bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Challenges of Distance Learning in Language Classes: Based on the Experience of Distance Teaching of Arabic to Non-native Speakers in Light of the Coronavirus Pandemic
Authors: Al-Assaf Dalal Moh'd
Published: May 2021

This study aims to investigate the challenges that learners and teachers of a language face during distance learning classes, especially learners and teachers of the Arabic language as a second language, based on the results of a distance learning experiment on non-native speakers of the Arabic language at the University of Jordan during the second term of 2019-2020. The study seeks to introduce the proper solutions that may mitigate these challenges to achieve the educational goals through distance learning while teaching the Arabic language as a second language. This study used the applied descriptive approach in identifying these challenges. It concluded that these challenges significantly impact the language learning process, including mastering it, the extent of benefit, and the influence on students' linguistic progress. This study recommends that these challenges are considered when adopting distance learning as a language education method at teaching language classes as a second one. These challenges need to be considered when planning for direct and indirect lessons in Arabic language educational classes, primarily via the Internet.
Needs Analysis of Chinese English Majors in EGP Courses
Authors: Xu Kexin
Published: May 2021

Based on the needs analysis model outlined by Li (2007), this study investigates the needs of Chinese English majors enrolled in EGP courses and identifies the gender differences in their needs from linguistic, cognitive, and affective perspectives. SPSS 23.0 was used in this study to analyze data obtained from 221 Chinese English majors through a revised version of Li’s (2007) questionnaire. The results showed that: 1) from the linguistic perspective, students revealed the strongest desire to practice pronunciation and speaking in class, attached the greatest importance to vocabulary and speaking, and had a conflict opinion of vocabulary. 2) from the cognitive perspective, students manifested aspirations for the teacher’s positive feedback, a harmonious English learning environment, communicative learning activities, and the opportunity to practice in class. 3) from the affective perspective, students recorded the usefulness of English as their primary learning motivation, showing a broadly positive attitude and adequate confidence when learning English. 4) males preferred using the grammar-translation method to learn English and were more likely to be motivated by their desires to understand the information in English; females favored adopting the communicative method to learn English and were more likely to be stimulated by school’s requirement and their cravings for good grades. This research endeavor is considered significant because its finding can be used to assist Chinese teachers and course designers to develop the rarely-examined EGP courses provided for Chinese English majors based on the often-overlooked students’ needs.
A Tentative Exploration on Multimodal Teaching of Legal English
Authors: Lu Yuehua
Published: May 2021

Based on the theory of multimodality and Internet technology, the present paper analyzes the existing problems in legal English teaching, explores the feasibility of constructing a multimodal teaching mode, and presents a case study of moot court by applying the multimodal means of teaching. The tentative study proves that a multimodal teaching mode can satisfy the requirements of legal English teaching, though there still exist problems to be solved.
Critical Discourse Analysis of Selected Nigerian Political Hate Speeches
Authors: Obiora Harriet Chinyere , Aboh Sopuruchi Christian , Dioka Bridget O.
Published: May 2021

The study examines the hate speeches used by the Nigerian politicians within the theoretical framework of Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA). Some of the hate speeches used by the Nigerian politicians are selected and analyzed. The objectives of this study include identifying and investigating the hate speeches using critical discourse analysis. The random sampling is used to elucidate data from Nigerian dailies. The data includes hate speeches used by Nigerian politicians against the opposing parties or individuals. The methodology for this research is the descriptive approach. The study finds out that the hate speeches are seen in this study as the use of accusations and judgments, mockery and degradation, propagation and solving problems using disdain statements and the use of rhetoric by the members of All Progressive Congress (APC) and People Democratic Party (PDP) in Nigeria to show power and dominance over one another.
Has Differentiated Instruction Gone ‘Awry’ in Online Teaching and Learning?
Authors: Idrus Faizah , Asri Nur Afini Zainal , Baharom Nurin Najihah
Published: May 2021

Differentiated Instruction (DI) is a classroom strategy that helps teachers to cater their teachings to students with different abilities and learning needs. The issue here is whether DI is still relevant in the online teaching and learning amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. Thus, the aim of this paper is to explore selected ESL teachers’ practices of differentiated instructions in their online classes. It also seeks to examine challenges these teachers withstand while implementing DI in their online classrooms. A qualitative design employing the semi-structured interviews and teachers’ reflection notes are used as data collection instruments. A total of six English language teachers from three selected schools in Malaysia took part in this investigation. Thematic analysis following Braun and Clarke (2006) is applied. The findings revealed that environmental strain, resources constraint and students’ and parents’ attitudes are the main challenges in DI while teaching in an online platform.
Reconstruction with In-Line Digital Holography Quantitative Phase Imaging for Tissue-Mimicking Phantom Samples
Authors: USTABAS KAYA Gülhan , ONUR Tuğba Özge
Published: May 2021

