Pariyan Azad Derakht, Mohammad Fathi, Dr Raziyeh Rezaei, Raziyeh Rezaei,
Volume 27, Issue 5 (12-2024)
Abstract
Introduction: Physical activity positively influences various physiological factors, laying the groundwork for beneficial changes. Myostatin and follistatin are among these factors, whose levels are influenced by gender and physical activity. The present study was conducted with the aim of investigating the effect of traditional resistance training (RT) and high functional training (HIFT) on the serum levels of myostatin and follistatin in young women.
Methods: In this semi-experimental study, 30 young women were selected and divided into three groups: intense functional training, traditional resistance training, and control. Blood was drawn 24 hours before and 48 hours after the end of the interventions to measure the serum levels of myostatin and follistatin. The exercise protocols were performed for eight weeks, 3 days a week and 60 minutes a day. Ultimately, the collected data were analyzed using the ANOVA statistical method, with a significance level set at P < 0.05.
Results: The results showed that follistatin level was significantly higher in the RT and HIFT groups than in the control group (P = 0.001). Also, the amount of follistatin in the HIFT group was considerably higher than the RT group (P = 0.01). The results showed that the level of myostatin in the RT and HIFT groups was significantly lower than the control group (P = 0.001). Also, the amount of this factor in the HIFT group was substantially lower than in the RT group (P = 0.01).
Conclusions: In general, the findings of the present study show that performing intense resistance and functional exercises causes a favorable change in the expression of physiological factors related to muscle growth in women. It seems that the effect of intense functional exercises is greater than resistance exercises.
Hamid Moghavemi, Sadegh Abbasian, Mohammad Ali Sardar,
Volume 27, Issue 5 (12-2024)
Abstract
Introduction: Reducing physical activity as well as consuming more calories than the body needs increases obesity and its related disorders, such as metabolic syndrome. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the effect of eight weeks of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and resistance training (RT) on brain tissue gene expression of AKT2 and insulin resistance in obese Wistar rats.
Methods: 30 male rats weighing 160 to 185 grams were fed a high-fat diet for 12 weeks. After the approval of the obesity protocol of increasing the weight of the rats, which to be more than 300 grams, the rats were divided into three groups, including the control group (n = 10), HIIT group (n = 10), as well as RT group (n = 10). Until the end, the rats continued to eat a high-fat diet. HIIT was performed for eight weeks and five sessions per week, with an intensity of 80 to 95% of maximum oxygen consumption on a treadmill. Moreover, RT was performed with an intensity of 40-60% of a maximum repetition on the ladder. After eight weeks of training interventions, the expression level of the AKT2 gene in brain tissue was measured by the real-time PCR method.
Results: The results of the present study demonstrated a significant increase in AKT2 gene expression of HIIT and RT groups compared to the control group (P < 0.05). Furthermore, the results illustrated that the insulin resistance of rats in both training groups was significantly reduced (P < 0.05).
Conclusions: According to the findings of the present research, it could be concluded that HIIT, as well as RT interventions, probably causes an increase in AKT2 gene expression and could be effective in reducing insulin resistance and improving glucose profile.
Maryam Keshvari, Ali Heidarianpour, Farzaneh Chehelcheraghi,
Volume 27, Issue 5 (12-2024)
Abstract
Introduction: The thickness of the molecular and pyramidal layers in the hippocampus represents a pivotal aspect of Alzheimer's research. This study was conducted to investigate the effect of swimming endurance, resistance, and combined exercises on the molecular and pyramidal layers of the hippocampus tissue thickness of Alzheimer's rats.
Methods: In this experimental study, 40 large white Wistar laboratory rats (6 weeks old; Weight 180-200 g) were randomly and equally divided into five groups: healthy control, Alzheimer's control, endurance, resistance, and combined. Alzheimer's disease was induced by intraperitoneal injection of trimethyltin chloride (8 mg/kg). Two weeks after the injection and confirmation of Alzheimer's induction, the training protocols of endurance (5-sessions/week, the first to the fourth week incrementally from 5-15-min to 45-min of swimming, the fifth to the twelfth week 60-min of swimming), resistance (5-sessions/week, The first week of familiarization with the exercise, week 2; 30%, week3-5; 70-90%, week6-8; 100-110%, week9-10; 120-130%, and week11-12; 140-150% of body weight), combined (2 resistance sessions/week and three endurance sessions/week) was performed for 12 weeks. Forty-eight hours post-intervention, animals were dissected, and hippocampus tissue was harvested. Finally, the data were analyzed at the significance level of P < 0.05.
