[Age estimation from pulp/tooth area ratio using digital panoramic radiography]

To estimate the age in forensic identification, when none of the methods is satisfactory, the teeth are used. The aim of the present study was to estimate the age from pulp/tooth area ratio [AR] by digital panoramic radiography in patients referred to a radiography clinic. In this diagnostic study, digital panoramic radiographs of 120 cases were assessed. The chronological age was calculated by subtracting the date of birth from the date of radiographs and the pulp/tooth AR was calculated with "AutoCad" software. Using the regression model, the age was estimated. In this study, the role of sex was also assessed. The mean difference between the chronological and estimated age was 0.11 years in male group. The correlation coefficient was -0,180 and the correlation between age and AR was not statistically significant [p=0.169]. The mean difference between the chronological and estimated age was 0.36 years in female group. Correlation coefficient was -0.336 and the correlation between age and AR was significant [p=0.004]. Negative correlation indicates that by advanced age, pulp/tooth AR decreases. According to the results of this study, AR alone cannot be used for age estimation alone, but it can be used as combined index with other indices for this purpose

[Comparison of the effect of two types of short message service [interactive and non-interactive] on anticoagulant adherence of patients with prosthetic heart valves]

Introduction: One of the major complications of valve replacement, is valve dysfunction which occurs in thrombolytic complication and systemic embolism. Therefore, these patients should take anticoagulant with warfarin. Incorrect use of anticoagulant is the cause of thrombotic complications and bleeding in patients with mechanical valves due to very low levels of adherence to the medication. This research was done with the purpose of comparison of the effect of two types of short message service [interactive and non-interactive] on patient compliance with anticoagulant regimens in patients with prosthetic heart valves

Method: This study is a clinical trial performed on 90 eligible patients referred to Imam Khomeini hospital in Tehran, Iran for a period of three months. The patients were divided into three groups of 30 patients, control, interactive and noninteractive. Self-report questionnaires were completed and International Normalized Ratio [INR] levels were recorded. Educational leaflets were given to all of the patients, their phone numbers were taken and they were instructed about using short message service. The control group did not receive SMS. Four educational messages were sent to the non-interactive group every week for a period of three months. In the interactive group, in addition to sending educational messages, patients were able to communicate with the researcher and ask their questions. After three months, all three groups completed the self-report questionnaires again. Then anticoagulant adherence was evaluated using questionnaire and INR levels. Data were analysed using fisher exact test, Chi-Square, paired T test, and analysis of variance

Results: Before the intervention all three groups did not have a significant difference in the mean of drug [P=0.43] and diet [P=0.84] adherence. But three months after intervention, three groups had significant difference in the mean of the anticoagulant adherence [P

[Assessment the effect of small message service [SMS] follow up on self efficacy in dialysis patients]

Introduction: Dialysis therapy and its side effect is a major health problem yet. Dialysis can't cause patients survival alone and along with that, patient should adhere to therapy regimen and following up of that by health provider is essential. High self efficacy leads to high adherence and reduce mental and physical wellbeing. The aim of this study is assessment the effect of SMS follow up on self efficacy of dialysis patients

Method: This study is a clinical. 70 dialysis patients were randomly assigned to two groups [training and training with follow up]. Both groups were given training in person with the disease in through two sessions and for the follow-up group after training were sent text messages 6 times a week for 6 weeks. Using a check list, the self efficacy of patients was measured before and after training and after 6 weeks in both groups. Demographic data and patient satisfaction rates were evaluated using a questionnaire. In order to face validity, reference text books and reliable and valid literature were reviewed. Alpha cronbakh 79% was determined for reliability. Data in the two groups was analyzed using t test and chi-square [SPSS v.20]

Results: The mean self efficacy score in comparison of before and after 2 weeks of training with the training group [P=0.000] and follow-up group [P=0.000], there was a significant difference. There was significant difference in Mean self efficacy score differences between before and after 6 weeks of training in the training group [1.88 +/- 9.43] and in follow-up group [6.62 +/- 9.5]

