bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cluster of variations involving vertebral, renal, and obturator arteries in a single human body- A cadaveric case report
Authors: Rajasekhar SSSN  , Kaliyamoorthy Kalaivani , Govindarajan Sankaranarayanan
Published: January 2024

We describe a unique triad of arterial variations that include vertebral, renal, and obturator arteries in a single cadaver. A combination of arterial variations was observed in a 60-year male; formalin embalmed cadaver during the routine dissection while teaching undergraduate students. The origin, course, branching pattern, and termination of the vertebral, renal, and obturator arterial systems were noted, along with the vessels' diameter close to their origin. The following variations were observed: a) Hypoplastic V4 segment of the right vertebral artery; Right Posterior Inferior Cerebellar artery had a relatively proximal origin from the V4 segment of vertebral artery and coursed in an inverted ‘U’ shaped manner cranially, which resembled duplicated V4 segment of the right vertebral artery, b) Right accessory renal artery originated from abdominal aorta distal to the right renal artery and the right gonadal artery originated from the right accessory renal artery, c) Right obturator artery originated from the posterior division of the right internal iliac artery, and the left obturator artery originated from the trunk of the left external iliac artery. Such a combination of variations in the anatomy of vertebral, renal, and obturator arteries was not reported previously. This case report will interest neurosurgeons and radiologists because of the possibility of concomitant arterial variations.
Grade I Meningioma in a cadaver – A case report
Authors: Londhe Shashikala , Gosavi Anjali , Kasegaonkar Minakshi , Bhosle Nilesh
Published: January 2024

In a routine dissection of anatomy department in Ashwini Rural Medical College and Research Centre Kumbhari, Solapur, Maharashtra. While removing the brain from the cadaveric skull.

Noticed a small tumor of measuring 1.3cm in length, 1.3cm in breadth and 1.2cm in height, situated at the orbital surface of the brain in the gyrus rectus of a male cadaver.

In the histological study it was diagnosed as a Meningioma grade I.

It was small size encapsulated tumor on inferior aspect of brain. On histological study, it showed meningo epithelial cells in whorl pattern, blood vessels, fibrous tissue Psammoma bodies, which indicate grade I meningioma.
Prospective study on antibiotic prescription in South Indian pediatric population – a pediatrician’s and parent’s perspective
Authors: Dinesh K. , Rangasamy K. , Sreenivasan V.
Published: January 2024

Background: Soaring rates of antibiotic prescriptions to children have led to antibiotic resistance in the community. Thus, prescribing, dispensing, administering, and using medication needs special attention in the current scenario. Objectives: To study the pattern and rationality of antibiotic use in pediatric patients (1 month to 18 years of age) by using the patient records & prescription and to assess parents' awareness of treatment received and antibiotic awareness by using a questionnaire. Materials and Methods: It was a Prospective study performed at Pediatric OPD of Vinayaka Missions Kirupananda Variyar Medical College and Hospital for 6 months wherein a total of 1200 paediatric OPD and IPD patients were included. The patient’s/caretaker’s adequacy of each parameter was given a Score of 1 and a Score of 0 for inadequacy. Based on these seven parameters, each patient was given a Score of a minimum of 0 to a maximum of 7. Results: The patients included Neonates (6%), infants (8%), children (56%) and adolescents (30%). Results showed that 58% of male patients were majorly affected than female pediatric individuals (42%). The use of antibiotics was observed only in 14 out of 1200 prescriptions. Among the antibiotics, cefotaxime was the most frequently prescribed medication. As per the sum of scores obtained by the patients, 492 (42%) of 1200 patients understood their drug use parameters moderately, followed by well-understood 408 (34%) and poorly understood 300 (24%). Conclusion: This study highlights the rational use of antibiotics among patients and healthcare professionals, thus paving the way to minimize antibiotic resistance.
Antibiotic resistance and Staphylococcal super antigenic determinants in methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus isolated from anterior nares of dental students
Authors: Vinshia Jebadass Jasmine , Padmavathy Kesavaram , Sudha Jimson , Sathyapriya Baskaran
Published: January 2024

Background: Staphylococcus aureus primarily inhabits the human anterior nares. Asymptomatic Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) nasal carriage in healthcare professionals makes them potential MRSA reservoirs. Since identification and decolonization would promote cross-contamination reduction and curb communal transmission, this study was designed to identify MRSA nasal carriers among dental students and detect staphylococcal super antigenic determinants among them. Methods: Staphylococci isolates (n=52) from dental students(n=42) were investigated in the study. Following initial microbial speciation and antimicrobial susceptibility determination using standard identification methods, the MRSA strains were identified phenotypically using cefoxitin disc (30 µg). Genes encoding the virulence determinants, namely, TSST (test), enterotoxins (sea and seb), and cytotoxin (pvl), were looked for by PCR. Results: Only 15.09% of isolates were identified as Staphylococcus aureus, and all of them (n=8) were scored as MRSA using the cefoxitin disc diffusion method. None of the tested isolates showed the presence of virulence determinants in standard molecular techniques. Conclusion: Lower prevalence of S. aureus, MRSA, coupled with the absence of virulence determinants in the strains, suggests strategies for better surveillance. Tracking virulence-causing genes in nasal carrier S. aureus strains could enhance efforts to prevent infection outbreaks.
Prospective study of hyperglycemia and its impact on the causation of severe exacerbations in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients attending a tertiary care hospital
Authors: Kalyani Kakumanu , Chappidi Rajesh Reddy , Muthineni Manoj Kumar
Published: January 2024

