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.
