Search published articles
Showing 43 results for Medical
Volume 1, Issue 3 (12-2013)
Abstract
Aim: Education is a service, which is influenced by the provider. Nowadays, there are a lot of challenges in health care systems, which requires a proper preparation to meet them. Medical interns are one of the future components of health care system, who should be prepared very well to meet these challenges. We preformed this survey to assess the medical interns’ satisfaction in Shahid Beheshti university of Medical Sciences (SBMU) by “SERVQUAL”. Methods: Medical interns of (SBMU), who have spent at least 6 months in their internship, were included in this research. They were 141 medical interns out of all (201). Finding: This survey showed that all of SURVQUAL dimensions had gaps. Medical interns of SBMU were not satisfied with their internship. There was also no relationship between interns’ dissatisfaction and their applied-year and gender. Conclusion: The internship bylaws should be reviewed, and medical interns should have more attention from dean of medicine school, head departments, and hospital administrators.
Volume 2, Issue 3 (11-2012)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Problems such as less working and aggression in organizations force organizations to reduce these behaviors and increase behaviors that are beneficial such as productivity for organization. One of the elements that create benefits like productivity in organization is Organizational Citizenship Behavior. The purpose of this research is Organizational Citizenship Behavior factor linkage appointment with human resources productivity among selected Hospitals of Tehran Medical Sciences University and Shahid Beheshti Medical Sciences University. Method and material: This research is done in six selected Hospitals of Tehran Medical Sciences University and Shahid Beheshti Medical Sciences University .The data are collected by distributing questionnaires among 429 staff of the hospitals via random 2-stage Sampling method. The research methodology is cross-sectional- descriptive and the type of research is a field study. In order to confirm or reject research hypotheses, we use Spearman Correlations and regression in SPSS software [version 16]. Results: The findings show that in personnels’ point of view, there is a significant correlation between Organizational Citizenship Behavior and staff's productivity in
Volume 2, Issue 4 (10-2016)
Abstract
Background: Hepatitis B infection is a major public health problem worldwide. Given that immune response towards the vaccine is not perfect, we aimed to evaluate circumstances of immune response in vaccinated students.
Materials and Methods: In this study, 219 medical students of Ardabil University of Medical Sciences were recruited, who had been administered vaccine series for the first time, and booster doses after one and six months completely. The serum samples were extracted from whole blood of the participants. The concentration of Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and anti-HBs antibody (HBsAb) was measured using a commercial ELISA kit.
Results: It was observed that 201 cases (91.8%) out of 219 cases had positive anti-HBs antibody response, and 18 subjects (8.2%) were nonresponsive cases. Level of HBsAb was significantly different between males and females as well as alcoholics and non-alcoholics. None of the cases was identified as positive for HBsAg.
Conclusion: Considering the results of the present and previous studies in other countries, it can be claimed that the mass vaccination has been effective, especially in medical students.
Volume 4, Issue 1 (3-2016)
Abstract
The study was conducted to investigate the effect of humic acid on the germination properties of medicinal plants Borago officinalis and Cichorium intybus in a completely randomized design with five replications. Experimental treatment comprised the following dosages 0, 15, and 30 g l-1. The results revealed that effect of humic acid on the germination properties of C. intybus was significant (p<0.01) except for the germination percentage and mean germination time (p< 0.01). In addition, humic acid was effective on the morphological properties of C. intybus except for radical and pedicel dry weight. Humic acid was also effective on the germination properties of B. officinalis except for the germination percentage (p<1%); it was only effective on morphological properties viz. radical fresh weight, seedlings’ pedical length and allometric coefficient. The most effect was obtained in the 30 g l-1 humic acid.The control treatment had the least effect on the plant's properties. In conclusion, the results showed that application of 30 g l-1 humic acid was effective in germination of the plant species and stimulated the plants germination.
Volume 4, Issue 1 (1-2016)
Abstract
Background: The comprehensive evaluation program of the health system in higher education is a strategic plan in line with the goals of health reform program. The planning levels are based on 12 general policies. As professors of medical universities have an important role in public health promotion, this study aimed to identify the outcomes of faculty development at medical universities in Northern part of Iran, based on evolution and innovation program of medical education.
Methods: This qualitative research was conducted using Grounded Theory Approach during 2015-2016. The research population consisted of 22 faculty members of medical universities in Northern part of Iran. Sampling was performed by a purposive sampling method for those who had responsibilities at university or college.
Results: The results of the obtained data suggested two main themes: the internal university outcomes (i.e. Promotion of education quality at universities) and external university outcomes (i.e. Public health promotion).
