Ebnesina
Year:2024 | Volume:26 | Issue:1|Papers Count:10

2Background and aims: Understanding the attitudes of military personnel towards suicide is crucial for evaluating suicide prevention programs, clinical practices, and policies within the military community. This study aimed to assess the psychometric properties of the Military Suicide Attitudes Questionnaire (MSAQ) among conscripts in the Islamic Republic of Iran Army Ground Forces. Methods: In 2020, a descriptive-correlational study was conducted with a sample of 420 conscripts selected through cluster sampling. Data were collected using a demographic information form, the MSAQ, Suicide Stigma Scale (SOSS), and Beck Scale for Suicidal Ideation (BSSI). Face validity was determined qualitatively, internal consistency was assessed using Cronbach's alpha, and convergent, divergent, and retest validity were evaluated using Pearson correlation coefficient. Exploratory factor analysis was employed to identify the MSAQ's factor structure. Results: Analysis revealed that the MSAQ showed convergent validity with the SOSS and divergent validity with the BSSI. The questionnaire demonstrated appropriate internal consistency, test-retest reliability, concurrent validity, and cut-off point. Conclusion: The findings suggest that the MSAQ is a valid and reliable tool for assessing suicidal ideation among conscripts in Iran.

2Background and aims: Hospital medical staff are highly susceptible to the SARS-CoV-2 virus, leading to a heightened risk of developing psychological disorders. The primary objective of this study was to explore the impact of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) on the self-efficacy, resilience, mental health, and sleep disorders of medical professionals working in COVID-19 wards. Methods: The research employed a quasi-experimental design with a pre- post-test structure and a control group. The sample comprised 30 medical staff from Shahid Modares Hospital in Tehran, caring for COVID-19 patients, selected through purposeful and accessible sampling. They were randomly assigned to experimental and control groups. CBT sessions were conducted individually over eight sessions lasting 120 minutes each, held weekly. Data were collected using General Self-Efficacy Questionnaire (GSE-10), Resilience Scale, General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-28), and Insomnia Severity Index (ISI). Data analysis was performed using covariance analysis. Results: The results indicated that CBT had a significant positive effect on self-efficacy, resilience, and mental health, while it had a significant negative effect on sleep disorders (p<0.001).  Conclusion: Overall, the findings suggest that CBT can be an effective intervention for addressing psychological issues among medical staff in corona wards. Implementing this therapy could be beneficial in managing the mental well-being of healthcare workers in such high-stress environments.

2Background and aims: Sports activity is an important and protective factor after cardiovascular diseases. The aim of this study was to investigate the response of acute incremental aerobic activity along with electrical stimulation on some markers of angiogenesis in Isoproterenol (ISO) induced rats. Methods: This controlled experimental study involved 50 male rats (eight weeks old, weighing 210±15g) subjected to infarction with ISO (150mg/kg), subsequently divided randomly into 5 groups of 10: healthy, infarcted, engaged in sports activity, exposed to electrical stimulation, and engaged in aerobic activity combined with electrical stimulation. The intervention groups underwent activity (at a speed of 10 to 18m/min for 50 minutes) and electrical stimulation (at an intensity of 0.5mA for 20 minutes) in a single session. Venous blood samples were collected and analyzed using the ELISA method, with statistical analysis performed using the ANOVA test at a significance level of p<0.05. Results: Inducing rats with ISO resulted in a significant elevation in serum levels of VEGF and TSP1 in all groups (p=0.0001 for both). The ANOVA test revealed that a single session of sports activity led to a non-significant increase in VEGF levels and a non-significant decrease in TSP1 levels in infarcted rats in all groups compared to the infarcted group. Conclusion: Incremental aerobic activity and electrical stimulation demonstrated positive effects on angiogenesis processes. However, due to the lack of statistical significance, further studies are warranted to explore the enhancement and proliferation of new capillary vessels in infarcted samples.

