Farnaz Seifi, Mojdeh Khajehlandi,
Volume 11, Issue 4 (12-2023)
Abstract
Background: The use of complementary medicine in healthcare is increasing rapidly. Therefore, the aim of the current study was to investigate the effect of eight weeks of high-intensity interval training and moderate-intensity continuous training with quercetin supplementation on the gene expression of FOXO1 and ATG5 in the liver of diabetic obese rats.
Methods: In this experimental study, 42 male Wistar rats were considered research samples at eight weeks. Rats were induced with diabetes after eight weeks of a high-fat diet and familiarization with a laboratory environment and treadmill. Rats were divided into seven groups, and six rats were placed in each group (n=6): healthy control group, diabetes control group, diabetic quercetin group, high-intensity interval training with diabetes group, moderate-intensity continuous training with diabetes group, diabetic high-intensity interval training with quercetin group, and diabetic moderate-intensity continuous training with quercetin group. For one training group, eight weeks of high-intensity interval training, and for the other group, eight weeks of moderate-intensity continuous training on the treadmill were performed. Seventy-two hours after the last training session, liver tissues were isolated to check the gene expression of FOXO1 and ATG5. One-way analysis of variance test was used to check the difference between groups by SPSS version 26 software.
Results: Findings showed that by inducing type 2 diabetes, gene expression of FOXO1 increased (3.14 unit) (P<0.001) and ATG5 gene expression decreased (0.71 unit) (P<0.001). After eight weeks of training investigation, gene expression of FOXO1 and ATG5 decreased (P<0.001) and increased (P<0.001), respectively, in all training groups compared to the diabetic control group. There was no significant difference between the four training groups (P>0/05).
Conclusion: Both exercises with and without quercetin had a modulating effect on the gene expression of indicators related to the process of autophagy and blood glucose levels in the liver of diabetic obese rats.
Hossein Eidizadeh, Seyed Mohsen Avandi, Abdosalleh Zar, Hamid Reza Sadeghipour,
Volume 12, Issue 1 (4-2024)
Abstract
Background: Resistance training and protein supplementation are known to increase protein synthesis and hypertrophy, primarily through the activation of the mTORC1 signaling pathway. However, mTORC1 activation in the kidneys can potentially lead to kidney disease. This study investigates the effects of eight weeks of resistance training combined with Spirulina platensis supplementation on the RAGs/Rheb/mTOR/S6K pathway in male rat kidneys.
Methods: In this study, 32 male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into four groups: control (Co; n = 8), Spirulina platensis (SP; n = 8), resistance training (RE; n = 8), and Spirulina platensis + resistance training (SP+RE; n = 8). The resistance training group engaged in five sessions per week over eight weeks. Spirulina was administered at a dosage of 200 mg/kg/day to the supplement and SP+RE groups. Gene expression was analyzed using real-time PCR following the last training session.
Results: The mTOR gene expression significantly increased in the SP group (p = 0.01), while no significant changes were observed in the RE and SP+RE groups. Rheb gene expression did not show significant changes across any groups. Significant changes were noted in the RAGs gene in the SP group (p = 0.001), RE group (p = 0.047), and SP+RE group (p = 0.025). The S6K gene showed significant changes in the SP group (p = 0.01) but not in the other groups.
Conclusion: Spirulina supplementation may activate the mTORC1 signaling pathway in the kidneys, potentially contributing to kidney disease progression. However, combined resistance training and Spirulina supplementation did not show changes in mTORC1 expression, suggesting that this combination might prevent further kidney tissue damage in athletes.
Sajjad Pourbagher, Abdolreza Bay, Alireza Heydari,
Volume 12, Issue 1 (4-2024)
Abstract
Background: The Ministry of Health has prioritized social health interventions to enhance the social capital within health systems. This study analyzes the implementation of Iran's Ministry of Health's social health policies based on Kingdon's model.
Methods: This qualitative study, conducted in 2022, utilized Kingdon's (2003) model as the research framework. Data were collected through in-depth personal interviews with 15 managers and scientific and executive experts from the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Interior, the governorate, universities of medical sciences, and non-governmental organizations. Sampling was purposive, and interviews were analyzed using the frame analysis method.