Results: The thickness of the molecular and pyramidal layers of the hippocampal tissue of Alzheimer's animals decreased compared to healthy animals, and all three endurance, resistance, and combined exercise protocols increased layers (P < 0.001). However, the increase in the molecular and pyramidal layers thickness of the hippocampal tissue of combined group rats compared to the endurance and resistance group had a greater increase (P < 0.01).
Conclusions: These findings highlight the changes in the thickness of the hippocampal tissue layers concerning Alzheimer's pathology and the effect of combined exercises on this parameter. While exercise may have positively affected hippocampal volume and synaptic plasticity, more research is needed to fully understand the impact of exercise on hippocampal layer thickness in Alzheimer's.
Elham Seyyed Murti, Farangis Dehmardi, Sallime Gharooni Fardi, Mohsen Saeidmanesh,
Volume 27, Issue 5 (12-2024)
Abstract
Introduction: The present study was conducted to investigate the effectiveness of schema therapy on marital satisfaction and mental health of women undergoing hysterectomy surgery.
Methods: This research was applied in terms of objective and quantitative research, and in terms of data collection method, it was semi-experimental research with two experimental and control groups with pre-test and post-test. The statistical population consisted of all women aged 30 to 50 who underwent hysterectomy surgery in 2023 in Yazd city. In this study,
30 eligible subjects were selected by the available method, and the participants were randomly divided into two experimental and control groups (15 people in each group). For the experimental group, the treatment plan was implemented in 10 sessions of 50 minutes. Goldberg's mental health questionnaire and Inrich's marital satisfaction questionnaire were used to measure the research variables.
Results: The findings from the analysis of the covariance test showed the use of the schema therapy approach increased the marital satisfaction and mental health of women undergoing hysterectomy surgery (p ≤ 0.001).
Conclusions: Therefore, the use of schema therapy sessions in medical centers for people who underwent hysterectomy surgery is suggested to reduce marital problems.
Atefeh Nobakht, Azita Salarian, Nader Khalesi,
Volume 27, Issue 5 (12-2024)
Abstract
Introduction: In a stressful work environment, individuals experience burnout; meanwhile, social support helps to reduce burnout. Therefore, the current research has investigated the effect of organizational climate on the burnout of employees of selected healthcare centers in Arak City, considering the moderating role of social support in 2023.
Methods: The current research is applied, exploratory, and developmental in terms of purpose. Random sampling and based on Cochran's formula from 134 healthcare workers working in the health center, the questionnaire was completed. Demographic information forms, Maslach's (1993) job burnout questionnaire, Halpin and Kraft's (1963) organizational climate questionnaire, and Zimmet's (1988) perceived social support questionnaire were used to collect data. The results of model structure reliability tests, Cronbach's alpha values, composite reliability values, and rho_a, which indicate the internal correlation of questions of a variable within the model, are higher than 0.7 and have acceptable structure reliability. All the values of the HTMT index were less than the permissible value of 0.9 and were at a satisfactorylevel. Consequently, this test also confirmed the divergent validity.
Results: The results with P > 0.001 and a 99% confidence level of the organizational atmosphere had an inverse effect on emotional burnout and depersonalization and directly impacted individual success. The perceived social support variable did not have a moderating role on the causal relationship of organizational climate with emotional burnout and depersonalization and its direction was reversed. However, it had a strengthening role in individual success and direct direction. In other words, people with more social support have more powerful personal success and vice versa.
Conclusions: Organizational climate is one of the variables of job burnout, and people with higher social support have less job burnout. Therefore, it is suggested that managers conduct in-service training focusing on the components of job burnout and perceived organizational climate. In addition, friendly relations should be established with employees to increase social support, and rewards and welfare measures should be granted.
Zohreh Mohammadi Kamalabadi, Allahyar Arabmomeni,
Volume 27, Issue 6 (1-2025)
Abstract
Introduction: Exercise and physical activity have always been recommended as a core treatment for knee osteoarthritis. However, it is unclear which types of exercises have the most splendid effect on this condition. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of two methods of water exercise (Traband exercise and NASM exercise) on pain and motor function in women with knee osteoarthritis.
