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Open Access Article
1 - Dynamics of a low-threshold optically pumped organic vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser
Mohammad Reza Shayesteh Ghafar Darvish -
Open Access Article
2 - Paradigmatic analysis of social structures affecting the failure of development projects (Case of Study: Water Pumping Station Project in Pasar Village, Hersin)
parisa Moradian Farahnaz Rostami shahpar geravandiIn the past decades, several development schemes have been implemented in the country, one of the most important projects, the development plan of orchards and the network of pumping stations for water. Due to the fact that many of these schemes have failed, the present MoreIn the past decades, several development schemes have been implemented in the country, one of the most important projects, the development plan of orchards and the network of pumping stations for water. Due to the fact that many of these schemes have failed, the present study was conducted with qualitative approach using a grounded theory to the pathology of the project of the water pumping station of Harsin Pasar village. Data were collected using a deep interview, focus group and direct observation of the researcher, which analyzed the data in two stages of open and axial coding. The study population comprised this research expert involved in the project and the exploitation of Pasar village. snowball in the second stage to achieve theoretical saturation and conceptual richness of interest. The failure of the project was the main issue and phenomenon that researchers had repeatedly dealt with in reviewing and refreshing their field notes. The intervention conditions (the benefit of local authorities and powerful, lack of attention to the diversity of income during the implementation of the project, the contractor's commitment to their obligations, the lack of attention to the needs, demands and values of the local population and the prolongation of the project), Strategies (changing the Advisory team, changing the executive team and using the experienced staff, The change of design pattern from gardening to horticulture and agriculture compilation pattern and the consequences were analyzed Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
3 - A Critique on the Qualia Denial: A Study of Dennett’s View
Abolqasem Hashemi Ahmadreza Hemmati MoghaddamMental qualities, in the minimal and intuitive concept, is intrinsic and phenomenal characters of experience called “qualia”. Perceptual states, bodily sensation, emotional states, and quasi-perceptual states are usually considered as examples of mental stat MoreMental qualities, in the minimal and intuitive concept, is intrinsic and phenomenal characters of experience called “qualia”. Perceptual states, bodily sensation, emotional states, and quasi-perceptual states are usually considered as examples of mental states that are included qualia. Daniel Dennett, an American philosopher, denies the existence of qualia using the intuition pump designed by him. His view is known as “Reductionism of Qualia”. In these tests, Dennett calls history of qualia into question and reveals the contradictions that may exist in qualia. In contrast to Dennett, philosophers such as Tye, unlike Dennett, argues that reverse quality is possible to exist and William Webb considers the technological advances as the cause of empirical confirmation of qualia reverse. In the end, a third perspective is formulated by the authors to Dennett’s arguments according to which every conscious experience has characters which may be specific to a person: Characters that are necessary to a complete explanation of a phenomenon. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
4 - Investigating Different Strategies to Reduce Energy Consumption in Saleh Abad Irrigation Network
Alireza Soltani Hamzehali alizadeh Jafar mamizadeh javad sarvarianBackground and Aim: Today, the dependency between energy consumption and water use has become an important issue in pressurized irrigation networks. In addition to the problem of water scarcity, rising energy costs are also a challenge for the agricu MoreBackground and Aim: Today, the dependency between energy consumption and water use has become an important issue in pressurized irrigation networks. In addition to the problem of water scarcity, rising energy costs are also a challenge for the agricultural sector. The objective of this study was to investigate different strategies to reduce energy consumption in the pressurized irrigation network of Saleh Abad.Method: For this purpose, firstly, minor changes affecting energy consumption including change in diameter of lateral pipe were evaluated. In this level, evaluated scenarios were lateral pipe diameters in mm 63 and 75. Hydraulic analysis of irrigation network was calculated using WaterGems software and energy consumption in different pumping stations was calculated using energy audit. In the second level of evaluation, four scenarios were defined to reduce energy consumption in the irrigation networks by structural changes in the irrigation network based on energy audit strategies, critical point control, network sectoring and pumping station management. The scenarios were (i) network sectoring without changing the main canal line, (ii) change of main canal line to pipe line, (iii) implementation a new first pipe line for a part of the network that is irrigated by gravity water, and (iv) elimination of the secondary pumping station by increasing the primary pumping station head. In the scenarios i, ii and iii, the part of the irrigation network lands was determined that could be irrigated without the need for a secondary pumping station. In this scenarios, the energy saving was calculated in a new condition by varying the type or number of pumps in secondary pumping stations to provide upstream discharge and head requirements.Results:The results showed that according to the topographic conditions of the network, changing the diameter of the laterals had no effect on saving energy. Also, the results showed that by network sectoring and applying scenarios(i), (ii), and (iv), the irrigated area without the need for a secondary pumping station were 610.8, 1591.5 and 1621.8 hectares, the energy saving in secondary pumping station were 14.6, 46.1 and 47.4% and the total energy consumed in network were 3.9, 12.4 and 12.7%, respectively. In the scenario iv, the primary pumping station was optimized. The result indicated that if the pumps type of the primary pumping station were changed and the water reservoir was implemented in higher level, it would be possible to eliminate the secondary pumping stations. In this case, the total area network (2820 ha) was irrigated without the secondary pump station and the energy saving was 8.46%.Conclusion: The results of this study showed that changing the diameter of the lateral pipe had no significant effect on the energy consumption of the network. Also, the results showed that network sectoring and changes in main pipeline, it is possible to save up to 3121 MWh in the annual energy consumption of the network. Therefore, it is suggested that, network sectoring based on the input pressure of hydrants and the use of gravity, in the design of irrigation and drainage networks, considered as an effective solution to reduce energy consumption. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
5 - Mass Transfer Kinetics of Combined Infrared-Hot Air Drying of Pumpkin
S. H. Hosseini Ghaboos S. M. Seyedain Ardabili M. Kashaninejad G. H. Assadi M. AlamiIntroduction: Pumpkin is a good source of carotene, water-soluble vitamins and amino acids. Pumpkin can be processed into flour which has a longer shelf-life. Pumpkin flour is used because of its highly-desirable flavour, sweetness and deep yellow orange –red colo MoreIntroduction: Pumpkin is a good source of carotene, water-soluble vitamins and amino acids. Pumpkin can be processed into flour which has a longer shelf-life. Pumpkin flour is used because of its highly-desirable flavour, sweetness and deep yellow orange –red colour. In this study, kinetic modeling of pumpkin drying in an infrared-hot air dryer was investigated. Materials and Methods: The effect of radiation lamp power at three levels of 204, 238 and 272W, hot air temperature at three levels of 55, 65 and 75 °C and samples thickness at two levels of 0.5 and 0.7 cm on time and drying kinetics and moisture diffusion coefficient during drying of pumpkin in a completely randomized design were evaluated. Results: The effect of radiation power and hot air temperature on the drying process of pumpkin is significant. Increase in infrared lamp power from 204 to 272 W and increase in hot air temperature from 55 to75°C reduced pumpkin drying time 15.05 and 37.43 %, respectively. Effective diffusivity coefficient of pumpkin moisture was between 9.2×10-10 to 3.3×10-9 m2/s. Conclusion: 272 W power, 75 °C temperature and 0.5 cm thickness were the best condition for drying of pumpkin. The effects of infrared heat power and hot air temperature on effective diffusivity coefficient changes were investigated and it was found that the effective diffusivity coefficient increased by increasing heat source power and air temperature. In modeling of pumpkin drying process, Newton model is a better match with the experimental results as compared to other models. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
6 - Investigating the Effect of Different Factors on Thermal Conductivity and Specific Heat of Pumpkin Puree