Conclusion: Training with follow-up through text messages in hemodialysis patients could possibly be effective in reducing the problems of patients with self efficacy. The cost-effectiveness of this method is recommended to follow hemodialysis patients

[Evaluation of exposure to carcinogenic agents in Tehran citizens]

Cancer is a major health problem worldwide. Several factors are involved in cancer. However the role of environmental factors is more prominent. Modification of these factors into proper behavior would help to prevent cancer. Accordingly this study was done with the aim of evaluating the exposure to carcinogenic agents in Tehran citizens. It was a descriptive, cross- sectional survey. The sample consisted of 2500 Tehran citizens who were recruited by systematic cluster random sampling. Data was collected by a researcher- made instrument with five parts including demographic information, and questions regarding alcohol and tobacco use, radiation exposure, exposure to chemical agents, and reaction to stress. Data was analyzed by descriptive statistics using SPSS-PC [v. 11.5]. The result showed that10% of the sample had consumed alcohol, 16% were Smokers. 22% were encountered U.V, 88/4% had not contact with chemical agents at work place. 94/4% were not taking oral contraceptives. The majority of Tehran citizens [45/8%] got angry sometimes. Most of Tehran Citizens exposed to carcinogenic agents, especially radiation, cigarette smoke, chemicals and with less intensity with stressors. Due to alcohol being forbidden in Islam, no clear information is available about its consumption. To educate people about the carcinogenic agents can be helpful

[Knowledge about seven warning signs of cancer and protective measures of cancer among people in Tehran, Iran]

To assess knowledge about seven warning signs of cancer and protective measures of cancer among people in Tehran, Iran. This was a descriptive study. 2500 individuals living in Tehran were took part in the study. Data were collected using a questionnaire that contained three parts: demographic section, questions related to seven warning signs of cancer and protective measures. The results showed that the information on 7 warning signs of cancer was low among the majority [66.6%]. In relation to protective measures also the knowledge was low among the majority [78.7%]. There was a positive relationship between knowledge about seven warning signs of cancer and protective measures of cancer. The knowledge of people about cancer and its prevention measures in Tehran was low. The need for health education campaigns seems necessary

[Assessing food habits for cancer prevention among Tehran citizens]

Cancer is one of the three health issues of the society and the third cause of mortality in Iran. Food habits play a significant role in preventing cancer. The present study therefore, was carried out to assess food habits of Tehran citizens for cancer prevention. This study is a cross- sectional study was conducted with a sample of 2500 Tehran citizens who were recruited through systematic cluster random sampling. Data were collected using questionnaires including demographic factors and food habits. Validity and reliability of tool was gained through content validity and Alfa-Cronbach test. Data was collected in one time occasion and in person. All statistics were computed by the SPSS software using descriptive and inferential tests. The showed demonstrated that the 38.2% of Tehran citizens had their BMI at the level of being overweight and upper. The food habits for cancer prevention were relatively appropriate for most of them [61.3%], but no one was at the desired level. Concerning the study results that no one had proper food habits for cancer prevention, public education and increasing awareness of people in this regards by ministry of health, cancer institutes, mass media, educational system, ministry of labour and social affairs is strongly recommended

[Attitudes of nursing and midwifery school's faculty toward blended E-learning at Tehran University of Medical Sciences]

