Background: Adult spinal deformities (ASD), including kyphosis, lordosis, and scoliosis, are major contributors to global disability, yet their prevalence and risk factors remain understudied in the Iranian population. This study aimed to assess the burden and determinants of ASD in the PERSIAN Guilan Cohort Study (PGCS) population. Methods: A cross-sectional analysis was conducted within PGCS, including 10,520 participants aged 35–70 years. Spinal deformities were assessed via physical examination by trained health workers. Logistic regression models evaluated associations between ASD and demographic, clinical, and lifestyle factors. Results: The prevalence of ASD was 6.4%, with lordosis (96%) being the most common deformity. Women had significantly higher odds of ASD than men (adjusted OR: 1.90, 95% CI: 1.49–2.48). Rural residence (OR: 0.58, 95% CI: 0.49–0.68) and older age (≥65 years; OR: 0.59, 95% CI: 0.42–0.82) were inversely associated with ASD. Obesity (body mass index (BMI) >30 kg/m²) was a strong risk factor (OR: 1.86, 95% CI: 1.46–2.37). Pre-diabetes (OR: 1.26, 95% CI: 1.00–1.60) and moderate physical activity (OR: 1.28, 95% CI: 1.04–1.58) also showed significant associations. Conclusion: Epidemiological findings from the PGCS indicate a higher prevalence of ASD among women and individuals with obesity, along with significant variation between urban and rural residents. These findings highlight the need for targeted preventive measures and further research to inform effective interventions.
Background: Eggshell membrane (ESM) contains bioactive substances beneficial for nerve regeneration. Botulinum neurotoxins (BoNTs) are significantly effective in treating medical conditions, including spastic movement disorders, and at low concentrations, they can enhance nerve regeneration. Objectives: The present study aimed to investigate the effect of BoNT type A (BoNT/A) the ESM canal on peripheral nerve repair. Materials & Methods: In the present study, 32 male rats were randomly assigned to 4 groups: sham surgery, autograft, ESM+9% normal saline, and ESM+BoNT/A. Then, 1 cm of the sciatic nerve was excised, and the gap was bridged using an eggshell canal filled with either normal saline or BoNT/A. Nerve repair was assessed using the sciatic function index (SFI). Then, muscle and nerve samples were prepared and evaluated histologically, biochemically, and immunohistologically on days 30 and 90 after surgery. Results: At 49 and 60 days post-surgery, the SFI scores in the ESM+BoNT/A group were significantly higher than those in the autograft group (P<0.05). Ninety days after surgery, the average diameters of muscle fibers in the ESM+BoNT/A group increased significantly compared to the autograft group (P<0.001). In addition, 90 days after surgery, the number of myelinated nerve fibers in the ESM+BoNT/A group was greater than in both the autograft and NS groups (P<0.05). Conclusion: The findings of this study suggest that incorporating BoNT/A as a filler within an ESM canal confers beneficial effects on axonal growth and sciatic nerve repair.
Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted populations worldwide, particularly vulnerable groups, like individuals with autoimmune diseases, such as multiple sclerosis (MS). This study examined the effects of COVID-19 on MS patients compared to healthy controls, focusing on symptom severity and hospitalization rates. Objectives: Evaluating the severity of COVID-19 among MS patients in comparison to a healthy control group. Materials & Methods: This case-control study was conducted on 1,203 MS cases from the nationwide MS registry of Iran and 500 healthy controls. Data, including demographics, MS history, treatment details, COVID-19 symptom severity, and hospitalization records, were collected from various healthcare facilities across Iran. Results: The study revealed no significant difference in hospitalization rates between MS patients (11.6%) and healthy controls (P=0.877). MS patients were more likely to experience mild COVID-19 symptoms compared to controls, while moderate and severe symptoms were less frequent (P<0.001). Gender did not significantly affect symptom severity within the MS group (P=0.505), but significant differences were noted in the control group, with males more likely to experience severe symptoms (P=0.021). Symptom severity varied significantly across different MS types (P=0.0034), with relapsingremitting MS patients predominantly experiencing milder symptoms. Higher Expanded Disability Status Scale scores (4.5 and higher) correlated with more severe COVID-19 symptoms (P<0.00001), emphasizing the need for monitoring disabled MS patients. Conclusion: The findings suggest that MS does not significantly increase the risk of severe COVID-19 outcomes compared to the general population. MS-specific factors, including disease type and disability level, may influence COVID-19 severity. Targeted medical care based on individual health profiles is crucial, highlighting the intricate interplay between MS and infectious diseases, like COVID-19.