Optical imaging has attracted recent attention as a non-invasive medical imaging method in biomedical and clinical applications. In optical imaging, a light beam is transmitted through an under-test tissue by using an optical source. The beams which are gone through the tissue and/or reflected from the tissue surfaces are received by an array sensor. Based on the light intensity of these received beams on the sensor, sub-tissue maps are generated to scan large tissue areas so that any further biopsy is not required. Although the large tissue areas in pathological images can be scanned by using various methods, nonlinear deformations occur. To overcome this problem, the reconstruction process is frequently used.
In this study, we propose an application of biomedical imaging based on performing the reconstruction of a phantom image via an in-line digital holography technique. Hence, many different sub-tissues can be imaged at the same time without the storage problem of the reconstructed image. To neglect the biopsy process required in medical imaging, the phantom image is obtained by using a linear array transducer for this study. We present the performance evaluation of the simulation results for the proposed technique by calculating the error metrics such as mean squared error (MSE), mean absolute error (MAE), and peak signal-to-noise ratio (PSNR). The obtained results reveal that the reconstructed images are well-matched to the original images, which are desired to be displayed by the holography technique.
The Topologies of Multi-Input Single-Output Isolation-Free DC-DC Convertor for Hybrid Power Plants
Authors: ŞEKER Cihat , GUNESER Muhammet Tahir , KUZEY Şakir
Published: May 2021

Today it is an obvious fact that energy consumption tends to increase due to technological developments, population growth, and increasing living standards. In last two decades, renewable energy sources are accepted the most convenient way. However, most of these alternative systems are not considered sufficient to supply whole demand alone. But hybrid systems with some of alternative energy sources, such as solar, wind and biomass appear to be a solution to supply the energy needs in the future. In hybrid systems, the DC-DC converter structure is the main device when converting energy for the proper loads. Single / multiple input, single / multiple output DC-DC converter topologies vary in design according to the energy demand of the load. Particularly, topologies with bi-directional power flow and less circuit elements come to the fore. In this study, the simulation of multi-input single output (MISO) DC-DC converter topologies was performed in Matlab / Simulink software. Induction current and voltage, output current and voltage, as well as output power used in the determined topologies were analyzed. The mathematical equations given in the topologies were confirmed by simulation studies.
Light Pollution and Smart Outdoor Lighting
Authors: KARAGÖZ KÜÇÜK Zehra , EKREN Nazmi
Published: May 2021

With the developing technology and increasing urbanization, many problems have started to arise in the use of energy resources and in our natural environment. Energy-saving constitutes the main purpose of any proposed smart system. In addition, environmental effects should be taken into consideration. In an outdoor lighting, along with the use of energy-efficient bulbs, the lighting should be done with the right method and in the right way. In addition to these, an intelligent system integrated with an automatic control mechanism is needed. Incorrect outdoor lighting causes unnecessary energy consumption as well as light pollution and CO2 emission. These situations have negative consequences on both the mental and physical health of the human being, as well as on other living things and nature. Therefore, smart outdoor lighting systems offer an essential solution in preventing negative consequences that may occur with incorrect outdoor lighting.
In this study, outdoor lighting requirements, light pollution and smart cities have been examined in detail and the smart outdoor lighting systems within the scope of smart cities are emphasized. As a result, it has been seen how important and necessary is the smart outdoor lighting system, which provides an energy-efficient and environmentally friendly structure by enabling street lamps to work smartly and efficiently.
Genetic Research Application in the Study of Pharmaceuticals
Authors: Khokhlov A. L. , Romanov Ph. A. , Mokhov A. A. , Pozdnyakov N. O. , Miroshnikov A. E. , Yavorsky A. N.
Published: May 2021

The current science and research trends, as well as the development of personalized medicine, point to the need to use genetic tests in course of the study of pharmaceuticals. Pharmacogenetic testing has become indispensable when developing new pharmaceuticals in order to study both the peculiarities of pharmacodynamic effects or the prospects of personalized treatment, and the characteristics of metabolism or drug-drug interaction. In addition, the introduction of pharmacogenetics in bioequivalence studies allows limiting, at early stages, the criteria for inclusion or non-inclusion of volunteers based on certain gene polymorphisms determining the metabolic rate.

The study of the genetic characteristics of clinical trial participants allows a more detailed analysis of the role of gene polymorphisms in terms of both pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of the studied pharmaceuticals.

A separate important issue is genetic material collection from the clinical trial participants. On the one hand, the use of biological material collections is an essential tool for accomplishing the practical tasks in both the pharmaceutical industry and the state-of-the-art medicine. On the other hand, the legal review and ethics review of genetic material collection and use can become formidable barriers to the development of biobanking. The existing legislative differences between Russia and other countries allow identifying the most challenging regulatory aspects, and can contribute to international law harmonization in the sphere of biobanking in the future.
Bioethics and Biolaw as Bioeconomy Regulators
Authors: Mokhov A. A.
Published: May 2021

The paper deals with the ethical and legal principles (foundations) of economy that have been important and required to a various extent at different stages in history. Advances in science and technology, emergence of modern biotechnologies, including the genetic ones, as well as shifts to new technological paradigms, on the one hand, make the emerging economy drift towards bioeconomy, and, on the other hand, increase the need for legal and ethical regulators. In view of the above, bioethics and biolaw begin to play an increasingly active role at the new stage of human civilization development. In Russia, the phenomena of bioethics and biolaw are at the initial stage of their institutionalization, they become more and more appealing due to the intensification of public debates, as well as due to an increase in the number of conflicts caused by the attempts to implement and broadly apply the achievements of biology, medicine and other sciences about life in daily practice.
Historical Approaches to Euthanasia: The Unfinished Story of a Concept
Authors: Haddadi A. , Ravaz F.
Published: May 2021

Various ethics committees in Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Luxembourg, Portugal, and France have made attempts to describe the notion of euthanasia. Opinion No 063 (January 27, 2000) of the National Advisory Committee on Ethics shows that there has been no concensus on the definition of this concept. It is therefore necessary to review historical background of euthanasia from ancient times to modern period to better understand its potential applications in divergent contexts.

