Showing 327 results for Ahi
Akram Jokar, Homa Sheikhani Shahin, Mehrzad Moqaddasi, Alireza Jowhari,
Volume 26, Issue 5 (December & January 2023)
Abstract
On average, patients suffering from non-alcoholic steatohepatitis after about seven years, their disease turns into fibrosis and reversibility at this stage becomes very difficult because this disease is an irreversible stage of the disease. Fatty liver is non-alcoholic (2). Researches have come to the conclusion that liver inflammation and insulin resistance decrease and insulin sensitivity increases with sports activity (3). TNF-α has a high inflammatory effect; So that different agents and species of this family and their receptors play a role in NASH disease and liver fibrosis (5). However, exercise increases prostaglandins and cAMP. The mentioned hormones inhibit the function of TNF-α (6). On the other hand, anti-inflammatory cytokines increase due to exercise and inhibit the increase of TNF-α. With the increase in production and secretion of TNF-α, other inflammatory factors such as TGF-β1 signaling are activated and fibrosis signaling will start in liver cells (5). TGF-β1 (Transforming growth factor beta 1) is one of the members of the large family of transforming growth factors beta (TGF-β) and a key cytokine in obesity and insulin resistance (7). In a research, during 48 weeks of applying a high-fat diet to rats, they found that steatosis occurs in the liver of rats from the eighth week onwards, and the amount of TGF-β1 in them increased significantly. In the end, they came to the conclusion that this factor can be one of the main characteristics of determining the degree of liver fibrosis in patients with NASH (10). High-intensity interval training (HIIT) is one of the new training models whose positive effects have been identified in a variety of metabolic diseases (13). On the other hand, there are very few researches about the effect of aquatic environment and swimming on the improvement of metabolism and inflammation in NASH patients. Based on the results of a systematic review in 2018, it was shown that endurance exercise in water improved systemic inflammation and weight control (18). Despite the conflicting results in this field and the beneficial effects of exercise in water and also human's innate interest in water, the effect of high-intensity interval exercise in water in patients with non-alcoholic steatohepatitis has not been observed by the researchers of this study. Therefore, the effect of eight weeks of high-intensity interval training in water on inflammatory factors in patients with non-alcoholic steatohepatitis was investigated.
Materials and methods
In this study, eight-week-old rats were divided into two groups: healthy (n=20) and high-fat diet (HFD) (n=20). After eight weeks and proof of disease induction, the HFD group was randomly divided into two groups: control-disease (n=9) and exercise-disease (n=9); Also, the healthy group was divided into two groups: control-healthy (n=9) and exercise-healthy (n=9). The rats in the training group performed HIIT swimming training, including 20 times of 30 seconds of swimming with 30 seconds of rest between each time, for eight weeks (three days a week). One-way ANOVA and Bonferroni's post hoc test (P<0.05) were used to determine the difference between groups.
Ethical Considerations
The proposal of this study has been approved by the Ethics Committee of Shiraz University of Medical Sciences (IR.SUMS.REHAB.REC.1400.008).
Findings:
As shown in diagram 1; Based on the results of the one-way analysis of variance test, it can be said that there was a significant difference between the mean TNF-α blood serum (P=0.001). According to the results of Bonferroni's post hoc test, these differences in blood serum TNF-α variable between the control-healthy and control-disease groups (P=0.001), exercise-disease (P=0.001) and exercise-healthy (P=0.002), control-disease with exercise-disease (P=0.012) and exercise-healthy (P=0.001), exercise-healthy with exercise-disease (P=0.002) was.
According to graph 2, it can be seen that there is no significant difference in TGFβ1 variable in all four groups (p=0.068). However, by comparing the averages, it is found that the amount of TGFβ1 protein has decreased by 49.1968% in the patient-exercise group after high-intensity intermittent swimming exercise compared to the control-patient group. Meanwhile, this protein in the exercise-healthy group was reduced by 45.2741% compared to the control-patient. Figure 1 shows the protein bands related to TGFβ1 protein.
Discussion and conclusion: The results of the present research showed that high-intensity intermittent swimming exercises reduce inflammatory and fibrotic factors, and in general, it can be concluded that eight weeks of high-intensity intermittent swimming exercises improve the inflammatory and fibrotic factors associated with non-alcoholic steatohepatitis. . However, to obtain a definitive result, this type of exercise should be studied in human studies in this patient community.
