[Dietary pattern and food consumption among Kermanshah Households, 2011]

Identification of dietary patterns and food groups' consumption can be beneficial in improving public health. This study aimed to evaluate the daily dietary pattern of households in Kermanshah, 2011. A total of 500 households in Kermanshah/Iran were selected through multi-stage clustersampling. Data were collected using demographic questionnaire and food frequency questionnaire [FFQ] and through face to face interview. Regression and X[2] tests were applied for statistical analysis. In whole, 477 households with mean family size of 4.3 +/- 1.5 person completed the study. Consumption of vegetables in 78%, fruits in 23.3%, meat in 34.7%, dairy products in 44% and grains in 25% of families were less than the recommended levels in food guide pyramid. Consumption of dairy products showed a significant positive correlation with socio-economic statues [P=0.009] and educational level of the father of family [p<0.01]. Furthermore, significant correlation was seen between fruits consumption and parents educational level [p=0.002]. In general, consumption of one or more food groups was less than the dietary guide line level in 40% of households, while it was acceptable in 44% and was more than the recommended level in 16% of households. In Spite of all efforts for modifying dietary pattern, there is still a big gap between guidelines and national dietary habits. Increasing public nutritional knowledge in regard to healthy eating is necessary and highly recommended

[Diagnostic values of fibrosis index in ultrasonography for differentiation of chronic viral hepatitis from liver cirrhosis]

Fibrosis index is a new index used for differentiation of cirrhosis from chronic hepatitis. If fibrosis index appears efficient in Doppler ultrasonography, it can be considered a good alternative for liver biopsy. Therefore, in this study we evaluated the diagnostic values of fibrosis index in ultrasonography for differentiation of chronic viral hepatitis from hepatic cirrhosis. This cross-sectional study included 104 patients, 19 patients with cirrhosis and 85 patients with chronic hepatitis. The diagnoses of cirrhosis and chronic hepatitis had been confirmed by biopsy. PSV, RI, EDV, PPFV and FI indices were calculated and compared between the two groups. Then, using ROC curve, we determined the cut-off-point for FI. The median of PSV and RI in the cirrhosis group was significantly higher than those in the chronic hepatitis group [p<0.05] but EDV median did not show any difference and PPFV was significantly lower in the cirrhosis group in comparison to the hepatitis group [p<0.001]. A fibrosis index of 3.365 or higher with a sensitivity of 94.7% and a specificity of 83.5% was the best cut-off-point for differentiating cirrhosis from chronic hepatitis. The area under curve was estimated at 0.948. Based on the results of this study, fibrosis index in the above- mentioned method could be a highly efficient index for differentiation of cirrhosis from chronic hepatitis and its sensitivity and specificity were higher than those of previously used indices.

Diagnostic value of T2-weighted gradient-echo for diagnosis of cerebral venous thrombosis

The role of MRI has been increased for diagnosis of cerebral venous thrombosis during recent years. In this study the efficacy of T2 Gradient echo for diagnosing cerebral thrombosis has been assessed. This study was a descriptive-analytical study, which was focused on diagnostic values. Diagnostic value T2 GRE sequence of MRI is being evaluated and compared with common sequences of T1, T2, and FLAIR. Then, via Golden Standard of MR Venography, different sequences of MRI have been compared. Gathered data had been entered in SPSS software and through using descriptive statistical methods and data frequency, different sequence sensitivities were computed. Twenty one patients, including three males [14.3%] and 18 females [85.7%] with the average age of 36.00 +/- 10.13 participated in this study, and they have had a total number of 55 numbers of thrombosis. The most common clinical symptom, predisposing factor, involved sinus, and common underlying disorder was headache [95.2%], taking OCP [52.4%], superior sagittal sinus [71.4%], and infraction [47.6%] respectively. The sensitivity rates of T1, T2, and T2GRE sequence for diagnosis of acute thrombosis were 30%, 0, and 90% respectively, and for Early Sub-Acute cases they were 92.9%, 92.9%, and 100% respectively. T2 GRE sequence can be used as a quick diagnostic tool for diagnosing CVT before applying MR venography in patients. Using this sequence can be very effective, especially when it is critical to diagnose the disease quickly

[Bilateral nocardia keratitis following photorefractive keratectomy]