Background: Depression and anxiety are prevalent psychiatric disorders worldwide, often cooccurring and presenting therapeutic challenges. The limitations of conventional pharmacological treatments have intensified interest in plant-based therapies. Rubus hyrcanus Juz., an endemic species of the Hyrcanian forests, possesses phenolic and flavonoid compounds with antioxidant and antibacterial properties. Objectives: This research examined the antidepressant and anxiolytic effects of R. hyrcanus root methanolic extract (RHRME) in male mice. Materials & Methods: RHRME was prepared using the maceration method. RHRME (50, 100, and 200 mg/kg) was administered orally (p.o.) 60 minutes before behavioral assessments. Open field test (OFT) and elevated plus maze (EPM) were used to analyze locomotor activity and anxiolytic effects of the extract. The forced swimming test (FST) and tail suspension test (TST) were applied to evaluate antidepressant-like activity. Results: RHRME at 200 mg/kg significantly elevated central zone time in the OFT (P<0.05), without affecting locomotor activity. Also, treatments at 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg substantially elevated open arm entries (P<0.01, P<0.05, and P<0.001, respectively) compared to the control group. Time spent in the open arms was also significantly increased at 200 mg/kg (P<0.05). In the FST, RHRME at 100 and 200 mg/kg significantly elevated latency to immobility (P<0.001) and reduced immobility duration at 200 mg/kg (P<0.05). No remarkable effects were observed in the TST. Conclusion: Our findings suggest acute anxiolytic- and antidepressant-like effects of RHRME in mice and provide preliminary evidence supporting RHRME as a candidate for further mechanistic and chronic investigations.
Introduction: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease-causing CNS demyelination. There may be a correlation between MS and cancer because of the immunological basis of cancer and MS and also the MS treatment’s role. Purpose: The aim of this research was to determine the prevalence of cancer among MS patients in Guilan province. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in 2021 on 611 MS patients registered in nationwide MS registry of Iran (NMSRI), Guilan. Collected data included age, treatment types, duration of drug use, Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS), age at diagnosis, presence of cancer, time interval between MS and cancer diagnosis, comorbidities and medications prescribed for immune related disease. Results: 1.0% (n=6) of MS patients had a cancer diagnosis, mainly after MS diagnosis. The uterine cancer (33.3%, n=2), lymphoma (16.67%, n=1), breast cancer (50%, n=4) were identified. Adenoid cystic carcinoma of the salivary gland (n=1) and lung cancer (n=1) were also diagnosed in one patient with uterine cancer. The average age of cancer patients was greater (47.2±12.6 vs. 37.7±9.9, P<0.001), and no significant correlation was found between sex and cancer (P=0.671). There was no significant correlation between the types of MS treatment, duration of taking medication, MS severity, age at MS diagnosis, and cancer (P>0.05). Cancer was more common in those with underlying diseases (P<0.001), but not in patients with autoimmune disease (P>0.05). Conclusion: The cancer is relatively high prevalent among MS patients compared with general population in Guialn province. And its prevalence was only associated with underlying diseases.
Background: Cerebral vasospasm following aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) remains a significant contributor to morbidity and mortality, and its optimal management is still uncertain. Removing blood from the subarachnoid space may help prevent vasospasm, and lumbar cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) drainage offers a potentially safer option than cisternal drains or intrathecal thrombolysis. Objectives: This study compared lumbar drainage (LD) to standard care in aneurysmal SAH patients. The primary outcome is symptomatic vasospasm, with secondary outcomes including mortality, vasospasm detected via transcranial Doppler, the radiological effect of vasospasm, and shunt procedures for hydrocephalus Materials & Methods: A thorough search was performed across PubMed, Cochrane, and ScienceDirect in May 2024, following the PRISMA guidelines. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing LD and standard care during the vasospasm risk period after endovascular coiling or surgical clipping were included. A meta-analysis was performed using RevMan, with odds ratios (OR) calculated for each outcome. Risk of bias was analyzed utilizing the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool 2.0 (RoB 2.0). Results: Four RCTs involving 664 patients (326 in the LD group and 338 in the control group) were analyzed. LD significantly decreased the incidence of symptomatic vasospasm, indicated by deterioration in neurological function (OR=0.39, 95% CI, 0.20%, 0.77%, P=0.007). However, no significant difference was observed compared to standard care in other outcomes, such as mortality, transcranial Doppler effect of vasospasm, the radiological effect of vasospasm, or shunt procedures for hydrocephalus. Conclusion: Lumbar CSF drainage following endovascular coiling or surgical clipping is beneficial in reducing the risk of symptomatic vasospasm in patients with aneurysmal SAH.
