[ role of perceived social support and resilience in predicting the quality of life in patients with type 2 diabetes]

Introduction: The purpose of present study was to evaluate the role of perceived social support and resilience in predicting quality of life in patients with type 2 diabetes in Lamerd, Iran

Materials and Methods: The population of this study included all patients with type 2 diabetes who had documented information in the SedigheTahere Health Services Center of Lamerd. From among these patients, 234 were selected by the simple random sampling method. Data collection tools used in this study were the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support [MSPSS], the Resilience Scale [RS] and the World Health Organization Quality of Life [WHOQOL-BREF]. This study was conducted based on the descriptive correlation method. Pearson correlation and regression analysis were used to analyze data

Results: Results of Regression analysis suggested that resilience, the support of friends and individual support predicted 46 percent of the variance in quality of life, demonstrating there was a positive and significant relationship between dimension perceived social support and resilience with quality of life

Conclusion: Considering the fact that support of friends and individual support and resilience are meaningful predictors of quality of life, promotion and enhancement of such factors can positively influence the quality of life in patients with type 2 diabetes

[Allelic segregation of major histocompatibility complex using LEI0258 microsatellite marker in indigenous and commercial chickens]

Background: Major histocompatibility complex [MHC] in chicken has profound influence on resistance/susceptibility to disease, and production and reproduction traits. Microsatellite marker LEI0258 is a genetic indicator for MHC haplotypes. Recognizing diversity of MHC haplotypes in selectively bred populations will be helpful for selecting population resistant to disease and development of effective vaccines

Objectives: The purpose of the present study was to evaluate polymorphism at MHC in two populations of Khorasan indigenous chickens and commercial Leghorn breed using microsatellite marker LEI0258 and to investigate its segregation and heredity

Methods: A total of 335 blood samples from Khorasan Razavi indigenous chickens and commercial Leghorn population including parents [P] and offspring [F1], were analyzed. The MHC genotypes were determined using LEI0258 microsatellite. The study of allele heredity from P to F1 and Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium were conducted using Chi-square and Likelihood Ratio tests

Results: In Khorasan indigenous chickens 20 different alleles were identified for LEI0258 microsatellite. The allele 321 bp had the highest [22.88%] and the allele 182 bp had the lowest [0.16%] frequency. In the commercial population [Leghorn breed] 3 alleles were found for this marker of which the allele 261 bp had the highest [50%] and alleles 487 bp had the lowest [6%] frequency. In allele heredity analysis and Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium of Khorasan population, no significant differences were observed between P and F1 progenies

Conclusions: These results indicate a higher genetic variation in indigenous chickens compared to commercial breed. There was no preference for a particular allele in indigenous chickens. The higher frequency of some alleles in F1 population is due to the high frequency of the same alleles in parent population which their gametes make the population gene pool

[Karyotyping and chromosomal Ag-NOR banding of siamese fighting fish [Betta splendens]]

Siamese fighting fish [Betta splendens, Regan, 1909] is a freshwater fish native to southeast Asia that has attracted considerable attention in Iran as an ornamental fish. The purpose of this research was karyotyping of this fish by in vivo method as well as its Ag-NOR chromosomal banding. Chromosomal spreads were obtained from hematopoietic [head kidney and spleen], gill and testicular tissues by splash and squash [stamping] methods on cold slides, which were then stained by 25% Giemsa. In addition, sequential staining nucleolus organizer regions [NORs] were performed by Ag-NO3 staining. Chromosome number in diploid and haploid cells in this species were counted 2n=42 and n=21, respectively. Fundamental number was NF=68.4 pairs of NORs which were found in methaphase plates. Chromosomal formula consisted of 1 pair of metacentric, 3 pairs of submetacentric, 9 pairs of subtelocentric [acrocentric] and 8 pairs of telocentric chromosomes. The chromosomal formula was similar in both sexes, however, comparing male and female karyotypes, the chromosome pair number 17 was heteromorphic. In this study, the number of chromosomes [2n] was similar but chromosomal formula and arm number [FN] were different from those in the previous studies. Metacentric chromosomes [pair 1] and presence of a pair of heteromorphic chromosomes in the two sexes [pair 17] are reported in this species for the first time. In the case that chromosomes pair 17 are sex chromosomes, a WZ sex determination system can be suggested for this species where females are heterogametic [WZ] and males are homogametic [ZZ] sexes