Z. DidarIntroduction: For the precise designing of thermal processes, determination of thermal properties of foods is necessary. The specific heat and thermal conductivity are the two main thermal properties of food products. Materials and Methods: In this research, the thermal MoreIntroduction: For the precise designing of thermal processes, determination of thermal properties of foods is necessary. The specific heat and thermal conductivity are the two main thermal properties of food products. Materials and Methods: In this research, the thermal properties of pumpkin purée in five levels of moisture (25, 30, 35, 40 and 45 percent), five temperature levels (25, 35, 45, 50 and 55ºC), different percentages of salt (0, 0.5, 1, 1.5 and 2%) and different percentages of sugar (0, 10, 15, 20 and 25%) were investigated. Results: The experiments showed that temperature and moisture caused increases in specific heat and thermal conductivity in pumpkin puree whereas the addition of salt and sugar caused reductions in both specific heat and thermal conductivity of pumpkin puree. In order to predict the effect of moisture, temperature, salt and sugar content on thermal properties of pumpkin puree, regression modes are used. Coefficient of Determination (R2) of specific heat capacity for temperature, moisture content, salt content and sugar content were 0.920, 0.941, 0.949 and 0.961, respectively. Coefficient of Determination (R2) of thermal conductivity for temperature, moisture content, salt content and sugar content were 0.851, 0.962, 0.956 and 0.979, respectively. Conclusion: Temperature and moisture content have direct effect on thermal properties while salt and sugar contents have reverse effect on thermal properties of pumpkin puree. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
7 - The Effect of Balangu Seed Gum (Lallemantia royleana) on Improving the Physicochemical, Textural and Sensory Characteristics of Sponge Cake Enriched with Pumpkin Powder
B. Ganji Vatan S.H. Hosseini GhaboosIntroduction: Pumpkin powder is used because of its high nutritional value, highly desirableflavor, sweetness and appropriate color to improve the quality of bakery products and alltypes of cakes. In this study, Balangu seed gum was used to improve the characteristics o MoreIntroduction: Pumpkin powder is used because of its high nutritional value, highly desirableflavor, sweetness and appropriate color to improve the quality of bakery products and alltypes of cakes. In this study, Balangu seed gum was used to improve the characteristics ofpumpkin cake.Materials and Methods: Firstly, the pumpkin cake batter containing different percentages ofBalangu seed gum (at four levels 0, 0.5, 1, and 1.5%) was prepared and their viscosity wasmeasured. The cakes were then cooked and the physicochemical properties including weight,ash, moisture, volume, density, crumb color, texture and sensory characteristics weremeasured.Results: Pumpkin cakes batter was a non-newtonian fluid and shear-dependent and timedependenttype. By increasing Balangu seed gum percentage in pumpkin cake formulation,the viscosity of batter increased (p<0.05). By increasing the Balangu seed gum from 0 to 1.5%, pumpkin cakes batters viscosity at shear rate of 40 s-1 ware increased from 16.93 to 32.21Pa.s (p<0.05). The moisture content and volume of cakes were increased by increasing gumpercentage (p<0.05). The increases of Balangu gum increased the brightness of cakes due toincreasing volume, in addition yellow colour of the samples decreased (p<0.05).Conclusion: The increase in gum content, the firmness of the cakes was reduced, but theamount of springness, cohesiveness and resilience of the cakes increased significantly due tothe formation of prper and soft texture by gum in the cakes (p<0.05). The L*, a* and b*indexes for sample containing 1.5 % gum were 85.25, 3.491 and 50.25, respectively. Pumpkincake containing 1.5% Balangu seed gum had significantly more acceptability than othersamples (p<0.05). Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
8 - Development of Traditional Date Cookie Formulation Using Pumpkin Puree
S. Kia S. H. Hosseini Ghaboos -
Open Access Article
9 - Hydrogeological Assessment of the Groundwater Heat Pump (GWHP) System
Hajar Barzegar Hadi Jafari Seyed Majid HashemianBackground and objective: Groundwater heat pump (GWHP) system that uses the constant temperature of the groundwater as the source of the clean and renewable energy for heating and cooling, is applied as a strategy for energy saving and the CO2 reduction. In this techniq MoreBackground and objective: Groundwater heat pump (GWHP) system that uses the constant temperature of the groundwater as the source of the clean and renewable energy for heating and cooling, is applied as a strategy for energy saving and the CO2 reduction. In this technique, groundwater is extracted by pumping wells, passed through the heat exchanger and then returned to aquifer through the injection shafts. This research is aimed to assess the Groundwater Heat Pump (GWHP) System from hydrogeological point of view. Method: Regarding the mathematical similarities between transport of the heat and mass in porous media, the applied computer code of MT3DMS in mass transport modelling, was used in this study for simulation of the heat transfer in the groundwater system to assess the GWHP from hydrogeological viewpoint. Finding: The results show that a thermal plume is developed around the injection well due to the energy exchanges in GWHP system. This plume is regarded as an indicator of the impact of the injected water temperature on the underground source. Its extent and direction which are directly affected by the hydrogeological parameters is not fair from the heat transport aspect and finally the performance of the GWHP system. Discussion and Conclusion: Modelling results clearly show that with the change in hydraulic conductivity in relation to the type of the sediments in porous media, hydraulic gradient and porosity of aquifer, the extent of the thermal plume is changed, expecting impacts on functionality of the GWHP system. The results of the study can be used in utilization of the GWHP system in the country, of course after the technical-and-economic justifications. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
10 - Evaluation of sharp-interface simulation of saltwater intrusion into the multi-layered coastal aquifers exposed to pumping
S. Sadjad Mehdizadeh Freydoon VafaieBackground and Objective: Population growth and scarcity of coastal freshwater resources have increased the stresses on many coastal aquifers, leading to aquifer storage decline and salwater intrusion (SWI). Investigation of coastal aquifers routinely involves the appli MoreBackground and Objective: Population growth and scarcity of coastal freshwater resources have increased the stresses on many coastal aquifers, leading to aquifer storage decline and salwater intrusion (SWI). Investigation of coastal aquifers routinely involves the application of SWI models, which can be divided into two categories, namely sharp-interface and dispersive-interface approaches. There is no mixing between freshwater and saltwater at sharp-interface approaches. This makes them computationally more efficient while dispersive-modeling approaches are more numerically challenging, but allow for freshwater-saltwater mixing. Method: Most coastal aquifers comprise overlying sequences of geological strata, resulting in SWI characteristics that may differ significantly to those of homogeneous cases. The layered coastal aquifers have received significantly less attention than the more simplified single-layer case, despite the fact that stratified aquifers are widespread. In this study, a sharp-interface approach (named as SHI-SWIM) was developed using FORTRAN programming code. The model is first validated and then applied for the simulation of sand-tank experiment and field-scale multi-layered aquifers exposed to pumping in order to evaluate the strength and limitation of the developed model. Findings: SHI-SWIM model produced better result for higher pumping rates. Additionally, the results of fully penetrating wells and closer position of well to shoreline matched better with the dispersive modeling outputs. In real cases, where the saltwater may wend a long distance toward the well screen, the sharp-interface modeling weakly matched with the dispersive modeling, specially in terms of well salinities. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
11 - Exergy Analysis of Geothermal Heat Pump in Larijan
Hesamoddin Salarian Homan Naderi Morteza HosainzadeBackground and Objective: This study aims to investigate a Ground-Coupled Heat Pump system with vertical U-bend heat exchanger which can provide the energy needed from the depths of earth. Exergy of the system was analyzed and the performance efficiency and coefficient MoreBackground and Objective: This study aims to investigate a Ground-Coupled Heat Pump system with vertical U-bend heat exchanger which can provide the energy needed from the depths of earth. Exergy of the system was analyzed and the performance efficiency and coefficient were obtained. Method:In Larijan village, due to hot springs in the area, exergy analyses of two Ground-Coupled Heat Pump systems with vertical U-bend and open loop heat exchangers were compared. Energy, exergy, entropy and enthalpy equations of both Ground-Coupled Heat Pump systems were applied and results were presented based on geographic and climatic conditions of Larijan region. Results:Moreover, it was found that the maximum exergy losses in both systems occurres in the fan condenser. Conclusion: The results show that, due to higher temperatures (the temperature of the ground or the hot spring), the performance coefficient and the efficiency of geothermal heat pump system with the open loop heat exchangers are higher. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
12 - Technical-Environmental Economical Feasibility Study of Geothermal Heat Pumps
Farideh Atabi Seyed Mohammad Reza Heibati Setareh MehrkhouAbstractConsidering the scarcity of natural fossil energy and dispersion of pollutant gases from their products,it seems utilizing cheaper and cleaner energy sources such as geothermal energy are vital.One of the applications of geothermal energy is geothermal pumps. Th MoreAbstractConsidering the scarcity of natural fossil energy and dispersion of pollutant gases from their products,it seems utilizing cheaper and cleaner energy sources such as geothermal energy are vital.One of the applications of geothermal energy is geothermal pumps. The compressor of geothermalpumps utilizes the thermal energy of the earth to provide thermal load and hot water for the buildingsby consuming electricity. There are two most common geothermal heat pumps including a systemwith vertical and horizontal ground heat exchanger.In the present study, in ventilation calculations, the required thermal load of a typical four-story 12-unit residential building located in the East of Tehran was calculated separately based on the actualoperational data. Each story has an area of 565 square meters. According to the thermal properties ofsoil and the annual average temperature of the abovementioned area, the appropriate geothermal heatpump was selected. Subsequently, three scenarios were created through Perform software on the basisof the primary costs of purchase and installment of geothermal heat pump and its electricityconsumption. The cost-effectiveness of the studied system with that of the previous one was comparedtechnically, economically and environmentally on the basis of carbon credit costs in the world market.The results of this study indicate that the application of geothermal heat pumps decreases the totalemission of pollutants across implementing the project by 3759 tons of CO2 equivalent. Furthermore,67,000 giga joules of natural gas will be saved at the end of the project. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