Background: Vitamin D deficiency has been suggested as a potential risk factor for depression; however, previous studies have reported inconsistent findings regarding this association. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the association between serum vitamin D levels and depression among adults participating in the Prospective Epidemiological Research Studies in Iran (PERSIAN) Guilan Cohort Study (PGCS). Materials & Methods: This cross-sectional analysis included 10,520 individuals aged over 35 years from the PGCS. Information on sociodemographic characteristics, serum vitamin D levels, and the presence and severity of depression was collected. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were applied to assess the association between vitamin D status and depression, with results reported as odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Analyses were performed using SPSS software, version 16, with statistical significance defined as P<0.05. Results: The prevalence of vitamin D deficiency and depression was 22.8% and 5.1%, respectively. The prevalence of depression among participants with vitamin D deficiency, insufficiency, and sufficiency was 4.9, 4.7, and 5.4%, respectively (P=0.328). Based on logistic regression analysis, vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency were not associated with depression after adjustment for age, gender, marital status, education, place of residency, occupation, wealth score index (WSI), body mass index, physical activity, smoking, hookah, opium, alcohol consumption, and consumption of vitamin D supplements (OR=0.87, 95% CI, 0.69%, 1.10% and OR=0.86, 95% CI, 0.69%, 1.07%, respectively). Moreover, analyses performed separately according to vitamin D supplement use revealed a similar pattern for both participants who consumed vitamin D supplements and those who did not (P>0.05). Conclusion: The findings of this large population-based study suggest that serum vitamin D levels are not independently associated with depression in adults. These results emphasize the importance of considering demographic and lifestyle factors when evaluating depression risk.
Background: Epilepsy, as a chronic disorder, significantly impacts individuals’ daily functioning. It is essential to have a valid tool available for assessing the personal effects of epilepsy. Objectives: This study aimed at translating and standardizing the personal impact of epilepsy scale (PIES). Materials & Methods: This study was conducted among patients with epilepsy who were referred to the neurology clinics of Guilan University of Medical Sciences. To assess face and content validity, six neurologists were consulted. The depression anxiety stress scale (DASS) was used to evaluate depression, anxiety, and stress, and the SF-36 short form was used to evaluate health status. Kappa coefficient of agreement, Spearman’s correlation coefficient, and confirmatory factor analysis were performed for psychometric assessment. Results: Fifty-five percent of patients were male and 45% were female, and 59% were older than 39 years old. According to Pearson’s correlation coefficient results, the PIES demonstrated convergent validity with the depression, anxiety, and stress scale, and divergent validity with the health background questionnaire. All items scored greater than the values indicated Lawshe’s table and were reported as necessary by experts. Confirmatory factor analysis results showed that the PIES has a three-factor structure with a good fit. Conclusion: The results showed that the Persian version of the PIES has acceptable validity and is a reliable and valid tool for evaluating the personal effects of epilepsy on patients.