Studies devoted to euthanasia usually involve two modalities, namely active and passive. The active modality entails the act of deliberately killing a patient with or against their will in order to relieve persistent suffering, while the passive modality deals with the rational valid refusal of life-sustaining medical interventions necessary for the patient's life and health. The goal of this article is to present different historical approaches to euthanasia from two modalities and engage the bioethics community in a discussion on legal, social, and ethical issues of euthanasia all over the world.
Genome-Editing Technologies in Biomedical Research: The Regulatory Conditions for the Development
Authors: Chaplenko A. A. , Mokhov A. A. , Yavorsky A. N.
Published: May 2021

Significant progress has been made in the development of genetic technologies in recent decades. Currently, high-performance sequencing and, most importantly, genome editing technologies are widely used and available for laboratories in Russia. Existing technologies are not without drawbacks that significantly hinder further development, in addition, all the necessary reagents and materials, as well as equipment, are produced exclusively abroad. The review highlights the international experience of using genome editing technologies for the treatment and prevention of genetic diseases, vector-borne and viral infections, it offers recommendations for the development of this area in the Russian Federation. Attention is drawn to the legal and ethical regulation, mainly at the level of basic principles. The conclusion is formulated on the need for accelerated adaptation of basic ethical and legal principles for genome editing activities in scientific biomedical activities.
On the Issue of Discrimination Based on Genetic Status: Legal Approaches in the Judicial Practice of Foreign States
Authors: Ponomareva D. V.
Published: May 2021

This paper is devoted to the consideration of legal approaches to discrimination based on genetic status, formulated by the judicial practice of a number of foreign countries: Australia, the United States of America and Canada. The author notes that the regulatory framework for combating discriminatory practices based on genetic status has developed at the level of international law with the adoption of key documents in the relevant area. The author makes a conclusion about the ways to apply genetic information, which often acts as a “tool” for the implementation of discriminatory practices. As genetic testing becomes more widespread, the challenge will inevitably arise to determine what role genetic information should play in human and social life.
Ateroskleroz yaygınlığı ile kolon kanseri gelişimi arasında ilişki var mı?
Authors: VURAL Ahmet
Published: May 2021

Giriş ve Amaç: Kolorektal kanser ve ateroskleroz; erkek cinsiyet, Diabetes Mellitus, sigara içme ve obezite gibi yaygın risk faktörlerini paylaşmaktadır. Aterosklerozun kolorektal kanser riskini belirlemede önemini anlamak üzere kolorektal kanser ve abdominal aorta aterosklerozu arasındaki ilişkiyi araştırdık. Gereç ve Yöntem: Kolorektal kanser tanısı almış erkek hastaların tanı aldığı dönemdeki abdominal bilgisayarlı tomografi incelemeleri değerlendirilmiştir. Histopatolojik olarak kolorektal kanser tanısı konmasından 3 ay önce ve 3 ay sonraki dönem aralığında yapılmış olan abdominal bilgisayarlı tomografi incelemeleri olan 63 erkek hasta çalışmaya dahil edilmiştir. Ayrıca çeşitli nedenlerle abdominal bilgisayarlı tomografi incelemesi yapılmış 56 erkek denek kontrol grubu olarak değerlendirilmiştir. Abdominal bilgisayarlı tomografi incelemelerinde sagittal reformat görüntüler üzerinden, L2, L3 ve L4 vertebralar seviyesinde, aorta ön ve arka duvarında izlenen ateroskleroz skorlandırılmıştır. Kolorektal kanseri bulunan ve kontrol grubu deneklerin abdominal aorta ateroskleroz skorları karşılaştırılmıştır. Bulgular: Kolorektal kanseri bulunan hasta grubunun yaş ortalaması 63.95 ± 11.1, kontrol grubu deneklerin yaş ortalaması 64.79 ± 11.5 idi. Kolorektal kanseri olanlarda abdominal aorta ateroskleroz skor ortalaması (5.44 ± 3.7), kontrol grubuna (3.86 ± 2.6) göre anlamlı düzeyde daha yüksekti (p <0.05). Sonuç: Bu çalışmada, kolorektal kanseri bulunan olgularda abdominal aortada ateroskleroz şiddetinin kontrol grubuna kıyasla daha yüksek olduğu görüldü. Değişik nedenlerle yapılan abdominal bilgisayarlı tomografi incelemelerinde aorta ateroskleroz skorlamasının yapılması ile kolorektal kanser gelişim riski bakımından değerli bilgi edinilebileceğini düşünmekteyiz.
NUMERICAL INVESTIGATION OF HORIZONTAL MAGNETIC FIELD EFFECT ON THE FLOW CHARACTERISTICS OF GALLIUM FILLED IN A VERTICAL ANNULUS
Authors: AHMADPOUR Vahid , REZAZADEH Sajad , MİRZAEİ Iraj , MOSAFFA A.h.
Published: May 2021