13 - Investigating the effective parameters and various methods of computing the borehole depth of vertical ground heat exchanger of geothermal heat pump
Setareh MehrkhouIn geothermal heat pumps, the heat exchange with ground is performed by the ground heat exchanger. In fact, the ground heat exchanger is installed to extract or inject the thermal energy from/to the earth. The borehole depth of this heat exchanger has a major effect on MoreIn geothermal heat pumps, the heat exchange with ground is performed by the ground heat exchanger. In fact, the ground heat exchanger is installed to extract or inject the thermal energy from/to the earth. The borehole depth of this heat exchanger has a major effect on the system investment cost and operation; thus, this parameter must be computed with a high accuracy. There are various methods to compute the borehole depth of ground heat exchanger. The geothermal heat pump capacity and the regional soil characteristics are the main parameters which affect the borehole depth and size of the ground heat exchanger. In this paper, the important soil characteristics are first introduced. Then, the main five methods for computing the borehole depth of ground heat exchanger are investigated with their effective parameters. Finally, these methods are compared and their application priority is determined. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
14 - Investigation of NorA, norB, and norC efflux pumps in Staphylococcus aureus resistant to Fluoroquinolone Isolated from Urinary Tract Infection
Mona Azadikhah Mohsen Zargar Razieh NazariStaphylococci are rapidly resistant to most antibiotics and cause many therapeutic problems. Of these, the efflux pumps are the most important cause of resistance to antibiotics, and these pumps are the core of the inherent inflammatory system of the nor gene. Staphyloc MoreStaphylococci are rapidly resistant to most antibiotics and cause many therapeutic problems. Of these, the efflux pumps are the most important cause of resistance to antibiotics, and these pumps are the core of the inherent inflammatory system of the nor gene. Staphylococcus aureus, norA, norB, and norC are chromosomal genes that encode these pumps, expressing high levels of multi-drug resistance genes can produce resistance to quinolones. The purpose of this study was to investigate the presence of norA B, C genes in the presence of germs in the isolates of Staphylococcus aureus isolated from the samples of urinary tract infection. In this study, samples from 300 urine samples of patients referred to the laboratories in north of Tehran were collected and identified 100 samples of Staphylococcus aureus. After identification of resistant strains of fluoroquinolone family antibiotics, DNA extraction was performed to confirm the presence of norA, norB and nor C genes by PCR reaction. The results were analyzed by electrophoresis on agarose gel. Of the 100 isolated isolates of Staphylococcus aureus, 60 isolates were resistant to the ciprofloxacin disc, 30 isolates were resistant to neurofloxacin and 10 isolates compared to furosemide. Of the 100 isolates, 30 isolates possessed a norB resistance gene, 20 had norC gene and 20 had norA gene. Also, 10 isolates containing all three genes and 15 isolates, had 2 genes from the 3 genes studied. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
15 - Using a phenotypic method to confirm the presence of the efflux pump associated with resistance to ciprofloxacin in Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolated from skin samples
Ali Rahmati Mohammad Reza zolfagharyIntroduction One of the most important causes of nosocomial infections in patients with skin infections is Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The occurrence of antibiotic resistance with various mechanisms is one of the problems in treating these patients. The main role in the de MoreIntroduction One of the most important causes of nosocomial infections in patients with skin infections is Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The occurrence of antibiotic resistance with various mechanisms is one of the problems in treating these patients. The main role in the development of multiple resistance to antimicrobial drugs is played by the MexAB efflux pumps. The aim of this study was to evaluate the presence of the MexAB efflux pumps in the Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolated from skin samples. Materials and Methods: In this study 200 swab specimens from patients with skin infections were collected in Qom hospitals. Pseudomonas aeruginosa specimens were confirmed by biochemical tests. The drug susceptibility pattern was compared to ciprofloxacin by disk diffusion method and the phenotypic study of the effects of efflux pumps was done using cartwheel method . Results: In this study, 89 (45%) samples were infected with Pseudomonas aeruginosa, of which 19 cases (21%) were resistant to ciprofloxacin and more than 54% of the presence of the pump in the Pseudomonas aeruginosa more than 54% of the presence of the pump in the Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Conclusion: the presence of more than 54% of the presence of the pump in the Pseudomonas aeruginosa, is important in order to suggest a suitable therapeutic model for the infected patients. Keywords: Pseudomonas aeruginosa, skin infections, efflux pump Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
16 - Optimization of random scheduling combining wind farm and storage pumps in the electricity market
Mehdi Parham Saeedullah MortazaviOne of the basic characteristics of wind energy is its many changes and prediction problems that can cause problems even in short-term power grid planning. One solution to this problem is to use a water storage pump that can compensate for the energy imbalance of a sys MoreOne of the basic characteristics of wind energy is its many changes and prediction problems that can cause problems even in short-term power grid planning. One solution to this problem is to use a water storage pump that can compensate for the energy imbalance of a system in the event of a shortage or increase in wind energy. In this paper, the optimization of wind farm and storage pump combination planning in the electricity market has been done. The optimization algorithm is modeled in two stages with random market prices and wind energy production. The simulation results show the efficiency of the proposed model in network planning to meet the needs of subscribers. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
17 - Field Performance of Inlet Liner for Centrifugal Slurry Pump Manufactured by NR/PBR Nanocomposite
Puya Afsharjahanshahi Seyed Yousef Ahmadi-Brooghani Mehdi Raghebi Mohammad Ali Karimi -
Open Access Article
18 - Redesign and Accuracy Improvement of Disposable Infusion Pumps
sajjad pakzad ahad shah hoseini Hossein Rashid Myab Amirhossein Vazirpanah -
Open Access Article
19 - Vibration Analysis of Rotating Disk Carrying Annular Concentrated Masses in Turbo-pump System
Behrooz Shahriari Mostafa Nazemizadeh A. M. Shirvani -
Open Access Article
20 - Effect of the TestPUMP supplementation on serum creatine kinase, lactate dehydrogenase and high sensitive C reactive protein levels in male fighters
Siamak Rezaei Khoshkzary Reza Nuri -
Open Access Article
21 - Relationship between River Flow, Rainfall and Groundwater pumpage in Mikkes Basin (Morocco)
K. BelhassanThis paper investigates the relationship between river flow, rainfall and groundwater pumpage in the Mikkes stream during the period 1968-2009. The Mikkes basin is located in the north center of Morocco and consists of three different zones that represent diversified ge MoreThis paper investigates the relationship between river flow, rainfall and groundwater pumpage in the Mikkes stream during the period 1968-2009. The Mikkes basin is located in the north center of Morocco and consists of three different zones that represent diversified geologies. This basin includes a phreatic and confined aquifer in Saïs basin and a shallow aquifer in the Tabular Middle Atlas. Analysis of monthly medium flows between 1968 and 2009 shows an approximate oceanic system which is characterized by two hydrological seasons. First a period of high waters in winters which is conditioned by the pluviometric contributions and the second is a low water period in summer which is conditioned by evapotranspiration. The mode of this River can be called a pluvio- evaporal type. The high deficit of the Mikkes stream (between 1968-1979 and 1980-2009) is about 76% and could be the combined effect of drought and groundwater pumpage. Water table variations could be conditioned by climatic changes and regional geology. Actually, the annual water table variations show a drop in ground water levels, which is due to the combined effect of reduction in precipitation that has reduced the natural recharge of groundwater, and the increase in pumping which is increasing year by year for more than 80 years in this region. In addition, free-water tables are much more susceptible to pumpage when compared to the confined aquifer. Thus, the water table and piezometric heads of the Mikkes basin do not demonstrate a uniform sensitivity to the drought. High rainfall between 1995 and 1997 had affected the groundwater levels of Mikkes with an increase in piezometric level. The monthly piezometric variations of free-water table are characterized by a seasonal operation: groundwater recharge and discharge. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
