[Repelling property of the methalonic and hexanic extracts of Sambucus ebulus L. against the Culex pipiens: in-vitro study]

Background and Objective: The anti inflammatory, analgesic, antioxidant of Sambucus ebulus L. have been reported in several studies. This study was done to assess the repelling property of the methalonic and hexanic extracts of Sambucus ebulus L. against the Culex pipiens

Methods: In this experimental study, Sambucus ebulus L. collected from the natural inhabitants of Mazandran province in northern Iran. Methalonic and hexanic extraction were provided from the leaf and fruit of Sambucus ebulus L. Concentration of 50 mg/kg, 100 mg/kg and 250 mg/kg was prepared. 0.4 ml of the extract prepared and was spreed on the albino skin area of 4×6 cm2. After 30 minutes the number of the mosquito [Culex pipiens] bites on the skin was recorded. N, Ndiethyl-3 methyl benzamide was considered as positive control

Results: The highest repelling property of the Sambucus ebulus L. belonged to the concentration of 250 mg/kg of leaf and fruit extraction. The highest repelling effect was 80% and 66.8% for leaf methalonic and hexanic extract, respectively. The highest repelling effect was 84% and 72% for fruit metalonic and hexanic extract, respectively [P<0.05]

Conclusion: The methalonic extract of Sambucus ebulus L. had higher repelling efficiency compared to the hexanic extract. The fruit extract also had better effect than the leaf extract

Human amniotic membrane effect on colorectal anastomosis in dogs undergoing radiotherapy with/without diverting stoma: an experimental preliminary study

Background: Radiotherapy is an important factor which results in increase of anastomosis leakage. Diverting loop ileostomy has been usually performed after colorectal anastomosis with history of neo-adjuvant radiotherapy to decrease the chance of leakage. Considering this effect, we assessed the feasibility and outcome of human amniotic membrane in rectal anastomosis in dogs previously treated by high-dose radiotherapy

Materials and Methods: Twelve cross-breed male dogs with the age of 6-8 months and weighting 10-15 kg were randomly divided into four groups. Groups 1 and 2 received radiotherapy and 4 weeks later, single layer end to end anastomosis was performed for all the dogs; also, diverting loop ileostomy was placed in groups 1 and 3. Four weeks later, the anastomosis site was resected and sent for pathologic wound healing scoring. Data were analyzed by SPSS 16 software using Mann- Whitney test

Results: Two dogs [of group 1 and 2] died of peritonitis due to anastomosis leakage during the 2[nd] post operation week. There was no statistically significant difference in wound healing between the case and control groups [P-Value: 0.01]

Conclusion: HAM had a protective role in colorectal anastomosis after neo-adjuvant radiation in cases without loop diverting ileostomy. It can be concluded that HAM placement is a feasible technique instead of diverting loop ileostomy in cases with neo-adjuvant radiotherapy and also in the benign colorectal diseases with high risk anastomoses

[Contamination of dental scaler water lines with legionella pneumophila, pseudomonas aeruginosa and gram positive cocci]

Dental staff are exposed to aerosols. Water supply of dental units has insignificant bacterial count but the existing water in the waterlines has over 100,000 microorganisms per milliliter. Various types of microorganisms exist in the waterline of dental units. Legionella pneumophila, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Gram-positive cocci are among the most important ones. Scaling and root planning is a dental procedure carrying a high risk of bacterial contamination. This study aimed to assess water contamination in private dental offices in Isfahan. In this descriptive study, sampling was done in 50 private offices; 10 ml samples of dental unit water were collected from each scaler and a sample from the city tap water as control. We used 3-step PCR for Legionella detection. The extracted DNA was evaluated for the presence of mip gene sequence using spectrophotometry. For detection of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, samples were cultured in Brilliant Green Bile broth. To confirm P. aeruginosa, the grown colonies were cultured in Cetrimide agar medium and presence of P. aeruginosa was re-confirmed with oxidase test. For evaluation of Gram-positive cocci, multiple smeares were prepared and after Gram staining, Gram-positive specimens were cultured in blood agar medium. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 20 and reported in tables and diagrams as number and percentage. None of the control samples were positive for any bacterium. Thirty-two test samples were also negative for the understudy bacteria; but 18 offices tested positive for these bacteria. Our results shows that hazardous bacteria may be present in dental unit biofilm. Special attention must be paid to the cleanliness of water used in dental procedures