Background: Anise (Pimpinella anisum L.), a broadly used aromatic plant in Persian medicine (PM), has been historically used for the treatment of neurological and psychological disorders. Objectives: This systematic scoping review aimed to provide an extensive overview of anise’s traditional applications and phytochemistry and pharmacological effects, focusing on neurological and psychological fields. Materials & Methods: This review was conducted in three stages. First, a search for relevant titles in authentic PM resources was conducted. Second, a systematic search was conducted in the Scopus, Web of Science, and PubMed databases, and related articles were extracted. Our inclusion criteria were in vivo, in vitro, and clinical studies examining the effects of anise on neurological or psychiatric disorders published in English. Third, the information obtained from PM books and recent studies was categorized and summarized. Results: Phytochemical analyses demonstrate that anise primarily consists of trans-anethole, alongside various phenolic compounds. The current review indicated that P. anisum exhibits diverse neurological and psychological activities, including anti-seizure, anti-spasmodic, antidepressant, neuroprotection, anxiolytic, and nerve-enhancing effects. In PM, anise is believed to be beneficial for various neurological and psychological disorders, including paralysis, asymmetric facial palsy, flaccidity, epilepsy, coldinduced headaches, migraines, vertigo, dizziness, phlegmatic meningoencephalitis, phlegmatic hypersomnia, hypersomnia caused by external cold or narcotic drugs (such as opium), melancholia (particularly when associated with the peritoneum), and sleep paralysis. Conclusion: This review demonstrates anise’s role as a herbal intervention with the potential to improve neurological and psychological outcomes. Although its efficacy is not yet fully proven, further clinical trials and meta-analyses are necessary to fully evaluate its safety, efficacy, and therapeutic applications.
Background: Patients with central nervous system (CNS) injuries in intensive care units (ICUs) often face reduced self-efficacy, which negatively affects rehabilitation. Despite the potential benefits of educational interventions, evidence on their effectiveness in improving self-efficacy in this group is limited. Objectives: This study evaluated the impact of structured education on self-efficacy among ICU patients with CNS injuries Materials & Methods: This experimental study was conducted in 2025 at a teaching hospital in Lahore, Pakistan, involving 60 patients with CNS injuries admitted to the ICU. Participants were randomly assigned to the intervention group and the control group. The intervention group received self-efficacy training, while the control group did not. Data were collected using the Scherer’s self-efficacy questionnaire. Statistical analyses, including descriptive and inferential methods, were performed using SPSS software, version 26. Results: The difference in the mean self-efficacy between the two groups, intervention and control, was not statistically significant (P>0.005) before the intervention. However, after the intervention, the difference in the mean self-efficacy was statistically significant (P<0.001). Conclusion: Considering that self-efficacy in patients with CNS injuries is a crucial component of their treatment and care, it is recommended that targeted educational programs be implemented to enhance and develop this important factor.
Background: With the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) in medicine, the readiness of students to use this technology significantly impacts their acceptance and effective use of AI. Objectives: This study investigated the preparedness level of medical students of Guilan University of Medical Sciences (GUMS) for applying AI in medical practice. Materials & Methods: This study was conducted in 2024 on medical students at GUMS. The Persian version of the standard medical artificial intelligence readiness scale for medical students (MAIRS-MS) was used as the data collection tool, which assessed the readiness of students in four domains: Cognitive, ability, attitude, and ethics. Descriptive statistics, t-tests, and Spearman correlation coefficients were used for data analysis. Results: The average score of total readiness to use for AI was 51.66 out of 110, indicating an average level of readiness. The cognitive and ethics domains had the lowest and highest scores, respectively. The readiness score was related to the educational level, with the physiopathology course having the highest score. Moreover, men obtained higher scores overall and in the ability and attitude domains (P<0.001). Cognitive scores increased with age (P=0.037), but younger students scored higher in the ethics domain (P=0.009). Conclusion: The readiness of GUMS medical students to use AI was in the medium range, and significant differences were observed based on academic level, gender, and age. It is essential to design structured training courses to improve the abilities of students for the effective use of AI in medical practice.
