Professor Hamid Rajabi, - Marjan Sheidaee, - Neda Khaledi,
Volume 26, Issue 6 (2-2024)
Abstract
Introduction: Athletes use diverse strategies, including caffeine supplementation, to reduce fatigue and improve their performance. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of the post-activation potentiation method and caffeine supplementation on peripheral fatigue after Wikstrom's fatigue protocol in young male volleyball players.
Methods: In this study, forty male volleyball players with an average age of 27.33 ± 1.78 years and an average weight of 76.5 ± 7.45 kg participated. They were divided into four experimental groups: a group that used only the PAP method (n=10), a group that consumed only caffeine (n=10), a group that both performed PAP and consumed caffeine (n=10), and a control group (n=10). For the groups receiving caffeine, a caffeine supplement was administered at a dose of 6 mg per kilogram of body weight, 15 minutes before starting the protocol. PAP exercises were performed at an intensity of 70% of the one-repetition maximum. Blood samples were taken one hour before and one hour after completing the Wikstrom six-station protocol. All subjects participated in this study voluntarily and they had no illness or injury at the start of the research.
Results: The results of the present study showed that the implementation of PAP along with caffeine showed a significant increase in the variables of time to exhaustion and the number of rounds (p<0.05), while the rate of ammonia showed a significant decrease (p<0.05). In contrast, uric acid showed no significant difference (p>0.05).
Conclusions: The results of the present study, showed that the use of caffeine reduces peripheral fatigue. Also, since the use of PAP did not have an adverse effect on the participant's performance, athletes can use this method concurrently with caffeine to improve their performance in endurance activities.
Habib Rezaei, Soad Mahfoozpour, Somayeh Hesam, Eiravan Masoodi Asl,
Volume 27, Issue 2 (5-2024)
Abstract
Introduction: Traffic accidents are a principal challenge in the injury and death of people in Iran and many other countries, which has made the formulation of necessary strategies and planning for inter-sectoral cooperation to prevent and reduce traffic accidents undeniable. Therefore, this research was conducted to investigate the dimensions of inter-sectoral collaboration in preventing traffic accidents in Iran.
Methods: This research is a qualitative study that was conducted in 2023. In this study, sampling was done in a targeted manner, and 15 people from the statistical population were interviewed. The statistical population of the research at this stage included executive managers, traffic police, field activists, and public institutions active in the field of traffic accidents in Central Province and Tehran, who, due to the relevance of their job field, were informed or participated in intersectoral cooperation in line with the management of accidents and traffic accidents were included in the study. Data were collected and analyzed through structured interviews, and their coding was done with the help of MAXQDA 11 software.
Results: The study identified and extracted eight main dimensions of intersectoral cooperation in preventing traffic accidents. These dimensions include laws and law enforcement, research and development, information and data management, internal and external coordination, crisis management, education and awareness, roads, and vehicles.
Conclusions: Providing platforms for promoting the development and expansion of inter-sectoral cooperation in accident prevention and traffic accidents can have various benefits, including long-term social, political, economic and, well-being. Therefore, based on the findings of the research, it is suggested to design an intersectoral cooperation model for the prevention of accidents and traffic accidents so that traffic accidents can be reduced to the minimum possible with proper planning and design so that we can witness the highest level of effectiveness and efficiency in this area.
Mohammadrahim Amiri, Bayan Heydaryan, Fariba Moradivastghani, Sara Imani Brouj,
Volume 27, Issue 2 (5-2024)
Abstract
Introduction: The present study findings aimed to investigate the effect of exercises based on the American National Academy of Sports Medicine principles (NASM) on walking kinetics in piriformis syndrome in middle-aged men.
Methods: The current research was semi-experimental and laboratory-type. The statistical sample of the present study was 30 men with piriformis syndrome. Subjects were equally and randomly placed in two intervention and control groups. The intervention group performed NASM exercises for eight weeks. Before and after the exercises, the ground reaction force variables were measured using a Bartek force plate device with a sampling rate of 1000 Hz. Kinetic data were smoothed using a fourth-order Butterworth filter with a frequency cutoff of 20 Hz. For statistical analysis, analysis of variance and paired T-test were utilized at the significance level of P < 0.05.