In the present numerical study, the effect of an external horizontal magnetic field on the natural convection of an electrically conducting molten metal (gallium) inside a vertical cylindrical crucible has been investigated. The effect of the external magnetic field is evaluated on the flow pattern and also the temperature field of molten gallium in the mold with an aspect ratio of A=1.0 and a radii ratio of λ=3.0. A series of simulations are carried out for Hartmann numbers of 0, 22.5, 112, and 167 and Rayleigh numbers of 104, 105, and 106. The obtained results show that for a given Rayleigh number, increasing the Hartmann number suppresses convection flows in all directions with different intensities. Moreover, it was found that the employed horizontal magnetic field leads to vanishing the axisymmetric pattern of flow structures. This is due to the formation of Roberts and Hartmann layers near the walls parallel (0° and 180°) and normal (90° and 270°) to the magnetic field, respectively. Additionally, it is found that the presence of the magnetic field results in the reduction of convection heat transfer. This reduction is lower in the 90° and 270° directions due to the development of Roberts layers near the walls parallel to an external magnetic field. Finally, the numerical results have been validated against the published reliable data.
ENHANCEMENT THE SOLAR DISTILLER WATER BY USING PARABOLIC DISH COLLECTOR WITH SINGLE SLOPE SOLAR STILL
Authors: AL_QASAAB Mohammed R. , ABED Qahtan A. , ABD AL-WAHİD Wisam A.
Published: May 2021

Water desalination is the method of saltwater separating into two parts by using various types of energy. This paper offers an experimental work for solar distillation system to the production of drinking water by single slope solar still integrated with a parabolic dish. The result was compared with different solar still designs in the literature. The proposed solar thermal performance of the suggested solar still has been investigated to show its applicability in Iraq, Najaf (32.1No, 44.19Eo) during winter session (Nov., Dec., Jan.) 2018-2019. The assessment based on the effects of operational parameters, including solar irradiance, ambient temperature, wind speed, absorption wall temperature. A copper helical conical coil was used to compare steam condensation generated from the evaporator. The productivity of this study was 11.45 L.day-1, 8.2 L.day-1 freshwater with and without coil condenser respectively, and average direct solar irradiance was 753.6 W.m-2. Comparison different types of solar stills, especially those that have used as concentrators of solar irradiance, with comparable periods of work time, indicate excellent performance. Also, this system can be considered acceptable because it can provide distilled water from the use of materials available in local markets and low cost, enough to cover the daily needs of water for at least two adults.
A LOOP THERMOSYPHON FOR LIQUID COOLED MINICHANNELS HEAT SINK WITH PULSATE SURFACE HEAT FLUX
Authors: AL-TAE’Y Kays A. , JADDOA Ameer Abed , ABD Hussain Saad
Published: May 2021

The period operation of power electronic acts as switching element, where the power dissipated consists of pulses at certain duty cycle, the semiconductor temperature oscillates and varies as a waveform. In the present study, an experimental investigation was carried out for a loop thermosyphon order to evaluate the effect of pulsate surface heat flux on the single-phase buoyancy driven convection of ethylene glycol flow through a minichannels heat sink with hydraulic diameter 1.5 mm. An electric heater block is used to supply the heat flux to minichannels heat sink in a rectangle waveform. The study is done at different heat flux frequencies of 2.777×10-3 Hz, 8.333×10-4 Hz, 5.555×10-4 Hz and 4.166×10-4 Hz, while the heat flux amplitude (2 watt), Rayleigh number (1864) and duty cycle (50 %) are kept constant. The results revealed that for a range of the measured frequency for the complete power cycle and due to unsteady state operation conditions, the pulse heat flux pattern is close to a rectangle-wave, this generates the fluid outlet temperature pattern close to a triangle-wave. The fluid outlet temperature increases with the decreases of heat flux frequency and tends to reach to the fluid outlet temperature for a constant and continuous heat flux case. Due to closed-loop of thermosyphon, the fluid inlet temperature is changed in pattern like that the fluid outlet temperature change.
Pattern of primary caesarean deliveries in a Nigerian tertiary hospital
Authors: Ottun Abimbola T. , Okoye Chinonye H. , Adewunmi Adeniyi A. , Jinadu Faosat O. , Olumodeji Ayokunle M.
Published: May 2021

