About IJWPH
Biophysical and Clinical Effect of Low-Level Laser Therapy on Psoriatic Skin Lesions
Materials & Methods: This research was conducted as a clinical experiment using a split-body design in the Department of Dermatology of Al-Sadr Teaching Hospital, Najaf, Iraq, from January to November 2023. The study included 40 individuals with mild, chronic plaque psoriasis. Participants received either active laser treatment (diode laser, 660nm) or placebo. Clinical and biophysical evaluations were performed.
Findings: The Local Psoriasis Severity Index showed a considerably greater reduction in active treatment plaques than in sham-treated plaques during week 8, from 8.1±1.4 to 3.3±1.2 for active plaques, while sham-treated plaques decreased only from 8.0±1.5 to 6.7±1.6. Active treatment resulted in significantly greater reductions in erythema, scaling, plaque thickness and area, itching, transepidermal water loss, erythema index, and surface temperature than the sham technique. Stratum corneum hydration also increased significantly. 70% of patients with active plaques achieved at least 50% local severity reduction. Positive effects persisted four weeks after treatment, and no serious side effects were noted.
Conclusion: Low-level laser therapy has noticeable clinical and biophysical benefits for patients with localized chronic plaque psoriasis.
Oxidative Stress, Antioxidant Defense, Insulin Resistance, and Inflammatory Biomarkers in Patients with Metabolic Syndrome
Materials & Methods: This prospective case-control study was conducted at Baghdad Central Hospital, Baghdad, Iraq, from January 2025 to March 2026 on 128 participants, including 64 patients with metabolic syndrome, predominantly characterized by insulin resistance, and 64 healthy controls. Body mass index, waist circumference, blood pressure, fasting glucose, glycated hemoglobin, fasting insulin, HOMA-IR, lipid profile, malondialdehyde, thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (TBARS), superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, reduced glutathione, interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor-α, C-reactive protein, and erythrocyte sedimentation rate were measured. Case-control comparisons and Welch ANOVA were performed in R software with false discovery rate correction.
Findings: After false discovery rate correction, 22 of the 24 variables differed significantly between the groups, whereas age and catalase did not. The largest standardized differences were observed for the number of metabolic-syndrome components (Hedges’ g=4.77), TBARS (8.89±0.61 vs. 5.95±0.67 nmol/mL; g=4.56), fasting insulin (g=3.39), HOMA-IR (8.85±3.10 vs. 1.87±0.54; g=3.11), fasting glucose (g=3.09), and body mass index (g=2.95). Patients also had higher interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-α and lower superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, reduced glutathione, and HDL cholesterol. HOMA-IR was positively correlated with oxidative-stress and inflammatory markers.
Conclusion: Metabolic syndrome is associated with substantial alterations in biomarkers of oxidative stress, antioxidant defense, inflammation, and insulin resistance, supporting their relevance to metabolic dysfunction and disease characterization.
Effectiveness of Physical Activity on Preventing the Risk of Recurrent Stroke in Medan City Hospital
Aims: This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of technology-based health education in improving the knowledge and preparedness of patients' families for early detection of stroke symptoms.
Instrument & Methods: The study used a quantitative design with a cross-sectional approach involving 100 respondents from five referral hospitals in Medan City. Data collection was carried out using a Likert scale questionnaire to measure the level of knowledge and preparedness of stroke patients' families. Technology-based educational interventions include the use of mobile applications, e-learning platforms, social media, and telemedicine.
Findings: The results showed that all forms of technology-based health education significantly improved respondents' understanding of the early symptoms of stroke and accelerated decision-making when symptoms were identified.
Conclusion: Digital health education has proven to be effective in strengthening early detection of stroke and has the potential to be developed more widely as a strategy to improve the quality of stroke treatment in Indonesia.
Keywords: Digital Health Education, Stroke Early Detection, Family Preparedness, Health Literacy, Technology-Based Intervention
Effects of Six Weeks of Balance-Functional Training Combined with Ginseng Supplementation on Dynamic Balance, Flexibility, Functional Capacity, and Physical Function in Older Adults
Methods: Thirty-six older adults were randomly split into three groups of 12: training plus ginseng, training alone, and control. The training groups did balance-functional exercises for six weeks, three sessions per week. The supplement group took 300 to 500 mg of ginseng daily. Dynamic balance was measured with the TUG test, flexibility with the Sit and Reach test, functional capacity with the 6-minute walk test, and physical function with the SPPB. Data were analyzed using Mixed ANOVA and Bonferroni post-hoc tests (P < 0.05).