Background: Neurodegenerative illnesses, including Alzheimer’s disease (AD), Parkinson’s disease (PD), and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), are marked by progressive neuronal degeneration and presently lack adequate diagnostic and prognostic instruments. Objectives: This review analyzed recent developments in proteomic methodologies and their uses in the identification and validation of biomarkers for AD, PD, and ALS. It offers a comparative proteome analysis of several significant neurodegenerative illnesses, highlighting both common and unique molecular markers. The review identified translational obstacles from biomarker discovery to clinical use, providing information that can improve comprehension of disease mechanisms and inform the creation of viable therapeutic options. Materials & Methods: A thorough literature analysis was performed on proteomic studies concerning cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), blood, urine, and brain tissue in patients with AD, PD, and ALS. The review examined papers from January 2020 to June 2025 across prominent databases utilizing specified proteomic terminology. The inclusion criteria mandated that studies concentrate on human or validated animal proteomic analysis of disease-specific biomarkers. The literature underwent qualitative analysis to discern prevalent biomarkers, developing molecular networks, and trends among the three disorders, highlighting translational significance and methodological advancements. Results: Comparative proteomic investigations demonstrated both shared and unique molecular pathways across AD, PD, and ALS, including synaptic degradation, mitochondrial dysfunction, and neuroinflammation. The amalgamation of proteomic data with genomic, systems biology, and transcriptomic, methodologies is expediting the identification of therapeutically pertinent biomarker panels. Innovative methods, like single-cell proteomics and artificial intelligence-based analysis are improving sensitivity and specificity in biomarker detection. Conclusion: The proteomic biomarkers offer considerable potential for early diagnosis, disease classification, and tailored therapy approaches in neurodegenerative disorders. Addressing existing translational obstacles will be essential for the effective application of precision medicine in neurodegeneration.
Background: Biallelic mutations in GJB2 are responsible for over half of all autosomal recessive non-syndromic hearing loss (ARNSHL) cases, establishing it as the most critical locus for this disorder globally. Among its many variants, 35delG is one of the most frequently reported. Objectives: The current study aimed to investigate the prevalence of 35delG and other mutations associated with non-syndromic hearing loss among northern Iranian populations. Materials & Methods: This study included 313 individuals with non-syndromic hearing loss (age range: 2–84 years; 55.6% female, 44.4% male). Genotyping for the 35delG variant was performed using allele-specific PCR (ARMS). Samples homozygous for 35delG were identified for subsequent analysis, while all other samples underwent bidirectional Sanger sequencing of the entire GJB2 gene. All statistical analyses were conducted using SPSS software, version 25. Results: Genetic analysis revealed that 42 individuals (13.4%) were homozygous for the 35delG mutation. An additional 38 subjects (12.14%) were heterozygous for this variant. Other pathogenic mutations were identified in 24 individuals, comprising 4 homozygotes (1.28%) and 20 heterozygotes (6.40%). The specific homozygous mutations other than 35delG were NM_004004.6:c.1+1G>A, NM_004004.6:c.427C>T (p.Arg143Trp), and NM_004004.6:c.290_291insA. Furthermore, 17 individuals (5.43%) were compound heterozygotes. The overall allele frequency for the 35delG variant in the studied population was 21.57%. Conclusion: This study confirms the high frequency of the 35delG mutation in the GJB2 gene among northern Iranians over a 7-year period. A consanguineous background was present in half of the 35delG carriers, a notable association that likely explains the high prevalence of this mutation in the studied population.
Background: Acute ischemic stroke (AIS) is related to higher disability. Post-stroke depression (PSD) and post-stroke cognitive impairment (PSCI) are the two conditions, which significantly impact patient recovery and quality of life (QoL). Fibrinogen, an acute-phase protein, is elevated during AIS, and has been implicated in various neurological disorders. Objectives: We assessed the association between higher fibrinogen levels and the risk of PSD and PSCI in AIS patients. Materials & Methods: We conducted a meta-analysis of studies published up to June 2025 across three databases, including PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Web of Science. Eligible studies assessed the association between fibrinogen and PSD and PSCI among AIS patients. Results: Our study included nine observational studies conducted in China, with a total sample size of 3.328 patients. The meta-analysis consistently demonstrated a significant positive association between elevated fibrinogen levels and an increased risk of both PSD and PSCI. For PSD, the adjusted odds ratio (aOR) across five studies was 1.43 (95% CI, 1.3%, 1.5%; P<0.00001). For PSCI, aOR from three studies was 1.59 (95% CI, 1.19%, 2.11%; P=0.002). These associations largely persisted after adjustment for various confounding factors. All included studies were conducted in China and predominantly involved male patients. Conclusion: Elevated fibrinogen on admission was statistically positively correlated with an increased risk of PSD and PSCI incidence. Fibrinogen is a valuable prognostic biomarker for early stratification of patients with a high risk of developing neuropsychiatric complications after AIS.