Methods: In this semi-experimental study, with a design pre and post-test and a control group, 45 women with knee osteoarthritis with an average age = 56.5 years and a BMI = 29.04 kg/m2 were purposefully selected and divided into three groups (n = 15); Water Exercise with Theraband, Water Exercise with the NASM Approach and Control randomly. An exercise protocol with Theraband and NASM approach (approved by the Medical College of Georgia for patients with knee osteoarthritis) was performed for eight weeks, three sessions per week, and each session lasted about 60 minutes in the water. Visual Analog Scale (VAS) and physical performance tests of the Osteoarthritis Research Society International (OARSI) were used to estimate the study variables. MANCOVA and post hoc Bonferroni tests were conducted to analyze the data at a significant level (P ≤ 0.05).
Results: The results showed that, similarly, in both experimental groups, the amount of pain and the time of tests TUG, 40MW, and SCT decreased significantly (P≥ 0.05). In addition, in both experimental groups, there was a significant increase in the scores of the 30-S-CS and 6MWT tests (P≥ 0.05).
Conclusions: These results showed the beneficial effects of training in water with the traband and training in water with the NASM approach on pain and motor performance indicators. Therefore, the use of these training methods is recommended as a suitable prevention and treatment method for knee osteoarthritis.
Mohsen Kamalinia, Kianoush Zahrakar, Mehdi Arabzadeh,
Volume 27, Issue 6 (1-2025)
Abstract
Introduction: Resilience is an influential component of various psychological, emotional, and emotional variables and is substantial in occupational, individual, and family issues research.
Methods: The present study is fundamental in its purpose and descriptive in collecting data; it is a correlational type with a structural equation model. The statistical population of the study also includes all married female nurses in government medical centers and hospitals in Alborz province who were working in 2022, from which 400 people were selected as a sample using a multi-stage cluster sampling method. Connor and Davidson's (2003) resilience questionnaire, the revised short form of the Skorn-Smith Self-Differentiation Questionnaire (2003), and Bagarozzi's (2001) Marital Intimacy Questionnaire were used to collect data.
Results: There is a positive and significant relationship between self-differentiation (r = 0.732,
P > 0.01) and marital intimacy (r = 0.856, P > 0.01) with resilience. Also, the standard deviation, skewness, and kurtosis of the self-differentiation variable were 20.686, 0.212, and -0.941; the marital intimacy variable was 89.597, 887, and -0.019; and the resilience variable was 30.055, 0.202, and -1.131.
Conclusions: The results showed that the data fit the research's conceptual model and also confirmed the mediating role of marital intimacy in the relationship between self-differentiation and resilience. Therefore, it is recommended that healthcare professionals pay special attention to the cognitive, emotional, and affective variables of this group to increase the strength of married female nurses.
Zahra Sadat Mousavi, Fatemeh Nasernakhaei,
Volume 27, Issue 6 (1-2025)
Abstract
Introduction: Bird′s-foot trefoil (Lotus corniculatus L., Fabaceae) has many medicinal properties due to its valuable chemical compounds. This research reviews the chemical compounds and medicinal properties of this plant.
Methods: This study used library resources, search engines, and databases such as Google, Google Scholar, PubMed, PubChem, ScienceDirect, Magiran, ResearchGate, and SID. The data were collected and classified.
Results: The results indicate that bird′s-foot trefoil is rich in valuable compounds such as kaempferol, quercetin, isorhamnetin, oleamide, and linoleamide. Different extracts of this plant have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immunostimulant, anti-cancer, anti-pain, anti-depressant, anti-amylase, anti-fungal, antiprotozoal, and anti-bacterial activities. It is used for wound healing, controlling anxiety and nausea, treating urinary infections, removing kidney stones, and as an antispasmodic and anti-hemorrhoid. Topical application of Lotus corniculatus seed extract has reduced the sebum contents and areas of oily human skin.
Conclusions: L. corniculatus can directly and indirectly affect human life and health. Due to the effective compounds and medicinal properties of Bird′s-foot trefoil, additional studies and clinical tests on its medicinal properties should be performed.
Reavan Afshar, Masoud Rahmati, Rahim Mirnasouri,
Volume 28, Issue 1 (3-2025)
Abstract
Introduction: Considering the synthesis and secretion of irisin and BDNF from muscle tissue during exercise and the possible relationship of these factors with improving muscle strength and performance, the present study aimed to investigate the effect of 12 weeks of strength training on muscle strength, body fat percentage, irisin, and BDNF in inactive middle-aged women.