Results: In the training plus ginseng group, all variables got better (P < 0.001).Dynamic balance time dropped by 18.82%. Flexibility rose by 32.56%. Functional capacity went up by 18.27%. Physical function grew by 50.54%. The training-only group also improved, but less. The control group showed no changes. Mixed ANOVA showed a significant group × time interaction for all variables (P < 0.001).Post-hoc tests showed that the combined group differed from the training-only group in flexibility, functional capacity, and physical function (P < 0.001).
Conclusion: Combining balance-functional training with ginseng supplementation led to greater improvements in flexibility, functional capacity, and physical function compared to training alone. In dynamic balance, the difference between the two groups was not significant. These findings suggest that this combination may help improve some physical function outcomes in older adults.
The Effectiveness of Legal Laws and Regulations in the Healthcare Domain for Chemical Warfare Veterans
Instrument & Methods: This research is descriptive and correlational in nature, and quantitative based on the type of data, utilizing a survey study. The research data were collected using a researcher-made questionnaire derived from two theoretical approaches: the "Goal Achievement Approach" and the "Stakeholder Satisfaction Approach" regarding existing healthcare laws. Using Cochran’s sample size estimation formula and proportional stratified sampling, 381 chemical veterans in Tehran were selected. For validity assessment, qualitative content validity was used, and for reliability, internal consistency of items was measured using Cronbach’s alpha test (ranging from 0 to 1). The extracted data were analyzed and described using SPSS 23 and Smart_PLS3 software in two sections: descriptive analysis and inferential analysis.
Findings: Inferential findings show a significant difference between the current status and the desired status of the effectiveness of legal laws and regulations in the healthcare domain for chemical veterans in Tehran at the 0.01 error level (P<0.01). Additionally, the overall empirical reflective measurement model of the effectiveness of legal laws and regulations in the healthcare domain among chemical veterans in Tehran demonstrates desirable fit and similarity to the theoretical model.
Conclusion: This study showed that legal laws and regulations in the healthcare domain for chemical warfare veterans are effective in terms of achieving legal goals; however, they require improvement in terms of stakeholder satisfaction.
Sleep Quality and Mental Toughness Among Adults in Yazd Province During Wartime: The Role of Perceived Physical Literacy – A Cross-Sectional Study
Methods and Materials: This descriptive-correlational study was conducted on 128 adults aged 18 to 60 years (67 men and 61 women) in Yazd province during late March–early April 2026. Participants were selected through convenience sampling and completed the Perceived Physical Literacy Assessment Scale (PLAS), the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), and the Clough Mental Toughness Questionnaire (MTQ). Data were analyzed using Pearson correlation coefficient and regression analysis.
Findings: The results showed that physical literacy had a significant relationship with sleep quality (r= -0.50, P< 0.01) and mental toughness (r = 0.48, P< 0.01). Regression results indicated that physical literacy explained 25% of the variance in sleep quality (β = -0.48, t = -5.99, p < 0.001) and 21% of the variance in mental toughness (β = 0.50, t = 6.05, p < 0.001), respectively.
Conclusion: Among this convenience sample of adults in Yazd province, higher perceived physical literacy was associated with lower PSQI scores and higher MTQ. However, due to the cross-sectional and self-reported nature of the study, causality cannot be established.
Posttraumatic Stress Symptoms and Posttraumatic Growth in Iranian Veterans and Civilians with Spinal Cord Injury An Exploratory Comparative Cross Sectional Study
Methods: An exploratory comparative cross-sectional study included 49 married men in Tehran, Iran, comprising 29 veterans and 20 civilians. Data were collected using the 17-item DSM-IV PTSD Checklist, Posttraumatic Growth Inventory, 75-item Young Schema Questionnaire–Short Form, General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-28), WHOQOL-BREF, and Spiritual Intelligence Self-Report Inventory. Independent-samples t tests and multivariate analyses of variance were used for unadjusted comparisons.
Results: Veterans were older (52.93 versus 45.80 years) and had a longer injury duration (31.72 versus 11.20 years). PTSD symptom scores were lower in veterans (39.55 ± 14.98 versus 45.90 ± 11.15), but the difference was not statistically significant, t(47) = −1.611, p = .114. PTG scores were nearly identical (70.83 ± 15.94 versus 71.25 ± 20.35), t(47) = −0.081, p = .935. Exploratory secondary analyses indicated lower disconnection/rejection and impaired autonomy/performance scores in veterans. Veterans also had lower GHQ-28 scores, indicating less psychological distress. Quality of life and spiritual intelligence did not differ significantly in the individual outcome comparisons.
Conclusions: The study did not establish a difference in PTSD symptoms or PTG between the groups. Secondary differences in schemas and psychological distress warrant further investigation. Small, unequal groups and substantial differences in age and injury duration limit interpretation.