[Clinical accuracy of lpex apex locator for measurement of root canal length of primary molars]

Radiography is the most commonly used technique for root canal length determination; but its application in pedodontics is difficult due to problems namely the radiation hazards, superimposition of permanent teeth buds and uncooperative children. Electronic apex locator [EAL] is used for determination of root canal length. The aim of this study was to assess the accuracy of an Electronic Apex Locator [Ipex] in measuring the root canal length of primary teeth in-vivo. This clinical study was conducted on 50 root canals of primary teeth that had to be extracted. After local anesthesia induction and caries removal, access cavities were prepared and the length of root canals was measured using Ipex Electronic Apex Locator. After the extraction of teeth, the actual length of canals was measured using a #15 K file from a reference point. Data were analyzed using paired t-test and intra-class correlation coefficient. The accuracy of Ipex was 20% for accurate determination of actual root canal length, 66% for estimation within +/- 0.5mm of the apex and 80% for estimation within +/- 1mm of the apex. Paired t-test revealed a significant difference between the actual root canal length and the length displayed by Ipex [P<0.001]. A direct strong correlation existed between the length measured by Ipex and the actual root canal length [r=0.957] Ipex had a tendency to underestimate the actual root canal length. Since the working length is shorter than the actual root canal length, Ipex may be used for endodontic treatment of primary teeth

[ epidemiologic status of scorpion stings in Qom province, 2001-2011]

In the tropical regions of Iran, scorpion stings are one of the most important medical and health problems. Knowing about their epidemiologic aspects might lead to the employment of appropriate preventive methods. Therefore, these studies were done in Qom province for this purpose. This research is a descriptive cross-sectional study which has been done in all of the urban and rural areas of Qom province from 2001 to 2011, and all the cases which were referred to the only available hospital were assessed, examined, treated and subsequently followed. Finally, a questionnaire including demographic, epidemiologic and clinical data was completed for the patients. Chi square tests were used for the evaluation of the hypothesis. In total, 790 cases of scorpion stings were referred to the hospital during the period of study. Most of the cases were males [60.25%] in the 10-24 age groups. The most cases occurred during spring and summer. Hands and feet were the most common location of scorpion stings. 18.7% of envenomed cases were due to black scorpions. 74.4% of cases were from rural regions. 77.2% of the sufferers slept outdoors and on the ground. 20.5% of cases were surrounded by timber, dust and building materials. Based on these findings, scorpion stings are considered a public health problem in Qom province. Consequently, it is necessary to introduce health education programs for personal protection, in order to prevent possible injuries from scorpions, especially for the boy students that reside in rural areas. Also the villagers should use proper beds to sleep in the outdoors.

Life expectancy at birth in rural areas based on corrected data of the Iranian vital horoscope

Life expectancy at birth as an alternative summary measure of mortality represents number of years which a newborn will be alive based on the current age specific death rates. As it summarizes death rates across all age range in a given population is the most common summary measure of mortality. The aim of this study was to correct death rates for underreport and estimate life expectancy at birth in rural population of Iran in 2008. In addition, this study aimed to assess the Vital Horoscope system's data quality. Data were obtained from all Health Houses in Iranian villages in 2008. In order to adjust over 5 years old death rates for underreport, we used Brass Growth Balance method. Since this method is not applicable to under 5 years old, we used child mortality rates projected based on the Iranian Demographic and Health survey 2000 to correct death rates. Adjusted life expectancy at birth for males was 71.5 year and for females was 74.4 year. Completeness of the death data was 88% for males and 79% for females. Adjusted child [under 5] mortality rate by sex in males and females was 25.9 and 23.8 per 1000 live births respectively. Adult mortality for males was 167.2 and 98.3 for females per 1000. Data based on Vital Horoscope system are a suitable source to estimate life expectancy and other mortality statistics. Also has an acceptable completeness on death registration. Further studies to investigate accuracy of data from the Vital Horoscope system are suggested

Estimating the proportion of diabetes to the attributable burden of cardiovascular diseases in Iran