To report the clinical, confocal scan, and histopathologic features of bilateral Nocardia keratitis following photorefractive keratectomy [PRK]. A 23-year-old girl underwent simultaneous bilateral PRK for myopia. On the third postoperative day, dense central infiltrates mainly involving the anterior stroma were noticed in both eyes. Clinical and confocal scan features were consistent with a diagnosis of Nocardia keratitis and topical amikacin eye drops 2% were started. Empirical antibiotic therapy was converted into specific therapy after confirming the definite diagnosis by clinical features and confocal scan. Due to poor response to medical therapy, lamellar keratectomy was performed in both eyes which shortened the treatment course. Histopathologic examination confirmed the initial diagnosis. Familiarity with the clinical and confocal scan features of Nocardia keratitis facilitates early diagnosis, proper management and hence a rapid clinical response

Evaluation of 56 cases of long-segment anastomosis of LITA to LAD in Rajaei heart center

Long-segment reconstruction of the diffusely diseased left anterior descending artery [LAD] with left internal thoracic artery [LITA] is one of the methods offered in order to deal with complicated, multiple, and long-segment lesions in the LAD. In this prospective study, we analyzed the results obtained with this technique. Between Feb. 2007 and Feb. 2009, 56 patients underwent surgery via this technique. The LITA was used as a patch along the opened narrow segment of the LAD from 2 to 8 cm. Data on all the patients were collected, and all the patients were worked up for postoperative complications such as postoperative myocardial infarction, ECG changes, NIHA class, enzymatic changes, and postoperative bleeding. CT-Angiography was performed between 6 to 1 8 months after surgery in some cases. Fifty-six cases, comprising 42 [75%] men and 14 [25%] women between 43 and 78 years of age [mean age= 59.8 +/- 9.3 years] with multiple and long-segment lesions in the LAD were included in this study. Preoperative risk factors were hypertension [66.1%], diabetes [57.1%], hyperlipidemia [50%], cigarette smoking [50%], renal failure [1.8%], and positive family history [7.1%]. Twenty-three [41.1%] patients had remote and 9 [16.1%] had recent myocardial infarction. Significant left main lesions were found in 7 [12.5%] patients, peripheral vascular disease in 3 [5.3%], and preoperative arrhythmias in 2 [3.6%]. The mean number of grafts was 2.85 +/- 1.5. Postoperative complications were arrhythmias in 10 [1 7.8%] patients, postoperative myocardial infarction in 1 [1.8%], surgical bleeding in 7 [12.5%], infections in 3 [5.3%], plural effusion in 3 [5.3%], tamponade in 2 [3.6%], and pericardial effusion in 1 [1.8%]; there was no mortality amongst the patients. CT-angiography, performed in 6 patients between the six and eighteenth postoperative months, revealed patent anastomoses in all the patients. Long segment and multiple lesions in the LAD pose a challenge for cardiac surgeons. The results of long-segment LAD reconstruction using the LITA are very encouraging

Evaluation of 56 cases of long-segment anastomosis of LITA to LAD in Rajaei Heart Center

Long-segment reconstruction of the diffusely diseased left anterior descending artery [LAD] with left internal thoracic artery [LITA] is one of the methods offered in order to deal with complicated, multiple, and long-segment lesions in the LAD. In this prospective study. we analyzed the results obtained with this technique. Between Feb. 2007 and Feb. 2009, 56 patients underwent surgery via this technique. The LITA was used as a patch along the opened narrow segment of the LAD from 2 to 8cm. Data on all the patients were collected, and all the patients were worked up for postoperative complications such as postoperative myocardial infarction, ECG changes, NIHA class, enzymatic changes, and postoperative bleeding. CT-Angiography was performed between 6 to 18 months after surgery in some cases. Fifty-six eases, comprising 42 [75%] men and 14 [25%] women between 43 and 78 years of age [mean age 59.8 +/- 9.3 years] with multiple and long-segment lesions in the LAD were included in this study. Preoperative risk factors were hypertension [66.1%], diabetes [57.1%], hyperlipidemia [50%], cigarette smoking [50%], renal failure [1.8%], and positive family history [7.1%]. Twenty-three [41.1%] patients had remote and 9 [16.1%] had recent myoeardial infarction. Significant left main lesions were found in 7 [12.5%] patients, peripheral vascular disease in 3 [5.3%], and preoperative arrhythmias in 2 [3.6%]. The mean number of grafts was 2.85 +/- 1.5. Postoperative complications were arrhythmias in 10 [17.8%] patients, postoperative myocardial infarction in 1 [1.8%], surgical bleeding in 7 [12.5%], infections in 3 [5.3%], plural effusion in 3 [5.3%], tamponade in 2 [3.6%], and pericardial effusion in 1[1.8%]; there was no mortality amongst the patients. CT-angiography, performed in 6 patients between the six and eighteenth postoperative months, revealed patent anastomoses in all the patients. Long segment and multiple lesions in the LAD pose a challenge for cardiac surgeons. The results of long-segment LAD reconstruction using the LITA are very encouraging