A Systematic Review of the Effectiveness of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder in Military Personnel and Their Spouses
Aims: Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a prevalent and disabling mental health condition among military personnel and veterans that also affects spouses and families. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) has emerged as a promising intervention for improving psychological flexibility and reducing trauma-related distress. This systematic review evaluated the effectiveness of ACT for PTSD among military personnel, veterans, and their spouses.
Methods: This systematic review was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Electronic searches were performed in PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, PsycINFO, SID, and Magiran from database inception through May 25, 2026. Two independent reviewers screened studies, extracted data, and assessed methodological quality using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT 2018).
Findings: Fifteen studies were included. ACT was associated with reductions in PTSD symptoms, anxiety, depression, experiential avoidance, psychological distress, and alcohol-related problems, while improving psychological flexibility, resilience, quality of life, and social functioning. Evidence consistently supported the effectiveness of ACT among military personnel and veterans, whereas evidence for military spouses remained limited.
Conclusion: ACT appears to be a promising intervention for PTSD and related psychological difficulties in military personnel and veterans. However, additional large-scale randomized controlled trials with longer follow-up periods, particularly involving military spouses and families, are needed to strengthen the current evidence base.
Twenty-Year Epidemiological Surveillance of Crimean–Congo Hemorrhagic Fever in Northern Iran: Evidence Supporting a One Health Approach
Aim: Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever (CCHF) is a tick-borne viral zoonosis reported in several provinces of Iran. This study describes the demographic, occupational, exposure-related, clinical, and laboratory characteristics of CCHF cases recorded by the surveillance system in Guilan Province, northern Iran, using the One Health approach. Methods: We conducted a retrospective descriptive analysis of surveillance records from 2003 to 2023. Data were summarized using descriptive statistics. Results: There were 153 laboratory- confirmed cases of CCHF recorded. Of these cases, 121 cases (79.1% ) were male and 32(20.9%) were female. Of the diagnosed CCHF patients, approximately 60% were between the ages of 40 and 70 years. Most of the cases were reported in workstations that were situated in rural regions. Agents responsible for CCHF transmission had direct contact with infected wildlife and tick bites. Nine deaths were reported, corresponding to a case-fatality proportion of 5.9%, demonstrating an increase in the number of cases noted in the last five years of the study. Conclusion: The findings describe reported human cases and may inform priorities for surveillance and prevention. Because animal, tick-vector, and environmental data were not directly measured, the One Health implications should be interpreted as recommendations for integrated surveillance rather than direct evidence of cross-sector transmission in endemic areas.
The Meaning of Life in the Lived Experiences of War-Injured Veterans in Tehran: A Phenomenological Study
Integration of Mindfulness-Based Interventions in Psychiatric Nursing: Its Impact on Patient Outcomes and Nurse Wellbeing
Instrument & Methods: This study employed a quantitative design using Partial Least Squares-based Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) and involved 150 respondents from Tikung Community Health Centre and Deket Community Health Centre, Lamongan Regency, East Java Province. Data were collected through a questionnaire tested for validity and reliability.
Findings: The analysis results indicate that all constructs significantly affect the dependent variable, with the highest coefficient value shown by the integration of mindfulness into care planning (β = 0.569). These findings suggest that the systematic and organizationally supported implementation of mindfulness can enhance the effectiveness of mental health services and strengthen nurses' adaptive capacity.
Conclusion: The structural equation modeling (SEM) findings confirmed that all dimensions of mindfulness integration—ranging from program alignment with practice standards (β = 0.252; p = 0.050), frequency of clinical technique application (β = 0.359; p = 0.041), institutional support (β = 0.299; p = 0.028), level of training (β = 0.430; p = 0.012), nurses’ engagement in personal practice (β = 0.369; p = 0.033), to integration into care planning (β = 0.569; p = 0.082)—statistically contributed positively to outcomes.
Persistence of Hypervigilance in Iranian Society After the 12-Day War: Letter to Editor
Analysis of The Hospital Preparedness Index in Responding to Disasters Based on The Hospital Safety Index and Its Influencing Factors at RSUD Haji Makassar
Materials and Methods: A mixed-methods approach with a sequential explanatory design was employed. Quantitative data were obtained using the HSI questionnaire, which focused on hospital facilities and infrastructure, while qualitative data were collected through purposive sampling involving in-depth interviews with key informants. Four key informants participated in this study, consisting of Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) staff and Non-Medical Facilities Maintenance Installation staff, with the OHS Committee serving as triangulation.
Findings: The hospital’s structural preparedness scored 0.65 on the HSI, signifying a moderate level of resilience. In-depth interviews revealed that budget constraints and the hospital’s prioritization of improving health services were the main barriers to enhancing structural preparedness.
Conclusion: Despite a moderate level of preparedness, further improvements are required in safety standards, emergency response capacity, and disaster management. Strengthening these aspects will enhance the hospital’s resilience in managing future disasters.