22 - Intelligent Identification of Centrifugal Pump Damage by Combining Methods Independent Component Analysis and Particle Swarm Optimization
Mohammad sadegh Aalaei Mehdi ShekarzadehDue to the progress of technical and engineering sciences and the more complex equipment and machinery in recent years, the maintenance and repair technology based on condition monitoring and defect estimation, under different titles such as performance-based logistic ( MoreDue to the progress of technical and engineering sciences and the more complex equipment and machinery in recent years, the maintenance and repair technology based on condition monitoring and defect estimation, under different titles such as performance-based logistic (PBL) and condition-based maintenance (CBM) is considered. These methods are used to prevent human and financial losses and to increase the production rate. This thesis presents an intelligent troubleshooting system to diagnose centrifugal pump-bearing faults. As a result, to design this intelligent troubleshooting system, a test set including shaft, bearings and real support conditions was designed and implemented in the laboratory. In this setup, three bearings with Normal wear and fault conditions (defect on the outer race) were examined, and vibration data were obtained. Then, the vibration data in extraction time and statistical features were calculated. After that, these features were used as classifier input data for intelligent troubleshooting. To identify the defect, the independent component analysis method was used. Also, the accuracy of fault detection was improved by using the particle batch optimization method. Finally, it was found that the statistical feature of Percentile can detect bearing defects by combining independent component analysis and particle swarm optimization methods. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
23 - Dynamic modeling of a specific electro-pump liquid-propellant rocket
Davoud Ramesh Hassan Naseh Hadiseh Karimaei Seyedeh Fatemeh Mirmohammadi Seyed Mohammad Javad Hashemi HomamiThis research aims to model the nonlinear dynamics of the space propulsion system equipped with an electro-pump. For modeling, this system includes the combustion chamber, fuel and oxidizer tanks, and the corresponding pressurization system. A set of governing equations MoreThis research aims to model the nonlinear dynamics of the space propulsion system equipped with an electro-pump. For modeling, this system includes the combustion chamber, fuel and oxidizer tanks, and the corresponding pressurization system. A set of governing equations has been modeled in the Simulink of MATLAB software. The results of the modeling including changes in the angular velocity versus the time, changes in combustion chamber pressure versus the time, and changes in the mass flow rate of the fuel and oxidizer to the combustion chamber versus the time, are presented. In the end, the obtained results are compared with the results of the available engine and in addition to validating the results, it is possible to confirm and validate the performance of the electro-pump in a liquid fuel engine. The results showed that the angular velocity rate, the average acceleration rate of the combustion chamber, the average flow rate of the oxidizer to the combustion chamber and the average flow rate of the fuel to the combustion chamber obtained from the simulation and the available reference have a maximum error of 20%. The amount of difference in the conceptual design stage is free of problems. In addition, the trend of the graphs is similar. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
24 - Reson of sand production on drinking wells Islamshahr town
محمود Salari مجتبی SayadiSand production is defined as the extraction of amounts of fine grain sand and silt while drilling andexploitations of wells. This phenomenon has resulted in quantity, quality, engineering, and environmentalproblems within parts of the country. The villages of Islamshah MoreSand production is defined as the extraction of amounts of fine grain sand and silt while drilling andexploitations of wells. This phenomenon has resulted in quantity, quality, engineering, and environmentalproblems within parts of the country. The villages of Islamshahr province are among such regions withinthe country which have been facing this problem in recent years. The goal of this study is to introduce thisissue and to explore the reasons, and quantify sand production in 10 fresh water wells within the villages ofIslamshahrprovince. In this respect, according to the measurements made within five consecutive cycles ina day(starting point, one, four, eight, and twelve hours) using well head facilities from 1stBahman 1389untillAban 1390, during which it was proved that HassanabadKhalese, Malekabad, and Shatereh villageslocated in the southern part of the province do exhibit fine grain sediments which as with the start ofpumping and after 4 hours, the sand production reduces ; however after 12 hours of the starting point, sandproduction increases. Although within the northern, and north western regions of Islamshahr province (forinstance Ahmadabad Mostofi, FiroozBahram, and Goldasteh,…) which exhibit coarse sediments, as thestarting point and after four hours, sand production deemed to be major while after 12 hours of pumping ,this amount decreases. Therefore it is recommended to reduce sand production by use of the natural welldevelopments based on proper leaching, pumping tests using controlled motor cycles, artificialdevelopment including the implementation of sandy gravel pack, and double gravel pack, along with duallayering of wells, and application of polymer pipes, and sieving filters. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
25 - Introduce a new building cooling system structure using solar energy to optimize energy conversion losses
Mohammad Kazemi Bidhendi -
Open Access Article
26 - Numerical simulation of flow fluid in cooling pump and investigation of effect of flow behavior on pump structure
gholamhasan salek kouros Nekoufar seyed arash seyed shams taleghaniIn industrial plants such as gas refinery, sustainable production is a top priority. The cooling pump plays an essential role in a gas refinery. If the pump is out of service (and if the replacement pump is not ready), the refinery will be shut down immediately. Therefo MoreIn industrial plants such as gas refinery, sustainable production is a top priority. The cooling pump plays an essential role in a gas refinery. If the pump is out of service (and if the replacement pump is not ready), the refinery will be shut down immediately. Therefore, the sensitivity of this equipment is very critical in terms of operation and process and should be maintained in the shortest possible time. The status of this equipment is monitored regularly using vibration technique. In a period of time, after the vibration analysis, a decision was made to modify the base plate of the pump as well as to reduce the stress; piping arrangement of the pump was redesigned and modified. These modifications resulted in a reduction in vibration rate from 8 mm / s to 5 mm under new conditions. Also, in order to investigate the effect of fluid behavior on pump performance, in a separate project, flow fluid was simulated by computational fluid dynamics (CFD), within the impeller and pump casing. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
27 - Effect of Inhibitor Carbonyl Cyanide 3-Chlorophenylhydrazone(CCCP) on the Minimum Inhibitory Concentration of Aminoglycoside and efflux pump activity determination in Acinetobacter baumannii Multiple- Drug Resistant isolates
Sahar Honarmand Jahromy Jeyran Fathi Rad Fatemeh NoorbakhshAcietobacter baumanni is an important cause of nosocomial infections. This bacterium is resistant to many commonly-used antibiotics and multidrug resistance is often responsible for the failure of antibiotic therapy. Numerous mechanisms may lead to this resistance and t MoreAcietobacter baumanni is an important cause of nosocomial infections. This bacterium is resistant to many commonly-used antibiotics and multidrug resistance is often responsible for the failure of antibiotic therapy. Numerous mechanisms may lead to this resistance and the active efflux pumps is an important factor for mutidrug resistance in A. baumannii .Today aminoglycosides are important antibiotics used for the treatment of in A. baumannii serious infections.The aim of this study was investigation of efflux pupms activity for aminoglycoside resistance among clinical isolates of A. baumannii . 55 strains of Acinetobacter bumanni were isolated from clinical specimens of patients hospitalized in Milad hospital and identified by biochemical tests. Antibiotic resistance profile of strains to 11 antibiotics was determined by disc diffusion method according to CLSI standard and MDR strains were defined. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of amikacin and gentamicin was determined before and after treatment by efflux inhibitor carbonyl cyanide 3-chlorophenylhydrazone (CCCP). The highest resistance was to ceftazidim and cefotaxim (98.2%) and lowest resistance was to gentamicin(62%). Resistance to amikacin was 74.5%. The prevalence of MDR strains was 98% Among amikacin and gentamycin resistant isolates 4(9.3%) and 17(50%) strains reported as actively efflux pumps. One strain for both antibiotics had efflux pump activity. The efflux pump is more active for gentamicin tha amikacin among A. baumannii isolates. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
28 - Investigating Water Supply System Electro-Mechanical Equipments Problems: A Case Study of Ethiopia
Dessie Tarekegn Bantelay -
Open Access Article
29 - Comparison of the effect of hydroethanolic and aqueous solvents on functional potential and evaluation of active compounds in pumpkin extract (Cucurbita moschata) by GC/MS method