Appreciation and thanks: This article is taken from the master's thesis in sports physiology (first author) of Zand Institute of Higher Education, Shiraz, with ethics code IR.SUMS.REHAB.REC.1400.008. In the end, we sincerely thank all friends and colleagues who helped us during the stages of this research.
Conflict of interest:The authors of this article have no mutual benefit from its publication.
Authors' share (participation rate): All four authors participated in the preparation of this article.
Key words: high-intensity swimming interval training, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, tumor necrosis factor alpha, transforming growth factor beta
Dr. Maryam Arabloei Sani, Dr. Zahra Hajebrahimi, Dr. Parichehreh Yaghmaei, Dr. Nasim Hayati Roodbari,
Volume 26, Issue 5 (December & January 2023)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Diabetes is a type of metabolic disease and one of the most common endocrine diseases. Oxidative stress and inflammation play an important role in the development and progression of diabetes. mTOR signaling pathway play an important role in glucose homeostasis and proliferation of pancreatic beta cells. In the present study, the therapeutic effects of p-cymene on oxidative stress markers and expression of the mTOR gene in diabetic male Wistar rats were investigated.
Materials and Methods: Diabetes was induced by injecting 55 mg/kg body weight of streptozotocin. Biochemical analyses of pancreatic tissue and real-time PCR were done to investigate the effects of metformin (55 mg/kg body weight) and p-cymene (25, 50, and 100 mg/kg body weight) on the activities of catalase and glutathione peroxidase enzymes and mTOR gene expression.
Findings: Streptozotocin decreased catalase and glutathione peroxidase enzymes and decreased the expression of the mTOR gene in pancreatic tissue. Treatment with metformin or p-cymene improved the activities of catalase and glutathione peroxidase enzymes and the expression of the mTOR gene in a dose-independent manner.
Conclusion: Results indicate that p-cymene has antioxidant properties and can regulate the mTOR signaling pathway. Therefore, p-cymene may be effective for the treatment of diabetes alone or in combination with metformin.
Fateme Halalkhor, Ameneh Poorrahim, Marefat Siahkouhian,
Volume 26, Issue 5 (December & January 2023)
Abstract
Introduction: Anti-cytokine considerations in COVID-19 patients can play a significant role in preventing death, therefore, physical activity by reducing risk factors, as well as saffron with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, are considered as anti-cytokine solutions. Therefore, the purpose of this research is to investigate the effect of saffron supplementation and endurance training on the concentration of interleukin-6, interleukin-10 and L-cysteine in outpatients with coronavirus.
Methods: The statistical population of this research is outpatients with coronavirus, 36 of whom were randomly selected. Cytokines and L-cysteine were measured using a special kit and ELISA method. The research hypotheses were checked at a significance level of P < 0.05 using ANOVA test with repeated measurements with between-group factor.
Results: The results showed that endurance activity and saffron supplementation caused a significant decrease in IL-6 levels and the ratio of interleukin 6 to interleukin 10 (P ≥ 0.05). Also, endurance activity along with saffron supplementation caused a significant increase in serum L-cysteine concentration (P = 0.035). The results showed that there is no interaction effect between the measurement stages and the group, as well as intra-group and inter-group differences in interleukin-10 variables (P = 0.511).
Conclusions: The levels of IL-6 and IL-10 decrease due to saffron supplementation and endurance training, and the amount of L-cysteine increases, which helps the recovery of COVID-19 patients.
Amir Hossein Zahirnia, Amir Lorzadeh, Hassan Nasirian, Behroz Davari,
Volume 26, Issue 6 (February & March 2024)
Abstract
Introduction: Head lice (Pediculus capitis) infestation is considered an important hygienic problem in developing countries. The aim of study was to compare 1% permethrin shampoo and 4% dimethicone lotion effects for treatment of infected head lice students in primary girl schools in Gotvand County, Khuzestan province.
Methods: The studied population was first- to sixth-grade students in elementary schools. Positive cases with head lice after identification (304 persons) were randomly divided into two treatment groups. Permethrin shampoo and dimethicone lotion were allocated for the first and the second groups, respectively. The drug therapeutic effects were studied after 7, 14 and 21 days after treatment. Data were analyzed by Chi-square test using SPSS software.
Ethical Considerations: This study was approved by the Ethics Committee of Hamadan University of Medical Sciences (Code: IR.UMSHA.REC.1399.778).