The Efficacy Of Closed Kinematic Exercise With Blood Flow Restriction Therapy On Pain And Functional Performance In Subjects With Patellofemoral Pain: A Quasi-Experimental Study
METHODS: A total of 46 subjects were selected with patellofemoral pain in which 30 participants were selected based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. The subjects underwent of closed kinematic exercise with blood flow restriction therapy, with pain and functional performances were assessed using The Numerical Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) and The Anterior knee pain scale (AKPS) before and after the intervention. The pre and post-test values were analysed using SPSS version 30.0
FINDINGS: Significant improvements were noted in pain and function after the BRFT with CKE intervention. NPRS scores decreased from 8.27 ± 0.69 to 3.40 ± 0.56 (t = 32.535, p < 0.001), while AKPS scores increased from 43.33 ± 10.86 to 87.53 ± 4.94 (t = 17.826, p < 0.001), indicating marked pain reduction and functional gains.
CONCLUSION: The study revealed encouraging results, highlighting the effectiveness of combining blood flow restriction therapy with closed kinematic exercises for individuals suffering from patellofemoral pain.
The average time to reach a traumatic patient and factors affecting the ambulance response time of traumatic accidents in Sabzevar
Method: This cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted on 379 Emergency 115 missions related to traumatic injured people caused by accidents in Sabzevar City.
Results: The average ART was 8.4 minutes with a deviation of 7.4. Considering the very high and low times, the non-normality of variable distribution in the study, the mean, and the interquartile range also revealed that the average ART was 6 minutes, with a confidence interval of 7.6-9.2 for the mean. A significant relationship was observed between ART and the accident location so that this variable was longer in residential areas than in other zones.A significant relationship was also found between ART and the personnel's education level.A significant relationship was observed between ART and traffic volume. In addition,a significant relationship was found between ART and the traveled distance.With an increase of one kilometer, ART increased by an average of 20 seconds.There were no significant relationships between ART and the day/time of the accident, the type of dispatch vehicles, and the personnel's work experience.
Conclusion: The average ART is among the essential factors in assessing the quality of emergency services. The estimated ART value is close to the standard in Sabzevar City. However,a response time of <8 minutes was recorded in only 63% of cases,which is far from the standard(80%).
Impact of Short-Term Armed Conflicts on Bacterial Transmission and Public Health: The Case of the 12-Day War in Iran
Drawing on patterns from conflicts like Yemen, where over 1 million cholera cases were reported from 2016–2019 [1], the Iran scenario suggests damaged water systems and overcrowded shelters could lead to a 20% surge in waterborne infections, potentially affecting 50,000 displaced individuals. Gram-negative bacteria, including Vibrio cholerae, Salmonella spp., and Escherichia coli, thrive in such conditions, with multidrug-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa complicating treatment [2]. Women and children face heightened risks due to poor hygiene and limited healthcare access [3]. Key risk factors include poor inter-agency coordination, inconsistent water quality monitoring, and inadequate antimicrobial stewardship. To mitigate these, we recommend: (1) conflict-specific health emergency protocols; (2) continuous water treatment in displacement settings; and (3) strengthened antimicrobial stewardship.
A Scientific Evaluation for Military Medical Services in the Russia-Ukraine War
Information & Methods: This systematic review was conducted by examining scientific articles published between 2021 and 2023, obtained by searching the sentences "Military Health Services in the Russia-Ukraine War" and "War Casualties in the Russia-Ukraine War." Additionally, military medical literature and military medical news from China, Iran, the United Kingdom, Belarus, and the United States were examined and interpreted.
Findings: The Russia-Ukraine war differs from conventional wars and counterterrorism operations regarding military healthcare. Diversity of front depth, frequency of mass and polytrauma, difficulties in medevac, and the loss of medical personnel were found to be noteworthy as the main problems for both Russia and Ukraine in this expanding hybrid war. Attacks on health facilities and medical personnel were also one of the basic attack strategies in this war, as in all wars.
Conclusion: Medical examination and vaccination for attending to the army, medevac distances, the safety of medevac routes, loss of medical facilities and medical personnel, lack of communication between medical units, the load of medical facilities deployed in route migration mandatorily, non-standardized first aid applying and absence of medical intelligence are main problem areas about medical services in Russia -Ukraine War. It has been stated that the military medical system is an important power protector and "Force Multiplier".
Effect of Emergency Nurses’ Work Stress, Workload, and Motivation on Emergency Severity Index Implementation
Instrument & Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at the X Regional General Hospital with a sample of 72 emergency room nurses. The questionnaires were validated to assess work stress, workload, motivation, and Emergency Severity Index implementation. Data were analyzed through descriptive statistics and multiple linear regression to ascertain the relationship between the explanatory variables (including work stress, workload, and motivation) and the dependent variable (Emergency Severity Index implementation).
