Turkish anatomists' preferences to continue teaching after death and how it is impacted by their religious beliefs.

The attitudes of anatomists toward donating their own bodies are a question of matter in the literature of medicine. The aim of the study was to evaluate the attitudes of Turkish anatomists regarding the donation of their own bodies as teaching material after death. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among anatomists in Türkiye during the months of March and April 2023. An online survey was carried out by means of a questionnaire constructed using Google Forms©. The survey consisted of a demographic data part, Likert-type multiple choice questions, open-ended questions, and yes-no questions. The questionnaire was answered by 133 anatomists from the anatomy departments in Türkiye. The mean age was 38.9 ± 7.30 years. 48% of the anatomists who answered were male and 52% were female. Most of the participants have a religious belief (90%). All of the participants with religious beliefs were members of the Islamic religion. Approximately 5% of the participants stated that they donated their bodies as cadavers. Anatomists suggested increasing body donation by 76.7% as a solution to cadaveric insufficiency. Although most anatomists state that there is a need for body donation, the rate of donating their own bodies seems quite low. We think that anatomists accept the importance of body donation, but they do not think of themselves as donors. They only recommend body donation to other people. We think that programs and activities should be planned especially for those who are uncertain about body donation and those who only donate organs but do not donate bodies.

Are Craniofacial Asymmetries Related to Trunk Asymmetries?

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to investigate whether craniofacial asymmetries could be a predictor of spine asymmetries or not. METHODS: Female individuals aged between 18 and 25 years participated in this cross-sectional descriptive-analytic study. The angle of trunk rotation was measured by a scoliometer in conjunction with the Adams forward-bending test. Individuals in the control group (n = 57) had spinal curvature of 0 to 3 degrees, and individuals in the study group (n = 53) had spinal curvature of between 4 and 6 degrees. Facial anthropometric measurements of individuals were evaluated by referencing anatomical landmarks determined on the face with 2-dimensional photogrammetry using ImageJ (Version 1.53q) program. RESULTS: Both groups were similar in terms of facial measurements (P > 0.05). Axial trunk rotation values of the mid-thoracic and thoraco-lumbar regions were significantly higher on both sides of the asymmetry group (P < 0.05). The distances between facial landmarks are not associated with asymmetries of spine regions (P > 0.05). CONCLUSION: Although the sensitivity and predictive value of facial asymmetries in determining trunk asymmetries and sagittal spinal posture were low, it was concluded that comparative studies are needed, especially in individuals with asymmetry at the level of scoliosis, as the asymmetries of the individuals in our study were not at the level of scoliosis.

An investigation of the effects of dual-task balance exercises on balance, functional status and dual-task performance in children with Down syndrome.

PURPOSE: To investigate the effects of dual task (DT) balance exercises on functional status, balance, and DT performance in children with Down Syndrome (DS). METHODS: Participants were divided into two groups: intervention group (IG; n = 13) and control group (CG;n = 14). WeeFIM was used to measure the functional independence level and balance was evaluated using the Pediatric Balance Scale. DT performance was assessed using Timed Up and Go, Single Leg Stance, Tandem-Stance and 30 s Sit to Stand tests without concomitant task, with motor task or cognitive task. The IG received 16 sessions of DT training twice a week for 8 weeks. RESULTS: Functional level, balance, and DT performance improved significantly in the IG, whereas only balance improved in the CG. Significantly better results were achieved in the IG, as demonstrated by greater pre/post-treatment changes. CONCLUSION: DT balance exercises improved functional level, balance and DT performance of children with DS.

Is mirror therapy combined with a routine physiotherapy protocol effective for children with obstetrical upper brachial plexus palsy?

STUDY DESIGN: Randomized controlled study. INTRODUCTION: Mirror therapy is a rehabilitation strategy based on the repeated use of the mirror illusion and also one of the treatment choice of brachial plexus injuries. PURPOSE: We aimed to determine the effects of mirror therapy combined with a routine rehabilitation program on upper limb motor function in children with obstetric brachial plexus injury. METHODS: Twenty children with obstetric brachial palsy were included in this study. They were randomly allocated to either control (n = 10) or mirror therapy (n = 10) group. The following clinical tools were used to assess the upper extremity function: Active Movement Scale (AMS), Modified Mallet Scale (MMS), Hand Grip Strength (HGS) Test, Finger Grip Strength (FGSM) Test, Box and Block Test (BBT), Nine Hole Peg Test (9-HPT), and goniometric measurement. Both groups received the same routine physiotherapy program for 8 weeks. The study group underwent mirror therapy in addition to the rehabilitation program. RESULTS: The mean age of the study population was 11.35 ± 4.12 years. There was no change in the goniometric values, AMS and MMS scores after the treatment in both groups (p > 0.05), except for the improvement of the wrist extension in the study group (p < 0.05). There was an increase in both HGS and FGS scores in the study group. Only FGS scores improved in the control group after the intervention (p < 0.05). 9-HPT and BBT scores improved in both groups (p < 0.05). All other parameters tested were comparable between the two groups after the treatment. CONCLUSIONS: The results of this study did not show any additional benefits of mirror therapy combined with a rehabilitation protocol compared to routine physiotherapy treatment, but was not adequately powered to do so.