Conclusion: It is suggested to education policy makers to apply a more accurate and systematic plan in order to achieve development and growth of their faculty members; so, the effectiveness and efficiency of faculty members and consequently higher education will be promoted.
Volume 4, Issue 1 (7-2019)
Abstract
Aims: Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are of concern in health problem with highest prevalence and are one of the causes of occupational disability in Medical care professions (MCPs). This study aimed to describe the rate of MSDs among MCPs who working in Lorestan hospitals, Iran.
Instruments & Methods: Using a convenience sampling in this descriptive study, 100 MCPs from two hospitals of Azna and Aligodarz of Lorestan province were selected. Data collected through a demographic questionnaire by which the questions regarding different MSDs were asked. Date were entered into SPSS 21 and analysed using descriptive analysis.
Findings: Totally, 100 MCPs took part in the study and responded to the questions (responded rate 100%). Back pain and neck pain were the most common area of participants’ complains respectively. Eighty seven participants (88%) of the MCPs stated they did not follow any pain treatment or pain management. Furthermore, the majority of the participants (N=64, 64%) of the participants believed that stress has not significant associate with their pain. However, thirty six participants (36%) stated that their pain has been worsening with increased stress.
Conclusions: This study revealed that the majority of the studied MCPs suffered from a kind if MSDs without any pain treatment/ management work up. Therefore, dong more studied to confirm these results in this special target group working in these hospitals and to explore the causes of pain is strongly recommended.
Instruments & Methods: Using a convenience sampling in this descriptive study, 100 MCPs from two hospitals of Azna and Aligodarz of Lorestan province were selected. Data collected through a demographic questionnaire by which the questions regarding different MSDs were asked. Date were entered into SPSS 21 and analysed using descriptive analysis.
Findings: Totally, 100 MCPs took part in the study and responded to the questions (responded rate 100%). Back pain and neck pain were the most common area of participants’ complains respectively. Eighty seven participants (88%) of the MCPs stated they did not follow any pain treatment or pain management. Furthermore, the majority of the participants (N=64, 64%) of the participants believed that stress has not significant associate with their pain. However, thirty six participants (36%) stated that their pain has been worsening with increased stress.
Conclusions: This study revealed that the majority of the studied MCPs suffered from a kind if MSDs without any pain treatment/ management work up. Therefore, dong more studied to confirm these results in this special target group working in these hospitals and to explore the causes of pain is strongly recommended.
Volume 4, Issue 17 (12-2007)
Abstract
S. Saket
Abstract:
Hakim Nezami of Ganja, is the greatest storyteller throughout the history of Persian literature. Not only are the wide variety of his works challenging from an artistic and literary point of view, but also they can be studied from scientifical and sociological aspects. Unfortunately these works have scarcely had the opportunity to be noticed; compared to his stunning literary creations. Yet they reveal other aspects of his potential and power once a close and deep study is devoted to the mentioned works.
This article evaluates some medical issues in Nezami’s works, by comparing them with significant ancient medical books. "Qanun" (The Law), "Hedayate Al-Motaalemin fi Teb" (Guide Book for Physicians), and "Al Abnia an Haghayegh al Advia", etc. are some of the books used for this comparative study. The result shows that Nezami had a very serious knowledge of medicine. There is even the possibility that he has gained all this information directly from ancient medical books.
Volume 5, Issue 4 (1-2020)
Abstract
Aim: Back pain is a common disabling chronic problem that burdens individuals, families and societies. Chronic Low Back Pain (CLBP) has a significant effect on functional status and limiting work activity. This study aimed to assess the status of CLBP and disability among individuals who referred to Zanjan University of Medical Sciences (ZUMS).
Methods and Materials: This descriptive study was performed on individuals with CLBP who referred to the teaching hospitals of ZUMS. In this study, the demographic questionnaire and the Oswestry Lumbar Disability Questionnaire were used to collect information to assess disability and change in life activities. The questionnaire of Van Korf et al. was used to measure pain intensity with Numerical Pain Rate (NPR). Finally, the data were entered into SPSS software version 26 and statistical analysis was performed in frequency / percentage.
Findings: Totally 238 individuals including 159 (66.8) women with a mean age of (40.06±13.22) and 79 (33.2) men with a mean age of (35.56±16.12) participated in the study completed the questionnaires. According to the results, 56.3% (N=) of participants have disabilities and 34.5% (N=) have low disabilities.