[Evaluation of patients' satisfaction of departments in Islamic Azad University Dental branch, in 2009]

Patient satisfaction is one of the most important factors to improve the quality of educational centers thus increasing patient referral and promote practical training of the students. To now in this faculty no such study has been done, so this research aimed to evaluate patients' satisfaction from dental care given in different departments of Tehran faculty of dentistry, Islamic Azad University year1387. In this cross sectional study 1500 subjects who referred consequently were selected from clinics with the same proportional ratio of patient referral to every clinic. After explanation of project to every subject through interview, satisfaction was estimated by 13 questions about distant way, waiting time, treatment duration with a range of 3 options of completely satisfied, relatively satisfied, dissatisfied and ranking of 0, 1, 2. Total rank less than 1/3 was known as dissatisfied, between 1/3-2/3 as relatively satisfied, and higher than 2/3 as satisfied. The role of related factors was subjected to chi-square statistics. 71% of all subjects spoke out satisfaction, 27.5% were relatively satisfied, and 1.5% dissatisfied. The prevalence of dissatisfaction in the population was estimated from 26.7% to 31.3%. The most dissatisfaction was related to removable denture patients:64.7% and the least was in oral surgery clinic :13.5% [p<0.05]. The most dissatisfaction factor was long distance and waiting room ambiance but the least dissatisfaction was about student behavior, hygiene and professors behavior. The satisfaction level of patients in Tehran dental faculty of Islamic Azad University was acceptable but according to presence of dissatisfaction in patients and its consequences, appropriate improvements are recommended

outcome of six-month clinical trial with Eucatax paclitaxel eluting stent compared with Eucastsflex bare metal stent in patients undergoing de novo coronary stenting

Superiority of paclitaxel-eluting stents over bare metal stents in angiographic and clinical outcomes have been shown in many trials. Eucatax stents is a newly developed paclitaxel eluting stent using biodegradable polymer matrix. To our knowledge there have been no studies directly comparing Eucatax paclitaxel eluting stents with EucaSTSflex bare metal stents. The aim of this study is to evaluate short-term benefits of Eucatax in comparison with EucaSTSflex in patients undergoing denovo coronary stenting. A retrospective comparison of Eucatax versus EucaSTSflex was conducted among 89 consecutive patients [44 Eucatax, 45 EucaSTSflex] in Kowsar heart institute, with at least one successfully deployed stent in de novo lesions over a 6-month period. Outcomes included death ,nonfatal MI, CABG, late stent thrombosis at six month, as well as functional evidence of ischemia evaluated by exercise treadmill test[ETT] or cardiac scan [SPECT]. From April to July 2008, a total of 89 patients [44 Eucatax, 45 EucaSTSflex] were evaluated after PCI for de novo coronary lesions. After six month follow up no difference was observed in term of death ,MI,CABG and late stent thrombosis between Eucatax compared with EucaSTSflex. Also a non-statistically significant lower rate of positive ETT [or SPECT] was found in Eucatax group after six month. Paclitaxel eluting stents[Eucatax]are not superior to bare metal stents [EucaSTSflex] in regard to short-term clinical outcome

[Diagnostic value of PD- fat suppression and T2 gradient echo MRI sequences in diagnosis of cruciate ligament and meniscal lesions]