Comparison of Physical Activity, Dual-Task Performance, and Cognitive Skills Between Problematic Video Game Players and Control Subjects.

INTRODUCTION:  This study aimed to compare the dual-task and cognitive skills of problematic video gamers and non-problematic video gamers based on the fact that cognitive skills (e.g., inhibition, decision-making, attentional control, time perception) and dual-task performance may be positively affected in individuals who play games. METHODS: The study was conducted on 62 individuals. The study group (n=33) consisted of individuals who played games, and the control group (n=28) consisted of non-gamers. Their scores on exercise benefits and barriers perception, cognitive performance, cognitive skills, and dual-task performances were measured. The Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) scale was used to evaluate cognitive function, and the Trail Making Test (TMT) was used to determine attention, speed, and better motor performance. The Stroop test was used to evaluate executive functioning. RESULTS: It was determined that the problematic game players group was faster at the Stroop 1 and Stroop 2 test times (respectively p=0.020, p=0.005). In the comparison of dual task-cognitive 10-meter walking) test times of both groups, it was seen that individuals in the problematic game players group were faster than the control subjects (p=0.044). CONCLUSION: It can be said that playing digital games improves the cognitive dual-task cost (DTC) and the executive functioning of individuals.

The effects of complex decongestive therapy on pain and functionality in individuals with breast cancer who developed adhesive capsulitis due to lymphedema: an evaluation by an isokinetic computerized system.

Background: This study aimed to determine the impact of complex decongestive therapy applications on upper extremity function in breast cancer patients who developed adhesive capsulitis after lymphedema. Methods: Thirty patients who developed adhesive capsulitis due to lymphedema were divided into two groups as study (n = 15) and control (n = 15) groups. Both groups received 20 minutes of exercise five days a week for three weeks using a Biodex isokinetic dynamometer, as well as a hot pack and TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) treatment to the shoulder joint. The study group received 45 minutes of intensive decongestive therapy along with the adhesive capsulitis treatment. The visual analogue scale was used to assess pain, circumference, and volumetric measurements were used to assess edema, and the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand Problems Questionnaire (DASH: Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand) was used to assess upper extremity functionality. The shoulder range of motion was evaluated. Results: Both groups had improvements in pain (P < 0.001), shoulder joint range of motion (P < 0.001), and upper extremity functionality (P < 0.001) after the treatment. There was a significant decrease in circumference and volumetric measurements in the study group (P < 0.001). However, no differences were seen in measurements in the control group. Conclusions: The results showed that complex decongestive therapy was beneficial in reducing lymphedema in breast cancer patients who acquired adhesive capsulitis due to lymphedema. Consequently, the authors believe that supplementing conventional physiotherapy with complex decongestive therapy will benefit patients.

The comparison of tone and viscoelastic properties of superior orbicularis oris muscle in multiple sclerosis patients to healthy individuals.

BACKGROUND: The orbicularis oris muscle is an important muscle for oral perception in mouth and swallowing rehabilitation. The muscle can be affected in patients with multiple sclerosis for many reasons. It is important to understand the quantitative changes in this muscle to determine the many problems associated with the cranio-facial region in multiple sclerosis. Therefore, this study aimed to compare the mechanical properties of the orbicularis oris muscle between MS patients and healthy individuals. METHODS: A total of 55 individuals (28 with multiple sclerosis and 27 healthy) who met the inclusion criteria were evaluated. The tone and viscoelastic properties (elasticity and stiffness) of the superior orbicularis oris muscle of both groups were evaluated bilaterally in the supine position with the MyotonPro® (Myoton AS, Estonia) device. The reference point of the muscle is accepted as the right and left paramedial philtrum dimple. RESULTS: It was observed that there was no difference in terms of stiffness values of the right and left orbicularis oris muscles of both groups (p>0.05). The tone and the elasticity of the muscle on both sides were higher in the HI group than MS group (p<0.05). CONCLUSION: We think that the orbicularis oris muscle has a central location in the facial region, and that this muscle may be the key muscle for the symptoms arising from many neurological mechanisms. The decrease in muscle tone and elasticity may be the beginning of the changes in MS patients. We believe that the data from this muscle will be useful for comparative studies.