Background: Primary caesarean section (CS) has become a major driver of the steadily rising total caesarean rate. This study determined the primary CS rate, pattern and associated factors.Methods: It was a retrospective, hospital-based cross-sectional study of 645 pregnant women who had primary caesarean section over a 3-year period in Lagos state university teaching hospital, Lagos, Nigeria. Data obtained were expressed in frequency and percentages.Results: Primary CS accounted for more than 50% of all the CS done during the study period with a primary CS rate of 16.7% and total CS rate was 30.6%. Primary CS was commonest among women of age group 30-39years (50.1%) and women with no prior parous experience (58.6%). The commonest indication for primary CS was poor progress in labour due to cephalopelvic disproportion, which occurred in 170 women (26.4%), followed by suspected foetal distress in 94 women (14.6%) and hypertensive disease in pregnancy in 91 women (14.1%). Post-operative wound infection and/or dehiscence was the most prevalent post-operative complication occurring in 12.1% of women who had primary CS.Conclusions: Primary CS rate is increasing and relatively more common among primiparous women. Cephalopelvic disproportion, suspected foetal distress and hypertensive disorders of pregnancy are the leading indications for primary CS.
The key application of serum tumor markers in testicular cancer: a review and update
Authors: Banerjee Kishore G. , A. Shamsul Azlan Muhammad Haziq , Kalaiarasu Logeswaran , Hasrol Nizam Haifa S.
Published: May 2021

Testicular neoplasm is the most common solid tumor in male. The recent advancement in the medical field has made it possible to become one of the most highly treatable neoplasms. Testicular neoplasm is mainly classified into two main groups: non-seminomatous germ cell tumor and seminomatous germ cell tumor. In this review article, we analyzed the current role of serum biomarkers in diagnosis, prognosis, staging, measurement of response to therapy and early detection of relapse of testicular neoplasm. The commonly used tumor markers are alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), beta-human chorionic gonadotrophins and lactate dehydrogenase. Apart from them, a new set of tumor biomarkers like placental­like alkaline phosphatase, gamma­glutamyltranspeptidase, miRNA, mitochondrial DNA and serum trace elements are also proven to be potentially helpful in the management of testicular neoplasm. Progressive elevation of serum tumor markers often indicates the presence of testicular cancer and aids in histological classifications. According to an additional category, the rate of elevation of respective biomarkers is advantageous to appropriately stage testicular neoplasm (S) in the tumor nodes metastases (TNM) staging classification. Besides, it is found that higher elevation of serum tumor markers is associated with a poorer prognosis. Post-treatment assessment where there is a rate of reduction of serum tumour biomarkers suggests the effectiveness of initial management of testicular neoplasm.
Clinico-radiological and functional outcomes of bicolumnar plating in schatzker type 5 and type 6 fractures of proximal tibia in tertiary care hospital in North India: a series of 26 patients
Authors: Singh Pankaj Vir , Singh Gagandeep , Singh Manmeet , Ghani Abdul , Singh Amarjeet , Lone Zubair A.
Published: May 2021

Background: Ideal mode of treatment is always debatable for Schatzker type 5 and type 6 fractures in proximal tibia. The aim of the study was management in tibial plateau fracture are to obtain anatomic reduction of the articular surface, restoration of axial alignment, and achieve stable fixation which can be done by open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) using bicolumnar plating.

Methods: 26 patients with Schatzker type 5 and type 6 fractures were managed by bicolumnar plating. They were followed up to six months in terms of radiological union, functional outcomes and complications. Functional outcome at the end of follow up was assessed using knee society scoring system.

Results: Good to excellent results were obtained in almost all the patients using knee society scoring system, mean knee ROM achieved was 114.5 degree. Average time to achieve radiological union was 14.4 weeks. These results were in comparison with the studies done earlier.

Conclusions: Bicolumnar plating is an effective method of treatment of Schatzker type 5 and type 6 fractures and provide excellent result in expert hands. Rehabilitation using early CPM (continuous passive movement) is very effective in reducing the post-operative complications like knee stiffness.

 
A review of the challenges facing people with hearing loss during the COVID-19 outbreak: toward the understanding the helpful solutions
Authors: Tavanai Elham , Rouhbakhsh Nematollah , Roghani Zohreh
Published: May 2021

Background and Aim: COVID-19 is a pandemic infectious disease caused by a novel coronavirus has made dramatic changes in people's individual, family, and social lifestyle. Most countries have implemented some regulations including wearing face masks, face shields, and gloves and physical, and social distance in public places to reduce the spread of the virus. However, these global recommendations may be associated with significant social, communication, and behavioral challenges for hearing-impaired people. This review explains the problems that hearingimpaired people may experience in the COVID19 outbreak and also some helpful solutions that can be implemented by audiologists, healthcare professionals, and other members of the society that somehow interact with these people in such conditions that communication barriers increase.
Recent Findings: Recent findings indicate that wearing face masks, physical, and social distancing, e-learning and virtual communications during COVID-19 pandemic have provided some problems for people with hearing loss. This can, in turn, have negative consequences including increased feelings of loneliness, isolation and also some limitations in access to educational materials and rehabilitation training of lockdowns of schools and rehabilitation centers or some challenges of online learning at home.
Conclusion: People with hearing loss may experience problems during COVID-19 pandemic. There are some strategies that can be implemented to partially solve some communicative and social problems in this group. The use of transparent face masks, compensatory strategies, as well as optimization of virtual, and telehealth, telerehabilitation and tele-education services can be helpful for hearing-impaired people during this pandemic era.
 