Knee MRI has drawn attention due to its non-invasiveness and its high accuracy. Few reports about the accuracy of PDFS sequences for diagnosis of injured menisci and cruciate ligaments have been published. This study was performed to compare the diagnostic value of proton density with fat suppression [PDFS] and T2 gradient echo [T2 GRE] MRI sequences in injured menisci and cruciate ligaments of knee. This was a descriptive and analytical study. The sample size included 100 cases. In this study the diagnostic value of MRI with PDFS sequence and common methods [T2 GRE] evaluated and compared with each other. Considering the arthroscopy results as a gold standard, the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value [PPV], negative predictive value [NPV] and accuracy of the different sequences were calculated. This study included 100 patients; 79 males [79%] and 21 females [21] with a mean age of 27.8 +/- 9.04 years. Sensitivity, specificity, PPV,NPV and accuracy of sequences for detection of medial meniscal tear were 96.05%, 95.83%, 98.64%, 88.46% and 96% respectively, and for lateral meniscal tear was 90%, 100%, 100%, 100% and 97%. All the above mentioned parameters in ACL tears were 100%. PDFS sequence can be used in the evaluation of knee injuries as a reliable part of the knee imaging protocol and can be a good alternative for the nonfat-suppressive sequences in these patients

[Incidence rate of cerebral venous thrombosis and its related factors in Kermanshah city in 2009-2010]

Cerebral venous thrombosis [CVT] is a rare disorder. Incidence of CVT in developing countries is not clear. This study was conducted to determine the incidence rate of cerebral venous thrombosis, its symptoms and some of its predisposing factors in Kermanshah city. This was a descriptive study. The sample size included 21 cases. Diagnosis of cases of CVT was based on MRI sequences T1, T2, FLAIR and approved by the gold standard MR venography over 12 months. The data were introduced into SPSS software and analyzed by means of descriptive statistics and the frequency of data was calculated. This study included 21 patients; three males [14.3%] and 18 females [85.7%] with a mean age of 36.00 +/- 10.13 years who had a total number of 55 thromboses. The most prevalent clinical symptoms, predisposing factor, associated disorder, and sinus involved, included headache [95.2%], OCP consumption [52.4%], infarction [47.6%] and superior sagital sinus [71.4%] respectively. This study showed that the incidence of cerebral venous thrombosis in Kermanshah is relatively higher in comparison to the statistics mentioned in other studies, so further studies for more evaluation of contributing factors in this disease are recommended

[Birth injuries and related risk factors in neonates born in Emam Sajad hospital in Yasuj in 2005 to 2006]

The first days of life has the highest risk in everyone's life and the mortality rate in these days is equal to the mortality rate of the whole life. One of the causes of mortality in these days is birth injuries. Determining the type and incidence of birth injuries and their risk factors can be useful in reducing the mortality rate in neonates. In this descriptive analytical study, 2005 neonates who were born in Imam Sajad Hospital in Yasouj/ Iran, between the years 2005 to 2006 were studied. The rate of birth injuries and their risk factors were evaluated. Collected data were analyzed by SPSS software using chi-square test. Out of 2005 neonates, 70.4% born by NVD and 29.6% by cesarian section. The study showed that 10.8% of NVD and 3.7% of cesarian section neonates had birth injuries. Two hundered and four of these injuries which occurred in 175 of neonates were incude: capute succedaneum [36.75], sub conjectival hemorrhage [27.9%], cephal hematoma [10.2%], facial erythema and abrasion [8.8%], facial echymosis [6.3%], hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy [3.4%], brachial plexus palsy [3.4%], clavicular fractures [1.4%], facial nerve palsy [0.4%] and other skin lesions [0.9%]. Risk factors were included NVD [difficult vaginal delivery], high gestation age, and low Apgar score at first minute of life, shoulder dystocia, vaccum and birth at night. The present study revealed that the incidence of birth injuries in this area is high. Considering the serious complications of birth injuries and hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy with no treatment for some cases, it seems that using the preventing methods to reduce the prevalence of birth injuries is necessary

[Orbital echinococcosis with two different features; hydatid and alveolar cysts]