Results: The findings were categorized into three main themes and ten sub-themes which include the problem, policy, and the political stream. The problem stream, focus on definition of social health among stakeholders, addressing the nature of social health, exploring the impacts of social health on society members' roles, duties, and social activities, and clarifying communication regarding the concepts of social health for ministry managers and employees. The policy stream, emphasized on people's participation is a primary health care (PHC) principle, Laws highlighting the social dimension of health, and the potential utilization of NGO capacities within the country. The political stream highlighted the Social Vice-Chancellorship in the Ministry of Health with the onset of the 11th government, and the formation of the General Directorate of Non-governmental Organizations within the Social Vice-Chancellorship.
Conclusion: Despite the critical need for social health policies and the requirements set by upstream laws, the complexity and multi-dimensionality of social health have hindered successful policy implementation. To attract interdisciplinary leadership and cross-sectoral support, it is recommended that a dedicated trustee within the Ministry of Health be appointed and practical measures for promoting healthy social behaviors be implemented by identifying and monitoring social health indicators be implemented.
Mojdeh Khajehlandi, Ali Eyvazi Nasirlu , Hamed Kheirollahi Meidani, Farnaz Seifi-Skishahr , Roghayyeh Fekri, Rasoul Ershadifard,
Volume 12, Issue 1 (4-2024)
Abstract
Background: Insufficiency of omentin-1 and 25-hydroxyvitamin D serum levels is associated with obesity, which is known as a threat to health. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to examine the effect of eight weeks of Pilates exercise on the serum levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D, omentin-1, and lipid profile in overweight women.
Methods: In the present clinical study, 26 young overweight women were divided (block randomization method) into the Pilates exercise (PT, n= 13) and control group (CG, n= 13). The PT group performed Pilates exercises for eight weeks (three 60-min sessions per week). The movements started from simple and then increased in intensity and complexity based on the Borg index. The CG group had no training session for eight weeks. Blood samples were taken before the first training session and 48 hours after the last training session. Analysis of covariance was used for between-group comparisons.
Results: Findings showed a significant increase in the serum levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (p=0.008, SD= 4.78±0.12 ng/ml, effect size= 0.243) and HDL-C (p=0.04, SD= 6.44±1.05 mg/dl, effect size= 0.168), but a significant decrease in HOMA-IR (p=0.001, SD= 1.54±0.09, effect size=0.199), cholesterol (p=0.001, SD= 16.72±3.24 mg/dl, effect size= 0.326), and triglyceride (p=0.001, SD= 2.46±0.07 mg/dl, effect size= 0.209), and no significant change in omentin-1 (p=0.65, SD= 3.01±0.08 ng/ml) and LDL-C (p=0.58, SD= 2.46±0.07 mg/dl) serum levels in the PT group compared to the CG group.
Conclusion: It seems that this type of exercise training may play a critical role in controlling the health parameters and physiological status of the overweight women by having positive effects on serum levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D and lipid profile, which are affected by body composition, weight, and fat.
Mojdeh Khajehlandi, Lotfali Bolboli,
Volume 12, Issue 2 (7-2024)
Abstract
Background: Mitochondrial function is an integral part of glucose-stimulated insulin secretion in pancreatic β-cells and is a hallmark feature of cardiovascular disease. It may contribute to the pathophysiology of diabetic cardiomyopathy and atherosclerosis. This study aimed to investigate the effect of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT), combined with quercetin supplementation (eight weeks), on mitochondrial gene expression in the diabetic heart.
Methods: In this study, 35 adult male rats were equally divided into seven groups (n=5): healthy sedentary, diabetic sedentary, diabetic quercetin sedentary, diabetic HIIT (DHIIT), diabetic MICT (DMICT), DHIIT with quercetin, and DMICT with quercetin. The rats were fed a high-fat diet for eight weeks and subsequently treated with a single low dose of streptozotocin to create a model of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Eight weeks (five times a week) of HIIT and MICT, with and without quercetin, were conducted for the training groups, and quercetin was injected over eight weeks at a dose of 15 mg/kg.
Results: Eight weeks of quercetin supplementation, HIIT, and MICT, with and without quercetin, significantly decreased blood glucose levels (P=0.001). Eight weeks of HIIT and MICT training increased nuclear respiratory factor-2 (NRF2) (P=0.001) and adipose triglyceride lipase (ATGL) (P=0.001) expression and decreased perilipin 2 (PLIN2) gene expression (P=0.001).
Conclusion: The training groups alone improved the gene expression of NRF2, ATGL, and PLIN2. Both training protocols, combined with quercetin, controlled blood glucose levels and improved antioxidant capacity. Thus, the reduction in blood glucose through quercetin supplementation appears to be a promising approach for managing T2DM.