Methods and Materials: This descriptive study was performed on individuals with CLBP who referred to the teaching hospitals of ZUMS. In this study, the demographic questionnaire and the Oswestry Lumbar Disability Questionnaire were used to collect information to assess disability and change in life activities. The questionnaire of Van Korf et al. was used to measure pain intensity with Numerical Pain Rate (NPR). Finally, the data were entered into SPSS software version 26 and statistical analysis was performed in frequency / percentage.
Findings: Totally 238 individuals including 159 (66.8) women with a mean age of (40.06±13.22) and 79 (33.2) men with a mean age of (35.56±16.12) participated in the study completed the questionnaires. According to the results, 56.3% (N=) of participants have disabilities and 34.5% (N=) have low disabilities.
Volume 6, Issue 2 (6-2018)
Abstract
Aims: The psychological capital is one of the important indicators of positive psychology and it has positive outcomes for students. The present research aimed at studying the status of psychological capital of students in Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences and its related factors.
Instruments and Methods: The present descriptive-analytical cross sectional research was conducted among 384 students in Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences in 2016. The samples were selected by simple random sampling method. Luthans et al.’s psychological capital questionnaire was employed for the data collection and data analysis was performed, using SPSS 22 software by descriptive statistics (mean and standard deviation) and inferential statistics (Mann-Whitney U test and Kruskal-Wallis test).
Findings: A total of 150 participants (39.2%) were male and 233 (60.8%) were female; 351 participants (91.6%) were single and 32 (8.4%) were married. The mean score of the psychological capital of students was 89.09±9.98. Minimum and maximum means were measured for Optimism and Self-efficacy. There was a significant relationship between sex, field of study, academic degree, and faculty place with psychological capital (p<0.05).
Conclusion: Factors such as sex, field of study, academic degree, and faculty place are effective in the psychological capital of students.
Volume 7, Issue 1 (1-2019)
Abstract
Aims: The aim of this study was to determine the effect of drought stress induced by using polyethylene glycol (PEG), heavy metals (Cd and Ni), and salinity (NaCl) on germination and seedling growth of Sinapis arvensis, an important medicinal plant in the Brassicaceae.
Materials & Methods: The Sinapis arvensis seeds treatments contained i), control ii), PEG (5%, 10%, 15%), iii) NaCl (50, 100, 150 mM), iv) Cd+2 (50, 100, 150μM), and v) Ni+2 (50, 100, 150μM). The experiment used a randomized complete block design with 4 replicates per treatment. The experiments were performed in a programmed incubator at 25±2oC. Seed germination was recorded every day for 16 days. The root and shoot lengths of seedlings were measured after 16 days of incubation. Then, the seedlings were dried and root and shoot dry weights were measured.
Findings: The results showed that germination percentage reduced with increasing concentrations of the tested factors. The maximum germination (97%) was observed in PEG (5%) and the minimum germination rate was recorded in NaCl (150 mM) with 41%. The maximum of root and shoot lengths were recorded in PEG (5%) and Ni (100μM) with 59 and 73 mm, respectively. Results showed that the maximum root and shoot fresh and dry weights were recorded at Ni (100μM) treatment.
Conclusion: Understanding plant responses to environmental stresses can help select suitable plants in order to obtain sustainable products. Overall, we can conclude that under aforementioned treatments, the root growth of S. arvensis was more affected than the shoot growth.
Materials & Methods: The Sinapis arvensis seeds treatments contained i), control ii), PEG (5%, 10%, 15%), iii) NaCl (50, 100, 150 mM), iv) Cd+2 (50, 100, 150μM), and v) Ni+2 (50, 100, 150μM). The experiment used a randomized complete block design with 4 replicates per treatment. The experiments were performed in a programmed incubator at 25±2oC. Seed germination was recorded every day for 16 days. The root and shoot lengths of seedlings were measured after 16 days of incubation. Then, the seedlings were dried and root and shoot dry weights were measured.
Findings: The results showed that germination percentage reduced with increasing concentrations of the tested factors. The maximum germination (97%) was observed in PEG (5%) and the minimum germination rate was recorded in NaCl (150 mM) with 41%. The maximum of root and shoot lengths were recorded in PEG (5%) and Ni (100μM) with 59 and 73 mm, respectively. Results showed that the maximum root and shoot fresh and dry weights were recorded at Ni (100μM) treatment.
Conclusion: Understanding plant responses to environmental stresses can help select suitable plants in order to obtain sustainable products. Overall, we can conclude that under aforementioned treatments, the root growth of S. arvensis was more affected than the shoot growth.