To present two patients with hydatid and alveolar cysts of the orbit and to present their clinical, imaging, pathologic and therapeutic features. Two young children from rural areas were referred for progressive proptosis. Imaging showed intraorbital cysts. They were operated on with a clinical suspicion of hydatid and alveolar cysts. Pathologic evaluation confirmed the diagnoses in both instances. Clinical findings and imaging before the operation help the diagnosis of orbital echinococcosis. Knowing the nature of these lesions can prevent surgical complications. Alveolar cysts are much more invasive than hydatid cysts and their treatment is more difficult

[Histopathology of recipient corneal buttons after penetrating keratoplasty]

To report the histopathological diagnoses of recipient corneal buttons in patients undergoing penetrating keratoplasty. In this observational case series, all recipient corneal specimens sent to the ophthalmic pathology laboratory of the Eye Bank of Iran between 2004 and 2007 underwent histopathologic examination. Overall, 315 corneal specimens were evaluated. Histopathologic diagnoses included keratoconus [27.0%], corneal dystrophies [23.5%], acquired corneal endothelial decompensation [13.3%], nonspecific corneal scars and degenerations [11.4%], keratitis [10.8%], mustard gas keratopathy [8.0%], combined dystrophy and keratoconus [1.6%], post-keratorefractive keratectasia [1.6%], chemical burn-induced keratopathy [1.3%] and other causes [1.6%]. In keratoconic corneas, breaks in Bowmans' layer were evident in all cases and hydrops was diagnosed in 17.6%. The most common corneal dystrophy was macular corneal dystrophy [35.0%] followed by Fuchs' endothelial dystrophy [26.25%]. In cases with keratitis, causative microorganisms were found in 35.2%. Histopathologic findings in mustard gas keratopathy included loss of keratocytes, thickening of epithelial basement membrane, foci of acute and chronic inflammation and secondary degenerative changes; the former two were the most common features. To our knowledge, this is the first report on histopathologic evaluation of recipient corneas in Iran. Keratoconus, corneal dystrophies, acquired endothelial decompensation, nonspecific corneal scars and degenerations, keratitis and mustard gas keratopathy were predominant histopathologic diagnoses. Loss of keratocytes and thickening of epithelial basement membrane were the most common histopathologic findings in mustard gas keratopathy. Breaks in Bowmans' layer were found in all keratoconic corneal buttons

[ Confocal Scan Features of Keratic Precipitates in Fuchs' Heterochromic Iridocyclitis]

To report confocal scan features of keratic precipitates [KPs] in Fuchs' heterochromic iridocyclitis [FHIC]. In this descriptive study, corneal confocal scan was performed to characterize KPs in patients with FHIC referred to Labbafinejad Medical Center from November 2005 to March 2007. Polymerase chain reaction [PCR] for Herpes Simplex virus, Herpes Zoster virus, Toxoplasma gondii, Cytomegalovirus and Rubella virus was performed on aqueous humor samples taken in 4 patients who underwent phacoemulsification. Confocal scan was performed in 40 eyes of 34 patients including 18 male and 16 female subjects with mean age of 30.7 +/- 10.5 [range 18-57] years. FHIC was bilateral in 6 and unilateral in 28 patients. The distribution of KPs was diffuse in 31 eyes and limited to the inferior cornea in 9 eyes. The morphology of KPs included: globular, 34 eyes [85%]; infiltrating, 31 eyes [77.5%]; dendritiform, 31 eyes [77.5%]; stippled, 27 eyes [67.5%]; and cruciform, 25 eyes [62.5%]. None of the cases demonstrated smooth-rounded KPs. PCR of aqueous specimens was negative for the above-mentioned infectious agents in 4 eyes who had infiltrating and dendritiform KPs on confocal scan. Confocal features of KPs in FHIC are diverse and include globular, infiltrating and dendritiform, stippled and cruciform. Presence of infiltrating and dendritfrom KPs in FHIC may be suggestive of a possible infectious etiology, however the results of PCR were negative in the limited numbers of such patients in our series

[Stem cell deficiency in patients with chronic and delayed-onset mustard gas keratopathy]