Fatemeh Omidi , Leila Fozouni , Arash Nikyar , Mehr Ali Mahmood Janlou,
Volume 12, Issue 2 (7-2024)
Abstract
Background: Cefiderocol is a siderophore cephalosporin with unique cell-penetrating abilities against multidrug-resistant (MDR) Gram-negative bacteria, especially carbapenem-resistant strains. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence and susceptibility profiles of Cefiderocol on carbapenem-resistant uropathogenic Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae isolates among hospitalized patients.
Methods: One hundred twenty-nine patients more than 72 h admitted to hospitals participated from Feb. 2021 to Dec. 2022. Urine samples were examined to identify uropathogenic K. pneumoniae and E. coli isolates based on microscopic morphology, cultural and biochemical methods. The carbapenemase production in the isolates was evaluated using modified Hodge tests and PCR. The MIC of Cefiderocol against carbapenemase-producing isolates was evaluated according to CLSI-2021 guidelines.
Results: According to phenotypic and genotypic tests, among forty-two E. coli isolates (71.19%) were carbapenemase positive, 38 isolates had the blaOXA gene (90.47%), and among twenty-four K. pneumoniae isolates 96% contained the blaKPC gene. In MIC determination 55.24% of carbapenem-resistant E. coli isolates were inhibited with ≤0.5 μg/ml of Cefiderocol, while only two strains (8.33%) of K. pneumoniae isolates showed resistance to the Cefiderocol (MIC90=2 μg/ml).
Conclusion: The present results demonstrate that the emergence of carbapenem-resistant uropathogenic bacteria poses a critical health threat to society. Based on the results, Cefiderocol demonstrated efficacy against carbapenem-resistant clinical isolates at low concentrations.
Ahmed Abdulelah Abbas Al-Hadeethi , Farzaneh Taghian, Zaydoon Jawad Mohammed Al-Jawad, Khosro Jalali Dehkordi,
Volume 12, Issue 2 (7-2024)
Abstract
Background: Goalball is a distinctive athletic activity tailored for individuals who are blind or partially sighted. It is aimed at promoting physical activity and preventing sedentary behavior. This study explores the impact of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and moderate-intensity interval training (MIIT) on muscle damage and inflammation markers in goalball players over eight weeks.
Methods: In this semi-experimental study, 24 male goalball players were randomly assigned to one of three groups: a control group, a HIIT group, and a moderate-intensity interval training (MIIT) group. The HIIT regimen involved intermittent running for 30 seconds at 100-200% of HRR, followed by 30 seconds of active recovery at 50% HRR. The MIIT protocol consisted of 25 minutes of training at 40-50% HRR, progressing to 30-35 minutes at 60-65% HRR over the last four weeks. Data were analyzed using repeated measures ANOVA, with a significance threshold set at P-Value <0.05.
Results: The results displayed that HIIT and MIIT had a significant effect on the concentration of CK (P-Value < 0.001), LDH (P-Value < 0.001), and IL-6 (P-Value < 0.001). Also, compared to MIIT, HIIT caused a significant decrease in the concentration of CK (P-Value < 0.001), LDH (P-Value < 0.001), and IL-6 (P-Value < 0.001).
Conclusion: HIIT exerts a more pronounced effect on CK, LDH, and IL-6 concentrations than MIIT. These findings suggest that HIIT may be more effective in enhancing physiological markers in individuals with disabilities, promoting better health outcomes.
Kazem Alizadeh Barzian, Negar Noorbakhsh, Mehdi Jamshidi, Mohamad Sabaghan, Nima Daneshi, Zainab Shajirat, Abolhasan Difrakhsh, Afsaneh Waysi, Hamid Behrouj, Zahra Nikkhoy, Ali Jamshidi,
Volume 12, Issue 3 (10-2024)
Abstract
Background: The Coronaviridae family is responsible for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), which has become a global health threat. In Iran, the first confirmed case of COVID-19 was reported in Qom on February 19, 2020. The rapid spread of the virus led to a significant number of fatalities, highlighting the need for a detailed analysis of demographic, epidemiological, and clinical factors to enhance public health measures. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the epidemiological, clinical, and demographic features of COVID-19 deaths in Behbahan County, southwestern Iran, in 2020-2022.