Volume 7, Issue 4 (4-2019)
Abstract
Aims: This study was carried out to determine the prevalence rate of academic burnout and its related factors among the students of Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences in 2017.
Materials & Methods: The method of the present study was a descriptive survey method. The statistical community of this study included all students of Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences among whom 382 students. Maslach questionnaire of academic burnout (1999) was employed for data collection and data analysis was performed using SPSS 16 software, descriptive statistics (mean, standard deviation) and inferential statistics (Mann Whitney U, Kruskal-Wallis).
Findings: The average age of the students under study was 21.51±2.08. Two hundred and sixteen participants (56.5%) were male and 166 (43.5%) were female. 22 participants (5.8%) had associate's degrees, 315 participants (82.5%) were undergraduate and 45 participants (11.8%) were studying in Master and higher levels. 357 students (93.5%) were single and 25 (6.5%) were married. Mean score of the academic burnout of students who participated in the study was 60.88±9.98. The results of data analysis showed that there has been a significant relationship between gender and place of university in one hand and academic burn out in another hand (p≤0.01) as well as between major of study and academic burnout (p≤0.05).
Conclusion: A significant percentage of students are suffering from academic burnout. Also, students with different majors of study may experience a different academic burnouts.
Volume 7, Issue 27 (9-2019)
Abstract
One of the distinguishing features of Khāghāni’s Divan is the reflection of various people’s beliefs, socio-cultural customs of the people of that time including childish games, and superstitious beliefs .The popular and sometimes superstitious beliefs that have been prescribed in the past for the treatment of various disease have been reflected among the ancient Persian literary works especially Khāghāni’s Divan. One of these ancient medical beliefs about the treatment of animals and insects bites and stings, the treatment of some other disease, such as plague and colic, was the use of a tired cock which has run a lot before Dhabīḥah. In Folk medical and traditional books, different ways have been examined in order to use them in the case of this medical belief. To make run the old cock with other animals, however and according to ancient beliefs makes their meat tender. This research investigates these cases based on verses of Khāghāni’s Divan.
Volume 8, Issue 1 (3-2020)
Abstract
Aims: Motivation is increasing the feeling of attachment and involvement in a workplace. In the field of medicine, in which the lives of individuals are at stake, motivation of faculties, who are at the same time, educators and also physicians, becomes more critical. The aim of this research was to explore the medical faculties' perceive motivation in their academic lifework.
Participants & Methods: In this research was adopted a qualitative method by semi-structured interviewing 33 medicine faculties at Tehran University of Medical Sciences. The Braun and Clark's thematic analysis approach was used for data analysis to identify themes related to visible and invisible motivators in an academic lifework.
Findings: It was identified two major themes after analyzing the interviews: “Enterprise-level and visible motivators", and “Community- level and invisible motivators ". It was also identified five sub-themes: “Perceived need for authority and justice in scientific activities ", "Financial motives",” Incentive system (tangible and intangible support) of academic activities ",” Perceived need for a complementary atmosphere", and “Perceived need for a collaborative atmosphere".
Conclusion: Faculties' perception of job motivation goes beyond visible, self-interest, and enterprise level motivators. They also perceive community-level factors of working at complementary and collaborative atmosphere as major motivators.
Participants & Methods: In this research was adopted a qualitative method by semi-structured interviewing 33 medicine faculties at Tehran University of Medical Sciences. The Braun and Clark's thematic analysis approach was used for data analysis to identify themes related to visible and invisible motivators in an academic lifework.
Findings: It was identified two major themes after analyzing the interviews: “Enterprise-level and visible motivators", and “Community- level and invisible motivators ". It was also identified five sub-themes: “Perceived need for authority and justice in scientific activities ", "Financial motives",” Incentive system (tangible and intangible support) of academic activities ",” Perceived need for a complementary atmosphere", and “Perceived need for a collaborative atmosphere".
Conclusion: Faculties' perception of job motivation goes beyond visible, self-interest, and enterprise level motivators. They also perceive community-level factors of working at complementary and collaborative atmosphere as major motivators.
Volume 8, Issue 1 (3-2020)
Abstract
Aims: Health promotion competencies were defined as a combination of the essential knowledge, abilities, skills and values necessary for the practice of health promotion. The aim of this study was to assess the extent to which health promotion core competencies has been integrated in higher education (undergraduate and postgraduate) curricula of ministry of health and medical education in Iran.
Participants & Methods: In this qualitative content analysis, all the curricula of ministry of health and medical education of Iran were checked for the presence of courses such as health education, promotion, communication, consultation and planning, etc. through a summative approach.