Findings: All three independent variables and Emergency Severity Index implementation had statistically significant positive relationships. The final model revealed workload as the strongest variable (B=0.14; p=0.002), followed by work stress (B=0.24; p=0.015) and motivation (B=0.1; p=0.046). The regression model accounted for 27% of the variability in Emergency Severity Index implementation (adjusted R2=0.27).
Conclusion: Workload is the most significant factor affecting Emergency Severity Index implementation, followed by work stress and motivation.
Resistance Training and Its Impact on Blood Glucose, Testosterone, FSH, and LH Levels in Men with Type 2 Diabetes
Materials & Methods: This semi-experimental study included 20 men with type 2 diabetes (aged 45-60 years) who were randomly assigned to the resistance training or the control groups (n=10 per group). The training group participated in an eight-week supervised program targeting major muscle groups. Blood samples were collected pre- and post-intervention to measure blood glucose, testosterone, luteinizing hormone, and follicle-stimulating hormone levels. Data were analyzed by SPSS 26 using the mixed ANOVA and an independent t-test.
Findings: The resistance training group demonstrated significant improvements (p<0.05) in blood glucose, testosterone, and luteinizing hormone levels compared to the control group and baseline measurements. No significant changes were observed in follicle-stimulating hormone (p>0.05).
Conclusion: Eight weeks of resistance training enhance blood glucose control and gonadal function in men with type 2 diabetes.
Examining the effects of ’bad’ and ‘good’ fitting conditions supracondylar PTB socket on interface pressure and comfort of unilateral transtibial amputees: Case Study
Background: Changes in the volume and shape of the stump causes difficulties in maintaining A comfortable and exact fit. Improper fit causes pain, discomfort and movement between stump and socket. There is not enough document to identify how much volume fluctuation causes fitting problem . To identify and understand the relationship between the changes of interface pressure between stump and socket with mentally feeling of amputees in "good" and "bad" fitting conditions.
Method and Material: The study was conducted on two below knee amputees. The method has 2similar stages, SCS was evaluated at both stages with the difference that one was done in bad and other in good fitting condition. To examine stump-socket interface pressure at each stage,static tests with applying half and full body weight to the artifical limb and walking tests were done.
Results: With volume reduction, it seems adding several sock layers to improve fitting condition (force couple correction)imposes high interface pressure to patellar tendon and fibular head which lowers amputees feeling of comfort. Without adding sock layers,stump movement to distal causes unbearable pressure to the distal of tibia.
Conclusion: In static tests, interface pressure increased in good fitting condition at patellar tendon and popliteal region. Walking tests in good fitting condition showed less movement between stump and socket and less improper pressure. Using too many layers of socks to improve fitting causes intolareable interface pressure at regions such as petellar tendon and fibular head.
Risk Factors Predicting Hypertension in the Elderly
Instrument & Methods: In this cross-sectional, all patients who visited and received treatment at the general polyclinic and were registered in the Neglasari Health Centre’s report registration were investigated. There were 245 respondents in this survey. A basic random strategy was used to collect samples. Data were collected using questionnaires and observation sheets and analyzed by Chi-square test and multiple logistic regression.
Findings: Age (p=0.000), family history (p=0.015), obesity (p=0.0001), physical activity (p=0.003), stress (p=0.000), excessive salt consumption (p=0.007), alcohol drinking (p=0.0001), and inadequate fiber consumption (p=0.0001) were risk factors for hypertension in the elderly. The degree of stress was the most important risk factor for the occurrence of hypertension in the elderly (OR=4.2).
Conclusion: Both non-modifiable (age and family history) and modifiable (obesity, physical activity, stress, excessive salt consumption, alcohol consumption, and low fiber consumption) factors can influence the occurrence of hypertension. Stress is the most significant factor linked to hypertension.
Review of therapeutic effect of trans cranial magnetic stimulation in psychological disorders
Human brain can be stimulated safely and non invasively by powerful magnetic field. This magnetic field causes a current in stimulated tissue, which stimulates the brain neurons. In psychological disorders, focal brain activity is observed in clinical syndromes. Application of trans-cranial magnetic stimulation as a therapeutic technique proposes to change the selective brain activities. Low frequency repetitive trans-cranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is a new method in evaluation and treatment of hyper excitability brain syndromes, which changes brain plasticity. In this review article, therapeutic effect of rTMS in some psychological disease such as depression, post traumatic stress disorder, epilepsy, obsessive compulsive disorder and schizophrenia is discussed.