[Chromosomal study on Zagros Pupfish [Aphanius vladykovi]]

Zagros Pupfish [Aphanius vladykovi] is a native fish of Iran which is found in basins of Chahar Mahal and Bakhtiari province. In this study, the chromosome number and karyotype of Zagros Pupfish were investigated. To obtain metaphase chromosome spreads in vivo, 1.2-5.4g fish were injected intraperitoneally by 0.1-0.15 mg/g of 1% colchicine and were humanely killed after being incubated in a well-aerated tank for 4-5 hours at 22-23°C. Hematopoietic, testis or ovary, gill, spleen and liver tissues were isolated from the fish and were fixed with cold Carnoy's solution after being hypotonized in 0.075M KCl. Chromosome spreads were prepared by either splashing of cell suspension or stamping of whole tissues onto slides. Slides were then stained by 10% Giemsa followed by microscopic observation. Suitable metaphase plates were digitally microphotographed and chromosomes were counted and karyotyped. Diploid chromosome number ranged from 42 to 49 with the modal number [2n] of 48. Based on the prepared karyotype, chromosome formula for this species was 12st+36a/t and the number of chromosome arms [FN] was calculated 60. No heteromorphic sex chromosomes could be recognized in this species. The diploid chromosome number of Zagros Pupfish is similar to other species of the same genus so far investigated

[Effect of recycling process on metal ion release from orthodontic brackets at different periods]

Considering the application of recycled metallic brackets in orthodontic treatments and probably more resultant metal ion release, which can cause cytotoxic side effects, this study was set up to assess the effect of recycling process of orthodontic brackets on metal ion release. In this experimental study, 80 Discovery direct bond brackets [Dentarum, Germany] were divided into 2 groups, new and recycled brackets [n = 40], then each group was divided into two subgroups [one-week and 6-months subgroups] [n=20]. The specimens were maintained in buffered solution of NaNHNo[3] [pH=7] at 37°C in an incubator. After periods of one week and 6 months immersion, 0.5 mL of each solution was analyzed by spectrophotometry for the quantity of released Nickel [Ni], Chromium [Cr], and Cobalt [Co] ions. The data were analyzed using two way ANOVA analysis. After one week, the quantity of Ni, Cr, and Co ions released from new brackets were 0.65, 1.4, and 0.75 [ppb], respectively. The values for recycled brackets were 142, 2.61, and, 1.43 [ppb]. These findings indicated significant difference between two groups [P<0.001]. After six months, the quantity of Ni, Cr, and Co ions released from new brackets were 1200, 3.4, and 2.4 [ppb] and from recycled brackets were 2330, 6.9, and 10.8 [ppb], which showed significant difference between two groups [P<0.001]. Application of recycled brackets in long fixed orthodontic treatments can lead to metal ion release, specifically Nickel. Thus, the use of recycled brackets in long orthodontic treatments is not recommended

[Karyological study on persian gulf banana shrimp, Penaeus [Fenneropenaeus] merguiensis]