Methods: In the present cross-sectional study, patients diagnosed with COVID-19 who died from the infection in all hospitals of Behbahan were analyzed. We used a questionnaire including data about the demographic, epidemiologic, and clinical of each patient. Finally, all the results were analyzed by SPSS v. 21.
Results: We enrolled 437 polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-confirmed COVID-19 cases from this period, of whom 61% were men. The highest mortality rate was among those aged 61 to 70 years (27%), and the lowest number was among children and adolescents below 20 years old. The results of the survey also showed that there were 3 main risk factors: diabetes (28%), cardiovascular diseases (25%), and high blood pressure (17%), which contributed to death in these groups. The highest mortality rate occurred in July 2021, followed by June 2020.
Conclusion: There was a significant correlation between the age of the patients, the history of at least 1 chronic disease, and the mortality rate in infected patients. For this reason, it is crucial to implement precautionary procedures to reduce the number of deaths among infected people. Thus, the results of the present study can depict a better picture of the patients' condition in Behbahan and provide insight into future approaches.
Farah Nameni , Maryam Motevasseli ,
Volume 12, Issue 3 (10-2024)
Abstract
Background: Regular physical activity helps maintain health and improves the performance of various body systems. It is also recommended for managing many diseases and disorders, even after surgery. In this regard, the use of supplements may effectively synergize these benefits and promote faster recovery and cell repair. This study investigated the response of liver enzymes and serum indices to whey protein and jogging after bariatric surgery in women.
Methods: The statistical population included all women aged 30 to 45 who underwent bariatric surgery. From this population, 30 individuals were selected as a statistical sample based on entry and exit criteria, using a simple random method without replacement. After providing necessary explanations, written consent was obtained from all participants. Before surgery, body composition assessment, fibroscan, and blood liver enzyme tests were performed. Following the surgery, the research sample participated in an 8-week jogging program and consumed Iso whey supplement. The training protocol was incremental, and the participants consumed 20 grams of Iso whey supplement twice daily, as a suspended solution in water, 30 minutes before and immediately after training. At the end of the research protocol, re-evaluations of body composition, fibroscan, and blood liver enzyme tests were conducted. To compare data, the mean, standard deviation, and Levine's test were used. Shapiro-Wilk test, dependent t-test, and analysis of variance with repeated measurements were employed to assess differences.
Results: The research showed that alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase enzyme levels decreased significantly. In addition, bone density, calcium levels, and muscle mass increased, while fat percentage and liver fibrosis decreased (P<0.05).
Conclusion: Iso whey protein and jogging appear to have synergistic effects in stimulating growth, increasing muscle size and strength, and improving performance through protein building blocks and amino acids. These factors may also enhance the release of anabolic hormones. The decrease in liver enzymes was likely due to improved fat metabolism, increased energy and oxygen consumption, and enhanced cardiovascular activity.
Masoumeh Helalian , Asieh Sadat Baniaghil , Zahra Valinezhad , Nasser Behnampour,
Volume 12, Issue 4 (12-2024)
Abstract
Background: The first 6 to 8 months of a human baby's life are among the most crucial periods of development. Mothers can enhance an infant's development by offering environments rich in appropriate stimuli. The study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of motor developmental stimulatory training on mothers' motor development (fine and gross) in healthy, full-term, 6-month-old infants.
Methods: This experimental study was conducted 2016 on 72 mothers and their healthy six-month-old infants in Gorgan (Iran). The block randomization method assigned participants to the intervention (n=36) and control (n=36) groups. The motor developmental stimulatory training program was performed for five 90-minute weekly sessions by a midwifery consultant for children's mothers. The fine and gross motor development of infants in both groups was evaluated before the intervention, in the end, and two weeks after the intervention by a research assistant using the Denver-II tool. The data were analyzed using the Friedman and the Mann- Whitney U Tests using SPSS software version 26.
Results: At the beginning of the study, infants’ mean fine motor skills scores were 6.22±0.47 in the intervention group and 6.05±0.43 in the control group, showing no significant difference. Likewise, the mean gross motor skills scores were 6.65±0.52 for the intervention group and 5.7±0.42 for the control group, which was also insignificant (< 0.0116). However, by the end of the training, the mean ages for fine motor skills in the intervention group rose to 9.41±0.75 compared to 7.51±0.42 in the control group, and two weeks later, they were 11.43±0.49 in the intervention group against 8.64±0.54 in the control group, with these differences being significant (P-value < 0.0001). The mean ages for gross motor skills at the end of the training were 7.94±0.61 in the intervention group and 6.7±0.34 in the control group, and two weeks later, 9.3±0.47 in the intervention group compared to 7.46±0.55 in the control group, which was also significant (P-value < 0.0001).