Blended E-Learning is an educational method which has been used recently in higher education worldwide. So, it seems that it is crucial for the Iranian academic members to accept it as a new educational method. This study was conducted to investigate attitudes of the faculty of Nursing and Midwifery School at Tehran University of Medical Sciences toward blended E-learning. In this cross-sectional study, all faculty members of Tehran University of Medical Science [n=60] were recruited to the study. Data were gathered using validated and reliable self-designed questionnaires. The collected data were analyzed using SPSS software. The response rate was 93.33% [n=56]. Most of the respondents [85.7%] were female. The mean age was 44.88 [SD=5.6]. The years of teaching ranged from 5-30 years [mean=16.75]. The majority of the respondents [66%] had positive attitude toward blended e-learning; thirty four per cent had completely positive attitude and none of them had negative attitudes. About 41% reported that they were eager to provide their course syllabuses according to this approach and 87.5% said that they were willing to attend the blended e-learning education workshops. There were no significant relationships between demographic variables and the attitudes. There was a significant relationship between willing to attend the workshops and positive attitude toward blended e-learning [P=0.012]. According to the positive attitude of the respondents toward blended e-learning, it is recommended that further studies take place in order to design and implement the approach in formal education in the school of Nursing and Midwifery of Tehran University of Medical Science

[Effect of open and closed system endotracheal suctioning on vital signs of ICU patients]

Nowadays, mechanical ventilators are being used for some patients in ICUs due to various physiological and clinical causes. Keeping endotracheal tube clean and open is necessary in order to improve the patient's oxygenation. This study aimed to investigate the effects of open and closed system endotracheal suctioning on vital signs of patients in ICU. In this quasi-experimental study, 40 patients from Shariaty Hospital's ICU were selected using convenience sampling method. Data was collected using a record sheet. The sheet consisted of demographic characteristics and vital signs including blood pressure, mean arterial blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate, and arterial blood oxygen saturation percentage. Endotracheal suctioning was done randomly in 90 minute intervals once using closed method and once using open method. All patients were hyper oxygenated by Ambo bag for 2 minutes before and after the procedures. The patients' vital signs were checked and recorded using SIEMENS 680 2xi monitor before, and 2 minutes and 5 minutes after the procedures. Data were analyzed using SPSS software. Systolic and diastolic blood pressures, and heart rate showed higher increase 2 and 5 minutes after the open method compared to close method [P < 0.001]. Arterial blood oxygen saturation percentage reduced in the open method more than in the closed one 2 and 5 minutes after the procedure [P < 0.001]. No significant difference was seen in the patients' respiratory rate in two methods [P > 0.05]. Closed endotracheal suction system results in lower disturbances in the vital signs than the open system. Therefore, for better results, the closed endotracheal suctioning is suggested

[Interns' viewpoints toward the stAuts of training by residents in Isfahan Univeristy of Medical Sciences]

Resident as a capable educational resource can make use of every opportunity for training interns and students. The aim of this study was to determine the interns' viewpoints toward the stAuts of their training by residents. In a descriptive cross-sectional study in educational hospitals of Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, 54 interns spending the last 6 months of their medical training were selected through simple random sampling. Data was gathered using a researcher-made questionnaire which was filled by interns in self-administered manner. Data was analyzed by SPSS software using frequency distribution, mean, and standard deviation. Mean and standard deviation of interns' viewpoints toward the training by residents in areas of knowledge, practice, individual characteristics, the most useful educational field, the process of education, and educational capabilities and responsibilities were 58.2 +/- 10.9, 66 +/- 12.5, 50.7 +/- 13.3, 64 +/- 17, 45 +/- 14.8, and 56.8 +/- 13 out of 100, respectively. Based on 70.4 percent of interns, first year residents were more motivated for training. According to interns, clinic and emergency ward were more suitable environments for training by residents while residents spent a little time on training. Interns' work load and lack of purpose and planning in residents' training were among problems mentioned by interns. The scores that interns gave to the stAuts of training by residents were in average level. The educational role of residents varies in different wards and shows that they can make better contributions to education. Holding workshops on teaching methods for residents and investigating the existing barriers for education are recommended

[Satisfaction of student and faculty members with implementing blended-e-learning]