Methods: In a semi-experimental study, 20 inactive middle-aged women (mean age 37.70 ± 5.91 years, weight 79.80 ± 5.82 kg) were selected and randomly assigned to two strength training groups (n = 10) and control groups (n = 10). The training group performed 12 weeks of strength training, three sessions per week at an intensity of 65 to 80% of maximum strength. Then, blood samples were taken using ELISA to measure irisin and BDNF. Independent t-test and Pearson correlation test were used to analyze the data. The significance level (P ≤ 0.05) was considered.
Results: Strength training significantly increased serum irisin concentration (P = 0.035) and serum BDNF concentration (P = 0.058) and also considerably decreased body fat percentage (P = 0.058) in middle-aged women. There was also a positive and significant relationship between lower body strength and serum irisin levels (P = 0.040). The Results from the Pearson correlation test indicate a significant positive relationship between BDNF and upper body strength (P = 0.038).
Conclusions: Based on the results of the present study, it seems that increased secretion of serum irisin and BDNF hormones is related to increased muscle strength following strength training in middle-aged individuals.
Mohammad Ali Gharaat, Sajjad Karami,
Volume 28, Issue 1 (3-2025)
Abstract
Introduction: Different training methods increase performance capabilities in addition to metabolic changes in body organs. The present study aimed to compare the effect of endurance and strength training on anthropometric indicators, glucose changes, fat metabolism, and irisin levels of young male students.
Methods: Thirty-six obese students (age: 21.19 ± 2.43 years; weight: 88.59 ± 6.20 kg; height: 175.41 ± 12.96 cm; body mass index: 30.45; fat percentage: 25.73%) were randomly placed in one of control, endurance, and strength training groups (n= 12). The strength training group trained for 8 week/3 session/4 sets/10 repetitions/ from 50 to 70% of the one repetition maximum (incremental manner, every 2 weeks), and the endurance training group trained for 30 minutes of aerobic jogging with 60 to 80% heart rate maximum. Plasma irisin, glucose, insulin, insulin resistance, fat percentage, body mass index, weight, waist circumference, and hip circumference were measured. The data were analyzed by one-way analysis of variance and Tukey's test at 0.05.
Results: Body weight (P = 0.03), fat percentage (P = 0.04), and body mass index (P = 0.04) significantly decreased in the post-test of endurance training group. Irisin level in the post-test in the control group had a significant difference with endurance and strength training (P = 0.01 and P = 0.02, respectively). Insulin in the post-test of the control group was significantly different from the endurance and strength group (P = 0.00 and P = 0.00, respectively). The level of insulin resistance in the post-test of the endurance and strength group had a significant difference compared to the control (P = 0.00 and P = 0.00, respectively).
Conclusions: Eight weeks of aerobic treadmill training and strength training with free weights can improve body composition, increase irisin levels, and reduce insulin resistance in obese male adolescents.
Fateme Tahsinin, Ali Heidarianpour, Elnaz Shokri,
Volume 28, Issue 1 (3-2025)
Abstract
Introduction: Being overweight is associated with increased cortisol secretion, along with heightened anxiety and depression. This study aimed to compare the effect of six weeks of concurrent moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT) and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) with HIIT training alone on body composition, plasma cortisol levels, and anxiety and depression levels in overweight male students.
Methods: In this semi-experimental research, 27 overweight students were selected and randomly divided into three groups 9: MICT+HIIT concurrent training, HIIT training, and a control group. The MICT )15 minutes of exercise per day at 60-65% of maximum heart rate with an additional 5 minutes every two weeks). The HIIT (3 minutes of running at 70-75% of maximum heart rate, followed by 3 minutes of active rest at 50% of maximum heart rate, with three repetitions in the first two weeks, four repetitions in the second two weeks, and five repetitions in the final two weeks).
Results: Both types of training protocols resulted in reductions in weight, body mass index, cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein, cortisol levels, anxiety, depression, and an increase in high-density lipoprotein (P < 0.05). There was no significant difference between the two types of exercise in terms of effectiveness on these variables; however, only peak oxygen consumption and triglycerides were associated with better changes in the MICT+HIIT group.
Conclusions: For overweight male adolescents aiming for weight loss and improved mental health, HIIT alone is sufficient, and adding MICT does not provide additional clinical benefits.