Z. Latifi S. Abediankenari Aliakbar MashayekhPumpkin (Cucurbita moschata) is one of the vegetables that has high nutritional value and bioactive compounds. The aim of this study was to compare the effect of hydroethanolic and aqueous solvents on the functional potential and to investigate the bioactive compounds o MorePumpkin (Cucurbita moschata) is one of the vegetables that has high nutritional value and bioactive compounds. The aim of this study was to compare the effect of hydroethanolic and aqueous solvents on the functional potential and to investigate the bioactive compounds of Pumpkin extract. For functional evaluation of extracts, the amount of ascorbic acid, total phenol and flavonoids, antioxidant capacity were performed by DPPH and FRAP methods and also the chemical compounds in the extracts were identified by GC/MS. The results showed highest levels of ascorbic acid, total phenol and flavonoids in the hydroethanolic extract were 98.66±13.29 mg/100g, 1.663±0.004 mg GA/100g and 0.381±0.01 mg QU/100g, respectively. Hydroethanolic extract showed the highest ability to inhibit DPPH radicals compared to aqueous extract in all prepared concentrations; so that hydroethanolic extract with a concentration of 800 μg/ml with 61.866% inhibition had the highest inhibitory properties. Detected chemical compounds in hydroethanolic and aqueous extracts using GC/MS were identified 16 and 7 chemical compounds, respectively, when the highest compound content in hydroethanolic extract equal to 34.86767% related to D-erythro-pentose, 2-deoxy and the aqueous extract was related to 5,2-dichlorophenol (74,2053%). The results of this study suggest the use of hydroethanolic solvent for higher extraction of bioactive compounds from pumpkin. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
30 - The effect of pumpkin seeds hydroalcoholic extract and endurance training on mitochondrial biogenesis markers and DNA damage in uterine tissue in rats toxicated by hydrogen peroxide
Shahrzad Asghari mohammadali azarbayjani maghsoud peeri hasan matin homaeeAbstractIntroduction: The imbalance in the prooxidant-antioxidant ratio causes uterine tissue damage. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of Pumpkin seed and aerobic training on mitochondrial biogenesis markers and DNA damage in uterine tissue in rats toxic MoreAbstractIntroduction: The imbalance in the prooxidant-antioxidant ratio causes uterine tissue damage. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of Pumpkin seed and aerobic training on mitochondrial biogenesis markers and DNA damage in uterine tissue in rats toxicated by hydrogen peroxide. Method: To implementation of this experimental research, 42 male wistar rats randomly were divided into 7 groups. All groups received 100 mg/kg body weight of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) for 14 days intraperitoneal. Rats in supplemented groups received hydrophilic the rats received supplemental hydroalcoholic extract of pumpkin seeds at doses of 1 and 2 mg/kg body weight per day by gavage method. Aerobic training was performed on a treadmill at a speed of 23 m/min, 30 min/day, 5 days/week for eight weeks. 24 hours after the last training session, rat uterine tissue was collected. Data were analyzed using by Independent T-test, two-way ANOVA and Bonferroni post hoc test at P<0.05. Results: Combined intervention of pumpkin seed extract with aerobic exercise significantly increased methyl guanine levels and oxidant-prooxidant balance (PAB), as well as significantly decreased adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in uterine tissue (P<0.05).Conclusion: According to the results, supplementation of pumpkin seed with aerobic exercise can have a greater effect on improving mitochondrial biogenesis and reducing uterine tissue DNA damage. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
31 - Phytochemical evaluation and antioxidant activity of methanolic extracts of Momordica charantia L., Cucurbita pepo L. cultivar pumpkin, Ecballium elaterium (L.) A.Rich, Lagenaria siceraria L. cultivar Marankka
zaynab mohkami عزیزاله خیری mahdi tavakolizadeh esfahani Mohsen Sani Khani abas bahariABSTRACT This study was designed to investigate the total phenolic content, total flavonoid content and antioxidant activity of fruits methanolic extracts from Momordica charantia L., Ecballium elaterium (L.) A.Rich, Cucurbita pepo L. cultivar pumpkin, Lagenaria sicerar MoreABSTRACT This study was designed to investigate the total phenolic content, total flavonoid content and antioxidant activity of fruits methanolic extracts from Momordica charantia L., Ecballium elaterium (L.) A.Rich, Cucurbita pepo L. cultivar pumpkin, Lagenaria siceraria L. cultivar Marankka belonging to Cucurbitaceae family. For this purpose, a factorial experiment was conducted in a completely randomized design with three replications. The matured fruits were harvested from the research farm in Zanjan university during the September to December 2017. Phytochemical characteristics of total phenol content (Folin–Ciocalteu method), total flavonoid (Aluminum Chloride method) and antioxidant activity (DPPH method) were evaluated. The highest level of phenolic and flavonoid contents was recorded for the fruit methanolic extracts from the Ecballium elaterium (L.) and Momordica charantia L. , with 85/5 ± 3/5 mg GAE/g and 12.13 ± 0.8, respectively. The results of DPPH test showed that the methanolic extract of Momordica charantia exhibited potent activity (97.09 % ± 0.96), followed by Ecballium elaterium (87.8% ± 1.5) and the lowest antioxidant activity related to methanolic extract of pumpkin fruit (58/02 % ± 2.7). Furthermore, there was a strong correlation between flavonoids content and antioxidant activity (P = 0.87) and also there was a positive correlation between phenolic content and antioxidant activity (P = 0.54). Generally, the phytochemical analysis showed that, Ecballium and Karella extracts are rich in polyphenol compounds against other sspecies and can be used as food.drug- Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
32 - Development of Linguistic Rules Diagnosis of Failure in Centrifugal Pump for Use in Expert System
Morteza Khakzar Bafruei Reza Adiban -
Open Access Article
33 - The investigation on the anti-bacterial power of bioactive peptides obtained from enzymatic hydrolysis of pumpkin (Cucurbita pepo) oil cake protein
Elham Nor Mohamadi Alireza Sadeghi Mahonaki Donya Shahrampoor Morteza KhamiriNowadays a large part of microorganisms are going to become resistant against common antibiotics. In this study the effect of bioactive peptides obtained from enzymatic hydrolysis of pumpkin oil cake protein as natural anti-microbial agents was examined. In this researc MoreNowadays a large part of microorganisms are going to become resistant against common antibiotics. In this study the effect of bioactive peptides obtained from enzymatic hydrolysis of pumpkin oil cake protein as natural anti-microbial agents was examined. In this research pumpkin (Cucurbita pepo) oil cake protein was hydrolyzed by pepsin, trypsin and alcalase. Optimum treatments were selected based on DPPH radical scavenging activity and anti-microbial activity of total and diluted extracts (1/2, 1/4, 1/8 and 1/16) were evaluated against Listeria monocytogenes, Bacillus cereus, Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. peptides produced by 1% pepsin, 30 ˚C and 2h hydrolysis (P3012), 1% pepsin, 35 ˚C, 3.5h hydrolysis (P35135), 1% alcalase, 50 ˚C, 3.5h hydrolysis (A50135), 2% alcalase 50 ˚C, 3.5h hydrolysis (A50235), 1% trypsin, 35 ˚C, 5h hydrolysis (T3551) and 1% trypsin, 45 ˚C and 5h hydrolysis (T4551) were selected as optimum treatments. Total extracts of P3012, T4551 and A50135 showed an appropriate inhibitory effect on tested bacteria while total extract of T3551 had no inhibitory activity against pathogens. The minimum inhibitory concentration of P35135 was 1/2­ against Bacillus, 1/8­ against Escherichia and 1/16 against Listeria. Minimum inhibitory concentration of A50235 was 1/4 on Staphylococcus and Bacillus and1/8 against Listeria. Based on the results, enzymatic hydrolysis can be employed as an effective approach to produce natural anti-oxidative and anti-microbial agents. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
34 - Influential study of differential parameters in order to election of the type of special pumping stations and the suitable electric pumps
Roozbeh AGHA MAJIDI محمدجواد نصراصفهانیThe pumping station is a collection of pumps, driving forces and auxiliary equipment e.g., collector system, power supply system, and control and protection systems. Small pumping stations are usually designed in the simplest possible way for the ease of operation of au MoreThe pumping station is a collection of pumps, driving forces and auxiliary equipment e.g., collector system, power supply system, and control and protection systems. Small pumping stations are usually designed in the simplest possible way for the ease of operation of auxiliary equipment. However, as the capacity of the pumping station increases, the technical complexity and design of peripheral equipment increases, which requires its own design according to the conditions, type of work, and location of the project. The choice of the type of station building, the type and capacity of the main and reserve pumps, in accordance with the special conditions of each project are contingent upon the nature of the plan. This study evaluates the basics of designing pumping stations, taking into account the above-mentioned issues, focusing on the system of pumping and transferring water from Dasht Zozen to the central site of the water supply facilities of Sangan Industries. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
35 - Effect of Drought Stress on Some Growth Parameters and Several Biochemical Aspects in Two Pumpkin Species
Mozhgan Farzamisepehr Mahlagha Ghorbanli Zahra Tadji -
Open Access Article
36 - ارزیابی راندمان انرژی در ایستگاه های پمپاژ سامانه های آبیاری تحت فشار (مطالعه موردی: استان های قزوین و کرمانشاه)
حسن براتی محمدرضا خالدیان محمدحسن بیگلویی عاطفه پرورش ریزی -
Open Access Article
37 - Effect of Different Displacement Methods (Fishing Net and Fish Pump) on Blood Parameters of Sparus aurata