Results: In total, 304 students participated in the study. The age of students ranged between 7 and 12 years which 47.7% of them were between 7 and 8 years. Also 60.9 and 39.1% of them were in urban and rural schools, respectively. The drug effectiveness were 46.1, 69.5 and 100, and 77.6, 85.3 and 100% for permethrin and dimethicone in the first, second and third intervals after treatment, respectively. There was a significant difference between the effect of drugs in the first interval (P = 0.00) after treatment but there was not a significant difference between the second (P = 0.084) and the third (P = 0.43) intervals after treatment.
Conclusions: It is recommended the use of dimethicone lotion and permethrin shampoo as the first and second option, respectively in eliminating the head lice infestation in primary girl schools.
Ali Rahimi, Behzad Hamedani, Nasrin Rasoulzadeh,
Volume 27, Issue 1 (3-2024)
Abstract
Introduction: Nurses have a prominent position in providing healthcare services. There is an undeniable relationship between nurses' professional self-concept and providing care to patients. This study was conducted to investigate the relationship between professional self-concept and the lifestyle of nurses in selected hospitals of Mazandaran cities.
Methods: This descriptive study was conducted using a stratified sampling method with a proportional allocation of 200 nurses working in hospitals affiliated with Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences in 2015. Data collection tools included a demographic information form, a nurse professional self-concept questionnaire, and a nurses' lifestyle questionnaire. Data analysis was done with a significance level of P ≤ 0.05. Pearson's correlation coefficient was used to determine the relationship between professional self-concept and nurses' lifestyle.
Results: The mean score of nurses' professional self-concept and a lifestyle was 156.55 ± 19.37 and 216.42 ± 5.88, respectively. There was also a significant direct relationship between professional self-concept and nurses' lifestyle.
Conclusions: Considering the confirmation of positive correlation between professional self-concept and the lifestyle of nurses, nursing managers can promote healthy lifestyles in nurses by promoting professional self-concept.
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.
Parvin Roosta, Sayed Abdollah Sadat Bahreinian, Ghasem Ahi, Mohammad Hassan Ghanifar,
Volume 27, Issue 5 (12-2024)
Abstract
Introduction: One of the problems during adolescence is the existence of conflict with parents, which creates object relationships and feelings of shame and guilt in them. This research was conducted to determine the effectiveness of treatment based on the mentalization of object relations and feelings of shame and guilt in conflicting mother-child relationships.
Methods: This research method was semi-experimental and pre-test-post-test with a control group. The statistical population of this research included all mothers and adolescents with conflicting relationships who were referred to counseling centers in Shiraz in 2022. By using the available sampling method, 30 people from the mentioned community were selected as a sample and were randomly divided into two experimental (15 people) and control (15 people) groups. Asadi et al.'s parent-child conflict questionnaires (2010), Bell's object relations (1995), and Cohen et al.'s (2011) feelings of shame and guilt were used to collect information. The experimental group underwent executive function training for 13 sessions twice a week for 60 minutes, and the control group did not receive any training. The research data was analyzed using correlation.
Results: The mean ± standard deviation of the experimental group in the post-test in the variable of object relations from 1.5 ± 1.37 to 28.6 ± 4.3 and in the variable of shame and guilt from 5 ± 1.60 to 5.60 ± 3. 51.2 ± 9.1 decreased. The results showed that in the post-test stage, the mean scores of object relations and feelings of shame and guilt in the experimental group decreased significantly compared to the control group (P < 0.01).
Conclusions: Treatment based on mentalization was effective in improving object relationships and reducing feelings of shame and guilt. Therefore, this treatment can be suggested to reduce the conflict between adolescents and mothers.
Ahmad Ansarifar, Isaac Rahimian-Boogar, Siavash Talepasand,
Volume 27, Issue 6 (1-2025)
Abstract
Introduction: Sociodemographic factors and perceived anxiety have a significant impact on the development of somatic symptom disorder. This study aimed to investigate the role of demographic characteristics, social isolation, and perceived anxiety in predicting somatic symptom disorder.
Methods: In a cross-sectional descriptive study among adults aged 18 to 60 in Tehran in 2023, 437 participants were selected based on convenience sampling. The participants completed the Somatic Symptom Disorder Questionnaire (SSEQ), Social Isolation Questionnaire, and Perceived Anxiety Questionnaire. Data were analyzed using Pearson’s correlation and multiple regression analysis.
Results: The results indicated that social isolation and perceived anxiety have a positive and significant correlation with somatic symptoms disorder (P < 0.01). There was no correlation between demographic characteristics (age, gender, marital status, education, and employment status) and somatic symptoms (P <0.01). Multiple correlation and regression coefficients among research variables were statistically significant (P < 0.01).