Hadis Tahmasbi Arashloopour, Daryoush Khajavi, Fardin Faraji,
Volume 28, Issue 2 (4-2025)
Abstract
Introduction: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is the most common neurological disorder in young adults and balance problems due to MS may result in disturbances in upright posture, limitations in walking and turning, and ultimately falls in patients. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of a combined physical exercises and cognitive-behavioral stress management intervention program on static, dynamic balance and balance confidence in PwMS.
Methods: The statistical population included MS patients (aged 20–60 years with Expanded Disability Status Scale [EDSS] scores of 2–4) referred to the Arak MS Association. Thirty participants were selected via convenience sampling and randomly assigned to experimental and control groups. Participants underwent pretests using the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test, single-leg stance test, and the Activities-Specific Balance Confidence (ABC) Scale. Then, they participated in the combined motor and cognitive intervention program, and finally performed a post – test. Data were analyzed by Independent and Paired Student T-tests.
Results: According to the results, the mean score of the experimental group in the TUG test (P ≤ 0.002), and standing on one-foot tests increased significantly in the post-test (P ≤ 0.001). There were no significant differences in mean ABC scores between the experimental and control groups on the post-test (P ≤ 0.153).
Conclusions: The findings suggest that a combined motor and cognitive intervention program can effectively improve agility, dynamic and static balance in people with MS. Improving balance confidence may require a longer duration of training due to its subjective nature.
Shahnaz Shahrjerdi, Zahra Geramipour,
Volume 28, Issue 2 (4-2025)
Abstract
Introduction: Hallux valgus is a common foot deformity causing lateral deviation of the first toe and progressive subluxation of the first metatarsophalangeal joint. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of kinesiotype and ankle strengthening exercises with a bosu ball on pain, balance and big toe angle in women with hallux valgus.
Methods: This clinical trial study used a pre-test and post-test design. First, forty-five women with hallux valgus and flat feet were selected via convenience sampling and randomly assigned to three groups: a kinesiotape group (four weeks, three sessions/week, 24-hour tape application per session), a kinesiotape with Bosu ball ankle strengthening exercises (four weeks, three sessions/week, 30 minutes of exercises and 24-hour tape application per session), and a control group (no intervention). Pain, balance, and hallux valgus angle were measured using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), stork test, and goniometer, respectively. Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA at a significance level (P ≥ 0.05).
Results: After performing the exercises, comparing the data between the two groups before and after 4 weeks revealed a significant difference in pain, balance, and hallux valgus angle in the two groups of kinesiotape and kinesiotape along with the strengthening exercises of Boussou bathop compared to The control group showed (P = 0.001).
Conclusions: A combined program of kinesiotape and Bosu ball ankle strengthening exercises may improve pain, balance, and hallux valgus alignment in women.
Seyed Abdollah Mahmoodi,
Volume 28, Issue 2 (4-2025)
Abstract
Introduction: Today, declining birth rates and families’ reluctance to have children for various reasons pose challenges for both individuals and societies. One of the key factors influencing fertility is individuals’ attitudes toward this issue, with religious beliefs being among the most fundamental perspectives. The Islamic faith, in particular, has addressed this matter in numerous verses and narrations. This study aims to explore Islamic religious sources’ viewpoints regarding fertility.
Methods: The research is based on an extensive review of authentic library documents and data from various databases such as PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, as well as search engines like Google Scholar. The findings indicate that, in addition to several verses in the Quran, Islamic texts related to the Imams, such as Nahj al-Balagha and Sahifa Sajjadiya, explicitly encourage childbearing and population growth, while condemning population decline. These sources identify four general factors—individual, economic, political system, and social-cultural status—that influence population increase or decrease.
Conclusions: Given the valuable Islamic resources regarding childbearing and the existing challenges in societies related to population decline and aging, it is possible to take significant steps to improve individuals’ and families’ attitudes toward childbearing by reinforcing Islamic lifestyles and religious beliefs.
Davoud Shamsi, Mohsen Mohammadian Saravi, Khalil Ali Mohamadzadeh, Azadeh Ashrafi,
Volume 28, Issue 2 (4-2025)
Abstract
Introduction: Good governance, as one of the fundamental concepts in healthcare system management, plays a key role in enhancing the efficiency, effectiveness, and equity of healthcare services. This concept, Emphasizing principles such as transparency, accountability, participation, and legality, has been considered as a framework for improving policymaking and management in Iran's healthcare system.
This study conducted in 2024 aimed to design and present a model of good governance in the healthcare system using a mixed approach of thematic analysis and Partial Least Squares (PLS) method.