Background: Hyperglycemic states are always associated with sudden onset of illnesses of both infectious and non-infectious nature. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is a chronic, lifelong suffering illness with sudden exacerbations. Objectives: To compare the affiliation of hyperglycemia with the chance of sudden exacerbations in sufferers with an established diagnosis of obstructive airway disease (COPD). Materials Methods: A total of 263 patients with an established diagnosis of COPD were taken into this observational study. The duration of the study extended between Jan. 2022 to July 2023. Sufferers were divided into 3 classes following the guidelines of the American Diabetes Association; those classes were: low HbA1c level class (n=102), moderate HbA1c level (n=83), and severe HbA1c level (n=74). Results: Among the 263 participants, 72 (27.4%) suffered severe exacerbation. The share of sufferers tormented by a minimum of one episode of intense and sudden exacerbation becomes extensively higher among participants with high (36.3%) and moderate HbA1c levels (24.7%) when compared with low HbA1c levels (22.6%). On the MCRA, high HbA1c levels (HR=2.65, 95% CI: 1.92–4.31; P<0.01) and moderate HbA1c levels (HR=2.06, 95% CI: 1.64–3.29; P<0.01). Participants with hyperglycemia were significantly associated with a higher risk of the next severe exacerbation compared with a euglycemic state. Conclusion: irrespective of current/previously established diagnosis of diabetes, hyperglycemic states are associated with a higher risk of severe exacerbation in patients with COPD.
Features of the Optic Disc Anatomy in Elderly Men
Authors: Lutsai E. D. , Naidenova S. I. , Astaf’ev I. V. , Dal’ T. N.
Published: January 2024

Among the anomalies of the optic disc development, which change its anatomical characteristics, are the druses of the optic disc. Diagnostically, the druses of the optic disc are manifested by protrusion into the vitreous body, and changing in the area of the optic disc and its excavation. The aim of the study is to obtain new data on the optic disc anatomy in elderly men. Material and methods. The study was conducted in a group of men from 61 to 75 years old. The study included 53 eyes of patients treated with a disease of the visual organ unrelated to the pathology of the optic disc and macula. The study was carried out on the Optovue RTVue XR Avanti Sistem device using standard 3D Disc, GCC, ONH programs. Using optical coherence tomography the following morphometric parameters of the optic disc were evaluated: the volume of excavation, the thickness of the retinal nerve fiber layer, the area of the optic disc, the depth, the width and the area of the excavation of the optic disc in the horizontal plane. Conclusion. In the group of men from 61 to 75 years old, with increasing age, there is a decrease in the thickness of the retinal nerve fiber layer, the width of the excavation of the optic disc and the area of the optic disc. The shapes of optic disc excavation in elderly men are different, the triangular shape prevails – 47,8%, the remaining shapes occur with the same frequency.
Immunohistochemical Characterization of Heart Left Ventricle Morphogenesis in Rats Fetuses
Authors: Ivanova V. V. , Erokhina A. V. , Nikonova A. D. , Panfilova P. A. , Sedinova V. N. , Serebryakova O. N.
Published: January 2024

Rats are the most common objects of preclinical studies, which determines the relevance of studying fetal cardiomorphogenesis in rats using modern methods of morphological studies. The aim is to study the dynamics of markers of proliferation (Ki67), apoptosis (caspase 3), vascularization (CD31), and stromal remodeling (MMP2 and MMP9) of the left ventricular myocardium of Wistar rat fetuses. Material and methods. A histological, immunohistochemical and morphometric study of the rat heart left ventricle wall was carried out on the 18th, 19th, 20th, 21st and 22nd days of the prenatal period of ontogenesis. Results. From the 18th to the 22nd day of the prenatal period of ontogenesis in rats, a twofold increase in the thickness of the left ventricle lateral wall is observed, due to both proliferation and differentiation and an increase in the size of cardiomyocytes. Ki67-positive cardiomyocytes are diffusely localized in the wall of the left ventricle, their number increases on day 19 of the prenatal period of development and remains at a high level until the end of the prenatal period in rats. From the 18th to the 22nd day of the prenatal period of ontogeny in rats, single caspase 3-positive cardiomyocytes are detected in the left ventricle. The growth of the left ventricular myocardium in the fetal period in rats is accompanied by an adequate rate of vascularization. The vascularization and proliferation of cardiomyocytes are accompanied by remodeling of the myocardial stroma, with the highest intensity of MMP2- and MMP9-immune staining observed at the beginning of the fetal period of ontogeny in rats. Conclusion. The short duration of prenatal ontogenesis in rats determines the high dynamics of cardiomorphogenetic processes. In the fetal period of rat ontogenesis in the left ventricle of the heart, the proliferation of cardiomyocytes prevails over the intensity of apoptosis. The intensity of proliferation of cardiomyocytes of the left ventricle of rats is high up to the 22nd day of the prenatal period of ontogenesis.
Model of Hypogonadism by Method of Testicular Ischemization and its Morphological Substantiation
Authors: Lisovskii A. D. , Droblenkov A. V. , Bobkov P. S. , Bairamov A. A.
Published: January 2024