Background: Non-traumatic subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) is a severe cerebrovascular emergency with a high early mortality rate due to risks of neurological deterioration, rebleeding, and elevated intracranial pressure. Prognosis largely depends on hemorrhage severity and level of consciousness at presentation. Identifying predictors of early mortality is crucial for timely intervention. Objectives: This study evaluated the clinical and demographic predictors of 24-hour and in-hospital mortality in patients with non-traumatic SAH and identify high-risk profiles. Materials & Methods: A retrospective study of 174 adults diagnosed with non-traumatic SAH between March 2020 and February 2024 was conducted. Data on demographics, comorbidities, presenting symptoms, imaging findings, and neurological scores (Glasgow coma scale [GCS], Hunt–Hess grade, modified Rankin scale [MRS]) were collected. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses identified independent predictors of 24-hour and in-hospital mortality. Results: Early (24-hour) mortality occurred in 3.4% of patients, and overall, in-hospital mortality was 35.6%. Higher SAH grades and lower GCS scores were strongly associated with mortality. Each additional GCS point reduced the odds of 24-hour death by 43% (OR=0.57, P<0.001), while higher SAH grade increased the risk of mortality. Age was inversely correlated with early mortality but increased overall in-hospital mortality risk. Hypertension independently raised the odds of in-hospital death (OR=3.3, P=0.021). Other comorbidities and demographics were not significant predictors after adjustment. Conclusion: GCS and SAH grade at admission are the strongest predictors of early mortality in non-traumatic SAH. Comorbidities play a secondary role. Early identification of high-risk patients and prompt targeted management may reduce preventable deaths, particularly in resource-limited settings.
Background: Patients with gastrointestinal (GI) cancers often experience psychological distress that impacts adjustment and quality of life (QoL). This study evaluated the effectiveness of a brief psychoeducational intervention in improving psychological outcomes in newly diagnosed GI cancer patients. Materials & Methods: In this randomized clinical trial, 84 eligible patients out of 113 patients in a city in north of Iran in 2021 were assigned to either an intervention group (n=42) or a control group (n=42). The intervention group received four 45-minute psychoeducational sessions led by a psychiatry resident and a psychologist. The control group received standard care and was wait listed for the intervention. Psychological adjustment, anxiety and depression, and QoL were assessed before and after the intervention using the Persian versions of the mini-mental adjustment to cancer (Mini-MAC) scale, hospital anxiety and depression scale (HADS), and EORTC QLQ-C30, respectively. We used independent t-test, Mann–Whitney U test, chi-square /Fisher’s exact tests, and generalized estimating equation model to analyze the data using SPSS software, version 22. Results: Sixty-eight participants completed the study. The intervention group showed significant improvements across all Mini-MAC subscales and reductions in anxiety (r=0.94, P<0.001) and depression (r=0.92, P<0.001). QoL scores improved significantly in several domains, including global health (r=0.92, P<0.001) and emotional functioning (r=0.94, P<0.0001). Conclusion: The intervention enhanced psychological adjustment and well-being in GI cancer patients. Integrating brief psychoeducational support into oncology care may benefit patients, particularly in low-resource settings.
Background: Modern consumer behavior is increasingly challenging the effectiveness of traditional advertising, with endorsements becoming a key means of standing out in competitive markets. However, it remains unclear how sports endorsements differently affect frontal gamma and theta brain waves in athletes versus non-athletes across various sports and non-sports products, as well as their potential to predict purchase intentions. Materials & Methods: This quasi-experimental study with a pre- and post-test design assessed 60 participants (30 athletes and 30 non-athletes) who viewed matched 1-minute ads for sports (SIXPAD) and non-sports (Coca-Cola) products, with/without Ronaldo’s endorsement. Frontal EEG (16-channel, 4-8 Hz theta, 30-40 Hz gamma) was analyzed via nonparametric ANCOVA (controlling for baseline) and multiple regression. Results: No group × advertisement interaction emerged; however, main effects of advertisement type revealed unprecedented differences in frontal gamma (F3, 232=4.56, P=0.004, ηp²=0.056) and theta power (F3, 232=3.45, P=0.017, ηp²=0.043). Pairwise comparisons revealed the highest gamma in sports ads without an endorser compared to non-sports ads without an endorser (mean difference=1.68; 95% CI, 0.57%, 2.79%; P=0.003) or with an endorser (mean difference =1.34; 95% CI, 0.23%, 2.45%; P=0.018). Theta peaked in sports with an endorser versus sports without an endorser (mean difference =2.34; 95% CI, 1.12%, 3.56%; P<0.001) or non-sports ads with an endorser (mean difference =1.56; 95% CI, 0.34%, 2.78%; P=0.012). Regression analysis revealed that gamma changes were positive predictors of purchase intent (β=0.18, t=3.00, P=0.003; model R²=0.119, P<0.001). Conclusion: These findings establish endorser-product congruence as a modulator of high-frequency neural integration and memory encoding, thereby paving the way for neuromarketing tools that enhance the efficacy of sports campaigns and consumer loyalty.