Physiotherapy Management of Migraine Pain: Facial Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation Technique Versus Connective Tissue Massage.

OBJECTIVE: Physical therapy modalities are often used by patients with migraine pain. The effectiveness of the methods in the treatment of migraine has not been clarified yet. This prospective study was planned to investigate whether facial proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation is superior to connective tissue massage in the treatment of migraine pain. METHODS: The study was conducted on 40 female patients with a neurologist-confirmed diagnosis of chronic migraine with non-aura, and who were aged between 18 and 65. They were randomly divided into 2 groups. Facial proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation techniques were applied to the patients in the study group (Group 1), and connective tissue massage was applied to the patients in the control group (Group 2). The interventions were performed 3 times a week for approximately 20 minutes. Pain and pressure pain threshold scores were recorded on the first day of treatment before starting the session and were reassessed immediately after the end of the 18 treatment (6 weeks) sessions. RESULTS: Pretreatment and posttreatment results were similar in both groups in terms of pain scores and pressure pain threshold values ( P > 0.05). Both groups improved in pain-related outcomes ( P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Our results suggest that facial proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation was no more effective than connective tissue massage for treating migraine for the sample size used in the present study. Both methods can be used in the treatment of migraine pain.

Age Related Changes of Superior Orbicularis Oris Muscle in Terms of Tone and Viscoelastic Properties.

OBJECTIVE: To examine the age-related changes in the viscoelastic properties and tone of the superior orbicularis oris muscle by a portablehand-held myotonometer. METHODS: A total of 128 individuals (65 female, 63 male) who met the inclusion criteria were evaluated. Individuals were divided into 2 groups as under 40 years old (Group 1), and above (Group 2). The viscoelastic properties and muscle tone of orbicularis oris muscle were evaluated bilaterally in supine position with the Myoton PRO (Myoton AS, Estonia) device from the skin overlying the orbicularis oris. The reference point is accepted as the right and left paramedial philtrum dimple. The statistical analysis was performed. RESULTS: There was no statistically significant difference in the elasticity values of the right and left orbicularis oris muscles of the Group 1 and Group 2 individuals. There was a difference between the groups when the tone and stiffness values of both groups were compared. It was determined that individuals over the age of 40 had higher muscle tone and stiffness. All mechanical properties of the superior orbicularis oris muscle between the male and female individuals in Group 1 were different. The values are higher in the female gender. The elasticity values in both genders in Group 2 were similar. Tone and stiffness parameters were different between genders. CONCLUSIONS: Myoton PRO can be recommended as an alternative device in the quantitative evaluations of post-operative follow-ups, and pre/post rehabilitation in terms of viscoelastic parameters of the muscle.

Importance of Anatomy Education on Electrotherapy Lectures in Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Curricula: Student Perceptions of a Foundation University.

Student opinions are important to improve the physiotherapy and rehabilitation curriculum, and to maintain the quality of education. This study aimed to evaluate the students' perception levels related to anatomy education in terms of electrotherapy lectures. Third and fourth-year physiotherapy students (61 female, 43 male) have voluntarily participated in this study. The data were obtained by a survey, which consists of 29 closed-ended (15 Likert-type questions) questions. The average age was 21.82 ± 1.62 years. The grade point average of the participants, which is based on the 4-point scale, is 2.33 ± 0.44 points. There was no difference between the genders in terms of the grade point averages (p = 0.78). Students stated that the anatomy knowledge of the musculoskeletal system is extremely important in terms of electrotherapy lectures. This is followed by the nervous system and the circulatory system, respectively. They also stated that they need more anatomy knowledge during motor point stimulation applications (50%), and less anatomy knowledge during ultrasound applications (15.38%). In the results of Likert-type survey, first and second highest scores were pertained to "I need anatomy knowledge when inserting electrodes" and "The knowledge which is obtained from anatomy lectures affect to the motor nerve stimulations" (1.42 ± 0.67 and 1.40 ± 0.66, respectively, p < 0.05) and the least score was pertained to "I need to look at my anatomy notes before the electrotherapy exams" (0.41 ± 0.88, p < 0.05). The results from this study help to enhance our conceptual understanding of students' perception levels of anatomy education importance in terms of electrotherapy lectures.

Evaluation of the tone and viscoelastic properties of the masseter muscle in the supine position, and its relation to age and gender.