Because of limits in applicable karyological techniques and also the presence of a large number of small chromosomes in Penaidae family, the study on the number, structure, and the formula of the chromosomes in these shrimps in difficult. The present cytogenetic study was conducted on Penaeus [Fenneropenaeus] merguiensis native to Persian Gulf and Oman Sea by preparing spreads from various early stages of this species including embryos, nauplii, protozoa, myses, postlarvae as well as adult tissues such as gill, hepatopancreas, testis and ovary. For this purpose, two methods of splashing of cell suspension and squashing of tissues on warm and cold slides were used. Different doses of colchicines and incubation periods on obtaining and the quality of chromosomes were examined as well. It was only possible to obtain acceptable quality metaphase chromosomes using adult testis. The testicular tissue contained both mitotic and meiotic cells, so diploid and haploid chromosome numbers could be counted, respectively. The modal diploid number of this species was found to be 2n=88 which was confirmed by the modal haploid chromosome number of n=44 in the adult testes. Tentative karyotype of Penaeus [Fenneropenaeus] merguiensis contained 21 pairs of meta- and submetacentric chromosomes and 23 pairs of acro- and telocentric chromosomes. The chromosome arm number was calculated NF=130

[Optimization of the production of rhamnolipids by Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains]

Biosurfactants are a heterogenous group of surface active molecules produced on microbial cell surfaces or excreted extracellulary. They are powerful natural emulsifiers, solubilizing and wetting agents. Rhamnolipids belong to the glycolipid class of biosurfactants and were first isolated from Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Rhamnolipids are an attractive alternative to synthetic surfactants because of low toxicity, better environmental compatibility, and high selectivity. The aim of this work was to optimize biosurfactants production by Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 9027 and two hyper producing mutant strains [M6 and M34] using different culture conditions. The rhamnolipid-producing medium [Lindhardt] containing different carbon sources were inoculated with 5% [v/v] of a 24-h preculture. The cultures were then incubated on a rotary shaker at different temperatures and rates, with different durations. The rhamnolipids were precipitated by acidification of the culture below pH 2.0 and the precipitate was extracted by organic solvents. The results showed that the carbon source used in a culture medium, bacterial strain, and temperature are the most important factors in the production of biosurfactants. The maximum rhamnolipid concentration, 2.21g/l, was reached when the M34 strain was incubated at 30 degree C and 150 rpm for 7 days using Canola oil as the carbon source. The mutant strain M34 can be used to produce large amounts of rhamnolipid for food, chemical, pharmaceutical and hygienic applications

[Effect of Gundelia tournefortii L. on some cardiovascular risk factors in animal model]

There is no certain result in the field of industrial pharmacy approaching to find effective drugs in prevention and treatment of atherosclerosis, like the control of lipid factors that are a major risk factors of atherosclerosis. Also the tendency of people to use herbal medicine is increasing. In this study effect of Gundelia tourenfortii L. on some cardiovascular risk factors in animal model assigned by analysis of biochemical factors. Twenty male rabbits were randomly divided in to 4 groups as: Normal diet, Normal diet supplemented with Gundelia tourenfortii L., high cholesterol diet, and high cholesterol diet supplemented with Gundelia tourenfortii L. Fasting Blood samples were taken at the first and end of the study. Gundelia tourenfortii L. decrease the cholesterol, triglyceride, LDL - cholesterol, VLDL-Cholesterol, apolipoprotein B, oxidized LDL and factor VII. Also increase the level of HDL-Cholesterol and apolipoprotein A comparing to high cholesterol diet. Gundelia tourenfortii L. by decreasing lipid, lipoproteins and some cardiovascular new risk factors like apolipoprotein B, Oxidized-LDL and coagulation factor decrease atherosclerosis

Dentoskeletal growth changes in untreated 7-12 year old individuals with CI II malocclusion