Methods: The research method included both qualitative and quantitative components. The qualitative phase, involved managers, health policy experts, specialists from the Ministry of Health and Medical Education, and academic scholars. Sampling was done using purposive and snowball sampling methods, with 17 participants selected until theoretical saturation was reached. In the quantitative phase, the Partial Least Squares (PLS) method was used for model fitting. The statistical population for this section included all experts and managers in Iran's healthcare sector, with a minimum sample size of 384 determined based on Cochran's formula.
Results: The results of thematic analysis of the qualitative data and model fitting showed that the final good governance model in the healthcare system consists of seven main dimensions: effectiveness, efficiency, equity, transparency and accountability, participation, legality, and leadership. Each dimension comprised specific components, and the importance of each was confirmed in strengthening good governance.
Conclusions: This study presents a comprehensive good governance model for the healthcare system, offering a framework for improving policymaking, management, and performance in this sector. The proposed model can be used as a strategic decision-making tool and improving management structures.
Ali Jalalvand,
Volume 28, Issue 2 (4-2025)
Abstract
Introduction: This study aimed to investigate the effect of the backward gait training protocol on postural sway and balance in elderly men with a history of falls.
Methods: A total of 28 healthy elderly individuals with a history of falls participated in this research. The backward gait protocol was considered the independent variable, and the mean parameters of postural sway, including range, center of pressure displacement, center of pressure velocity, and center of pressure acceleration, were examined as dependent variables. A Kistler force platform was used to assess postural sway. A mixed-design repeated measures ANOVA was performed at a significance level of 0.05.
Results: No significant differences were found in the anterior-posterior amplitude and medio-lateral acceleration of the center of pressure between healthy elderly individuals and those with a history of falls (P > 0.05). However, individuals with a history of falls exhibited greater medio-lateral amplitude, anterior-posterior displacement, anterior-posterior velocity, and anterior-posterior acceleration of the center of pressure (P = 0.001). Conversely, they demonstrated lower medio-lateral displacement (P = 0.001) and medio-lateral velocity of the center of pressure (P = 0.005).
Conclusions: Changes in center of pressure parameters may predict fall risk in the older adults. These parameters have varying sensitivities for detecting subtle differences in postural control. The responses of various parameters are influenced by compensatory mechanisms, weaknesses, and balance disorders. The backward gait protocol serves as a targeted intervention to improve balance and stability in elderly individuals at risk of falls.
Rahmatallah Fatahian, Behnaz Karimi, Seyed Reza Hosseini, Kianoush Forouhar Majd, Ayatallah Hatempour ,
Volume 28, Issue 3 (8-2025)
Abstract
Introduction: The study discusses the impact of thiamine on the tissues of rats that have been exposed to copper oxide nanoparticles. The research looks at how thiamine correlates with the level of kidney damage caused by the intrusion of nanoparticles.
Methods: In this experimental study, forty male Wistar rats aged 10 rats in each group were randomly divided into four groups. Two groups of rats were used as control group (I) and thiamine group (II). Rats of group III were administered intraperitoneal injection of 25 mg/kg body weight copper oxide nanoparticles for 14 days. Patients in group IV received the same dose of copper oxide nanoparticles together with thiamine (30 mg/kg body weight.
Results: The histopathological findings showed disruption of the order of convoluted tubules and their disintegration and widening of the tubular lumen, cell separation and tubular necrosis of the majority of the renal tubules in-group III. In the group treated with copper oxide nanoparticles along with thiamine (IV), the pathological changes were slight and the majority of the tubes had their normal structure. Statistically significant alteration in the levels of some serum biochemical parameters (catalase, superoxide dismutase, TBARS, and TAC) were observed in groups III and IV on day 14 when compared to the control group.
Conclusions: In this research, it was demonstrated that thiamine can be utilized as an effective compound to reduce the damage caused by nanoparticles in kidney tissue and can significantly improve the health of kidney tissue in patients suffering from damage caused by these nanoparticles.
Safieh Azadi Fard, Mehdi Moradi, Mohammad Malekipooya,
Volume 28, Issue 3 (8-2025)
Abstract
Introduction: Plasma levels of adhesion molecules are considered important indicators in estimating the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Since endurance training and a fasting diet are effective in reducing the symptoms of heart diseases, this study aimed to investigate the effect of a period of endurance training with electrical stimulation on the expression of ICAM and VCAM genes in the heart tissue of obese fasting rats.