Findings: Totally 241 curricula were checked. In the most of study fields, there were not the courses improving their competencies that constitute a common baseline for their health promotion roles especially in professional doctorate (medicine, pharmacy and dentistry) degrees.
Conclusion: Health promotion core competencies should be identified and considered in developing educational curricula for all health practitioners as an essential component of developing and strengthening workforce capacity to ensure quality health promotion practice.
Participants & Methods: In this qualitative content analysis, all the curricula of ministry of health and medical education of Iran were checked for the presence of courses such as health education, promotion, communication, consultation and planning, etc. through a summative approach.
Findings: Totally 241 curricula were checked. In the most of study fields, there were not the courses improving their competencies that constitute a common baseline for their health promotion roles especially in professional doctorate (medicine, pharmacy and dentistry) degrees.
Conclusion: Health promotion core competencies should be identified and considered in developing educational curricula for all health practitioners as an essential component of developing and strengthening workforce capacity to ensure quality health promotion practice.
Volume 8, Issue 3 (10-2020)
Abstract
Aims: Mobile phone use has become increasingly popular among university students. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate the status of mobile phone use among university students and its relationship with demographic characteristics.
Instruments & Methods: In this cross-sectional study conducted in 2016, 272 students of Yazd University of Medical Sciences were selected using a stratified random sampling method. The data collection tools included demographic information and excessive mobile phone use questionnaire. The data were analyzed by SPSS 16 software using Mann-Whitney and Kruskal-Wallis tests.
Findings: There was no significant relationship between students' age, gender, education level, and residence place with mobile phone use total score (p>0.05). However, there was a significant relationship between the variables of cigarette smoking, coffee consumption, and listening to music before bedtime with the mobile phone use total score among university students (p<0.05). Moreover, there was a significant relationship between the education level of university students’ parents and mobile phone use score (p<0.05).
Conclusion: High value of adequate and correct education of students towards Internet and social media addiction, in addition to increase the level of media literacy are critical issues to consider in this regard.
Instruments & Methods: In this cross-sectional study conducted in 2016, 272 students of Yazd University of Medical Sciences were selected using a stratified random sampling method. The data collection tools included demographic information and excessive mobile phone use questionnaire. The data were analyzed by SPSS 16 software using Mann-Whitney and Kruskal-Wallis tests.
Findings: There was no significant relationship between students' age, gender, education level, and residence place with mobile phone use total score (p>0.05). However, there was a significant relationship between the variables of cigarette smoking, coffee consumption, and listening to music before bedtime with the mobile phone use total score among university students (p<0.05). Moreover, there was a significant relationship between the education level of university students’ parents and mobile phone use score (p<0.05).
Conclusion: High value of adequate and correct education of students towards Internet and social media addiction, in addition to increase the level of media literacy are critical issues to consider in this regard.
Volume 9, Issue 3 (7-2021)
Abstract
Aims: Nowadays, the importance of morning reports for discussing clinical cases and making the best-informed decision for a therapeutic process is undeniable. Therefore, this study aimed to improve clinical morning reports' information adequacy by developing a structured reporting model.
Participants & Methods: This qualitative research was conducted in three phases at the Obstetrics and Gynecology Department of three educational hospitals in northeastern Iran in 2018. After investigating the current status of MR sessions, the content of 120 reports was included and extracted. The items were assigned subject groups for primary structuring while their validation was getting confirmation using a two-round Delphi technique involving ten specialists. Then, the structured model of clinical MRs was developed in two formats: structured paper-based form and structured electronic format. The final evaluation was conducted comparing three practices of structured paper-based, structured electronic format, and conventional formats. Excel 2010 software was used for the analysis of the results.
Findings: All studied MR samples were found unstructured in content. From 120 collected samples, 58 items were extracted and categorized into four categories. During the first Delphi round, all existing information was preserved with varying weights. Nevertheless, the participating experts also suggested six additional items to be included. In the second round, 11 items with the lowest scores were removed. Results of the comparative evaluation showed that the SPF format scored highest on the preference of use, ease of archiving and retrieval, application in future research, and ease of reporting. The SEF format scored highest on the clear understanding of patient status and readability.
Conclusion: Using a standardized structured morning report based on the preference of local experts improves the quality of morning reports in various matters, including efficiency, adequacy, and ease.