Keywords: COVID-19; face mask; social distancing; hearing-impaired people; communication; compensatory strategies
Promoting healthy hearing over the lifespan
Authors: Hall III James W.
Published: May 2021

Background and Aim: Comorbid conditions and unhealthy lifestyles are risk factors for auditory dysfunction, including age-related hearing loss. With a focus on adults, this paper describes a new approach to hearing health care that aims to prevent or mitigate hearing loss and related disorders, like tinnitus. Accurate diagnosis and effective management of hearing loss is best achieved with a patient-specific test battery that includes sensitive measures of peripheral and central auditory function.
Background and Aim: Comorbid conditions and unhealthy lifestyles are risk factors for auditory dysfunction, including age-related hearing loss. With a focus on adults, this paper describes a new approach to hearing health care that aims to prevent or mitigate hearing loss and related disorders, like tinnitus. Accurate diagnosis and effective management of hearing loss is best achieved with a patient-specific test battery that includes sensitive measures of peripheral and central auditory function.
Conclusion: The traditional model for hearing health care service delivery relies on a rather outdated and simplistic protocol for evaluating and describing hearing loss, and a technologyfocused approach for management. This paper offers an evidence-based rationale for expanding the test battery for diagnosing hearing loss, and a multidisciplinary intervention approach.
 
Keywords: Comorbid conditions; smoking; diet; value-added tests
The effects of noise exposure and work-related fatigue on the acceptable noise level test in normal-hearing people
Authors: Heidari Nafiseh , Geshani Ahmad , Rouhbakhsh Nematollah , Faghihzadeh Elham , Alishahi Mohammad
Published: May 2021

Background and Aim: The acceptable noise level (ANL) assesses the noise that a person can tolerate during a running speech. Although it is a strong test, it has not yet become popular in clinical practice. One of the reasons is its contradictory results. Since it is a psychoacoustic test, psychological factors can affect its output. Investigation of these factors can provide more accurate results. This study aims to investigate the effects of noise and work-related fatigue on the ANL in normal-hearing people. Methods: Participants were the male workers in the administration (n = 26) and production (n = 26) departments of an automotive manufacturing industry in Iran. They were evaluated before and after leaving the workplace in order to determine the effects of noise exposure, fatigue as well as their simultaneous effects on the ANL.
Results: In both groups, the ANL showed a significant increase after work compared to its level before work, and the background noise level (BNL) was significantly decreased. There was no significant difference in the BNL between administration and production groups before work. The most comfortable level (MCL) showed no significant increase. Moreover, the MCL changes were not significantly different in the production group compared to administration group, but the BNL and ANL changes were significantly higher.
Conclusion: Noise exposure and work-related fatigue affect the ANL. During the ANL test, earlier exposure to noise and the amount of fatigue should be controlled.
 
Keywords: Exposure to noise; fatigue; acceptable noise level
Estimation of outer hair cells function in chronic bilateral tinnitus patients with normal hearing using distortion product otoacoustic emissions
Authors: Karimiani Aras , Rouhbakhsh Nematollah , Zamiri Abdollahi Farzaneh , Jalaie Shohreh
Published: May 2021

Background and Aim: It is not clear if the measurement of distortion product otoacoustic emissions (DPOAE) at frequencies above 8 kHz adds any value in determining the differences in the cochlear function between patients with and without tinnitus. This study aimed to compare DPOAE in the frequency range of 0.5−10 kHz in patients with normal hearing with and without tinnitus.
Methods: This comparative cross-sectional study was conducted on 20 individuals with tinnitus and normal hearing as a study group (SG) and a control group (CG) of 20 normal-hearing individuals without tinnitus. The DPOAE was measured with F1/F2 = 1.22 and intensities of F1 = 65 dB SPL and F2 =55 dB SPL in the frequency range of 0.5−10 kHz, moreover in the frequency of tinnitus in SG and corresponding frequency in CG.
Results: DPOAE level at 10 kHz did not differ significantly between SG and CG (p = 0.491). However, the mean of overall DPOAE level, DPOAE level at the frequency of tinnitus, and F2 values of 2.5, 5, and 6.298 kHz were significantly lower in SG than CG (p < 0.05).
Conclusion: Measurement of DPOAE at 10 kHz did not seem to add any value in determining the differences in the cochlear function between patients with and without tinnitus. However, decreased DPOAE levels at 2.5, 5, and 6.298 kHz which were observed among patients who have tinnitus and normal hearing, indicates some outer hair cells damage that was not detectable by conventional audiometry.
Keywords: Tinnitus; normal hearing; outer hair cell; distortion product otoacoustic emission
Evaluating the effectiveness of dichotic training in the elderly adults: a single subject study
Authors: Shahidipour Zahra , Farahani Saeid , Mohammadkhani Ghassem , Tavanai Elham , Rahbar Nariman , Jalaie Shohreh
Published: May 2021