Blended-E-Learning system utilizes various methods and advanced technology to improve learning quality. This study aimed at assessing students' and faculty members' satisfaction with blended-e-learning system which was developed within some courses in School of Nursing and Midwifery of Tehran University of medical Science. The study was carried out using a descriptive-comparative method. Volunteer teachers [n=17] in different programmes [BS, MS and PhD] designed their courses appropriate with blended-e-learning system. In total, 22 courses [45 credit points] of bachelor, master and PhD in Nursing as well as bachelor and master in Midwifery were presented through blended-e-learning system in first semester of educational year, 2008-2009. A self-constructed questionnaire of satisfaction was used the collect the data at end of the semester. All statistics were computed through the SPSS software [version 16] using descriptive [frequency, percentages] and non-parametric statistical tests [Wilcoxon test]. A total of 181 students answered the questionnaire [with a response rate of 88.2%]. 67.4% students were highly satisfied with the system while 24.3% were dissatisfied. Students' satisfaction was assessed within four domains of structure and practical issues; learner related issues; curriculum and content related issues and learner support related issues. Among faculty members, 88.2% were well satisfied with teaching in blended-e-learning system. Both students and faculty members preferred blended-e-learning system to conventional method [P<0.0001]. Considering the learning flexibility of blended-e-learning system and provided opportunity in taking advantages of face to face and electronic education, both which resulted learners and teachers' satisfaction, the study recommends blended-e-learning system as an effective method of education to be used in universities of medical sciences in the country. It's suggested to pay specific attention to enhance the interaction and motivation in blended-e-learning education

effect of lecture and e-learning methods on learning mother and child health course in nursing students

Traditional teaching methods used in medical education are not able to respond to the rapid changes and growth of information as well as continuous change in educational needs of societies. This study was performed to compare the effect of two teaching approaches, lecture and e-learning on learning outcomes of mother and child health course in nursing students of Tehran Medical University. This quasi-experimental study was performed on all third semester nursing students who had passed mother and child health course in 2006 [N = 32].It was a one group two-shot study. During the first four weeks, the students received traditional education and during the second four weeks they studied the rest of the subject matter using an on-line learning method. At the end of the course, the students' opinion toward the educational methods was asked using a questionnaire. An exam that covered the content of the 4-week block was also administered. Analysis of data was done by SPSS software using mean, standard deviation, and t-test. The learning outcomes in both groups were similar. Based on the students' opinion about two teaching methods, e-learning was more effective on "their capability to use the method" and "independence in using the method", and lecture was better than e-learning in "the effect on learning" and "motivation". E-learning can be used for teaching some nursing courses. It is recommended to use e-learning method with considering appropriate interactive and more attractive virtual environments to motivate students

Wives running away from home: a survey on psychosocial factors authors

The planning for prevention and control of the wives running away from home needs the evidence-based information about its complex bio-psycho-social causality network at the family, husband home and the community levels. This article aims to present a survey on psychosocial factors of running away from home among a sample of Iranian wives. Method: This research is based on a survey on 31 cases and deep interviews with 8 cases in the 9 centers of Welfare Organization and Prisons during 8 months consecutive sampling. The most run away wives were exposed to domestic violence and a weak network of social support. They felt depression, anxiety, sense of isolation and powerless. They had low access to the valuable resources at the family and they mostly Show extroverted and neurotic personality. The problem of wives running away from home is the consequence of a complex psychosocial causality network and needs more analytical study and strengthening of supportive social organizations and improving the women knowledge about their capabilities and social rights

[ investigation of quality of life and factors affecting it in the patients with congestive heart failure]