Participants & Methods: This qualitative research was conducted in three phases at the Obstetrics and Gynecology Department of three educational hospitals in northeastern Iran in 2018. After investigating the current status of MR sessions, the content of 120 reports was included and extracted. The items were assigned subject groups for primary structuring while their validation was getting confirmation using a two-round Delphi technique involving ten specialists. Then, the structured model of clinical MRs was developed in two formats: structured paper-based form and structured electronic format. The final evaluation was conducted comparing three practices of structured paper-based, structured electronic format, and conventional formats. Excel 2010 software was used for the analysis of the results.
Findings: All studied MR samples were found unstructured in content. From 120 collected samples, 58 items were extracted and categorized into four categories. During the first Delphi round, all existing information was preserved with varying weights. Nevertheless, the participating experts also suggested six additional items to be included. In the second round, 11 items with the lowest scores were removed. Results of the comparative evaluation showed that the SPF format scored highest on the preference of use, ease of archiving and retrieval, application in future research, and ease of reporting. The SEF format scored highest on the clear understanding of patient status and readability.
Conclusion: Using a standardized structured morning report based on the preference of local experts improves the quality of morning reports in various matters, including efficiency, adequacy, and ease.
Volume 9, Issue 42 (12-2021)
Abstract
Literature Review
So far, two books have been written on mineralogy. First, Mineralogy in Ancient Iran by Zavesh who has made a few mentions of some therapeutic properties of the stones. Second, The Encyclopedia of the Precious and Semi-Precious Stones and Minerals in the Persian Literature, by Mohammadi and Farmani Anosheh who also referred to some medical power of the stones, here and there (Mohammadi & Farmani Anosheh, 2013, pp. 14, 17, 29, 44). Besides these books on mineralogy, Zolfaghari has also touched on some curing qualities in his book Iranian’s Folk Literature (Zolfaghari, 2016, pp. 109, 122, 123, 307). Jahanshahi Afshar, in an article titled ‘Therapeutic Properties of Precious Stones in Ancient Medical and Literal Texts’, has also recounted the healing power of ten stones (see: Jahanshahi Afshar, 2016, pp. 306-315).
Aims, questions, and hypotheses
The main purpose of this study is to investigate the therapeutic features of minerals in ancient texts and to offer a factual and accessible discussion on this topic. The major research question in this essay is: what are the most important stones' curative properties in ancient texts and how these properties can be categorized and analyzed? The basic hypothesis, accordingly, is that there are plenty of discussions about and references to therapeutic properties of minerals in mineralogical and medical texts as well as encyclopedias which through extraction, categorization and analysis give us a clear insight of ancient people’s perception of mineral medications.
Main discussion
Curative qualities of minerals lend themselves to study and analysis from three main perspectives: first, those features which were put in use for psychotherapy, ophthalmology, oral, and nasopharyngeal disease, internal conditions, kidney and bladder ailments, pregnancy and birth giving, arthritis and swellings, skin and hair disorder, wounds and injuries, poisons and antidotes; Second, there are disease preventions, and third, medical instruments.
In psychotherapy, some disorders such as melancholy, lunacy, epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease and insomnia were treated by means of stony corals, platinum, gold and silver. Some minerals were also considered to be effective in reliving sadness and raising one’s spirit (Tousi, 2008, p. 149). They also believed that some stones improved quality of sleep (Shahmardan ibn Abi Alkheir, 1983, p. 267). Minerals were used for curing some eye ailments as well (Ansari Shirazi, 1992, p. 174), for example, Malachite was used to treat Slack and Pterygium (Nasiruddin Tousi, 1967, p. 119). They were utilized to treat oral and nasopharyngeal disease, too. Some minerals were put in use to treat internal diseases such as stomach or liver disorder like cirrhosis. Treatment of kidney and bladder was another therapeutic application of minerals. Some traditions related to child birth and pregnancy were rooted in beliefs in supernatural or magical properties of stones. Another important therapeutic application of minerals was treatment of joint disease such as Gout. They were also thought of as effective in dermatology and hair disorders. Injuries also were sometimes treated by minerals. Poisoning and poison related disease were partly cured using minerals. Prevention of some diseases like cholera and plague also was belied to possible by means of minerals and finally, another group of mineral stones were used in making tools like needle, mirror or knife which were also believed to be helpful in curing some ailments.
Conclusion
Reliance on curative properties of minerals which has been documented in resources such as mineralogical and medical texts, encyclopedias and fantasy books, gave them the second important position for curing diseases after herbal and organic treatments. The therapeutic minerals were manufactured and applied in a variety of methods the most important of which were grinding, burning, drinking, eating, coating, fastening, hanging, taking with oneself and watching at them. These treatments covered an extended range of experimental attributes to traditional and popular beliefs.
