International Journal of Health Studies (IJHS - Shahroud University of Medical Sciences)
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Biocentric and Life Course Perspectives on Risk Perception of COVID-19 and Climate Change: A Narrative Review
No full textBackground: Climate change (CC) and the COVID-19 pandemic are global crises that demand urgent policy attention. Although different in cause and timeline, both threaten health, livelihoods, and social stability. This study examines risk perception for COVID-19 and CC using a biocentric, Life Course perspective. We treat them as two sides of the same coin.
Methods: We performed a narrative review. Databases searched: Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed, and Google Scholar. Keywords included: COVID-19, climate change, global warming, risk perception, understanding, life center, and biocentric. Relevant studies were screened and synthesized to extract key findings.
Results: Both hazards have global health impacts and need coordinated biocentric responses. COVID-19 is acute and fast CC is chronic and slow. Both show poor public understanding of long-term risk. Risk awareness varies by population and life stage. Policies often ignore ecological and intergenerational effects.
Conclusions: Risk perception for CC and COVID-19 remains uneven and underdeveloped. A Life Course approach centering biology, ecology and development across lifespans can improve responses. We recommend greater public engagement and participatory solutions. Policymakers should shift from human-centered to Life Course frameworks to support ecological health and intergenerational resilience
Dynamics of Chrononutrition and Gut Microbiome Interactions, an Editorial Letter
No full textGrowing evidence from chronobiology and nutritional sciences suggests that the timing of food intake is as critical as dietary composition in regulating metabolic health. Chrononutrition, defined as the alignment of eating patterns with endogenous circadian rhythms, has emerged as a key modifiable determinant of glucose metabolism, insulin sensitivity, and systemic inflammation1,2. Circadian misalignment caused by late-night eating or irregular meal timing has been consistently associated with an increased risk of obesity, type-2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome1. Despite these advances, the underlying biological pathways linking nutrient timing to metabolic dysfunction remain incompletely understood.
Recent progress in gut microbiome research has demonstrated that intestinal microbial community’s exhibit pronounced diurnal oscillations driven largely by feeding–fasting cycles. These rhythmic microbial fluctuations influence metabolite production, immune signaling, and host energy metabolism3. However, most human nutrition studies continue to prioritize dietary composition over temporal eating patterns, leaving the interaction between chrononutrition and microbial rhythmicity insufficiently explored. Disruption of this host–microbe temporal alignment may represent an underrecognized contributor to metabolic disease pathogenesis.
Emerging experimental and observational evidence indicates that late-evening consumption of high-glycemic foods adversely affects metabolic outcomes by reshaping gut microbial composition. Studies have shown that evening carbohydrate-rich meals shift the relative abundance of Bacteroides species and reduce the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), particularly butyrate and propionate4. Given the established role of SCFAs in maintaining gut barrier integrity, modulating inflammation, and improving insulin sensitivity, reduced SCFA availability may partly explain the impaired postprandial glucose handling observed following late-night eating3,4.
Beyond microbial metabolites, circadian hormones play a critical role in mediating the metabolic consequences of nutrient timing. Melatonin secretion follows a robust circadian rhythm and is closely linked to glucose regulation and insulin secretion. Disruption of melatonin signaling through late-night food intake has been associated with impaired glucose tolerance and altered metabolic responses5. Similarly, dysregulated cortisol rhythms may interact with feeding time and microbial metabolism, further contributing to circadian misalignment and metabolic dysfunction.
To advance this field, we propose an integrative research framework combining longitudinal metagenomic profiling with controlled feeding windows and time-resolved metabolomic analyses. Synchronizing microbiome sampling with defined eating periods would enable the characterization of microbial rhythmicity in response to nutrient timing. The inclusion of targeted metabolomics of SCFAs, bile acids, and circadian hormones may further elucidate host–microbe cross-talk across the diurnal cycle. Advanced time-series and causal inference models could help disentangle temporal relationships between meal timing, microbial dynamics, and metabolic outcome6.