BACKGROUND: The masseter muscle can be evaluated in various ways to examine its condition in healthy individuals or to identify pathological changes in the muscle. OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to examine the tone and viscoelastic parameters of the masseter muscle, which is the focal muscle of various pathologies, to reveal its relationship with age and gender, and to determine the reference values of this muscle in healthy individuals. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Individuals aged 18-50 years were evaluated. They were divided into 3 groups in terms of age. A total of 389 individuals participated in the study (18-28 years: 131 males, 104 females; 29-39 years: 29 males, 56 females; and 40-50 years: 30 males, 39 females). The tone and viscoelastic properties of the masseter muscle were evaluated bilaterally in the supine position. RESULTS: The mean age of all individuals was 28.64 ±9.68 years. The masseter muscle tone was found to be higher in men than in women. The elasticity of the muscle was higher in women (p < 0.05). It was determined that the masseter muscle tone and stiffness increased, whilst its elasticity decreased with aging (p < 0.05). A weak positive correlation was found between the right and left masseter muscle tone and age (r = 0.307 and r = 0.325, respectively; p = 0.001). There was a moderate positive correlation between the right and left masseter muscle stiffness and age (r = 0.507 and r = 0.511, respectively; p = 0.001). A strong positive correlation was observed between the right and left masseter muscle elasticity and age (r = 0.614 and r = 0.645, respectively; p = 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: The data obtained in this study may assist clinicians in evaluating the treatment of the pathological conditions related to the masseter muscle as well as in the planning of treatment and preand post-operation evaluations. Cite as.

The importance of volume and area fractions of cerebellar volume and vermian subregion areas: a stereological study on MR images.

PURPOSE: Age, gender, and body size are important factors which are affecting the cerebellar volume (CV). Many neurological diseases lead changes in CV. The aim of this study is to measure CV and the total intracranial volume (TIV) for both genders on magnetic resonance images (MRI), to calculate the CV/TIV volume fraction, and also to determine the normal values that can be regarded clinically significant by determining the total vermis area and vermian subregion areas (V1, V2, and V3). METHODS: In this retrospective study, MR images (without any pathological findings) of 200 individuals (100 female, 100 male) between the ages of 20-40 were used. CV and CV/TIV volume fractions, vermian subregion areas, and area fractions were calculated by using the Stereoinvestigator 8.0 (Microbrightfield, USA) software. The volumetric calculations were performed by the point counting method according to the Cavalieri principle, which is one of the volume calculation methods in stereology. Total CV, TIV, cerebellar vermis areas (V1, V2, and V3), and total cerebellum area were measured separately for both groups. RESULTS: The volume of cerebellum was 120.53 ± 11.1 cm3 in males, 105.99 ± 11.2 cm3 in females, TIV was 1304.99 ± 91.7 cm3 in males and 1155.15 ± 85.7 cm3 in females. CV and TIV were statistically higher in males (p = 0.001, p = 0.001 respectively). It was observed that the differences between the genders in terms of CV/TIV disappeared (p = 0.679). The total vermis area was 11.59 ± 1.3 cm2 in males and 10.85 ± 1.3 cm2 in females. V1 area, V3 area, and the total vermis area were found statistically higher in males (p = 0.05, p = 0.006, p = 0.007 respectively). It was determined that the area fraction of V2 was higher in females when the fractions of V1, V2, and V3 to the total vermis area were examined (p = 0.03). CONCLUSION: We believe that the normal values of CV, TIV, and vermian subregion areas, determined by stereological method, will contribute to the diagnosis and the treatment plan of the clinical pathological evaluations in adults and children.

The radiological evaluation of the nasal cavity, conchae and nasal septum volumes by stereological method: A retrospective cone-beam computed tomography study.

BACKGROUND: The nasal cavity (NC) is the entrance to the respiratory system. Many studies have been conducted on the structure, function and volume of the NC. Only a few studies were performed assessing the volumetric values of NC and conchae. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to evaluate the volumetric measurements of the NC, conchae and nasal septum using the stereological method. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) images of 200 individuals (100 females and 100 males) aged 8-59 years were retrospectively evaluated. Inferior nasal concha and middle nasal concha, NC and nasal septum volumes were measured on these images. Measurements were made using point counting method, which is based on the Cavalieri principle. The mean values of the measured structures for 2 age groups and for each gender were obtained. Differences between the groups and genders of all parameters were examined. The volume fractions of measured volumes were calculated. RESULTS: The mean volumes of the nasal septum, left and right NC, left and right inferior nasal conchae, and left and right middle nasal conchae were 4.99 ±1.51 cm³, 7.44 ±2.93 cm³, 7.68 ±2.99 cm³, 3.10 ±1.11 cm³, 3.04 ±1.02 cm³, 1.32 ±0.56 cm³, and 1.28 ±0.49 cm³, respectively. Gender and age differences were statistically significant in all volumes (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The data obtained in this study may assist clinicians in planning treatment, assessing the treatment results of pathological conditions within the NC, and help surgeons in preoperational and postoperational evaluations, especially in dentistry, otorhinolaryngology and plastic surgery.