Conclusion: Developmental stimulatory training significantly improves 6-mount infants' gross and fine motor skills. Midwifery consultants can educate mothers about the motor development stimulation package so that they can use it to enhance the fine and gross motor skills of their healthy infant.
Sara Valikhani, Seyed Mohsen Avandi, Mehdi Hedayati ,
Volume 12, Issue 4 (12-2024)
Abstract
Background: Circuit resistance training, beneficial to overweight individuals, combines aerobic and resistance exercises. This study aimed to investigate the effect of multi-joint circuit resistance training on serum adiponectin levels and lipid profiles in overweight women.
Methods: Thirty sedentary overweight women (mean age of 34.48±4.304 years, mean weight of 81.17±9.137 kg, and mean BMI of 30.17±2.13 kg/m2) were randomly divided into two groups: circuit resistance training (n=15) and a control group (n=15). The experimental group trained at 65–85% of maximum heart rate for eight weeks, with three sessions per week (24 sessions total). The control group did not engage in regular exercise. Serum adiponectin levels and lipid profiles were assessed before and after the intervention. Data were analyzed using paired sample t-tests and dependent t-tests at a significance level of P-value≤0.05.
Results: The results showed that adiponectin levels (P-value=0.001) and cholesterol levels (P-value=0.015) increased in the circuit training group, while LDL levels decreased (P-value=0.031). HDL levels increased but were not statistically significant (P-value=0.100). These variables did not change in the control group.
Conclusion: Finding ways to improve the state of adipokines is of vital importance for these patients. According to the results, circuit resistance training may be an effective method for addressing dyslipidemia and increasing adiponectin levels in overweight women.
Kamal Mirkarimi , Najmeh Shahini , Abdolhalim Rajabi , Amir Hosein Izadyar ,
Volume 12, Issue 4 (12-2024)
Abstract
Background: Self-care is defined as a strategy to adapt the events and stresses of life, which improves health and includes special activities that alleviate the symptoms of the disease. This study aimed to investigate the impact of a self-care program on the self-esteem of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) attending rural health centers in Gorgan City in 2023.
Methods: A quasi-experimental, pre-and post-test intervention study was conducted using a multistage sampling technique in patients with T2DM and prediabetes attending health centers in rural health centers of Gorgan City. An educational program was conducted on 68 patients divided into two groups of diabetes and pre-diabetes (34 patients in each group). Data were collected using a personal information checklist, standard self-care questionnaires, and the Coopersmith Self-Esteem Inventory. Follow-up was conducted two months after the intervention. The data were described using mean and standard deviation, and analyzed by Kolmogorov-Smirnov, Chi-square, Independent T-test, and Paired T-test.
Results: The mean age in the T2DM group was 58 ±7.26, and 60.29 ± 9.47 years in the pre-diabetes group. The mean fasting blood sugar levels in the T2DM and pre-diabetes groups after the intervention were 131.24 and 100.94, respectively, which showed a significant statistical difference (P-Value=0.02). The mean self-esteem scores in the T2DM and pre-diabetes groups after the intervention also showed a significant statistical difference (P-Value =0.006).
Conclusion: In the current study, the present intervention led to the improvement of self-esteem and self-care scores in people with T2DM and pre-diabetes.
Zahra Minaei , Farah Nameni ,
Volume 13, Issue 1 (3-2025)
Abstract
Background: This study aimed to investigate the modulating effects of two interventions, glycyrrhizin and swimming exercise, on the expression of CXCR4 and CXCL12 genes in the blood and heart tissue of diabetic rat models.
Methods: A total of 55 male Wistar rats were purchased, of which 44 were subcutaneously injected with streptozotocin between the ears. Four days post-injection, blood glucose levels were assessed. Rats exhibiting levels above 250 mg/dL were classified as diabetic and subsequently randomized into four groups of 11 animals each (diabetic control, diabetic + glycyrrhizin, diabetic + swimming training, and diabetic + swimming training + glycyrrhizin). The healthy control group consisted of 11 rats. Two groups of diabetic rats were treated with glycyrrhizin. The core experimental protocol involved swimming training, which was implemented in two of the experimental groups. Glycyrrhizin was dissolved in 0.9% saline with sterile distilled water and administered by gavage at a dose of 120 mg/kg on average, transferred to the stomach of the animals every night. The main experimental protocol consisted of eight weeks of swimming training, which was performed in two experimental groups. The swimming training time started from 25 minutes with 7 liters of water in the adaptation period and increased to 60 minutes of activity in 17 liters of water in the eighth week. After eight weeks, the rats were anesthetized with ketamine and xylazine before blood collection, and then blood samples were taken from their hearts. Data analysis was performed using two-way analysis of variance and Tukey's test.