To evaluate stem cell deficiency using impression cytology [IC] in patients with chronic and delayed-onset mustard gas keratopathy [MGK]. A consecutive series of patients with MGK underwent IC Thirty-five eyes of 18 patients [all male] with mustard gas keratopathy were included in this observational case series. Presence of goblet cells on the corneal side of specimens was considered to indicate stem cell deficiency. Corneal involvement was graded as mild, moderate and severe. Relation between IC findings and clinical grading was evaluated. There was limbal stem cell deficiency in at least one quadrant of the cornea in all 35 eyes [100% of cases]. No differences was found between impression cytology findings [positive versus negative for corneal goblet cells] among different quadrants [p= 0.378]. Clinical grading was the same between nasal and temporal quadrants [P=0.266] and between superior and inferior quadrants [P= 0.263]. Combining the superior and inferior quadrants [vertical zone] and also the nasal and temporal quadrants [horizontal zone] together, clinical grading was more severe in horizontal versus vertical zones [p< 0.001]. There was no correlation between stem cell deficiency and clinical corneal severity [p=0.893]. Varying degrees of stem cell deficiency was demonstrated in all patients with chronic or delayed-onset MGK using IC Clinical corneal manifestations are more severe in nasal and temporal quadrants. We found no correlation between stem cell deficiency and clinical manifestations. Other factors such as perilimbal conjunctival ischemia might play a role

[Evaluation of the safe dose of intravitreal bevacizumab in rabbit eyes]

To evaluate the safety of different doses of intravitreal bevacizumab in rabbit eyes. Twelve eyes of 6 rabbits underwent intravitreal injection of 5, 7.5 and 10 mg of bevacizumab. In each rabbit, one eye was considered for bevacizumab injection and the fellow eye served for either placebo injection or observation. All eyes were examined before and I, 2, 3, 7, 14 and 28 days after intravitreal injections. Electroretinography [ERG] was performed before and 14 days after the injections. 28 days after the injections, all eyes were enucleated and examined with light and electron microscopy. In the clinical examination, significant vitritis was observed in one of the 10 mg injected eyes from first post-injection which was eliminated by the 7th day. Cataract was seen in the same eye. Post-injection ERGs showed no significant changes. Increase in Muller-like cells was observed in the histological examination in the injected eyes. Intravitreal injection of 5 and 7.5 mg doses of bevacizumab was safe in rabbit eyes; however, the 10 mg dose was associated with intraocular inflammation

[Determination of Helicobacter pylori immunogenes using two- dimensional gel electrophoresis and immunoblotting]

Helicobacter pylori is one of the most common infectious agents that colonizes in the mucus layer of stomach. This bacterium has been identified to be the etiologic agent of chronic active gastritis, peptic ulceration and gastric cancer. The present study was aimed to identify H. pylori immunogenes for clinical diagnisis of the infection in the above 3 groups of patients. H. pylori bacteria isolated from biopsy specimens of patients suffering from gastritis, peptic ulcer and gastric cancer were extracted in an extraction solution containing lysozyme, urea and CHAPS. Two-dimensional gel electrophoresis were performed. The resolved proteins were transferred to PVDF membrane using tank blotting and their reaction with purified IgG fraction of the patients. Sera were determined by immunoblotting. The bacterial extract showed several hundreds of silver-stained spots with molecular weights [MW] ranging from 10 to 100 KDa and isoelectric points [pI] ranging from 3.5 to 9.5. This pattern contained 6-7 major proteins, some of which as protein groups consisted of several spots. The results of immunoblots revealed that several protein spots with different MW and pI, were stained with all three groups of patients. sera but some proteins were stained only with one or two groups of sera. The protein spot with MW of 30 KDa reacted with sera of only two groups of patients; gastritis and gastric cancer; the protein with MW of 18 KDa reacted only with sera of gastritis patients. These proteins can be potential candidates for recognition of the type of gastric disorder. In addition, the results indicated that protein profiles of H. pylori, isolated from gastric cancer and peptic ulcer, are more similar to each other, comparing to that of gastritis patients

[Randomized control trial on the effect of pethidine versus tramadol on labour pain relief, labour duration, infants' apgar score and maternal complications in primiparous women]