Conclusions: The examined model was almost able to predict 22% of the somatic symptoms of the disorder. The results have implications for formulating interventions based on social isolation and perceived anxiety in controlling somatic symptoms. It is essential to pay attention to social isolation and perceived anxiety in the formulation and implementation of interventions and educational programs for the prevention and improvement of somatic symptom disorder.
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.
Ebrahim Mohammadi, Laya Hooshmand, Arash Masumi,
Volume 28, Issue 1 (3-2025)
Abstract
Introduction: Novel antidiabetic medications are employed to manage glycemic control and mitigate the long-term complications of type 2 diabetes. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of adverse events, including hypoglycemia, associated with these novel antidiabetic agents in a cohort of patients with type 2 diabetes.
Methods: This cross-sectional analytical study was conducted on 157 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus attending the Endocrinology Clinic at Imam Khomeini Hospital, Urmia, during the summer of 2024. A convenience sampling method was employed to recruit participants. Data on demographics, the incidence of hypoglycemia, and reported adverse drug reactions were collected from all eligible patients through a structured interview. Subsequently, patients were stratified into three treatment groups based on the specific novel antidiabetic medication they received.
Results: In patients receiving sitagliptin, the most prevalent adverse events included arthralgia and rheumatic problems (26.31%), dermatological manifestations (36.84%), and allergic reactions (21.06%). Nausea (52.94%) and abdominal pain (17.65%) were the most frequent adverse events observed in patients treated with liraglutide. Polydipsia (28.72%), weakness and lethargy (26.6%), and dry mucous membranes (27.66%) were commonly reported in patients receiving empagliflozin. Hypoglycemia was observed predominantly in male patients aged 51-55 years receiving sitagliptin.
Conclusions: The findings of this study demonstrate a low incidence of hypoglycemia among patients treated with modern antidiabetic medications. Prevalent short-term adverse events observed included gastrointestinal disturbances, allergic reactions, and dermatological manifestations.
Mohammad Javad Gouran, Soodeh Hooshmandi, Sajjad Rahimi Pordanjani,
Volume 28, Issue 3 (8-2025)
Abstract
Introduction: An echogenic intracardiac focus (EIF) is one of the most common non-structural findings on fetal ultrasound, typically detected between 18 and 20 weeks of gestation. EIF is often considered a soft marker in prenatal screening. However, its association with maternal risk factors—particularly endocrine disorders such as hypothyroidism—remains unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of hypothyroidism in pregnant women carrying fetuses with EIF and to investigate its correlation with other clinical variables.
Methods: In this cross-sectional study conducted from September 2022 to September 2023 at Amir-al-Momenin Hospital in Semnan, Iran, 100 pregnant women with fetuses diagnosed with EIF confirmed by fetal echocardiography were evaluated. Maternal demographic data, medical history, and fetal sex were collected and statistically analyzed.
Results: The mean maternal age was 41.55 ± 4.0 years, and the mean gestational age was 21.4 ± 3.65 weeks. Hypothyroidism was observed in 7% of the mothers and showed a statistically significant association with the presence of fetal EIF (P = 0.00). Furthermore, hypothyroidism was also significantly associated with underlying maternal diseases and fetal sex. However, no significant association was found between hypothyroidism and maternal age or gestational age.
Conclusions: The findings indicate a noteworthy prevalence of hypothyroidism among pregnant women carrying fetuses with EIF. These results highlight the importance of evaluating maternal thyroid function during pregnancy, particularly in cases where EIF is detected. Further research is recommended to clarify the underlying mechanisms and potential outcomes of this association.
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 kidney tissue of rats that have been exposed to copper oxide nanoparticles. The research examined how thiamine correlates with the level of kidney damage caused by the intrusion of nanoparticles.
Methods: In this experimental study, forty male Wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups (10 rats per group). Two groups of rats were used as the control group (I) and the thiamine group (II). Rats of group III were administered an intraperitoneal injection of 25 mg/kg body weight of copper oxide nanoparticles for 14 days. Rats in group IV received the same dose of copper oxide nanoparticles along with thiamine (30 mg/kg body weight).
Results: The histopathological findings showed disruption of the arrangement of convoluted tubules and their disintegration and widening of the tubular lumen, cell separation and tubular necrosis in 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 tubules had retained normal structure. Statistically significant differences 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: This study demonstrated that thiamine can be utilized as an effective compound to reduce the damage caused by nanoparticles to kidney tissue and may lead to significant improvement in the health of kidney tissue in individuals suffering from damage caused by these nanoparticles.