Since making a proper orthodontic treatment plan is highly based on a thorough understanding of growth changes in dentofacial complex and due to relatively high prevalence of Class II malocclusion cases, this study was conducted to evaluate dentoskeletal growth changes in 7-12 year old class II subjects. In this longitudinal study, 8 schools were randomly selected in Tehran. After examination of 1886 students, 73 subjects were selected according to special criteria, all demonstrating a Cl II molar and canine relationship. Lateral cephalogram radiographs were obtained from these individuals under NHP position in dental school of Islamic Azad University. After a period of 2 years 43 of them [23 males and 20 females] could be recalled and again lateral cephalograms were taken under the same condition. The two series of cephalograms were traced and 26 angular and linear measurements were evaluated. Data were analyzed using Paired t, Wilcoxon and Mann Whitney U test. All the 43 subjects in this research were categorized into 4 groups according to sex and age [7-9 and 10-12 year old]. The 26 evaluated parameters demonstrated different dental and skeletal growth changes. Anterior cranial base in 7-9 years old boys and girls was respectively increased 2.54 +/- 0.58 and 2.56 +/- 1.52 mm, and increased 2 +/- 0.67 and 2.33 +/- 1.34 mm in 10-12 year old group [p<0.05]. Effective maxillary length increased 4.13 +/- 2.01 and 3.06 +/- 2.46 mm in 7-9 years old boys and girls and 3.5 +/- 1.80 and 2.5 +/- 1.95 mm in 10-12 year old group [p<0.05]. Efective mandibular length increased 5.67 +/- 2.65 and 6.19 +/- 2.83 mm in 7-9 years old boy and girl and 5.82 +/- 2.40 and 5.50 +/- 2.49 in 10-12 years old group [p<0.05]. Ramal height significantly increased in the four groups [p<0.05]. Results of this study can be used as control data for evaluation of orthodontic treatment procedures, especially those involving growth modifications

[Histological study of rainbow trout [Oncorhynchus mykiss] after administration of 17 alpha- methyl testosterone]

Study of histological changes in gonads of fish received a variety treatment of 17-alpha methyl testosterone. Rainbow trout [Oncorhynchus mykiss]. Descriptive study. Application of 17 - alpha methyl testosterone [MT] using immersion and/or oral administration methods in two seasons and in 5 and 11 treatments along with a control group with no hormonal treatment for each season, respectively. In immersion method eyed eggs and larvae were immersed in 250 mg/l MT bath for 2 hours twice 4 and 8 days apart. In oral administration method newly feeding larvae were fed with food containing 0.5, 1, 2, 3 and 30 ppm MT for 60, 70, 90 and 120 days after commencing active feeding. Histological examination was carried out on gonads of 20 fish from each treatment as well as control group at the age of 11 and 24 months for two seasonal groups of fish, respectively. Masculinization and sterilization were successfully carried out on rainbow trout by using a variety treatment of MT. A range of histological changes were observed in gonads of different treatment groups. This included histologically normal males, normal females, intersex, totally atrophic gonads and sterile fish. In some testes a number of follicles were seen among the mass of spermatozoa. In intersex gonads both male and female cell types were observed alongside each other. Sterile gonads could be categorized as: sterile males, sterile females as well as completely sterile containing residual male cells, residual female cells and no cells at all, respectively. in a number of specimens spermatozoan cysts were typically observed. Application fo 17-alpha methyl testosterone to rainbow trout at early stages of development could dramatically change the histological profile of gonads ranging from functional testes, to intersex, to sterility

In viva study on metal release from fixed orthodontic appliances in oral mucosa cells

Fixed orthodontic appliances usually include brackets, bands and archwires made of Stainless Steel, Nickel-Titanium or Nickel - Coballt alloys that can release metal ions. The aim of this study was to evaluate the presence of metal ions in oral mucosa cells. Sixty subjects were included in this study. The study group consisted of 30 orthodontic patients [age range, 18 +/- 2 years] with fixed orthodontic appliances in both arches. The control group was composed of 30 subjects with an age range of 20 +/- 2 years who were not undergoing orthodontic treatment and had no dental restorations. Mucosa samples were collected by gentle brushing of the internal part of the right and left buccal mucosa or all subjects. Nickel, Chromium and Cobalt cellular content was quantified by atomic absorption spectrometry varian and analyzed using Mann Whitney-U and t- test. Nickel ion concentrations in the control and study groups were 12.26 +/- 12.9 ppb and 21.7 +/- 11.4 ppb, respectively. A statistically significant difference was observed between the two groups [p<0.003]. There was no significant difference in the concentration of Chromium ions, between the two groups. Nickel is a strong immunologic sensitizer and chromium and cobalt ions can also cause hypersensivity, dermatitis and asthma. Because of possible adverse biologic effects, scientific research should be directed toward dental materials that not only require mechanic resistance to wear and tear, but also are safe for patients