Methods: In this study, 35 male Wistar rats (8 weeks old, avg. weight 200±19 g) were randomly assigned to 5 groups (obese control, fasting, fasting with endurance training, fasting with electrical stimulation, fasting with endurance training with electrical stimulation) after inducing obesity. Fasting utilized a 16/8 protocol for all groups except the obese control. The endurance training lasted 4 weeks, increasing intensity from 50% to 65% of max oxygen consumption. Electrical stimulation was delivered via foot shock (0.5 mA for 20 min). Heart tissue was collected 24 hours post-training under anesthesia, with ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 gene expression measured via Real-time PCR. Data was analyzed using two-way ANOVA and Tukey's post hoc test in SPSS version 26, with significance at P≥0.05.
Results: The results of the present study demonstrated that intermittent fasting, endurance training, and electrical stimulation—each independently—led to a significant reduction in the gene expression of vascular adhesion molecules in the cardiac tissue of obese rats (P = 0.001). Moreover, it appears that the combination of all three interventions exerts a greater effect in reducing the expression levels of these adhesion molecules in the cardiac tissue of obese rats (P = 0.001).
Conclusion: Based on the findings, the simultaneous application of endurance training, intermittent fasting, and electrical stimulation exerts a considerable impact on decreasing the expression of VCAM and ICAM in cardiac tissue. However, it is still not possible to definitively determine the directionality of the individual or combined effects of intermittent fasting, endurance training, and electrical stimulation (foot-shock stimulation) on adhesion molecules under conditions of obesity and intermittent fasting.
Amirali Jafarnezhadgero, Sajjad Ghadimi Khesht Masjedi, Abbas Ghadimi Khesht Masjedi, Mohammad Eslamzadeh, Ebrahim Piri,
Volume 28, Issue 3 (8-2025)
Abstract
Introduction: One of the common undesirable postural abnormalities that poor mobility has brought to humans due to the significant growth of technology and widespread use of tools and communication devices is the excessive increase of the back arch (hyperkyphosis) and forward head deformity. Therefore, the aim of this research is to review the effects of rehabilitation exercises on people with kyphosis and forward head posture.
Methods: The current study was a systematic review, searching for articles in Persian and Latin from the beginning of December 2005 to the beginning of April 2023, using the Wos, SID, Magiran, Scopus, ISC, PubMed and Google Scholar databases.
Results: A number of seven articles in the field of rehabilitation exercises reported that corrective exercises improve forward head and kyphosis, as well as posture. One article indicated that the use of braces reduced trapezius muscle electrical activity in patients with kyphosis, which may delay fatigue onset.
Conclusions: : The current review study showed that exercise protocols improve kyphosis and forward head complications, as well as improve pain and maintain proper posture in affected individuals.
Mohammad Parastesh, Zahra Yousefvand, Behzad Aria, Majid Mardaniyan Ghahfarrokh, Jamileh Ahmadi,
Volume 28, Issue 3 (8-2025)
Abstract
Introduction: Cisplatin, a widely used chemotherapy agent, offers therapeutic benefits for cancer treatment but often leads to adverse effects on neurogenesis and oxidative stress. On the other hand, physical activity has been proposed as a potential strategy to counteract these side effects. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of an endurance training period on oxidative stress markers in the brain tissue of rats induced with cisplatin.
Methods: In this study, 32 male rats with an average weight of 220 grams were divided into four groups: healthy control, cisplatin-injected control, endurance training, and cisplatin + endurance training. After 8 weeks of endurance training, the rats were dissected, and blood serum was separated to measure oxidant and antioxidant factors. Additionally, the brain was removed under sterile conditions for the examination of the desired markers. Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA.
Results: The results showed that cisplatin significantly decreased MDA and significantly increased TAC and CAT in the cisplatin-receiving control group. On the other hand, 8 weeks of endurance training significantly decreased MDA and significantly increased TAC and CAT. Moreover, no significant change was observed in serum SOD levels. In brain tissue, MDA levels significantly increased, and TAC, CAT, and SOD levels significantly decreased in the cisplatin-receiving group. Conversely, 8 weeks of endurance training reduced MDA levels and increased TAC, CAT, and SOD levels.
Conclusions: Based on the findings of the present study, it appears that physical exercise has protective effects against cisplatin-induced oxidative stress in the brain, which may be attributed to its antioxidant capabilities