Frequency of Phantom Pain among patients with Spinal Cord Injury
Summary: Background: Patients with spinal cord injury (SCI) usually have permanent and often devastating neurologic deficits and disability and pain (1). According to the National Institutes of Health, "among neurological disorders, the cost to society of automotive SCI is exceeded only by the cost of mental retardation"(2). Neurogenic pain constitutes one of the enigmatic clinical syndromes faced by patients, clinicians, and researchers (3). Materials and Methods: Current observational descriptive cross-sectional survey is performed among 270 patients with spinal cord injuries including veterans and non-veteran disabled subjects in Tehran-City during 2005. Results: Mean age of the subjects was 37.8±12.2 years. 26.3% were female and 73.7% were male. 17.4% had spinal cord injury in cervical level, 41.5% thoracic, 38.1% lumbar, and 3% Quada Equina level. 76.3% had complete and 23.7% incomplete injuries. 19.3% had injury duration of less than 5 years, 11.9% between 5 to 10 years, and 68.9% upper than 10 years. Phantom pain below the lesion level was present in 89 patients (33%) that included 26% of veterans and 37% of non-veterans. There was a statistically significant association between age, marital status, and injury duration with having phantom pain (P< 0.05). Conclusion: it is concluded that frequency of phantom pain in current study is less than all of previous studies and our patients were totally resistant to analgesic treatments which may be due to physiopathologic basis of such pains in comparison with other pains due to spinal cord injuries.
Tactile and Force Feedback Gloves for Virtual Reality and Telecontrol of Anthropomorphic Manipulators; an Analytic Review
Conclusion: The development of the design of the glove will be implemented using a kinematic scheme based on the kinematics of the human hand, considering the requirements of aesthetics and ergonomics of the solution. As a sensor system, it is planned to use digital Hall sensors with a capacity of up to 14 bits, high speed and, at the same time, small dimensions, allowing them to be installed directly inside the swivel joints.
Energy Storing and -Revealing Prosthetic Feet A Review Study
Aims: Since 1990 a new generation of prosthetic feet as "energy storing" in order to improve the performance and mobility of amputees entered to the markets. The aim of this study was to expansion and explanation of the concept of energy and terms relating to energy transfer as well as an overview of energy storing and returning measurement of prosthetic.
Information & Methods: In this review study, a systematic search of electronic databases, Google Scholar and PubMed was done and papers published from 1950 to 2013 were studied. Key words used were included various combinations of energy analysis, ESAR prosthetic feet and their synonym terms.
Findings: The results obtained from articles classified and examined in the three domains of concepts of energy and energy-related terms, methods of energy analysis in the prosthetic feet and functional classifications and naming of the feet enable to energy storing.
Conclusion: Analysis of the structure and components of prosthesis make it possible to understand how it works. One of the major issues in the analysis of energy transfer of prosthesis is the proper amount of absorption and energy release and the effect of it on amputee. Optimal performance and health of amputee is effective in designing these kinds of prosthesis.
Localization of Hemoxigenase in the epithelium of human air way wall induced by sulfur mustard
Introduction: Sulfur mustard (SM) as an effective chemical agent was used recently in the Iraq war against Iran. Currently more than 40,000 chemical casualty of war left with lung lesions caused by mustard gas.
This combination induce the production of oxygen free radicals are molecules that activate inflammatory processes. Heme Oxigenase is one of the important proteins that decrease the harmful effects of free radicals and involved in many cellular functions such as oxidant/antioxidant system balance in respiratory system.
Methods: 12 biopsy samples of the airway wall (8 chemical samples and 4 control samples) obtain by bronchoscopy. After fixation in Parafrmaldehyd 4%, 20 microns slices were prepared by Cryostat. The expression of HO1, a polymorphism of HO, by immunohistochemistry method in samples of veterans and control groups analysed and were compared.
Results: SM exposed samples were immunonegative for HO1 antibodies in compare to unexposed patients, while Normal ones expressed in high intensity in epithelium as a basal expression.
Conclusion: These findings indicate that this molecule play an important role in protecting cells against oxidative stress, including the poisoning of SM. So it concluded that the absence of this protective factor may be cause for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and continuity of problem.
Social Support and Social Health
Instrument & Methods: This descriptive study was a cross-sectional survey conducted on people of Yasuj in 2016. Four hundred people were selected using the cluster sampling method. A standardized questionnaire for the social support variables was used. The information was coded and entered into SPSS 22 software. Kendall's tau-c test was used to analyze the relationships between variables.
Findings: There were significant relationships between social health and social, family, friends, and others' support (p<0.05).
Conclusion: Social support (family, friends, and others) can help increase the social health of individuals, and it can reduce social harm.