Improving the quality of life is generally one of the main goals in caring of the patients with congestive heart failure, so identifying factors affecting it is significantly important. This study was conducted to determining the quality of life of these patients. 184 of patients congestive heart failure who referred to clinics of Tehran University of Medical Sciences were chosen by goal-based sampling method. Data collection was done by questionnaire, which was consisted of 4 parts: individual factors, factors related to disease, patient knowledge and quality of life. Data analysis was done by SPSS computerized software. Most of the researching samples in following dimensions had undesirable quality of life: physical activity dimension [44.6%], Psychological dimension [47.3%], Economical/Social dimension [49.5%], total Quality of life [46.7%] and had fairly desirable quality of life in general health dimension [42.4%]. There is a significant statistical relationship between quality of life and these variables: job, Education level, care giver, the intensity of illness, duration of illness period, number of refers to physician and hospitalization, duration of combination of hypertension with CHF, presence of edema, high cholesterol, characteristics of disease, the intensity of fatigue at the time of research and in last 1 month ago [p=0.000] and the kinds of using drugs [p=0.039], but there is not a significant statistical relationship between quality of life and these variable: age, gender, Marriage status, Number of people living together, Having therapeutic insurance, Smoking, Body Mass Index: BMI presence of Myocardial Infarction or other diseases and patient knowledge. Congestive heart failure has a negative affect on quality of life. So assessing the quality of life and promoting it is viewed as one of the duties of nurses and also as one of the major caring goals

[ relation between female teenagers' life style and osteoporosis prevention]

Some aspects of life style in adulthood have major preventive role from osteoporosis in adult ages. This research has been done in order to determining female teenager's life style in relation with prevention of osteoporosis. This research was a descriptive - analytical study. In this study, 760 person of female teenage students in high schools and pre-university centers of zone 17 in Tehran city were chosen by random classified cluster sampling method. In this study, the tool for data collection was written questionnaire, and method of it was answering to questionnaire. The questionnaire had 2 parts. First part included demographic characteristics, and second part included different dimensions of lifestyle in relation with prevention of osteoporosis, such as nutrition, exercise and physical activity, habits [smoking, using weight loss food regimen and weight loss drug]. The life style categorized as 3 levels unfavorable, partially favorable, and favorable. The collected information was assessed by SPSS software and descriptive and analytical statistical methods were used to reaching study objects. Results Showed nutrition, physical activity and exercise the highest percent of cases [51.8%, 57.7%] had undesirable lifestyle. Also 50 percent of cases had undesirable lifestyle. About habits [Smoking, using weight loss food regimen and using weight loss drug] the highest percent of cases [74.9%] had desirable lifestyle. Also there was a significant statistical relationship between life style and variables of education level [p=0.004], economical status of family [p=0.043], the birth number in family [p=0.001] and educational level of mother [p=0.005]. According to the results of research, lifestyle of 50% of female teenagers was undesirable. Findings of this research are attentive and need more assessment and planning by responsible people in order to omitting noted problems in lifestyle

Survey of cancer incidence during a 5-year [1998-2002] period in Semnan province

Suitable information of different cancers in special geographic area can define medical programs for treatment and screening of high-risk groups. The provincial health authority reported a high mortality rate from upper GI cancer in the center of Iran. A comprehensive search was undertaken to survey and register all cases of cancer during a 5-year [1998-2002] period among the indigenous population of Semnan province. Diagnosis of cancer was based on histopathology, clinical or radiological findings of patients, and death certificate. A total of 1732 patients with cancers [mean age 59.41 +/- 19.08 years] were found during the study. Of these, 936 [54.86%] were in males. Crude rate were 124.8/100'000 and 112.1/100,000 in males and females, respectively. Age-standardized rate [ASRs] for all cancers in males and females G were 156/100'000 and 136/100,000 person-year, respectively. Gastric cancer was the most common tumor with incidence rate of 19.7 per 100,000 people, ASRs=27.5. In UGIC, gastric cancer was the most common [47.17%], colon malignancies [8.1%, 9.5 per 100,000 populations], esophagus [6.8%, 7.9 per 100,000 populations], liver [2.4%, and 2.8 per 100,000 populations]. In women breast, uterine and ovary, stomach and skin were the most common cancers respectively. In young ages population the most common tumors were brain, ALL and bone, respectively. Gastric cancer alone constitutes one-fifth of all cancers in Semnan, with the highest incidence rate. The ASR of which is the highest reported from Iran up to now and one of the highest in the world