This study aimed at estimating the proportion of diabetes as a risk factor to the attributable burden of cardiovascular diseases in Iran. Comparative Risk Assessment methodology was used to calculating Potential Impact Fraction [PIF]. To calculate PIF, data on the prevalence of newly diagnosed diabetes mellitus [NDAI] and known diabetes mellitus [KDAI] were obtained from 3rd Iranian surveillance of risk factors of non- communicable diseases and data on corresponding measures of effect were derived from a cohort study. PIF were estimated on both theoretical minimum and feasible minimum risk. Uncertainty for the attributable burden wras estimated by Monte Carlo simulation-modeling techniques incorporating sources of uncertainty. According to multivariate- adjusted hazard ratios, by reducing the prevalence of Iranian women with diabetes from 10.05 percent to the feasible minimum risk level i.e. 5 percent, 6.8° o [95% uncertainty intervals: 3.5- 9.8] of attributable Disability Adjusted Life Years [DALYs] to CYD are avoidable and the corresponding value for men were 3.1% [95% uncertainty intervals: 1.4- 4.8]. Although data on the prevalence of diabetes and corresponding measures of associations were obtained from an updated and country- specific source, but to better priority setting, PIF should be applied to updated and revised burden of CYDs

Efficacy of community-based participatory research on diabetes care in yasouj-lran

Diabètes is a major heaith issue worldwide. This study evaluâtes whether a community-based participatory program may improve diabètes care in adult in west area of Yasouj. A community based participatory research was designed. A local leading group was established consisted of academie researchers, local leaders, heaith providers and public representatives. Ail the 30-65 years old residents of designated area [2569 persons] were screened for detecting diabètes; anthropometrie measurements and biochemical tests were measured. Educational interventions about improving the diet and physical activities were performed for high risk individuels through a 3-months period. Out of 2569 individuels, 1336 were at high risk. Approximately 228 persons [17%] identified having diabètes. After the intervention, the mean FBS, HbAlC, TG and cholesterol of participant significantly decreased [p<0.05], decreasing in systolic and dîastolic blood pressure and body mass index were seen however this was not statistically significant. The mean physical activity and exercise increased and consumption of frying foods, saturated oil decreased significantly. Community-Based Participatory cares could be a feasible model for control of diabètes and its risk factors

Knowledge, attitudes and practice of general practitioners about disease notification [reporting] in Qom

Epidemiological surveillance of infectious diseases through the mandatory-reporting System is crucial for disease prevention program and success in it related to physicien, partnership. The aim of this study was to identify statues of notification System among general practitioners [physicians] in Qom. In this analytical cross section study a self-administered questionnaire was used to assess knowledge and attitude of notifiable diseases, self-reported practices, reasons for noncompliance with reportïng requirements, and suggestions to improve compliance. A total 140 general physicians completed the questionnaire. Appropriate statistical analyses were performed. 14/3% and 13/6% had a good knowledge and attitude about notification and only 47% had good performance. There was significant association between the participants' self-reported practices and knowledge total scores and participating in continuing medical education. The major barrier of reporting notifiable diseases was poor knowledge of the list of reportable diseases and reporting requirements. The most frequent suggestions for improving physiciens' compliance with disease reporting were to simplify the reporting process and giving awareness about list of notifiable diseases. Our findings suggest inappropriate knowledge, attitude and practices about disease notification requirements among GPs. Modifying physisicans' knowledge and motivation, eliminating barriers to disease reporting, and promoting some facilitating factors could help reduce the underreporting of notifiable diseases

Estimating the contribution of selected risk factors in attributable burden to stroke in Iran

Knowledge of the magnitude of avoidable burden by risk factors is needed for health policy, priority setting, and preventing stroke. The aim of this study was to estimate the contribution of selected risk factors including hypertension, overweight, obesity, tobacco use, and physical inactivity to the attributable burden of stroke in Iran. The World Health Organization Comparative Risk Assessment [CRA] methodology was employed to calculate the Potential Impact Fraction [PIF] and percentage of avoidable burden of stroke, which attributed to its risk factors among Iranian adults in 2009. Prevalence of risk factors was obtained from the 5th STEPS survey of chronic disease risk factors which conducted in 2009. PIF was estimated on both theoretical minimum and feasible minimum risk. A simulation procedure incorporating sources of uncertainty was used to estimate the uncertainties for the attributable burden. About 15.7% [95% uncertainty intervals: 5.8- 23.5] of attributable Disability Adjusted Life Years [DALYs] to stroke in adult males and 15.8% [95% uncertainty intervals: 5.8- 23.5] in adult females are avoidable after changing the current prevalence [16.0% and 16.1% for males and females, respectively] of hypertension to 10% in both sexes. This work highlighted the important role of hypertension and overweight. Accordingly, policy makers are advised to consider these risk factors once implementing interventional program in Iran