Effectiveness of Emotional Schema Therapy on Cognitive Emotion Regulation Strategies of Combat-Related Post Traumatic Stress Disorder Veterans
Introduction: This study aims to examine the effectiveness of Emotional Schema Therapy on The Emotional Schema & Cognitive Emotion Regulation Strategies of patients suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
Method: 6 patients from the clients of psychiatric clinic of Baqiyatallah hospital, were selected through available sampling, matched together and then divided into 3 groups (Emotional Schema Therapy combined with Medications, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy combined with Medications & Medications) Patients were examined 5 & 3 times by Leahy Emotional Schema Scale (LESS) and the Short Form of Cognitive Emotion Regulation Questionnaire (CERQ-18) and The Persian versions of the Impact of Event Scale-Revise (IES-R). To analyze the data, indexes of effect size, cohen’s d, process changes, slope and interpretation of ups & downs in charts were employed.
Result: After treatment, scores of patients who Emotional Schema Therapy received showed decrease in Negative Emotional Schema(Rumination, guilt, uncontrollability) & Maladaptive Cognitive Emotion Regulation strategies (Self-blaming, Rumination, Catastrophizing) additionally, in some Adaptive Cognitive Emotion Regulation strategies (Positive refocusing, Refocusing on planning, Positive Reappraisal)and Adaptive Emotional Schema (higher values, acceptance, consensus, Comprehensibility) an increase was observed.
Conclusion: Emotional Schema Therapy via targeting directly mechanisms of pathological Emotional Schemas & Maladaptive Cognitive Emotion Regulation strategies. can be appropriate choice for treatment of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
survey of relationship between abnormalities of the spine and spirometric indices of spinal cord injury veterans
Background & Purpose: In addition to any disability, especially spinal cord injury level of sensory and motor performance of shows, other serious complications in other parts of the body, leaving lasting. . One of these complications, the spine is deformed. Many of the deformation of the spine, opening the chest to reduce this mode reduces the vital capacity and respiratory disorders, negative effects on the cardiovascular system and ultimately cause a change in the amount of their lung capacity is. The objective of this study, survey of relationship is between abnormalities of the spine (Lordosis, Kyphosis, scoliosis) and spirometric parameters (FEV1/FVC, FVC, FEV1, FEF75, PEF).
Materials & Methods:For this purpose, the present study was performed on 60 cases of spinal cord injury veterans And spirometric indices including FEV1/FVC, FVC, FEV1, FEF75, PEF was assessed using spirometry. For data analysis descriptive statistics were used and the test of Pearson inferential statistics were used.
Results: Based on survey results, a relation between Lordosis, scoliosis Kyphosis and spirometric indices, the rate and Kyphosis and Lordosis abnormalities was significant
(P<0.05). But there is no significant difference in the rate of scoliosis (P>0.05).
Conclusion: Due to the complications of spinal deformity and subsequent loss of lung volume in the injured spinal cord injury, for deformity correction protocols and a regular exercise program continued to increase indicators lung is recommended.
The effect of lateral wedge insole with and without subtalar strap on vertical component of ground reaction force in knee osteoarthritis
Objective: The effects of lateral wedge insoles with and without subtalar strap on vertical component of ground reaction force were compared. Methods: Twenty five patients aged over 40 years with grades I or II of medial compartment knee osteoarthritis based on Kellgrene and Lawrence grading system were participated in this study. They were tested in 3 conditions while walking in a 3-meter walkway: bare foot, lateral wedge insole and lateral wedge insole with subtalar strap. Three successful trials were recorded in each condition. Gait analysis was performed to compare the immediate effect of lateral wedge insole with and without subtalar strap on vertical component of ground reaction force.
Results: There was significant effect of lateral wedge insole with subtalar strap on second peak of vertical ground reaction force related to lateral wedge insole and without insole conditions. But no significant effect of lateral wedge insole with and without subtalar strap was found on first peak of vertical ground reaction force and walking speed.
Conclusion: The results of this study suggest that lateral wedge insole can reduce second peak of vertical ground reaction force. Also it was understood lateral wedge insole with subtalar strap might be more efficacious than lateral wedge insole in mild knee osteoarthritis patients.
The Effect of Eight Weeks of Square Stepping Exercise on the Risk of Falls in Elderly Men
Materials & Methods: In this randomized clinical trial, 30 elderly men aged 60-75 were recruited from senior day care centers in Tehran and randomly assigned to either a square stepping exercise group or a control group. Fall risk was measured using the Biodex Balance System and Fall Risk Test at levels 10 to 12. The exercise group participated in a structured square stepping exercise regimen three times per week, with each session lasting 60 minutes, over an eight-week period. The control group continued their usual daily routines. Fall risk was reassessed after the intervention, and analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) was used to compare pre- and post-intervention results between groups.