[Effect of betaine on the efficacy of salinomycin in broiler chicks in experimental coccidiosis]

To study the interactive effect of betaine [BET]and salinomycin [SAL] in coccidian-infected broiler chicks.Randomized complete block with 2*2 factorialarrangement.Four hundred and eighty male Ross 308 broilerchicks.The chicks were randomly assigned to fourdietary treatments including: 1] basal diet, 2] basal dietplus .15% BET, 3] basal diet plus 66ppm SAL, and 4] basaldiet plus .15% BET plus 66ppm SAL. Each treatmentcontained 4 replicates of 30 chicks and fed ad-libitum. Allof the chicks were inoculated with a suspension of themixed culture of Eimeria oocysts on 15 days of age. Fecessamples were taken to determine the number of oocysts pergram of feces [OPG]. Plasma carotenoid concentrations[PCC] were evaluated on 14 and 28 days of age. Bodyweight gain [BWG], feed intake [FI], feed conversion ratio[FCR], and Europeanefficiencyfactor [EEF] weredetermined to evaluate broiler's performance.General linear model [GLM] andDuncan's multiple range test.Supplementation of diets with 66 ppmSALsignificantly on improved the performance, increased thePCC [P<0.05], and decreased the OPG. Adding 0.15% BETalone did not affect production performance, PCC andOPG significantly [P> 0.05]. Diet containing 66 ppm SALsupplemented with 0.15% BET significantly increased theBWG, EEF, and PCC while it decreased the FCR and OPG[P< 0.05].The results of this experimental studyindicated that BET at the level of 0.15% could increase theefficacy of SAL for preventing deleterious effects ofcoccidiosis in broiler chicks

[Evaluation of Giardia infection and comparison of two treatment regimens to eradicate giardiasis in patients referred to laboratories in the South of Tehran]

Parasitic infections are one of the most common problems world wide specially in developing countries including our country. One of the commonest parasitic diseases is giardia lamblia. The objective was to compare effect of Metronidazol and Furazolidon on Giardiasis to evaluate the frequency of giardiasis in south of Tehran. The study is cross-sectional prospective. Between 23 October 1999 and 22 nd February 2000, a total numder of 650 stool specimens from patients with abdominal discomfort were collected for giardia lamblia in 3 laboratories that were located in the south of Tehran. Stool specimens were taken at 3 different times and stool exam was performed by conventional methods. Patients were divided to 3 age groups [0 - 10 years, 10- 20 years, >20 years] and questions regarding sex, age, symptoms, education, economic, water supply were asked. The patients with positive stool exam for giardia labmblia were divided to two groups, one group took metronidazol and another group took furazolidon, and two weeks after completion treatment their stool exams were repeated. A total number of 74 stool specimens were positsve for giardia lamblia, 36 [48.64%] men, 38 [51.35%] women; 36 [10.71%] in age group 0 - 10 years, 20 [25%] in age group 10-20 years, and 18 [7.69%] > 20 years. The most common symptom in children was diarrea and in adult abdominal pain. 88.38% of patients were cured by Metronidazol and 94.11% by Furazolidon. There was no significant difference between metronidazol and furazolidon in the cure of giardia lamblia [P> 0.05, P= 0.6]. In this study, women and age group 10 - 20 were infected more, and education was important in age group 0 - 10 years, therefore, education about water supply, hygiene is effective in controlling giardiasis. Furazolidon was as effective as Metronidazol with fewer side effects, therefore, we can use Furazolidon in treatment of giardiasis