Ebrahim Piri, Amirali Jafarnezhadgero, Sajjad Ghadimi Khesht Masjedi, Abbas Ghadimi Khesht Masjedi, Mohammad Eslamzadeh,
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.
Hasan Rahmani, Faezeh Asgari , Abed Asgari, Habiballah Rahimi, Leila Ghanbari-Afra,
Volume 28, Issue 4 (10-2025)
Abstract
Introduction: Maintaining general health and preventing occupational burnout are two fundamental components of individuals' lives, and each can influence the other. Therefore, the present study aims to investigate the relationship between occupational burnout and general health among emergency medical technicians (EMTs).
Methods: This descriptive-analytical study was conducted on 150 EMTs from Qom University of Medical Sciences in 2020, who were selected by a simple random sampling method. Data were collected using the Maslach Burnout Inventory and the Goldberg General Health Questionnaire. Data analysis was performed using descriptive statistics and Pearson correlation coefficient.
Results: Based on the findings of the present study, the average age of participants was 35.14 ± 8.09 years. The average scores for occupational burnout and general health were 57.98 ± 19.28 and 48.26 ± 10.97, respectively. Pearson correlation analysis revealed a significant relationship between occupational burnout and general health (r = 0.613, P < 0.001)
Conclusions: Based on the findings of the present study, occupational burnout and general health among the EMTs were at a moderate level. Higher burnout scores were associated with worsened general health disorders among EMTs. It seems that selecting students interested in prehospital emergency professions can enhance the situation of this feeling in individuals working in this field. Additionally, it is essential for prehospital managers to pay attention to the occupational burnout and general health in order to improve the quality of services provided by the EMTs.
Mitra Rahimzadeh, Noushin Ghavidel, Behrooz Kavehie,
Volume 28, Issue 5 (12-2025)
Abstract
Introduction: The age structure of the population has changed due to a decrease in mortality rates. With the increase in the number of elderly individuals, addressing their physical, mental, and social needs has become essential. It is necessary to have a reliable and valid tool for assessing the health status of this group for developing future policies and planning health interventions. This study aimed to evaluate the psychometric properties of Lali’s Healthy Lifestyle Questionnaire using Item Response Theory (IRT) among the elderly in Karaj City.
Methods: Data collection was done through the distribution of questionnaires and interviews with patients in the health centers of Karaj city. In addition to demographic information, Lali's Healthy Lifestyle Questionnaire (2012) was used to collect data.
Results: The mean (standard deviation) age of the participants in the study was 66.82 (6.59) years. Based on the Akaike Information Criterion (AIC), the Nominal Response Model (NRM) demonstrated a better fit to the data among the common IRT models for Likert-scale questionnaires. Based on this model, out of the 54 items used, 6 items did not meet the acceptable criteria for the discrimination parameter and were excluded from the questionnaire. Based on the total information function, the questionnaire can appropriately differentiate individuals within the ability range of -1.5 to 2.5.
Conclusions: Using Item Response Theory in questionnaire psychometrics helps to reduce the number of unrelated items and increase the accuracy of the measurement tools.
Amirhossein Hormati Oughoulbaig, Ebrahim Piri, Amirali Jafarnezhadgero , Sanaz Alaei,
Volume 28, Issue 5 (12-2025)
Abstract
Introduction: The difference in altitude due to the foot's arch in individuals with pes cavus affects transitional movement parameters and may increase the risk of injury. Therefore, the aim of this study is to examine rehabilitation exercises on the mechanics of transitional movements in individuals with an excessive arch of the foot.
Methods: This study was a narrative review. Articles were searched in both English and Persian languages from April 2015 to September 2024 using databases such as Scopus, PubMed, SID, MDPI, Google Scholar, Web of Science (WOS), and ScienceDirect. Considering the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 68 articles were selected. After a detailed review, 58 articles that did not meet the selection criteria were excluded, and 10 articles were selected for final analysis.
Results: The findings of 5 studies indicated that corrective exercises and rope skipping exercises lead to improved postural control and balance. The results of 2 other studies showed that therapeutic exercises, walking, and running can prevent the occurrence of lower limb injuries. Another study demonstrated that a combination of static stretching and electrical stimulation can be beneficial in managing pes cavus. Additionally, mobilization of the talonavicular and first metatarsophalangeal joints was found to be effective in reducing pain associated with this condition.
