSM. Naproxen was used as a model drug and its loading and release in the vehicles were evaluated. The results for loading efficiency showed 1 mg of Ni1−xCoxFe2O4@Methionine@PEG NPs could load 0.51 mg of the naproxen. Interestingly, Ni1−xCoxFe2O4@Methionine@PEG showed a gradual release of the drug, achieving a time-release up to 5 days, and demonstrated that a pH 5 release of the drug was about 20% higher than Ni1−xCoxFe2O4@Methionine NPs, which could enhance the intracellular drug release following endocytosis. At pH 7.4, the release of the drug was slower than Ni1−xCoxFe2O4@Methionine NPs; demonstrating the potential to minimize the adverse effects of anticancer drugs on normal tissues. Moreover, naproxen loaded onto the Ni1−xCoxFe2O4@Methionine@PEG NPs for breast cancer cell lines MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 showed more significant cell death than the free drug, which was measured by an MTT assay. When comparing both cancer cells, we demonstrated that naproxen loaded onto the Ni1−xCoxFe2O4@Methionine@PEG NPs exhibited greater cell death effects on the MCF-7 cells compared with the MDA-MB-231 cells. The results of the hemolysis test also showed good hemocompatibility. The results indicated that the prepared magnetic nanocarrier could be suitable for controlled anticancer drug delivery