References
Ansari Shirazi, A. (1992). Ekhtiarat e Badi’i (edited by M. T. Mir). Pakhsh e Razi, Pharmaceutical Co.
Jahanshahi Afshar, A. (2016). Therapeutic properties of precious stones in ancient medical and literal texts. Journal of Islamic and Iranian Traditional Medicine, 7(3) 306-319.
Mohammadi, M., & Farmani Anousheh, N. (2017). The encyclopedia of The precious and semi-precious stones and minerals in the Persian literature. Zavar.
Nasirudin Tousi, M. (1969). Ilkhani’s Tansoukh-Nameh (edited by M. T. Modares Razavi). Iran’s Culture Institute.
Shahmardan ibn Abalkhair. (1983). Alaei’s Nozhatnameh (edited by F. Jahanpour). Cultural Studies and Researchers Institute.
Tousi, M. (2008). Wonder creatures and strange animals. Cultural and Scientific.
Zolfaghari, H., & Shiri, A. (2016). Iranian’s folk literature. Cheshmeh Publication.
So far, two books have been written on mineralogy. First, Mineralogy in Ancient Iran by Zavesh who has made a few mentions of some therapeutic properties of the stones. Second, The Encyclopedia of the Precious and Semi-Precious Stones and Minerals in the Persian Literature, by Mohammadi and Farmani Anosheh who also referred to some medical power of the stones, here and there (Mohammadi & Farmani Anosheh, 2013, pp. 14, 17, 29, 44). Besides these books on mineralogy, Zolfaghari has also touched on some curing qualities in his book Iranian’s Folk Literature (Zolfaghari, 2016, pp. 109, 122, 123, 307). Jahanshahi Afshar, in an article titled ‘Therapeutic Properties of Precious Stones in Ancient Medical and Literal Texts’, has also recounted the healing power of ten stones (see: Jahanshahi Afshar, 2016, pp. 306-315).
Aims, questions, and hypotheses
The main purpose of this study is to investigate the therapeutic features of minerals in ancient texts and to offer a factual and accessible discussion on this topic. The major research question in this essay is: what are the most important stones' curative properties in ancient texts and how these properties can be categorized and analyzed? The basic hypothesis, accordingly, is that there are plenty of discussions about and references to therapeutic properties of minerals in mineralogical and medical texts as well as encyclopedias which through extraction, categorization and analysis give us a clear insight of ancient people’s perception of mineral medications.
Main discussion
Curative qualities of minerals lend themselves to study and analysis from three main perspectives: first, those features which were put in use for psychotherapy, ophthalmology, oral, and nasopharyngeal disease, internal conditions, kidney and bladder ailments, pregnancy and birth giving, arthritis and swellings, skin and hair disorder, wounds and injuries, poisons and antidotes; Second, there are disease preventions, and third, medical instruments.
In psychotherapy, some disorders such as melancholy, lunacy, epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease and insomnia were treated by means of stony corals, platinum, gold and silver. Some minerals were also considered to be effective in reliving sadness and raising one’s spirit (Tousi, 2008, p. 149). They also believed that some stones improved quality of sleep (Shahmardan ibn Abi Alkheir, 1983, p. 267). Minerals were used for curing some eye ailments as well (Ansari Shirazi, 1992, p. 174), for example, Malachite was used to treat Slack and Pterygium (Nasiruddin Tousi, 1967, p. 119). They were utilized to treat oral and nasopharyngeal disease, too. Some minerals were put in use to treat internal diseases such as stomach or liver disorder like cirrhosis. Treatment of kidney and bladder was another therapeutic application of minerals. Some traditions related to child birth and pregnancy were rooted in beliefs in supernatural or magical properties of stones. Another important therapeutic application of minerals was treatment of joint disease such as Gout. They were also thought of as effective in dermatology and hair disorders. Injuries also were sometimes treated by minerals. Poisoning and poison related disease were partly cured using minerals. Prevention of some diseases like cholera and plague also was belied to possible by means of minerals and finally, another group of mineral stones were used in making tools like needle, mirror or knife which were also believed to be helpful in curing some ailments.
Conclusion
Reliance on curative properties of minerals which has been documented in resources such as mineralogical and medical texts, encyclopedias and fantasy books, gave them the second important position for curing diseases after herbal and organic treatments. The therapeutic minerals were manufactured and applied in a variety of methods the most important of which were grinding, burning, drinking, eating, coating, fastening, hanging, taking with oneself and watching at them. These treatments covered an extended range of experimental attributes to traditional and popular beliefs.