H. Najar hadavi Mohammad Kazemiyan H. EmadiThe aim of this study was to investigate the effect of fish displacement using fishing net and fish pump on the apparent characteristics and blood factors of Sparus aurata fishes in Tiyab Pran Qeshm workshop. The statistical population consisted of 1500 fish with an ave MoreThe aim of this study was to investigate the effect of fish displacement using fishing net and fish pump on the apparent characteristics and blood factors of Sparus aurata fishes in Tiyab Pran Qeshm workshop. The statistical population consisted of 1500 fish with an average weight of 10 g. In the control group, fish were kept calm and were not subjected to any tension and pressure. The second group consisted of a treatment in which the displacement was carried out using fishing net and the third group was the treatment in which a fish pump was used for transferring the fish. Regarding the hematological parameters, the highest number of red blood cells (1.49) and white blood cells (46.91) in cubic millimeters were recorded in fish samples displaced using the fish pump. Similarly, the maximum amount of lactate (58.66) and cortisol (1.32) in ng / ml, glucose (64.01 mg / dl) and chlorine (130.55 μm) were obtained in the treatment using the fish pump. The results of the study showed that the tensions that were introduced to the fish while using the fish pump were more compared with the treatment using fishing net (p <0.05). However, the use of the fish pump caused less mechanical damage and less fish mortality, and more fish could be displaced using this method and during transfer fish did not suffer from lack of oxygen, as they were in the water during the transfer, and received enough oxygen. Therefore, displacement of fish with a fish pump, taking into account the necessary measures to reduce stress, can be considered as reliable methods for transferring more fish from acceptable mechanical damage. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
38 - روش ارزیابی پتانسیل بهبود کارایی برای سیستم های گرمایش منطقه ای با تمرکز بر پمپ های سانتریفیوژ با سرعت متغیر
Egils Dzelzitis Deniss Pilscikovs -
Open Access Article
39 - Integrating Wind Farms and Pumped Storage Plants in Power System Unit Commitment Using Modified Particle Swarm Optimization
Hassan Siahkali -
Open Access Article
40 - Detection of efflux pump activity and gene expression among ciprofloxacin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus strains
Zahra Tavakoli Hassan Sahebjamee Leila Pishkar Zohreh Alimadadi Hassan Noorbazargan Amir MirzaieBackground & Objectives: Staphylococcus aureus is one of the important nosocomial infection agents. Recently, S. aureus strains have become resistant to ciprofloxacin and the efflux pump is considered as its contributor. Herein, we investigated the presence, express MoreBackground & Objectives: Staphylococcus aureus is one of the important nosocomial infection agents. Recently, S. aureus strains have become resistant to ciprofloxacin and the efflux pump is considered as its contributor. Herein, we investigated the presence, expression, and activity of efflux pump genes (norA and norB) among ciprofloxacin-resistant S. aureus isolates. Materials & Methods: A total of 250 clinical samples were subjected to isolation of S. aureus strains. The antibiotic resistance pattern was characterized and the presence and expression level of norA and norB genes was assessed using PCR test and real-time PCR test, respectively. Finally, active efflux pumps were detected in ciprofloxacin-resistant S. aureus strains using the ethidium bromide test.Results: Among total clinical samples, 50 S. aureus strains were recovered. Of this 12 samples (24%) were resistant to ciprofloxacin. Moreover, norA and norB genes were found in 100 % and 83% of ciprofloxacin-resistant isolates, respectively. All ciprofloxacin-resistant isolates exhibited active efflux pumps. Real-time PCR results revealed that the isolates are more resistant to ciprofloxacin having a high level of efflux pump gene expression.Conclusion: The results of this study showed that norA and norB efflux pump genes play an important role in resistance to ciprofloxacin in S. aureus strains. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
41 - Antibiotic resistance dependent on efflux pump in the isolates of clinical and environmental Acinetobacter baumannii
Marjan Shaheli Majid Baseri Salehi Nima BahadorBackground & Objectives: Members of Acinetobacter genus are normal flora and the causal agent of the opportunistic nosocomial infections. The aim of this study was to investigate the ability to acquire drug resistance through efflux pump mechanism in multidrug-resis MoreBackground & Objectives: Members of Acinetobacter genus are normal flora and the causal agent of the opportunistic nosocomial infections. The aim of this study was to investigate the ability to acquire drug resistance through efflux pump mechanism in multidrug-resistant Acinetobacter spp. and the role of PAβN (Phenyl Arginin β naphtyamid) as an efflux pump inhibitor. Materials & Methods: In the cross-sectional descriptive study 83 clinical isolates and 62 environmental isolates were collected. Identification of the isolated bacteria was carried out by standard biochemical experiments and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) using specific primers of 16S rRNA and 16S-23S rRNA. Antibiotic susceptibility tests were conducted through disc diffusion and MIC test based on CLSI guidelines. The activity of the efflux pump was evaluated using the PaβN, and the adeABC gene frequency was assessed by PCR. Results: Of the total of the samples evaluated, 56 (67.47%) clinical isolates and 34 (54.84%) environmental isolates were identified as Acinetobacter spp. In accordance with the results of the antibiogram test, 100% of the isolates were resistant to cefotaxime and ceftriaxone. Only 7.13% of the clinical isolates and 5.89% of the environmental isolates were not multidrug-resistant (MDR). Prevalence of the adeB was 69.60%, 82.14%, and 76.80% in the clinical isolates and 50%, 85.30%, and 73.50% in the environmental isolates, respectively. Furthermore, tetracycline MIC was decreased in all resistant isolates in the presence of PAβN. Conclusion: The results showed that the efflux pump could play a role in antibiotic resistance in Acinetobacter spp. isolates. Owing to the resistance of Acinetobacter isolates against cephalosporine, it is suggested to avoid prescribing. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
42 - Quinolone resistance associated with efllux pumps mexAB-oprM in clinical isolates of Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Mitra Salehi Mina Hekmatdoost Farzaneh HosseiniBackground and Objectives: Pseudomonas aeruginosa is one of the most common antibiotic resistant bacteria and, therefore, treatments of Pseudomonad-caused infections are complicated. MexAB-OprM pump exports many antimicrobial compounds regardless of their structural and MoreBackground and Objectives: Pseudomonas aeruginosa is one of the most common antibiotic resistant bacteria and, therefore, treatments of Pseudomonad-caused infections are complicated. MexAB-OprM pump exports many antimicrobial compounds regardless of their structural and functional similarities. The mexB gene encodes a proton-drug antiporter in MexAB-OprM pump. The present study was aimed to evaluate and detect the quinolone resistance associated with efllux pumps mexAB-oprM in P. aeruginosa isolated from clinical specimens. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was performed on 104 P. aeruginosa isolated from patients hospitalized in Trauma and Burn Intensive Care Unit (TBICU). The Genera and strains were identified primarily based on biochemical tests. The evaluation of antibiotic resistance pattern was carried out using disk diffusion method for 11 common antibiotics and microdilution broth method for 4 antibiotics. The presence of mexB gene was investigated using PCR method. Results: According to the results, the most antibiotic resistance pattern were seen through treatment with nalidixic acid (86.54%), ceftazidime (82.2%) and ofloxacin (81.78%). Furthermore, the minimum antibiotic resistance were observed through treatment with imipenem (40.91%), piperacillin (44.9%) and tetracycline (48.03%). Based on MIC, the highest and lowest antibiotic sensitivity was recorded for tetracycline and ceftriaxone, respectively. Based on the PCR method, 27% of the clinical isolates harbor the mexAB-oprM operon. Conclusion: Based on the results, there is a significant association between presence of mexB gene and mexAB-oprM pump and antibiotic resistance in P. aeruginosa. Regarding the importance of antibiotic resistance, the study of other efllux pumps, comparison of antibiotic resistance profile and the relationship between efllux pumps and clinical origin of the strains are recommended. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
43 - Green synthesis of silver nanoparticle using Acroptilon repens extract and evaluation of its anti-efflux activity against Acinetobacter bumanni clinical isolates
Reyhane Behdad Amir Mirzaie Shohreh Zare KariziBackground & Objectives: Efflux pumps are one of the mechanisms for antibiotic resistance in Acinetobacter baumannii isolates. The aim of the present study was to investigate the green synthesis of silver nanoparticles using Acroptilon repens extract and evaluation MoreBackground & Objectives: Efflux pumps are one of the mechanisms for antibiotic resistance in Acinetobacter baumannii isolates. The aim of the present study was to investigate the green synthesis of silver nanoparticles using Acroptilon repens extract and evaluation of its anti- efflux activity in antibiotic-resistant A. baumannii isolates. Materials & Methods: In this experimental study, the silver nanoparticles were synthesized using A. repens alcoholic extract and the structure of the synthesized silver nanoparticles was confirmed by spectrophotometry (UV-Vis), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM). Subsequently, the adeAC efflux pump was detected in 21 A. baumannii clinical isolates using Cartwheel and Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) methods. Finally, the anti-efflux pump activity of silver nanoparticles was evaluated by Minimum Inhibition Concentration (MIC) technique. Results: The synthesized silver nanoparticle was confirmed by maximum absorbance at 420 nm wavelength, using UV-Vis method. The SEM and TEM micrographs showed that nanoparticles are spherical and have an average size of 38.89 nm. Moreover, the XRD results confirmed the cubic structure of silver nanoparticles. The results of Cartwheel and PCR methods revealed that the 12 out of 21 isolates have active efflux pumps. Furthermore, the MIC of ethidium bromide in resistant strains with silver nanoparticles was decreased. Conclusion: Based on anti-efflux pump activity of silver nanoparticles against A. bumannii strains, it seems that silver nanoparticles have potential uses for pharmaceutical industries, though further studies are required to confirm the results of this study. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