This study is devoted to the morphological substantiation of the model of male hypogonadism and establishing the effectiveness of its replacement therapy using morphological methods. Material and methods. 5 groups of adult male Wistar rats (4 individuals each) were studied. Four groups of rats were experimental. Under anesthesia, the left and right spermatic cords with the vascular bundle were tied with a temporary ligature, inducing hypogonadism. In the first two experimental groups of rats, the ligature was applied for 30 and 60 minutes (respectively). Animals in the other two experimental groups received replacement therapy by administering kisspeptin K6. Animals of the third experimental group began to receive kisspeptin a few minutes after restoration of blood flow in the testicle (ex tempore), and rats of the fourth group - after 3 days. The duration of replacement therapy is 7 days. In histological sections of the right and left testicle (n = 8), the number of viable and dying interstitial endocrine cells was counted (under the control of an immunohistochemical reaction with caspase 3), the percentage of these types of cells from their total number was calculated, and the area of viable endocrinocytes was determined. Testosterone levels were determined in the blood of animals of all groups. The significance of differences in the median, upper and lower quartiles of the compared parameters was determined using the nonparametric Mann–Whitney test. Results. It has been established that the modeling of male hypogonadism by applying a double-sided ligature to the vessels of the spermatic cord for 60 minutes and the animals experiencing it for the next 10 days induces pronounced reactive changes and the death of some interstitial cells, inhibition and cessation of spermatogenesis. Kisspeptin KS6, administered ex tempore and regularly after acute ischemia, has a protective effect on interstitial endocrinocytes and testicular spermatogenic cells, including anti-apoptotic, restoring spermatogenesis, probably realized through the activation of the central links of the hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular axis.
Morphofunctional Characteristics of Dorsal Root Ganglion Neurons in the Dynamics of Healing of a Purulent Wound
Authors: Nikityuk D. B. , Fetisov S. O. , Klochkova S. V. , Alexeeva N. T.
Published: January 2024

Abstract. between the morphological and functional state of spinal ganglia neurons and the dynamics of healing of a purulent wound in an experimental animal during its natural course and complex therapy with hydropulse sanitation (HIS) and the addition of platelet-rich blood plasma (PRP). Material and methods. In an experiment on 100 white outbred rats, a purulent wound on the lateral surface of the thigh was modeled by introducing a daily culture of Staphyllococcus aureus. Two groups were formed: natural healing and healing after therapy with hydropulse sanitation of the wound with an isotonic NaCl solution followed by the addition of platelet-enriched autoplasma. The material for the study was taken on the 1st, 3rd, 5th, 7th, 14th, and 21st days. The area of the wound and the dynamics of its healing were assessed using the planimetric method. For the study, lumbar spinal ganglia (SG) of segments LIII–LV. were taken. At the light-optical level, after staining with cresyl violet according to Nissl and azure B according to the S. Shea method, the area of nerve cells was measured, photometry of RNA content was carried out, and the number of satellite gliocytes was counted. The obtained data were processed using statistical analysis methods. Results. The healing process of a purulent skin wound ended with the formation of a scar on days 7–14 for both experimental groups. The use of GIS and PRP demonstrated better dynamics of defect closure - a reduction in wound area by 59.35±3.4% (p=0.018) in the period from 3 to 5 days, compared with 40.05±2.9% (p=0.009) with natural healing. The response of SG neurons during healing was characterized by pronounced polymorphism. The maximum number of cells with reactive changes during natural healing was observed on the 5th day of the experiment (17.2±3.2% for A-neurons and 36.7±4.3% for B-neurons). Complex therapy led to a decrease in the proportion of both reactively altered and destructive neurons. The cell area, RNA content, and the number of satellite glia increased on average by the 7th day of the experiment. Separate close correlations were identified between the dynamics of changes in the wound area and the studied quantitative characteristics. Conclusion. A purulent wound causes a complex of nonspecific reactions in the neurons of the SG. In the dynamics of wound healing, neurons with reactive changes more often demonstrated biphasic dynamics, more pronounced for B-type cells with a primary reaction on days 1–3 and a further transition to regenerative hypertrophy or destruction. Regenerative changes in SG neurons had a close correlation with the processes of regeneration of the wound defect.
Modulation of cancer progression by circRNA/ NF-kB axis
Authors: Ostovar Tahmine , Goodarzi Golnaz , Samavarchi Tehrani Sadra
Published: January 2024