One of the basic principles of modern obstetrics is to provide adequate analgesia. An analgesic should have potent analgesic efficacy and minimal side effects to be suitable for pain relief during labour. The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the analgesic efficacy and adverse effects of tramadol and pethidine on labour pain, labour duration, apgar score of the infants and maternal complications in primiparous women. This was a triple-blind randomized control trial. 30 full term parturient women were randomly assigned to one of tramadol or pethidine groups. Inclusion criteria were full term primiparous women without high risk pregnancy in active phase of labour, with 4 cm dilatation of cervix. Lack of induction of delivery, lack of pregnancy complications and drug reactions were regarded as other inclusion criteria. In active phase of delivary vital signs of the parturient women recorded. The pain was measured by means of NRS score. Group I received 50 mg pethedine; group II, 50 mg tramadol in 200 cc Ringer solution, intravenously. The vital signs and pain were reassessed after one hour. The mothers and their fetuses were under control for potential complications. Collected data were introduced into SPSS soft ware and analyzed by means of t-test and X[2]. p<0.05 was regarded statistically significant. There was no significant difference in relation to age, maternal weight, maternal educational status, gestational age and infant's weight between the two groups. There was no significant difference between the decrease in the mean systolic and diastolic blood pressures in the two groups. Maternal Side effects such as nausea, vomiting and drowsiness occurred more frequently in pethidine group [p 0.05]. The mean values of pain reduction assessed by VAS score were 1.28 +/- 1.63 for pethidine group and 1.00 +/- 1.30 for tramadol group] p < 0.05]. We conclude that pethidine has more analgesic effect than tramadol on labour pain but frequency of side effects such as nausea and vomiting was higher with pethidine administration. Both drugs can cause shortening of active phase of labour. Apgar score was not influenced by any of the two drugs

[Etiological profile of short stature in a referral endocrinology clinic]

Physiological growth is a sensitive long-term indicator of child health. Impaired growth of children may be the first manifestation of a serious chronic disease. Short stature is a common pediatric endocrine problem. The short stature, although not a disease per se, is a manifestation of several diseases. Its early diagnosis and treatment is most of the time rewarding. Children between the age group of 2 to 15 years with growth retardation attending endocrine clinic in Loghman Hospital, Tehran, in October 2003 through October 2005were evaluated for short stature. Evaluation included: detailed medical history, physical examination and laboratory tests such as blood count, thyroid function, growth hormone screening, bone age estimation, and karyotypes. Centers for Disease Control [CDC] growth charts was used for percentiles. 188 children [110 boys, 78 girls] with growth retardation, whose heights were below 2 standard deviation score for age and gender, attended endocrine clinic. Normal variations accounted for 85.5% of all etiologies for reasons such as constitutional delay 49% and familial short stature 26.5% and a combination of both 9%. The rest [14.5%] consisted of pathological short stature. Growth hormone deficiency and hypothyroidism were the most common causes of pathological short stature. The most common cause of short stature was a normal variance followed by short stature caused by endocrine disturbances. In both sexes constitutional growth delay followed by familial short stature counted to the most common non-endocrine causes of short stature

Donor eye contamination before and after decontamination process in the eye bank of the I.R. of Iran

To evaluate bacterial and fungal contamination of donor corneas before and after decontamination at Eye Bank of 1.R. of Iran based on cultures. This descriptive study was performed on 131 donor eyes [whole globe or cut cornea] used for corneal transplantation at Labbafinejad hospital during a 6-month period. Microbiologic culture was performed at three stages: before enucleation at the forensic medicine unit, after decontamination process at the eye bank and before transplantation in the at operation room. Prevalence of contamination with 95% confidence interval [95% CI] at each stage of the study was calculated. Donor tissue included 60 [45.8%] whole globes and 71 [54.2%] preserved cut corneas. Cultures were positive in 92.2% [CI 95%; 89.8-98%] of specimens before enucleation, 7.6% [CI 95%, 2.1-12.1] after decontamination, and only in 3.1% [CI 95%: 0.1- 6%] before transplantation. There was no case of postkeratoplasty endophthalmitis. Staphylococcus epidermidis was the most frequent organism found before enucleation [32.1%] and after decontamination [3.05%]. There was no correlation between frequency of contamination and cause of death, preservation time, and death to enucleation time. Fungal contamination was found only in one specimen. The decontamination process of the eye bank of the I.R. of Iran seems to be effective. Endophthalmitis following penetrating keratoplasty is rare under standard operating room and eye bank methods. Staphylococcus epidermidis is the most frequent organism, cultured from eye bank specimens