An investigation on As, Cd, Mo and Cu contents of soils surrounding the Meyduk tailings dam

The contents of As, Cd, Cu and Mo were determined in soil surrounding Meyduk tailings dam based on 21 surface soil samples. Assessment of toxic element pollution in studied soil samples needs knowledge of pre-anthropogenic metal concentration to act as a reference against which measured values could be compared. Estimating the background values was executed by sampling rocks adjacent to soil sampling stations. Various indices including enrichment factor [EF], pollution load index [PLI], modified contamination degree [mCd] and geoaccumulation index [I geo] were used for determining the contamination level of soil in the vicinity of tailings impoundment under the effect of the tailings dust. Anthropogenic pollution was diagnosed from natural one by sequential extraction done by Tessier et al method and calculating pollution intensity index [l poli]. The results indicate a significant upward enrichment in northeastern and southwestern surface soil around the tailings dam for Cd and Cu. The dominant wind direction demonstrated that only the contamination of southwestern soil around the tailings dam would be attributed to tailings dust while the dispersive dusts scattered after the mine explosions generally affected the northeastern part

Breeding biology of the great cormorant phalacrocorax carbo sinensis in southern coasts of the caspian sea, Iran

Breeding biology of the Great Cormorants Phalacrocorax carbo sinensis is assessed in the southern coasts of the Caspian Sea, Iran during the years 2008-2010. About 84 nests located on 63 trees were examined. Nests were built on large trees located in Abbas abad marsh, Gilan Province. Initially, eggs were found on first week of April and egg laying continued until the last week of May. Clutch size varied from 2 to 5 eggs, with a mean clutch size of 2.8 +/- 0.69. Mean shape index for all eggs were 1.68 +/- 0.035 and 1.706 +/- 0.048, respectively. The length of the incubation period was estimated at 26.6 +/- 2.2 days. in 2010 of the 84 eggs laid, 26.6% were lost. In 2009 of 92 eggs laid, 62% were lost. Number of eggs hatched per nest averaged at 1.57 +/- 0.57 in small ones and 1.8 +/- 1.6 in large nest. Mean weight of eggs was estimated at 46.8 +/- 1.28g [N=10, mean =48.9, min=45.2]

effects of internal wall covering materials on hazards of indoor radon concentrations in houses of Iran

Radon gas emanating from underground can concentrate indoor and reach levels, which represent a risk to people's health. According to WHO [World Health Organization] and ERA [Environmental Protection Agency], radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the world. Due to the direct correlation of lung cancer and radon exposure, it is ideal to evaluate the hazards of radon accumulation in the Iran dwellings with different materials by direct measurement of the radon concentrations using accurate, simple and fast method. The aim of this study was to measure variation of radon concentrations with different covering materials on internal building surfaces including walls, which are used in Iran dwellings. A special chamber with changeable walls of different covering materials [gypsum, wallpaper, oil dye, plastic dye, wood board, and Belka] was made. Radioactive lantern mantles were used for elevating the radon [220]Rn] levels in the chamber artificially. Ventilation in the chamber had been such way that accumulation of radon could be possible. Active measurement by Prassi portable radon gas surveyor was performed for staging purposes. The average radon concentration for wood and plastic dye was 869.0 +/- 66.7 and 936.8_60.6 [bq/m[3]], respectively, while that for wallpaper and gypsum was 449.2 +/- 101.7, 590.9 +/- 49.0 [bq/m[3]], significantly lower than other covers. The average radon concentration for oil dye and Belka cover was 668.3 +/- 42.3, 697.2 +/- 136.7 [bq/m[3]], respectively. Individuals living in a house with internal wall covering materials of gypsum and wallpaper receive an average annual dose smaller than one living in a house with internal wall covering materials of wood board and plastic dye. Using wallpaper and gypsum as an internal cover for the dwellings suggested