The newest class of noncoding RNAs with distinctive characteristics is called circular RNAs (circRNAs). These novel RNAs are more stable than other RNAs because they lack 5’ and 3’ ends, instead having their two ends created from pre-mRNA through a process called back-splicing. They are also widely expressed in a variety of species, including viruses, plants, and mammals. There is growing evidence that circRNAs are enriched in the NF-κB pathway. The development of many types of malignancies is associated with aberrant activation of the NF-κB pathway. Recent findings indicate that the circRNA/NF-κB axis controls the expression of genes linked to cancer and, consequently, the growth of tumors. Moreover, circRNAs might interact with the NF-κB pathway to affect biological processes of cells. A comprehensive understanding of the molecular processes behind the involvement of circRNA linked to the NF-κB pathway in the progression of distinct malignancies would provide novel opportunities for cancer therapy. Therefore, this article will briefly discuss the function of circRNAs and the NFκB pathway in cancer. Next, it will address the crucial role that circRNAs associated with NF-κB play in the progression of different types of malignancies.
Effect of Nigella sativa Supplementation on Lipid Profile in Type 2 Diabetes: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Ccontrolled Trials
Authors: Aliyari Mahdieh , Hashemy Seyed Isaac , Ghavidel Farideh , Hosseini Hossein
Published: January 2024

Objectives: Type 2 diabetes has become a global health burden, especially in developing nations, and is frequently linked to dyslipidemia. While various medications are available, there is a growing interest in herbal remedies such as Nigella sativa (N. sativa) as alternative treatments for type 2 diabetes. In this systematic review and meta-analysis, the objective was to assess the impact of N. sativa on the lipid profile of patients with type 2 diabetes.
Methods: Online databases, including Web of Science, Scopus, PubMed, and EMBASE, were searched. Changes in lipid profile parameters were reported as weighted mean differences, along with a 95% confidence interval. Sensitivity analysis, quality assessment, subgroup analysis, and publication bias were evaluated in the eligible studies.
Results: The study was performed on eight randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving 1030 participants. According to the findings, supplementation of N. sativa in the form of seed powder or oil significantly reduced total cholesterol and LDL-cholesterol levels, while increasing HDL-cholesterol levels in patients with type 2 diabetes. The funnel plot exhibited visual symmetry for the studies included in the meta-analysis.
Conclusion: The findings indicate that N sativa may be beneficial as an adjunctive treatment alongside standard medications for managing dyslipidemia in individuals with type 2 diabetes.
Caffeic acid stimulates breast cancer death through Reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation, Caspase activation and mitochondrial membrane potential depletion
Authors: Robati Ali Karami , Shahsavari Zahra , Vaezi Mohammad Amin , Safizadeh Banafsheh , Shirian Farzad Izak , Tavakoli-Yaraki Masoumeh
Published: January 2024

Objectives: The aim of this study is to evaluate the potential effect of caffeic acid (CAF) on the growth of breast cancer cells, in addition to determining the contributing role of caspases, mitochondria, and oxidative status.
Methods: MCF-7 and MDA-MB-468 breast cancer cells were exposed to varying concentrations of CAF for different periods of time. The potential cytotoxic effect was measured using the MTT assay. The activities of caspase 3 and caspase 8, as well as the cellular level of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the level of mitochondrial membrane potential (Δψm), were evaluated in different groups of cells.
Results: The findings showed that CAF decreased the percentage of MCF-7 and MDAMB-468 cells in a manner that depended on the dose and duration of exposure. The death of breast cancer cells induced by CAF was associated with an increase in ROS level in both cell lines. The decrease in mitochondrial membrane potential (Δψm) following CAF treatment suggests that mitochondrial dysfunction may be involved in the death of breast cancer cells induced by CAF. Importantly, the activity of caspase 8 increased after treatment, indicating the potential involvement of the extrinsic apoptosis pathway in the inhibition of breast cancer cell growth by CAF. The dosage of 20µm of CAF following 48 hours of incubation appeared to have the most significant impact on breast cancer cells.
Conclusion: The study highlights the potential pro-apoptotic effect of CAF in both estrogen-positive and estrogen-negative breast cancer cells. This, in conjunction with other evidence, may lead to new insights for more effective therapeutic approaches in breast cancer
Association between Thyroid Function indices and Thyroid Autoantibodies with Thyroid Ultrasonography Outcomes in Children and Adolescents
Authors: Rostami Rahim , Beiranvand Asghar , Nourooz-Zadeh Sarmad , Rostami Massoumeh , Mohammadi Afshin , Nourooz-Zadeh Jaffar
Published: January 2024