Results: A marked reduction in the expression levels of CXCR4 and CXCL12 was observed in the groups subjected to exercise and glycyrrhizin supplementation, indicating the potential of these interventions in modulating inflammatory signaling pathways (p<0.05). The greatest reduction in CXCR4 (49.77%) and CXCL12 (68.19%) was observed in the combined exercise + glycyrrhizin group, indicating a stronger effect of the combined therapy than the single treatments.
Conclusion: Swimming training combined with glycyrrhizin supplementation significantly downregulated the expression of CXCR4 and CXCL12 genes and demonstrated potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, contributing effectively to the modulation and prevention of diabetes.
Sara Ghasdi , Mohammad Rami , Abdolhamid Habibi ,
Volume 13, Issue 1 (3-2025)
Abstract
Background: Research has shown that high-intensity interval training (HIIT) is a convenient and time-efficient approach that promotes oxidative capacity. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the effect of HIIT on the gene expression of some inflammatory and anti-inflammatory markers of hippocampal tissue in aged male Wistar rats.
Methods: In this experimental study, 21 male Wistar rats were divided into three equal groups: 1- control (C), 2- elderly control (EC), and 3- elderly training (ET). After two weeks of adaptation to the laboratory environment, six weeks of HIIT were performed for the training group. Forty-eight hours after the last training session, hippocampal tissue was isolated to examine the mean levels of interleukin-10 (IL-10), IL-6, and IL-1β gene expression. One-way analysis of variance and Tukey's post-hoc test with a significance level of 0.05 were used to analyze the data.
Results: There was a significant increase in the expression of IL-6 and IL-1β, while a significant decrease in IL-10 expression (p=0.001) in the C group compared to the EC. After six weeks of HIIT, expression of IL-6 (p=0.001) and IL-1β (p=0.001) significantly decreased, whereas IL-10 expression significantly increased (p=0.001) in the ET group compared to the EC group.
Conclusion: It seems that HIIT activity has beneficial effects on preventing the process of neural degeneration. Moreover, it is promising as a non-pharmacological strategy for controlling complications resulting from the aging process due to its anti-inflammatory properties.
Fatemeh Akbari , Mehrzad Moghadasi, Omid Reza Salehi ,
Volume 13, Issue 1 (3-2025)
Abstract
Background: Alzheimer’s disease (AD) disrupts hippocampal oxidant-antioxidant balance. Although endurance training, saffron, and crocin have shown antioxidant benefits individually, their comparative effects in Alzheimer’s models are not well established. The present study investigated changes in hippocampal oxidant-antioxidant markers in trimethyltin (TMT)-induced Alzheimer’s rats following eight weeks of endurance training (ET), with or without saffron (S) and crocin (Cr) supplementation.
Methods: The current study was performed on 49 male Sprague-Dawley rats (age: 8 weeks old, weight: ~220 g). Forty-two rats received TMT (8 mg/kg, [intraperitoneal] IP) and were randomly assigned to six groups: (1) AD, (2) ET, (3) S, (4) Cr, (5) ET+S, and (6) ET+Cr. Seven healthy rats served as controls (HC). Training groups ran on a treadmill for eight weeks (5 sessions/week, 15-30 min/session, 15-20 m/min). S and Cr groups received daily IP injections (25 mg/kg). Forty-eight hours following the intervention, hippocampal tissue was collected to measure superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA), and total antioxidant capacity (TAC). The data were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey’s post hoc test (SPSS software [version 22], P ≤ 0.05).
Results: Compared to the AD group, MDA levels decreased by 35-56%, and SOD levels increased by 193-257% in all the intervention groups. Moreover, TAC levels showed marked improvement, rising by 185%, 220%, 253%, 309%, and 335% in Cr, S, ET, ET+Cr, and ET+S groups, respectively (P < 0.05). The aforementioned findings highlight the superior antioxidant response in the combined intervention groups, compared to the response in single treatments (P < 0.05).