Ultimately, such integrative approaches may facilitate the development of personalized nutrient-timing strategies based on an individual’s microbial “chronotype.” Aligning dietary intake with both host circadian rhythms and microbial activity cycles could represent a novel preventive and therapeutic avenue for metabolic disorders, including type-2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome1,6,7. We hope that this perspective will stimulate interdisciplinary collaboration among nutrition scientists, microbiologists, and systems physiologists and encourage the incorporation of chrononutrition principles into future clinical nutrition guidelines
Epidemiology of Scorpion Stings in Southern Iran (Area under the Coverage of Iranshahr University of Medical Sciences) between 2020 and 2022Hekmatollah Khoubfekr1, Sanaullah Reisizadeh1, Abbas Balouchi2,3, Farzaneh Faraji Shahrivar2,4*
No full textBackground: Scorpion envenomation remains a major public health problem in tropical and subtropical regions, particularly in southern Iran. The southeastern provinces, including Sistan and Baluchestan, provide favorable ecological conditions for scorpion proliferation. This study aimed to describe the epidemiological characteristics and outcomes of scorpion sting cases recorded in the catchment area of Iranshahr University of Medical Sciences.
Methods: A retrospective descriptive-analytical study was conducted on all medical records of scorpion sting cases registered in health centers and hospital emergency departments across 12 counties affiliated with Iranshahr University of Medical Sciences between March 21, 2020, and March 20, 2022. Data included demographics, occupation, residence, sting location, temporal distribution, treatment received, and clinical outcomes.
Results: During the two-year period, 12,307 scorpion sting cases were recorded, with a period prevalence of 319 per 100,000 population. Females (56.2%) and housewives (40.2%) were disproportionately affected. Most cases occurred in rural areas (78.5%) and during summer months, peaking between 10 PM and 2 AM. The hands and feet were the most common sting sites (77.6%). Antivenom was administered in 88.5% of cases, and the case fatality rate was 0.2% (21 deaths). Mortality was significantly associated with delayed hospitalization and lack of timely antivenom administration.
Conclusions: Scorpion stings represent a continuing health challenge in southeastern Iran, particularly among rural women. Strengthening preventive education, ensuring timely access to antivenom, and improving clinical management protocols are essential to reduce morbidity and mortality in this endemic region
Epidemiological Study of Unintentional Poisonings of Patients Referred to Teaching Hospitals in Shahroud in 2020-2022
No full textBackground: Poisonings are a significant cause of hospital admissions and can lead to serious health issues, including death. Since the causes of poisoning can vary by region, it is essential to identify them for effective diagnosis and treatment. This study examined the patterns of unintentional poisonings among patients at Shahroud teaching hospitals.
Methods: This study employed a descriptive cross-sectional design to collect data on patients hospitalised for unintentional poisoning at hospitals affiliated with Shahroud University of Medical Sciences. Data collection occurred from March 20, 2020, to March 20, 2022, using a researcher-developed checklist. The data were analysed using both descriptive and analytical statistical tests in SPSS version 22.
Results: A total of 377 individuals were hospitalised for unintentional poisoning, with a mean age of 29.57 years. Among the cases studied, 65% were male, while 55.4% were single, and 69.5% lived in urban areas. Notably, 92.8% reported no prior history of alcohol consumption, 65.5% had no addiction issues, and 89.7% had no mental disorders. Most poisonings occurred in spring (27.1%), particularly in April (10.6%), at night (47.7%), and in the home (58.1%). Oral ingestion was the primary method (89.1%), with medications being the leading cause (53.3%). Methadone was the most hazardous substance, contributing to 18.8% of poisoning incidents. Patients typically arrived at the hospital within 30 to 60 minutes (62.3%) and stayed for 2 to 4 days (55.4%). Antidotes were needed for 41.4% of patients, with naloxone prescribed in 35.5% of cases. Following their recovery, 67.4% were discharged. Non-medicinal poisoning was most prevalent in children under five years of age and individuals over 46 years of age (P-value<0.001), while medicinal poisoning was more common in urban areas (P-value=0.003).