Objectives: Thyroid Ultrasonography (US) is recommended as a valuable tool for evaluating the status and function of the thyroid gland. The objective of this study was to compare and analyze the thyroid ultrasonography outcomes in children and adolescents who have normal thyroid function and thyroid antibodies.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on a group of 233 selected females aged 9 to 14 years old. Blood samples were obtained from the subjects and analyzed for thyroid hormones and thyroid autoantibodies. Additionally, a thyroid ultrasound was performed to provide an in-depth evaluation.
Results: Of all the participants, 25% displayed hypoechogenicity. Individuals with reduced echogenicity had higher median levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), thyroid peroxidase antibody (TPO-Ab), and thyroglobulin antibody (Tg-Ab) compared to those with normal echogenicity. Moreover, those with hypoechogenicity had significantly higher thyroid volume (TVol), iodine status, and thyroglobulin levels than their counterparts with normal echogenicity. Hypoechogenicity was also significantly associated with higher levels of TPO-Ab, Tg-Ab, and TSH. Logistic regression analysis revealed that high TSH and TPO-Ab levels were associated with a higher risk of irregular echo patterns and thyroid autoantibodies.
Conclusion: The results revealed that irregular thyroid patterns in the ultrasonography were useful for assessing thyroid structure and dysfunction. Moreover, elevated TPOAb, Tg-Ab, and TSH concentrations in the serum may indicate thyroid malfunction. Ultrasound can help to identify early thyroid dysfunction along with the standard thyroid assessment biomarkers.
Association of the rs236918 variant of PCSK7 with the prevalence of the metabolic syndrome and its components in population from Ahvaz cohort study: A case-control study in Iran
Authors: Dinarvand Negar , Rahimi Mojdeh , Shahbazian Hajieh , Birgani Maryam Tahmasebi , Cheraghian Bahman , Mohammadtaghvaei Narges
Published: January 2024

Objectives: The proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 7 (PCSK7) enzyme is encoded by the PCSK7 gene and is involved in the processing and activation of latent precursor proteins. Previous studies have reported that some PCSK7 variants are associated with markers of body iron stores and lipid profiles, as well as obesity and insulin resistance. The aim of this study was to investigate the association of the rs236918 variant of PCSK7 with metabolic syndrome (MetS) and its related components.
Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 325 participants in the age group of 25 to 86 years were examined. Standard protocols were employed to measure body mass index, blood pressure, fasting blood glucose, total cholesterol (TC), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), and triglycerides (TG). Individuals with metabolic syndrome (MetS) were identified in accordance with the guidelines set by the National Cholesterol Education Program. Genotype was determined using the PCR-RFLP method.
Results: The findings revealed that there was no association between the rs236918 variant and increased risk of MetS or its components and also plasma lipid profile.
Conclusion: Overall, the findings exhibit no significant association between the PCSK7 rs236918 polymorphism and MetS in this population. Although these results may be due to sample size and power issues, the role of lifestyle factors and other genes in the development of MetS appears to be more important in this population. Therefore, further research is required to validate these results.
Alpha Lipoic Acid Protects Human SH-SY5Y Cells Against Quinolinic Acid-Induced Toxicity: Focusing on ROS Levels and Cell Cycle
Authors: Rostami Mehdi , Vaezzade Seyed Amir , Gheybi Elaheh , Azadi Hanieh Nadi , Rajabian Arezoo , Forouzanfar Fatemeh , Soukhtanloo Mohammad
Published: January 2024