Findings: After verifying the ANCOVA assumptions, results indicated a significant group effect in the post-test, with a substantial reduction in fall risk in the exercise group (2.35±1.15) compared to the control group (4.85±1.70; p=0.001) following the eight-week intervention.
Conclusion: Square stepping exercises provide a straightforward, effective, and affordable option for reducing fall risk among elderly individuals, supporting its potential as a practical home-based intervention.
Relation between perceived social support and health promotion behaviors in chemical veterans in Ilam province on 2012-13
Background & Purpose: Chemical attacks in war can make short term and long term personal, family and social damages and limited social relationships of victims as compared to ordinary people. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between social support and health promoting behaviors in chemical veteran in Ilam province 2012-13.
Methods & Materials: This cross-sectional study was performed in the entire moderate and severs chemical veterans, who they were covered by the Department of Veterans and Martyrs of Ilam province. Information was collected by using standard questionnaires for health-promoting behavior and Multidimensional scale of perceived social support (family, friends, and important people). The reliability and validity of these instruments was desirable. Inclusion criteria were percentage of disability with moderate and sever levels and enough physical strength to answer questions, and exclusion criteria were also lack of cooperation and have no permanent residence in Ilam province. After data collection, all data were analyzed by SPSS statistical soft ware and Pearson correlation coefficient and linear regression.
Results: All of 239 veterans indicated that all of them were men with mean and standard deviation age 51.17± 8.87 years and there is a significant relation between all subscales of social support and health-promotion behavior subscales (p<0.05). Among the subscales of social support, friend support had the highest correlation with health-promoting behaviors (r= 0.391), and support from important people showed the lowest correlation (r= 0.367). The all regression models of health promotion behavior and its subscales were significant.
Conclusion: There is a relation between perceived social support especially friend support and health-promotion behaviors, therefore suggest that the friend as a resource support was used in design of educational programs.
The Comparison of the quality of life of the war veterans families with/without Post traumatic Stress Disorder
Introduction: The aim of current study was comparison of the quality of life of the war veteran’s families with/without PTSD.
Method: In this purpose 300 war veterans' families were selected by clustering random sampling in Hamedan province. The measures of this research were quality of life questionnaire 28 items and demographic inventory.
Results: The results of independent samples t-test have shown the war veterans with PTSD reported lower scores on Physical Function, Bodily Pain, General Health, Vitality, Social Functioning, and mental health in comparison of the war veterans without PTSD. The spouses of the war veterans with PTSD also have reported lower quality of life in all subscales in comparison of the spouses of war veterans without PTSD. The children of the war veterans with PTSD have reported lower scores only on general health in comparison of the children of the war veterans without PTSD.
Conclusion: In respect to results, it appears that consideration of family's health in war veterans' families is necessary with special attention to war veterans with PTSD. However, planning, and instructional, therapeutic policies can be useful
Validation of a Device for Registering Orthotic Wearing Time during the Laboratory Climate Tests on Normal Volunteers
Laboratory instrumentation of orthoses and prostheses can be used to objectively gain accurate information. In this study the measurement of orthosis wearing time during laboratory climate tests with normal volunteers were accomplished to determine the validity and reliability of the device for registering orthotic wearing time that was designed and fabricated in
Correlation between mindfulness and executive functions in blinds veterans
Background and Aim : Mindfulness is ability of self regulating attention and direct it for task. The purpose of present study is evaluation of correlation between mindfulness and executive function in blind veterans.
Materials & Methods : we evaluate 93 blind veterans with Dys executive function and mindfulness questionnaire. Pearson Correlation Test was used to evaluation.
Results : findings show significant correlation between mindfulness and executive function specially inhibition and memory (P<0.01) and arousal (P<0.01) subscale. No correlation found in intentionality and hyperactivity subscale (P>0.05).
Conclusion : Cause of correlation between mindfulness and inhibition, arousal and memory is common structural and functional overlap. Mindfulness can be used as a proper predictor of this subscale of executive functions.
Psychological- social consequences chemical bombardment of the Sardasht victims (a qualitative study)
Purpose: Aim of the present research is study of psychic and social consequences of chemical bombarding on the victims of Sardasht City by qualitative method.
Material & Method: 15 men and 15 women of Sardasht City victims were selected as available sampling and they were interviewed in semi-structured manner. Method of qualitative research is interpretive. Results of the interviews were divided into several categories.
Results: Results show that psychic and social consequences of chemical bombarding on the victims include complaints such as social complaints, psychic complaints, exhaustion problems, economical complaints, characteristic complaints, anger, no safety sensation, emotional interdependent, decrease of social interaction exist in victims.
Conclusion: Results of the research demonstrate social and psychological problems have higher role in psychic- social consequences of chemical bombarding in ratio with other psychic- social consequences. Finally, we involved in limitations and providing several recommendations