[ study of the causes of mortality in Kashan based on the general mortality list of ICO-10]

Reliable information on the causes of death is essential for the development of national and international health policies and for the prevention and control of the diseases and injuries. This study is performed to investigate the causes of death and their variations in Kashan. It is expected that by recognizing the principal and prevalent causes of death, the emphasis of the equipment and expenses moves towards removing these causes and health priorities and policies should be based on fighting against such causes. This study is retrospective, descriptive and cross-sectional and was conducted on 391 I death reports during 2004-7 in Kashan. Research data includes sex, age, habitat and disease which were gathered using the mortality software at research deputy department. Data was analyzed by descriptive methods using EXCEL software. Results showed that out of 3911 deceased, 58.2% were men and 41.8% women; 83% were city residents and 17% villagers;%69.4 were at the 65 years of age and more and%0.7 were in the range of 5-14years of age. The most common conventional causes of death were vascular diseases [38.5%], neoplasm [14%] and injuries resulting from external causes [10.4%].Most mortality and morbidity rates depend on people's life styles and environmental factors. By adopting a safe life style and securing the environment, the likelihood of morbidity and mortality and their costs could be reduced, and the quality of life can also be increased

[ comparison between the effects of two saliva stimuli and ordinary chewing gums on xerostomia in hemodialysis patients]

One of the most important side effects of frequent hemodialysis is xerostomia. Therefore, this study compared saliva secretion caused by a specific saliva stimulant chewing gum [Bioten] with an ordinary sugar free one [Orbit] on hemodialysis patients. This study was a clinical, double-blinded cross-over study. Thirty volunteer hemodialysis patients of two dialysis centers in Isfahan were randomly classified into two groups. In the first period of 14 days, each group was given one brand of chewing gum [Biotene or Orbit] to chew. Three gums a day of each brand were given to each group to chew for at least 10 minutes, while the other group was given the other brand. After a one- week-washout period in between, the second 14 days period was accomplished by changing the brands of chewing gums given to each group. Before the beginning of the study and after each period, the secreted saliva was measured. The findings were statistically analyzed using the t test and Wilcoxon test. Chewing each kind led to a considerable increase in saliva secretion and achieved patient satisfaction [p<0.05] while the efficacy of Bioten was significantly higher [p<0.001]. Regarding the patients' overall satisfaction about the effect of the chewing gums on reducing xerostomia, most patients chose Bioten [p<001]. Both kinds of chewing gums were effective in increasing saliva secretion. However, the effect of Bioten was more significant

Household catastrophic health expenditure

Fairness in financial contribution for health was determined by WHO [World Health Report, 2000] as the third goal of health systems which is measured by fairness in financial contribution index [FFCI]. The aim of this study was to estimate FFCI and quantify extent of catastrophic household heath expenditures. We conducted a descriptive study during May 2008. Subjects were chosen by "Systematic Random sampling" among residents of Maskan's population-based research center [Maskan Center] in Kermanshah, Iran. After completing informed consent form, we collected data using a questionnaire by interview with head of family. In order to describing data and estimating FFCI, we used descriptive statistics and WHO methodology, respectively. Households with catastrophic expenditures and impoverished households were defined as those with health expenditures over 40% and 50% of their ability to pay, respectively. The mean age of head of families was 48.96 +/- 12.86 years. From 189; 12.7% of household's heads were female. 75.1% of households were covered by at least one health insurance scheme. FFCI was 0.57. The proportion of households facing catastrophic health expenditures was 22.2% [95% CI=16.3%-28.1%]. The rate of FFCI among participants implied an inequality in health financing contribution. In addition, many of households [22.2%] faced catastrophic health expenditures while according to WHO estimation, the figure in the whole country was 2% in 1999. Our study revealed the importance of protecting households against the costs of ill-health

[Comparison of the fluoride content of four tea brands using spectrophotmetry and ionic chromatography methods]