Objectives: An abnormal buildup of Quinolinic Acid (QuA) is usually linked to the death of nerve cells and a condition known as neuritis in various forms of neurodegenerative illness. Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA) has substantial antioxidant properties, according to previous studies. However, the protective effects of ALA against the neurotoxicity induced by QuA are unknown. This work aimed to determine whether ALA could shield the SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cell line from QuA-induced neurotoxicity.
Methods: Cell viability was assessed using the MTT assay, while cell cycle and apoptotic effects were evaluated using flow cytometry. Cellular levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) were also examined.
Results: The findings showed that ALA, at non-toxic concentrations, had a protective effect against QuA-induced toxicity. Moreover, pretreatment with ALA reduced the number of cells that underwent apoptosis. Also, it was found that the percentage of apoptotic cells (i.e., those in the sub-G1 phase) was considerably increased following QuA therapy. ALA also dramatically reduced the production of ROS by QuA.
Conclusion: The results suggest that ALA appears to be an effective neuroprotectant and antioxidant against QuA-induced neurotoxicity.
Investigating the Impact of Semantic Operations on PersianSpeaking Aphasics: Further Evidence on the Localization View
Authors: Azad Omid , Ghonchepour Mousa
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Broca and Wernicke’s patients perform satisfactorily regarding the processing of canonical syntactic structures, as maintained by previous studies; however, there has been a gap in the literature because no particular research has yet investigated the performance of these patients in the Persian circumstances once they were required to analyze sentences which would demand extra-semantic processing. This study clarifies the role of two critical semantic operations demanding extra-semantic processing at the sentential level: Aspectual coercion. It complements to provide some evidence on the localist view of the brain. Our rationale for selecting these operations was their pure semantic nature, not relying on morphosyntactic properties.
Materials and Methods: Having recruited two age- and education-matched Broca, two Wernicke, and four healthy controls, we conducted a semantic judgment task in which the participants were asked to express their correct semantic judgment in the two coercion and two normal conditions.
Results: Our results showed an approximately above-chance performance of the Broca group for all conditions; however, in the Wernicke group, the same result was not observed due to their poor performance in coercion conditions, though in ordinary sentences, they performed much better.
Conclusion: Our findings, along with similar off-line and imaging studies, corroborate the view of localism, based on which Wernicke’s area is mainly responsible for the primary semantic operations while Broca’s area predominantly takes over syntactic parsing.
Investigating the Effects of Face Mask on Word Recognition Score Test During the COVID-19 Outbreak: Considerations and Limitations
Authors: Mousavi Seyede Zohre , Maleki Mehri , Maarefvand Mohammad , Borna Azadeh
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Using personal protective equipment, especially face masks, in the COVID-19 pandemic era may make verbal communication difficult. Furthermore, acoustic changes in mask-wearing conditions may affect speech audiometry results. This study investigates the effect of wearing a face mask on the word recognition score and the role of speech frequency content in this effect.
Materials and Methods: This study was planned and conducted in two phases. In the first phase, the validity and reliability of two speech material lists, high-pitch and low-pitch, were determined. In the second phase, the word recognition score was measured for “mask-wearing” and “covering mouth without a mask.”
Results: The statistical analysis showed that the content validity ratio was 0.92, and the content validity index was 0.8. Therefore, both speech lists were valid. For these lists, the mixed analysis of variance analysis showed that the scores for “mask-wearing” were significantly lower than “covering mouth without a mask,” and there was more reduction in scores for the high-pitched list (F=8.7, df=1, P<0.005).
Conclusion: In terms of the impact of a face mask on speech, explaining how speech audiometry is performed, especially in monitoring treatments, may help limit the probability of misinterpretation of speech test findings. Furthermore, understanding the impact of face masks on word recognition scores in adopting sufficient auditory rehabilitation procedures is necessary.
Investigating the Effects of Simulation-Based Teaching on Learning Domains Designed for Physiotherapy Students
Authors: Mishra Siddharth Satish , Palekar Tushar , Panhale Vrushali
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Simulation-based teaching is a technique for imitating a situation’s behavior or process via a suitable analog situation for training or teaching purposes. Simulation-based teaching is widely used in various domains; however, there is limited literature on evaluating the role of simulated-based teaching in physiotherapy. This study investigates the effect of simulation-based teaching on learning domains for traumatic brain injury topics framed for final-year physiotherapy students.
Materials and Methods: A total of 51 final-year physiotherapy students were randomly selected and allocated into two groups. Group A (n=25) includes didactic with PowerPoint presentation teaching session. Group B (n=26) includes simulated-based teaching sessions. There were eight simulators selected and trained for the Ranchos Los Amigos stages. The students were assessed using a self-designed pre-post multiple-choice questions (MCQ) test for knowledge and a clinical evaluation exercise for affective and psychomotor skills.
Results: This study showed that group B significantly improved in the pre-post self-made MCQ test (t=17.34, P=0.00), and in the clinical evaluation exercise, group B performed 43.66% better than group A.
Conclusion: The study concludes that simulation-based teaching significantly improves cognitive, affective, and psychomotor skills compared to traditional methods for traumatic brain injury topics framed for final-year physiotherapy students.
Investigating the Predictive Factors of Life Balance in Mothers of Children with Cerebral Palsy
Authors: Bastami Leyla , Jahantabi-Nejad Seifolah , Ghasemzadeh Roya , Akbari Maimanat , Dastoorpour Maryam
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Having a child with cerebral palsy (CP) is a stressful experience for the family, particularly mothers. Caring for these children occupies great time and energy from the family. The balance of life may be decreased by the influence of factors related to the child or mother. Accordingly, this study investigates the predictive factors affecting the life balance of mothers with CP
Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional descriptive-analytical research was conducted in Ahvaz City, Iran, in 2021. A total of 135 mothers (mean age=33.37 [7.93]) with at least one child under the age of ten suffering from CP participated in this research. The data were collected using the life-balance index, general health questionnaire, time management quality, and demographic information checklists. The gross motor function classification system was expanded and revised, and the manual ability classification system was used to determine the gross motor and manual ability function levels. Generalized univariate linear models were used to investigate the effects of predictor variables on the quantity of life balance.
Results: The life balance of mothers of children with CP was heavily unbalanced (45.2%) or unbalanced (35.6%). Based on the regression coefficient of each variable, it was determined that manual ability classification system (β=0.192), comorbidity in the children with CP (β=0.187), gross motor function (β=0.137), general health (β=0.024), and maternal age (β=0.01), respectively, contributed the most in the prediction of life balance variances.
Conclusion: Life balance is a seriously affected domain in mothers caring for CP children. Child-related factors had a more effective role in predicting the life balance of mothers of CP children than mother-related factors
Investigating the Solutions for the Implementation of Articles 25 and 26 of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities
Authors: Najafi Zahra , Abdi Kianoush , Khanjani Mohammad Saeed , Dalvand Hamid , Amiri Mehdi
Published: January 2024