Results: The findings of the present study showed that the effect of time on the FxHC and FyHC components at the peak of the forces and the FyHC component at the time of reaching the peak of the ground reaction force increased in the post-test compared to the pre-test. P > 0.025;
d = 0.64 - 0.96. The effect of the time factor in the FyPO component at the peak of the ground reaction force in the post-test was less than the pre-test (P < 0.025; d = 1.64-0.96). The interaction effect of the time × group in the FxPO component at the peak of the force and the FzHC component at the time of reaching the peak of the ground reaction force had a significant difference (P < 0.048; d = 0.87-0.83).
Conclusions: The NASM exercises used in this research can have a clinical and therapeutic effect that can reduce damage to the lower limbs and improve the quality of walking in people with piriformis syndrome.
Zahra Yousefvand, Masoud Rahmati, Rahim Mirnasuri,
Volume 27, Issue 3 (7-2024)
Abstract
Introduction: Considering the synthesis and release of myokines from muscle tissue during exercise and the relationship of myokines with the development of strength and increase in muscle volume, the purpose of this study is to investigate 12 weeks of resistance training on the serum levels of myonectin and FGF- There were 21 middle-aged men.
Methods: In a semi-experimental study, 40 middle-aged men of Arak city (mean age 38.27 ± 6.02 years, weight 77.12 ± 11.23 kg, height 174.05 ± 7.22 cm) were selected and randomly placed in two resistance training groups (20 people) and control (20 people). The training group performed 12 weeks of resistance training 3 times a week with an intensity of 65-80% of maximum strength. Blood was taken from all the subjects 48 hours before and after the intervention, and serum levels of myonectin and FGF-21 were checked by the ELISA method. After checking the normality of the data, they were analyzed by the correlation t-test and independent t-test at a significance level of less than 0.05.
Results: Resistance training caused a significant increase in the serum level of myonectin (P = 0.001) and the serum level of FGF-21 (P = 0.001) and also decreased the percentage of fat (P = 0.417) in middle-aged men.
Conclusions: According to the results of this study, it seems that resistance training can have positive adaptation by increasing the serum levels of myonectin and FGF-21 in the regulation of muscle mass, hypertrophy process, angiogenesis process, and Improve the body's metabolism.
Mohammad Ali Gharaat,
Volume 27, Issue 4 (10-2024)
Abstract
Introduction: Physical activity causes cardiac hypertrophy by a non-pathological change in cardiac structure, called physiological hypertrophy. Several molecular changes are involved in this process. Insulin-like growth hormone-1 (IGF-1) is an important hormone involved in hypertrophy of cardiomyocytes. Also, the role of GATA4 as a possible gene involved in cardiac hypertrophy is controversial. Therefore, the present study was conducted to find the effect of aerobic and interval training on IGF-1, GATA4 gene, and cardiac tissue.
Methods: Eighteen male Wistar rats (243.72 ± 23.41 g) were randomly divided into control, aerobic, and interval training groups (n = 6). The aerobic group trained for 8 weeks/4 days a week/38 minutes/ 65% of maximum oxygen consumption (VO2 max). The intermittent group trained 8 weeks/4 days a week/5 set/4 minutes/85-90% of VO2 max running with 2 minutes rest between the sets. The weight of the heart and left ventricle, IGF-1 concentration, and GATA4 gene expression were measured 48 hours after the training. The evaluation was conducted with a one-way analysis of variance and Tukey's post hoc test at a significance level of 0.05.
Results: The weight of the heart and left ventricle increased significantly in trained groups. IGF-1 and GATA4 gene expression increased in both the training groups than the control group.
Conclusions: Aerobic and Interval training increases IGF-1, GATA4 gene, left ventricle, and heart weight. Considering the shorter time interval training takes, it seems that interval training is more beneficial than aerobic training.
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.
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.