Conclusion: Endurance training, saffron, and crocin improved hippocampal antioxidant status in Alzheimer’s rats, with combined interventions yielding superior effects.
Ali Esmaeili , Abdolhamid Habibi , Mohammad Rami , Mehrzad Shabani ,
Volume 13, Issue 2 (5-2025)
Abstract
Background: Performing exercise training with various protocols, especially aquatic exercises, can be effective against the harmful effects of Multiple Sclerosis. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate the effect of six weeks of swimming training on the Caspase-1, TGF-β1, and IFN-γ protein content in the hippocampal tissue of rats with Multiple Sclerosis.
Methods: Twenty-one Wistar rats were divided into three equal groups: (1) Healthy control, (2) Multiple Sclerosis control, and (3) Multiple Sclerosis swimming. After two weeks of adaptation to the laboratory environment, the Multiple Sclerosis groups were induced by adding cuprizone to their diet. Six weeks of swimming training were then performed. Forty-eight hours after the last session, hippocampal tissue was isolated to examine Caspase-1, TGF-β1, and IFN-γ protein content. To analyze the data, one-way analysis of variance was used with a significance level of 0.05.
Results: Findings showed that the induction of Multiple Sclerosis in rats caused a significant increase in TGF-β1 and Caspase-1 protein content (P-Value=0.001) and a significant decrease in IFN-γ (P-Value =0.001). After six weeks of swimming, there was a significant decrease in Caspase-1 (P-Value =0.001) and a significant increase in IFN-γ (P-Value =0.001) protein content; however, there was no significant decrease in TGF-β1 protein content (P-Value =0.1).
Conclusion: Based on the findings of this study, it can be concluded that swimming, as a non-pharmacological intervention, has a protective effect on nerves by reducing factors related to inflammation and cell death, which may have beneficial effects on memory information processing in Multiple Sclerosis disease.
Jahanbakhsh Asadi , Asra Askari , Zeinab Mohammadi , Babaisan Askari ,
Volume 13, Issue 2 (5-2025)
Abstract
Background: The higher occurrence of NAFLD is associated with insulin resistance, obesity, and diabetes. A diet with high fat or sucrose serves as a NAFLD inducer in rats, which exhibits significant variability and generally results in low levels of liver inflammation and fibrosis. Our study highlights the role of combining animal fats with high sucrose in inducing NAFLD in Wistar rats.
Methods: Twenty male Wistar rats, 8 to 10 weeks old, were randomly divided into two groups: Control (healthy) and NAFLD induction. Weekly weight changes were recorded. After one week of adapted feeding, a 30% vegetable oil and 10% solid sugar diet was added to standard pellets to induce the NAFLD model. After ten weeks, the weight/time of progression of each mouse was measured. Serum and tissue samples were separated and stored for biochemical and histopathological studies. Comparisons were made using independent t-test for two groups with SPSS version 22. The significance level was set at 0.05.
Results: Our results illustrated that weight/time progress increased in the NAFLD-induced group (0.679 g ± 0.02, P < 0.001) more than in the control group (0.559 g ± 0.03). Additionally, FBS (P = 0.001), lipid profile [TG/HDL (P = 0.006), LDL/HDL (P = 0.03), Chol/HDL (P = 0.006), TG (P = 0.005), CHOL (P = 0.001), LDL (P = 0.008), VLDL (P = 0.005), HDL (P = 0.01)], liver function enzymes [ALT (P = 0.001), AST (P = 0.001)[ and IL-6 serum levels were significantly increased in the NAFLD-induced group compared to control rats (P = 0.001). Besides, the obtained results illustrated that the serum level of albumin was significantly decreased in NAFLD-induced rats compared to controls (P = 0.004). Moreover, Oil Red and H&E staining confirmed grade two steatosis induction.
Conclusion: Our study demonstrates significant metabolic abnormalities and steatosis in NAFLD-induced rats, underscoring the detrimental impact of this disease on liver function and overall health. These findings highlight the urgent need for further research into effective interventions for NAFLD.
Elham Heydarzadeh , Kamal Azizbeigi , Khalid Mohamadzadeh Salamat,
Volume 13, Issue 3 (7-2025)
Abstract
Background: Mitochondrial proteostasis disruption in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) results in impaired mitochondrial autophagy (mitophagy). This study evaluated the effects of 8-week aerobic exercise training (T), resveratrol (RSV) supplementation, and their combination on mitophagy markers in an AD rat model.