Introduction: In 2008, Iran acceded to the convention on the rights of persons with disabilities (CRPD), including the right to health and rehabilitation. However, the goals of this convention have not yet been achieved in Iran. This study provides solutions for implementing articles 25 (health) and 26 (rehabilitation) CRPD in Iran.
Materials and Methods: This was a qualitative study conducted through content analysis. A total of 21 individuals were selected via the purposive sampling method. The data were collected through semi-structured interviews. The interviews continued until we reached information saturation. Data analysis was performed manually using the MAXQDA software version 10. 
Results: After the interviews, 860 initial codes were obtained. After removing the unrelated codes and merging the codes by overlap, 725 codes remained. The concepts were classified into four main categories and 15 subcategories: Development of a comprehensive rehabilitation program, culture and education, capacity building, and compliance with legal requirements
Conclusion: According to the results, because of severe problems in the field of health and rehabilitation of disabled people in Iran, taking necessary measures to solve these problems is essential. Hence, a comprehensive plan should be developed. Meanwhile, proper education, culture building, talents, and opportunities should be considered more carefully. Also, by facilitating services for people with disabilities and paying attention to the importance of being demanding, we can build capacity in the country. The findings of this research will provide a bright way for policymakers, administrators, and planners of the country.
Investigating Gait Speed as the Index of Exercise Tolerance in Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction
Authors: Takeyoshi Masaki , Togami Wakana , Hiyama Kei , Takashio Seiji , Arima Yuichiro , Tsujita Kenichi , Miyamoto Takeshi
Published: January 2024

Introduction: As an essential factor affecting life prognosis and rehospitalization in patients with chronic heart failure, exercise tolerance is a significant outcome of cardiac rehabilitation. Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) from reduced diastolic capacity has recently increased among patients with chronic heart failure. This study evaluates the factors indicating exercise tolerance in patients with HFpEF from various perspectives, including cardiac and skeletal muscle functions.
Materials and Methods: The subjects were 31 patients with HFpEF who underwent cardiac rehabilitation. The exercise tolerance was assessed using a 6-min walking test. Physical function, physical activity, body composition test, baseline characteristics, blood data, and echocardiography results were extracted from medical records to identify the indicators of exercise tolerance
Results: Gait speed significantly differed in exercise tolerance for HFpEF patients (β=0.75, P<0.01). Unlike heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF), HFpEF was not significantly different in brain natriuretic peptide levels and cardiac function.
Conclusion: Gait speed indicates exercise tolerance in HFpEF patients; however, its pathological course differs from heart failure with reduced ejection fraction, suggesting that it is poorly related to brain natriuretic peptide, a biomarker for heart failure and cardiac function.
Investigating the Reliability of the Measurement of the Cervical Muscle’s Echo Intensity
Authors: Naimi Sedigheh Sadat , Bokaee Fateme
Published: January 2024

Introduction: The skeletal muscle’s echo intensity (EI) is a measurement that can be used to assess the quality of the muscle and any muscle damage caused by training or activity. To determine its reliability, a limited number of studies have investigated the measurement of cervical muscles’ EI. This study determines whether the EI of the cervical muscles can be reliably quantified using the Adobe Photoshop software.
Materials and Methods: The mean EI of the cervical muscles was measured using the standard histogram function of Adobe Photoshop CS6 in 20 healthy women.
Results: The measurement of EI of cervical muscles using Adobe Photoshop CS6 is reliable in healthy women (intra-class coefficient >0.9). The values of the standard error of measurements of longus coli, sternocleidomastoid, levator scapula, semispinalis capitis, rectus capitis posterior, and oblique capitis superior muscles were 1.81, 2.09, 1.46, 2.02, 1.47 and 1.26, respectively. The values of the smallest detectable difference of longus coli, sternocleidomastoid, levator scapula, semispinalis capitis, rectus capitis posterior, and oblique capitis superior muscles were 7.11, 8.22, 5.74, 7.93, 5.79, and 4.97, respectively.
Conclusion: Assessing the EI of the cervical muscles with Adobe Photoshop software is a viable method to determine the quality of the muscles.
An Adult with Untreated Isolated Cleft Palate Since Birth: A Rare Case Report
Authors: Gupta Sonia , Jawanda Manveen Kaur
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Orofacial clefts are one of the most common congenital anomalies involving the craniofacial region. An isolated cleft palate is the rarest (33% of all orofacial clefts) among individuals with female predominance. Individuals born with these clefts manifest craniofacial, functional, and psychological anomalies. Sometimes, patients cannot receive the required therapies due to a lack of awareness and lack of medical access or economic factors. Untreated clefts may adversely impact the patient’s life both physically and psychologically.
Case Description: This study presents a case report of a 45-year-old male with an untreated cleft palate since birth due to a low socioeconomic background, leading to several oro-dental anomalies, speech defects, and psychological and social challenges.
Results: Extraoral examination revealed mild facial asymmetry, dry and incompetent lips, and underdeveloped philtrum. Intraorally, there was a cleft palate, macroglossia, soft and edematous gingiva with bleeding on probing, gingival recession, and periodontal pockets, along with various dental anomalies. Full mouth orthopantomogram showed discontinuity of the palatal line, collapsed maxillary arch, root stumps, and crowding. The final diagnosis of isolated cleft palate was made. The patient was advised for surgery regarding the cleft palate, dental treatment, speech therapy, and psychological counseling. However, the patient refused all treatments except a few dental aids due to economic difficulties.
Conclusion: The present case report highlights the need for these patients to receive particular concerns. Patients must be motivated to get proper treatment at a suitable stage to prevent future complications. Cleft teams must be advised to initiate some encouraging steps in imparting treatment aids to such patients, especially in rehabilitation therapy, considering their surrounding environment, psychological makeup, socioeconomic status, and motivation. In addition, social groups should also treat these patients with a positive approach, helping them to live healthy and normal lives just like any other individual.
Level of Oral Reading Fluency of Learners: Basis for An Intervention Plan
Authors: Binaloga Jeneve
Published: January 2024