2Background and aims: The aging process leads to changes in motor performance, including decreased balance and weakened muscular strength, increasing the risk of falls. This study aimed to investigate the immediate impact of proprioceptive exercises on balance, proprioception, and muscle strength in elderly individuals and adults. Methods: In a semi-experimental, 20 adults and 20 elderly individuals (with average ages of 27.20 and 65.73 years) were randomly selected. Balance was assessed using the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test, while proprioception was measured with a digital camera and AutoCAD software. Isometric muscle strength of the quadriceps and hamstring muscles was evaluated with a hand-held dynamometer. Assessments were conducted before, immediately after, and one hour post exercises. Data analysis was performed using a mixed model for repeated measures design. Results: Significant improvements were showed in proprioception, with both adult and elderly groups experiencing enhancements of 32.21% and 30.54%, respectively (p<0.05). The TUG test revealed a significant difference between the two groups, with the adults and elderly showing improvements of 7.77% and 2.02%, respectively, compared to their pre-exercise performance (p<0.05). Additionally, there was a significant variation in isometric strength of the hamstring and quadriceps muscles between the groups (p<0.05). Following the exercises, quadriceps muscle strength improved by 9.88% and 4.30% in the adults and elderly groups, respectively (p<0.05). Conclusion: The immediate benefits of proprioceptive exercises can be harnessed by healthcare professionals and community members to enhance the motor functions of both elderly individuals and adults.

2Background and aims: Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is the most common neurodegenerative disorder in young adults, and there is fear and concern about exercise among MS patients. The present study was designed to explain the barriers and strategies for performing exercise from the perspective of patients with MS. Methods: Methods: This study was conducted using the content analysis research method. Fourteen patients with MS referred to the Arak MS Society were interviewed by three nurses and one physician. A total of 18 in-depth individual interviews were conducted in this study. The method of data collection was semi-structured interviews. Purposeful sampling was performed, and data saturation was achieved. All interviews were analyzed using a qualitative method. Results: In this study, 77.78% of the participants were women, and 61.11% were married. The mean age was 34.52±5.6 years. The duration of the disease varied from 2 to 10 years. The findings of this study can be categorized into two general themes: barriers to exercise (including individual, environmental, and socio-cultural factors) and strategies for institutionalizing exercise for these patients. Conclusion: The findings of this study can assist authorities in identifying the specific issues faced by patients with MS and their barriers to exercise.

2Background and aims: The treatment and care of burn patients in hospitals is known to be complex, specialized, time-consuming, and costly. Therefore, it is crucial to conduct an economic evaluation and resource analysis of burn services in hospitals, particularly within the armed forces. This study aimed to assess the cost-benefit feasibility of establishing burn services at Be'sat Hospital in Tehran, which is affiliated with the armed forces. Methods: This analytical-applied study utilized common cost-benefit analysis techniques. The research population consisted of burn hospitals within the armed forces in Tehran, with Chamran Hospital and Be'sat Hospital being included. Be'sat Hospital in Tehran was selected as the research sample. Results: The findings revealed that over 93% of the benefits and 80% of the costs associated with establishing burn services at the hospital are direct. The cost-benefit analysis over a 5-year period showed varying profitability timelines based on bed occupancy rates. With a 70% occupancy rate, the capital return period is in the fourth year. Higher occupancy rates result in quicker profitability, while lower rates extend the time frame. Conclusion: The economic justification indicators suggest that due to significant initial investments and delayed economic returns, establishing a burn sector may not be financially viable.

2Background and aims: Many clients referred to accommodation centers and camps are already undergoing antiretroviral treatment after being diagnosed with HIV. Discontinuation or irregular use of medication can lead to treatment failure and drug resistance. This study aimed to investigate the perspectives of experts, key stakeholders, and patients on all aspects of HIV diagnosis, care, and treatment, both within and outside residential facilities. Methods: A focus group discussion lasting an average of 75 minutes was held with 12 experts, and three patients were interviewed individually. This research took place at the Iranian Research Center for HIV/AIDS affiliated with Tehran University of Medical Sciences in September 2021. The analysis was conducted using content analysis, which involved categorizing data into main categories, sub-categories, and codes. Open code software was utilized for this purpose. Results: The study uncovered challenges faced by individuals before and after discharge from these facilities (important categories and sub-categories), including financial concerns, a shortage of specialized and knowledgeable staff, lack of understanding among clients regarding medication adherence and treatment benefits, inadequate attention given to clients, absence of follow-up contact information, substance abuse issues, and insufficient prioritization of HIV patients in these settings. Conclusion: The findings highlight the necessity for new strategies in post-discharge follow-up, as well as the provision of medical, supportive, and educational services. Potential solutions may include providing housing for homeless patients, assisting patients in accessing mental health counseling centers, optimizing existing resources, and fostering a community environment that actively fights against stigma and discrimination.