Methods: In this experimental study, 35 male Wistar rats were divided into five groups: Control (NO), Alzheimer’s (AD), Alzheimer’s-Training (ADT), Alzheimer’s-Resveratrol (ADRSV), and Alzheimer’s-Training-Resveratrol (ADTRSV). RSV groups received 20 mg/kg/day orally. The aerobic exercise protocol consisted of treadmill running (6–18 m/min) five days per week for eight weeks. Hippocampal PINK1 and PARKIN expression levels were analyzed.
Results: AD induction significantly reduced PINK1 and PARKIN expression (P < 0.001). Compared to the AD group, significant increases in PINK1 and PARKIN were observed in the ADT (P = 0.043; P = 0.005), ADRSV (P = 0.033; P = 0.046), and ADTRSV (P < 0.001) groups. The ADTRSV group showed higher PINK1 expression than ADT (P = 0.036) and ADRSV (P = 0.046), and greater PARKIN expression than ADRSV (P = 0.046).
Conclusion: Exercise training and RSV supplementation improved hippocampal mitophagy in AD rats, with synergistic effects observed in the combined intervention. These findings suggest that non-pharmacological strategies may mitigate AD-related mitochondrial dysfunction.
Farah Nameni , Elham Jebraiili ,
Volume 13, Issue 3 (7-2025)
Abstract
Background: Adaptation to hypoxia can improve cardiac function and reduce cardiac complications of diabetes. This study aimed to determine the effect of HIIT on the expression of VEGF-A and HIF-1α in the hearts of diabetic rats.
Methods: Male Wistar rats (weighing 200–250 g and eight weeks old) were used in this study. Rats in the training group warmed up for 5 minutes, then performed a HIIT swimming protocol (14 repetitions of 20 seconds with 10 seconds of rest; eight weeks, three sessions per week). An external load equivalent to 7% of body weight was attached to the base of the tail in the first week and gradually increased by 1% in the following weeks (eighth week: load equivalent to 14% of body weight). Twenty-two rats were made diabetic by subcutaneous injection of streptozotocin. Seven days after injection, rats with blood sugar levels above 300 mg/dL were selected as diabetic samples. Eleven rats were placed in the healthy control group. After eight weeks, the rats were anesthetized and their hearts were removed for sampling. Gene expression was examined using real-time PCR. Data are presented as mean ± standard deviation; one-way ANOVA and Tukey's post hoc test were used.
Results: VEGF-A mRNA expression in the HIIT group increased by 60% compared to the diabetic group (p < 0.06). In the diabetic group, VEGF-A mRNA expression showed a 47% decrease compared to the control group (p < 0.001). HIF-1α mRNA expression in the HIIT group increased by about 27% compared to the diabetic group (p < 0.001). HIF-1α mRNA expression in the diabetic group decreased by about 25% compared to the control group (p < 0.001).
Conclusion: Diabetes impairs the expression of HIF-1α and VEGF-A, and HIIT increases the expression of these genes in heart tissue.
Mohammad Jalilvand,
Volume 13, Issue 3 (7-2025)
Abstract
Background: Children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) frequently demonstrate significant impairments in fundamental motor skills (FMS), including locomotor and object control abilities. This study investigated the efficacy of an 8-week table tennis training program as a targeted intervention to improve FMS in this population.
Methods: In a quasi-experimental study, 30 male children with ADHD (aged 9 - 12 years) were assigned to either an experimental group (n = 15) or a control group (n = 15). The experimental group participated in a structured, 8-week table tennis training program, while the control group continued with their routine activities. The Test of Gross Motor Development-3 (TGMD-3) was administered to assess locomotor and object control skills before and after the intervention. Data were analyzed using paired t-tests and Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA) in SPSS-19.
Results: Following the intervention, the experimental group exhibited significant improvements in both locomotor (from 27.93 ± 1.90 to 31.33 ± 2.29, P-value < 0.001, η2 = 0.80) and object control skills (from 25.40 ± 1.91 to 29.93 ± 2.49, P-value < 0.001, η2 = 0.36). The control group showed no significant changes. ANCOVA results, controlling for baseline scores, confirmed a substantial between-group difference in the total motor score (F (1, 27) = 86.06, P-value < 0.001, η2 = 0.76).
Conclusion: An 8-week table tennis training program is an effective and feasible intervention for enhancing fundamental motor skills in children with ADHD. These findings support the integration of structured racket sports into physical activity programs to address motor proficiency deficits in this clinical population.