Tea contains high concentrations of fluoride; therefore, tea consumption may contribute significantly to the total fluoride intake. Since different teas contain various amounts of fluoride, this study was conducted to compare the fluoride extraction of four popular domestic and foreign tea brands using spectrophotometric and ionic chromatography methods. In this study, two foreign black tea brands [Lipton and Ceylon] and two domestic tea brands [Golestan and Mozafar] were selected. Three packages of each tea brand with the same production date and different batch types were purchased. To each 4 g of dried tea, 100 ml of boiling deionized water was added and the mixture was left on a water bath for the extraction of fluoride for 20 minutes at 85[degree sign] c and then analyzed with spectrophotometric and ionic chromatography methods. ANOVA, Duncan and paired t tests were used for statistical analysis. All four tea infusions had a considerable fluoride concentration [2.7-4.44ppm, using ionic chromatography and 2.77-4.38ppm using spectophotometry]. There was a significant difference between the fluoride concentration of these four tea brands [p<.05], of which Lipton had the highest floride concentration. Based on this research, there was no significant difference between spectrophotometry and ionic chromatography methods in determining the concentration of fluoride ions. The mean fluoride concentration in Lipton tea was significantly higher than the other brands. There was no significant difference between spectrophotometic and ionic chromatography

[Clinical assessment of using two types of adhesive [PQ1 and prompt-l-pop] on the success rate of fissure sealant in saliva-contaminated enamel]

Statement of Problem: Contamination during the procedure is the main reason for failure of fissure sealant therapy. In clinical conditions with difficult isolation such as semi-erupted tooth or poor cooperation of the patient, the contamination is probable. There is a limited number of clinical studies regarding the effect of adhesive on the success rates of fissure sealant

Purpose: The present study was conducted to compare the effects of two adhesives on the success rate of fissure sealant in the contaminated enamel

Methods and Material: In this clinical trial, 35 school children [6-8 years of age] with healthy and newly-erupted upper molar teeth participated. Sixty molar teeth were selected and divided into two groups. PQ1 adhesive was used for one group and PROMPT-L-POP for the other. As the teeth were newly erupted and the distopalatal area was in contact with the gingival sulcus and therefore it was impossible to isolate, the distal area was considered as contaminated and the mesial area, capable of adequate isolation, was assumed as isolated. In each group, after etching in one side, the teeth were treated only with sealant and on the other side before treatment with sealant, firstly the bonding agent was applied. So, two control groups were formed for each bonding agent. After 3, 6 and 12 month intervals, the results of the treatment were studied in terms of the success and failure and then analyzed using Wilcoxon, Mann Whitney and Chi-square tests

Results: The success rate of the sealant treatment increased significantly, by using adhesives [p <0.001]. The use of the two adhesives significantly increased the success rate of the fissure sealant on the contaminated teeth, even more than when the teeth had been isolated properly and treated only with fissure sealant [ p <0.001]. The result of using PQ1 was better than that of Prompt-l-pop although the difference was not statistically significant

Conclusion: The results of the study showed that the contaminated enamel influenced the success of treatment after etching and before sealant application. So, the use of the adhesives in the treatment of fissure sealants is recommended in both the isolated and contaminated conditions

[Comparison of the accuracy of two methods of age estimation based on radiography of the developing teeth]

Statement of Problem: Dental age estimation methods are used in the treatment plan and identification of the age of unknown corps and skulls. One of the methods of age estimation is Foti method which is based on regression analysis of dental variables [number of tooth germs and erupted tooth] for which four models have been proposed

Purpose: The aim of the present study was to compare the dental age derived from these four methods with the Demirjian method on the basis of chronological age

Methods and Material: In this cross-sectional descriptive study, 150 panoramic radiographs of 90 girls and 60 boys aged 6-20 years were studied. The variables required for regression analysis were derived from clinical examinations and panoramic radiographs. Demirjian age was determined using panoramic radiographs

Results: The mean chronological age was 10.74 +/- 3.02, Demirjian age 11.16, +/- 2.76, model one 11.57 +/- 1.61, two 11.44 +/- 2.35, three 11.53 +/- 2.49 and four 11.24 +/- 1.85 years. The comparison between chronological age, Demirjian age and regression models showed a statistically significant difference. The obtained ages from Demirjian methods and regression models were shown to be overestimated

Conclusion: A positive association was found between the real ages and age estimates derived from these four models. The equations allow age estimation in specific situations [such as when only either the maxillae or mandible is available or when the radiography is not available]