Conclusions: Studying the patterns of unintentional poisonings in a specific region can greatly enhance prevention and management strategies, ultimately saving lives. The results of this research enable healthcare providers to make informed clinical decisions and contribute to the development of practical guidelines for managing poisoning. By enhancing health and quality of life for individuals, this research undoubtedly reduces the financial burden on the healthcare system
Evaluating the Efficacy of Therapeutic Interventions for Head Lice: A Systematic Review
No full textBackground: Pediculosis remains a significant public health concern in many communities. Head lice infestations and their management continue to pose both clinical and social challenges. This systematic review aimed to evaluate the efficacy of various therapeutic interventions for head lice, focusing on their effectiveness in eradicating infestations.
Methods: A systematic search was conducted in databases PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus for studies published between 2013 and 2023, using the keywords Head lice, Pediculus humanus capitis, Pediculosis, and Treatment. Randomized or controlled trials with at least minimal blinding and participants aged over six months were included. Study selection and data extraction were performed independently by two reviewers.
Results: A total of 21 studies involving 3,232 participants met the inclusion criteria. Treatments were classified into chemical and non-chemical categories. Among chemical treatments, permethrin, dimethicone, ivermectin, and phenothrin were the most effective. Effective non-chemical interventions included natural oils and plant-based extracts such as eucalyptus. Reported treatment success rates showed considerable variability, ranging from 20% to 100%.
Conclusions: Pediculosis remains highly prevalent worldwide. Although various treatment options are available, selecting the most effective and least harmful intervention based on individual and regional factors is essential for optimal management
The Beneficial Effects of Exercise and Date Palm Pollen Supplement on Liver Histopathology in the Cadmium Chloride Toxicity Model
No full textBackground: Cadmium (Cd) is a highly toxic heavy metal that poses a significant health risk in vital organs such the liver. This study investigates the protective effects of aerobic exercise and hydroalcoholic extract of Date Palm Pollen (DPP) in rat Cd toxicity model.
Methods: Thirty-six male Wistar rats (230-250 g) divided to six experimental groups (n=6): control, exercise, Cd, Cd-exercise, Cd- exercise-200 DPP, and Cd-Exercise-400 DPP. Each group received a daily dose of 3mg/kg of Cd chloride via gavage. Then, DPP extract was administered intraperitoneally at doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg/day. The aerobic exercise protocol was involved the rats running on a treadmill at a speed of 27 meters/min, with an additional minute added to the training duration each day. The enzyme levels (AST, ALT, GGT) were measured and the histopathological analysis of liver tissue were performed after 5 weeks.
Results: Results demonstrated that treatment groups have the significant decrease of GGT and ALT serum levels compared with Cd group (GGT; P-value<0.001, ALT; P-value<0.05). However, there were no significant difference in AST serum level between different groups. Besides, the histopathological findings revealed the number of necrotic areas, sinusoids congestion, and inflammation in Cd group while these alternations were decreased in treatment groups compared with injured group.
Conclusions: The findings demonstrating that the combination of aerobic exercise and DPP extract effectively reduce inflammation and cellular damage in liver tissue. So, DPP extract with 200 mg/kg concentration along with regular exercise has hepatoprotective potential effect
Motivational Interviewing to Improve Inherent and Social Dignities Among Patients Undergoing Hemodialysis
No full textBackground: Motivational interviewing (MI) is a patient-centered counseling approach aimed at enhancing intrinsic motivation for behavior change by addressing ambivalence. While MI has shown promise in improving psychological and social outcomes in chronic illness, its impact on patient dignity remains underexplored. This study evaluated the effect of MI on the inherent and social dignity of hemodialysis patients.
Methods: A randomized clinical trial was conducted using convenience sampling with 70 hemodialysis patients in Iran. The intervention group received five 120-minute MI sessions over two weeks, based on Miller and Rollnick’s framework. Participants completed measures of inherent and social dignity before the intervention, immediately afterward, and again four weeks later.
Results: At baseline, the two groups were comparable in terms of inherent and social dignity. MI significantly improved both dimensions. Immediately following the intervention, the intervention group had higher total scores in social dignity (P-value=0.015), particularly in the family support and connection dimension (P-value=0.028). Additionally, notable improvements were seen in total inherent dignity (P-value=0.003), as well as in the family environment (P-value=0.001) and social environment (P-value=0.023) subscales.