44 - Antibiotic resistance assessment, and genotypic and phenotypic detection of norA efflux pump in methicillin and ciprofloxacin resistant Staphylococcus aureus isolates
Samaneh sadat Kazemi Fahimeh Nemati Mansour Amir Mirzaei Fatemeh AshrafiBackground & Objectives: Staphylococcus aureus is one of the major causes of nosocomial infections throughout the world. Efflux pumps such as norA play a major role in the development of resistance to different antibiotics in this bacteria. The aim of this study was MoreBackground & Objectives: Staphylococcus aureus is one of the major causes of nosocomial infections throughout the world. Efflux pumps such as norA play a major role in the development of resistance to different antibiotics in this bacteria. The aim of this study was evaluation of the antibiotic resistance and detection of efflux pump (norA) in methicillin resistant (MRSA) and ciprofloxacin resistant S. aureus isolates using genotypic and phenotypic methods. Materials & Methods: During this sectional study, 250 clinical samples were collected from different hospitals in Tehran, Iran. S. aureus isolates were identified and the antimicrobial susceptibility patterns were determined. Ciprofloxacin minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was determined in both MRSA and ciprofloxacin resistant isolates. Furthermore, the presence of norA efflux pump gene in MRSA and ciprofloxacin resistant isolates was assessed phenotypically using ciprofloxacin and ethidium bromide MIC, with CCCP as efflux pump inhibitor, and genetically using PCR method. Results: Totally, 50 S. aureus isolates were recovered. The results of antibiotic susceptibility tests showed that 34 isolates (68%) were resistant to methicillin, of which 12 isolates (24%) were resistant to ciprofloxacin, as well. Moreover, all the MRSA- ciprofloxacin resistant strains harbored the norA gene and active efflux pump. Conclusion: The results showed the correlation between ciprofloxacin resistance and norA efflux pump gene in MRSA isolates. Development of efflux pump inhibitors can be useful in the control of MRSA ciprofloxacin resistant strains. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
45 - Investigation of antifungal effect of nanoparticle-encapsulated curcumin on CDR1 gene expression in fluconazole-resistant isolates of Candida albicans
Hadiseh Golpour Najmeh Ranji Seyedeh Hajar SharamiBackground & Objectives: Curcumin as a natural phenolic compound derived from Curcuma longa plant has shown an antifungal property. Candida albicans is the most common opportunistic fungal pathogen. Continuous deployment of antifungals against this pathogen has led MoreBackground & Objectives: Curcumin as a natural phenolic compound derived from Curcuma longa plant has shown an antifungal property. Candida albicans is the most common opportunistic fungal pathogen. Continuous deployment of antifungals against this pathogen has led to the emergence and increasing of the multi-drug resistance. In this study, the effect of nanoparticle-encapsulated curcumin on CDR1 gene expression was evaluated in fluconazole-resistant isolates of C. albicans. Materials & Methods: In this study, 6 fluconazole-resistant isolates of C. albicans were treated just by fluconazole (1/2MIC) as the control sample and in the combination with nanoparticle-encapsulated curcumin as the test sample. After 24h, two cell groups were cultured in Sabouraud Dextrose Agar to estimate cell death percentage. Following RNA extraction and cDNA synthesis, CDR1 gene expression was investigated quantitatively by real-time PCR method in both curcumin-treated and untreated cells. Results: Our findings showed that the combination of fluconazole (1/2MIC) and nanoparticle-encapsulated curcumin treatment reduces the fungal growth by 50% after 24 h. Moreover, quantitative real-time PCR analysis revealed that nanoparticle-encapsulated curcumin decreases the expression level of CDR1. Conclusion: Our findings suggested that curcumin can inhibit fungal growth through different mechanisms such as decreasing the number of ABC efflux pumps at the cell surface and synergically increases the antifungal effect of fluconazole in resistant isolates of C. albicans. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
46 - Synergistic effect of silver oxide nanoparticles and probiotic Lactobacillus plantarum on gene expression of MexX component of pump efflux system in drug-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains
Oumaima AL-Hilli farahnaz molavi maryam tehranipoorBackground & Objectives: An important part of drug resistance In Pseudomonas aeruginosa is related to efflux pump systems. In this study, the antimicrobial effect of silver oxide nanoparticle and Lactobacillus plantarum probiotic on MexX gene expre MoreBackground & Objectives: An important part of drug resistance In Pseudomonas aeruginosa is related to efflux pump systems. In this study, the antimicrobial effect of silver oxide nanoparticle and Lactobacillus plantarum probiotic on MexX gene expression has been studied. Materials & Methods: In this descriptive cross-sectional study, 49 samples were collected from Mashhad and identified using standard methods. Strains with multidrug resistance were selected to determine MIC and check the frequency of MexX gene by PCR method. Broth dilution method was performed for probiotics, silver oxide nanoparticles and combination of both to obtain MIC and MBC. Microdilution method and Real time-PCR technique were used to determine the effective dilution of silver oxide nanoparticles and probiotics and MexX gene expression, respectively. The data related to the changes in MexX gene expression were analyzed by the 2-ΔΔCT method using the independent T test in two groups. Results: All strains had MexX gene and all of them were resistant to more than two antibiotics. The minimum concentration of growth inhibition in the dilution method in agar was for silver oxide nanoparticles up to a dilution of 500 µg/ml and for probiotics up to a dilution of 16 µg/ml. Compared to probiotics, silver nanoparticles had a greater effect in inhibiting the growth of bacteria, and the amount of this effect is greater than the combined effect of probiotics and silver nanoparticles (P>0.05). Conclusion: Silver oxide nanoparticle and probiotic have antibacterial effect to reduce MexXY-OprM efflux pump function in Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteria. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
47 - Phenotypic and genetically evaluation of the prevalence of efflux pumps and antibiotic resistance in clinical isolates of Pseudomonas aeruginosa among burned patients admitted to Ghotbodin Shirazi Hospital
Yahya Dashtizadeh Afagh Moattari Ali akbar GorzinBackground & Objectives: Pseudomonas aeruginosa is an important cause of nosocomial infections in burnt patients. Antibiotic resistance through various mechanisms is one of challenges for treatment of these patients. The mex efflux pumps play a vital role in the dev MoreBackground & Objectives: Pseudomonas aeruginosa is an important cause of nosocomial infections in burnt patients. Antibiotic resistance through various mechanisms is one of challenges for treatment of these patients. The mex efflux pumps play a vital role in the development of multiple resistances to antimicrobial drugs. This study aimed to analyze the prevalence of genes responsible for efflux pumps mexA-B-oprM and to investigate their phenotypes in the isolates. Materials & Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 250 swabs were obtained from wounds of the patients suffering of burns levels 2 and 3 who admitted in Ghotbodin Shirazi hospital, Shiraz. Presence of P. aeruginosa isolates were confirmed by biochemical tests and PCR. Drug susceptibility, the phenotypic activity of efflux pumps and the presence of mex A, mex B genes were determined using disk diffusion method, cartwheel method and PCR methods, respectively. Results: In this study, 26.40% (66 cases) of patients with burn wounds were infected with P. aeruginosa. These bacteria were resistant to all antibiotics tested except for colistin. Totally, 66.66% of the isolates (44 cases) had an efflux pump, among them 42.92% and 87.87% of the isolates carried mexA and mexB genes, respectively. Conclusion: Our finding showed that genotypic method is very accurate and reliable than phenotypic methods for detection of efflux pumps in clinical isolates of P. aeruginosa. Due to presence of the efflux pump genes in more than 90% of the P. aeruginosa isolates, analysis of the presence of these genes is very important for suggestion of an effective treatment model for the patients with bacterial infection. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
48 - Feasibility of a High Efficiency Solar Air Conditioner Powered by DC Current
Mohammad Kazemi Bidhendi Alireze Derakshan -
Open Access Article
49 - Smart Grid Unit Commitment with Considerations for Pumped Storage Units Using Hybrid GA-Heuristic Optimization Algorithm
Ava Alamatsaz Mohammad Esmaeil Nazari -
Open Access Article
50 - Optimal Short-Term Scheduling of Multi-Chiller Plants Considering Energy Requirement of Cooling Towers, Pumps and Chillers
Farkhondeh Jabari Behnam Mohammadi M.R. Bannae Sharifian Hadi Ghaebi -
Open Access Article
51 - Optimal Scheduling of Coordinated Wind-Pumped Storage-Thermal System Considering Environmental Emission Based on GA Based Heuristic Optimization Algorithm
Mohammad Esmaeil Nazari Morteza Mohammad Ardehali -
Open Access Article
52 - Unit Commitment in Presence of Wind Power Plants and Energy Storage
Reza Khanzadeh Mahmoud Reza Haghifam -
Open Access Article
53 - Effect of cut off Irrigation and Foliar Application of Kaolin Clay on Yield and Yield Components of Pumpkin Seed (Cucurbita pepo L.)