References
Ansari Shirazi, A. (1992). Ekhtiarat e Badi’i (edited by M. T. Mir). Pakhsh e Razi, Pharmaceutical Co.
Jahanshahi Afshar, A. (2016). Therapeutic properties of precious stones in ancient medical and literal texts. Journal of Islamic and Iranian Traditional Medicine, 7(3) 306-319.
Mohammadi, M., & Farmani Anousheh, N. (2017). The encyclopedia of The precious and semi-precious stones and minerals in the Persian literature. Zavar.
Nasirudin Tousi, M. (1969). Ilkhani’s Tansoukh-Nameh (edited by M. T. Modares Razavi). Iran’s Culture Institute.
Shahmardan ibn Abalkhair. (1983). Alaei’s Nozhatnameh (edited by F. Jahanpour). Cultural Studies and Researchers Institute.
Tousi, M. (2008). Wonder creatures and strange animals. Cultural and Scientific.
Zolfaghari, H., & Shiri, A. (2016). Iranian’s folk literature. Cheshmeh Publication.
 |
Volume 10, Issue 2 (5-2022)
Abstract
Aims: Nowadays, the acquisition of innovative approaches and techniques that use the Internet is one of the main goals for the development of higher medical education in Ukraine. This paper aimed to describe the effectiveness of blending learning in the preparation of medical students.
Instrument & Methods: The authors designed a course “Medical English for Specific Purpose” and implemented it into the educational process.
Findings: The majority of students and teachers agreed that the developed course should be integrated into the educational process.
Conclusion: From this research, it can be concluded that blending learning is an integral part of modern education with the ability to use collaborative and critical thinking skills. In such kind of education, the role of a teacher changes to the facilitator who involves and stimulates students to go through real problem solving and meaningful lifelong learning experiences.
Volume 10, Issue 4 (9-2022)
Abstract
Aims: The Electronic Health Record is a collection of medical information about a person's health status. The development of electronic health records has occurred worldwide, and developing countries, including Iran, have been no exception and have tried to take action in this regard. Therefore, this study aimed to review the types of Electronic Health Records designed in Iran.
Information & Methods: This systematic review was conducted without any time limitation until 12 June 2022 by searching the keywords "Electronic Health Record", and "Iran", and their synonyms in the Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, SID, and Magiran databases, and Google Scholar search engine. Published articles on the development or design of electronic health records in Iran were reviewed.
Findings: Among 28 papers, 11, 6, and 11 records were designed in Electronic Health Record, Electronic Medical Record, and Personal Electronic Record formats, respectively. Approximately 46% of the studies only designed electronic records but never implemented them, and the rest (54%) had completed the electronic record development. Among 15 implemented records, 7, 4, and 4 were in Personal Electronic Record, Electronic Health Record, and Electronic Medical Records formats, respectively. In addition, implementation platforms for records were in the form of web-based, mobile-based, and windows-based applications. Most of the minimum data set in the designed records were demographic data, medical history, therapeutic procedures, and laboratory tests.
Conclusion: Designing various Electronic Health Record systems for different diseases and clinical conditions can be an effective step toward developing a national Electronic Health Record.
Volume 10, Issue 4 (9-2022)
Abstract
Aims: It is important to know the factors that influence physicians when choosing a medical specialty so that authorities can improve the admission and selection processes for medical residency positions accordingly. This study aimed to determine the factors that influence the choice of medical specialty among general practitioners of Peru.
Instruments & Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using a self-administered questionnaire and included 576 general practitioners who were preparing for the medical residency exam in Peru. To establish the association of demographic variables and other factors with the choice of medical specialty, we used Pearson’s chi-square test or Fisher’s exact test.
Findings: Most participants were women (56.8%) under 30 years (79.2%). The specialties in high demand were pediatrics (11.1%), general surgery (7.3%), and gynecology and obstetrics (5.4%). Most physicians believed that their university education did not prepare them enough for the residency exam (59.8%). Moreover, 64% of the participants chose their specialty based on vocation and mainly intended to work in hospitals where they could better perform their clinical and surgery rotations (40.5%). Most participants did not consider the economic factor as decisive for choosing their medical specialty (76.3%). Male physicians (p˂0.0001) and those who consider the economic factor (p=0.008) important for choosing their medical specialty were more likely to choose a surgical specialty.
Conclusions: Physicians already have a fixed choice and do not choose specialties where there is less competition. Economic factors are not decisive in choosing a specialty. Additionally, we observed few applicants for primary care specialties.