Background: Spinal epidural arachnoid cysts (SEACs) are rare, accounting for ~1% of all spinal tumors. While often incidental, large cysts may compress nerve roots or the spinal cord, leading to motor or sensory deficits. The etiology and pathophysiology of these conditions remain unclear, and no standardized management guidelines exist. Surgical treatment is indicated for symptomatic cases, with dural defect repair essential to prevent recurrence. Case Description: A 25-year-old female presented with paraparesis and intermittent leg pain of one month’s duration. Thoracolumbar magnetic resonance imaging revealed a cystic lesion extending from T11 to L1 with T2 hyperintensity similar to cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). She underwent hemilaminectomy with complete cyst resection and dural defect repair. Postoperatively, the patient demonstrated progressive neurological recovery without complications. Conclusion: SEACs are rare lesions that may cause significant neurological symptoms if untreated. For symptomatic cases, complete cyst excision with dural repair is the preferred management to prevent recurrence and achieve favorable outcomes.
Background: Vestibular neuritis is a condition characterized by inflammation of the vestibular nerve, leading to vertigo, imbalance, and other related symptoms. This condition is commonly seen in younger adults, and its presentation in individuals in their 40s is rare. Case Presentation: This case study highlights the diagnostic journey and clinical management of vestibular neuritis of a 43-year-old female patient who presented with an acute onset of vertigo, nausea, and imbalance. She also presented with a left-sided headache radiating to the right clavicle, dizziness, and sudden palpitations. The presentation lacked a preceding respiratory infection, and the patient had a history of similar episodes without palpitations. The patient’s medical history, clinical management, and imaging results were carefully reviewed, ultimately leading to the diagnosis of vestibular neuritis. Conclusion: This case study discussed the differential diagnosis, the challenges in distinguishing it from other vestibular disorders, and the therapeutic interventions that led to the patient’s recovery. This case certainly contributes to the valuable insight into the atypical presentation of vestibular neuritis in middle-aged women, emphasizing the importance of early diagnosis and appropriate management for optimal outcome.
Background: Coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) is a lifesaving surgery; however, it can be accompanied by potential adverse events, such as post-operative delirium (POD). Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of quetiapine on POD in patients undergoing CABG. Materials & Methods: This randomized clinical trial was carried out from December 2023 to November 2024 in an academic center affiliated with the Guilan University of Medical Sciences (GUMS). Eligible patients were equally divided into two groups of quetiapine and control. POD was assessed using the confusion assessment method (CAM) in the intensive care unit (ICU) every 12 hours for two days postoperatively. Results: Data from 82 CABG patients were analyzed. No significant difference was found between the two quetiapine and control groups regarding patients’ demographic data and surgery characteristics (P>0.05). Two cases in the quetiapine group (4.87%) and four patients in the control group (9.75%) developed POD, with no significant difference (P=0.675). Comparing the onset time of delirium in the quetiapine (9.5±0.7) and control (8.5±0.57) groups, no significant difference was observed (P=0.135). There was no association between patients’ co-morbidities (P=0.675), American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) class (P=0.154), age (P=0.648), body mass index (BMI) (P=0.468), and the occurrence of POD. None of our cases showed serious adverse effects. Conclusion: Quetiapine can be used safely in CABG patients with promising results, despite the lack of statistical difference. In this regard, well-planned trials with sufficient sample sizes and higher dosages are encouraged to achieve practical results.