Conclusions: MI significantly enhances both social and inherent dignity among hemodialysis patients, improving their psychosocial well-being. Healthcare managers should consider integrating MI into dialysis care routines to foster patient dignity and overall quality of life. Future studies are recommended to assess the long-term effects of MI and its applicability across broader clinical populations
Comparative Study on the Impact of Family Therapy and CBT on General Health and Quality of Life of Couples
Get PDFBackground: Psychosomatic issues are common among couples seeking divorce, with many experiencing anxiety, unexplained pain, gastrointestinal problems, and other symptoms, often showing significant improvement after therapy. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Structural Family Therapy (SFT) in enhancing the general health and quality of life of couples seeking divorce.
Methods: Thirty couples seeking divorce were referred to family counseling centers at the Minoodasht City Judiciary and met the inclusion criteria, were randomly selected and divided into two groups: CBT and SFT. Participants were assessed using general health and quality of life measures before and after Undergoing eight sessions of either CBT or Minuchin\u27s structural family therapy. Post-test scores were compared between the two groups.
Results: Paired t-test analysis revealed significant improvements in general health and quality of life scores for both therapy groups. Covariance analysis showed that both therapies were equally effective, with no significant differences in the level of improvement between the two groups.
Conclusions: Both structural family therapy and cognitive-behavioral therapy significantly and equally improve the general health and quality of life of couples seeking divorce.
Keywords: Cognitive-behavioral therapy, Structural family therapy, General health, Quality of life, Divorce
Two-Year Monitoring of Staphylococcus aureus Contamination in Traditional Shahroud Kebab and Ice Cream and Its Consequences on Public Health
No full textBackground: Staphylococcus aureus is a common enterotoxin-producing bacteria that can grow in food products such as kebabs and ice cream and cause food poisoning.
Methods: Using standard food sampling methods, over the course of two years from 2022 to 2024, samples of kebab and ice cream were collected from all traditional ice cream and traditional kebab stores in Shahrood, with a total number of 252 samples, and the amount of Staphylococcus aureus in these samples was examined according to the standard method of the Food Control Department.
Results: In terms of examining the contamination of the samples examined with Staphylococcus aureus bacteria, 37 cases (14.7%) were identified as positive out of a total of 252 samples. To examine the seasonal relationship and sample type, the chi-square test and logistic regression were used. The results showed that there was no significant relationship between the type of sample and the result of contamination with Staphylococcus aureus (P-value>0.05). The results of the logistic regression analysis also showed that the type of sample had no effect on the result of contamination.
Conclusions: The results of the present study show that the health index of kubideh kebab and chicken kebab, as well as ice cream in Shahroud city, is at a suitable level compared to other studies, which is attributed to the observance of hygiene in this area
Comparative Evaluation of Graphene Oxide, Zinc Oxide, and Zinc Sulfide Nanoparticles in Carbomer-HPMC for Enhanced Wound Healing
No full textBackground: Wounds are treated using various approaches, including hydrogel dressings and nanoparticles (NPs). Hydrogel dressings provide a cooling effect that promotes wound healing, while NPs such as graphene oxide (GO), zinc oxide (ZnO), and zinc sulfide (ZnS) enhance cellular activity and accelerate the healing process. This study aimed to investigate the effects of GO, ZnS, and ZnO NPs loaded with carbomer 980 and HPMC polymers on wound healing.
Methods: The mechanical and physical properties of the scaffolds were evaluated using FTIR, SEM, pH monitoring, degradation rate, water absorption, blood clotting index (BCI), and hemolysis tests. Biocompatibility and cell migration were assessed via MTT assay, DAPI staining, and scratch tests. In addition, full-thickness (15 mm × 15 mm) wounds were created in animal models, and wound healing was evaluated using Verhoeff-Van Gieson and hematoxylin-eosin staining.
Results: GO-based hydrogels exhibited superior biocompatibility, wettability, controlled degradation, enhanced cell viability, and accelerated cell migration compared to ZnS- and ZnO-based formulations when combined with carbomer 980 and HPMC polymers. Histological analysis revealed increased collagen and elastin synthesis, enhanced angiogenesis, and greater epidermal thickness.
Conclusions: The prepared hydrogels show promising potential for wound healing applications. Further clinical studies are warranted to validate their therapeutic efficacy