M. Khalili F. NejatzadeOne of the most important and valuable plants in the pharmaceutical industry is the hull-less pumpkin (Cucurbita pepo L. var. Hamedani) plant, which belongs to the cucurbitaceous family. The aim of this research was to evaluate the effect of deficit irrigation and kaoli MoreOne of the most important and valuable plants in the pharmaceutical industry is the hull-less pumpkin (Cucurbita pepo L. var. Hamedani) plant, which belongs to the cucurbitaceous family. The aim of this research was to evaluate the effect of deficit irrigation and kaolin clay on yield and yield components of (Cucurbita pepo L.). Experiment was laid out as a split plot design with randomized complete block design with three replications at the field located in Siahbaz village, Khoy district, Iran. The main factors included irrigation at four levels (complete irrigation, deficit irrigation from the shoot stage, deficit irrigation from flowering stage, Deficit irrigation from seed filling stage) and sub-factor including three levels of kaolin (control, 3% kaolin, 6% kaolin) was considered. Analysis of variance showed that the effect of deficit irrigation and kaolin on number of seeds per fruit, fruit yield, 1000 grain weight, grain and biological yield, harvest index, oil and protein percentage, oil yield and protein yield were significant. Analysis of variance showed that irrigation treatment at different growth stages had significant effect on leaf number at 1% probability level, but application of kaolin and interaction of irrigation and kaolin on number of leaves per plant was not significant. The results showed that the highest grain weight (294.55 gr), grain yield (807.2 kg/ha), oil percentage (46.2) and oil yield (373.3 kg/ha) were related to complete irrigation treatment. Irrigation at grain filling stage had no significant effect. Deficit irrigation treatment at the stem stage showed the lowest of studied traits. The highest grain weight (257.07 gr), grain yield (733.7 kg/ha) and fruit yield (23.84 kg/ha) were observed in the 3% kaolin spraying treatment. Kaolin 3% increased oil yield, oil percentage, protein percentage and protein yield compared to control treatment. Interaction between deficit irrigation and kaolin consumption was not significant on any of the traits of pumpkin. According to the results of means of oil and protein yield, complete irrigation and cessation of irrigation at filling of grain, were in a statistical group and there was no significant difference with kaolin 3% and cessation of irrigation in filling of grain, the desired quantitative and qualitative yield can be achieved in Pumpkin. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
54 - The Supplementation Role of Pumpkin Seed and Endurance Training on Oxidative Stress Syndrome of Fast-twitch Muscles in Male Rats Poisoned with Hydrogen Peroxide
Nahid Shokohirad Tahereh Bagherpour Nematollah Nemati Vida HojatiThe aim of this study was to investigate the role of pumpkin seeds and endurance training on oxidative stress syndrome in fast-twitch muscle tissue in male rats poisoned with hydrogen peroxide. For this purpose, a total of 48 adult male wistar rats weighing 220 ± MoreThe aim of this study was to investigate the role of pumpkin seeds and endurance training on oxidative stress syndrome in fast-twitch muscle tissue in male rats poisoned with hydrogen peroxide. For this purpose, a total of 48 adult male wistar rats weighing 220 ± 20 gr and at 8 weeks were administered in accordance with stress interventions (hydrogen peroxide), pumpkin seeds supplementation, and endurance training. In order to induce oxidative stress, intraperitoneal injection of H2O2 at a dose of 2 mmol/kg was performed three times a week every other day. Inoculation of pumpkin seeds was performed at 0.5 μg/day with intraperitoneal injection at a concentration of 300000 U/ml. The exercise groups daily exercised endurance training on a treadmill for 8 weeks, the endurance training protocol started at a speed of 8 m/min and the 10-degree gradient was started for 30 minutes on the treadmill in the first week and gradually increased to 20 m/min at an angle of 10 degrees for 60 minutes on the eighth week. For data analysis, repeated measures ANOVA and Bonferron's post hoc test were used at the level of =0.05. The results showed that training and receiving pumpkin seeds individually had significant effect on ATP concentration, ADP, ATP/ADP ratio, MDA and PAB of extensor finger muscle (fast-twitch) (p < /em> = 0.001). However, the interaction between training and pumpkin seeds had no significant effect on MDA (p < /em> = 0.56) and ATP/ADP ratio (p < /em> = 0.88), and extensor finger muscle (fast-twitch), but had significant effect on other variables (p < /em> = 0.001). Pumpkin seeds supplementation and endurance training can reduce oxidative stress in the body. Further research is required to be done on the supplementation of pumpkin seed and endurance training and its effects on oxidative stress. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
55 - Thermodynamic analysis of utilization of horizontal geothermal heat pump for optimizing energy consumption and reducing CO2 emission (Case study: Shahrood City, Iran)
mohammad mohammadiun Mojtaba Montazeri hamid mohammadiun Meisam sadi Mohammad Hossein Dibaee Bonab -
Open Access Article
56 - Effect of cattle manure and mycorrhiza on growth physiological indices of naked seed pumpkin in different moisture conditions
Mohsen Yousefi Jahanfar DaneshianAbstractDetection of medicinal plants growth under different irrigation conditions and drought stress can be a guide to planting resistant plants in arid or low water areas. In order to evaluate the effect of manure and mycorrhizal fungi on physiological indices of grow MoreAbstractDetection of medicinal plants growth under different irrigation conditions and drought stress can be a guide to planting resistant plants in arid or low water areas. In order to evaluate the effect of manure and mycorrhizal fungi on physiological indices of growth of naked seed pumpkin seedlings (cucurbita pepo L.) in underwater stress conditions, a split factorial in randomized complete block design with four replications in spring and summer 2009 The research center of Faizabad, Qazvin Agricultural and Natural Resources Research Center, was conducted. Irrigation at three levels including: I1 = 60, I2 = 120 and I3 = 180 (millimeter evaporation from a class A evaporation pan) in the main plots that were applied in the pre-flowering stage and the manure factor was at three levels: 0, 15 and 30 ton/ha, along with mycorrhizal fungi in two levels (application and non-application) in subplots. The results of four sampling stages showed that application of 30 tons per hectare of manure and application of mycorrhiza in dry matter conditions increased dry matter, relative growth rate and growth rate of crop. Also, after applying stress, physiological indices decreased. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
57 - Effects of Soil Fertilizing Management on the Yield of Thin-walled Seed Pumpkin ( Cucurbitapepoconvar. Pepo var. styiaca )
صلاح الدين حقكوي tooraj mir-mahmoodiTo study the effect of Soil Fertilizing Management on Seed Yield of thin walled pod pumpkin an experiment was conducted in agricultural farm of agronomy research center of Sanandaj based on factorial randomized complete block design with three replications. Treatments i MoreTo study the effect of Soil Fertilizing Management on Seed Yield of thin walled pod pumpkin an experiment was conducted in agricultural farm of agronomy research center of Sanandaj based on factorial randomized complete block design with three replications. Treatments included levels of chemical fertilizer based on soil test( control zero, 50 and 100 percent of the recommended chemical fertilizer ) and type of bio-fertilizers including no control application of organic fertilizer ( compost ), nitrocara, phosphate bio-fertilizer 2, and compound of compost + nitrocara + phosphate bio-fertilizer2. In this study, 1000-kernel weight, number of seeds per fruit, average weight per fruit were measured. Analysis of variance showed that the effects of chemical fertilizer on all traits, except for grain weight and number of fruits per plant were significant and also the biological fertilizer treatments had important impact on all traits except for seed weight, fruit diameter and number of fruits per plant. The interaction between organic fertilizer and biological fertilizer had significant effect on all traits except for seed weight and number of fruits per plant. Comparison of means showed that the combination of compost + nitrocara + phosphate fertile2 with 50% and 100% chemical fertilizer had the highest amount of number of seeds per fruit, fruit weight, fruit diameter, fruit yield and grain yield. In this research treatments of compost + nitrocara + phosphate bio-fertilizer 2 with 50% and 100% chemical fertilizer without bio-fertilizer and 43.38 percent in comparison with 100 percent chemical fertilizer without bio-fertilizer and 84.92 percent compared with control of both treatments. So, by using of compost + nitrocara + phosphate bio-fertilizer2, can be saved 50 percent in consumption of chemical fertilizers. Manuscript profile
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