2Background and aims: Psychological empowerment is a crucial factor in driving performance improvement within the healthcare and treatment system. As an organizational strategy, it plays a vital role in enabling employees to take on more responsibilities in decision-making processes and enhances their engagement in controlling organizational procedures. Organizational citizenship behavior (OCB) is a key variable influenced by psychological empowerment (PE), leading to the development of employee performance and organizational productivity. This research aimed to investigate the relationship between PE and OCB within the healthcare and treatment sector. Methods: This applied study is a descriptive-survey. The research sample consists of 165 employees from the Babolsar Healthcare and Treatment Network, selected through simple random sampling. Data was gathered using standard scales for demographic information, PE, and OCB. Results: The findings indicate a positive and significant correlation between PE and employees' OCB (p<0.001). The structural equation model demonstrates that PE can predict OCB and its dimensions effectively. The model fit indices suggest a good fit (χ2/df=2.14, GFI=0.91, NFI=0.93, and RMSEA=0.084). Conclusion: Conclusion: The PE and its components contribute to the enhancement of OCB among employees. Managers are recommended to focus on fostering employees' OCB development and improving performance levels through training, education, and the promotion of psychological empowerment skills.

2Background and aims: Serving in the military environment can lead to profound psychological and social implications. This study aimed to explore the risk and protective factors influencing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in military veterans and soldiers. Methods: This research involved a systematic search across international and national databases, as well as the Iranian Medical Science Articles Database, using keywords such as post-traumatic stress disorder, soldier, veteran, prevalence, mental health, depression, anxiety, stress, psychological distress, trauma, military, and war. Results: The studies review revealed a PTSD prevalence ranging from 2% to 57% among soldiers and veterans. Common issues among those affected included depression, anxiety, trauma, coping mechanisms, personality traits, stress, cognitive challenges, sexual dysfunction, emotional conflicts, substance abuse, and marital difficulties. Optimism, self-esteem, quality of life, resilience, social support, spirituality, and mental well-being were identified as factors significantly mitigating PTSD symptoms in soldiers and veterans. Conclusion: The research findings underscore the critical role of psychological, behavioral, social, and emotional factors in the development and exacerbation of PTSD in military personnel. Given the occupational context of soldiers and military personnel, proactive measures are essential to identify high-risk groups and prevent widespread psychological disorders.

2Background and aims: Typically, Iranian physicians prescribe medications for patients with non-communicable chronic illnesses. The aim of this review was to explore research on the global program “Exercise is Medicine”, with the goal of introducing this program to Iranian physicians and encouraging them to prescribe exercise to their patients. Methods: A comprehensive electronic search was conducted in both international and national databases in English and Persian from November 2007 to December 2022. Out of 203 studies reviewed, 18 were chosen for analysis. Results: The benefits of exercise and regular physical activity in preventing chronic diseases and decreasing mortality rates have been well-documented. Individuals leading active lifestyles tend to live longer, healthier, and more fulfilling lives. Scientific evidence unequivocally supports the notion that exercise is indeed a form of medicine. Consequently, it is imperative for physicians to evaluate their patients' physical activity levels and exercise routines during each visit, cautioning them against the perils of a sedentary lifestyle. When deemed necessary, physicians should prescribe a weekly exercise regimen of 150 minutes or more to encourage patients to partake in moderate to vigorous physical activities. Conclusion: “Exercise is Medicine” has evolved into a global initiative with over 40 participating countries. Therefore, Iranian physicians are encouraged to embrace the “Exercise is Medicine” program, assessing their patients' physical activity levels and incorporating exercise prescriptions as a standard component of preventive, therapeutic, and rehabilitative care models.