This study aimed to determine the level of oral reading fluency of Grade 4 learners in Culban Elementary School, District 10 in the Division of Himamaylan City during the 3rd grading period of SY 2019-2020. The variables included were sex, parents’ highest educational attainment and size of the family. The study covered the following areas: Speed, Accuracy and Prosody. The result of the study showed that the oral reading fluency of learners’ according showed the following results: Speed – Frustration level, Accuracy – Independent and for Prosody, Approaching Fluency. The oral reading fluency of learners’ when grouped according to aforementioned variables showed these results: Speed – Frustration level, Accuracy – Independent and for Prosody, Approaching Fluency. There was a significant difference in the oral reading fluency of learners when grouped and compared according to sex; there was no-significant difference when grouped according to parent’s highest educational attainment and size of the family.
Photo-Induced Tautomerism of Isocytosine in Aqueous Solution when Irradiated with UVC Light
Authors: CHERNEVA Tsvetina , TODOROVA Mina , BAKALSKA Rumyana , DELCHEV Vassil
Published: January 2024

It was found that the irradiation of aqueous solution of isocytosine with UVC light provokes an oxo-hydroxy phototautomerism of the compound with a rate constant of 5.29× 10-3 min-1. It was observed a backward reaction, after removing the UV light source, with a rate constant of 0.12×10-3 min-1. Two mechanisms of the phototautomerism were investigated at the B3LYP/aug-cc-pVDZ theoretical level in water surroundings (PCM). The first one showed a consecutive dissociation and association of a proton through conical intersections S0/S1 whose structures were located at the same theoretical level in the gas phase. It occurs along the 1πσ* excited-state reaction pathway. The more probable mechanism includes an excited-state H-transfer supported by a water molecule as a catalyst. It occurs along the 1ππ* excited-state reaction pathway which we found over the IRC ground-state energy curve. The water molecule drastically reduces the energy barrier in the ground state as well in the excited state.
Sensitivity analysis of the fracturing fluid rheology effect on the hydraulic fracture geometry in the terrigenous reservoirs
Authors: Savelev Vladislav V. , Ognev Igor N.
Published: January 2024

Hydraulic fracturing is a technologically complex procedure that is influenced by many factors. Some of them cannot be changed, such as the geomechanical parameters of the target formation or the orientation of the stresses in the formation. But other parameters can be adjusted: proppant type, fluid type or injection mode. In this paper, modelling of the effect of fracture fluid rheological parameters on fracture geometry has been carried out. Two software products, RN-GRID from Rosneft and FracPRO from GTI Energy, were used to create the models, and analytical calculations were performed. Identical models were created in which rheological parameters were changed and changes in fracture geometry were analysed. The presented theoretical data and dependencies can help specialists to form an idea of the processes that take place during the hydraulic fracturing, and more consciously approach the calculations.
Justification of the boundary values of open porosity and gas permeability using data from flow studies for porous carbonate reservoirs
Authors: Sidorov Sergey V. , Rizvanova Zilya M.
Published: January 2024

This paper proposes a method for determining the boundary values of open porosity (KPO_GR) and gas permeability (KPR_GR) of porous-type carbonate reservoir rocks using the example of Tournaisian deposits of one of the oil fields of the Republic of Tatarstan. When justifying the boundary values, two databases on core studies are used: 1) on standard core studies (used mainly to calculate hydrocarbon (HC) reserves); 2) on special core studies (used for technological development projects). In the proposed method, the residual oil saturation factor is not a constant, but is taken from flow studies or calculated from core dependencies. When determining the lower limits of porosity and permeability from both databases, approximately the same boundary values were obtained: KPO_GR = 0.11 fr. un., KPR_GR = 2·10–3 μm2 and KPR_GR = 1.7·10–3 μm2, but they differ from the values, accepted by petrophysicists when calculating the reserves of considered deposit – KPO_GR = 0.09 fr. un., KPR_GR = 1·10–3 μm2. Such a difference in determining the boundary porosity can significantly affect the calculation of hydrocarbon reserves, technological calculations and field development planning.