Background and Aim: Elderly people usually show poor performance in dichotic listening tasks. In this condition, the left ear being often the weaker one shows a performance below the normal limits. Studies have shown the effectiveness of dichotic listening training in auditory and language processing for adults and children with neurological disorders. This study aimed to develop a home-version of dichotic training and investigate its effectiveness in elderly adults.
Methods: Participants in this single-subject interventional study (AB design) were four elderly subjects (two males and two females) aged 65−75 years. The main inclusion criteria were dichotic listening deficit demonstrated by the dichotic digit test (DDT), no neurological or cognitive disorders, and normal hearing threshold. Dichotic listening training was performed with an informal home-version of dichotic interaural intensity difference (DIID) training program for seven weeks. DDT was performed seven consecutive weeks before (phase A) and after the intervention (phase B) at the end of each week.
Results: Data were analyzed by single-subject study statistics. Findings demonstrated an improvement in DDT scores for the left ear and decrease in right ear advantage scores in all the elderly adults after DIID training program. It seems that this training program could remediate poor performance in dichotic listening tasks in elderly people.
Conclusion: The advantage of this method is that it can be easily done at home and is costeffective. However, further studies are needed to approve the neuroplasticity and structural changes in the brain after the DIID training program in this population.
Keywords: Auditory rehabilitation; dichotic training; dichotic listening; elderly; singlesubject study
The comparison of gains prescribed for digital behind-the-ear hearing aids using the manufacturer-specific and conventional prescriptive formulas
Authors: Shyekhaghaei Shahin , Sameni Seyyed Jalal , Rahbar Nariman
Published: May 2021

Background and Aim: There are several prescriptive formulas for covering a variety of hearing loss, each of which applies relatively different amplifications at different frequencies. This study aims to compare the gains prescribed for digital behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids by the Desired Sensation Level Multi-Stage [Input/Output] (DSLm[I/O]), National Acoustic Laboratories-non linear2 (NAL-NL2) and manufacturer-specific formulas at different levels of input intensity.
Methods: The gain values in 12-channel BTE hearing aids prepared from four companies (Oticon, Phonak, ReSound and Siemens) were measured at three levels of input intensity (45, 65, and 85 dB SPL) and at a frequency range of 250−8000 Hz for two moderately severe flat and mild sloping to severe hearing losses by using the DSLm[I/O], NAL-NL2 and manufacturerspecific formulas in the Frye FP35 test box.
Results: There was no significant difference between the four selected hearing aids in terms of prescribed gain values using the prescriptive formulas (p > 0.05).
Conclusion: The DSLm[I/O] formula prescribes higher gain in the 12-channel BTE hearing aids from Oticon, Phonak and Siemens companies at all input intensities and frequencies for moderately severe flat and mild sloping to severe hearing losses compared to the NAL-NL2 formula and manufacturer-specific formulas (Voice Aligned Compression (VAC), Adaptive Phonak, Connexx Fit and audiogram+).
Keywords: National acoustic laboratories-non linear2; desired sensation level multi-stage [input/output]; gain; frequency; intensity levels
Development of expressive language and social skills in children with normal hearing and hearing impairment
Authors: Sadat Tabatabaei Maryam , Soleymani Zahra , Aghajanzadeh Mahshid
Published: May 2021

Background and Aim: Expressive language is the most basic and widespread means of communication; children with hearing impairments are one of the largest groups of children with speech and language disorders. Therefore, this study compares the relationship between the development of expressive language and social skills in children with cochlear implants (CIs), hearing aid (HA) users and normal Persian-speaking peers aged five to seven years old.
Methods: The present study is a cross-sectional comparative study. 45 children in three groups; normal hearing, CIs and HA users were selected by convenience sampling. The child’s communication and social skills were assessed using Matson and children’s communication checklist (CCC) tests. Through the analysis of a descriptive speech sample of language indicators, the mean length of utterance- morpheme (MLU-m), number of different words (NDW) and the percentage of intelligible utterances (PIU) of the child were obtained and examined. ANOVA test was used to compare the groups and Pearson test was used to examine the correlation between variables.
Results: The mean score of CCC test, PIU and NDW are significantly different in the three groups. MLU and Matson subtests are not significantly different in three groups. Correlation between variables was different in each group. Conclusion: Communication skills, intelligibiResults: The mean score of CCC test, PIU and NDW are significantly different in the three groups. MLU and Matson subtests are not significantly different in three groups. Correlation between variables was different in each group. Conclusion: Communication skills, intelligibiResults: The mean score of CCC test, PIU and NDW are significantly different in the three groups. MLU and Matson subtests are not significantly different in three groups. Correlation between variables was different in each group. 
Conclusion: Communication skills, intelligibility, and lexical diversity are significantly different between normal and hearing- impaired children. MLU and Matson subtests are not significantly different in three groups. The correlation patterns among different subtests of CCC and Matson for children with hearing impairment were different form normal hearing children.
Keywords: Hearing impairment; communication skills; mean length of utterance; percentage of intelligible utterances; number of different words; social skills
Auditory and speech development in a 3-year-old boy with auditory neuropathy spectrum disorder
Authors: Mazaheryazdi Malihah , Akbari Mehdi , Abolhasan Choobdar Farhad
Published: May 2021