Conclusions: It seems that rehabilitation exercises focused on enhancing balance in individuals with excessive foot arch may improve transitional movements, postural control, and reduce the rate of lower limb injuries.
Alireza Khodavandi, Fahimeh Alizadeh, Parisa Rastgo,
Volume 28, Issue 6 (1-2026)
Abstract
Introduction: The emergence of antifungal resistance in Candida albicans diseases poses a threat to global public health. New treatments are needed to target C. albicans and its ability to produce hyphae. The aim of this study was to investigate the potential synergistic effects and antifungal properties of Thymus vulgaris and Trigonella foenum-graecum extracts alone and in combination on C. albicans.
Methods: In this experimental study, extracts of Thymus vulgaris and Trigonella foenum-graecum were prepared using hot water (60 °C) and Soxhlet extraction with methanol (10%). Yeast susceptibility testing was performed according to the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute disk diffusion and broth microdilution guidelines. The hyphal model was created in the presence of alcoholic extracts of Thymus vulgaris and Trigonella foenum-graecum alone and in combination. Crystal violet staining, microscopic observation and gene expression analysis were used to evaluate the inhibition of hyphal growth.
Results: The results showed that 90% of the C. albicans isolates were resistant to fluconazole. Aqueous and alcoholic extracts of Thymus vulgaris in combination with Trigonella foenum-graecum showed synergistic, partially synergistic and additive effects. Alcoholic extracts of Thymus vulgaris with Trigonella foenum-graecum alone and in combination have anti-hyphae activity by reducing the percentage of hyphae, reducing the number of planktonic cells and the transition of planktonic cells to hyphae, and down-regulating the Secreted Aspartyl Proteinase 1 (SAP1) gene.
Conclusions: Taken together, these results indicate that extracts of Thymus vulgaris alone and in combination with Trigonella foenum-graecum may offer a potent alternative strategy to combat resistant C. albicans infections and their ability to reduce hyphae formation. Additionally, the SAP1 gene could be a likely target in the synergistic interaction of alcoholic extracts of Thymus vulgaris in combination with Trigonella foenum-graecum against the C. albicans hyphae model.
Mohammad Parastesh, Ali Yasavoli Sharahi, Jalil Moradi, Behzad Aria,
Volume 28, Issue 6 (1-2026)
Abstract
Introduction: Physical and cognitive fitness are crucial in futsal, making the identification of effective training methods essential. This study aimed to investigate the effects of two high-intensity interval training (HIIT) protocols on plasma brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels, working memory, and selected physical fitness factors (aerobic and anaerobic capacity) in adolescent futsal players.
Methods: This semi-experimental study was conducted on 15–16-year-old futsal players from Arak city with at least three years of club experience (approved by Arak University Ethics Committee, code: IR.ARAKU.RCE.1401.027). Twenty-four participants were randomly assigned to HIIT1 (10×1-minute intervals with 1-minute rest) or HIIT2 (3×4-minute intervals with 2-minute rest) groups, training for eight weeks. Aerobic capacity, anaerobic capacity, plasma BDNF levels, and working memory were assessed pre- and post-intervention. Data were analyzed using Paired and Independent T-tests (p <0.05).
Results: The HIIT1 group showed significant improvements in aerobic capacity (p=0.001) and BDNF levels (p=0.001). Similarly, HIIT2 demonstrated significant increases in aerobic capacity (p=0.001), anaerobic capacity (p=0.014), and BDNF levels (p=0.001). Working memory showed no significant changes in either group (p=0.780), with no between-group differences observed.
Conclusions: Both HIIT protocols significantly improved aerobic capacity and BDNF levels, while only HIIT2 enhanced anaerobic capacity. Neither protocol affected working memory. HIIT appears effective for enhancing physiological and physical fitness factors in adolescent futsal players.
Shirin Irani, Mohammadreza Firouzifar, Farrokh Heidari, Hamed Abdollahi,
Volume 28, Issue 6 (1-2026)
Abstract
COVID-19 is caused by SARS-CoV-2 and has been declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization. One of the diagnostic methods is performing a swab test from the nasopharynx, which carries a risk of complications. In this article, we present a patient who developed cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage from the nose following a COVID-19 test. A 54-year-old woman presented with unilateral nasal rhinorrhea after undergoing the swab. A skull base defect was identified on computed tomography (CT) scan. The defect was repaired via an endoscopic approach using periumbilical fibro-fatty tissue. This case highlights the need to standardize protocols for performing swab tests.