Background: Auditory neuropathy spectrum disorder (ANSD) in the auditory neural pathway can affect the auditory and speech development of children. Since the symptoms and complications of this disorder are similar in different children, hearing management and rehabilitation can help with better development of speech/ language and hearing perception in children with ANSD.
The Case: In this study, the case was a one-yearold boy with ANSD and mild to moderate highfrequency sensorineural hearing loss. He first underwent various audiological examinations. Then, an aural rehabilitation program containing different auditory information and games was provided to him, his family, and caregiver at their home and in the rehabilitation center.
Conclusion: Although auditory neuropathy/ dissynchrony in the auditory neural pathway has negative effect on the auditory and speech development, but the children with ANSD can use different inputs for language comprehension and acquisition if they receive effective education, especially auditory training at an earlier age.
Keywords: Auditory neuropathy spectrum disorder; speech perception; auditory training
Improve communication with deaf and hard of hearing clients during Covid-19
Authors: Mardanian Dehkordi Leila , Ghiyasvandian Shahrzad
Published: May 2021

The article's abstract is not available.
Antifungal Efficacy of a Permanent Silicon Soft Liner Containing Silver Nanoparticles
Authors: Habibzadeh Sareh , Eskandarion Solmauz , Marashi Seyed Mahmoud Amin , Yunesi Ghazal , Kharazifard Mohamadjavad
Published: May 2021

Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the in vitro antifungal efficacy of addition of silver nanoparticles (SNPs) to Mucopren® silicone soft liner material.
Materials and Methods: Twenty disc samples (8 × 2 mm) of Mucopren® silicone soft liner containing 0wt% (control), 0.5wt%, 1wt%, 2wt%, and 3wt% SNPs were fabricated. Samples were powdered and added to 150 mL of Sabouraud dextrose agar culture medium and placed on separate culture dish plates. Each plate was inoculated with 106 colony forming units per milliliter (CFUs/mL) of Candida albicans (PTCC 5027) according to the CLSI protocol, and incubated at 37℃. The colony count was verified at 24 h, and the antifungal effect of the samples was evaluated according to the percentage of viable cells in the 2 subgroups with/without thermocycling. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 20 via ANOVA and t-test (P<0.05).
Results: All experimental groups showed higher antifungal activity than the control group, and this effect was dose-dependent (P<0.05). The lowest colony count was recorded in the 3wt% group. Thermocycling had no significant effect on the antifungal efficacy, except in 0.5wt% concentration of SNPs (P=0.013).
Conclusion: Addition of SNPs to Mucopren soft liner conferred antifungal effects. Further mechanical stability and toxicity studies are still required.
Thermal Stability and Monomer Elution of Bulk Fill Composite Resins Cured from Different Irradiation Distances
Authors: Jafari Navimipour Elmira , Pournaghi Azar Fatemeh , Keshipour Sajjad , Nadervand Saba
Published: May 2021

Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the thermal stability and monomer elution of bulk fill composite resins cured at different irradiation distances.
Materials and Methods: Forty cylindrical-shaped (3×4mm) specimens were fabricated from two composite resins (X-tra fil, X-tra base) and cured from 0 and 7mm distances. In 9 specimens, the degree of conversion was determined by the release of monomers. For this purpose, after curing of composites, they were immersed in 5 mL of 99.9% methanol and stored at 37°C for 24h. The eluted monomer was then analyzed by gas chromatography (GC). Also, thermal stability of one sample from each group was assessed by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) at a rate of 10°C/min. Data were analyzed using two-way ANOVA and Tukey’s post-hoc test (P<0.05).
Results: X-tra fil had significantly higher degree of conversion than X-tra base (P=0.001). Specimens cured at 7mm distance had significantly lower degree of conversion compared with those cured at 0 mm distance (P=0.001). The interaction effect of composite type and distance of light curing unit from the surface of samples was statistically significant (P=0.001). Regarding the TGA results, the lowest and the highest percentages of weight loss were detected in X-tra fil cured at 0 mm distance and X-tra base cured at 7mm distance, respectively.
Conclusion: X-tra fil composite cured at 0mm distance had the highest degree of conversion and thermal stability, and X-tra base composite cured at 7mm distance had the lowest values.
Can Low Magnesium be A Rısk Factor for the Development of Polyneuropathy in Patıents With Diabetes?
Authors: MÜHÜRDAROĞLU Mehmet , AĞADAYI Ezgi , KÖSEM Arzu
Published: May 2021

Objective: Changes in magnesium metabolism have a different effect on the metabolic and signaling pathways in the development and progression of diabetes. This study aimed to determine the relationship between the serum magnesium level and polyneuropathy in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM).

Method: The study included type 2 DM patients who presented to the neurology outpatient clinic of Ankara City Hospital with the complaint of pain and burning sensation in the hands and feet and received a pre-diagnosis of polyneuropathy based on electroneuromyography (ENMG). Biochemistry and hormone parameters of patients were scanned retrospectively.

Result: A total of 116 patients, 49 (42.2%) female and 67 (57.8%) male, were included in the study. When the patients were divided into three groups according to the tertiles of HbA1C, the frequency of polyneuropathy was significantly higher in the group with high HbA1C levels (P=0.004). A significant relationship was observed between the magnesium level and detection of polyneuropathy on ENMG The mean magnesium level was significantly lower in the polyneuropathy group(P=0.013). Patients with additional complications other than polyneuropathy had significantly lower magnesium levels than those without such complications (P=0.021).

Conclusion: This study showed that the magnesium levels were significantly associated with the development of polyneuropathy in patients with type 2 DM. It was concluded that an adequate magnesium level in patients with glycemic control can prevent the development of diabetic polyneuropathy.